Offspring Perth Winter 2014 issue by Offspring Magazine

Winter 2014

Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite family lifestyle magazine

10 Superfoods for your family!

Travel:

tips for flying with kids

Motherhood & music with Kasey Chambers

EDUCATION SPECIAL FEATURE

Real life Young mother has preventative double mastectomy

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contents

winter

EDITOR’S NOTE

THE CONTRIBUTORS

PLAY TIME We’ve found some stylish and functional toys for your child.

WINTER SNUGGLES Pyjamas have never been more stylish and cute!

SLEEP LIKE A BABY Quality baby furniture & gorgeous décor make for a beautiful sleeping space for you baby.

FEATURE STORY 18

A LIFE LESS ORDINARY A true professional, Kasey Chambers appears to maintain normalcy in a life that is anything but.

18 36

FUNNY MUMMY 26

WINTER IS COMING Ari discusses the challenges of winter with kids.

STYLE ON THE STREET Mums-on-the-go, be inspired by the street and add detail to everyday staples.

REAL LIFE 30 THE LUCKY ONE Krystal Barter opens up to Claire Armstrong about her life altering preventative double mastectomy.

STEM CELL SAVIOUR Brother saves life with his cord blood stem cells, a miracle treatment that’s available now to all new parents.

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30 CELEBRITY BABY 36

SINGLE CELEBRITY SUCCESS We hear from five Celebrity parents on being single, dating and raising their kids.

BUSINESS MUM 40

A MOTHER OF INVENTION Mumpreneur Mel Seears shares with Offspring how she developed an innovative product into a sustainable business she can work from home.

INTERNET PICKS 42

Our selection of websites offering great products for your family.

DAD’S WORD 44

MAN ABOUT THE HOUSE Gary explores whether time off at home can ever been too much of a good thing.

perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

SPECIAL FEATURE 46

MATERNITY CARE Working out where to give birth to your baby is a big decision. Here are some things to consider when deciding on the right maternity care for you and your baby.

FOOD AND NUTRITION 77

INTERIOR DESIGN 58

WINTER WARMTH Check out some bedroom décor suggestions for your child to beat the winter blues.

REAL LIFE 60

TWICE THE TRAUMA Brave mum, Neeva, shares her journey of having twins born 11 weeks premature, their fight for survival and her struggle to provide them with adequate support.

FAMILY TRAVEL

SPECIAL FEATURE 64

SUPER FOODS Kate Bullen has identified 10 inexpensive and easily-accessible Superfoods that help keep you and your family healthy now and in the future.

SCHOOL’S IN Choosing a school for your child is a big decision – so how do you ensure you make the right choice for your child?

80 FLYING WITH KIDS Ngala provides some simple, effective tips to make traveling with young children a smoother experience 82

PARTY DIRECTORY

ISSUE 18 WINTER 2014

Kasey Chambers

Produced and published by Offspring Magazine Pty Ltd. ABN: 95 159 474 245 Website www.offspringmagazine.com.au Editorial enquiries editorial@offspringmagazine.com.au Advertising enquiries Phone 02 4326 1178 Mobile 0415 267 414 advertising@offspringmagazine.com.au Subscription enquiries subscription@offspringmagazine.com.au

Managing Editor Kate Durack Contributing writers Ari Chavez, Gary Ausbruch, Ngala Parenting Education Team, Kate Bullen, Brooke Evans-Butler, Colleen Willis, Celebritybabyscoop.com, Nicole Cox, Tania Connelly, Zoe Deleuil. Graphic Designers Steven Lillywhite, Sarah King Printed by Offset Alpine Printing

Distribution 80,000 copies distributed by paid subscriptions and for free at selected locations throughout Perth and Sydney. Also available online via www.offspringmagazine.com.au Offspring magazine is an independent magazine published quarterly by Offspring Magazine Pty Ltd. Opinions represented are not necessarily those of the publisher. Offspring magazine contains general information and does not claim to substitute for health or parenting advice. All content is subject to copyright, and may not be reproduced without permission.

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oooh, snuggly Winter! We’ve found some cute, and ever so

Our winter edition also includes a fantastic interview with the inspiring

stylish, PJs for your little munchkins

musician and mum of three, Kasey

this season this season (p. 12), as well

Chambers, who is set to release her

as some hot, urban fashion trends

new album soon.

for mums on the go in ‘Style on the

Young mum, Krystal Barter, opens

Street’ (p 28). Think white on white,

up to Claire Armstrong about her

denim and black, denim on denim,

life-altering preventative double

black on black, white and denim and

mastectomy (the same gene that

black and white, according to our

afflicted Angelina Jolie) in ‘The Lucky

to your baby is a big decision. Nicole

Stylist, Elise.

One’ (p. 30). Another Real Life story

Cox investigates birthing options

adequate support. Working out where to give birth

Photo: Hilary Adamson, www.hilaryadamsonphotography.com.au

Welcome to Winter Offspring!

for you in Perth, providing some important things to consider when deciding on the right maternity care for you and your baby (‘Maternity Care’, p. 46). We also provide an Education special feature in this edition to shed some light on the differences between Public and Private, Montessori and Steiner, and so on in ‘School’s In’ (p. 64). And as Superfoods are all the rage, Offspring Dietitan, Kate Bullen, has identified 10 inexpensive and easily-accessible super foods that help keep you and your family Interiors stylist, Jane Millington,

that renews the power of the old

healthy now and in the future (p. 77).

has selected some stunning Winter

adage of wanting a “healthy baby” is

Warming décor items for children’s

‘Twice the trauma’ (p. 60), in which

please stay in touch with us via our

bedrooms, in which she suggests you

brave mum, Neeva, shares her journey

Facebook page!

snuggle up with your precious ones in

of having twins born 11 weeks

a beautiful knit blanket or warm up

premature, their fight for survival and

KATE DURACK

with some Wintery wallpaper (p. 58).

her struggle to provide them with

EDITOR

We hope you enjoy this issue and

We love our family lifest

So do our 250,000 + readers :

Alongside our distribution of 80,000 bea

Be seen by Australia’s best quality parenting magazine for very competitive rates. and value added opportunity for your business to promote exceptional products and services to over 250,000 readers every quarter who are smack bang in the middle of your target market.

locations around Sydney and Perth, we a an active Facebook page following and p

with both a strong print & online repres

phone: 02 4326 1178 Australia’s favourite family lifestyle magazine

For more information contact us on 02 4326 1178 or www.offspringmagazine.com.au

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our contributors

ARI CHÁVEZ COLUMNIST has had work published in Australia, England, Japan and Singapore. She has a delightful toddler, Gabriel, who was born with coffee in his veins. She is currently completing her first novel as part of a PhD project.

GARY AUSBRUCH ACCOUNTANT/COLUMNIST is financial controller for a Perth-based mining company. He has had columns published on the challenging subject of the lighter side of accountancy, and has written for SBS TV. He is married to Sue and has two young children, Ella and Sebastian.

LISA FERNANDEZ RADIO ANNOUNCER is a radio broadcaster, TV host, public speaker, event facilitator, writer and single mother to four year old Isabella. Lisa recently swapped a high profile radio career where she regularity lunched with celebrities to being a less-stressed mum making kindy lunches for Bella.

CLAIRE ARMSTRONG JOURNALIST of eight years across a range of publications and mother of two beautiful girls. She has a passion for all things parenting and a love of sharing stories about the parenthood journey.

NICOLE COX JOURNALIST has worked in print and online media for 15 years in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. Now she has the most adventurous job of her life - mum to energetic toddler, Matteo. Nicole says the flexibility of freelance journalism allows her to combine her two loves, motherhood and writing.

DEVON PLUMLEY MIDWIFE believes her work is most satisfying when she can empower a woman and her partner to birth their baby naturally; and the new little human being thanks his mummy with a squeal!

KATE BULLEN DIETITIAN runs www.dietitianonline.com. au and is mum to three young children. Kate has translated her love of all things online to providing expert nutrition coaching online – it works well for anyone who is busy! Kate’s passion lies in making healthy eating simple and enjoyable.

BROOKE EVANS-BUTLER JOURNALIST has written for home improvement, bridal and women’s lifestyle publications, but says Offspring enables her to combine writing with her new favourite hobby, being a mum to her boys Caleb and Jonah.

ZOE DELEUIL JOURNALIST is mother to Tilo, two, and has another one due in October. She says that writing for Offspring is ideal for a novice parent as it involves learning more about many aspects of parenting, from choosing the right school to essential buys for newborns.”

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

BETH JOHNSTON JOURNALIST worked in print media before welcoming baby boy Sam into the world. She is now doing freelance writing and absolutely loving being a mum.“Sam changes so much every day, so it’s great to be able to keep that passion for writing but not miss a thing.”

JANE MILLINGTON INTERIOR DESIGNER has over 14 years experience in all facets of the design industry including Interior Design, Styling, Sales & Marketing. As owner of Happy Go Lucky www.happygoluckykids. com.au and mother of two children, Samson and Liv, Jane specialises in children’s bedrooms and nurseries.

COLLEEN WILLIS TRAVEL WRITER has roamed the world for many years on her own and with her husband and daughter, Rebekah. During this time, Colleen has been a teacher and an awardwinning recipient of Flight Centre both in Australia and overseas. Colleen will guide you through family travel the way she knows best!

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her favourite song with roses for all the guests, followed by a Princess Coronation ceremony, storytelling, games, craft activity, Glitter Makeup time, photos and lots more. For Bookings call Natasha at Enchanted Princess Parties 0412 145 547 or visit www. enchantedprincessparties.com.au or their Facebook page Enchanted Princess Parties Perth WA. It will be a day that you, your daughter, friends and family will never forget!

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Have your Gorgeous Girl choose her favourite Story Book Princess or Movie Character who will come impersonated in full costume along with gifts, prizes & an Amazing Magical 2 hour interactive performance for her & all her friends. Having an Enchanted Princess Party truly is a memorable day filled with so much dancing, singing, fun, laughter & photos that you can cherish in many years to come. To view more details, all our party packages & party photos visit:

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For party bookings phone Natasha on 0412 145 547

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

COVER FEATURE

A life less BY ARI CHAVEZ

Kasey Chambers is a rare creature, appearing to maintain normalcy in a life that is anything but and, in the true mark of a professional, she makes it look easy.

asey Chambers’ daughter, Poet Poppin Nicholson,

anything but and, in the true mark of a professional, she

is at the local park and she’s protesting.

makes it look easy.

“Hello possum,” Kasey croons. “What’s the matter, Poss? Did you hurt yourself? Here, I’ll fix it.”

There’s the sound of an affectionate kiss and cuddle down

the phone line, and Poet toddles off happy again. “I love it that she’s still at that age where she thinks my kisses are totally magical and they fix everything,” Kasey says. “I actually think she’s really hurt, like something’s fallen on

relationship breakdowns and personal demons that have, at times, brought her undone. But all of that came later. Before the record deals and awards, the tours and photo shoots, and all the buzz and chaos that accompanies a high-profile music career, there

her or something, but then I kiss her and she switches it off

was just Kasey and her family and the vast, empty stillness

and, ‘oh, we’re all better now!’” She laughs, “my elder ones are

of the Nullabor.

a bit wise to it now, and it does just fix everything but the little one is still there so it’s nice.” Kasey Chambers, multi-award winning artist, is wandering

In 1976, just three weeks after Kasey was born, her parents Bill and Diane, took her, and her brother Nash, to the Nullarbor to live. It was their home for eight months a year

around a playground with her mobile phone jammed to her

for the next decade. The family, Seventh Day Adventists at

ear, keeping an eye on her active two and a half year old as

the time, lived off the land, eating meat they could catch and

she explores the slide and the sandpit, whilst simultaneously

earning cash from selling the pelts of the foxes they hunted.

conducting this interview.

In her autobiography, A Little Bird Told Me, Kasey describes

“I brought her down to the playground so she was amused while I did the interview,” Kasey explains. “My

In fact, it’s rarely been easy. Surprisingly for one with such a sunny presence, there have been devastating lows,

the nightly expeditions. “For Dad, the working days went late. Once he’d

eldest ones [Talon, 12 and Arlo, 6] are in school, so they’re

worked out where the foxes were – and they could be

well taken care of right now, but Poet’s the one that, well,

anywhere in the area from Roxbury Downs to Kalgoorlie

as soon as I get on the phone she all of a sudden wants my

in Western Australia – he would hunt all night. That

attention, and knows that she doesn’t have it, so I thought

meant driving the old car with all of us inside, in hot

if I take her to the playground she’s bound to be amused for

pursuit over saltbush and sand with the suspension

a little while.”

crashing up and down, the constant firing of guns,

It seems a typically low-key approach for the singer/

spotlights flashing on and off. Amazingly, Nash

songwriter, beloved for both her unique musical talent and

and I, who went to bed an hour or two into the

her unassuming demeanour. Kasey Chambers is a rare

night, slept through the tremendous nightly

creature, appearing to maintain normalcy in a life that is

racket, tucked up in our bunks.”

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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COVER FEATURE

When you’re growing up you don’t really have anything to compare it to, except what you’re living at the time.

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

COVER FEATURE

It was a childhood characterised by close family bonds, few material comforts and the great freedom of not being tethered a suburban life, and all its preoccupations. Kasey

has a precious childhood truck today. It’s a far cry from the upbringing her own children enjoy. “When you’re growing up you don’t really have anything

recalls it with a mixture of affection and amazement at her

to compare it to, except what you’re living at the time,” she

parents’ chutzpah.

muses.

“When I first had Talon, I remember that going to the

“I certainly didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything.

grocery store was the biggest outing...I just remember

When I talk to my kids about it, and my kids ask questions

thinking it was really daunting and overwhelming and

about it all the time, and I mention, ‘oh well we didn’t have

thinking that my parents were out on the Nullarbor hunting

iPads and no iPods and no playing games,’ and they think,

their own food [when they had me] and it was a really strange

‘yeah, okay, that would suck,’ but for the most part they listen

thing to comprehend.

to those stories and think, ‘wow, you’re so lucky Mum that

It was different times. Even now, in general, the things that we can have and do for our children when they’re little, and

you had that.’ It just goes to show that kids maybe don’t need those material things as much as society has convinced us that they do.” Unsurprisingly, music was a constant in Kasey’s childhood. At night, Bill Chambers would pull out his guitar and the family would have singsongs around the campfire. When the Chambers clan decided to return to

It just goes to show that kids maybe don’t need those material things as much as society has convinced us that they do. the big smoke in 1986, with the goal that Bill and Diane would rekindle neglected music careers, Kasey and Nash joined the band. The family toured city and country venues as the Dead Ringer Band, with Kasey out front when they’re getting bigger, it’s very different than when I

as lead singer. They released seven CDs, and won two ARIAs

was a child...At the time it was much more of, ‘do what you

and seven Golden Guitars at the annual Australian Country

can and make the best of what you have,’ and there also

Music Awards in Tamworth. It was gratifying for Kasey to

wasn’t all the advice readily available from other people...

be recognised for her obvious talent, however she was also

there’s so much information now and we just kind of get

struggling alone with a debilitating secret.

bombarded with it.” In her autobiography, Kasey describes the Nullarbor as her

One night, aged eleven, Kasey was having a sleepover at a friend’s house. Fast asleep in her bed, she woke to find a

own personal playground. She spent her days roaming the

relative of her friend trying to molest her. Her innocence was

red dirt, making cubbies with her brother Nash and climbing

shattered and there would be long lasting repercussions. At

trees when she could find them. She was able to buy a toy

the time a confused and anxious Kasey told no one, but the

occasionally from The Special Train, which periodically sped

traumatic incident led to many years of night terrors, which

through the Nullarbor, a much anticipated event, and still

she would wake from screaming with fear.

