Cairns Kids Magazine Sep/Oct 2009

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FREE

4/09/2009

Issue 16 September/October 2009

please take one

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star ting school benefits of swimming

children safe

extended

+ a-z business directory

n ew

keeping

healthy activities f o r p re p c h i l d r e n

FOR THE EXPECTING & EXPERIENCED PARENTS! www.cairnskidsmagazine.com.au

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CONTACT AND MAGAZINE DETAILS

Cairns Kids Magazine is published bimonthly.

ADDRESS PO Box 7948, Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia

EMAIL info@cairnskidsmagazine. com.au WEBSITE www. cairnskidsmagazine. com.au PHONE 0417 762 033

PUBLICATION MANAGER Jenny Griffiths

SALES MANAGER Bec Waqanikalou

editorial

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FROM THE CKM TEAM

Wow, where has the year gone?! With only a few months until Christmas it's time to start doing the Pre-Christmas shopping. But before Christmas gets here, there is another special day coming.... Father's Day! Sunday 6th September is the day Dads get cold toast and a cuppa in bed before a day of finger-painted pictures, home made pressies and 'socks & jocks'. We hope you get a few nice pressies and a lot of love and hugs.

This time of year is when we have to begin thinking about the New Year and with that the start of Prep or Kindergarten. It’s also when others start to think about going back to work or study and are looking to

ART DIRECTOR Karin Olofsson

SUB EDITOR Sandra McCormack COVER PHOTO Shaz Spannenburg PRINT Lotsa Printing

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enrol their littler ones in Day Care.

We hope this issue and its articles help.

Thank you to CleverPatch for some fantastic prizes this issue and also to Go n Jump for a Jumping Castle voucher. Remember ‘You have to be in it to win it.’

CKM are now sending out an email update once a month with info, what’s on and notices so if you would like to receive our CKM Updates, email to info@cairnskidsmagazine.com.au with your name and email address.

The team at CKM wish all those special men in our lives a Happy Father’s Day.

Enjoy your reading!

Kind Regards,

Bec Waqanikalou, Sales Manager email: bec@cairnskidsmagazine.com.au

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in this issue

2 4 6 8 10 12 16 18 20

21 22 24

Benefits of swimming What’s new Competition Moment with the midwife Family therapy Starting school Chat with a local Women’s wellbeing Catering for children with food allergies or intolerances Fitness tips with Simone Notice board Business directory

12 starting school

20 healthy activites for prep children

Disclaimer: The information and advice provided in this publication is believed reliable, but not guaranteed. Cairns Kids Magazine accepts no responsibility in respect of any products, services or goods which may be presented in the magazine, or any errors, omissions or mistakes in editorial references. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of the publisher.

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benefits of swimming Most parents are aware of the many benefits that swimming lessons can offer their children and many enrol their children in lessons from as young as four months of age.

However, Hayley Williams, director of C Me Swim School at Edge Hill and Paradise Palms says it is never too late to start.

Much has been published on the importance and value of baby or toddler learn-to-swim lessons.

C Me Swim director Hayley Williams says learn-toswim lessons are one of the most proactive things a parent can do for their child. Hayley says it has been proven that babies who swim from an early age are relaxed and confident in the water and often avoid the emotional stress that may come when starting later. “From as early as four months babies can safely and happily enjoy shared water experiences with their parents in a quality baby swim program,” Hayley, a mother of two young boys, says. “However, it is never too late to start lessons and now as our weather begins to warm | up it’s a great time to get those lessons started.”

Hayley says the sights and sounds of children swimming are one of the great pleasures of living in North Queensland. However, there’s an undeniable danger when you mix children and water.

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“Drowning is the greatest cause of accidental death in children under five in Australia,” she says. “On average one child drowns each week and many of these drownings occur under the supervision of one or more adults.” So while it is important to keep a watchful eye on children in and around water, it is equally important to make sure they are comfortable in the water and are respectful of its dangers. Hayley says quality learn-to-swim lessons will give children both the familiarity and the survival skills they need to become safer in the water. “The skills and behaviours they are taught in lessons by qualified, experienced teachers need constant reinforcement throughout the year. The

risks posed by drowning don’t go away during the cooler parts of the year, so neither should the lessons.” In addition to safety issues, physical activities such as swimming have been shown to improve many areas of a child’s development including academic performance, language, maths, fine and gross motor skills, confidence and coordination. Hayley says studies conducted in the USA demonstrated the highest grade point averages of all scholars and athletes tended to be with members of the swimming and water polo teams. Quality learn-to-swim lessons also offer a unique combination of social and physical interactions with the teacher, their classmates and the aquatic environment, Hayley says. “For some children before starting school, these relationships can become their primary social bonds outside of the home and immediate family.”

How long will these swimming lessons take?

