Winter 2014
Australia’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
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EDITOR’S NOTE
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THE CONTRIBUTORS
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PLAY TIME We’ve found some stylish and functional toys for your child.
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WINTER SNUGGLES Pyjamas have never been more stylish and cute!
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SLEEP LIKE A BABY Quality baby furniture & gorgeous décor make for a beautiful sleeping space for you baby.
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A LIFE LESS ORDINARY A true professional, Kasey Chambers appears to maintain normalcy in a life that is anything but.
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STEM CELL SAVIOUR Brother saves life with his cord blood stem cells, a miracle treatment that’s available now to all new parents.
FUNNY MUMMY 26
WINTER IS COMING Ari discusses the challenges of winter with kids.
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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.
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
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FEATURE STORY
30
BUSINESS MUM
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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.
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MEM FOX: BOOKS VS APPS A true advocate of literacy for children, Mem Fox has her concerns about the role of technology for young children.
DAD’S WORD
CELEBRITY BABY
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MAN ABOUT THE HOUSE Gary explores whether time off at home can ever been too much of a good thing.
SINGLE CELEBRITY SUCCESS We hear from five Celebrity parents on being single, dating and raising their kids.
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
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67 42
INTERNET PICKS Our selection of websites offering great products for your family.
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INTERIOR DESIGN 52
WINTER WARMTH Check out some bedroom décor suggestions for your child to beat the winter blues.
FOOD AND NUTRITION
REAL LIFE 54
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.
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.
FAMILY TRAVEL
80 FLYING WITH KIDS Ngala provides some simple, FAMILY FUN IN NSW! effective tips to make traveling Whether it’s a weekend you want with young children a smoother or a few weeks, NSW has it all. From experience the beautiful beaches to the Snowy Mountains NSW has it covered! 82 PARTY DIRECTORY
SPECIAL FEATURE
SPECIAL FEATURE 58
58
77
SCHOOL’S IN Choosing a school for your child is a big decision – so how to you ensure you make the right choice for your child?
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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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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF THEATRE
at Lend Lease Darling Quarter Theatre home of Monkey Baa Theatre Company across from the Darling Quarter children’s playground in Darling Harbour
VISION To inspire young minds and excite the inner child
MISSION Creating exceptional theatre experiences for young people by bringing to life uniquely Australian stories
Monkey Baa Theatre Company presents
TUES 8 - SAT 19 JULY
at 11am and 1pm For Ages 3 - 7 years
In this charming adaptation of Mem Fox’s best-selling picture book, follow the surprising journey of a magic hat as it flies through your imagination with shadow puppetry, song, rhythm and movement by three blundering clowns.
created by Drop Bear Theatre
SAT 20 - SAT 27 SEPT
TUE 30 SEPT - SAT 4 OCT
PRINCIPAL PARTNER
PARTNER
GOVERNMENT PARTNER
for more information & to book www.monkeybaa.com.au or call 8624 9340
O
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
survival and her struggle to provide
black on black, white and denim and
mastectomy (the same gene that
them with adequate support.
black and white, according to our
afflicted Angelina Jolie) in ‘The
Photo: Hilary Adamson, www.hilaryadamsonphotography.com.au
Welcome to Winter Offspring!
Literacy advocate and acclaimed
Stylist, Elise.
children’s author, Mem Fox, chats with us about her concerns for young children and too much technology in ‘Mem Fox: books vs apps’ (p. 44). 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. 58). And as Superfoods are all the rage, Offspring Dietitan, Kate Bullen, has identified 10 inexpensive and easilyaccessible super foods that help keep you and your family
Interiors stylist, Jane Millington,
Lucky One’ (p. 30). Another Real
healthy now and in the future (p. 77).
has selected some stunning Winter
Life story that renews the power of
We hope you enjoy this issue and
Warming décor items for children’s
the old adage of wanting a “healthy
please stay in touch with us via our
bedrooms, in which she suggests you
baby” is ‘Twice the trauma’ (p. 54),
Facebook page!
snuggle up with your precious ones in
in which brave mum, Neeva, shares
a beautiful knit blanket or warm up
her journey of having twins born
with some Wintery wallpaper (p. 58).