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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COVER FEATURE

“The feeling I had, that I can recall, was even scarier than the experience itself,” she writes in her autobiography. “It was pure, primal fear, as if I knew someone had broken into the house and was coming to kill me. It was a feeling without real definition – part of the trouble is that in the mornings after I’d had one of these attacks, I would wake up feeling that something was off, but I had no memory of what. But for the people who were awake it was completely unnerving; I’d get out of bed and run around the house, just screaming. I’d even be scared of my parents; I’d look at them, apparently, but not see them.” Kasey later suffered from sleep walking, and still experiences night terrors periodically. “The question which still haunts me is, of course, why did this happen?” she writes. “Did it have anything to do with what had happened at my girlfriend’s place? I’m not a psychologist – watching a lot of Oprah and Dr Phil doesn’t give you a qualification – but in my head one was a trigger for the other.” For many years Kasey managed to “shelve” her frightening experience of sexual abuse, however she became increasingly troubled throughout her teenage years, wagging school, running away from home and impulsively swallowing a fistful of pills before telling someone what she’d done and being rushed to the doctor, all the while bolstered by her bewildered, family who tried, simply, to show her that they loved her no matter what. The constant in her life was music. The Chambers’ band was enjoying its success and the family maintained their close bond, touring and singing together for years. In 1998, Kasey’s life changed dramatically when her parents split up, and eventually divorced, and the Dead Ringer Band imploded. Kasey moved to Norfolk Island with her mother, where they ran a small cleaning business, and soon took her first tentative steps towards becoming a solo artist. She recorded her first album The Captain and, in true Chambers

It seems a typically low-key approach for the singer/ songwriter, beloved for both her unique musical talent and her unassuming demeanour. Kasey Chambers is a rare creature, appearing to maintain normalcy in a life that is anything but and, in the true mark of a professional, she makes it look easy. www.offspringmagazine.com.au

style, her father played guitar on the record while her brother Nash produced it. Despite her parents’ divorce, Kasey’s family remained close and, even today, her parents and brother work with her on her career. The Captain won an ARIA for Best Country Album in 1999 and another award in 2000 for Best Female Artist. The record also gained buzz in the United States, where she toured with Lucinda Williams. Kasey was on a new trajectory. She released her second album, Barricades & Brick Walls in 2001, and the lead single, Not Pretty Enough, went to number one on the Arias singles charts, gaining her a swathe of fans not typically interested in country music. During the next decade, Kasey went on to release a further six albums and work on a number of side projects. She also gave birth to her first child, Talon Jordi Hopper, in 2002, whose

perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

COVER FEATURE

father Cori Hopper she later amicably split from. In 2005, she

music, which had always been her refuge and solace, and

married fellow musician Shane Nicholson, and went on to

some days she couldn’t bear to play or listen to anything.

have two children with him, Arlo Ray Nicholson in 2007 and,

Her husband, Shane, and her family stood by helplessly

most recently, Poet Poppin Nicholson in 2011.

until, finally, she broke down in front of her mother and

Despite her sunny nature and gentle ease with people, there is a fragility about Kasey Chambers. In 2006, in the midst

acknowledged that she needed help. “It was a good year of feeling that and coming undone.

of continued success, Kasey began to struggle with feelings of

And then it was a whole lot of therapy, a whole lot of going

powerlessness and a lack of control. Her anxiety about being

to psychologists and then another half a year to get myself

in control of all aspects of her life manifested as a full blown

back on track. And then I figured out where this problem was

eating disorder, her weight plummeting to 44 kilograms as she

actually coming from, and it had absolutely nothing to do

worked on her fourth album Carnival.

with food, weight or image at all. I think a lot of people think

“I went through this whole year where it felt like my world

having an eating disorder is all about image or, you know,

was falling apart,” Kasey says. “I think I had this thing in my

wanting to be thin, but it wasn’t really like that for me. I just

head where I felt like, ‘I can’t control what’s going on in my

wanted to have some sort of control, ridiculous control, over

life...I will control what food I put in my mouth,’ to the point

some part of my life.

where I ended up not putting anything in my mouth for quite

It was a pretty awful time in my life but I think I’m a better person now, having gone through it, because I had to hit rock

a while. I went through different stages where I wouldn’t eat for quite a while, and then I went through stages where I would

bottom to realise, ‘hang on, you don’t have the priorities of how you feel in the right places.’”

binge eat in between that, and go between the two all the

Part of the pressure Kasey felt was the culturally popular,

time. It was a scary time and I think a lot of that was just

but unrealistic, expectation that motherhood is always joyous

feeling like I had to have everything just so sorted, that I just

and fulfilling. She found the reality was very different, and the

never allowed myself to have a bad day, or a bit of a cry, or

shock was jarring.

a bit of a whinge. I was just like, ‘I have to have everything

“[When you have a child] you go through so many highs

together and I have to be Supermum,’ to the point where I just

and lows and I wasn’t allowing myself to feel anything in

felt like I fell apart.”

between. And there absolutely is a middle ground. I was going,

Kasey also exercised obsessively, pushing her increasingly

‘okay, I am so in love with my child, he makes me beam more

frail frame through physical acts of endurance while she

than anybody else in the whole wide world,’ and then I just

monitored everything she ate. Her anxiety extended to her

absolutely fell apart and hit rock bottom.

And I think society tells you that as well, that you must be the worst mum in the world if you have a day where you want to cry at the end of the day. Well no, that’s life.

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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Offspring Magazine, together with Life Like Touring, has family passes to see Nick Jr.’s Dora the Explorer Live! Dora’s Pirate Adventure and Sesame Street Presents Elmo’s World Tour Nick Jr.’s Dora the Explorer Live! Dora’s Pirate Adventure Join Dora and the rest of her friends in Dora’s Pirate Adventure as they embark on an exciting trip to Treasure Island in search of the ultimate pirate party. Dora the Explorer fans will use their map-reading, counting, musical and language skills to successfully help Dora reach Treasure Island! For tour dates and tickets visit www.nickjr.com.au/doralive

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

COVER FEATURE

I think a lot of mums think, ‘oh, if I feel like that, I must be the worst mother.’ And I think society tells you that as well, that you must be the worst mum in the world if you have a day where you want to cry at the end of the day. Well no, that’s life. We all know we love our children and they do make you smile more than anybody in the world, and they do all these things, but that doesn’t mean that, at the end of the day, after having three kids on your own all day, that you’re not going to go, ‘Fuck, I’m glad they’re in bed now.’ And that is totally okay to be that person.” Kasey has come a long way since those dark days in 2006, when she ate nothing and exercised obsessively, or binged on the contents of the fridge and purged the food from her body shortly after. Finding and maintaining balance is a work in progress, however. “I still have times when I’m out of balance. I’d like to say, ‘I’ve got it all sorted now,’ but it might be a few days of thinking, ‘okay, everything is so overwhelming. I can’t stay on top of it,’ but then I’ve taught myself how to balance it. I say, ‘you know what, that’s okay. You’ve had a shit few days and things aren’t going your way. You can’t control everything. Let’s wake up tomorrow and start again. You can only do what you can do.’ Without a doubt, I still mess up.” Throughout her personal challenges, and the joys and tribulations of parenting three children, Kasey continued to

I was just like, ‘I have to have everything together and I have to be Supermum,’ to the point where I just felt like I fell apart.

something of a wilderness. She has been working on music with her family band, Kasey Chambers, Poppa Bill and the Little Hillbillies, and the second children’s book in her Little Kasey Chambers series. She has also just finished recording her first solo album of material in four years, Bittersweet, which is slated for release on 29th August this year. “I’ve just been listening to the final mixes,” she says

write and record critically and commercially acclaimed music,

excitedly. “It’s sort of at the stage now where, if you want

including Rattlin’ Bones and Wreck & Ruin with her husband,

something changed, do it right now otherwise that’s how it is,

Shane. The pressures of working together put unbearable

which I’m really happy with.

stress on their relationship, however, and in 2013 they decided to separate.

for over a week in the studio, recorded the whole thing live

At the time, Kasey stated publicly that juggling their

with a bunch of new musos and a new producer, which I’ve

musical careers, particularly touring, had placed too much

never used before, so that was exciting just in itself, using a

strain on the talented couple’s relationship.

bunch of new people. Yeah, it was unreal. I had an absolute

“We don’t always manage it that well to be honest and like any married couple we have our moments,” she said. “The problems are not the creative side but more on tour

blast and I just can’t wait to get it out!” After a tumultuous few years, Kasey Chambers is brimming with enthusiasm about writing and recording music again,

going from hotel to hotel with the kids, at sound checks and

and sharing her unique gift with her fans. And Poet, who has

on planes. It’s a lot of together.”

periodically, and charmingly, piped up during this interview

Kasey and Shane have since stated that they co-parent

with requests to be manoeuvred up or down the slide, or have

their children amicably, and have refused to be drawn on

her sandy feet attended to, is happy being pushed on the

further details of their split.

swing by her devoted mother.

In 2014, it appears that, creatively, Kasey has emerged from

We recorded up in Byron a few weeks ago. We just went in

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

Wonderful stuff.

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

Toddlerfest is back! Perth families have again the opportunity to attend Toddlerfest at Scitech this July.

ue to popular demand, Scitech

pat a baby animal in the petting zoo,

has announced it will be rolling

build creations in their special ‘tinker

its very first Winter Toddlerfest

workshop’ and blow giant bubbles!

for one exclusive week in July! To celebrate, Scitech will be revising

Parents can help connect their child with science and learning by playing

the traditional format with new shows,

with Scitech’s interactive floor displays,

new winter-themed activities and a

including Discoverland and the new

feature exhibition, Carnival of Science. Toddlerfest is on every day from 22-27 July between 10-5pm. Admission is $17

gorgeous planetarium walk-

for adults, $11 for children (4-15

through for the little ones so

years) and children under 4 years

they can have an ‘out-of-this-

are FREE. Group bookings with six

world’ experience just like the

or more adults can pre-purchase

big kids.

tickets at discounted prices by phoning 9215 0740 for details.

All children aged 0-5 years of age are encouraged to attend and this festival is a great way

For more information about Toddlerfest, phone the Bookings department on 9215 0740 or visit Scitech’s website at www.scitech.org.au

to introduce basic science skills and learning from an early age. There will be shows on the big stage, the chance to

JULY 7 2 o 2 t g events to inspire,

in tivate inat ate and cap c s s c d l a o r u ea F ed 0 -5 y

lIve ShOwS

e the explOr cIence al OF S carnIv IOn exhIbIt

General aDMISSIOn Children under 4 years ....................FREE Children 4-15......................................... $11 Concession............................................. $14 Adults ...................................................... $17 Limited space for prams inside.

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v ac tI

ItIeS

PLUS M

UCH

MORE!

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avOID the queueS buy tIcketS OnlIne Parking is free for Scitech visitors. We recommend you park in the undercroft area, however, there is also open-air parking available. Please ask for free parking validation on arrival at our ticket office. For more information please call Scitech bookings on 9215 0740. Full program timetable on the Scitech website.

perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

FUNNY MUMMY with Ari Chávez

WINTER IS COMING It’s that time of year again. The days are shorter, the nights are cooler. There’s even a bit of a nip in the morning air again.

ot to get all Game of Thrones about things, but Winter

keel over with pneumonia every second day, I will never

Is Coming.

understand. They have the constitutions of oxen. Truly they do.

I used to love Winter. Being of the Snow White

persuasion, skin-wise not royal-blood-line- wise, worst luck, I’ve never really had an affinity with Summer. I’ve always been too busy hiding under a hat, and slathering myself in 50-plus

Unfortunately, I don’t. Everything my son picks up at daycare, I have well and truly caught by the time I’ve signed him out of the attendance book. It goes something like this. 01

Petri Dish Son plays with another Petri Dish at daycare.

sunscreen, while squashing envious thoughts about those of

Both Petri Dishes swap diseases before running off to push

the olive-skinned persuasion, to appreciate the sun’s blasting

each other down the slide.

rays.

I’m a Winter girl, always have been always will be. Well, I thought I always would be until I had a child and I realised that

Swapped diseases mutate into some sort of Multi-Tasking

Uber-Virus with a five month life span. 03

Petri Dish Son plays with all the other Petri Dishes in the

Winter is actually a code name for Bubonic-Plague-Season-Get-

Kindy Room. The Petri Dish with Lurking Gastro distributes

Your-Face-Mask-Before-You-Die-Buddy.

the bug to everyone. Yay. Son distributes mutated Multi-

Look, I love my kid. I really do. But, to be perfectly frank, he’s a veritable Petri Dish of germs and diseases. He has to be to build

Tasking Uber-Virus to everyone too, so as not to appear rude. Share and share alike.

up his immune system, so it’s not entirely his fault I suppose.

All Petri Dishes run around room looking flushed.

Unfortunately, the kid building up his immune system directly

The baby Petri Dish in the Babies’ Room crawls into the

correlates to him decimating mine. Daycare in Winter. Oh. My. God. I love our daycare to bits, and so does my son, but, again, Oh. My. God. My child is just one of a gazillion cute-as-a-button Petri Dishes of disease at daycare. I walk in to pick him up and I know that, as sure as God made green apples, by the time I walk out I will have contracted seven different

Kindy Room, just before Story Time, and sneezes all over the books. Good timing, Bubba. 06

The Kindy Petri Dishes fight over sneezed on books. 07

All the Petri Dishes suddenly develop noses that secrete a lot of mucus. Somehow it gets everywhere. And I

strains of a head cold, five chest infections,

mean ev-ery-wh-ere.

a gruesome kind of sinusitis that results in

orange mucous spraying from my nose on a whim and possibly typhoid and diphtheria. How daycare workers don’t

One of the more fragile Petri

Dishes vomits. Eight times. 09

Daycare workers, in a stunning

display of resilience, maintain their oxen status. 10

Son becomes Walking-

Bubonic-Plague-Person by 5.00pm when I pick him up. Son hugs me and wipes snot all over my face and clothes. Breathes in my general direction. 11

I become WalkingBubonic-Plague-Woman by 5.01pm.

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

We detour past the pharmacist and spend silly money on

garlic tablets and echinacea Just In Case. Pharmacy assistant

person in the family well enough to cook dinner. 20

Lie on sofa moaning sickly trying to ignore the kid who

sells me some sort of horseradish concoction and tells me it’s

is painting my shoulder with snot and feeling hotter by the

all the rage for immune-boosting properties. Don’t believe her

second.

but buy it anyway. 13

Husband serves dinner.

Son and me go home and feel hot, flushed and as

if we want to throw up. I take ten horseradish

Kid chucks ten tantrums. Refuses dinner. Husband wrestles him to bed. Squirts Panadol

tablets, which are disgusting, and try to squirt Panadol down son’s throat. He spits it out. Of course. Send husband telepathic message to GET HOME POST HASTE. 14

Husband is clearly feeling

un-telepathic. 15

Send text. Grumpy one.

Husband moseys home. Seems

in general direction of mouth.

Look, I love my kid. I really do. But, to be perfectly frank, he’s a veritable Petri Dish of germs and diseases.

Ha ha ha ha ha. HA! This is sort of true. Husband never USED to get sick. He

now gets less sick than the kid and me. But he still gets sick. 19

Tell smug husband that, as he never gets sick, he is only

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

Husband sits heavily on sofa and

says he feels sick. 25

Offer husband disgusting

horseradish tablets. Say he must take fifteen. Feel sickly smug.

Me and husband lie on sofas groaning

competitively. I win.

never gets sick. Seems smug. 18

our Bubonic Plague status. Husband tells me he

Thirty minutes later husband

returns. Looks flushed.

annoyingly happy. Explain about

28 29

Multi-Tasking Uber -Virus kicks in, post haste.

Further detail unnecessary except that Multi-Tasking

Uber-Virus circles through family on continuous loop for five months. 30

Decide I am a Summer girl after all. Bugger Snow White.

perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

1 2.

MINIMUM PIECES, MAXIMUM IMPACT The key to casual street style dressing is to keep the look simple yet effective. Start with a great pair of jeans. Add a basic tee or an oversized shirt and a pair of flats or heels. Finish off with a jumper or jacket. Play up on one accessory only; make a bangle, neckpiece or ring pop.