Hayley says a realistic way to approach swimming lessons is as a long-term process. “Attending swim lessons as a regular part of a child’s weekly routine through their infant, preschool and early school years is a great plan to ensure proper development of their aquatic skills. “As your child grows, swimming skills will intensify and develop. There is no defined end point to the process. You are embarking on a journey that begins with water confidence and will lead to respect for water safety and a love of swimming that will remain with them for life!” Hayley urges parents to start the journey now by contacting the nearest swim school for lesson information today.

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what’s new

CALYPSOKIDS’ NEW GALLERY Calypsokids is proud to announce the opening of its new gallery in town. Situated at the Focus Reef Imagery Centre, operated by parent company Calypso Productions and Island Photography, the gallery showcases recent works, which will inspire and excite.

Located next door to the Pier Market Place on the ground floor of the Reef Fleet Terminal,

there is ample parking nearby. Kids are welcome while you select your underwater photos taken during your pool photo session. So whether you want a few prints, or a work of art on canvas, we have something for all budgets. Calypsokids’ gallery is open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.

For more info visit www.calypsokids.com.au or phone 4041 5581.

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Baby BeeHinds modern cloth nappies make cloth nappying your baby easy! Times have changed...no folding, no soaking, no pins...just nappies that work!

Heaps of funky fabrics that mean quality, reliability and of course, fashion! Don’t throw your money in the bin- Baby BeeHinds can save you up to $2000 per child (compared to disposables) AND you can do your bit to lessen the load on our environment.

Visit www.babybeehinds.com.au to shop online or view our list of consultants who can come to you and show you the range in person!

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competition win a jumping castle hire for your party!

For your chance to win a 2 hour free jumping castle hire of any choice of jumping castle and day of the week and 1 prize bag for your birthday party, simply send us your best birthday party tips! (Subject to availability- prize valid for 6 months.)

Visit www.gonjump.com.au or phone 4031 4131 to find out more about jumping castle hire, face painting and fairy floss. please send your birthday top tip and contact details by 31st of October 2009 to: postal: Cairns Kids Magazine, PO Box 7948, Cairns, QLD 4870 or email: info@cairnskidsmagazine.com.au

WIN a CleverPatch Collage Pack

CleverPatch is Australia’s newest craft specialty store. It was established to help busy parents and creative people who find it hard to source quality craft items at affordable prices. From beautiful papers, glitter glues, ribbon packs, beautiful rhinestones, jewellery making items to all the card making materials you could ever want – CleverPatch has everything you are after.

For all your craft needs visit their huge online store at www.cleverpatch.com.au – there are thousands of products to solve all your art and craft needs. The stylists at CleverPatch have spent months working on their Christmas Craft range to help you get ready for the festive season.

They have hundreds of free activities and ideas so you will find everything you need to get ready for Christmas.

For further info email info@cleverpatch.com.au or phone 1300 836 522.

To help celebrate the launch of CleverPatch we have two great CleverPatch Collage Packs valued at over $65.00 each and 20 copies of their great new Christmas Catalogue to give away.

To win, simply send us your best crafting tips, name and contact details to email: info@cairnskidsmagazine.com.au or postal: PO Box 7948, Cairns, QLD 4870

Congratulations to the lucky winners in the July/Aug 2009 issue:

Decor by Design wall decals: Belinda Hilton - Bentley Park Every Bloomin’ Thing garden consultation: Lea Reeves - Cairns

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moment with the midwife

starting school

Every parent wants their child to remember their first day of school as a happy and exciting one. It's a major step for both your young son or daughter and also for you as parents, and I'm sure there will be a few tears shed, especially for the parents as they see their child setting out on the next chapter of their life. So what can you do to ensure a healthy start for school?

Immunising your child against highly contagious diseases will also give your child a healthy start for school. Chickenpox immunisation would have been offered to your child at around 18 months and whilst it may only be viewed as a minor childhood illness, some children can be very sick and may require admission to hospital. Although the vaccine works pretty well, some kids who are immunised

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may still get chickenpox but will experience milder symptoms. Chickenpox causes an itchy, spotty rash which can appear all over the body. The rash then develops into blisters which when popped leave open sores, which finally crust over and become dry brown scabs. Children should stay away from school until they are no longer infectious which is when all the blisters have scabbed over.

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it's important to develop healthy routines and habits:

Start the day with breakfast is very important, mornings can be busy, but cereal and toast are quick and easy to prepare.

Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet and eat together.

Get a good night's sleep. Most four year olds need between 10-12 hours of sleep each night.

Help them to feel good about themselves, encourage and praise them for things they have done well and also for trying new things.

Teach good hand hygiene especially after eating, touching eyes, nose and mouth and going to the toilet.