11 weeks premature, their fight for
We love our family lifest KATE DURACK EDITOR
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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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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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.”
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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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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We deliver more than just babies Prince of Wales Private Hospital is located in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney and offers premium maternity services. We understand that child birth is a special experience and we aim to provide the best possible experience by offering personalised birthing care. Catering for over 2,500 births per year our maternity service has highly experienced delivery suite staff, 24 hour Midwife and medical cover, 24 hour theatre access and 24 hour on call Anaesthetists and Neonatologists. In preparation for your birth we offer a range of comprehensive antenatal education classes on the labour, birth and parenting process, led by our experienced Midwives. We have spacious and comfortable birthing rooms each with modern equipment, television, refreshment facilities and ensuite bathroom. Spend private time bonding with your new baby in our postnatal accommodation rooms, where you will be fully supported by our Midwives, Lactation Consultants and Physiotherapists. Our Level 2 Special Care Nursery is available for babies that require a little extra support after birth, so you can be rest assured that the care provided for you and your baby is first class. As an extension of our postnatal care service we are proud to offer eligible mothers the ‘Little Luxuries’ program at the Crowne Plaza Coogee Beach as an alternative to in-hospital care. For further information on having your baby at Prince of Wales Private Hospital please contact our Maternity Bookings Coordinator on 02 9650 4693 or email powprivate.maternity@healthscope.com.au
www.powprivate.com.au Level 6, Prince of Wales Private Hospital, Barker Street, Randwick NSW 2031
Rubbabu soft toys, www.uberandklein.com.au
! e m i T y a l P
Toys can be fun, functional and funky all at the same time. Here are some good quality & stylish finds for your child.
Miniio dollhouse, www.uberandklein.com.au
Le Toy Van Honeybake Home Collection, www.limetreekids.com.au and www.sweetcreations.com.au
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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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NSW is a great place for a Winter family adventure! Take a short trip and enjoy a perfect mix of events, activities and attractions for the whole family. Below is just a sample of the exciting events happening in NSW. If it’s on in NSW, it’s on visitnsw.com
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Strictly Ballroom The Musical
The much-loved Australian film that inspired the world to dance comes to life on stage.
Sydney Lyric Theatre, The Star Now Showing
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Chill Out
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The Peak Festival
Holden State of Origin II
Perisher Valley 6 – 9 June 2014
ANZ Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park 18 June 2014
A family friendly music festival in the snow with kid’s stage, dancing, storytelling and snow play activities all weekend!
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A family festival combined with market stalls and many children activities including interactive science and engineering, street entertainment, carnival rides and snow for the kids to play in!
Gloucester 26 July 2014
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FOXTEL A -League All Stars v Juventus
Juventus FC, the most successful club in Italy’s history will bring a full-strength team to Sydney to play against the FOXTEL A-League All Stars!
ANZ Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park 10 August 2014
See Rugby League’s longest-running rivalry between the NSW Blues and the QLD Maroons, at the Blues home ground!
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The Lion King
Seen by over 70 million people, Disney’s landmark musical event is a worldwide phenomenon that will redefine your expectations of theatre. Best seats available midweek.
Capitol Theatre, Sydney Now Showing until 31 August 2014
If it’s on in NSW it’s on visitnsw.com Please note that events are subject to change or cancellation (check relevant website for further details prior to the event). Destination NSW acknowledges and appreciates all photographic images supplied by each event owner for use in this advertisement. The Lion King - credit Deen van Meer © Disney.
Apple Park PJ’s – cute and eco friendly. Organic Cotton $50 – sizes 6months to 4years.
Winter snuggles Pyjamas have never been more stylish, with natural fibres from Petite Papinelle and organic winter suits from Apple Park. Super cute!
Rubbabu Cars – for kids who play a little rough! Soft and squishy and saves tears! From $15
Available from Uber + Klein, www.uberandklein.com.au
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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
Petite Papinelle. PJ’s - $40 from 3 months to 6 years. Beanies for babes 1 month to 6yo $32 - $36.50
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sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
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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.
K
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
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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 | sydney
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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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sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
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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
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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 | sydney
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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
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
21
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.