STYLE ON THE

street

Denim, leather, sophisticated edge. Mums-on-the-go, be inspired by the street and add detail to everyday staples. Stylist and mother of two, Elise Papamihail shares how to get her favourite winter street style look. 8.

BOLD COLOUR IS OUT Pick two main minimalist colours. Think white on white, denim and black, denim on denim, black on black, white and denim and black and white. Add nudes and pastels for contrast.

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

10.

When juggling parenting with errands, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often the jeans and tee combo that works so well finished with a leather jacket. Boyfriend jeans, shirts and sneakers are also a perfect match. Edging up this simple look can be effortless just by adding some detailed pieces and following a few style rules.

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

CHARISMA AND DETAIL Look for items with detail. Rips and distressed pieces are still very current as are zips, leather and lace embellishments. Black and white stripes, spotsand animal print look hot against basic denim. 3.

LAIDBACK BAG With your details in the clothes, keep your bag neutral, without too much fuss. Think leather shoulder hobos and oversized totes.

THE SHOE THAT POPS

For further style inspiration, follow Elise on Instagram @elisepstyle and at elisepstyle.com 1. White shirt, G star raw $130 2. Leather jacket 1, kookai 3. Leather jacket 2, kookai 4. Flats, Seed $99.95 5. Bag, Seed $89.95 6. Sweater, Hunt no more $109.95 7. Earrings, Dior $1000 (luxe lust) 8. Boots, faddoulthelabel $320 9. Pink Jeans, One Teaspoon $140 10. Blue jeans, BLK DNM $245 net-a-porter.com 11. Brogue shoes, Mimco $199

Shoes play a huge role in the complete look. For sophistication, ankle boots with cut out toes are one of this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s must-have accessories. For a more casual look, think flats with animal print, slipper loafers with gold and velvet embellishments, high top sneakers, low sneakers, loafers and brogues.

11. Photo Credit: DKNY RUNWAY (fashionshowphotos.net), DKNY RUNWAY (fashionshowphotos.net), Miranda Kerr and son Flynn (modelcandids.com)

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

The

Lucky One

The vivacious brunette beauty Krystal Barter opens up to Claire Armstrong about her life altering preventative double mastectomy, subsequent book launch and founding the support network Pink Hope, empowering women to take control of their hereditary breast and ovarian health.

efore Hollywood superstar Angelina Jolie hit news headlines after her perfectly healthy breasts were removed in a preventative cancer effort, there stood

North Manly mum Krystal Barter, grasping medical results that cemented her long held belief of a positive testing to a rogue gene fault that had relentlessly wreaked cancerous havoc across generations of her family. This proved the catalyst to undergoing a double mastectomy, at the age of just 25. Yet she claims she isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t brave or courageous.

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Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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Real Life She considers herself lucky. A depiction which lends itself to the title of her first book, The Lucky One, released in March. “I never had cancer, I didn’t have to fight for my life every day and go through gruelling treatment,” she says. “Those families that face cancer are brave and courageous. I just did “I was given forewarning to save my life and I chose to use it.

had plagued her family for decades and become the first woman in four generations to say she hasn’t had breast cancer. “My family carries the BRCA1 gene fault, which increases a carrier’s chances of developing breast cancer up to 80 percent

years old. “I grew up in a world defined by cancer,” she says. “I was breasts. It was confusing environment for a young girl to learn about her body. It meant I grew up being scared that I was

“A drop of prevention really is worth a kilo of cure.” determination to escape the “cancer curse” that

grandmother was diagnosed at 44 and her great grandma at 68

in a family where pretty much every woman didn’t have any

the best I could with the information I had.

Krystal also acknowledges her innate

Krystal was just 14 years old when her mum was first diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36. Her

I was given forewarning to save my life and I chose to use it.

going to get cancer, very scared. “At 16, I remember running to my mum saying I’d found a lump and demanded to be taken to a doctor for a breast examination – that’s not normal behaviour for a teenage girl.” Krystal’s intensified sense of fear lead her down a dark path of drugs and alcohol during her teenage years and a depression diagnoses

and ovarian cancer up to 50 percent. Yet despite those odds

which she airs with brutal honesty in her book. Today, she

everyone in my family who carries the gene has developed

reminisces about that sinister time with light-hearted humour.

cancer and most haven’t won the fight.” “Of the 25 women in our extended family, 80 per cent of

“Since my book launch, my mum Julie has received a lot of messages of support and sympathy because I was a horrible

them died from cancer. We are fortunate though, my mum and

teenager, just awful,” she says with a chuckle in her voice.

Nan are still here, some of the very few women in my family to

“If you had met me then and before my surgery and known

be bearing the scars and fighting through recurrences.”

how negative I was and the way I felt about my old breasts it

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

It meant I grew up being scared that I was going to get cancer, very scared. would be easy to see the

“And I was very alone. There was nobody my age anywhere

transformation I have

who was making any other choices besides vigilance and

endured to be where I am

screening and the medical system only had support in place for

at now. It is like the sun

cancer sufferers. There was nothing available if you wanted to

has finally started shining.”

choose a preventative path.”

Despite her heightened

Over the next few years Krystal blindly navigated the

risk for carrying the gene

alternative options, but due to a sheer lack of resources and

fault and developing

support at the time in Australia the journey was physically and

cancer, Krystal wasn’t

emotionally isolating.

emotionally ready to be tested until she was 22 and holding her first born child. “My mum and my Nan were actually among the first people

Eventually, her tireless search uncovered an organisation based in the United States called Bright Pink. Its founder Lindsay Avner, also a carrier of the BRCA1 gene fault, had

tested for the BRCA gene fault [the same as Angelina Jolie] in

become the youngest American to opt for a preventative double

Australia. I was 18 when they were tested,” she says.

mastectomy with reconstruction at 23 years old. Through their

Four years after her mother and grandmother tested BRCA positive, a blood test revealed Krystal’s genetic predisposition to follow their footsteps. The suffocating enormity of her future

shared adversity a friendship blossomed and bestowed the gift of hope that a future living with the BRCA gene was possible. “I found the conviction to stop allowing cancer to define

prospects caused Krystal debilitating anxiety attacks and

me in a negative way and decided I too wanted a double

insomnia.

mastectomy,” she says. “My husband was incredibly supportive.

“This gene and the knowledge of what it would bring me was a lot to carry,” she says. “I was so fearful for my life.

I remember him telling me to do what I needed to do because he didn’t want to be raising our son alone. “To many, it seemed extreme, even for the medical professionals it was termed ‘radical’ surgery. My plastic surgeon couldn’t even show me a photo of a patient who had been through a preventative mastectomy. But for me it was an opportunity to take control of my family’s hereditary health and beat this curse. “Ask any woman that has cancer if they had been told beforehand they would get it, what would they do? I had that piece of paper that told me cancer was coming. I reacted.” The surgery was scheduled for March 2009. Krystal was just 25 years old and then had two young sons. But after a routine mammogram picked up suspicious changes in the breast tissue, her surgery was rushed through in November 2008.

Krystal gives these tips to all women to ensure we remain vigilant and informed: 1. Research your family history – did you know your family history on both your mother and your father’s side is just as important? 2. If you are concerned about your family history contact your GP who may refer you to a Family Cancer Clinic. 3. If you want to know more visit www.canceraustralia. gov.au or take Cancer Australia’s Risk Calculator click here canceraustralia.nbocc.org.au/risk/ 4. If you are a BRCA sufferer or known someone who is, or would like to donate, visit www.pinkhope.org.au

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

However bold and confident she may appear

Real Life

today, Krystal says the time surrounding her surgery was incredibly daunting, because other than Lindsay she hadn’t found anyone else that had opted for this preventative approach. “I wondered where the other BRCA positive women were

every three weeks to stretch the skin to house the implants, which were placed in yet another surgery. Krystal required a further surgery to replace her initial

implants after one rotated out of position. After her surgery and still in her hospital bed, Krystal took the first steps to making monumental changes to the

and why they weren’t talking about it and I swore to myself

lives of people touched by BRCA and established Pink Hope,

that I never wanted another woman to feel as alone as I

Australia’s first online community for people at high risk of

did at that moment,” she says. “I knew I had an obligation

developing cancer and their families.

to ensure every high-risk woman didn’t walk the journey

It didn’t take long for Pink Hope to gain a sea of

alone and I could use my experience to make a positive change. It was a profound moment.” Krystal explains the actual

followers with its website currently receiving more than 1 million hits in peak times, plus supporting a forum of over 2,500 members and more than 50,000 social media followers.

mastectomy procedure as

“Last year when news broke of

very different to a boob job

Angelina Jolie’s decision to remove

and disputes any likening

her breasts there was a 701 per cent increase in people accessing

between the two with

our services. The website

all tissue needing to

crashed,” she says.

be removed including

“There are some 240,000

nipples. An additional surgery was necessary

Australian men and women

for the reconstruction

who potentially carry a genetic predisposition to breast,

with expanders set in

ovarian or prostate

place and pumped up

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

Real Life have the other ovary taken out.

cancer and it is my mission to find

“One day my kids will realise I am

those people and help them make life saving and life altering decisions and

a different mum to what I could have

support them through that.”

been had I not had the surgery and that the decisions I made were just as

Her dreams continue to flourish with the recent employment of an online

much for them as they were for me,”

genetic counsellor to ensure high risk

she says. “My mum gave me letters on my

families get the professional support they need outside of the health care

wedding day that she had written in

environment. From here, Krystal

case the worst happened because she

envisages a finance program to assist

didn’t know if she would make it. I feel

families not coping with the costs of

that I won’t have to write those letters

dealing with heredity cancer.

in those circumstances to my children. I have done all I can.”

The success of Pink Hope has led

Her mum now lives next door to

Krystal to receive accolades such as the 2012 New South Wales Young Australian of the Year finalist and a

Krystal and her family, clearly the wicked teenage years are

finalist for the InStyle Audi Women of Style Scholarship, the

a mere memory as Krystal boasts she is privileged to have

Harpers Bazaar Woman of Influence award in 2011 and the

her dearest friend just a stone throw away.

Warringah Young Citizen of the Year in 2010.

“My life today revolves around my four children, my

Along with her charity, modern medicine has rapidly

three human babies, Riley, 9, Jye, 6, and my baby girl Bonnie

advanced too. The now 30-year-old is being applauded for

soon to be 4, and Pink Hope. It is like having another child, I

her decision to proceed with having her fallopian tubes and

gave life to it, put so much energy into it and it fills me with

one of her ovaries removed in the coming months to reduce

so much pride.

her chance of getting ovarian cancer. And at 35 she plans to

“I may have lost my breasts, but I gained my life.”

Little teeth, big smiles Prime Childrens Dental Care – Dr Marilyn Lobo Good dental health allows a child to be free of decay, pain and infection. Dental problems may result in difficulties with eating, behaviour, sleep, growth and learning. Baby teeth also play an important role in a young child’s confidence in smiling and speech. Prime Childrens Dental Care is a Specialist Paediatric Dental Practice devoted exclusively to the dental care of infants, children, adolescents and those with special needs. Our team is highly trained to provide a safe, friendly and caring dental environment for your child.

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Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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Stem cell saviour The miracle treatment that’s available now to all new parents.

hen the family of a 10-month-old boy received the devastating news that their son had been diagnosed

with a rare form of leukemia, they feared the worst. A cancer of the blood, Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia (JMML) is fatal if left untreated, and unless a donor match could be found to provide a life-saving bone marrow transplant, their little boy’s life was in jeopardy. Fortunately, the family had made the decision to store their two children’s cord blood at birth – a simple procedure that provided an insurance policy for their children’s future health, allowing their family to benefit from stem cell advancements in the future. Cord blood is rich in stem cells, which can replace diseased cells and rebuild a child’s blood and immune system. The stem cells in cord blood are less damaged than stem cells taken from the bone marrow of adults. There are current studies showing

“Following the successful transplant, they were stunned when, just 15 days later, doctors decided their little boy was stable enough to go home. ”

storing cord blood at birth proved to

the potential for stem cells from cord

be the key to their son’s recovery.

blood to repair damaged spinal cords,

Since 1988, 30,000 cord blood

and to assist stroke and liver failure patients. Cord blood is

transplants have been performed worldwide to treat a range

also widely used to treat not just leukemia, but several other

of life-threatening illnesses, including sickle cell anaemia, a

types of cancer.

hereditary blood disease called thalassemia, immune system

Stem cells taken from the family’s stored cord blood provided the match they desperately needed, giving their sick

disorders and others. And now with family cord blood banking also available, a

baby a pure source for transplant, while reducing the likelihood

child’s cord blood stem cells can be banked and used to treat

of life-threatening infections following the procedure.

other compatible family members, as well as themselves.

Following the successful transplant, they were stunned

Family cord blood banking is available through Cryosite,

when, just 15 days later, doctors decided their little boy was

Australia’s first private cord blood bank. Cryosite provides a

stable enough to go home.

safe, secure, trusted option for your child’s cord blood stem

The family had expected to be in hospital for six months, but thanks to the cord blood stem cell transplant, they were able to avoid any major setbacks, and were allowed to bring their baby home just eight weeks after his initial diagnosis.

cells. It has successfully stored cord blood for more than 12,000 families. For more information or to speak with an expert please phone 1800 220 410.

Now two years old, strangers are shocked to discover that this outgoing and active little boy was once so sick. While he still takes daily oral chemotherapy, he is healthy and

For more information visit www.cryosite.com

thriving. And his family couldn’t be more grateful. Collecting and

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

CELEBRITY BABY SCOOP

Single celebrity success By CelebrityBabyScoop.com

We hear from five Celebrity parents on being single, dating and raising their kids.

any of our favourite celebrities are single parents and dating. From Jennifer Lopez who juggles time in between raising her twins while being an American

Idol judge to Britney Spears, who is busy spending time in Los Angeles with her two boys and in Las Vegas performing her show Britney: Piece of Me, let’s take a look at the following five celebrities who are divorced and raising their kids.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez currently is a judge on American Idol and occasionally brings her 6-year-

old twins Max and Emme to the set. She announced her split from husband Marc Anthony in July 2011 and has since been dating 26-year-old Casper Smart. On her relationship with Casper, she says “For me, it’s about having a great partner to walk this life with. I have my own high standards for what I want in a partner and how I want to be treated. I bring a lot to the table. I’m not talking about material things but what I have to offer as a person — love and loyalty and all the things that make a good relationship. It’s funny, early on with Beau (Casper), I remember telling him how I have a real button on being ignored. And he was like, ‘Listen, if somebody ignores you, then forget them. They don’t deserve to have your attention’. But it’s funny. Sometimes when we don’t get it, we try to get it in a negative way, you know?” Jennifer will also be playing a single mum in the series Shades of Blue. She will play Harlee McCord, “a single mother and detective who is recruited to work undercover for the FBI’s anti-corruption task force”.

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

America’s Got Talent judge Heidi Klum is a mum of four, to daughters Leni, 10,

If your child hasn’t seen you all day you have to understand they need you - you’re all they’ve got!

and Lou, 4, and sons Henry, 8, and Johan, 7, with former

world is about to completely change. You are responsible for

husband, singer Seal. She

them and you need to be really clear on that. Try to see it from

is currently dating NYC art

the kid’s side; you have to understand them. If you’ve got 20

dealer Vito Schnabel, who

emails to get through the emails can wait. If your child hasn’t

has also been linked to Demi

seen you all day you have to understand they need you - you’re

Moore and Liv Tyler. Heidi

all they’ve got!”

Klum shares with Celebrity

Heidi and her 4 kids are often seen out and about. When

Baby Scoop what she loves

asked about some of her favourite family activities, she

about being a mum.

commented, “We love to go to the park or take a bike ride along

“There are so many amazing things. I would say

CELEBRITY BABY SCOOP

Heidi Klum

the beach. We definitely like to spend time outside which we get to do often in Los Angeles because the weather is always

the love that you feel with a child. For me, having a family is life

beautiful. During the summer, we barbecue a lot at home. We

and I understood once I had children how amazing it is, and

have friends over and jump into our beautiful pool.”

that nothing else is really important but them,“ she says. After the split, she said, “I’m a lioness. I have four cubs. I’m a mum. I want to take care of my kids and protect them says. I don’t want to talk about them, or him, or me.”

