Avery Magazine Autumn 2016

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CHANGING THE FACE of MOTHERHOOD

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EDUCATION

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› Choosing the right school › Creativity in education › High school survival › The Kitchen Garden Classroom

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contents

22

AUTUMN 2016

lifestyle

parenting

7. Roses and Gold Moodboard Unabashedly feminine, there are few colour combinations more beautiful than the delicate hues of rose and gold. Put your wish list together for Mother's Day!

14. Daddy's Little Girl Our new columnist, Alex Laguna, ponders what impact his relationship with his tween daughter will have on her future.

9. Dressed up Denim Denim does not have to mean boyfriend jeans or distressed booty shorts. Skip the skinny jeans and go for skirts, dresses, jumpsuits and tunics.

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10. Sweet Stationery While you might not want to fill your child's lunchbox with donuts, you can still sweeten their pencil cases with these deliciously fun stationery items. 12. Hers Want the energy and enthusiasm of summer to stay with you through the upcoming cooler months? Emma Grey shows you how.

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education feature

16. Benefits of Band Could the arts possibly win out over sport when it comes to teaching kids life skills? Jo Bainbridge thinks so. 18. Mirror Mirror Body image is not just an issue for the girls. Our new columnist, Troy Jones, shares his body image experience, 25 years on from his awkward teenage years.

cover story 22. Up and at 'Em Avery editor Sarah Hausler speaks to Australia’s current queen of comedy, Em Rusciano about motherhood, teenagers, and the surprising places life can take you.

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autumn 2016

“parenting is the hardest thing and the best thing you’ll ever do. It breaks your balls and it makes your heart burst all in five minutes.” Em Rusciano

26. Choosing a School With hundreds of schools in and around Adelaide, choosing a great school has become increasingly more complex. Education consultant, Rohan Feegrade, sheds some light on what to look for. 36. Creativity in Schools Classrooms have changed, and creativity now leads the charge in forward thinking educational settings, as psychologist Jodie Benveniste explains. 38. High School Survival Do you have a teenager who started high school this year? We asked our resident teen how to best support students making this transition. 40. A Food Philosophy that makes sense The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation program is extending, so children of pre-school age, as well as high school students, will also be able to experience the joys of growing and cooking their own seasonal food.

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44. On the road again Yes, it is possible to eat healthy while travelling, as our resident naturopath, Jess Donovan discovers. 46. Standing Desks We’re sure you’ve heard that ‘sitting is the new smoking’, but are standing desks the cure? We asked physiotherapist Patrick Carbone for his clinical opinion. 48. Discipline Dilemma At the end of your tether when it comes to disciplining your teen? Our resident counsellor, Emma Holdsworth, shares her top four strategies for proactive and effective discipline that won’t cause a rift between you and your teen. 50. From the practice You may think it’s too early, but according to the team at Health Sense Medical, we are now firmly in the midst of influenza season. We asked for their advice on how to protect your family from the dreaded flu.

REGULARS 20. The BIG Issue The contraceptive pill has transformed from a difficult to obtain form of family planning for married women, to a readily available remedy for all manner of female hormone related ailments. Now girls as young as 14 are able to obtain the pill without parental consent. But what impact is this having on our daughters? Is the pill the answer to all that ails them? And is it truly safe for them? Sarah Hausler investigates. 42. In the Kitchen Stephanie Alexander shares her favourite fresh mexican recipes. 52. Finance For many, visiting a financial planner seems like a daunting move. So we asked expert David Ragless to break down some of the common myths around seeking financial advice. 56. Mum’s the Word 58. Top 20

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Have you heard of Big Magic?

I

t’s a book written by author Elizabeth Gilbert of Eat, Pray, Love fame, and it’s all about fulfilling our creative potential. I read it cover to cover in one weekend recently and was constantly blown away by Ms Gilbert’s insights into the creative mind and her theory of inspiration as a tangible force in our universe. But it wasn’t until sitting down to write this column that I made the connection between reading this book whilst simultaneously pulling together this issue of Avery – which happens to have a strong theme of creativity running throughout. In a country steeped in the traditions of hard work and sporting prowess, creativity was once considered a frivolous pursuit. So it’s exciting to see how Australians of all ages are now starting to embrace the concept of creativity in a broad range of areas, including business, personal development, and of course, education. In this issue we are excited to welcome to the Avery team our new columnist, psychologist and parenting author Jodie Benveniste, who shares with us the importance of fostering creativity in the classroom, in order to broaden and strengthen young brains. We also hear from parenting columnist Jo Bainbridge, on how her sons’ immersion in the arts has more than made up for their reluctance to partake in the sporting arena. And of course there’s our covergirl, the inimitable Em Rusciano. I do have to confess to a bit of a #fangirl moment when I got to interview her. She’s a true inspiration for anyone looking to live an honest and creative life. She embraces her own creativity as opportunity and experience, without feeling the need to live up to anyone else’s expectations but her own. Finally, I’m sad to say that this will be my last issue as Editor of Avery Magazine. I’m so proud to have been a part of bringing this magazine to life – a creative process which started a full six months before our first issue hit the shelves. I’m stepping out of the editor’s role as my own business pursuits are demanding more and more of my time, and I want to make sure this wonderful publication has an editor who can provide it the commitment it deserves. I will remain on as a regular contributor, so you’ll still find me lurking within the pages of future Avery editions. But for now, it’s goodbye from me, as your editor. Remember, we still love your feedback, so please feel free to email the team at hello@averymagazine.com.au or find us on facebook to let us know your feedback. Happy reading!

Sarah Hausler, Editor

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autumn 2016

Published by Avery Magazine Editor Sarah Hausler Director Nicole Aspinall Director, Business Development Kelly McArdle

CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Alexander, Jodie Benveniste, Jo Bainbridge, Patrick Carbone, Jess Donovan, Jenni Eyles, Rophan Feegrade, Caroline Graydon, Emma Grey, Annie Harvey, Sarah Hausler, Emma Holdsworth, Troy Jones, Alex Laguna, David Ragless, Sarah Shanahan, Ruby Stewart, Julie Tilley

COVER PHOTO Stano Murin

PRINT Print Know How www.printknowhow.com.au

DISTRIBUTION Passing Out Distribution www.passingout.com.au Romeo's Foodland, IGA and SupaIGA www.romeosretailgroup.com.au

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Kelly McArdle Phone 0417 221 080 Email kelly@averymagazine.com.au

GENERAL ENQUIRIES Address PO Box 715 Prospect East SA 5082 Email hello@averymagazine.com.au Website www.averymagazine.com.au

COPYRIGHT All material appearing in Avery Magazine is copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material. No part of Avery Magazine will be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Avery Magazine takes all care to ensure information is correct at the time of printing, but the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy of any content, illustrations, photographs, advertisements or pricing. Views expressed are not neccessarily endorsed by the publisher or editor.


(life)style | moodboard 1

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celebrate life’s special moments

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autumn 2016

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contributors

WE’VE SCOURED THE STATE TO BRING TOGETHER OUR AMAZING TEAM OF EXPERTS.

emma grey

ALEX LAGUNA

Columnist A published author, speaker and trainer, Emma is the mother of two teenage girls and a three year old boy. She also has two step-children in their early twenties.

Columnist If he’s not trying to be a better father, and helping other men do the same, Alex is working in his film and television lighting company. www.betterdads.com

www.worklifebliss.com.au

jo bainbridge

emma holdsworth

Columnist A Gen X wife and mother of three teens. Jo loves chocolate, wine, 80s music and good company.

Family Counsellor A counsellor and parent educator, Emma is passionate about supporting families to transform their relationships.

www.sweet-child-of-mine.tumblr.com

www.treehousecounselling.com.au

SARAH SHANAHAN

SARAH HAUSLER

Stylist A professional organiser with a passion for interior design, Sarah is a mother of four teens who thrives on order and organisation.

Editor A journalist, Occupational Therapist and mum, Sarah combines clinical expertise and a love of writing to inspire, inform and support parents and families.

www.sarahshouse.com.au

www.sarahhausler.com.au

jessica donovan

TROY JONES

Naturopath A women’s holistic health expert, Jess’ down to earth approach helps empower women to take charge of their own and their family’s wellbeing.

Columnist Troy Jones is a best selling author, award winning film maker and father of Matilda and Charlie. His book, Being Dad, went best seller in 2014.

www.energeticmama.com

www.beingdad.com.au

annie harvey

ruby stewart

Education A teacher who believes all children can reach their full potential if they are supported in their learning.

Columnist At 13, Ruby has her sights set on a career in journalism. Her loves include netball, softball, piano, reading and One Direction.

www.kipmcgrath.com.au/holdfastbay

jenni eyles

maria keszler

www.stylingcurvy.com

www.herns.com.au

Columnist A mum of two teenage boys, proudly curvy, a lover of all things pretty and a cancer thriver.

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Finance Experienced accountant and partner at a community based, family focused accounting firm.


(life)style | her fashion

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dressed up

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denim

Fashion's most enduring staple, denim never really goes out of style. This Autumn, look beyond the skinny jeans and invest in a few key trans-seasonal pieces, such as a denim skirt or dress, to take you right through the cooler months.

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autumn 2016

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stationery sweet stationery

(life)style | tween style 2

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(life)style | tween style www.kikki-k.com

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(life)style | hers

BY EMMA GREY

Want the energy and enthusiasm of summer to stay with you through the upcoming cooler months? Emma Grey shows you how.

D

O YOU remember the summer holidays? That wonderful time when everything was in recess. No school. No committees. No ‘normal routine’. The days seemed longer and brighter. It was a time of catching up and switching off. Of unwinding. Pausing. Dreaming. Breathing… Summer is the perfect time to personally ‘re-group’. It’s a time of new beginnings. Maybe you set some goals for the year or maybe you chose a ‘theme’ for it. Maybe you didn’t do any of that, because it’s not your style. Whatever your approach to the beginning of the year though, there’s an element of excitement and positivity and ‘fresh start’. But now here we are in March and it might feel like summer has slipped through your fingers. And with it, that ability to bring a sense of effortless calm to your life, and a refreshed approach to your year. So before you start ducking your head into Autumn and charging into the rest of the year with a distinctly ‘wintery’ outlook, it’s worth a pause to reflect. What will the rest of 2016 bring? And, more importantly, what will each of us bring to it? Here are three simple questions to ponder as we let go of those summer months. You might like to write down the answers and keep your ideas somewhere prominent as a reminder.

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What will I start?

Where will the growth or change occur? What will be new? What will bring variety and interest and passion into my life? What was I putting off because of fear, or the perceived lack of time, or because I’d prioritised other people’s interests? What might happen if I begin?

What will I stop?

Which behaviours, choices, habits and activities dragged me down last year? Which weren’t good for me? Which weren’t good for the people around me? What can I let go of now? What must end? What will I stop doing?

What will I continue?

Some things have been going well. What are they? What’s working? What do I want to continue? Which aspects of my life do I wish to maintain?

it’s time to re-negotiate One of my friends, Canberra nutritionist Kate Freeman, incorporates a process of ‘re-negotiation’ into her life each year. She sits down with her husband and they re-negotiate the terms around everything they do, personally and as a couple and a family. The benefit of doing this is because what worked well last year might not fit now the kids are a year older and in different grades at school or undertaking different activities. It might not work any longer if you’re changing jobs or work hours or locations. When we sit down and re-negotiate how we’re running our lives, when we move the boundaries in or out, and shift the goal posts—even when we change the rules—we become more flexible. And flexibility is the key to getting through the barrage of things we can’t control. Life is unpredictable. We know that. But unpredictability doesn’t always have to equate to doom and gloom, along with the weather! So let's use those memories of summer to flex our reponses, flex our thoughts and flex the way we do things to give us the greatest chance of adapting to whatever life brings us, and thriving through our own endless summer.


(life)style | highlight

Enjoy the huge range of merchandise on sale by LEGO® traders, grab some refreshments at the Brick Café and take a pic at the FREE Instabooth photo booth. Book your tickets before they sell out at www.brickalaide.com.au

with BEAUTIFUL GIFTS for ARTY KIDS

You’ll love the range of craft packs available at blankcamvasgifts.com.au. There are so many beautiful hand-made fabric ‘canvases’ to choose from. All kits come with everything you need, including a variety of fabric paints or markers. Packs start at $15.

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Wander through the range of amazing exhibits, including the USS OGEL, a 4 metre long minifig scale ship based on WW2 Battle Cruisers. Also on display will be a huge collaborative build based on the original LEGO® Space themes from the 1970’s and 1980’s and one of the largest LEGO® city displays ever seen in SA, where you can view the streets and peer into the lives of LEGO® people who live there.

image SUNDAY COLLECTOR

unleash their creativity

LEGO® builders and enthusiasts from across Australia will share their love of LEGO through their amazing displays at South Australia's biggest LEGO fan event at the Adelaide Convention Centre this Easter Friday 25 and Saturday 26 March.