22
Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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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
24
We recorded up in Byron a few weeks ago. We just went in
Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
Wonderful stuff.
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
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hen the family of a 10-month-old boy received the devastating news that their son had been diagnosed
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“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
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thriving. And his family couldn’t be more grateful. Collecting and
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
25
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.
N
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.
02
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.
04
All Petri Dishes run around room looking flushed.
Unfortunately, the kid building up his immune system directly
05
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
08
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.
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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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12
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
21
Husband serves dinner.
Son and me go home and feel hot, flushed and as
22
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.
16
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
Comfi Caprice 6 MTHS TO 8 YRS*
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
24
27
our Bubonic Plague status. Husband tells me he
Thirty minutes later husband
returns. Looks flushed.
26
annoyingly happy. Explain about
17
23
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.
*All references to age are to an average proportioned child. Children vary in shapes and sizes. The ages outlined above is an approximation only.
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
27
1.
7.
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.
6.
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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
2
10.
When juggling parenting with errands, it’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
4.
3
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.
5.
9.
LAIDBACK BAG With your details in the clothes, keep your bag neutral, without too much fuss. Think leather shoulder hobos and oversized totes.
4
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
5
Shoes play a huge role in the complete look. For sophistication, ankle boots with cut out toes are one of this season’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
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
29
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.
B
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 isn’t brave or
courageous. 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
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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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Real Life through gruelling treatment,” she says. “Those families that
was diagnosed at 44 and her great grandma at 68
face cancer are brave and courageous. I just did the best I
years old. “I grew up in a world defined by cancer,” she says. “I was
could with the information I had. “I was given forewarning to save my life and I chose to use it. “A drop of prevention really is worth a kilo of cure.” Krystal also acknowledges her innate determination to escape the “cancer curse” that 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 and ovarian cancer up to 50 percent. Yet despite those odds everyone in my family who carries the gene has developed cancer and most haven’t won the fight.”
in a family where pretty much every woman didn’t have any breasts. It was confusing environment for a young girl to learn about her body. It meant I grew up being scared that I was going to get cancer, very scared. “At 16, I remember running to my mum saying I’d found
I was given forewarning to save my life and I chose to use it.
“Of the 25 women in our extended family, 80 per cent of them died from cancer. We are fortunate though, my
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 which she airs with brutal honesty in her book. Today, she reminisces about that
sinister time with light-hearted humour. “Since my book launch, my mum Julie has received a
mum and Nan are still here, some of the very few women
lot of messages of support and sympathy because I was a
in my family to be bearing the scars and fighting through
horrible teenager, just awful,” she says with a chuckle in
recurrences.”
her voice. “If you had met me then and before my surgery
Krystal was just 14 years old when her mum was first diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36. Her grandmother
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
and known how negative I was and the way I felt about my old breasts it would be easy to see the transformation I
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
31
It meant I grew up being scared that I was going to get cancer, very scared. people tested for the BRCA gene fault [the same as Angelina Jolie] in Australia. I was 18 when they were tested,” she says. 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 prospects caused Krystal debilitating anxiety attacks and insomnia. “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. “And I was very alone. There was nobody my age anywhere who was making any other choices besides vigilance and screening and the medical system only had support in place for cancer sufferers. There was nothing have endured to be where I am at now. It is like the sun has finally started shining.”
available if you wanted to choose a preventative path.” Over the next few years Krystal blindly navigated the
Despite her heightened risk for carrying the gene fault
alternative options, but due to a sheer lack of resources and
and developing cancer, Krystal wasn’t emotionally ready to
support at the time in Australia the journey was physically
be tested until she was 22 and holding her first born child.
and emotionally isolating.