Teach kids to cover sneezes and coughs with a tissue or to bend an elbow and sneeze into the corner.

Stay active.

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Around their fourth birthday children will also be offered a measles, mumps and rubella booster (MMR) and a diptheria, tetanus, polio and whooping cough booster. Whilst these diseases are rare they are highly contagious and can cause serious sometimes fatal complications.

No parent enjoys taking their child to the doctors to be immunised, but I believe immunisation is the best protection against these potentially life threatening diseases.

Impetigo or school sores are common skin infections characterised by collections of small crusting blisters. Children should stay at home until treatment, usually antibiotics, has commenced and sores on exposed areas are covered with a waterproof dressing.

Starting school is a really special event in a child's life, so let’s do everything you can to make it a healthy start!

Moment with the midwife is supplied

by Draper Street Family Medical, which provides a wide range of specialised postnatal services, including breast feeding support & advice, settling techniques, coping with the “Baby Blues”, immunisations, contraceptive advice & “pramercise classes”.

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family therapy - keeping children safe For most parents their child’s safety and wellbeing is everything. While pregnant, expectant parent often focus on learning about the developing baby through all forms of media. Expectant parents gather up a collection of day to day needs the infant will require including baby safe car capsules, baby car seats, strollers and so on and often ensure that the purchases fit within the Australian quality standards.

Expectant parents consider their anticipated feeding style and how they plan to support their child’s social, emotional, physical and spiritual development during their early years. An important part of a child’s social and emotional development also includes protective behaviours education.

Research discussed by Bravehearts (www.bravehearts.org.au) suggests one out of every three girls and one in every six boys in Australia has been the victim of sexual assault.

The research conducted reports that 150,000 children have been sexually assaulted before their 17th birthday. These figures are horrifying to say the least.

Children who are abused may experience significant trauma which includes nightmares, serious behavioural problems and significant mental health concerns such as post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and may lead to some types of personality disorders. The risks to children who have experienced sexual abuse also include developmental, educational and social problems.

Contact the Police or child protection authorities to report your concerns.

Teaching our children protective behaviours commences from birth. Parents changing and bathing their newborn is when respectful body touch commences and carries through until the child is taught to clean their own body independently. Many adults have grown up using incorrect names for genitals, which could potentially to place a child at risk. Using the correct names for all body parts teaches children appropriate protective language and can contribute to keeping your child safer during their developing years.

Current research and child-focused literature supports families using appropriate language and discussions about sexual development and protective behaviours.

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There are several excellent resources available to assist parents to teach their children about protective behaviours and these include books such as “Everyone Has a Bottom”, “No No the Seal”, “Rosy and Jack” and the Bravehearts DVD “Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure”. Contact Birdwing Therapies or Bravehearts for details of suppliers.

The following websites have information and resources to support you in educating your child. >> >> >> >> >> >>

www.bravehearts.org.au www.birdwingtherapies.com.au www.napcan.org.au www.abusedchildtrust.com.au www.childhood.org.au www.kidspot.com.au

Possible indicators of child sexual abuse may include:

• unexpected sexual knowledge for developmental age • bed wetting or soiling after being toilet trained • serious headaches or stomach pains • nightmares, anxious or withdrawn behaviour • sexualised behaviours and stories or drawings • unexplained aggressive or destructive behaviours • displays of cruelty towards pets • fear around particular persons or places

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everyone has a bottom We have 3 copies of 'Everyone has a bottom' from Family Planning Qld to give away.

This wonderful book teaches young children self protection in a style that is positive and fun. The first 3 people to send their name and contacts to info@cairnskidsmagazine.com.au will receive a copy. If you would like to purchase a copy you can visit: www.fpq.com.au

Birdwing Therapies will be running Protective Behaviours programs for children from five to seven years of age and eight to ten years of age. The program will focus on feelings, intuition, warning signs and developing personal plans to help promote your child’s safety.

Parents will also be provided with resource packs to assist you to support your child’s ongoing education about protective behaviours.

Keeping children safe is up to all of us. Our four week program costs $185 per child.

Family therapy is supplied by Birdwing Therapies which provides parenting and children’s programs. Contact Keran for further info on phone: 4041 3504 or visit www.birdwingtherapies.com.au

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sta rtin g l o o h sc

School days… Most adults look back on our formative education in primary and high school with a smile on our face. And now it’s time for your son or daughter to embark on the journey…

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starting

School is a place where your child will spend at least the next decade, preparing themselves for independence and employment in the big world beyond.

The first day of school can appear to be one of the most monumental and daunting milestones in a young child’s life. The dawning of the first school day can be eagerly waited or dreaded, even for the parents. How will my child cope without me; will they be lonely; will they remember where the toilet is; will they be cared for?