Avery magazine is delighted to offer readers a chance to win a Blank Canvas Gifts pack in shoe size 1. Email your entries to hello@averymagazine.com.au with the subject line “Blank Canvas” and include your name, address and phone number. Competition closes 31/5/16. Winners will be notified in June. Full terms and conditions at www.averymagazine.com.au

Younger people are continuing to delay starting drinking

The age at which 14–24-year-olds first tried alcohol has increased from 14.4 years in 1998 to 15.7 in 2013. www.druginfo.adf.org.au

Following its recent success in the UK beauty market, the revolutionary Dream Dots is set to be the latest skin care essential in Australia this year. Modelled on devices used in hospitals to treat severe burns and wounds, the innovative medical device acts as an absorbent overnight patch treatment, designed to calm and treat unwanted breakouts. It is 100% waterproof, breathable, bio-compatible and suitable for all skin types. Simply cleanse the affected area, secure the patch in place and wait for clear results. When Dream Dots come in contact with the blemish, it absorbs the spot fluid. A moist healing environment is formed beneath the patch, maintaining ideal pH balance, temperature and hydration levels. The patch swells and turns white overnight, resulting in a visible reduction in redness and inflammation when removed in the morning.

Elizabeth Gilbert, Big Magic

Dream Dots is available from national pharmacy retail outlets. RRP $19.99 per box of 24 patches. For more information and stockists, visit www.dreamdotsforspots.com

autumn 2016

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parenting | with alex laguna

Daddy’s

BY ALEX LAGUNA

Little Girl

What impact does a father’s relationship with his tween daughter have on her future? Our new columnist Alex Laguna ponders this most special of relationships.

A

S a father I ask big questions of myself, regularly. I’m not sure if that’s normal, but I do. I often wonder if what I’m doing is the right thing. Am I being too strict, too soft, overreacting because I’m tired or because there is something else going on in my life? I certainly question myself a lot more when it comes to my 11-year-old daughter. It’s interesting because I can’t see my relationship with her quite as clearly as the one I have with my 9-year-old son. But that’s because I can relate to him in a different way. We are males, I was a boy once. I get it. What I do have with my daughter is something very special. Like most fathers with daughters would tell you, you would do anything in the world, whatever it takes, to make things okay for them, to make them happy and to keep them safe. Being a man, I’d say without hesitation, I’d take a bullet for my daughter. I’d wrestle a shark or fight off an intruder. But that then leads me to ask the next big question. Would I do the toughest thing for a bloke and become vulnerable? Could I be really honest with myself about my flaws and my own personal issues? Would I take action to help myself? Because this is the greatest I’d take a bullet for my thing I can do for my daughter. daughter. I’d wrestle a shark In order to give her what she or fight off an intruder. really needs, I must aim to be the best bloke I can be, But… would I do the because that’s when I’m going toughest thing for a to be the best dad and more bloke and become importantly, the best role vulnerable? model.

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parenting | with alex laguna

What I’ve learned since starting BetterDads is that it’s not the heroic action of saving the day that will keep our daughters happy and safe. Rather, it’s the confidence we help them build in themselves. Giving them the ability to make the right decisions when the big decisions need to be made. There are many discussions and articles written about fathers dealing with tween or teen daughters, but for me, there is no formula. It is simply not possible to step into your daughter’s life at such an age and expect to play a major role. We must be actively engaging with our daughters from a young age and most of all we need to be present. Everything we do, our behaviour at home, how we treat their mums and how we treat them, has a huge impact on the human beings they will become and the values they will develop. Our daughters will search out the qualities and flaws in others that they see in us. The relationships they have will be massively influenced by the one they have with us. They say that daughters marry their fathers, and if that’s the case, when my daughter’s motorbike loving, tattoo wearing, bearded boyfriend knocks on the door, I’d better give the guy a chance. With this said, the only thing that is really in our control is our own actions. So maybe it’s time we all took a good look at ourselves, because our daughters deserve it.

TOP

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Avery Magazine's

TIPS FOR DADS OF DAUGHTERS

1.

LOVE HER MOTHER: Treat her with respect and don’t be afraid to express your love for her in front of your daughter.

2.

TELL HER SHE IS PRETTY AND SMART: Remind her often that you think she is beautiful inside and out. Teach her that her self-worth is not reliant on her physical appearance.

3.

SPEND TIME WITH HER: She needs your attention. Make sure she knows she is your number one priority.

4.

OPEN UP: Show her your sensitive side. It’s OK for her to see you cry and express your emotions. Be available to her.

5.

BE RESPECTFUL OF OTHERS: Be aware of how you speak to or refer to others, especially women. She will look to you to form her ideas on what to expect from men.

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22/01/2016 9:15 am


parenting | with jo bainbridge

Could the arts possibly win out over sport when it comes to teaching kids life skills? Jo Bainbridge thinks so.

O

K, BEING upfront here, I am not a big fan of sport. Never have been. But, as a parent, I understood the value of my kids participating in sport. So we explored all the football/ cricket/soccer/hockey/swimming options available. My kids, however, were just not into it. Maybe our bias influenced us to not push them when they said they weren’t interested? My justification was based on allowing their level of interest to guide us. My kids were into books, movies, music, story telling and humour, all very valid interests. But were we negligent by not pushing sport and the benefits that come with playing sport? The positives of sport participation are many and valid, I do not deny. But is sport the only way in which our teenagers can experience these important attributes? Not in my book, baby! Creative pursuits can offer so much, from both an individual and a social perspective. Let me share with you a few examples of how my eldest has garnered important attributes and life skills that may not

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immediately be associated outside the context of sport. Eldest is in a band. They formed when they were in years 10 and 11 and have been together for two years. Eldest was the last to join. The band required him to earn his position by auditioning and then had a probation period of sorts. It was important to the members that the fit was ‘right’. Reminder – they were 16 and 17 years old and did not have an adult coach to prompt this behaviour. I was impressed by their commitment to team authenticity. He had to show his commitment to the band and earn his place. Their music is predominately originals. This takes creativity, collaboration, trust and compromise on a personal and group level. Without the aid of an adult coach, this band has shown diplomacy, consultative attitude and negotiation skills by their own accord. Consider the courage it takes to put something you created and have worked so hard on, literally on stage for people to critique. Those are pretty awesome life skills being honed at that age, don’t you think?


parenting | with jo bainbridge

The commitment required by each member equates to lots of practice and the responsibility to ‘know your stuff’ before band practice. Then comes the dedication of fine-tuning things so that on ‘game day’ they are tight and rocking! At performances the band require organisation not only amongst themselves but also with the event promoter or venue manager, other bands in the line up and so forth. Loaning and sharing of equipment, cooperation and support with other bands are all on the agenda. Then to have the guts to get up on stage and play to people who may not even know who they are and yet give it their all, each and every gig. Strength of character much? So have I done Eldest a disservice by not pushing him to play sport as a teenager? Hell no, I do not believe so. Creative pursuits require a level of self-focus, exploration

Were we negligent by not pushing sport and the benefits that come with playing sport?

and understanding that is second to none. Appreciation and respect for others’ styles and pursuits has helped him develop social skills around acceptance and respect for the individual. The life skills these young adults have implemented in the band will take them far and I am very proud of them. As for those who are concerned about fitness and health – do you know how much stamina is required to be active on stage under lights for an hour or more whilst playing a 5kg guitar? Or to play a drum kit? Or to belt out song after song whilst on the go? Yep, I am a proud groupie mum. Where does that rate on the soccer mum scale? I’m not sure, but give me the night time gigs over early, cold, wet mornings any day!

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MIRRORRORRIM

BY TROY JONES

parenting | with troy jones

Body image is no longer just an issue for the girls. Increasingly in our modern day, boys are also being bombarded with highly edited, unrealistic images of bodily perfection. Our new columnist, Troy Jones, reflects on his own body image experience.

A

issues. Not in any way. In fact, I was no different from my couple of months ago, an old school mate mate who was popular and confident with the girls in a of mine put a picture of the two of us up on way I didn’t understand. Facebook. As a teenager, these apparent selfThe photo was some truths became so deeply entrenched in 25 years old, and took our little Our kids face a my mind that, a quarter of a century Facebook circle by storm. It was devastating barrage of later, when physical proof to the of us in our cricket gear, laughing imagery, sculpted by contrary was in front of me, it stopped at each other, happily wandering towards wherever we were going. surgeons and reinvented me in my tracks. I wasn’t fat. I wasn’t short. It was a grainy old scene, of an by photoshop The reality was obvious enough now. almost perfect late childhood, But at the time, that false perception of a long forgotten snap of a myself was so much stronger than the facts staring back competitively blissful Saturday morning in the early 1990s. from my 15 year old self’s bedroom mirror. It was an image of two stick-thin 15 year old kids. Body image is the name of the concept - essentially, But, looking at that picture, I knew what was in my head the image we have of our own physical state, and how it at the time. One of my little internal narratives: “I’m fat”. compares to others. While it has always been a problem, So, 25 years later, when this pic popped up on my laptop today in the era of Facebook, Instagram, smartphones, at work, I was absolutely stunned at one thing in the photo likes and comments, the truth is that it’s a lot more - I wasn’t fat at all. Nor short, which was one of my other

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HELP BOYS BUILD A POSITIVE BODY IMAGE 1.

MAKE HEALTH A HABIT: By fostering a healthy lifestyle yourself, you'll help him appreciate what his body can do.

2.

LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVE HEROES: Avoid TV shows, movies, and magazines that promote stereotypes and outdated gender roles.

3.

DO A REALITY CHECK: Point out that the sports celebrities he admires have experts helping them to work out, eat healthy, and, in some cases, surgically altering them. The same holds true for "hot" movie stars. One glance at the real men in their lives will drive home this point!

4.

STAY CONNECTED: Know what he's up to online. So called 'fitness forums' can promote risky training and unattainable body ideals and posting photos of himself can expose him to constant criticism.

5.

TALK ABOUT "REAL" GIRLS. Highly sexualised media can distort boys' understanding of girls, relationships, and what sex looks like. Talk about how porn represents an extreme and unrealistic perspective.

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autumn 2016


parenting | with troy jones

aggressive for our kids than it ever was for us. And it’s not just in our own little worlds. Modern life forces body image upon us. In my high school days, I’m not certain anyone had six-packs. Your favourite cricket player was likely to be a thick-waisted David Boon or Shane Warne (the 1990’s Shane Warne variety of course…), your football hero was a heavy set hard-nut like Tony Lockett, Peter Carey or Rick Davies. Superman was Christopher Reeve, James Bond was Pierce Brosnan and Batman was Michael Keaton. But now? Check out the guns on the new Superman, Bond and Batman. Look at the physical development in Hugh Jackman as Wolverine in subsequent movies over the years. Have a look at the fellas who grace the covers of men’s health magazines. No chest hair, perfect faces and bodies. For these blokes, six packs are fond memories and reminders of weakness, with their now lizard-like 12 packs the only way to go. In 2016, our kids face a devastating barrage of imagery, sculpted by surgeons and reinvented by photoshop. Perfection as portrayed by magazines, TV, movies, billboards and advertising is ridiculous. Or maybe we wish it was? Unfortunately, like the most insidious crimes, altered imagery is almost imperceptible. The art of creating perfection on paper, online or in lights is mastered, seamless, and all pervasive. And our kids see it all day, every day - then compare it to their own reality under fluorescent lights as they clean their teeth before bed. In a recent Australian study of more than 10,000 teenagers, body image was of greater concern than depression or bullying, family conflict, personal safety, suicide or drugs and alcohol. 61.7per cent of those surveyed were concerned about body image. 14.4 per cent were either very concerned or extremely concerned about it. With the Real Men Project, I travel the country working with schools, students and dads, and it never fails to surprise me how this impacts our teenagers. Unfortunately for parents, there is not much we can do to prevent our kids from being bombarded by warped, potentially upsetting imagery on a daily basis. There really are only two options for how to handle this:

Ignore it, assume it’s all OK, and that your kid can handle it or talk to them about it. A proper, honest, sit down discussion about how you see yourself and how they see themselves., what they know about body image and what they think of the imagery they see. Absolutely, it’s an awkward chat, but one that means so much if it is handled gently, honestly and collaboratively.

"

In a recent Australian study of more than 10,000 teenagers, body image was of greater concern than depression or bullying, family conflict, personal safety, suicide or drugs and alcohol.