“My mum and my Nan were actually among the first
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 become the youngest American to opt for a preventative double mastectomy with reconstruction at 23 years old. Through their 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 me in a negative way and decided I too wanted a double mastectomy,” she says. “My husband was incredibly supportive. 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
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
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Real Life professionals it was termed ‘radical’ surgery. My plastic
surrounding her surgery was incredibly daunting, because
surgeon couldn’t even show me a photo of a patient who
other than Lindsay she hadn’t found anyone else that had
had been through a preventative mastectomy. But for
opted for this preventative approach.
me it was an opportunity to take control of my family’s
“I wondered where the other BRCA positive women were and why they weren’t talking about it and I swore to myself
hereditary health and beat this curse. “Ask any woman that has cancer if they had been told
that I never wanted another woman to feel as alone as I did
beforehand they would get it, what would they do? I had
at that moment,” she says. “I knew I had an obligation to ensure every high-risk woman didn’t walk the
that piece of paper that told me cancer was
journey alone and I could use my experience
coming. I reacted.”
to make a positive change. It was a
The surgery was scheduled for
profound moment.”
March 2009. Krystal was just 25 years old and then had
Krystal explains the actual
two young sons. But after
mastectomy procedure as very different to a boob job
a routine mammogram picked up suspicious
and disputes any likening
changes in the breast
between the two with all tissue needing to
tissue, her surgery was rushed through in
be removed including
November 2008.
nipples. An additional surgery was necessary for
However bold and
the reconstruction with
confident she may
expanders set in place
appear today, Krystal
and pumped up every
says the time
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33
Real Life “There are some 240,000
three weeks to stretch the skin to house the implants, which were
Australian men and women
placed in yet another surgery.
who potentially carry a genetic predisposition to breast, ovarian
Krystal required a further surgery to replace her initial implants after
or prostate cancer and it is my
one rotated out of position.
mission to find those people and help them make life saving and
After her surgery and still in her hospital bed, Krystal took the
life altering decisions and support
first steps to making monumental
them through that.” Her dreams continue
changes to the lives of people touched by BRCA and established
to flourish with the recent
Pink Hope, Australia’s first online
employment of an online genetic
community for people at high risk
counsellor to ensure high risk
of developing cancer and their
families get the professional support they need outside of the
families.
health care environment. From
It didn’t take long for Pink Hope to gain a sea of followers with its
here, Krystal envisages a finance
website currently receiving more
program to assist families not coping with the costs of dealing
than 1 million hits in peak times, plus supporting a forum of over 2,500 members and more than 50,000 social media
with heredity cancer. The success of Pink Hope has led Krystal to receive
followers. “Last year when news broke of Angelina Jolie’s decision
accolades such as the 2012 New South Wales Young
to remove her breasts there was a 701 per cent increase in
Australian of the Year finalist and a finalist for the InStyle
people accessing our services. The website crashed,” she says.
Audi Women of Style Scholarship, the Harpers Bazaar Woman of Influence award in 2011 and the Warringah Young Citizen of the Year in 2010.
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Along with her charity, modern medicine has rapidly advanced too. The now 30-year-old is being applauded for her decision to proceed with having her fallopian tubes and one of her ovaries removed in the coming months to reduce her chance of getting ovarian cancer. And at 35 she plans to have the other ovary taken out. “One day my kids will realise I am a different mum to what I could have been had I not had the surgery and that the decisions I made were just as much for them as they were for me,” she says. “My mum gave me letters on my wedding day that she had written in case the worst happened because she didn’t know if she would make it. I feel that I won’t have to write those letters in those circumstances to my children. I have done all I can.” Her mum now lives next door to Krystal and her family, clearly the wicked teenage years are a mere memory as Krystal boasts she is privileged to have her dearest friend
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just a stone throw away. “My life today revolves around my four children, my three human babies, Riley, 9, Jye, 6, and my baby girl Bonnie soon to be 4, and Pink Hope. It is like having another child, I gave life to it, put so much energy into it and it fills me with so much pride. “I may have lost my breasts, but I gained my life.”
34
Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
Mother & baby unit
cares for new mums
The Mother & Baby unit at St John of God Hospital Burwood is the only inpatient unit in NSW offering admission for mothers experiencing perinatal depression, anxiety and other related conditions.
W
St John of God actively encourages partner involvement
omen and their partners may go through a wide range
and supports new parents to learn skills to care for their baby.
of emotional experiences during pregnancy and the
Partners can stay overnight for a nominal charge.
year following birth (the perinatal period).