Before you know it the calendar will be dotted with school events, the school terms will come and go, there will be an influx of birthday party invitations and the dining table will drown under a sea of homework, library books and lunch boxes.

There’s no doubt about it, starting school requires a fair bit of planning, from choosing the school, obtaining uniforms and books and prepping your child.

Here are a few words from Cairns Kids Magazine advertisers to help you on your way…

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Australian Scholarships Group How do you balance encouraging your child’s natural curiosity while instilling good behaviour and discipline? Everyday Learning About Children’s Behaviour, written for parents of babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers offered by the Australian Scholarships Group (ASG), helps you discover how to strike the perfect behavioural balance.

ASG, an independent, not-for-profit friendly society established in 1974, is dedicated to helping parents maximise the educational opportunities available to their children.

To request your free copy of this book visit www.lovetolearn.com.au

Boxy Design

Boxy Design’s backpack, wrapper-free lunch box, drink bottle and freezer gel pack make packing lunches and sending kids off to school, kinder or child care easier for both parents and kids.

Help the environment by not using any wrappers and buying in bulk. This will also save you money.

Schools can also buy Boxy Design backpacks in bulk at wholesale prices and have the school logo printed on them. This also makes a great fundraiser. To find out more visit: www.boxydesign.com.au

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Westcourt Early Childhood Learning Centre The staff at Westcourt Early Childhood Learning Centre believe children shape our future society and that the experiences shared in the early years of life greatly impact on their behaviour.

It is vital that children are valued for their individuality and unique personalities.

The centre is family owned and under new management with a fabulous new team of staff. The centre has undergone a face lift with renovations inside and out. It caters for children from 15 months to six years, and also offers before and after school care. The centre operates from 6.30 am to 6.30pm.

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Catholic Education Services The development of gifted and talented students in the Cairns Diocese will be further enhanced with the formation of a Gifted and Talented Education Reference Group in June this year.

The Reference Group will promote Gifted and Talented Education throughout the Diocese’s Catholic Schools, and further support teachers and parents of students who are identified as gifted and talented.

Coordinator of the group, Catholic Education Services’ Daniela Rizzato, said it was exciting to see the interest and support from teachers and administrators throughout the Diocese for Gifted and Talented Education.

The next meeting of the Reference Group will be Tuesday 15 September 2009. If you would like further information or would like to contribute to the next meeting, please contact your local Catholic school or email Daniela at drizzato@cns.catholic.edu.au.

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make your kids’ school lunches a special treat Farfalle Bowtie Pasta

photography by Dean Cambray, recipe from the book “Lunch box”

1 cup 1/4 cup 1/4 cup 1/2 1/4 cup

farfalle pasta snowpeas cut into strips of fresh peas tomato, diced chopped chives and basil

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Dressing 1 tbsp olive oil 1/2 tsp lemon juice salt and pepper

Cook Pasta according to directions on packet.

In the last minute add snowpeas and peas.

Drain and cool under water. Add chopped tomato and herbs.

Stir in the dressing of olive oil, lemon juice and salt and pepper.

The Chef Says... you can add a small tin of tuna or salmon to this colorful pasta dish.

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CHAT WITH A LOCAL!

Maintaining some type of daily routine is just as important for young children as it is for babies and toddlers, says Cairns Kids Magazine reader Kathy Treacy. A born and bred Cairns local, Kathy lives in Earlville with her partner Jason Laska and their sons Harrison Brett, aged five, and Christian Mark, aged three.

Where are you and your partner from?

I was born in Cairns and Jason in Mareeba.

What do you like about raising your children in Cairns?

We love the weather and the lifestyle and the year round availability of swimming and sports etc.

Was having children like you thought it would be?

It involved a many more sacrifices than we had thought, but it definitely seems to get easier as they get older.

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Do your children’s names have a special meaning and what made you choose them?

Both boys have special middle names – they are named after Jason’s brother and father, both of whom have passed away.

Are you a full time parent or is are your children in some sort of care?

I work two days a week so Christian goes to day care and Harrison is in his first year of school.

What is your best sleeping tip?

Be fairly strict with routine – bath, books and bed.

What does a normal day look like in your family?

It is bedlam - especially in the mornings. Very early and very noisy. We try and do something outdoors after school – playground, park or trampoline.

Are your children taking part in any activities?

Harrison has started Auskick and Christian is doing Kindergym.

What is your family’s favourite activity?

Swimming in our pool.

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Does your family have a favourite spot in Cairns?

The beaches are always a favourite. The boys now have their own fishing rods so we go fishing at Trinity Beach.

How do you keep your children busy on rainy day?

They love to watch Ben 10.

What are your children’s favourite games?

Jigsaw puzzles and card games.

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What are your children’s favourite foods?

Pasta, and meat of any kind.

What is the most memorable moment with your children?