Katie Holmes

Katie Holmes blindsided Tom Cruise with divorce papers in June 2012. She now lives

She also has some advice for other mums:

in a $12,500-a-month apartment in New York City’s Chelsea

“Before you have kids you have to really know your whole

neighborhood with her daughter, 8-year-old Suri Cruise.

Sunday, June 15th 10am to 3pm

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

CELEBRITY BABY SCOOP

Katie loves living in the city. She says,

to him to introduce me

“New York has been very good to both of

to him.”

us. I love the theatre, the galleries in my

Britney is busy

neighborhood. Stuff like that is so much

spending time in Los

of what makes me love this city. I love

Angeles with her

talking to my neighbours in the elevator.

boys and in Las Vegas

I like feeling a part of something big. I

performing for her show

love the community in New York. I love

Britney: Piece of Me at

New Yorkers. I ran into someone on

Planet Hollywood Resort

the street the other day that I went to

& Casino.

high school with. I love the moments of

Fortunately she grew

spontaneity every day.”

up being close to her mum Lynn, who she says has given her inspiration.

Britney Spears

“My mum is a wonderful woman. She’s always

Britney Spears - who has Sean

been an inspiration to

Preston, 8, and Jayden James, 7, with

me, but having kids

ex-husband Kevin Federline - is still

helped me make even

going strong with 28-year-old David

more sense of my

Lucado. During her interview with Ellen DeGeneres she explained how she met the Virginia-based lawyer. She said, “I met him at a party. My friends brought me up

relationship with her. My sons [Sean] Preston and Jayden are eight and seven now – and not only do I find myself doing some of the things my mum used to do, I also understand why she did them.”

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Ryan Phillippe divorced Reese Witherspoon in 2006 after seven years of marriage. They have two children together Ava, 14, and Deacon, 10. He also

If I had the education and what they have offered to them as kids, I may have gone a different way

has a 2 1/2-year-old daughter

go along with it, then you know...And

Kailani with ex-girlfriend Alexis

I’ve often said and I don’t mean to

Knapp.

dismiss or demean our industry, but

He has been dating 22-year-

CELEBRITY BABY SCOOP

Ryan Phillippe

I’d like to see them do something a

old law student Paulina Slagter

little more meaningful or important.

since 2011. Career wise he’s

If I had the education and what they

currently working on the new

have offered to them as kids, I may

series Secrets and Lies.

have gone a different way.”

Ryan says he and Reese don’t want their children to become spoiled. “That’s been a core element of our parenting, both Reese and I with the kids, keeping them aware. Neither of us grew up particularly privileged. Our kids are now, so it’s important to keep them mindful and I’ve got to say we’ve done that job.” He also says he wouldn’t encourage their kids to become actors. “I think there’s good and bad people in each and every

CelebrityBabyScoop.com is one of the most popular blogs on the topic and the foremost provider of everything celebrity-baby, featuring baby fashion, baby names, baby trends and up-to-theminute celebrity baby gossip and pics. Get all the latest news, updates, and photos about Hollywood’s most beloved celebrity moms, dads and their babies. Who’s the latest Tinseltown baby? Who’s due next and who just announced a pregnancy? It’s all on Celebrity Baby Scoop.

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BUSINESS MUM

Mumpreneur Mel Seears shares with Offspring how she developed an innovative product into a sustainable business she can work from home.

mother of

invention

ecessity is the mother of invention, and for South Australian mother Mel Seears, it was also the

Best New Product at the 2011 Australian Business Awards.

seed of her own business. Staying in a holiday

Mel travelled to the Melbourne Pregnancy, Babies and

apartment in Byron Bay with her six-month-old son, Angus,

Children Expo for a marketing trip, which helped get her

in 2010, she was unable to put him down because he was

ideas into the public eye, and also contacted bloggers for

just learning to sit up and kept banging his head on the

help in publicising her products.

apartment’s hard floor tiles. She found herself imagining a

The second idea – for the Imaginabox – grew quite

portable, inflatable play mat, and eventually that first idea

naturally from the first. “Once the playmat was in

became an award-winning product.

production I had lots of boxes lying around the house that

On maternity leave from her job as a global project

it was packaged in, along with the usual nappy boxes that

manager, she began learning the ropes of a whole new

come with three small children. The kids were always

industry – products for children. “And after designing the

playing with them, and that’s what gave me the idea of the

mat, prototyping, creating the cover and going into our first

Imaginabox.”

production run, we were on our way,” she says. Two more children followed

The company took off quickly, with the playmat winning

This simple idea takes an ordinary cardboard box and provides a kit, such as steering

– Curtis, now four, and Chloe,

wheels and stickers, to make

two, and watching them

it into a working toy; currently

play and grow has helped

there are ovens, cars, cradles

Mel come up with new ideas

and aeroplanes on offer. This

to develop and launch. “My

product has been popular with

kids have always been the

both parents and kids, says

main motivation behind the

Mel. “The Imaginabox is great

business. Each product we’ve

for parents who want to do

brought to market resolves an

something fun with their kids

issue I’ve had while at home

but don’t have a lot of time.

with my children. They also

I’ve tried to enhance the idea

test my products for me.”

of the box by adding tactile

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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share, and where you can orientate yourself within the

and a steering wheel that

existing industry. You need to network, and it helps to grab

turns – by doing that you

a mentor. I have been lucky to have a couple, and one gave

take the guesswork out

me a lot of help in distribution, pricing and logistics. I’ve

for parents who want to

still made some expensive mistakes, though – for example

do something creative but

there was a trademark issue with my original name, so I

perhaps don’t have craft

had to rename it and then redo all my branding.” She also says there are some downsides: being self-

materials and textas

“Each product we’ve brought to market resolves an issue I’ve had while at home with my children.”

at home. It’s also about reusing and recycling.” Does she

employed can be isolating and you have to remain motivated. But it’s also a style of work that fits in well with parenting. “I love taking control of the creative side and also being able to set my own pace and be flexible so I can fit

have any tips

work around my children’s lives: the birthdays, school drop-

for parents out

offs and pick-ups and holidays,” she says. Mel also provides mentoring for others looking to launch

there with a great product idea they think would work for kids? “The secret to

success is long hours and

BUSINESS MUM

things such as stickers

a new business or bring a product into fruition. “I’m always open to mentoring and I don’t charge because I’ve had mentors myself who have helped me, so it’s about paying it forward,” she says.

hard work. I’m lucky to have a supportive husband and

The company continues to grow, with her products now

parents and in-laws who give us a lot of help,” she says.

being sold overseas, and new products in development. “I’ve

“My tip for anyone starting out would be to make sure your

always got new ideas,” she says. “You need an idea box full

idea is original and then work out how to gain some market

of them.”

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INTERNET PICKS

Our internet picks SHOPPING online is fun and convenient. Now there is fantastic range of fashion items and great buys for the family. However, looking for good-quality sites can be overwhelming with such a large number from which to choose. Finding your way around can be daunting! We’ve provided a few good Australian sites, including a couple from WA, which offer a great range of stylish, beautiful and practical items to help point you in the right direction.

www.limetreekids.com.au

Lime Tree Kids is an online and bricks-and-mortar store on the Gold Coast that believes in “making life stylish, unique and fun” for parents. Products range from eco-friendly essentials for babies & delightful toys for toddlers to gorgeous backpacks, lunch bags and everything else for school. They’ve recently introduced gorgeous home décor as well. All products are hand-picked by Shelley Mason - Founder and mum to two. Shop at www.limetreekids.com.au or visit the store at Unit 44/38, Kendor St., Arundel, Qld, 4214.

Free Shipping on Orders over $150.

www.avidiva.com.au Avidiva is a Perth based online boutique filled with homemade, eco-friendly and organic baby products. Our collection of more than 40 brands includes: Aden & Anais Milk Baby Dandelion Kicky Pants Charli Bear Free gift registry available for baby showers Contact: 0420 720930 info@avidiva.com.au

Free shipping Australia wide for all orders over $50

www.enchantedprincessparties.com.au

Enchanted Princess Parties’ is Perth’s Newest, Most Exciting & Most Anticipated Children’s Entertainment. Your little girls ‘Princess Fairytale Dreams’ can now come true, coming to life in your own home, in one Magical Day! You can now choose a ‘Frozen’ themed Birthday Party with the Beautiful Sisters Snow Queen Elsa & Snow Princess Anna or any of our other Storybook Characters like Fairy Tink, Princess Cinderella, Little Mermaid, Snow White, Alice, or The Monster-High Girls Dracu-laura, Claw-deen & Franki. They all arrive in full costume along with gifts, prizes and an amazing 2 hour interactive performance. All our Princess/Fairy/Tea Parties are specially created and designed for young girls aged between 3-10 years old. There are many show packages to choose from. Silver, Gold & Platinum. They all include music, storytelling, princess/fairy makeup time, games, craft activities, photos, singing by a professional vocalist & much more.

For Offspring readers: FREE Frozen 25cm Plush Olaf or Sven Toy when a Frozen Party is booked For more information, photos & bookings, please look at our website/facebook page or phone Natasha on 0412 145 547.

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WA’s most exciting online baby store is here! Stocking a wide range of brands including OB Designs, Boon, Alimrose Designs, Aden+Anais, Jellystone Designs and many more! Mummy’s Little Essentials have gathered some of the best, most stylish and most functional baby and mum products on the market and they can’t wait to share them with you! Email today on info@mummyslittleessentials.com or call 0452 183 226

INTERNET PICKS

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www.alabouroflove.com.au Are YOU wanting more Childbirth education? A Labour of Love assists women to create empowered and positive birthing experiences through providing: • Childbirth Educational workshops & online programs • Hypnosis for birth group training, one-on-one and Cd’s • Aqua Fitness classes (Perth only) • Pregnancy Specific Massage and Induction Massage • Doula Services and Training NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE 6 cd/Mp3 Childbirth education program & PDF workbook And THE NEW A Labour of Love Book II-empowering through knowledge to create the birth you want and desire. Shop online at www.alabouroflove.com.au or contact Gabrielle Targett on 0418 336 362 or info@alabouroflove.com.au

www.swingz.com.au

Swingz n Thingz fun canvas range includes Swings, Teepees, Swags, Cradles, Hanging Chairs, Ladders and more. Made with a fadeproof marine canvas and guaranteed to last outdoors, everything is available promptly online with FREE delivery Australia wide. For more information, please look at our website/ facebook page or phone 1800 651 456

www.asterandruby.com.au

Tucked away in Dolphin Quay, Mandurah, you’ll find a little boutique called Aster & Ruby. Filled with gorgeous handmade and Australian designed products for babies, women and children, this is a shop not to be missed. In store you’ll find clothing, gifts, toys, nursery, maternity, shoes, accessories and so much more! Shop 5 Dolphin Quay, 37 Dolphin Drive Mandurah Ocean Marina

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DAD’S WORLD

with Gary Ausbruch

Man about the house Gary explores whether time off at home can ever been too much of a good thing.

activities. I was cheerfully indulging in a new role as one of the school mums, and looked forward to chatting with the girls each day about school mums’ stuff. I got into the best exercise routine of my life. After my daily workout, I’d potter around on the

won’t for a minute pretend that I handled a recent stint of unemployment well. Just ask The Omnipotent One,

who had to put up with having me around 40 hours a week more than she normally would, and with a slightly whiffy demeanour to make matters worse. Things started off positively enough. Firstly, a couple of trips away. Then, the opportunity to strap on the Mr Mum apron by helping out with the school drop-offs, homework and extra-curricular

computer for a bit, emailing contacts about

“I was cheerfully indulging in a new role as one of the school mums, and looked forward to chatting with the girls each day about school mums’ stuff.”

potential work, whilst simultaneously maintaining 15 games of Words With Friends on my iPhone. Then, a leisurely lunch while reading the paper, sometimes even sneakily foregoing the business pages for the gossip section. And afterwards, the afternoon could be spent doing those jobs around the house that never seemed to get done. Our garage was cleaned out so it could actually fit a second car in, our cornices de-cobwebbed, and even that

drawer where you put stuff you don’t know where else to put was thoroughly reviewed and reordered. Life was great. And then I realised something: I wasn’t actually happy. I just wanted to work! Without ever knowing it, I was one of those guys who defined himself through his work. It didn’t matter how sparkling the kitchen was, I needed to have something constructive that I put my energy into and received reward from. And consistently beating Kerry73 at Words With Friends was really very nice indeed, but it just wasn’t enough. I became anxious and irritable. The Omnipotent One had gone from loving having me around to herself having

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a full time job keeping me positive. It was bang in the

an impending deadline looming. Unfortunately, I’m not

middle of the hot, sprawling summer school holidays and

quite at JK Rowling’s earning capacity so there was the

she was having a hard time deciding whether it was me

minor issue of the mortgage that still needed paying each

or the kids she wanted out of the house more.

month, but life was great – for real this time.

And then, through much coaching and at least

And just as I’d got my head around it all,

a bit of pleading from her, I finally got it. I just let go of it all and decided that I needed to get back to seeing what I was going through as a positive experience. I eventually managed to get it into my head that these circumstances were pretty rare. How often would I get to spend a summer at home without having to go to work? So I made the most of it. I watched nearly every ball of The Ashes. I went to

I got a job. And I’ve gone straight back to

“It was bang in the middle of the hot, sprawling summer school holidays and she was having a hard time deciding whether it was me or the kids she wanted out of the house more.”

old habits. Instead of stressing about not having a job, I stress about work-related things. Odd-jobs around the house remain undone. Exercise, when it happens, is squeezed in twentyminute bursts. During the week I only see the kids for an hour at each end of the day. In other words, it’s back to normal. Only now I don’t take my time off for granted. I look forward to weekends

the beach most days. We had barbeque

about as much as years ago when they

dinners at 5 o’clock. I was getting into

meant party time, and the sight of a

the swing of this. I took on more writing work. It was a formerly

public holiday in the distance is like a desert oasis. And writing? Unfortunately I’ve had to give most of my

unknown freedom to be able to take time enjoying the

newly acquired writing jobs up. The only ones I’ve kept

creative process rather than write in my spare time with

are for the very best publications.

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PREGNANCY & BIRTH

Maternity Care BY NICOLE COX

Selecting the best birth option

for you and your baby

Working out where to give birth to your baby is a big decision. Here are some things to consider when deciding on the right maternity care for you and your baby.

ITH more than 800 babies born in Australia every day, it is the perennial question asked by expectant mothers. Where do I have my baby?

Who will provide us the best care? Do I choose an

obstetrician or put my faith in midwives to deliver my child? And, if I have private health insurance, should I pay for a “five-star hotel-like experience” or take the free option with a public hospital? Mother-of-three Amanda Mannino says choosing private maternity hospitals for each of her pregnancies has given her peace of mind. “I chose to go private because I imagined I would be in the best place and have the best care for myself and for my babies, with the special care nursery and expert staff on hand,” she says. “It was also important for me to have a familiar doctor

“I guess you’re a bit precious about the first one. You

– someone who I had confidence in and trusted, not only

think you’re the only person who’s ever had a baby so I

during the delivery, but throughout the entire pregnancy.

wanted the experience to be five star – and the room was, it

“Going private really was a family experience. The rooms were lovely and had a double-bed so my husband could stay overnight and lend a hand.” Kelly Sherriffs experienced both the private and public maternity systems with the births of her two daughters. Mrs Sherriffs delivered her first-born, Sophie, eight years

“When I had my second daughter, I found the level of care great (at a public hospital).The nurses were fantastic. I felt really supported…They all had similar opinions on what to do and I felt very confident about breastfeeding. “I was a bit of a private hospital snob to begin with,

ago at a private hospital and last year opted to go public

but after my experience at the public hospital, I would

with her second daughter, Lucy, keen to try for a natural

recommend the public system,” she says.

birth after a caesarean the first-time around. “Being your first child, you’re very unsure about the whole experience so I went private – firstly, because we had private health cover and secondly, because I wanted to be in what I thought were the best hands,” she says.

was like a hotel.