How to refer for admission? Perinatal Depression & Anxiety are treatable
To make a referral, call Burwood Hospital reception on
Having to deal with so many changes during pregnancy and
(02) 9715 9200 and ask for the Admissions Co-ordinator. A
the year following birth can place some women at risk of
referral letter from your doctor is necessary. Most major
developing depression, anxiety or other less common mental
health insurers cover the cost of these programs depending
health problems, such as bipolar disorder and puerperal
on the level of individual cover.
(postpartum) psychosis. With proper support and treatment, women will recover fully from the symptoms of Perinatal Depression, Anxiety and other related perinatal conditions.
How are St John of God services different? The philosophy at St John of God is to provide holistic care to
New Specialist Mother-Baby Unit
mothers, their babies and their partners. Their professional team consists of perinatal specialists including psychiatrists, psychologists, paediatricians, mental health and mothercraft nurses and parent-infant therapists. The new centre provides multidisciplinary specialist perinatal mental health care, including care offered by Perinatal Mental Health expert Professor Marie-Paule Austin.
Inpatient Programs The Mother & Baby Unit is a 12 bed purpose built unit. It is currently the only unit of its type in NSW. Their inpatient facility provides treatment and support for mothers with perinatal depression, anxiety and other related conditions. Mothers can be admitted with their babies up to the age of 12 months. Providing care for the mother’s mental health enables her to care for her baby. The underlying philosophy of the Mother & Baby unit is to help mothers and babies bond, and for infants to develop a secure attachment to their primary caregiver. Caregivers also provide assistance with sleep and feeding issues.
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
The only Unit in NSW offerering admission for mothers with Postnatal Depression and babies. Optimising partner & family involvement in the care program. Providing holistic, team-based care by a multidisciplinary team, including Perinatal Mental Health expert Prof Marie-Paule Austin.
www.beatbabyblues.com.au To make a referral phone 9715 9200
Hospitality I Compassion I Respect I Justice I Excellence sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
35
BUSINESS MUM
Mumpreneur Mel Seears shares with Offspring how she developed an innovative product into a sustainable business she can work from home.
A
mother of
N
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
36
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 | sydney
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
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.”
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
She also says there are some downsides: being selfemployed 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.
there with a great product idea they think would work for kids? “The secret to
success is long hours and
Mel also provides mentoring for others looking to launch 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.”
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
BUSINESS MUM
things such as stickers
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
37
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.
I
drop-offs, homework and extra-curricular 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
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
my life. After my daily workout, I’d potter
“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.”
around on the computer for a bit, emailing contacts about 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
38
Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
having me around to herself having a full time job
an impending deadline looming. Unfortunately, I’m not
keeping me positive. It was bang in the middle of the hot,
quite at JK Rowling’s earning capacity so there was the
sprawling summer school holidays and she was having a
minor issue of the mortgage that still needed paying each
hard time deciding whether it was me or the kids she
month, but life was great – for real this time.
wanted out of the house more.
And just as I’d got my head around it all,
And then, through much coaching and at least 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
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
nearly every ball of The Ashes. I went to
about as much as years ago when they
the beach most days. We had barbeque
meant party time, and the sight of a
dinners at 5 o’clock. I was getting into 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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sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
39
PREGNANCY & BIRTH
The birth
is just the tip of the
iceberg During pregnancy there’s intense preparation to minimise potential stresses of the birth. However there are many other challenges parents will need to confront.
B
e a fly on the wall at any ante natal group and you
if you were lucky your baby was born healthy and well.
conversations between first time expectant parents
Now you’ve got to make decisions about screening and
is the actual delivery, what to expect, how to cope, the
maybe odd findings on an anatomy scan. There are a lot of
recovery. The reality is however, that chances are, until
decisions that parents now have to face.
you’re in labour with your second baby, it’ll have faded from your memory against the myriad of so many other decisions and challenges you’ve faced. Sydney Adventist Hospital Dr John Keogh who has been
It’s our job as Obstetricians to take them through that, demystify it and make all that knowledge user friendly.” Changes to the availability of extended and experienced family helpers can also present challenges.
an Obstetrician for 21 years says that while childbirth
“Having the right people and place around you is
itself hasn’t changed much since he delivered his first
important. Just after childbirth can be a disorienting
baby, technological advances have and this has caused
time and a little bit disconcerting. Parents are often sleep
different challenges.
deprived, and may need support with settling their baby
“Testing around pregnancy has changed and it allows us to know more about the baby in advance and it can cause stress” says Dr Keogh. “These days parents are forced to make a myriad of decisions that they didn’t previously have to make.