Taking them to Dreamworld in January.

Are you planning to have more children?

A little girl would be nice but probably not.

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Words of wisdom to expecting parents…

Go to the movies and out for dinner while you can!

What words of wisdom do you have for parents with children heading off to prep for the first time in 2010?

My advice would be to get involved with all their school activities, you'll both have heaps of fun!

What chemicals are you feeding your family today?

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women’s wellbeing

maternal separation anxiety The first day of school is an anxious time for both mothers and their children.

Mothers often experience mixed feelings and thoughts about their child attending school. They may worry about how their child will cope without them and be concerned about what kind of experience their child will have at school.

Often, mothers have spent much time in raising their child, nurturing them, protecting them and simply spending time with them. Because of this, some mothers may feel that they will miss their child when they go to school and worry about how they themselves will cope with this separation from their child. It is normal for mothers to worry about their child’s health, feelings and well-being, especially when they are not by their side.

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However, anxiety becomes a problem when a mother becomes plagued by anxious thoughts and she is unable to stop wondering if her child is safe or happy. If separating from your child becomes a fearful situation, you may be experiencing maternal separation anxiety.

Maternal separation anxiety is what mothers experience when they have worries that something bad will happen to their child if they are separated from them. For example, a mother may worry that their child will not be safe at school and worry that their child may be harmed in some way. Other worries may include fears that their child may have a negative experience of school such as not making any friends, feeling alone or having difficulty with classroom tasks.

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Here are some helpful reminders to relieve separation anxiety when your child starts their first day of school:

FAMILIARISE: Prepare for the event.

Familiarise yourself and your child with the school such as finding out where the classroom, toilet and playgrounds are.

Familiarise yourself on the school’s policy regarding safety and accidents. Introduce yourself and your child to the staff.

REMEMBER: Remember that school is meant to be a safe place. At times accidents happen and this is part of growing up but in general, school is a safe place to be.

RATIONALISE: The school experience contains both positive and negative experiences. It is important for children to experience both in order to learn how to cope with difficult situations. This builds your child’s self-confidence.

ROLE MODEL: Reducing your own anxiety about school is important in reducing your child’s anxiety about school.

KEEP BUSY: On the first day of school, have something planned to do so that it will distract you from worrying. For example, have coffee with a friend, do the shopping or go to work.

FOCUS: Focus on the child’s positive experience of school not only the negative ones.

TALK: Talk to other mothers about how they are feeling. You may find that they are experiencing similar feelings and you can support one another.

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Maternal separation anxiety about the first day at school can also arise from having negative views about this developmental milestone. For example, the first day of school may be seen as an indicator that the child is growing up and won’t need as much help from their mother anymore, or the mother may feel as though she no longer has her little baby. Viewing school as a negative experience or predicting that it will be a negative experience contributes to maternal separation anxiety.

It is important to remember that anxiety in parents contributes to anxiety in children. If a child’s parent is overly anxious about school, then their child may also become fearful of the school environment.

If maternal separation anxiety is a concern for you, contact Charlene at Women’s Psychological Health on 4031 8095.

Women’s wellbeing is supplied by Charlene Halfhyde from Women’s Psychological Health. Charlene can be contacted on 4031 8095 for individual or group therapy for women aged 16 and above

Charlene Halfhyde Psychologist

Individual and group therapy for women aged 16 and above Medicare Rebate Available Pregnancy Support Counselling Bulk Billed

2/325 Sheridan St, Cairns ph: 4031 8095 email: wphealth@bigpond.com

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catering for children with food allergies or intolerances

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Have you ever wondered why some children don’t attend your child’s birthday party?

It may be because the child has an allergy or intolerance to food and the parent doesn’t wish to say anything.

Statistics shows 19.6% of Australian children suffer from a food allergy. A food allergy is an immune system response. It occurs when the body mistakes an ingredient in food, usually a protein, as being harmful and creates a defense system (antibodies) to fight it. Allergy symptoms develop when the antibodies are battling the "invading" food. The most common food allergies are peanuts, tree nuts (such as walnuts, pecans and almonds), fish and shellfish, milk, eggs, soy and diary products and wheat.

Therefore when planning a party or even if your children’s friends come over to play, try to obtain foods that are free from preservatives, artificial colours and flavourings.

Unfortunately, the term ‘food intolerance’ is often confused and interchanged with the term ‘food allergy’, as the symptoms are often similar.

However, the difference between the two lies in the cause. Unlike food allergy, food intolerance does not involve an immune system response.

Food intolerance is a digestive system response.

It occurs when something in a food irritates a person's digestive system or when a person is unable to properly digest or breakdown, the food.

Sensitivity to chemicals in our foods can include additives, preservatives and flavors. But food allergies or intolerances should not hold anyone back, especially kids.