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Maybe you’re a single dad. Maybe you’re happily married. Maybe you’re divorced. maybe you’re a father who is just too busy to stay in touch with your kids.

0401 356 584

Ph: email: emma@treehousecounselling.com.au

www.treehousecounselling.com.au

Find us on FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM

better

.com

Want help to TRANSFORM Relationships, Communication and Behaviour in your Family? Call today to book your FREE initial session to see how Tree House can help your family.

dads

A community for everyone who feels that things could be better if we all started sharing our experiences.

www.betterdads.com autumn 2016

19


the BIG issue | teens on the pill

Should our

BY SARAH HAUSLER

DaugHters

be on the Pill?

In the 55 years it has been available in Australia, the contraceptive pill has transformed from being a difficult to obtain form of family planning for married women, to a readily available remedy for all manner of female hormone related ailments. What has also changed is the ages of the women taking this medication, with girls as young as 14 able to obtain the pill without parental consent. But what impact is this having on our daughters? Is the pill the answer to all that ails them? And is it truly safe for them? Sarah Hausler investigates.

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t the time of its public release in 1961, Australia “My concern with the pill, and other hormonal was only the second country in the world to contraception in general, is that women are not being given allow the prescription of the pill – following its all the information about how it can affect their bodies introduction in the US the previous year. In those and so they are not making fully informed decisions,” Ms early years the availability of the pill heralded a revolution Macbeth says. “This is a disservice to women and can be a for women’s sexual and reproductive freedom, as well as for cause of anger and exacerbated health issues once they learn family planning. In its infancy, the pill was only available to more about how their body was affected. Many young girls married women, and hence was purely used for its intended might not feel they have any other option and that the pill is purpose – to prevent unwanted pregnancies. the only choice for them, when there are actually other good Today however, in 2016, the contraceptive pill is one of options that they may prefer if given the chance.” the most widely prescribed medications in Australia, and its While she agrees the pill can be the right choice for some scope is expanding with regard to who women, she is also concerned it is being is being prescribed this medication, and given too freely to teenagers without Society today doesn't for what reason. taking into account the effects on their educate girls to The pill is now regularly prescribed to young developing bodies. women of all ages – often as young as 14 “Teenage girls’ reproductive systems properly understand years of age, or younger with parental have not finished maturing, which can take and respect how their consent. And the pill is no longer just a five to ten years after their first period,” she tool for contraception, now commonly says. “By taking the pill they are stopping reproductive system prescribed to manage a wider range this development. When she stops the pill works and how it of issues such as acne and irregular, later in life her body will finish maturing, painful or heavy menstrual cycles. but it will take longer and there are other impacts their entire things to consider. For example, research body and lifestyle shows the regular cycling of hormones Particularly, is it safe for our teenage during the menstrual cycle has positive daughters, whose young bodies are still maturing and impacts on bone growth, heart health, and breast health, and developing? It’s a common question asked by many parents by stopping the natural hormone cycling by taking hormonal querying the use of the pill for their daughters. contraception, these teenage girls are not getting these good Sexual Health and Fertility Educator, Allison Macbeth, effects on their bodies in the crucial developing years.” says like any medication, the contraceptive pill can have both positive and negative impacts on a person’s health, and the most important consideration is to make sure parents Ms Macbeth is a strong advocate for the use of condoms and teens are fully informed about the full implications of as the preferred contraceptive for teenagers, due to their taking the pill. double benefit of preventing both pregnancy and the

But is it safe?

If not the pill, then what?

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the BIG issue | teens on the pill

Teenage girls’ reproductive systems have not finished maturing, which can take five to ten years after their first period

transmission of sexually transmitted infections. “When used properly condoms are up to 98 per cent effective at preventing pregnancy, and if there is a condom failure I believe that emergency contraception should be readily accessible for young women,” she says. “In terms of contraception, I think we give young girls the pill because we are scared of teenage pregnancies and don’t trust teenagers to be responsible with using condoms. Given the chance, I think many young people would responsibly use condoms and these are a great option and highly effective. “Another option could be the copper IUD, which can be left in for about five years. Of course the best contraception will be different for each person, which is why it’s so important they are able to make informed decisions about their choices.”

The impact goes deeper than side effects

There is currently research to suggest that short term side effects of the pill include weight gain, clearer skin, headaches, dizziness, breast tenderness, nausea, breakthrough bleeding, decreased libido and mood swings, while longer term impacts can include menstrual irregularities, absence of periods, fertility issues, and an increased chance of beast cancer and ovarian cancer. However, Chinese Medicine Practitioner and founder of the Girl to Woman Project, Sara Harris also has concerns about how the use of the pill affects teenage girls on a more fundamental level. She suggests that when the pill is prescribed as a first line option for contraception or treatment of another condition, it can lead young women to become disconnected from their menstrual cycle and therefore to an integral part of what makes them a woman. “Society today doesn't educate girls to properly understand and respect how their reproductive system works and how it impacts their entire body and lifestyle,” Ms Harris says. “A girl can grow up and through her entire life, not understand the true meaning of her menstrual cycle.” She fears our current generation of teenage girls are being prescribed the pill so frequently because people feel there are no other options to treat the range of hormonal

conditions being faced by young women. “I see rates of period pain, irregularities, poly-cystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, pre-menstrual tension and other menstrual issues consistently rising,” says Ms Harris. “Our periods and our fertility have become medicalised as if we need to fix something, as if we are inherently broken or inconvenienced. We are used to the 'quick fix' mentality and often feel at the mercy of such things as the pill, thinking that there is just no other option, when in fact there is more that we can do to support ourselves than we allow or that we are educated on. “There are extreme cases where girls do need a break from the severity of the symptoms they may be experiencing and the pill can be a way to provide this in the short term. However, a treatment plan can still be implemented, whilst looking at other areas of the body and lifestyle that may need attention and adjustments in order to bring the reproductive system back into balance.”

Is there an impact on long term fertility?

Among the most contentious of concerns surrounding this issue is the question of whether or not early or prolonged use of the pill will affect a teenager’s long term fertility. Ms Macbeth explains that while the pill may not cause infertility, it can certainly create a situation where a woman’s body may need several years after she stops the pill to get back to normal healthy cycles that allow her to be fertile. “Many women don’t know this,” says Ms Macbeth. “So when they’ve been on the pill for years and then stop when they want to have babies, they cannot become pregnant. This is only a temporary infertility, and if she gives her body time to recover normal cycles, and helps her body along with diet and lifestyle, she will likely be fertile again.”

It’s contraception. Not a cure.

Both Ms MacBeth and Ms Harris are working to spread the message that the pill is rarely an effective treatment for many of the hormonal related conditions for which it is prescribed. “The pill does not ‘cure’ any health issues,” says Ms MacBeth. “It’s only a band-aid and as soon as a woman stops the pill any health issues that were there before will come back. “Too often women are told that the pill will regulate their cycles or cure PCOS, but it doesn’t - it can actually make it worse and only hides the symptoms. To truly address health issues you need to look at the underlying issue, and address it from the root cause, which can be done successfully.”

autumn 2016

21


cover story | em rusciano

&

Up at 'EM BY SARAH HAUSLER

In a world where it is increasingly difficult to know who is real, who is fake and who is 100 per cent media managed, Em Rusciano stands in a class of her own. Accessible, open and refreshingly honest, Em represents an authenticity severely lacking in the entertainment industry. Avery editor Sarah Hausler spoke to Australia’s current queen of comedy about motherhood, teenagers, and the surprising places life can take you.

T

alented, brash, entertaining and entirely likeable, Em has become the poster girl for busy Australian Mums. Now living her dream of travelling the country telling stories and making people laugh from the stage, Em represents something so many of us crave in our own lives. The freedom to be 100 per cent ourselves. While it’s a freedom that doesn’t come without hard work and sacrifice, the chips are currently falling firmly in Em’s favour, her critically acclaimed sold out stand up show ‘Em Rusciano is Not a Diva’, a testament to that.

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.au www.emrusciano.com photography STANO MURIN

Besides sequins and a bit more glitter, there’s not a lot of difference between stage Em and real life Em At the risk of using a well worn reality television cliché, it’s been a long journey for Em Rusciano to get to this point. From a “surprise” pregnancy at age 21, a stint on Australian Idol, through a struggle with postnatal depression and a long term separation from her husband, Scott, which very nearly became a divorce, Em has successfully transitioned her personal challenges into material for her wildly successful shows. It is unsurprising so many of Em’s fans are mothers, when so much of her cabaret-style comedy is about the trials and tribulations of life as a woman, wife and mother. But while she is currently enjoying critical acclaim for her professional achievements, what really lights Em up is her role as a mother to her two daughters Marchella, 14 and Odette, eight. Though the recent onset of bickering between her tween and teen daughters is currently “breaking her balls”, for Em, parenting is now a much more positive experience than when her girls were young, an outcome which flies in the face of warnings she once received about the perils of parenting teenagers.

“I’m really proud of my relationship with my eldest daughter,” she says of her first born, Marchella. “Everyone kept warning me that it was going to be shit when she was about 14, but here we are now and she’s a gem.” “I mean, we have our moments she can be a dickhead and I can be a dickhead, but she’s pretty good at pointing that out and I’m pretty good at pointing that out, so I think we have a healthy understanding.” It’s a long way from those early, scary days of parenting, during which Em freely admits to having “no idea what I was doing”, a sentiment not unfamiliar to generations of mothers throughout history. “I didn’t know if I was scarring them, I didn’t know if I was doing the right thing. I’ve definitely grown in confidence as a parent as I’ve gotten older.” While she acknowledges her unplanned pregnancy with her eldest was “disastrous” at the time, what it gave her was the ability to begin her parenting journey with a clean slate, free from preconceived notions about how to parent, or what sort of a mother she should be.

“I was a kid when I had her, I really was, and we’ve kind of grown up together,” she says. “I try and parent remembering the kid in me, that’s probably the only rule I really have and everything else I make up as I go along.” This philosophy has been a cornerstone to building the open, honest relationships she now has with her children. “If you’re telling the truth, its just less things to remember,” she says. “It’s so hard to remember the lie you’ve made up.” It’s a level of honesty which is crucial for someone who lives her life so brightly in the spotlight. All that she shares with her fans, she also shares with her daughters, albeit through an age appropriate lens for youngest daughter Odette. “They handle it really well, but that’s how they know me,” she says of her girls’ response to having a public figure for a mother. “Besides sequins and a bit more glitter, there’s not a lot of difference between stage Em and real life Em, so they’ve grown up with me being like that.” For any performer who uses their private life as fodder for material

autumn 2016

23


Em ON...

Parenting “It’s the hardest thing and the best thing you’ll ever do. It breaks your balls and it makes your heart burst all in five minutes.” Her own parenting style “Loosely firm with occasional bouts of ‘mother military mode’”. Contentment "I’m always afraid if I ever admit to contentment, the universe will throw lightning at me. I’ve had some really awful curveballs hit when I’ve thought things were okay... so part of me is ever vigilant, hands up, in defence mode, ready for whatever gets sent at me. Teens and social media “You’ve got to teach them, you’ve got to arm them, you can’t monitor them, that’s just a losing battle. You have to teach them and trust that you’re doing a good job, so if they do come across porn, or whatever, they know how to handle it and what to do.” Protecting our children “I think we need to find a middle ground between wanting to put GPS trackers in their ears and sending your kids out for 10 hours at a time and saying come home when the street lights come on.” Pushing herself “I guess I have never felt good enough. I’ve always felt like I was really very hard on myself from a very early age. I was a perfectionist from very early on and I’ve always been trying to prove myself.” Feminism “I am proudly raising two feminists. All that means to us is that they get the same opportunities as men do. I’m raising strong kick-ass girls who won’t take shit from anyone and who will hopefully contribute to the world in a positive fashion. That’s all I want from them.”