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

Jane Bigelow opted for a homebirth for her third son in 2012 after having hospital births for her first two sons, now aged five and seven. “For my previous hospital births, I’d had really good experiences but I had spoken to people and thought that

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PREGNANCY & BIRTH

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Winter 2014

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Latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that 33,627 babies were born in Western Australia in 2012 – just over 10 per cent of all infant births in the nation. the midwives in the homebirth program shared a similar birth philosophy to myself,” she says. “I thought that while I was low-risk and everything was going well, it was an environment where I could have my other children (present). The continuity of care program with the same midwives looking after me during my pregnancy and the birth really appealed to me. “The midwives knew I was in transition and it was a very short period and they just gently guided and distracted me, changing positions and breathing techniques. All of a sudden the baby was born without any pushing or stress and I was so amazed that they knew just from the positions I was in and the

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noises I was making that I was on track and the baby was close.” Latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that 33,627 babies were born in Western Australia in 2012 – just over 10 per cent of all infant births in the nation. So, if you’re about to add to those statistics, here are a few things to

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consider when making your decision.

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5/7/2014 2:52:09 PM

PREGNANCY & BIRTH

Public v Private

Public: The pros

have caesareans stay about five

w There is usually no cost to having your baby in the public

days. Women who deliver in

health system, with almost all care covered by the hospital.

birthing suite are usually discharged

Ultrasounds, pathology, blood tests and pre and ante-natal

after 24 hours.

classes are all included.

w You are likely to have many

w Women with low-risk pregnancies can choose to deliver

different nurses, midwives and

their baby at a birthing centre, which is usually a more

doctors looking after you during

relaxed bedroom-like set-up and is adjoined to a

your pregnancy and delivery.

main hospital.

w Fees may be charged to you if you

w Intervention rates are usually lower at public hospitals.

opt to have your own obstetrician

w Public hospitals usually have the very best specialist care

deliver your baby at a public hospital.

for sick newborn babies.

Public: The cons

Private: The pros w You will have a trusted obstetrician and someone you

w Usually you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pick and choose which public hospital you

know looking after you if something goes wrong during

would like to deliver your baby. Due to high demand, some

your pregnancy and delivery.

hospitals only accept bookings from women who live locally.

w If you have a caesarean, your obstetrician will usually

w You are more likely to share a room if you opt to go public,

perform the procedure.

although some public hospitals do offer private rooms.

w Private hospitals often have nurseries where nurses will

w Depending on the hospital and the type of delivery, you

care for newborns while new mums can recover or catch

may be asked to go home earlier than a new mum at a

up on sleep.

private hospital. At public hospitals women who have

w Many people say that private hospitals have nicer rooms and

vaginal deliveries stay two to three days, while those who

often your partner is able to stay overnight.

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w Being at home means you are in comfortable and familiar surroundings.

PREGNANCY & BIRTH

w Higher chance of having a vaginal birth.

w You can choose exactly who is at the birth. If you have other children, you can opt for them to be present rather than organise care for them when you are in labour.

Homebirth: The cons w Not everyone can have a homebirth. Homebirth is only available to women who have had trouble-free pregnancies and are expected to have low-risk deliveries without complication. There are special criteria considered including your proximity to a hospital in the event of an emergency. w You need to be committed to giving birth without medical w Some private hospitals have teamed up with hotels, where

intervention or pain relief. Common interventions available

new mums who have had a straight-forward birth are able to

in hospital, such as induction, gas and epidural, are not

recover in a hotel suite. Private health funds often pay this fee.

available for homebirths.

w Depending on your delivery and which hospital you choose,

w Make a back-up plan. If there are complications during labour,

you can stay longer at a private hospital to recover. Usually

you will need to travel to the nearest hospital.

women who deliver vaginally stay three or four nights and

w Your midwife will leave several hours after the birth and

those who deliver by caesarean stay about a week

you will not have access to around-the-clock care, advice and

Private: The cons

breastfeeding assistance as you would in a hospital.

w Private obstetricians can charge thousands of dollars to manage a pregnancy. Fees vary from between $3000 and $10,000, although some of this can be recouped by private health insurance. You may incur additional costs for paediatric care, prenatal education classes, anaesthesia and pharmaceuticals. w Private obstetricians must have visiting rights at the hospital where you choose to deliver your baby. It may pay to book the private hospital first and then ask for a list of which

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obstetricians practise there. w Because obstetricians also need holidays and time off from work, there is no guarantee that your doctor will attend the delivery. w If you are delivering naturally, the obstetrician often only arrives in the final stages of delivery and a midwife looks after you throughout labour.

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Homebirth: The pros w Women who give birth at home report it being a more relaxed and comfortable experience than delivering in a hospital. w Women cope with labour and associated pain without interventions. More natural measures including immersion in water in a birthing pool, showers, massage, aromatherapy and walking are used instead. w Rather than having whichever midwife is rostered on the day, you can build a rapport with one or two midwives who will monitor you and your baby during your pregnancy and the birth.

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PREGNANCY & BIRTH

Having a baby in Perth? Here are some options. KING EDWARD MEMORIAL HOSPITAL & FAMILY BIRTH

neonatal care to babies born from 34 weeks gestation. The

374 Bagot Rd, Subiaco | (08) 9340 2222

hospital also offers a candlelight dinner for couples to celebrate

www.northshoreprivate.com.au

the birth of their baby in the privacy of your room.

King Edward Memorial Hospital is WA’s largest maternity

special care nursery – the largest in the southern hemisphere,

ST JOHN OF GOD HOSPITAL, MT LAWLEY (FORMERLY MERCY HOSPITAL – OWNERSHIP CHANGE MAY 5, 2014)

four birthing suites and a bath for labour or water births.

Thirlmere Rd, Mt Lawley | (08) 9370 9222

hospital and oversees more complex pregnancies, with about 6000 babies born there each year. Its services include an 80-bed

There is also the Family Birth Centre, which provides a

www.sjog.org.au/hospitals/mt_lawley

home-like environment for women who anticipate having an

With some rooms overlooking the Swan River, St John of God

uncomplicated birth. The birth centre is open to both public and

Mt Lawley offers double beds in all private rooms if partners

private patients regardless of where they reside. The hospital

wish to stay at the hospital overnight. The family birthing unit

also lays claim to forming Australia’s first milk bank which

mimics home-style accommodation to make patients feel

provides sick and premature babies with donor breast milk.

more comfortable and the hospital offers antenatal classes, a lactation midwife and a Level 2 special care nursery for unwell

ST JOHN OF GOD HOSPITAL, SUBIACO

or premature infants.

175 Cambridge St, Subiaco | (08) 9382 6111 www.sjog.org.au/hospitals/subiaco_hospital/hospital_

OSBORNE PARK HOSPITAL

services/maternity

Osborne Place, Stirling | (08) 346 8000

St John of God Subiaco is a private hospital that welcomes

www.kemh.health.wa.gov.au/having_a_baby_in_WA/

more than 3500 babies each year.

osborne_park

It is one of the most popular private maternity hospitals in

Osborne Park Hospital is the second busiest public hospital

Perth with 10 delivery rooms and a dedicated operating theatre

for women and newborns in Perth. It has four birthing suites

for obstetrics patients. There is also a 26-bed neonatal unit,

as well as a multi-sensory Snoezelen room to promote deep

which is classified as a high dependency Level 2 nursery to

relaxation and wellbeing through special lighting, sound,

provide specialist care for babies born prematurely from 32

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weeks gestation.

GLENGARRY PRIVATE HOSPITAL ST JOHN OF GOD HOSPITAL, MURDOCH

53 Arnisdale Rd, Duncraig | (08) 9447 0111

100 Murdoch Drv, Murdoch | (08) 9366 1111

www.glengarryprivate.com.au

www.sjog.org.au/hospitals/murdoch_hospital/hospital_

Glengarry Private Hospital, in Perth’s northern suburbs, offers

services/maternity

four birthing suites and four neonatal care cots for premature

St John of God Murdoch’s maternity ward, St Mary’s, offers 35

and sick babies. There are four deluxe family rooms that

beds across 29 private suites and three shared rooms. There is

accommodate partners who want to stay after the birth of the

a special care nursery, which is classified as Level 2, to provide

baby and another two single rooms complete with en suites.

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PREGNANCY & BIRTH

KALEEYA HOSPITAL (MANAGEMENT OF PREGNANCIES AND DELIVERY UNTIL DECEMBER 2014 WHEN DELIVERIES TRANSFER TO THE NEW FIONA STANLEY HOSPITAL IN MURDOCH) Missenden Road, CamperdownPhone: (02) 9515 6111 15 Wolsely Rd (corner of Staton Rd), East Fremantle | (08) 9319 0300 www.kemh.health.wa.gov.au/having_a_baby_in_WA/kaleeya Kaleeya Hospital is a public maternity hospital that offers mostly private rooms. Prospective mothers have the option of attending the antenatal clinic exclusively or sharing the care between their own GP and the antenatal clinic. For labouring mums, there are four birthing suites with en suites and a bath for labour and water births.

ARMADALE KELMSCOTT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL 3056 Albany Highway, Armadale | (08) 9391 2000 www.kemh.health.wa.gov.au/having_a_baby_in_WA/armadale Armadale Kelmscott Memorial Hospital welcomes 1400 babies a year and caters for both private and public obstetrics patients. In the public maternity ward, Maud Bellas, there are four birthing suites and 23 postnatal care beds. In the private ward, Bickley, there are three birthing suites and 12 beds for mums post birth. The hospital provides care for low-to-medium risk obstetric patients.

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PREGNANCY & BIRTH

BENTLEY HOSPITAL 18-56 Mills Street, Bentley | (08) 9334 3666 www.kemh.health.wa.gov.au/having_a_baby_in_WA/bentley Around 600 babies are born at Bentley Hospital each year, with the hospital servicing expectant mothers who have low-risk pregnancies. There are three delivery suites and 23 obstetric beds for maternity patients, with four consultant obstetricians on call in case of emergencies.

ROCKINGHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL Elanora Drive, Cooloongup | 08 9599 4000 www.kemh.health.wa.gov.au/having_a_baby_in_WA/rockingham Recent refurbishments have expanded Rockingham General

ATTADALE PRIVATE HOSPITAL

Hospital’s services to five birthing suites, 20 maternity beds

21 Hislop Rd, Attadale | 9330 1000

complete with en suites and a four-cot neonatal unit for

www.attadaleprivate.com.au

premature and sick newborns. Visiting midwifery services are

Expectant mothers have access to three family rooms complete

available and there is a lactation clinic offered twice a week.

with double beds and en suites at the riverfront Attadale Private Hospital. As well as three birthing suites, Attadale

JOONDALUP HEALTH CAMPUS

provides 18 beds for antenatal, postnatal and women’s health

Corner of Grand Boulevard and Shenton Ave, Joondalup

care. There is also a three cot Level 2 special care nursery,

(08) 9400 9400 | www.joondaluphealthcampus.com.au

which is managed by expert staff and a team of visiting

Joondalup Health Campus staff delivered 2500 babies in 2012-

paediatricians. Group tours of the hospital are conducted every

2013. The hospital offers maternity healthcare for both public

Sunday at 2.30pm. No bookings are necessary.

and private patients. There is a 24-hour special care nursery for

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PREGNANCY CENTRE

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2013 to address the increased numbers of infants being born across Perth’s northern suburbs.

PEEL HEALTH CAMPUS 110 Lakes Rd, Mandurah | (08) 9531 8000 www.peelhealthcampus.com.au Peel Health Campus catered for 1063 births in 2013, providing for both public and private patients with low to medium risk pregnancies. There are three delivery suites and 16 maternity beds. Parent education services are also available.

THEBUMPWA Unit 1/ 40 Pearse Street, North Fremantle | (08) 9430 6882 www.thebumpwa.org.au TheBumpWA, formerly known as Community Midwifery WA, is a not-for-profit organisation that offers a community midwifery program for women wanting to have a homebirth. The service also offers a range of pregnancy education classes and provides midwifery advice to parents-to-be, including a lactation consultant to help establish breastfeeding and Mother Nurture groups in Fremantle, Beechboro, Baldivis and Gosnells to teach early parenting skills and coping techniques in the early days.

TheBumpWA offers great support

PREGNANCY & BIRTH

16 babies. A new $3.5 million antenatal clinic opened in June

heBumpWA (formerly Community Midwifery WA) offers a range of pregnancy classes with up-to-date, evidence based, information, delivered in an engaging and positive way. TheBumpWA has an extensive lending library and provides midwifery advice to pregnant women and their partners wherever they are having their baby. TheBumpWA offers support for the early days of parenting with low cost lactation consultation when you are getting breastfeeding established, and Mother Nurture groups for when you are struggling with the demands of early parenting. In partnership with WA Health, TheBumpWA delivers the Community Midwifery Program, a maternity service for Perth women experiencing a low risk pregnancy birthing at home. These pregnancy classes and early parenting services are free to all Community Midwifery Program clients and are offered to anyone in the community, generally for a small fee. For more information visit www.thebumpwa.org.au

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Help is at hand at The Bump WA. We are a unique government-funded not profit organisation providing pregnancy classes, midwifery advice, lactation consultations and post-natal support groups. First baby or fifth, we specialise in listening to you and helping you decide what is best for your circumstances. Whatever your question, big or small, we are just a phone call or a click away. We look forward to meeting you soon!

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PREGNANCY & BIRTH

What to expect when you take your baby home You’ve had your baby. You’re home.

What now?

or many new parents, bringing

contact organisations such as

their baby home from hospital

the Red Cross or church groups

has a reputation for one of the finest

that assist new parents.

Maternity Facilities in the Southern

can be daunting. Not having midwives on hand to help can be stressful.

• Don’t try to do as much as you used to pre-parenthood. Pace

St John of God Murdoch Hospital

Metropolitan area, featuring 35 beds - 29 of which are Private Suites. For more information visit

Here are some tips from St John

yourself and scale back tiring

of God Murdoch Hospital’s Maternity

activities. One outing a day is

www.sjog.org.au/murdoch/

usually enough for new mothers.

maternity or telephone 9366 111.

Ward to help you adjust: • Sleep when your baby is sleeping

• If you or your partner is worried

– a rested mother is a happy

you are not feeling love for your

mother.

baby or you are sad and anxious

• If you or your baby is showing

about parenthood, phone the

any signs of illness, don’t

Raphael Centre on 6226 9455

hesitate to get expert advice. Phone your GP, Health Direct or visit the Emergency Department. • Don’t worry about the state of

for help. • Early signs of postnatal depression may be overlooked in the stressful weeks after birth.

your house – it’s very difficult to

Mental health history or previous

tend to a baby’s needs and keep

tragic life events may trigger

a spotless house.

depression in this period. Phone

• Ask for and accept help. If you don’t have anyone to ask,

Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 for help.

Your baby - beyond the birth You’ve had your baby. You’re home. But you’re not alone. Bringing your baby home from the hospital can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are some really handy tips in the article above about adjusting to life as a parent. And here are some helpful contacts if you feel things are getting too difficult.