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It is always best to communicate with parents in advance to be prepared as best you can.

If a child who is invited does have an allergy, ask the parent for any delicious treat ideas they may have themselves.

There are many safe and delicious alternatives and your friends and children will learn that allergy-free foods are tasty too.

Many safe ingredients are found at your local supermarket. Beware of genetically modified foods which are becoming more prevalent in the food chain. Read labels carefully and don’t be deceived.

Sometimes what the front of the label states is different to what is in the ingredients. Some good food ideas can include muffin pizzas, mini pasties, fruit dips, rock melon fruit basket, veggie platters, frozen bananas, and of course don’t forget the gluten free fairy cakes. Keep food familiar and bitesized for little tummies. If you want to keep things simple, with minimal preparation then go for a barbecue. Kids love sausage sizzles. Gluten-free sausages are available from some butchers or try gluten-free chicken or beef kebabs and try adding add some pineapple or capsicum to them. Chicken nibbles are delicious too - just add your own marinade and cook on the barbecue. Even if your party consists of children who do not have any allergies or intolerances, try being health-conscious and add colourful nutritious summer fruits and vegetables.

As a working mother of a nine-month-old baby I am very conscious of what everyday food goes into my son’s mouth, as children can be vulnerable to compounds that enter their bodies through their food, and some foods may cause adverse effects.

So have fun organising your next birthday party or play date and remember, healthy choices mean healthy living.

“Catering for children with food allergies or intolerances” is supplied by gonjump.com.au inflatable jumping castle and slide hire. They supply inflatables, face painting and fairy floss for children’s birthdays. Fun is just a phone call away on 4031 4131 or visit www.gonjump.com.au

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fitness tips with Simone

healthy activities for prep children For prep aged children physical activity is a must. Getting active will give your youngster a head start for participating in physical activity in the future and create healthy lifestyle habits in them that will hopefully last a lifetime.

For prep aged children it is important to keep the activity based around general movement patterns and establishing key fundamental techniques.

Running, skipping, hopping, crawling, climbing, jumping and throwing are great activities that set up globalised movement patterns that enhance natural development skills and create a great platform for developing specialised movement patterns in the future when specific sports skills become more important. There are also huge benefits to be gained from group activities, as children learning to manage themselves in new situations where as parents our influence is reduced.

Prep children can easily do a range of individual activities with parental supervision, such as walking to school, riding a push bike (with training wheels of course!), throwing and catching a ball, or taking on any climbing frame. However, there are additional benefits to be gained from getting active in a group, including learning to socialise and quite simply learning how to learn from each other. So, as your children make new friends in their expanding world team up with other parents and get into the group thing.

The number one rule when doing anything with these youngsters is to KEEP IT FUN!

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And of course the activities should provide your children with the opportunity to succeed and create a positive association with exercise. Include the use of numbers and shapes to enhance other areas of learning too. For example, run between the ends of the yard four times and then jump up and down for 10. Try creating obstacle courses or tabloids with different activities, doing relays that move toys from one end of the yard to the other, or simply races of any kind – crawling, skipping, running. Of course, always have balls available to catch and throw, roll, bounce etc.

Prep age is fun and with a little imagination and good planning you can enhance your child’s physical development and have some fun at the same time.

Simone is a Personal Trainer, Pilates Coach & Internationally Certified Body Balance Instructor.

Simone takes classes, including MUMBALATES. Contact Simone on 0411 027 883 or simkay1@bigpond.net.au.

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notice board

P LAY G R O U P S

LITTLE SQUIRTS PLAYGROUP Meet Wednesdays Venue: Community Church Hall, Hardy Road Time: 9.30am – 11.30am We have children from newborns through to 5 years olds. We have monthly outings, a great network of parents and would love to have new families join our weekly session.

Contact Sheree on 4045 2783

CAIRNS SOUTH SINGLE PARENTS Meet other single parents, a no pressure easy way to meet other single parent families, fun family activities, Parents-only events to meet new friends and have an opportunity to be more than a parent.

Phone Vicki on 0413 094 950 or log on to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ cairnssouthsingleparents/

NORTHERN BEACHES PLAYTIME Marlin Coast Neighbourhood Centre runs a playtime Mondays 10.00am – 12 noon.

Cost is $4 per family, which covers morning tea.

Bookings are not necessary.

Phone 4038 1644

SPUNKY MONKEYS PLAYGROUP At Bentley Park has vacancies for families and carers with children aged 0-5.

Mondays 9.30am – 11.30am.

Venue: Community Church Hall, Hardy Road Phone 0424 735 692

GORDONVALE PLAYGROUP Meets Mondays 9.30am – 11.30am at the Gordonvale Community Kindergarten Moller Street Gordonvale.