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I have this fierce 200,000-odd strong army of amazing women who will just jump on top of anyone who has a go at me… they’re just incredible.

there’s an inherent risk to those personal relationships. Which is why, in contrast to how open she is about her own life on social media, Em is more cautious about how much of her daughters’ lives she shares. “Chella’s very vocal on whether or not I’m allowed to put things up (on social media),” she says. “My eight year old doesn’t mind, she loves it. But they’re very different girls, and Marchella’s at an age now where she’s trying to figure out who she is and what her identity is, and I understand her wanting to do that away from the public eye.” Despite her caution, like many mothers in the public eye, Em is not immune to attacks over her credentials as a parent, particularly over social media. While such intense criticism may send many women to the wall, wracking them with shame and self-doubt, Em barely lets the barbs scratch the surface, exhibiting an admirable level of self-confidence when it comes to her parenting. “One thing I’m rock steady on is that I’m a fucking good mother,” says Em. “I look at my two kids every night as confirmation of that. Anything anyone says just kind of rolls off, because those two are such brilliant humans that their Dad and I have obviously done something right. So people can criticise all they want, but the proof is in my children and they’re pretty awesome.” What also helps is her legion of adoring female fans, ever ready on social media to offer support and solidarity should someone choose to take her on, whether it’s over her language, or most recently an unexpected response to a post about bacon. “I have this fierce 200,000-odd strong army of amazing women, and some men, who will just jump on top of anyone who has a go at me,” she says. “I don’t really need to do much in defence of myself, because they’re just incredible.”


special cover feature story | education | xxxxxx

15 pages of

education

A PARENTS' GUIDE TO

choosing a school p28

creativity IN SCHOOLS p34

education special feature

It may still seem like yesterday to us (although we know it was actually a pretty LONG time ago, especially in our children's eyes!) but a lot really has changed in schools since the days of blackboards and chalk - and it's not just the technology. Find out how creativity, circus and food are playing a part in our children's education.

surviving year 8 p36

RUBY'S TIPS FOR MAKING IT THROUGH THE FIRST YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL

STEPHANIE ALEXANDER'S

kitchen garden classroom

TEACHING CHILDREN TO GROW AND COOK FRESH FOOD p40

autumn 2016

25


special feature | choosing a school

BY ROHAN FEEGRADE

Choosing a school for your children should be an exciting time in a family’s life. It’s the start of an era. However, with approximately one hundred private schools and even more public schools in and around Adelaide, choosing a great school has become increasingly more complex.

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any “leading” private schools in Adelaide rely heavily on their reputation from years past and the word of loyal old collegians. Having worked for many years in some of those private schools, and now as the Managing Director of an Educational Consultancy practice, I have seen generations of families believing unequivocally that the school they attended is the best place of learning for their child. With so much choice and their child’s future riding on this decision, it makes me question – how can they be sure? Certain schools here in South Australia are doing wonderful things in terms of investing in teaching and learning and supporting the ‘whole’ student.

Rohan's Top 4 considerations when

 Exceptional Leadership and Vision Is there a clear vision and direction the school is taking to develop a truly 21st century education for students? Is positive student and parent leadership and role modeling evident within the school?

 Active and Responsive School Governance Are the principal, leadership team, teachers, parents and students involved in shared decision-making? Is there synergy between the governing council and in-school leadership?

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This is achieved by appreciating that each student is a unique individual and each student responds better to different learning stimuli. However, there is undeniable evidence that some schools in South Australia are letting our children down. In the 2014 Global Report on Education, a report that is part of a wide-ranging programme of educational analysis, Australia’s national education system had fallen in ranking to 15th. This is an alarming statistic. We must now question, are we giving education and school choice " Each the necessary consideration student is a it deserves? unique ind ividual and each student responds better to differ ent choosing a school learning stimuli "

 Teaching and Learning as the Core Business

Schools must value, acknowledge and reward students and teachers success. It places great importance on the taught curriculum and teaching pedagogy.

 Embrace Technology and Model Innovation

Does the school have a technology plan and roll out schedule? There must be a shared vision with clear objectives outlining where the school is now and where they want to be.


special feature | choosing a school

A more general factor to look for is the willngness of the school and the teachers to communicate frequently with families and a willingness to communicate via digital formats about happenings at school is a must. The use of digital communication speaks volumes about a school’s willingness to embrace technology as part of their curriculum. Another sign of a good school is it’s involvement with families and the local community. This provides excellent role modeling for students to learn how to be an active contributor in their community. The term ‘wellbeing’ is a buzzword in educational circles, student wellbeing programs are a priority in great schools. This shows a commitment to building resilient learners who are socially inclusive of others and able to cope with life pressures. These schools also have a strong-arm approach to bullying and instill restorative justice principles. In addition, schools should have high is the teacher. While a school may be well levels of teacher wellbeing. This reflects the resourced and have excellent teachertime teachers are given to plan rich and " It is student ratios, this is useless if the le engaging programs for their students teacher is not passionate and skilled in undeniab gle sin without being overloaded with excessive e h t t the art of teaching. a th fluence commitments. A great way to assess in t s When choosing the best school for e g big nt this is by looking into staff retention your child you must determine the on stude nt e rates of schools. educational priorities for your family achievem e h When it comes to the question of t is whilst also considering the strengths, " which school is best - no one school is the teacher weaknesses, needs and learning style best for every student. At the core of this is of your child. I encourage families appreciating that, like we are all different and to speak openly with schools and feel unique human beings, so too are we as learners. confident asking challenging questions. After all, Everyone has different learning styles and models that education is a life long journey, and our children’s future suit us best. It is a well-known statistic that in South depends on a successful start to that journey. Australia the highest levels of academic achievement generally result from single-sex schooling, particularly Rohan Feegrade is the Managing Director of Feegrade girls schools. While this model may suit a particular type Educational Consultancy. He has taught and been a of learner, it will not suit everyone. part of leadership within the education sector in South This also raises the age-old debate of public versus Australia and overseas. Rohan's experience spans the primary, secondary and university education sectors. private. Again, the same concept applies. It is undeniable that the single biggest influence on student achievement WWW.FEEGRADE.COM.AU Members of the Australian Tutoring Association

Tailored Tutoring - How can we help your child excel at school? At Feegrade we have a simple philosophy when it comes to tutoring, teaching and learning - “Learn about the Learner”. Every student learns differently, which is why we employ outstanding and highly qualified registered teachers to meet the learning needs of each individual student. This is why we are regarded as Adelaide’s best and most trusted tuition service. We have the perfect teacher to best support your child’s academic development. • • • • •

Reception through to year 12 (all subjects) All SACE and IB subject areas Study skills, essay writing skills, test and exam preparation Specialised ESL support We offer in-home or on-site tuitions

Further Services • • • • •

School Choice Consultancy Small Group Targeted Workshops Consultancy Services Study Skills Seminars School Holiday Workshops

Like us on facebook

For more information, please visit our website or contact us

www.feegrade.com.au (08) 8232 9798 | info@feegrade.com.au 263 North Tce. Adelaide 5000

Feegrade Tutoring

… ‘Watch them excel!’

autumn 2016

27


special feature | education

learn, live, be more: thomas more college

T

he Thomas More College community celebrates learning, recognises achievement and supports those who continually strive to do their best. Our comprehensive curriculum and advanced technology provides students with choices for learning that are contemporary and relevant to the world we live in today.

“We pride ourselves on our academic curriculum, cultural diversity, proud traditions and the strength of our community. We acknowledge the role of the individual and are committed to helping every student maximise their experience.� We believe education is at the heart of a life well lived. It is a philosophy we instil in our students and one which underpins our College maxim of Learn More. Live More. Be More. As a co-educational Catholic College, Thomas More prides itself on its academic curriculum, cultural diversity, proud traditions and the strength of our community. Our students, families and faculty value and promote a lifelong love of learning, the search for truth, a commitment to faith

Taking enrolments now. Book for a Principal’s Tour.

08 8I82 2600

www.tmc.catholic.edu.au

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autumn 2016

and a desire to help shape a better world. The College also acknowledges the role of the individual in their education. We are committed to helping every student maximise their Thomas More experience. Our appeal as a school rests in our sense of community, the values we celebrate, our commitment to realising the potential of young men and women, and in providing a balanced education that addresses the academic, social, emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of our students' lives. Thomas More College believes in exploring varied learning pathways, living beyond the classroom and achieving more than you dreamed possible for the future. We extend an invitation to meet with our Principal, Mr. Andrew Balkwill, to discover how we challenge our students to Learn More, Live More and Be More. To fully appreciate our facilities and what we have to offer, please contact our Enrolment Registrar, Mrs. Margy Greenwood on 8182 2600.

2016 Semester 1 Tour dates: Friday March 11 at 9:15am Saturday May 14 at 9:30am Monday May 16 at 9:15am Saturday June 4 at 1:30pm Thursday June 9 at 4:00pm


special feature | education

wilderness school:

challenging girls

to do their best “And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been.” Rainer Maria Rilke

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he start of a new year is always rich with potential as we look to set personal resolutions and goals, and challenge ourselves with new experiences. As we enter the 2016 school year, refreshed and energised, there is much promise that lies ahead for the Wilderness School community. Wilderness School is a very exciting place to be at the start of the year as we welcome the newest members of our school community and watch the Year 12s ready to embrace their final year of schooling with enthusiasm and anticipation. 2015 was an outstanding year for Wilderness with several noteworthy accomplishments including recognition for our Principal, Jane Danvers as a Finalist in the Telstra Business Women of the Year Awards. As we farewelled 2015, Wilderness School was thrilled to celebrate the success of its Year 12 cohort who achieved outstanding results, for which our students and their teachers can be proud. To read more about girls results visit www.wilderness.com.au Principal Jane Danvers remarks ‘Wilderness School has a long history of challenging our girls to do their best and to become confident, kind, resilient and responsible global citizens. A significant contributor to this success is our learning environment – it allows every girl to have a well-rounded education and to pursue her unique talents and interests.’

February 2016 saw the School community celebrate the opening of three new state of the art facilities, which have all been meticulously designed to enrich the learning experience of our girls with innovative and flexible teaching environments, which encourage collaboration, creativity and student-driven learning. We look forward to many more accomplishments throughout 2016, which promises to be another outstanding year for the Wilderness School community.

JOIN US FOR A SCHOOL TOUR AND VIEW OUR NEW STATE OF THE ART FACILITIES BOOK ONLINE TODAY AT WWW.WILDERNESS.COM.AU

www.wilderness.com.au autumn 2016

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special feature | education

pedare christian college @

FIRST robotics competition ®

BY EMIL ZANKOV, STEM & TECHNOLOGY TEACHER, PEDARE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

I

love Kickstarter, in particular the design area. I enjoy seeing the many creative ideas culminating into products, designs, concepts and projects. For those who are unaware, Kickstarter is a company that provides a platform for crowd funding. People who have a cause or interest can be financially supported by promoting their concept online to millions of potential supporters. I regularly browse the design area, where you can find fresh, innovative, creative, sometimes quirky to even ridiculous concepts being pitched. Some pitches are underpinned by a social cause where the product or service will support or improve the lives of others. One product which springs to mind is “BioLite”. According to their website the concept was derived on the following fact: "Half the planet still cooks on smoky open fires, killing more people annually than AIDS and Malaria combined. This motivated our team to develop the BioLite HomeStove, a low-cost biomass cookstove that dramatically reduces emissions while co-generating usable electricity.” (Kickstarter, BioLite)

At the end of 2015, through the support of Macquarie University, Pedare was able to enter and will compete in the FIRST® Robotics Competition. This large-scale robotics competition requires teams to build robots that perform in a competitive environment against other teams from all over the world.

"The 21st Century demands a generation of young people with a wide variety of skills and abilities" Like the Biolite team these Kickstarter projects typically start with a small team which could be made up of dedicated designers, engineers, technicians, software engineers and the creative entrepreneur who had the vision to start with. As a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) teacher, at Pedare Christian College, these small teams of entrepreneurs typify my objective to develop young people with the necessary skills to be successful members of our society on a global level. The 21st century demands a generation of young people with a wide variety of skills and abilities. Being able to think creatively, intuitively interpret information, work collaboratively, critically reflect and make adjustments to thinking, use intellect and emotional intelligence to communicate effectively are essential skills to face the challenges of this fast paced and ever changing world. Recently promoted by the Federal Government as the "IDEAS BOOM” the Government sees this focus on innovation as our future. According to the information on the National Innovation and Science Agenda website, over the next decade an estimated 75 per cent of jobs in the fastest-growing industries will need skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

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In the last five weeks I have had the privilege of working with a small team of Pedare Middle & Senior School students as they build their robot while gaining abilities to think creatively through the use of product design, problem solve, work collaboratively with other students and mentors and critically reflect on their learning and make adjustments accordingly. As the robot builds, students have also started building a solid foundation of skills that will provide them with the opportunity to excel in the fast paced environment now and into the future. On behalf of the Pedare Robotics Team we wish all competing teams in the FIRST® Robotics Competition the very best as we compete at the Sydney Olympic Park Centre on 17, 18, 19 March with 50 other teams from USA, Taiwan, India, Singapore, China, and Australia. Photos: www.innovation.gov.au/audience/young-australians


www.pedarecc.sa.edu.au

We invite you to tour the College, Senior Wattle Centre, re-developed Middle School Science Labs and learn more about the College’s Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Programme. Pedare Middle & Senior School students will compete in the FIRSTŽ Robotics Competition held in the Sydney Olympic Park Centre on 17, 18, 19 March with 50 other teams from the USA, Taiwan, India, Singapore, China, and Australia. This is the first year Pedare has entered the competition supported by Google and Macquarie University.