■ Your GP or the Emergency Department - don’t hesitate to get expert advice if you or your baby show any signs of illness ■ St John of God Raphael Centre Murdoch - 6226 9455 - if you are experiencing feelings of sadness, anxiety or postnatal depression

■ Red Cross (Freecall 1800 810 710) or church groups - when you don’t have ready access to family or other support systems ■ Health Direct - 1800 882 436 - call if you need specific advice on caring for your baby

St John of God Murdoch Hospital offers free information sessions about lifestyle and early pregnancy issues presented by a midwife, dietitian and physiotherapist. Phone 9333 9840 to enrol. Hospitality I Compassion I Respect I Justice I Excellence

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

www.sjog.org.au/murdoch

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

•

Obstetrics Operating Theatre

stay at the hospital and after

•

Parent Education Department

discharge, such as a tailored Parent

•

Breastfeeding Support Service

Education Series to assist new

•

St John of God Raphael Centre

mums and dads through the stages

These departments integrate

to provide well-rounded, high-

of pregnancy, child-birth and parenting.

he birth of a baby is a joyous

level and compassionate care

and very special experience

to all patients. Supporting each

Support Service also assists

for new parents. Each mother has

birth is a team of experienced and

new mums with the sometimes

different expectations and care

passionate caregivers including

challenging task of breastfeeding.

requirements, which is why St

midwives, nurses, and specialist

John of God Subiaco Hospital has a

medical practitioners comprising

provides services to parents and

comprehensive Maternity Service

of obstetricians, anaesthetists and

families affected by anxiety, stress

that provides outstanding and

neonatologists.

or depression during pregnancy

personalised care. The Maternity Department

PREGNANCY PREGNANCY && BIRTH BIRTH

Maternity Services at St John of God Subiaco Hospital

The Hospital’s Breastfeeding

The Neonatal Unit is equipped

The Hospital’s Raphael Centre

and following childbirth. The

to provide a high level of support

Centre also provides perinatal

welcomes approximately 3,600

to newborns that require extra

and infant mental health care to

births per year and includes:

care and includes two Mother-

families from conception to four

•

Antenatal and Postnatal wards

Crafting Rooms, an Expressing

years old.

(76 Maternity Rooms)

Room and a Family Room.Various

•

Delivery Suite

support services are available to

can learn more by visiting www.

•

Neonatal Unit

parents during their postnatal

sjog.org.au/subiaco.

Expecting mums and others

Taking care of the future since 1898 116 years, generations of doctors and midwives, tens of thousands of babies. And each one was our most important delivery ever.

Hospitality I Compassion I Respect I Justice I Excellence

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www.sjog.org.au/subiaco

perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

PREGNANCY & BIRTH

Beautiful Birth Experience at St John of God Mt Lawley Hospital (formerly Mercy Hospital Mt Lawley)

t John of God Mt Lawley’s Family Birthing Unit aims to ensure families are totally satisfied and experience the highest standard of contemporary care. They provide: • Antenatal classes – childbirth and early parenting education • Access to a Lactation Consultant • Modern Birthing Suites • Level 2 Special Care Nursery • Support Centre for parents and babies St John of God Mt Lawley has six beautifully appointed birthing suites and is supported by Perth’s leading obstetricians and dedicated caregivers assisting with more than 1,400 deliveries annually. Highly dedicated caregivers provide you and your family with the best possible standard of care as you welcome your baby into the world. Family Birthing Unit The Family Birthing Unit offers a combination of intimate, home-style

accommodation, personalised care and modern clinical facilities. Many of the patient rooms have spectacular views of the Swan River. Double beds in all private rooms enable parents to stay together for the duration of your stay at this very special time. The team of midwives, medical practitioners and physiotherapists are committed to preparing you and your family for all aspects of childbirth and parenthood. Birthing Suites Modern and spacious birthing suites have individual en suite bathrooms with double showers and access to large baths. Your partner or support person is most welcome and encouraged to participate in your birthing experience. Arranging your stay Parents are welcome to tour all areas of the Family Birthing Unit and meet their team on any Sunday at 2pm. Booking forms are available

from your doctor or the Family Birthing Unit. For further information on our services please visit www.sjog.org.au/mtlawley

The view outside is almost as breathtaking. As an expectant mother there is a lot to like about our newest hospital. From the ante-natal classes to the beautifully appointed birthing suites, from the leading obstetricians and dedicated caregivers to the support centre for parents and babies, to the spectacular views you can get of the Swan River. See it for yourself Why not book a tour of our Family Birthing Unit and meet the team on any Sunday at 2pm. Booking forms are available from your doctor or our Family Birthing Unit. Call 123 4567 or email us at maternity.mtlawley@sjog.org.au

Hospitality I Compassion I Respect I Justice I Excellence

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www.sjog.org.au/mtlawley

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PREGNANCY & BIRTH

Special care at Peel Maternity D

r Peter Kell, a GP-obstetrician, established Peel Maternity and Family Practice in Mandurah in 2006. The clinic grew in response to a demand for more holistic, collaborative care for women throughout their pregnancy and delivery. There are three GP-obstetricians working at Peel Maternity, all with advanced training in obstetrics, able to perform both natural and caesarean deliveries. They work side by side with highly experienced midwives, and a specialist woman’s health physiotherapist. The exceptional level of holistic care the team provides, in a friendly, accessible environment is unsurpassed by any other model. Peel Maternity attracts patients from many parts of Western Australia, some come as far as Tom Price, because of its high standard of care. The Peel Maternity philosophy has patients seeing both doctors and midwives throughout their pregnancy, in a true team environment. The great advantage to this is that each patient knows all members of the team, regardless of the ultimate

mode of delivery. This professional collaboration creates a sense of family around the patient, who finds their whole experience satisfying and enjoyable. The practice is set to move into a beautiful new state-of-the-art facility with in-house ultrasound, CTG monitoring, along with physiotherapy, naturopathy, midwives and GP’s. The building also includes a pathology collection centre and a beautiful café with a playground. Peel Maternity will also hold antenatal and postnatal classes, and group sessions will be run in a large education room. The centre offers ample parking and is located close to the Mandurah CBD and café strip. They have invested in delightful playgrounds on-site to keep the children busy whilst the patients visit. The team includes Dr Peter Kell, Dr Thomas

Matthews, Dr Simon Smith, Physiotherapist Dianne, Naturopath Angela and Midwives Marlene, Elaine, Kim, Linda and Jane. Their friendly, smiling receptionists look forward to welcoming all new and past patients to Peel Maternity. Check them out at www.peelmaternity.com.au and on Facebook, or come and visit 29-31 Sholl Street, Mandurah WA.

PEEL MATERNITY AND FAMILY PRACTICE

Doctors and Midwives working together to provide Holistic Pregnancy Care Our GP-Obstetricians care for mothers and babies in the antenatal and postnatal period.

We offer services for the following: Complete Contraceptive • Fertility advice Service • Vasectomies • Minor Gynaecology • Physiotherapist ... and Naturopath...

Our Gp-Obstetricians, Dr Kell, Dr Smith and Dr Matthews, have many years experience in obstetrics. They feel passionate about working together with midwives in the practice, to provide excellent care for maternity patients. Patients do not need a referral to use our services. Peel Maternity prefers to see you from early in your pregnancy. And we continue to care for you until the birth of your baby and postnatally. We also have a physiotherapist available to offer preventative health advice and treatment for these unique childbearing years.

Peel Maternity see patients from all over Western Australia, and we also do sharedcare with other GPS and KEMHospital. Public or private patients

Call our friendly receptionists to make an appointment TODAY! Phone: 9534 8133 | Email: reception@peelmaternity.com.au www.peelmaternity.com.au 57 Murdoch Drive, Greenfields WA 6210 NEW PRACTICE OPENING IN JULY 2014 – 31 SHOLL STREET, MANDURAH

Peel Maternity & Family Practice has been operating in Mandurah since 2006, caring for young families, in particular obstetric patients

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

Real Life

Twice the

trauma

Brave mum, Neeva, shares her journey of having twins born 11 weeks premature, their fight for survival and her struggle to provide them with adequate support.

BY TANIA CONNELLY

’m not complaining, just explaining,” Neeva says of her struggle to provide the best possible life for her twin boys while fighting for disability funding and in constant pain

from Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Her own health issues became secondary to Neeva’s babies’ fight for survival in and out of her womb. She coasted through the first few months until concerns were raised at the 18 week ultrasound. Scans showed a 20 week sized foetus with a cleft lip and a smaller foetus measuring 16 weeks old. The discrepancy between them was significant and Neeva felt something was terribly wrong. Her hunch proved right. Her gynaecologist referred her to Professor Jan Dickinson (Professor of Maternal Fetal Medicine, trained in obstetrics and gynaecology) at King Edward Hospital in Perth. She confirmed Neeva carried complicated monochorionic twins - identical twins whose sharing of a placenta is unbalanced causing “Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome”. The larger boy, Jake, received an adequate supply

amniotic sac contains 25mls. Further scans revealed Josh

of nutrients, fluid and oxygen whilst Josh was starved of these

also had a cleft lip and another litre of fluid was drained at

vital resources.

22 weeks. Josh’s prognosis seemed grim so the goal from

At 19 weeks, nurses drained 1.3 litres of amniotic fluid

19 – 29 weeks was to keep him alive so Jake could reach

from around Jake to reduce strain on his heart. A normal

gestation. If one twin died the surviving twin could lose

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a large amount of blood and the sudden drop in blood pressure could result in a heart attack or stroke. Neeva pauses, eyes welling with tears. “It was hard, really hard,” she says. “I spent 10 weeks constantly thinking about what could happen, hoping for a good outcome.” Whilst Neeva was hospitalised at 29 weeks to monitor changes in foetal heart rate to movement, Josh suffered

malformation reconstruction, Neeva

foetal distress. He barely moved yet

hopes future surgery to his jaw will

his heart rate fluctuated from 90 – 220,

become less invasive. Josh weighed

(normal sits between 120 and 160). She’d

665 grams and his organs were visible

discussed funerals with her husband Ken

through his skin but it was Jake,

and opted for a caesarean via epidural

weighing 1460 grams, who nearly

over general anaesthetic, “Just in case

died that first night. His liver almost

Joshy was only alive long enough for me to

failed due to being overloaded in utero. The first 24 hours of his

give him a cuddle.” They were born that day.

life were critical. He survived, arriving home at seven weeks old

The twins were delivered 11 weeks premature, the first to be born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate complete (the

and now stands 182 centimetres. Younger by one minute, Josh is 150cm. Accepting the

most severe form) on record in Australia in 40 years. One

consequences of twin babies with cleft lip and palate, “it was

in 700 babies is born with some form of clefting, causes are

salt in the wound” to discover Josh also developed cerebral

still unknown.

palsy quadriplegia, a severe intellectual disability. His vision

Jake had his lip repaired at four months of age and his palate at nine months and with medical advances in facial and oral

and hearing is impaired, he has overactive salivary glands and requires feeding through a tube in his stomach. Three

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

days after birth he was taken to Princess Margaret Hospital

nappies, wipes, medications and other essentials are bought

for Children (PMH) for surgery on a perforated bowel. At five

by Neeva. Fortunately they’re discounted by Josh’s pension

and a half months, attached to an oxygen tank, he was finally

card and funding from charities like Variety WA. Neeva applied

allowed home having endured an eye, hernia and three bowel

for funding for personal support workers to help alleviate the

operations and weighing just two kilograms. Six weeks later

pressure of caring for Josh. Applications are graded according to

Josh was back. His airways were collapsing, his lungs were

need and many families miss out due to insufficient funding.

filling with carbon dioxide and he was in danger of having

Her nine year marriage to Ken crumbled under the

a heart attack or stroke. He wore a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine until 26 months and breathed from an oxygen tank until 22 months. Josh spent 283 of his first 365 days in PMH. At 12, intraocular lenses were inserted between Josh’s natural lens

weight of financial strain and lack

She’d discussed funerals with her husband Ken and opted for a caesarean via epidural over general anaesthetic, “Just in case Joshy was only alive long enough for me to give him a cuddle.

and cornea and at 14 a hearing aid

of support. Neeva is grateful for the 31 and a half hours of help per week she receives but confesses it’s not enough. When she’s unwell, she physically struggles to care for Josh yet her request for 50 hours per week has been rejected, twice. Heather Murray first met Josh two

was fitted. He undergoes regular dental checks and continues

years ago when she volunteered to help a friend conduct dance

occupational therapy, speech therapy and physiotherapy. He

classes for children with disabilities. Currently in her fourth

wears ankle foot orthotics and requires assistance to feed,

year studying physiotherapy, she picks Josh up from school

shower, dress, toilet and medicate himself.

and takes him to the beach, park or shops and Friday nights

The hospital initially supplied aid in the form of a nurse

he cheers on the Wildcats. Heather spends 12 to 15 hours a

who visited every week for a few months. Appointments and

week with Josh and says, “Sometimes you get hung up on the

some equipment is paid for by the public health system but

things that are bad in your life and then you see someone who

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Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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Real L

ife

has been through much

ever able to tell us

worse but enjoying life,

how far he would progress.

that brings you back

He keeps improving, keeps

to the fact we’re really

learning … in every single

lucky to be who we

area through his own

are and have what we

personal care to his language,

have.” Once qualified,

his walking, his use of hands,

Heather plans to focus

everything. It’s brilliant!”

on physiotherapy

Neeva never intended

for children with

Jake to be Josh’s carer but

disabilities.

admits she’d be pleased if

Neeva refers to Josh

they forged a stronger bond

as her man-child. “I’ve had him for 16 and a half years longer

and eventually lived together. Josh is placid and friendly,

than I thought I would. It hasn’t been easy obviously, but it’s

encountering zero bullying at school. Most children are

been worth it.”

predominantly curious or scared. Jake’s attitude to Josh is

He shaves, and black hairs cover his pale legs, but he loves

indifference. He neither gushes over him nor does he resent

Elmo, the zoo, playing on the computer and riding on trains.

him but reacts to people staring and pointing and does look

Josh walks unaided due to twice-weekly botox injections into

out for him. Neeva describes Jake as quiet, shy and wise

his hamstrings, left bicep and ankle which paralyse those

beyond his years.

muscles allowing surrounding muscles to work better. Neeva acknowledges that Josh will probably always require

Neeva isn’t shy. Talking about her boys fulfils a selfish need in her. “Every time I tell the story it’s … cathartic.” It

supervision but she’s proud of his achievements. “He didn’t

doesn’t change the outcome, her struggles continue, but she

actually speak words until he was nine and a half. Nobody was

continues to fight.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

n I s ’ l o o h c S BY BROOKE EVANS-BUTLER

Choosing a school for your child is a big decision – so how do you ensure you make the right choice for your child?

According to ABS Schools Australia, as of 2013 there were 768 government schools (both primary and secondary) in Western Australia. If you want to enrol your child into a local government school, you should note that each school has an ‘enrolment zone’, so you will have to check which school zone your

ll parents want the same thing from their child’s

address falls into. However, even with these school zones

school – for their child to be happy, learn and thrive

in place you do still have some choice when it comes to

in a supportive environment. There are many

choosing a Government school for your child. If you wish to

wonderful government schools in WA but there are many

enrol your child in a government school that is outside of your

other options available, from schools providing a religious-

local government school zone or district (for example, you

based education, to schools that have a teaching philosophy

might wish to enrol your child in a school that is close to a

that differs from the mainstream.

grandparent’s house or to your workplace) you can apply – but

Do your research and talk to the schools and other parents to help make your decision – and remember that you know your child best and what will be the best decision for your child and family. We take a look at the range of schooling options available for your consideration.

why i chose a public school for my child For Mel Hearse, the choice to send her boys Max (9) and Sam (7) to her local government school was an easy one because she says they live in a great school district. “We plan to send them onto the high school as well as we are lucky enough to be in the school district for a high school with a lot of quality programs that many kids apply for out of district, so there was no need to get them into a feeder private school in primary school,” she says. “If we weren’t living here and guaranteed a spot at the high school, I would have explored more private schools but as we do, it was unnecessary.”

GOVERNMENT/PUBLIC

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

a place is not guaranteed. In addition to your options if you are considering

schools, which are government schools that have increased autonomy to make decisions at a local level. Like government schools, independent public schools do not charge tuition fees to parents or have selective enrolment processes. A Department of Education spokesperson says the Australian Government believes students should have access to high quality education with access to the best teachers and an up-to-date and relevant curriculum. “Under the students-first approach, the Australian Government will work with the states and territories, teachers

why i chose a christian school for my child Karen Morton chose a small private Christian school for her girls Laura (8) and Emily (6). “Although we do not practise religion at home, we do believe in Christian values and are happy for our children to learn about God. We love the close ‘family’ atmosphere that our school has, and the smaller class sizes mean more individual attention for students. While we understand that there are always going to be some bad influences wherever they go, we think that in a Christian school they are far more likely to learn in a gentle and positive environment.”