For more info phone 4056 1638

FAR NORTH QLD MULTIPLE BIRTH ASSOCIATION INC. For information on twins, triplets, multiple birth or social gatherings with other parents.

Phone 0439 797 221 Email fnqmba@yahoo.com.au

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SANDS (Stillbirth & Neonatal death support including miscarriage) SANDS support groups are casual gatherings for all family members who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. Meetings are held on the 2nd Thursday of each month 10am - 12pm Marlin Coast Neighbourhood Centre,45 Cumberland Ave, Smithfield Contact Nerissa 4098 3089 or Kelly 4033 7917

CAIRNS PLAYCONNECT PLAYGROUP FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN WITH AUTISM Cairns families who have young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) behaviours, with or without a diagnosis, are meeting at St Margaret’s Anglican Church Hall at 230 Aumuller St, Cairns. Will meet every Thursday, 9.30am – 11.30am. Contact Playgroup Queensland (toll free) on 1800 171 882 or email info@playgroupqld.com.au HUNGRY MUMMY'S - A TIME FOR HOT MUMMY'S TO MEET AND EAT! Held every Tuesday at 12pm for venue details please call Nicole if interested as venue can change! Any mums welcome!

For more info and venue phone Nicole 0435 193 346 or email dalla888@live.com

THE TREEHOUSE It’s all about getting moms and babies to be creative. We do lots of arty stuff, relax, listen to music etc. We meet every Thursday from 2.30pm - 4.30pm in Machans Beach Community Hall on Tucker Street.

Contact Rossi 0432 154 716 or Ela 0400 484 221

INTERESTED IN GERMAN PLAYGROUP? Anyone who would be interested to join a German playgroup or just meet other German speaking babies, toddlers and parents please contact Sabbi: 4032 5398 or 0415 592 457 or email Sabbisunshine@aol.com

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notice board & business directory

FOR SALE

Fisher-Price Take-Along Electric Swing: very good working condition $45.

Avent Express Electric Bottle Warmer: very good working condition. Warms quickly and evenly, with box and instructions $30. phone Renae 0433 770 749 Cairns Kids Magazine is offering FREE private listings on the Notice Board for events, notices and buy & sell. Please post or email us by the 10th of the month prior, for publication in the next issue. Please indicate your preferred heading: what’s on, playgroups, for sale or wanted to buy. Postal: Notice Board, PO Box 7948, Cairns, QLD 4870 Email: noticeboard@cairnskidsmagazine.com.au

business directory BABY SHOPS/SUPPLIES

Grobag Egg – nightlight and room thermometer 2 in 1. Allows you to ensure your baby’s room is a comfortable sleeping temperature, digital readout is visible from distance and egg colour changes with different temperature ranges. Awarded 2006 nursery product of the year. As new $50 (RRP $69.95), Hug-a-bub baby carrier and sling, navy/red soft cotton wrap, wear you baby close to you, supported and safe, with you hands free! Excellent condition $60 (RRP$120) phone Leesa 4032 2709 or 0417 614 103

Quinny Buzz 3-wheel stroller, black. Birth to 12kg. Accessories included. Good Condition. Retails for $1200, selling for $300. phone Alanah 0434 839 358

A-Z

Atherton Juniors ph: 07 40912 732, 32 Main Street, Atherton Baby Barn ph: 07 4051 4900, 63 Anderson Street, Manunda Baby Trading Post ph: 07 4033 1227, Southside Shopping Centre

Cairns Juniors ph: 07 4045 4044, 183 Bruce Highway, Edmonton Cocoboo Kids Boutique ph: 07 4038 3590, Smithfield Shopping Centre Hire for Baby ph: 0423 959 648, www.hireforbaby.com.au Hot Mummies ph: 07 4051 5676, 103 Mulgrave Road, Cairns Little Stars for Little People ph: 07 4051 7633, Showgrounds Shopping Centre The Green House Environment Shop ph: 07 4031 8787, 55 Spence Street, Cairns Toys “R” Us ph: 07 4031 1763, 157 Mulgrave Road, Cairns Toyworld ph: 07 4054 2212, 560 Mulgrave Road, Cairns

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES

Cairns Civic Theatre ticket link ph: 07 4031 9555 Crystal Cascades Horse Park ph: 07 4039 3143, Lot 626 Intake Road, Redlynch Go Bowling ph: 07 4053 3497, www.gobowling.com.au Squeekers ph: 07 4055 4479, 179 Bruce Highway, Edmonton CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT/ PARTIES

Nikki the Clown ph: 07 4057 8019 email: nikki@nikkitheclown.com www.nikkitheclown.com Children’s party entertainer - puppet show, games, music, face painting. Different themes available!