Middle School (Year 6 - 9) Senior School (Year 10 - 12)

Pedare Christian College, 2-30 Surrey Farm Drive, Golden Grove visit us at www.pedarecc.sa.edu.au or call 08 8280 1700

MY LEARNING | MY COMMUNITY | MY PEDARE


special feature | education

stem beyond the classroom at loreto college BY CHERYL STEPHENS, HEAD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING, LORETO COLLEGE

I

n 2013 Australia’s Chief Scientist, Professor Ian Chubb AC challenged schools to develop Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programs that ensured our youth would profit from the 75 per cent of jobs that will be based in this area in the future. Reminding us that, “we will get the future we earn”, Chubb linked our country’s prosperity directly with the critical and creative thinking skills that evolve from engagement in STEM. This belief was most recently reinforced by our Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull’s statement that Australia needed to “innovate or perish.” In response to these calls to develop STEM programs, Loreto College appointed a lead teacher to create an innovative

R-10 digital technology program based on the National Curriculum. We established partnerships with UniSA and Flinders University, enabling students to engage in the use of cutting-edge technology. Workshops were developed in which girls used coding to develop environmentally sound solutions to problems and their success was recognised on ABC’s Behind the News program. A weekly STEM club provides girls the opportunity to take risks in a supportive and fun environment. The club’s most recent project, where students created, programmed and flew their own roto-copters, was an incredible and rewarding learning experience. Loreto College has an established reputation as a leading STEM girl’s school. However, our values call for us to be much more than that. Our foundress Mary Ward told us that, “for those who have much, much is expected.” In 2013 the United Nations reported that “STEM education can remove poverty and reduce inequality in developing nations”, and as such, we are using our STEM skills for not only our own prosperity but for the prosperity of others. On our overseas pilgrimages, our Loreto girls will act as STEM ambassadors, leading STEM classes when visiting remote primary schools run by the Loreto Sisters. This form of capacity building will ensure that both our students and the students in the remote communities we visit, become technological innovators rather than just adopters.

College Tours Wednesday 16 March, 9.15am Friday 13 May, 9.15am Online bookings essential

A Catholic day & boarding school for girls from ELC to Year 12 W loreto.sa.edu.au T 8334 4200 E enrolments@loreto.sa.edu.au

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Senior School starts in Year 7. Enrol now for Year 7 and Year 8 for 2017.


special feature | education

local learning: adelaide tuition centre Since 1980, Adelaide Tuition Centre has provided learning opportunities to South Australian students.

W

hat began as a private tuition business has evolved into Adelaide’s premier tuition centre and publisher for SACE Stage 1 and 2 students. Hannah Martin-Skerm is Director of the Centre along with business partner Sam Barry. Both have worked with the Adelaide Tuition Centre for more than a decade, and took over the business in 2013. Martin-Skerm’s father, Greg Eather, founded the Adelaide Tuition Centre in 1980 when he realised students were struggling to reach their maximum potential. With a background in teaching and English Literature, Eather began a small, hands-on private tuition business to give students the benefit of a tailored learning experience. This passion for teaching and willingness to adapt to different learning styles still inspires the Centre today. “We’re proud of the Adelaide Tuition Centre’s roots,” says Martin-Skerm, adding that Greg Eather was recently nominated for an Order of Australia for his services to Education in SA. “But we’re also proud of how the Centre is growing—we’ve evolved to suit the needs of this new generation of high school students.” More than 45,000 students have benefited from the Adelaide Tuition Centre’s Year 12 Holiday Seminars.

We’re proud of how the Centre is growing - we’ve evolved to suit the needs of this new generation of high school students. These three-hour sessions cover SACE Stage 2 subjects in depth, help students revise and teach them how to respond skilfully to exam questions. “The seminars began as a tool to assist students with revision in their crucial final year, to help them achieve maximum results,” says Martin-Skerm. “The seminars also offer different perspectives to those taught by their regular teachers; this can help students gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.” Students benefit from sessions that are tailored to their

level, with high achievers through to those requiring more assistance placed into streams appropriate to their current subject grade. The Centre’s online booking system (adelaidetuition. com.au) lets students pick their sessions and arrange their timetable—students can even request to be in the same group as their friends. Students who enrol in five or more sessions before Monday, April 4, will receive an earlybird discount of $5 per session. The flexibility of the seminar timetables means students learn what they need to, and don’t get burnt out in the lead up to exams. “Every year, we receive overwhelming feedback from students and parents thanking us for our Year 12 courses,” says MartinSkerm. “Many of our teachers hail from Adelaide’s top schools and are well respected in their fields of expertise. Students also benefit from specially designed seminar notes, which are often written by the Essentials authors.” Essentials Education is the publishing side of the business. The publisher currently prints 39 SACE titles, including popular Chemistry and Biology Workbooks. Last year, the business launched a range of UMAT workbooks for students facing the daunting entrance exam for medical studies. “I suppose we do have a lot on our plates,” says MartinSkerm, “but it’s because we’re passionate about education and are committed to helping students achieve their absolute personal best.”

YEAR 12 HOLIDAY SEMINARS April 18 – 27

SACE Stage 2 subjects

Receive exclusive seminar notes

Work with our Essentials workbook and textbook authors

Design your own flexible study program

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL ENDS APRIL 4, SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS For more information or bookings, call or visit –

8241 5568 / adelaidetuition.com.au

Seminar venue

St Aloysius College – near Victoria Sq.

autumn 2016

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special feature | creativity in schools

It’s not what they

KNOW, but

what they DO with it

BY JODIE BENVENISTE

Classrooms have changed, and creativity now leads the charge in forward thinking educational settings, as psychologist Jodie Benveniste explains.

S

CHOOLS have definitely changed. Not so long ago, education was all about paying attention in class, rote learning, and regurgitating as much information as possible at exam time. If you did an assignment, it was more about finding information by searching through the encyclopaedia or reference books and then reporting back. There was a bit of analysis, but certainly little creativity. Fortunately, times have changed. We now live in a world where information is everywhere, and access to information is immediate and effortless. Finding information isn’t the challenge anymore. Now it’s all about what students do with the information - how they apply knowledge, adapt it, and contribute to what is already known. Creative use of information has replaced rote learning. Leading universities, national curricula, educational experts and employers all recognise the value of creative thought. Future leaders and doers will require a spirit of enquiry, adaptability, independent thought and entrepreneurial skills – not just the ability to find and report information. Creativity has become an integral part of the education process. A good example of what schools are doing to encourage creativity is Creativity Week at St John’s Grammar School in Belair. Year 8 students spend a week exploring their creativity and using creative processes. During Creativity Week, students hear from industry experts about how creativity has helped in their

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organisations, they meet with local artists who explain their creative process, and they take a brief from a local business and then create an advertisement for them. The Art Gallery of South Australia also provides a customised tour of the latest exhibition, and runs a workshop with student artists to develop an original piece. All of these activities encourage open-ended responses, critical thinking skills, group work, and the opportunity to problem solve. Then at the end the week, the students are involved in the Ctrl+Alt+Design creativity challenge, where they produce an original product like a sustainable house, a classroom of the future, an iPhone app, musical composition or an innovative nutritional product. Amazing! Encouraging our children’s creativity is an important part of engaging them in learning and preparing them for life beyond school. So how can we support and encourage creativity in our children? Here are a few ideas:

Encourage discussion Provide opportunities to chat about issues and encourage your kids to discuss their opinions. Explore the consequences or impact of different points of view, rather than focusing on judging ‘right’ or ‘wrong’. Consider crazy, left-field ideas and out-of-the-box thinking by asking ‘What if…?’ questions, and exploring options. Allow your children to disagree with you.


special feature | creativity in schools

So much creative activity involves trying and failing. . . Your kids will fail – but that’s okay.

themselves. Take them through a process where they identify the problem, brainstorm ideas, assess options, choose a solution, give it a go, and then reassess. Focus on the process rather than success or failure so your kids become skilled in making decisions and following through.

Allow risk taking

As your kids get older, allow them more freedom and opportunities to be independent. Expect them to take on more responsibilities, and encourage them to take risks and pursue activities and goals that are important to them. Your kids will fail – but that’s okay. Be there to support them when they do. Help them to learn from their mistakes and continue on.

Encourage self-reflection

Support a growth mindset So much creative activity involves trying and failing. That’s why it’s important to encourage our kids to adopt a growth mindset, which allows them to say: ‘I can get better through trying and learning.’ Kids with the growth mindset give things a go, embrace mistakes and enjoy learning. Parents can reinforce a growth mindset by praising their children for the effort they put into activities, rather than the outcome.

Let them solve problems Instead of sweeping in and coming up with a solution to a problem, help your children to solve their problems

The creative process involves self-assessment and selfreflection. What went well? What needs improving? How did that feel? What would I like to explore next? Instead of thinking for your children, give them space to reflect on what they think and feel. Encourage them to look within themselves for insights, rather than always looking outside of themselves for answers. Creativity is a fundamental life skill. Both at school and at home, we can encourage creativity by supporting kids to engage with the creative process, cultivate a creative mindset, and enjoy learning! Jodie Benveniste is a psychologist, parenting author and a great believer in the power of intuitive parenting. You can get your free gift ‘Unlocking the secrets of intuitive parenting’ at her website.

WWW.JODIEBENVENISTE.COM

EMPOWERING MUMS TO LOOK AFTER THEMSELVES AND TAKE CHARGE OF THEIR OWN WELLBEING!

www.energeticmama.com

email jessica@energeticmama.com

Get your Free copy of my ‘top 10 wholefood Pantry Staples’ so you can be well stocked to make healthy food quickly and easily. Download your copy at www.energeticmama.com

www.stjohns.sa.edu.au autumn 2016

35


special feature | education

high l o o h sc l a v i v sur

A+

by ruby stewart

Across the state last month thousands of teenagers and soon-tobe teenagers made the leap from being king of the primary school playground to a mere underling at high school. While some might have found their feet quickly in their new environment, others may still be finding the transition a little more overwhelming. We asked our ‘teen insider’ Ruby Stewart, for her advice on how to survive the adjustment.

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special feature | education

T

he first year of high school is a massive milestone in a teenager’s life. It can be an extremely intimidating and overwhelming time, but it can also be a very exciting and positive experience. Having made it through my first year unscathed, I’m passing on what I’ve learned to help teach the 2016 newbies how to survive their first year of high school.

Get involved

In high school there are a wide range of new activities to try that may not have been available in primary school, such as: sailing, rowing, fencing, public speaking, debating, band, plus so much more! If one of these new activities appeals to you then go for it! If you later decide that maybe it wasn’t for you, then that’s okay, look for something else that takes your fancy and have a go at that. There are so many great opportunities at high school so be sure to grab them with both hands. You never know, you might just find a new activity that you develop a real passion for.

Find a balance between work and play

One very important thing about school, and possibly the most hated part, is homework. Yes, that annoying pest that, no matter how hard we try to avoid it, still seems to appear in our school bag every night. In high school the after hours study load escalates dramatically, so we may find ourselves spending a little less time doing the things we love and a little more time hitting the books. However, we still need to be able to have some downtime. A way to find balance between work and play is to have short study breaks during homework time. Some students enjoy listening to music while doing their study, and many of my friends say it helps them concentrate, as well as making homework more entertaining. Apparently choosing instrumental pieces over the latest pop song can enhance focus levels.

Remember, you’re only going to be a high school student once, so make the most of it!

organised for high school, and know when and where your classes are, as well as what you need for them. You wouldn’t want to turn up to maths class with your art book! Be sure to plan your school week out in a diary or notebook, as well as record homework for each night of the week. If you’re organised then you’ll have more time to relax!

Make friends

Being social and having friends is a huge part of a high school student’s life. School is the most common place where teenagers will likely make friends. In your first year of high school, it is possible that you might not know anyone. Make sure you reach out to others and get to know all your peers. You may not click with every single person in your year level, but that’s okay as long as you’re friendly and open to everyone no matter who they are. At my high school I have a great group of friends who I can to talk to about school related happenings, as well as have fun together at school.

There are so many great opportunities at high school so be sure to grab them with both hands

...and don’t forget to enjoy yourself! High school, while it can seem daunting, is a memorable time in the life of a teen. Not only will you have new responsibilities and be learning amazing new things, but you’ll also have experiences and make friends that could last your whole lifetime. I started high school last year and I’ve made friends that I’m sure I’ll be with for the rest of my schooling days and even beyond. Remember, you’re only going to be a high school student once, so make the most of it! The best way parents can help is to offer loads of love and support through what is going to be one of the most exciting, emotional, inspiring and challenging times of a teenager’s life.