SPECIAL FEATURE

government schooling, there are also independent public

and parents to focus on four key areas: teacher quality, school autonomy, parental engagement and a strong curriculum,” they state. For further information about Government schooling in WA, visit www.education.wa.edu.au

of Independent Schools of Western Australia, says the independent sector has the largest range of schools in the three sectors including Christian, Jewish, Steiner, Montessori, Islamic and Community schools.

INDEPENDENT

“For parents, the wide range of independent schools means

The Association of Independent Schools of Western Australia

they have more say on the type of education they want for

currently has 144 member schools (not including Catholic or

their child,” she says.

Government members), enrolling 68,786 students (as per 2014

Association of Independent Schools of Western Australia

February Census data). Valerie Gould, executive director of the Association

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SPECIAL FEATURE

STEINER

why i chose a steiner school for my child Karen Lacey spent a lot of time researching different styles of teaching and decided on a Steiner school for her daughter Chimaera (5) for a number of reasons. For starters, the sense of community was something Karen wanted for her children. “We don’t have a very large extended family and after moving we lost regular contact with most of our friends. The Steiner school lifestyle seemed (and has so far proven to be) almost like joining a family. It’s a holistic approach that is not just about learning, but a way of life in which cooperation and contribution is promoted and relied upon, freely given and never demanded. I wanted my daughter to grow up feeling like she is part of something bigger than just herself and her immediate family because I believe that tie, which exists for everyone but seems so rarely felt, is crucial to positive mental health and wellbeing.” Karen says this is particularly important to her because Chimaera is on the Autism spectrum. In addition, because Chimaera is ‘face blind’, Karen felt that having a class teacher that stays with the child throughout their schooling instead of changing every year was a great advantage.

Tracey Puckeridge, CEO Steiner Education Australia, says every school has to meet the same curriculum requirements – the difference with Steiner schools is the way they teach. In the Early Childhood sector, experience is based on play in a Steiner school. The children do not use computers or iPads, but learn through imitation. All toys are made from natural materials and the space is set up like a home environment. “The curriculum is based on the developmental needs of the children in each year to engage the child at each stage of their development,” Tracey says. “A unique feature of Steiner education is that children will have the same teacher throughout their primary years,” Tracey says. “This creates the opportunity for strong relationships between teacher, student and the student’s family. One of the highest indications for excellent learning outcomes involves positive student/teacher relationships.” For information on Steiner schools visit www. steinereducation.edu.au

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CATHOLIC 20 percent of students in Australia attend a Catholic school – with just over 747,000 students at 1711 Catholic schools across Australia

Aimee Waller says she will be sending her two year old son, Riley, to a local Catholic school. “We are Catholic and I like the community spirit of a Catholic school,” she says. “I am a Catholic school teacher as well so that helped make the decision.”

SPECIAL FEATURE

why i chose a catholic school for my child

in 2013. According to the Catholic Education Office of Western Australia, there are 161 Catholic

to be Catholic to attend a Catholic school, but enrolment

schools in WA, with almost 70,000

priority is usually given to Catholic students. However,

students.

Catholic schools are very inclusive, so ask your local school

Ross Fox, executive director of the National Catholic Education

about their enrolment procedures. According to Ross, Catholic schools focus on the

Commission, says Catholic schools

development of the whole child. “They are more than just

are very inclusive. “In recent years

test results,” he says. “Catholic schools strive to meet the

the fastest growing student groups

unique needs of every individual student.”

in Catholic education have been

“Catholic schools are animated by the mission and

indigenous students and students

tradition of the Catholic Church stretching over more than

with special needs,” he says.

2000 years,” Ross adds. “In their work they exhibit a deep

If you want to enrol in a Catholic school, you must contact

commitment to Christian values, the example of Jesus Christ

the individual school to put in an application. Submitting

and his teachings. This means Catholic schools often display

an application does not guarantee you placement, and you

a deep commitment to social justice and prioritise the needs

will usually be asked to attend an interview. You do not have

of their local community.”

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SPECIAL FEATURE

MONTESSORI The Montessori philosophy is different to ‘mainstream’ education, with an emphasis on independence, by providing an environment of activities for children to use at their own pace. Christine Harrison, president of Montessori Australia Foundation, says Montessori thinks about the whole child. “Our view of education is as an aid to life – to help them grow from childhood to maturity. Each child is individual… and we encourage each child to follow their own path of learning.”

why i chose a montessori school for my child fond memories of her time there, it Eva Schmalkuche was a Montessori student herself, so with school. “I like that the class sizes sori Montes a to was a simple decision to send her son Jaxon (5) the younger students,” she says. help ts studen are much smaller with a mix of ages, so the older what they want to do, and choose to child the “Their philosophy is attractive because it allows ing with older students socialis , sharing ng they learn things other than the curriculum includi sori – but it’s a fantastic Montes nding surrou and responsibility.” “There is a lot of misperception ing that is not someth fear not should sori grounding,” Eva says. “Parents considering Montes ing.” welcom very is and ion discuss for mainstream – the Montessori community is open

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Montessori long day care centres with programs for babies and toddlers, which may appeal to parents of younger children who want to get a taste for the Montessori philosophy.

SPECIAL FEATURE

Allowing children to work to their own capabilities adds to their concentration and self-esteem, and encourages them to think creatively and independently

For more information visit www.montessori.org.au

HOME SCHOOLING

of ‘multi-age’ groups. For

Parents are the first educators of their children – so why not

example, children aged three

consider home schooling and extend this important role to

to six years will be in the

their everyday schooling? Stuart Chapman, director of Homeschool WA, says parents

same class. Christine says children

choose home schooling for a number of reasons including:

work to their ability with sets

• Bullying. • Not being happy with the academic progress of

of materials in a prepared

their child at school. • Concerns about behaviour. • Concerns

environment, and allowing

with the culture of the school. • Deciding to home school their

children to work to their own

child with a learning difficulty.

capabilities adds to their concentration and self-esteem,

Stuart says there is a lot of support available for parents wanting to take the plunge, however, they need to consider

and encourages them to think creatively and independently.

the time they can commit. “Home education involves a huge

“Montessori has been around for over 100 years and it is proven

commitment on (the parent’s) behalf. In some cases they will

to help the whole child in a holistic way,” she says.

need to drop, reduce or reschedule work commitments, and

She recommends parents go to a Montessori school to

they need to come to grips with some negative attitudes from

see for themselves the philosophy in action and to see how

family and friends who may question a parent’s ability on

Montessori can benefit their child. Christine says there are also

being able to educate their child.”

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SPECIAL FEATURE

why i chose home schooling for my child Nancy Van Ross decided to home school daughter Mackenzie (8) when Mackenzie developed Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). She now also home schools her son, Pheonix (6). “Initially the adjusting period was quite intense as I had a young baby who wasn’t keen on sleeping at the time, however after a couple of months things really started to fall into place,” she says. “Our family loves the flexibility of home schooling and how it caters for each child individually. If parents are considering taking the plunge my only advice is to let your children be your guide, work at their pace and with their interests. We love the home schooling lifestyle and are thrilled we took the plunge.”

gets lots of one-on-one attention. “A parent is a However, he says the advantages are many. Although

highly motivated educator,” he says. “A teacher

some people worry about the opportunity for home schooled

is a paid employee who will never make the sacrifices a

children to socialise with other children, Stuart says home

parent will. Parents will always make the extra effort.”

schooled children learn better social skills because they interact with children and adults of different ages instead of only their same-age peers in the school yard. There are also

For more information about Home Schooling WA visit www. homeschoolwa.com.au To find out further details about home schooling and

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A great way to find out about a school is to go see it in the flesh. ‘Open days’, conducted by some schools, offer an opportunity to view its resources and meet staff. If you can, speak with parents of students already attending the school you are considering. Of course, not everyone is going to have the same opinion of a school, but speaking to a few parents is a good way to get a feel of the school culture. Go to the MySchool website www.myschool.edu.au This website enables you to search profiles of schools, as well as statistical information, resources and performance

Pre-kindy programs Although not compulsory in Western Australia, most parents will enrol their child in kindergarten. However, it is also becoming popular to enrol your child in pre-kindy or ‘three-year-old kindy’ programs. These privately-run programs offer a gentle introduction to schooling and many parents believe they give their children a head start in their schooling life.

SPECIAL FEATURE

FINDING OUT MORE INFORMATION

Note: some Catholic schools offer three-year-old programs, but your child attending this program does not mean you automatically have a place in kindergarten or pre-primary at the school – you still have to ensure you put in your enrolment application forms.

indicators. further afield, you will need to take into consideration travel

MAKING A DECISION

time and public transport (if required).

There are so many school options, so ensure you do your

• The school’s uniform requirements.

research and ask lots of questions to make the best decision

• If your child has a special interest, such as music, sport or

for your child.

languages. Ask the school what programs they offer.

Some things to consider include:

• The school’s policies on homework and bullying.

• Location. As in real estate, location is very important when

• The cost. The expense of uniforms, fees or additional costs

choosing a school. If the best school choice for your child

can vary greatly between schools so it is best to find out

is the government school across the road from your house,

these details when enquiring about enrolment to ensure

then that will be very convenient! If your preferred school is

they fit within your budget.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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dynamic and interactive which makes languagelearning fun through games, songs, textbooks, drama and various activities. Reports are presented to the parents on their children’s progression. The AF Perth is also the only official examination centre in WA for official tests and certifications in French, recognized by all Ministries and Francophone countries. DELF Prim & Junior specifically address children from 8 to 17 y/o. The AF distinguishes itself from other language schools through its genuine blend of learning and cultural immersion including shows for kids. For more information visit www.afperth.com.au or call 9386 7921.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Rich learning at Guildford Grammar Guildford Grammar is a traditional, highly-regarded school that strives to develop the potential of each student through excellent academic teaching, while developing life skills in a well-rounded education.

uildford Grammar School is a thriving independent school of some 1200 students. Over the past century they have forged an enviable reputation for providing a wellrounded education and instilling traditional values. Guildford Grammar School is an Anglican school that welcomes students from all backgrounds, religious or otherwise. All students attend Chapel, where services that are challenging, dramatic, innovative and traditional all have their place. Their Preparatory School caters for boys and girls from Kindergarten to Year 6, offering a rich curriculum and a full suite of support and cocurricular programs. Guildford Grammar School boys only Senior School strives to maximise the potential of each and every student. To support students and staff in this endeavour, they provide outstanding educational facilities, in a disciplined yet caring environment.

A Focus on Life Skills

Guildford Grammar School equips students with key life skills, developing well rounded students who are prepared for the future.

Alongside academic success, Guildford Grammar School equips students with key life skills, developing well rounded students who are prepared for the future, with the capacity to embrace opportunity, and the resilience to cope with adversity. Guildford Grammar School students appreciate the importance of service, and learn to be proactive in taking a civic role. They learn to interact effectively with people of different cultures and religions and appreciate the need to care for others and themselves.

Academic Program At every stage, Guildford Grammar School provides courses that stimulate students’ intellectual development and

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prepare them for progress to the next level. Guildford Grammar School develops a framework for each student, which structures the pattern of their school day and their homework, and which gives their parents regular and intelligible information about their progress and development. Guildford Grammar Schools’ key point of difference, academically, is the Catalyst program, which they have designed specifically for boys in Years 7 to 9. Catalyst has transformed the learning experience for students and equips Junior Secondary boys with the skills they need to thrive in their Senior Schooling years, and beyond. Catalyst is a unique threeyear sequential learning system that develops students’ capabilities, skills and critical thinking. The emphasis on secondary schooling, rather than middle schooling, is an important distinction for this school. By introducing Year 7 into the secondary school, Guildford Grammar School continues to demonstrate their commitment to providing a rigorous and diverse education that empowers all students to achieve personal excellence.

Contact Guildford Grammar School for a Tour Contact Guildford Grammar School for a Tour Regular school tours are held throughout the year and individual tours can be arranged by appointment. The magnificent campus, located along the banks of the Swan River, must be seen to be believed. To arrange a tour, or for further information on opportunities available at Guildford Grammar School, please call (08) 9377 9222 or email registrar@ggs.wa.edu.au

perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

SPECIAL FEATURE

Wesley College empowers students W

esley College, South Perth, was founded in 1923 as a boarding school for boys. Named after John Wesley, the Methodist Church founder, the College now has 1,475 students from a broad range of metropolitan, rural and international backgrounds, including 158 boarding students who call the riverside campus home. A Pre-kindergarten to Year 12 Uniting Church school, the College’s enrolment procedure is non-selective and egalitarian. It has a co-educational Junior School (Pre-kindergarten to Year 4), coeducational Middle School (Year 5 and 6), boys only Middle School (Year 7 and 8) and Senior School (Year 9 to 12). Wesley believes the social and personal competencies gained when boys and girls learn together provides them with important building blocks in social and emotional development. The College offers a range of academic, arts, sport and community service programs including the

Year 8 off-site Katitjin program, a Year 10 Stocktake program and a Community Service program spanning the Middle and Senior Schools. Strong pastoral care and supportive relationships amongst

staff and students are at the heart of Wesley’s community. Wesley is an innovative and caring learning community where students are empowered to lead purposeful lives. The College’s core values of respect, courage, integrity and compassion are at the

heart of its teaching and learning programs. The College’s motto, By Daring & By Doing, is embraced by the community, and the happiness of their students reflects the dedication and time invested in helping pupils maximise their strengths, building self-confidence through achievement in school based-activities. For more information visit www.wesley.wa.edu.au.

Start your Wesley journey Co-education Pre-Kindergarten - Year 6*

We would love to see you at one of our Tour Days in 2014 : •

19 June 2014

•

13 August 2014

•

24 October 2014

•

17 November 2014

To RSVP or for further information please phone us on 08 9368 8032 or email enrol@wesley.wa.edu.au * Co-education will be extended to Year 5 in 2016 and Year 6 in 2017.

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Scotch plants educational seed A

t Scotch College your son will be encouraged to embrace discovery as he explores key concepts related to the world around him. Scotch College is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School that offers a learning program based on the Western Australian and Australian Curriculum from Years 1 to 12. Your son will be nurtured and supported as a valued member of the College community. He will foster friendships and develop his social skills, both in and out of the classroom. Scotch College plants the educational seed and provides an environment that nurtures the growth and development of every boy.

Hands on learning at West Coast Steiner E stablished in 1995, the West Coast Steiner School (WCSS) is an independent, non-denomination school that follows the Australian Steiner Curriculum. Whilst based on the philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, it has been adapted to meet the needs of the changing and demanding world that we live in today. WCSS offers students a strong academic curriculum, which is balanced by a practical, hands-on approach, by the Arts and other speciality programs. It is delivered in a learning environment where children are consistently engaged and challenged, an environment that is inviting and where confidence, self-discipline and independence comes naturally. WCSS is a wonderfully diverse and thriving school offering Playgroup, Kindergarten and Primary Classes 1 through to 6. For further information or to organise to visit WCSS, please call 08 9440 1771 or visit the website www.wcss. wa.edu.au

Steiner Education for Playgroup, Kindergarten and Primary Years 1-7

A Scotch College education is designed to open your son’s mind, and prepare him for life.

*Limited places are available in our 2014 Kindy 5 Program and Years 1 to 7.