Balloons Etc ph: 07 4054 6466, 506a Mulgrave Road, Earlville Cheeky Monkey Club ph: 1300 880 669, www.cheekymonkeyclub.com.au Flip Ripley ph: 07 4039 0622, www.flipripley.com Gift of the Gab Party Shop ph: 07 4038 3939, www.giftofthegab.com.au

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A-Z

CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT/PARTIES

Go n Jump Jumping Castle & Slide Hire ph: 07 4031 4131, www.gonjump.com.au Jumping Jim’s Castle Hire ph: 0418 779 608, www.jumpingjims.com.au Ponies 4 Parties ph: 0407 470 662, www.ponies4parties.com.au Sumphun Kidzcraft ph: 0410 041 633, susteve@aapt.net.au The Confectionery and Party Shop ph: 07 4051 0486, www.partyshop.com.au COMMUNITY SERVICES

Child Support Agency ph: 13 12 72, 480 Mulgrave Road, Earlville Community Health Centre 277 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt, ph: 07 4052 9333 16 Danbulan Street, Smithfield, ph: 07 4038 9900 10-12 Roberts Road, Edmonton, ph: 07 4045 9900 Relationships Australia ph: 1300 364 277, 182 Gatton Street, Manunda Family Assistance Office ph: 13 61 50, 480 Mulgrave Road, Earlville SANDS - Infant Loss Support ph: 07 4098 3089, 45 Cumberland Ave, Smithfield HEALTH & WELLBEING

Mum’s Nails & Beauty Studio ph: 0406 694 296 11 Tangenelli Close, City View • Kids welcome • Pamper Packs from $50 • Acrylic Nail $40 • Wax Packs from $30 • Qualified Beauty Therapist, 15 years of experience

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1300 Smiles ph: 1300 764 537, Cairns Central & Smithfield Centres Beauty Spa Club International Ph: 1300 SPA CLUB, shambhala@beautyspaclubint.com Birdwing Therapies ph: 07 4041 3504, www.birdwingtherapies.com.au Draper Street Family Medical ph: 07 4051 1074, 443 Draper Street, Paramatta Park Merluna Massage & Herbal Health ph: 07 4033 7887, Southside Shopping Centre MumMe family hair studio ph: 0439 300 970, www.mummefamilyhair.com.au Mumbalates ph: 0411 027 883, simkay1@bigpond.net.au Specialist Kinesiologists ph: 0418 432 581, dsdavies8@bigpond.com Women’s Psychological Health ph: 07 4031 8095, 2/325 Sheridan Street, Cairns

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ONLINE GIFTS/PRODUCTS

Baby Rock, comfy carry sling ph: 0417 601 113, www.babyrock.com.au Belly of Love ph: 0408 077 185, www.bellyoflove.com Cushie Tushies ph: 0424 247 675, www.cushietushies.com.au earthmotherchild.com www.earthmotherchild.com Nurture Nappies ph: 07 4098 3778, www.nurturenappies.com.au ONEgroup - Certified Organic Products ph: 0412 139 938, ww.wenzorganics.mionegroup.com Usana Health Sciences "Nutrionals you can Trust" Ph: 0414 251208, www.floramark.usana.com PARENT/CHILD ACTIVITIES

Cairns GymbaROO ph: 07 4041 4140 Kindermusik with Nicole phone: 07 4034 2219 or 0418 772 258 KinderGym ph: 07 4055 1711, www.bvgc.asn.au PHOTOGRAPHERS

Barry Daly Photography ph: 07 4058 1662, www.barrydaly.com.au Calypso Kids ph: 07 4041 5581, www.calypsokids.com.au Cheeky Monkey Photography ph: 0421 150 717, www.cheekymonkeyphotos.com.au Shaz Spannenburg Digital Images ph: 07 4039 0442, www.digitalimages.com.au SWIM SCHOOLS

C-Me Swim ph: 07 4053 2549, 70 Russell Street, Edge Hill Essential Skills Swim School ph: 07 4045 2782, 32 Fishburn Street, Bentley Park Janet Evans Swim School ph: 07 4053 7935, 110 Pease Street, Edge Hill Marlin Coast Swimming ph: 07 4057 7720, Leisure Park Road, Smithfield Waterwise Aquatic Centre ph: 07 4039 1078, 151 Harvey Road, Redlynch MISCELLANEOUS

Cairns Nannies ph: 07 4054 7474, www.cairnsnannies.com.au Catholic Education ph: 07 4050 9700, www.ceo.cairns.catholic.edu.au

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business directory

Marlin Coast Family Day Care phone: 07 4057 9977 email: mcfdc@bigpond.com Government approved.

Child care fee relief available.

limited vacancies available for affordable & flexible homecare for your child

Photography by Dominic Chaplin PINE CREEK PICTURES 0419 028 077 www.pinecreekpictures.com.au Studio: 247 McLeod Street

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