Be organised

High school often means students have to move around to different classrooms a lot more than they did in their final years of primary school. There’s also less direction when it comes to setting up study schedules or completing assignments on time. Therefore it’s very important to be

Now in year 9, Ruby Stewart is a high school student with her sights set on a career in journalism. Her loves include netball, softball, piano, reading, One Direction and her pets - a dog called Hamish, a cat called Philip and two fish.

autumn 2016

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circus WITH A PURPOSE! special feature | education

Purpose! WITH A

A recent study by UniSA has revealed a direct link between the participation in circus activities and the increase of motivation and engagement of students - "CIRKIDZ IN SCHOOLS 2015"
UNISA RESEARCH PROJECT

THE CIRKIDZ STORY

Cirkidz is a not-for-profit organisation that was founded in 1985 to provide meaningful recreation and A recentengagement study byopportunities for disadvantaged community UniSA has revealed a 30 years later we are still youth in Adelaide’s inner west. empowering young people direct link betweenby enhancing their social, physical and creative development through value based the participation in training and a lot of fun! Circus is not only great fun, it’s circus activities also really good forand you! the

increase of motivation and engagement of students

WIN A TOYOTA

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Cirkidz is a not-for-profit organisation that was founded in to provide meaningful recreation and community engagem opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Adelaide’s inner west. 30 years later we are still empowering young people by enhancing their social, physical and creative developm through value based training and a lot of fun!

THE CIRKIDZ JOURNEY

The children begin their journey in our Tiddlerz program (a 2.5 - 5) where they begin to understand how their bodies and learn through play. Parents and guardians participate with their child during class and help them to explore and The children their journey in ourIt’s Tiddlerz learn tobegin coordinate their bodies. a terrific way to bond programyour (ageschild 2.5 -while 5) where to understand theythey learnbegin beneficial skills such as balance how theircoordination bodies workand by learning to play. Parents and flexibility. In the next age group, Tackerz guardians participate with their child during class and 5 - 8) the children participate on their own and are learnin help them to explore their surroundings while they learn share, bond and develop empathy as they recognise that to coordinate their bodies. It’s a terrific way to bond world is greater than just their family unit. with your child while they learn beneficial skills such as balance, coordination and flexibility. Our Tweenz (ages 9 - 12) continue their journey as they lea resilience and develop their own identity through learning to problem solve and developing a sense of responsibility They are learning to analyse and find their place in the wid community. Finally our Teenz (ages 13 - 17) are now devel techniques to confidently survey risks and challenges and continuing to shape their own identity.

The Cirkidz journey

CIRCUS FOR SUCCESS!

YARIS

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THE CIRKIDZ STORY

RRP

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A recent study conducted by UniSA with Cirkidz and Ocea View College provided some exciting insights into the ben of attending weekly circus classes. The students attended circus classes once a week over a year long period at scho as well as our circus centre. The study showed that circus improved the motivation and engagement of school stude and also showed an improvement to their planning and ta management skills in the class room.

The opportunity to be involved in Cirkidz lessons enabled the students in the study to develop not only new physica LOTTERY skills but also new social and2016 cognitive skills too. Their leve confidence improved as did their ability to bond with othe RRP $1,200 4TH Prize the class. Trainers also identified the development of team RRP $1,178 5TH Prize trust, and respect behaviours from those students involved RRP $330 PERchildren TICKET in the study love 6TH Prize the weekly training sessions. The attending circus sessions and enjoyed being active. They To purchase your ticket contact the Minda fundraising team on 8422 valued 6555 orbeing able to learn new skills and to be able to per go to www.mindainc.com.au/2016-community-lottery for more information. for and with others.

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Lottery conducted by Minda Inc. SA Licence No M13062. 3,500 tickets printed. All proceeds of lottery will benefit Minda Inc. Drawn Wednesday, 29 June 2016 at 2pm at Verco Hall, Minda 12 - 16 King George Ave, North Brighton SA 5048. Results published in The Advertiser on Friday July 1, 2016. All of these amazing benefits from learning the

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autumn 2016

trapeze, acrobatics and juggling (and more!) whilest making new fr and having a good time? Yes please!

Cirkidz is all about fun and being yourself in a non compet


special feature | education and develop their own identity through learning to problem solve and developing a sense of responsibility. They are learning to analyse and find their place in the wider community. Finally our Teenz (ages 13 - 17) are now developing techniques to confidently survey risks and challenges and are continuing to shape their own identity into adulthood.

Circus for success!

In the next age group, Tackerz (ages 5 - 8) the children now participate independently and learn to share, bond and develop empathy as they recognise that their world is greater than just their family unit. Our Tweenz (ages 9 - 12) continue their journey as they learn resilience

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ANT IQUES

A recent study conducted by UniSA with Cirkidz and Ocean View College provided some exciting insights into the benefits of attending weekly circus classes. The students attended circus classes once a week over a year long period at school as well as our circus centre. The study showed that circus improved the motivation and engagement of school students and also showed an improvement to their planning and task management skills in the class room. The opportunity to be involved in Cirkidz lessons enabled the students in the study to develop not only new physical skills but also new social and cognitive skills too. Their level of confidence improved as did their ability to bond with others in the class. Trainers also identified the development of teamwork, trust, and respect behaviours from those students involved in the weekly training sessions. The children in the study loved attending circus sessions and enjoyed being active. They valued being able to learn new skills and to be able to perform for and with others. All of these amazing benefits from learning the trapeze, acrobatics and juggling (and more!) whilst making new friends and having a good time? Yes please! Cirkidz is all about fun and being yourself in a non competitive environment. Children are encouraged to go at their own pace and no child is left behind in circus arts. Trainers are fully qualified.

For a FREE lesson and 10% discount for the remainder of semester 1, 2016, please mention ‘Avery’ when you call 8346 5735, email circus@cirkidz.org.au or visit www.cirkidz org.au Find Cirkidz on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

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in the kitchen | Stephanie Alexander

A food philosophy that makes sense. For almost 15 years the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation has been at the forefront of fresh food gardening education for Australia’s primary school students. Now, the program is extending, so children of pre-school age, as well as high school students, will also be able to experience the joys of growing and cooking their own seasonal food.

T

he Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation is guiding the flourishing kitchen garden community with a new membership service – the Kitchen Garden Classroom. This new offering is based on the foundation’s highly successful Kitchen Garden Program, which is now running in more than 800 Australian schools, including 99 in South Australia. While the Kitchen Garden Program is only run in primary schools, the new membership service sees the foundation opening up its services to secondary schools, kindergartens, childcare centres and preschools as well. It allows schools and early learning centres to start small using what they have at hand – so there’s no need for expensive equipment or ready-made gardens – and it also

allows schools and centres to adapt the program model to fit their own circumstances and budget. The new service has been welcomed by South Australia, with primary schools, secondary schools, childcare and children’s centres across the state already joining the Kitchen Garden Classroom community. Kitchen Garden Foundation CEO Ange Barry said the new membership enabled the foundation to help schools and centres develop fun and engaging kitchen garden programs and activities. “Children learn the joys of growing, harvesting, preparing and sharing food, and that fresh, seasonal food is delicious,” Ange said.

Tenison Woods College kitchen garden students proudly display their school garden harvest

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in the kitchen | Stephanie Alexander “They love eating the food because they are growing it and cooking it themselves. We hear of children who try a vegetable for the first time, or one they swore they didn’t like, and then go home and ask for it for dinner. “Growing veggies at school also sparks a passion in students, as oo l ki tc he n ga rd en we also hear of many kids going M cD on al d Pa rk S ch ho ol ga rd en home and starting their own en ts wa te r th ie r sc ud st garden after learning how to do Ea ge r Mc Do na ld Pa rk Sc ho ol kit ch en ga rd en it at school.” st ud en ts dig a ne w ga rd With a staggering one in four en be d at re ce ss Australian children classified as obese, Ange says learning to grow and cook healthy food, as well as keeping active out in the garden, would have a positive impact on children’s health. have just harvested a vegetable from the garden, or plated up a beautiful meal to share with their peers, is the best proof of the success of kitchen garden programs … and The proud, radiant smiles on the faces we see these contagious smiles in schools and centres all of students who have just harvested a around Australia.” Schools and centres keen to reap the benefits of vegetable from the garden, or plated kitchen garden programs and activities can tap into the up a beautiful meal to share with their foundation’s wealth of information on how to start a peers, is the best proof of the success kitchen garden from scratch and build up a program that works for their school or centre. of kitchen garden programs. Members of the Kitchen Garden Classroom get access to hundreds of resources, recipes and information sheets “These are important skills they will take with them all available on the Kitchen Garden Foundation’s online through their lives,” Ange said. community, the Shared Table. However, the kitchen garden programs are not just about teaching children the importance of eating a healthy Children learn the joys of growing, diet, they can also be integrated across the Australian harvesting, preparing and sharing food, Curriculum or into the Early Years Learning Framework. “For example, children learn maths in the garden by and that fresh, seasonal food is delicious mapping out the area of garden beds and plotting plant growth on graphs, science by studying the pH levels of soil and English by reading recipes and keeping a garden Through the Shared Table, educators are also able to journal,” Ange said. tap into a network of more than 3600 like-minded kitchen As well as being a great addition to primary schools, garden enthusiasts at schools and early years services kitchen gardens could also be integrated in the secondary across Australia. This network allows educators to share school curriculum and give early years services fun their students’ work in the kitchen and garden, as well as new ways to meet the Early Years Learning Framework well as find inspiration by scrolling through the exciting outcomes. things happening at other schools and centres. Educators Ange said kitchen and garden classes also promoted can also use the resource to seek advice from others who teamwork and self-esteem. are further down the kitchen garden path. “Learning to deal with successes and failures in the The Kitchen Garden Foundation team is there to guide kitchen and garden is a great way for students to develop schools and centres with phone and email support, as well resilience and build self-esteem,” she said. as professional learning – including face-to-face training, “The proud, radiant smiles on the faces of students who online learning and all-school training.

Fees for schools and centres wishing to join the Kitchen Garden Classroom include a $165 joining fee and $110 annual renewal, with a simple online registration form and no ongoing commitments. For more information about how schools and centres can join the Kitchen Garden Classroom visit kitchengardenfoundation.org.au or call the support line on 13000 SAKGF (13000 72543). Parents interested in their child’s school or centre joining the Kitchen Garden Classroom can find tips on how to approach your principal or centre manager on the membership page, and are also welcome to call the support line. autumn 2016

41


in the kitchen | Stephanie Alexander

in the kitchen with the

Stephanie

photograph JAMES GRANT

Alexander

Kitchen Garden Foundation Brighten up an Autumn day with fresh and colourful food packed with herbs from the garden. These Mexican-inspired recipes make great additions to a lunch or dinner and a kick of chilli will help to ward off the chill.

mexican green rice Serves 4 Ingredients 2 lightly packed cups chopped parsley 1 cup chopped coriander 1 onion, roughly chopped What to do

4 large poblano chillies or green capsicums, seeded and roughly chopped 2 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 2 deseeded green chillies

• Prepare the ingredients based on the instructions in the ingredients list. • Place the parsley, coriander, poblano chillies or capsicum, onion, garlic, green chillies and ½ cup of the chicken stock in the food processor. Pulse until smooth. • Heat the oil in the pot on high heat. • Add the rice and stir to coat all of the grains with oil. Spread out in an even layer. Let the rice lightly brown. When it starts to brown, stir it and spread it out in an even layer again so that more of the rice browns.

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4½ cups chicken stock (or more*) 4 tbsp sunflower oil 3 cups long-grain white rice salt to taste

• Scrape out the parsley purée from the food processor and mix it into the rice. Cook for a minute or two. • Add the rest of the chicken stock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the pot. Cook on a very low simmer for 15 minutes. • Remove the pot from heat. • Uncover the pot and place a clean tea towel over, then recover with the lid. The towel will help absorb excess liquid as the rice continues to cook in its own steam. • Let it sit for 20 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve.


in the kitchen | Stephanie Alexander

styling SARAH SHANAHAN | photography NICOLE ASPINALL

The Kitchen Garden Classroom is a NEW approach to pleasurable food education

Corn Salsa Serves 8 This salsa is a great starter or snack with flatbread, which you can find a recipe for at kitchengardenfoundation.org.au Ingredients 4 corn cobs 2 spring onions, finely sliced 1 green capsicum, finely sliced 1 red capsicum, finely sliced

1 tsp cumin seeds ½ tsp coriander seeds 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil salt and pepper handful of fresh coriander

What to do

• Carefully slice the corn kernels from the cob. • Dry-fry the cumin and coriander seeds for 1 minute, then add the oil. • Add the onion and capsicum and fry for 5 minutes. • Add and stir through the corn kernels, cover with the lid and cook for 5–7 minutes. Then take off the heat and leave, covered, to steam for a few minutes. • Taste for seasoning, adding salt and pepper if necessary. • Tear up the coriander and sprinkle over the dip before serving. *Use the amount of stock that is the liquid requirement of your particular brand of rice. Long-grain rice typically ranges from 1½ cups of liquid per cup of rice to 2 cups of liquid per cup of rice. Recipes from the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation. Find out how your child’s school can join the Kitchen Garden Classroom at kitchengardenfoundation.org.au

It’s easy! It’s fun! It’s flexible! It’s affordable!