West Coast Steiner School prepares children to become creative and collaborative life-long learners who are ready to engage in life beyond primary school. • Warm and nurturing Kindergarten environment • Beautiful outdoor spaces with natural play materials • Rich academic curriculum • Purposeful and relevant learning • Engaging practical and artistic activities For further information please contact our Enrolment Officer

www.scotch.wa.edu.au www.offspringmagazine.com.au

15 Mayfair Street, Nollamara WA 6061 T: 08 9440 1771 F: 08 9207 1532 W: www.wcss.wa.edu.au perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

SPECIAL FEATURE

Hands on learning at West Coast Steiner

stablished in 1995, the West Coast Steiner School (WCSS) is an independent, non-denomination school that follows the Australian Steiner Curriculum. Whilst based on the philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, it has been adapted to meet the needs of the changing and demanding world that we live in today. WCSS offers students a strong academic curriculum, which is balanced by a practical, hands-on approach, by the Arts and other speciality programs. It is delivered in a learning environment where children are consistently engaged and challenged, an environment that is inviting and where confidence, self-discipline and independence comes naturally. WCSS is a wonderfully diverse and thriving school offering Playgroup, Kindergarten and Primary Classes 1 through to 6. For further information or to organise to visit WCSS, please call 08 9440 1771 or visit the website www.wcss.wa.edu.au

Riverlands Early Childhood Program R

iverlands School has a Montessori Playgroup on campus catering for children aged one to three. The environment is rich with purposeful experiences designed to promote the development of the senses. School starts at three years of age, with multi-age classes. These have a positive effect - the younger children learn from the older children and the older children are mentors and provide leadership. The Montessori philosophy and ethos helps children to develop their character through self-discipline, independence and responsibility. For further information please visit www.riverlands. wa.edu.au or telephone 9250 6444. Tours and observations are available.

A Future School ... Here and Now

A Riverlands journey now will give your child an advantage later Children learn best when learning is directed at their own pace, in an environment specially designed to fit them. It becomes their learning, their way in their space. No wonder our graduating students leave with a reputation for a love of learning. We’re in the beautiful Swan Valley with families from near and far. We can take your children from 1-3 years in our Playgroup, and from 3 years through to Year 6 graduation, and they can start at any time. Why not start today? We have limited vacancies in all classes so find us today and come for a personal tour.

‘I wish I went to a school like this when I was young’ - BPCS Parent -

Innovation

Integration

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Pre Kindy - College

Taking Enrolments Now! The School that Kids and Parents Love

299 Arthur Street, Dayton, WA 6055 Phone: 08 9250 6444 Fax: 08 9250 6333 Email: admin@riverlands.wa.edu.au

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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FOOD & NUTRITION

Superfoods Kate Bullen has identified 10 inexpensive and easily-accessible Superfoods that help keep you and your family healthy now and in the future.

uperfoods help keep you at your healthiest right now

car is protected from rust by its special paint coating.

and are protective for your future health, proven

Antioxidants can help prevent diabetes and heart disease.

to reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease and

I have included many foods on my list which are high in

diabetes. I’ve selected some Superfoods that are:

antioxidants. Many Superfoods are rich in phytonutrients – which are

Readily available and affordable.

High in nutrients including antioxidants, phytonutrients,

what give vegetables their strong colours. There are many, many phytonutrients that have

vitamins and minerals.

been identified in food – some of the more common

Whole foods without processing, or only minimal

phytonutrients include carotenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids

processing to get it from farm to plate. I have also thought about Superfoods in the life of a family and aimed to include foods that easily fit into a

and isoflavonoids. Phytonutrients and antioxidants may be emerging as a

family’s diet. What you won’t see on my list of Superfoods

group of compounds found in foods that have the potential

is expensive and hard to find foods.

to reduce the risk of many lifestyle diseases. But, a word of caution, phytonutrients and antioxidants should be eaten

What is a Superfood?

as part of whole foods. Don’t go looking in the pharmacy aisle for a pill or supplement that

I have included foods that are superior to their counterparts in terms of what nutrients they contain, so essentially you are getting a good bang for your buck, and these are foods that are available all year round. Antioxidants from wholefoods are a great way to protect your body. Antioxidants in foods protect our body from free radical damage – much like a

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Antioxidants in foods protect our body from free radical damage – much like a car is protected from rust by its special paint coating.

contains phytonutrients or antioxidants because we just don’t know if it is the phytonutrients and antioxidants on their own, or the combination with fibre or even the vitamins and minerals that are found in these Superfoods, that provide their health benefits. So the best advice is to eat them as a whole food.

perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

FOOD & NUTRITION

TOP 10

Superfoods

BROCCOLI AND CAULIFLOWER Broccoli and cauliflower are part of the cruciferous

family of vegetables and take their name from the shape of their flowers. I have listed these vegetables first because I really do believe they are superior to other vegetables. This group of vegetables has been given a gold star time and time again as they consistently show up as having the potential to reduce our risk of cancer. That alone is a huge reason to be eating more of these vegetables! They are a great source of phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamin A, C & E and folate; they contain fibre to improve our bowel health; and they are a source of calcium. These vegetables can be eaten raw,

Superfood Jokes :)

lightly steamed or stir-fried.

What is a ghost’s favourite fruit? Boo-berries!

BABY SPINACH & KALE Baby spinach is an excellent source of fibre,

iron, vitamins A, C, E and folate – excellent for

Why did the tomato blush? Because he saw the salad dressing!

vegetarians, while Kale is a great source of vitamins A and C and a good source of calcium as it has the most calcium of any vegetable. Both baby spinach and kale are from the family of leafy green vegetables and are high in antioxidants and carotenoids – an important phytochemical to help reduce our risk of some cancers. These leafy green vegetables are great added to salads

Knock knock! Who’s there? Bean Bean who? Bean a while since I last saw you!

from seeds as well as it does from other foods such as salmon). But don’t let that

or are easily hidden in casseroles or pasta sauces. Or you can add a handful of baby spinach into a smoothie for

stop you – the healthy fat in nuts and seeds can help keep our

some extra kick – we call them Superman Smoothies!

heart healthy and our bowels regular – both very good things!

ALMONDS AND CHIA SEEDS Once upon a time, nuts and seeds were shunned upon

OATS AND QUINOA Don’t be afraid of carbohydrates and grainy foods!

because they are high in fat. But guess what? We know that the

Choose grains that have very little processing, and include

fat is mainly mono-unsaturated and it is good fat! Almonds are

them as only one quarter of your meal – not half your plate.

a fantastic source of fibre and vitamin E – which means they

In winter, oats are a great way to start the day as porridge,

are high in antioxidants. You don’t need to have your almonds

or you can eat the oats raw with your favourite toppings –

activated, but when choosing try for unroasted as the

great as an afternoon snack. The main reason I have

heating can destroy the thiamin in almonds. Add onto your breakfast, into a smoothie or enjoy in moderation as a snack. Chia seeds are a bit newer to the market and are a great way to add some extra nutrients to meals or baking. Chia are packed full of fibre and antioxidants (it also contains omega-3 fats but unfortunately our body

doesn’t convert the omega 3

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

included these as a Superfood is because they

Include two salmon meals each week and you will be getting enough omega-3 fats to meet your dietary needs

are wholegrains, which are a fantastic source of antioxidants, phytonutrients, fibre and B group vitamins including thiamin, riboflavin and niacin. We know that oats are a great source of beta-glucan which can help control cholesterol levels. Aim for half a cup as a serve

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carrot and is what makes them orange. They also have

✓ Carrots really do help us to see better! The

beta carotene in carrots is converted by our body to Vitamin A which helps with vision. ✓ Tomatoes are really a fruit not a vegetable because they have seeds in the middle, but we usually eat them as a vegetable.

many other phytonutrients, antioxidants, along with fibre, potassium, and vitamins B6, C and K. Research

FOOD & NUTRITION

Fun Facts

has shown that diets rich in beta-carotene can be protective against many types of cancer. Delicious fresh, but also easily added to every cooked meal from stir-fry to soups.

✓ Wherever possible leave the skin on fruits and vegetables as many of the vitamins are in the skin.

SALMON Salmon is well known for being a fantastic

source of omega-3 fats which we know can reduce our risk of cardiovascular disease. Include two salmon meals each week and you will be getting enough omega-3 fats to meet your dietary needs. As an added bonus, salmon is a great source of Vitamin A – giving it a gold star for containing antioxidants. Enjoy it fresh or canned, and you can of course have it raw, poached, steamed, baked or grilled. So many delicious options!

Garlic has been shown to have a protective effect against some types of cancer, and is a great way to add flavour to food without unnecessary fat

TOMATOES Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene – which is

the phytonutrient that gives tomatoes their colour. Diets high in lycopene have been shown to reduce the risk of prostate and some other cancers and heart disease. Tomatoes are also great sources of vitamin C and vitamin A. Tomatoes are readily available all year round and you can enjoy them fresh or canned.

of these foods to help control your overall energy intake. Add some fruit, yoghurt and you will have yourself a Supermeal.

BLUEBERRIES The intense blue colour of blueberries proves their

You could even go one step further and make an overnight oat

nutrient worth – they are packed full of flavonoids (a type of

and quinoa pudding for breakfast – yum!

phytonutrient), antioxidants, vitamin C and fibre. Enjoy them fresh or for an easy, on-hand and more affordable option keep a

LEGUMES AND LENTILS

pack in your freezer. They are delicious eaten frozen as a snack,

Legumes and lentils are foods that are often

or add them to some greek yoghurt, cereal, a smoothie or to use

overlooked in our western diet. There is growing evidence

in baking.

to show that legumes and lentils can be beneficial in reducing our risk of diabetes and heart disease. Legumes and lentils are readily available canned – just look for

GARLIC Garlic is a member of the onion family and a great

varieties without added salt – or you can have them dried

source of phytonutrients. For a milder option choose garlic

or even frozen. Add some cannellini beans into your next

chives. You can enjoy garlic raw, in cooking or roasted. Garlic

casserole or soup (kids won’t even notice!), have some

has been shown to have a protective effect against some types

baked beans at breakfast, or try some edamame as a great

of cancer, and is a great way to add flavour to food without

snack or addition to a meal.

unnecessary fat. I would encourage you to trying including more of these

CARROTS

Superfoods on your plate and maybe even as a swap for other

Carrots are a staple vegetable that are versatile, cheap

less-super foods. For this your health will thank you!

and available all year round. They’re a great snack – try serving

Kate Bullen is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Mum

some on your next dip or cheese platter for added nutrition

to three young kids. For more advice from Kate visit www.

and crunch. Beta-carotene is one of the main phytonutrients in

dietitianonline.com.au

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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring

TRAVEL

Fwitlhying kids

BY CLAIRE SMOKER, EMMA STOREY AND NGALA EDUCATION TEAM

Ngala provides some simple, effective tips to make travelling with young children a smoother experience.

ravelling with children on aeroplanes can be a

• Finger puppets

daunting thought. Whether it’s your first time, or

• Crayons with colouring books

you are a frequent flyer with children, preparation

and reading picture books

and well rested parents are often the key to reducing any

• Electronic devices, such as an

stress.

IPad (This should be used

Depending on the age of your child, it may be a good idea

sparingly as too much screen

to involve them in your travel plans. Toddlers often have

time can over-stimulate a

short memories and concentration spans, so re- visiting

child, thus impacting their

the subject frequently and reading books about travel or

sleep and behavior).

aeroplane travel may assist in reducing anxieties about change.

A good idea is to occasionally allow your child (under your supervision) to

It may be beneficial to contact your travel agent before you fly to ascertain if it’s possible to request seats with extra leg room or a seat with a ‘travel cot’ facility if travelling with a small baby. Keeping young children busy and distracted is often the key to a more enjoyable journey. Young children may be distracted for a little while by the new environment, however this won’t last long, so make sure you pack

walk around the cabin as this will have the

Baby products which are exempt from the100 ml allowance are baby milk, sterilised water, juice, baby food and wet wipes.

plenty of toys. It is handy to pack some

comfortable with their environment and to stretch their legs and use up some energy. Children, like adults, may find long journeys uncomfortable so dress your child in comfortable clothes. Make sure you pack extra clothes for yourself and child in case of spills. Airlines do not provide nappies or wipes so be sure you have enough for the journey. It is a good idea to pack your child’s

toys that your child is familiar with as well as

favourite pyjamas and sleep aid e.g. a blanket

a few small new toys. Wrapping them up can often create

or favourite soft toy as this will promote familiarity and

a welcomed distraction. Suitable and practical toys and

comfort.

activities include:

multi purpose of helping them become

Toddlers may often be fussy eaters – this is part of their

• Sticker books

normal development. Expecting them to eat aeroplane

• Imaginative play toys e.g. a teddy with clothes and band aids

food may be wishful thinking. It’s a good idea to phone the

Offspring | winter 2014 | perth

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TRAVEL The change in cabin pressure during aeroplane take-off and landing can often upset a child’s ears. To avoid this sensation try to feed your baby or toddler during take-off and landing or remember to bring a dummy if that is what your child uses. The sucking mechanism can help relieve the pressure in the eardrum. If your child is older, it may be an idea to allow them to have a sugar-free lolly or dried fruit to suck on. Always remember that a wellrested and calm parent will adapt easier to any situation. Your child will often mimic your emotions and therefore the more relaxed you are about the situation at hand, the easier your child will find the transition to travelling. Ngala provides sleep workshops that families find useful if babies and children are struggling to return to healthy sleep patterns following a holiday, visit www.ngala.com.au.

airline or check the website for in-flight meal plans before flying. In addition, pack some of your child’s favourite nutritional snacks in a sealable container to use throughout the flight. Cabin crew will warm formula and baby food for you. Baby products which are exempt from the 100 ml allowance are baby milk, sterilised water, juice, baby food and wet wipes. Parents however need to remember that they are restricted to the 100 ml of aerosol and liquids, and also the products need to fit nicely into a 20cm x 20cm transparent bag.

Bali Baby Hire provides a wide range of baby equipment and related services to assist with all your needs for traveling to Bali with babies and young children. Stocking only high quality brand named products that are clean, safe and comfortable. Bali Baby Hire will make life as easy for you on your holiday in Bali just as it would be in your home.

10% discount on hire items ✔ car seats for Offspring ✔ strollers readers ✔ prams ✔ high chairs ✔ bathtubs ✔ safety bed rails ✔ safety gates ✔ play pens ✔ baby monitors ✔ fun toys and much more Baby sitting, VIP fast track airport service, transfers and tours with car seats fitted also available.

If you or your child requires medication then be mindful that prescription medications require a letter from a health practitioner and non-prescription medications are permitted by the ‘enough for the flight’ rule. For breastfeeding mothers, it may be a good idea to bring a feeding pillow, or any other ‘prop’ that you have found useful for breastfeeding. It is important to keep you and your child hydrated with water during the flight. Ask your flight attendant for regular drinks of water.

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aby’ to tr m cells s co e c othe at them an be s rd to selve r com s an red patib d le mem bers family .

Now is the time to get the facts on cord blood banking and decide who should store your baby’s cord blood stem cells. 1. Your baby’s umbilical cord blood is an invaluable resource as

it contains their stem cells. These stem cells can be frozen and stored indefinitely for future use. 2. You only have one chance to save your baby’s stem cells - at the time of their birth. The cord blood will otherwise be discarded. Collection is quick, safe and painless. 3. Cord blood stem cells are routinely used to treat patients with cancers, blood disorders and immune system deficiencies. 4. Cryosite

pioneered private autologous(1) cord blood banking in Australia in 2002 and since 2011 Cryosite has been licensed to provide a “Family Cord Blood Banking” service for

Australian families(2). Family banking represents a significant new era in cord blood banking in Australia and greatly extends the potential uses. 5. Since 2002 Cryosite’s scientists have banked cord blood for thousands of Australian children in our own TGA licensed laboratories. With a decade’s experience in cord blood banking, Cryosite continues to provide the scientific expertise and financial stability(3) essential to confidently store your child’s stem cells for your family’s future use.

Need more information? For more information call and talk to our friendly cord blood experts on 1800 220 410 or download a comprehensive brochure from our website.

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References: 1. “Autologous” means your child’s cord blood can only be used to treat themselves. 2. Cryosite’s cord blood laboratories are fully licensed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (Lic No MI-18072008-LI-002488-11). 3. Cryosite is Australia’s only publically listed private Cord Blood Bank (ASX code “CTE”).