Learn how your school or learning centre can join today. Phone: 13000 SAKGF (13000 72543) Visit: www.kitchengardenfoundation.org.au autumn 2016

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wellbeing | naturopath

On the ROAD again! BY JESS DONOVAN, NATUROPATH

With the last few weeks of warm weather upon us and an abundance of long weekends on the horizon, families currently have plenty of opportunity for getaways. Staying healthy while travelling is something many parents grapple with so Naturopath Jess Donovan shares with us how to plan ahead and make good choices on the road.

M

y family and I have recently embarked on the adventure of a lifetime. It is something my husband and I have talked about since before having our children, and late last year we made the decision to make it a reality. So now, we’re in the early stages of a 12 month trip in a camper trailer, travelling around this beautiful country of ours, with our two children in tow. Although we are planning to keep things as simple as possible, there are still countless things to consider, food being a major one. I am used to having access to beautiful fresh produce from my local farmer’s market and my organic co-op, as well as a big kitchen to store and prepare it all in. The kitchen in our camper is teeny tiny which is taking some getting used to. So while my husband has been focusing on the four wheel drive accessories, I have been focusing on how we are going to stay healthy while on the road. Here’s what I have come up with.

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Plan your drive-time menu The driving part of a holiday is often the hardest time to stay healthy. Bakery and fast food stops may seem like your only choices, but with a little preparation you can avoid them (and the bulging belly that comes with them!) I like to pack all of our lunch and snacks for the road, such as:

    

Chicken and salad mountain bread wraps Cut up raw vegetables (a great way to clear the fridge before you go) Frittata Fresh fruit Raw nuts


wellbeing | naturopath

Pre-make some meals and snacks Use up produce in your fridge by making a big batch of something you can simply warm up after a long day of driving. Bolognese sauce, chilli or curries work well. Whip together a batch of bliss balls, homemade muffins or granola bars so you have healthy snacks along the way.

Make two meals at a time You don’t want to spend your entire holiday cooking, so be time savvy. Make a big batch of one dish so there is enough for a couple of meals, that way you can have a night off cooking.

Be adventurous and try different foods that are local to the area you are visiting.

Keep up your fresh food stocks

Stay Active

Visit farmers markets, fruit and veg shops or supermarkets to always make sure you have fresh food that is easily accessible. Make the most of produce at roadside stalls. Be adventurous and try different foods that are local to the area you are visiting. Make this local produce the star of the dish and build a meal around it.

We have a rule – if we can walk or bike ride then we don’t drive. Walking and bike riding allows you to explore places at a slower pace and keeps you moving, so you don’t have to think about scheduling in exercise.

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast Fresh fruit and yoghurt, a smoothie or an omelette are all great choices for a breakfast to keep you fuelled through the morning. When you go out for the day take fresh food snacks and pack lunch. We usually put together a share plate style lunch when we are out and about. It might include left overs from the night before, cucumbers, carrots, strawberries, bananas, rice crackers, corn chips, avocado, cheese, boiled eggs, nuts and bliss balls.

finally… Most of all, focus on having fun and maintaining a balanced attitude. It’s OK to indulge in fish and chips on the beach as the sun is setting or enjoy an ice-cream once in a while. So don’t forget to also relax and enjoy some switched off time with your family.

Your essential travel shopping list Focus on hardy fruit and vegetables such as sweet potato, carrots, broccoli, capsicum, cucumber, onion, garlic, apples, oranges, lemons. Pack the less hardy produce such as leafy greens, stone fruits and bananas at the top.

 [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  [ ]  []

Seaso n al o rg an ic fru it Ė ve g G rass fed p ro tein E gg s T in s of w ild sa lm o n Ė leg u m e s R a w n u ts R ice cra ck ers, co rn chip s B ro w n rice R o lled o ats M ilk C heese Y o ghu rt

ad d flavo u r wi th sp ices su c h as cin n am o n , p ap rik a Ė cu m in

O live o il, co co n u t o il Sp ices an d sa lt an d p ep p er Herb al teas an d real coffee

autumn 2016

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wellbeing | physical health

To stand or not to stand? BY PATRICK CARBONE

You may have heard they’re the next big thing, but are standing desks really the solution to the epidemic of postural disorders and back pain in both kids and adults? We asked physiotherapist Patrick Carbone where he stands* on this topic. (* Pun totally intended)

N

ECK, shoulder and back pain are common complaints among school children, but also highly prevalent in their office working parents, with 60pc of office workers complaining of musculoskeletal related discomfort. To counter this issue, ergonomically efficient workplaces and the highly sought after ‘sit to stand’ desk are gaining momentum, and with good reason. A Finland based research group conducted a two year study with 16 to 18 year old school students. Adjustable desks and stools were compared against standardised school furniture. Findings showed that for students using the adjustable furniture, sitting postures, standing kyphosis, scoliosis and lordosis (spinal curvatures) became significantly better. These students also demonstrated improvements in trunk muscle strength, with decreased muscle tension through the neck, shoulder and lower back, areas which we know provoke headache and back ache symptoms respectively. Interestingly, these students also displayed higher academic achievement than their counterparts sitting in the standard furniture. However, this is a novel finding and it is unclear if we can attribute this directly to the use of adjustable furniture. Research also shows benefits for adults, with similar findings found in a study of adults with data entry occupations. In our clinic we see patients who suffer back, neck and shoulder discomforts on a daily basis. Some of these people spend six to 10 hours seated without even blinking an eye, and are left with neck, shoulder, upper back related headaches, low back aches and the associated health impacts, even when they leave their workplace.

keyboard at elbow height

So are sit to stand desks the answer? With current studies indicating results such as reductions in musculoskeletal complaints and increases in cognitive function and worker efficiency, why are we not introducing adjustable furniture into more and more workplaces and schools proactively rather than reactively? From a physiotherapy perspective, sit to stand desks present a logical solution. They allow us to implement better postural solutions, particularly for patients who maintain postures for numerous hours a day, and reduce injury while improving efficiency. They are not a magic solution however. Poor postures can still be attained in standing positions, particularly when weight distribution over the feet is not relatively even, and there is still the risk of laziness and slouching over the desk. So while they may not be the complete solution they are certainly a step in the right direction!

Why are we not introducing adjustable furniture into more workplaces and schools proactively rather than reactively?

Patrick Carbone is a Doctor of Physiotherapy and principal physiotherapist at Inertia Physiotherapy. He has worked across Australia, including roles with the Gold Coast Suns AFL team, and research roles with the NSW Police Tactial operations unit.

WWW.INERTIAPHYSIOTHERAPY.COM.AU

monitor at eye level

no slouching elbow at 90 o angle use an anti-fatigue mat

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take regular stretch breaks

don’t lean on your wrists watch your posture!


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wellbeing | family counsellor

Discipline DILEMM Discipline is a concept many parents have a love-hate relationship with. How do we discipline our child? Which method is most effective? Are we even allowed to discipline them anymore? It’s a hot topic, so we asked our resident family counsellor, Emma Holdsworth, for her advice on where to start when it comes to discipline.

F

irstly, let’s get something straight right off the starting blocks: discipline is not the same as punishment! The Latin origin of the word discipline is ‘to teach’. Disciplining your child means teaching them the skills you deem important for them to have as adults: responsible behaviour, kindness, empathy, tolerance, respect and the list goes on. In my practice I frequently hear this common refrain from parents of teens and tweens: “They used to listen to me and follow the rules, but now they won’t do anything I say!” It’s a frustrating predicament, but I’ve found these four techniques the most effective to support parents in implementing strategies for discipline, rules and consequences that teach their kids, rather than punish them.

1. Prioritise Empathy

Empathy is one of the most important traits required for forming relationships later in life, but it doesn’t always come naturally to humans. It needs to be taught and reinforced at every opportunity. The best way to teach empathy is soon after the moment when someone has been hurt, physically or emotionally. Once everyone has had a chance to calm down from the situation some good questions to ask your kids are: • • • •

What do you think it felt like for your sister when you...? What did it feel like for you after you did... to your friend? What were you feeling before you did...to me? What do you think you could do to help your brother feel... (better, less hurt, happier, like being your friend again, etc) • Would you like me to help you with that? When we just punish our kids for hurting others, they don’t really learn a whole lot of positive lessons about empathy. Often they just learn to feel shame, hide their feelings and sometimes just want revenge. If we teach them how to consider the feelings of others and find a way to improve the situation, they will be more likely to respond positively next time.

Empathy is one of the most important traits required for forming relationships later in life, but it doesn't always come naturally. 2. Pick your battles

As our kids get older it is important to give them more independence and control over their own decision making processes. They learn through interdependence and then independence.

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BY EMMA HOLDSWORTH, FAMILY COUNSELLOR


MA

wellbeing | family counsellor

When it comes to making rules think about these questions: • Is it really something that I need to worry about and enforce? • Is it hurting anyone or teaching my child a negative lesson? • Is there a way we can work it out together so my child learns some responsibility? Letting some things go is not about giving in or giving up, but about showing your child you trust them, teaching responsibility and providing opportunities for independence.

3. Positive Power Consequences

These are for the house rules you find yourself constantly nagging or yelling about. The things you know your kids can be responsible for, and that you have not been successful at consistently enforcing! Here is an example of enforcing a positive power consequence regarding use of a mobile phone. Sit down with your child and let them know you have noticed that putting the phone away for dinner time has become a bit of an issue, and you don’t want to have to keep asking. Explain the very clear expectation and ensure the consequence is related to the crime and not too big: “So from now on, if the phone is not put up on the shelf before dinner then it will be confiscated for the rest of the evening.” Ask the child to repeat back to you what the rule and consequence is. Let them know that it is their responsibility and their choice to follow the rule: “I am no longer going to remind you about this, so is there anything you need to do to make sure you remember? I am relying on you to choose to follow this rule so we don’t have to remove the phone.”

Always make sure you only ever dish out consequences you can enforce, your child will' learn from, and that don't go overboard If the rule is broken it is important to be consistent with the consequence, every time. There is no need to chastise them or go on about it though, all you need to say is “I’m sorry you were not able to make the right choice today, I know you will make a better choice tomorrow.” Then stop talking. It is important to say nothing more.

4. Currency and Consistency

Always make sure you only ever dish out consequences you can enforce, your child will learn from and that don’t go overboard. Confiscating a device from your child for weeks at a time or trying to ground a teen who is bigger than you may not be your best strategy. Work with things you can have some control over, things you provide or pay for. A lift to a friend’s place, pocket money or phone credit. What is your child’s currency? What is the best way to help them to learn to change their behaviour? What consequence will have them thinking about what they did rather than just hating on you?

autumn 2016

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wellbeing | from the practice

Season 'tis the

BY CAROLINE GRAYDON, HEALTHSENSE MEDICAL CENTRE

a new vaccine covering four flu strains, The Government National Immunisation Program for 2016 includes s a record number of 92,767 reported up from three last year. The introduction of this new vaccine follow from the 11,565 cases reported in 2010. cases of influenza in the first ten months of 2015, a significant jump

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE THE FLU?

WHY VACCINATE?

Influenza can lead to pneumonia (lung infection or inflammation) and other complications, and even death, particularly in vulnerable populations, such as: • people aged 65 years and over • pregnant women • young children • people with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease.

HOW IS THE FLU SPREAD?

All Australians are advised to present to their GP if they experience the following symptoms: • Sudden onset of fever over 38°C (though fever may be absent in the elderly)

PLU S

• Cough and/or other respiratory symptoms (eg. Shortness of breath)

PLUS

• One or more systemic symptoms (eg. fatigue, muscle soreness, headache)

Influenza can be spread when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes, spreading small droplets containing infectious agents into the air, which may be breathed in by those nearby. Infection may also be spread by contact with hands, tissues and other articles soiled by infected nose and throat discharges.

HOW CAN WE PREVENT IT SPREADING?

Good respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene is essential: • Cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue (not the hand) • Place used tissues directly into a bin • Wash hands with soap and running water, use an alcohol based hand rub • Wipe down all frequently touched surfaces regularly with a cleaning cloth dampened with detergent, or a large alcohol wipe Any individual experiencing the flu should be excluded from school, childcare, preschool or work until there has been no fever for 24 hours (without the use of paracetamol or similar)

CAN CHILDREN BE IMMUNISED?

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Go lde

Most people with uncomplicated influenza recover within a week, although the cough and fatigue may last longer.

Crouch Rd

nG

rov eR

d

Children can begin to be immunised against the flu from six months of age. All pregnant women are also encouraged to have the flu vaccination.

ree eT

On

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Hil

d


finance | children

Keep it Real BY JULIE TILLEY

How do you value something you can’t see, touch, or even smell? That’s the conundrum parents face raising children in an increasingly cashless society.

T

he rise and rise of internet banking, card, and contactless payments via the ever-intrusive smart phone means many children’s relationship with money is merely a number in a banking app. So how do we teach our children the value of money so they are equipped to manage their finances as they enter adulthood, and avoid the pitfalls that are littered throughout the all-consuming consumer landscape? Think hard. In fact, think cold, hard, cash! At every opportunity, get your child to interact with physical currency. Let’s rephrase that; at every relevant opportunity. You don’t want to see your nine-year-old at the dinner table rolling a 20 cent piece across their knuckles like a chip in the hands of a veteran poker player. When…okay, if, your child does their chores, pay them in cash. If they’re saving for something special, give them birthday money in cash. Then teach them what it means to budget, save, and most importantly, pay bills on time. The latter might not mean much to a young teenager

whose idea of debt is owing a friend a frozen coke. But, it won’t be long before they’ll be dealing with real bills, particularly the debt that causes more problems for young adults than any other - mobile phone bills. Many young people don’t understand what it means to enter into a contract with a telecommunications provider, nor what the consequences are of not paying their bill. Defaults are common, and they’ll come back to bite when seeking a personal loan for a car, or even finance for their first home. Understanding money from a young age will help your children become responsible adults. So, when it comes to money, put it in a language they’ll understand. Keep it real! Julie Tilley has worked in finance for ten years and is Branch Manager at Bendigo Bank Salisbury. As mum to 14 year old daughter Trinity, Julie is passionate about educating children about banking, finance and money.

WWW.BENDIGOBANK.COM.AU

Kick start your new year with more. If you’re a full-time student, Bendigo Bank’s Student Account can help you make smarter choices with your hard earned cash.

Less banky. More features: A great interest rate. No account maintaince fees. A Bendigo Blue Debit MasterCard™ Online banking. Jump onto our website today and open your student account online now. Visit bendigobank.com.au/student for more information.

bendigobank.com.au Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Internet banking available to student account holders aged 12 and over. Bendigo Blue Debit MasterCard™ available to student account holders aged 16 and over. You should consider whether this product is appropriate for you. Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL /Australian Credit Licence 237879. (S54271) (01/16)

autumn 2016

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finance | parents

busting financial advice myths BY DAVID RAGLESS

Do you have your finances 100 percent under control? Could you benefit from visiting a financial planner? For many, this seems like a daunting move. So we asked expert David Ragless to break down some of the common myths around seeking financial advice.

W

e all look for professional advice when it comes to building a home or diagnosing an illness. But according to research, between 60 and 80 per cent of Australians have never used a financial planner.* Many people don’t seek financial advice because they’re embarrassed about their financial situation, they don’t have enough money to invest or they think it’s only relevant for retirement planning. Everyone can benefit from visiting a financial planner whether they’re young or old, high or low income, single or married. Financial advice can help people save money, protect their loved ones and build wealth for the future. Five myths and facts about financial advice:

myth 1: “I don’t have enough money to invest” Fact: You don’t need a large lump sum to invest or a high disposable income. Everyone, regardless of their income or how much savings they have, can benefit from visiting a financial planner. You don’t need to be a high net worth individual to reap the rewards of advice. Financial planners can help with everything from budgeting and debt management, through to superannuation and retirement planning.

myth 2: “It’s only for people who are close to retirement” Fact: It’s never too early to seek advice. Many people don’t think it’s

necessary to visit a financial planner until they’re approaching retirement. While it’s never too late to seek advice, it’s also never too early. Young people who are just starting their working life can benefit greatly from financial advice. People who establish good money habits early on are less likely to develop financial problems later in life. Also, the earlier a person starts building wealth, the better. For instance, salary sacrificing into super from a young age can dramatically boost a person’s nest egg due to the effects of compound interest.

myth 3: “I don’t need it and I don’t have time” Fact: It’s one of the most important things you can do. Money issues are often delegated to the “too hard basket”, but there can be devastating consequences if people bury their heads in the sand. Most Australians don’t have adequate insurance to protect their loved ones in the event of loss of income. The big four are life insurance, income protection, total and permanent disability insurance (TPD) and trauma insurance. It’s also vital to have a will to ensure the right funds end up in the right hands at the right time, and an enduring power of attorney to enable someone to look after your affairs if you are incapable. People with kids also need to consider guardianship.

they are worried about the cost, but when you consider all the benefits of advice, it is good value for money. Planners sometimes offer a free initial consultation or discounted first fee so people don’t have to engage in the complete financial planning process straight away. People who want to spread out the cost can opt for scaled advice, which addresses single financial issues at a time, such as budgeting, insurance or superannuation.

myth 5: “I won’t get independent advice” Fact: It’s all about choosing the right planner. It’s important to take the time to find someone they trust. Look for a licensed planner who does not receive upfront commissions on super, managed funds or retirement products. Look for a planner who charges a fair fee for the advice process and a modest fee for implementation. Ask for recommendations from friends, colleagues and family, or contact the Financial Planning Association for a referral. Finances are very personal, so people need to look for someone who understands them and their situation.

myth 4: “Planner fees are too costly” Fact: You can’t afford not to have financial advice. Many people avoid visiting a financial planner because

*Australian Securities and Investment Commission, Report 224, Access to financial advice in Australia, December 2010 David Ragless is an Authorised Representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Ltd ABN 89 051 208 327, AFS Licence No. 232706 Any advice given is general only and has not taken into account your objectives, financial planning situation or needs. Because of this, before acting on any advice, you should consult a financial planner to consider how appropriate the advice is to your objectives, financial situation and needs. David Ragless Financial Services Group Pty Ltd ABN 66 103 202 491 trading as David Ragless Financial Services Group, is an authorized representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Limited, Australian Financial Services Licensee

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mum's the word | with Jenni Eyles

should you really share that? by jenni eyles

Are you the type of mum who treats social media like your own private photo album? Is there a photo of your child's bare backside, penis or first poo out there in cyberspace somewhere? You know where I'm going with this, don't you?

B

ack in the 70's when I was running around in a cloth nappy and getting busted painting my cot with my own excrement, the only cameras parents had were the bulky Kodak types. You know the ones (maybe you don't) where the films were 'highway robbery expensive' to have developed. Where you had to wait a whole week to get the prints, crossing your fingers for at least a few good snaps from the film of 24 shots. If you were blessed in the bank account department you most likely forked out for the film that allowed you to snap off 36 photos. I know. 36! Bloody hell, I know people these days who take at least that many photos just to get one good shot...of their coffee! We have this fancy technology that's racing forward and changing, faster than most of us can keep up. It's wonderful having technology and social media but are we thinking deeply enough about how we use it and what the ramifications could be in the future...for our children? My kids are seventeen and twenty, raised in the digital age. They've matured as technology has, and are very aware that 'what goes on social media stays on social media'. It's been drummed into them all throughout their school years. Sure you can delete a pic but it's always out there somewhere. You know this right? Teenagers aren't too forgiving when they discover you once posted nudey rudey shots of them running through the sprinkler, or photos of their first bra. I work in social media so I've seen it all! Kids crying, kids spewing, kids bleeding, naked kids, births, breastfeeding, tantrums... you get the picture. Before you get up in arms, I have nothing against breastfeeding... did it and loved it. These days I need to 'ask permission' of my boys before I post a pic or write about them, and 99 percent of the time I'm met with an eye roll and a resounding NO! Social media keeps people connected, but privacy is still an issue. It's really not that hard to search someone out and get a snapshot of their lives. Employers do it, as do friends, family and ‘frenemies’. My boys are private, they get embarrassed and they deserve to have choices, just as I have choices.

Sure I've posted some very personal stuff on social media, but I'm an adult and every post or photo was a choice... some more carefully considered than others. So what can you do when you snap a photo on your phone and your first instinct is to share it on social media? Well, take some time... stop and assess. Would you want to see a pic of yourself doing whatever it is your child is doing on social media? Maybe you should just print the photo and pop it in a photo album. Maybe email it to family? Maybe the photo actually needs to be deleted? Also remember that alongside privacy, social media can now impact our safety. Are you tagging or 'checking in' your location? It's a good idea to consider security on social media, don't tag your kids and remember 'checking in' is announcing where you live or even your regular routine. Be careful about snaps of your children in their school or work uniforms, there are some unsavoury types on social media and the more information you give out, the more tools you also give them. I'm not saying you can never post photos of your children, just consider the long term implications. A few years from now will your teenage or adult children have trust issues with you because you shared too much of them publicly today, before they were old enough to say ‘no’ for themselves?

Teenagers aren't too forgiving when they discover you once posted nudey rudey shots of them running through the sprinkler, or photos of their first bra.

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PUMP UP THE JAM! These are the songs that formed the soundtrack to our teenage years...

"Come as you are, as you were, as I want you to be" NIRVANA, Come as You Are (1991)

"But I still haven't found what I'm looking for." U2, Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For (1987)

Hit me with your best shot. Fire Away! PAT BENATAR, HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOT (1980)

"shout. shout. let it all out. these are the things i can do without." SHOUT, Tears for Fears (1985)

"Tonight we're gonna party like it's 1999." PRINCE, 1999 (1982)

"I want to know what love is. I want you to show me."

FOREIGNER, I Want to Know What Love Is (1984)

I want to lay you down in a bed of roses. For tonight I sleep on a bed of nails. BON JOVI, Bed of Roses (1992)

You may be right. I may be crazy. But it just may be a lunatic you're looking for.

BILLY JOEL, You May be Right (1980)

"Close your eyes, give me your hand

darling. Do you feel my heart beating?" THE BANGLES, Eternal Flame (1989)

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www.rollingstone.com

avery | top 20

She was a fast machine, she kept her motor clean, she was the best damn woman that I ever seen. AC/DC, You Shook Me All Night Long (1980)

"I don't want anybody else, when I think about you I touch myself" THE DIVINYLS, I Touch Myself (1991)

'Cause this is Thriller. Thriller Night. And no one's gonna save you from the beast about to strike. MICHAEL JACKSON, Thriller (1984)

I'm too sexy for my shirt. RIGHT SAID FRED (1991)

Exit light. Enter night. Take my hand, we're off to never never land. METALLICA, Enter Sandman (1991)

"Like a virgin, touched for the very first time." MADONNA, Like a Virgin (1984)

"We built this city. We built this city on rock and roll."

JEFFERSON STARSHIP, We Built This City (1985)

You gotta fight for your right to party! BEASTIE BOYS (You Gotta) Fight for Your Right to Party (1986) "It's been seven hours and fifteen days since you took your love away." SINEAD

O'CONNOR, Nothing Compares 2U (1990)

"I like big butts and I cannot lie" SIR MIXALOT, Baby got Back (1992)

"because your friends don't dance and if they don't dance then they're no friends of mine." MEN WITHOUT HATS, Safety Dance (1982)


HELPING YOU TO LIVE A

FULLER LIFE Life is a constant flow, and as your work, family and home adjusts to new patterns and change, we would like to encourage you to invest in your own wellbeing. Our professional and hands on approach can help you, whether it be through personalised physiotherapy, specialised classes or simply a friendly introduction to our range of professional services. Please come and visit us in our comfortable and convenient CBD location, and take the first step in becoming the best version of yourself that you can be.

We are a preferred provider for Bupa, Health Partners, Medibank Private and HCF. Level 6/108 King William St & within Goodlife Gymnasium, 81 King William St

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Classes for 2.5 - 17’s

the remainder of semester 1 2016

Come and try aerial silks, hoo p, trapeze, trampoline, teeterboard, acrobatics, hula, juggling, bounce & tricking, rola-bola, stilts, tight rope, han d stands and more!

Fun, exciting b irthday p a Book NOW for April ho

rties!

lidays

au ail circus@cirkidz.org. em , 35 57 46 83 on please call us tagram Facebook, Twitter & Ins on us For more information d Fin • e lin on le rg.au • Full time table availab .o dz ki existing enrollments. ir .c w w w t si vi dents only, not valid for stu or w Ne . ply ap s ion *Condit


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