40
In days gone by, you fell pregnant and 9 months later
won’t be surprised to hear the main focus of the
Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
and breastfeeding. Probably more tears are shed about breastfeeding than anything else on the ward. Everybody imagines that the person in the next room is putting that baby on and it’s like all the nature films where you see the antelope drop
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
PREGNANCY & BIRTH on the savannah and immediately get up and begin feeding. The reality is totally different. What people need to understand that breastfeeding is all learned behaviour- it’s not reflex. Mothers and babies both have to learn how to breastfeed. Midwifes, lactation consultants and other staff can advise new parents on how to attach the baby to the breast, how to
post natal depression. So having that initial contact is critical bonding. It’s not
hold the baby, and offer support. The right team provides
really imprinting but it’s similar to that. You know this is your
affirmation and the very strong foundation parents need
baby and the baby knows that it’s you - the smell of you, the
before they go home. They
smell of the baby, that immediate
can also help new mums
link of the baby against you.”
know what is normal.” Dr Keogh says an equal challenge is to ensure families get the opportunity to bond with their newborn quickly. “These days we try and keep the baby and mother
Parents are often sleep deprived, and may need support with settling their baby and breastfeeding.
together as much as possible even after caesarean sections to ensure that skin to skin
One of 21 Obstetricians at Wahroonga’s Sydney Adventist Hospital where 2000 plus babies are born each year, Dr Keogh says it’s a joy to be part of such a momentous occasion for families and guide them through the challenges.
“Pregnancy and childbirth are inherently life affirming.
contact is established and they have the time to get the
People instinctively reach out to touch a pregnant woman
feel of each other. This link between the mother and the
because they want to be part of it and we feel that same
baby helps with breastfeeding and it decreases the rates of
sense of wonder”.
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
41
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.
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www.rockabyebabyhire.com.au
Rock-A-Bye Baby Hire is Sydney’s favourite nursery equipment hire company. Exclusively offering many leading local and European brands for hire including Stokke, Leander, Baby Jogger, Maxi Cosi, Bugaboo, Mamaroo and more. Now your nursery can be every bit as beautiful as the rest of your home. Whether you’re hiring for your own baby at home, for holiday or for guests arriving with little people in tow you can view the range at www.rockabyebabyhire.com.au or call 02 9589 4942 to discuss your requirements. Delivery including free professional installation of all your car restraints by one of their accredited fitters is all part of the service.
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
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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
INTERNET PICKS
www.asterandruby.com.au
Free shipping for Offspring readers, enter the promo code SHIPFREE
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.livingfundraisers.com.au
Living Fundraisers makes fundraising healthy, easy and fun. They are motivated by a simple mission: to contribute to a better world by helping schools, groups and organisations raise funds through healthy, family-friendly fundraising. Why they are different: • 40% profit to fundraising group • No upfront costs, free freight, returns accepted • Australian owned and run company • Support materials, advice and templates provided • A choice of products including healthy snacks, fruit/ vegetable/flower/herb growing kits, greeting cards, seed-embedded Christmas cards and printed products
For a free sample kit and more information, phone 1300 848 993 or email info@livingfundraisers.com.au
www.tooshcoosh.com.au Toosh Coosh offers a range of unique mealtime products that provide practical solutions to improve the quality of mealtimes for mums, dads and little ones. The Toosh Coosh – Big Kids Booster seat gives just the right amount of height and comfort for kids 3yrs plus so they can sit up at the table just like an adult and Toddler Trays with a clever food catcher contains the mess, the spills and, most importantly your stress levels. Toosh Coosh makes meal times good clean fun!
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
43
A true advocate of literacy for children, with 40 published picture books under her belt and a new book just released, Mem Fox has her concerns about the role of technology for young children.
Mem Fox
books vs apps BY NICOLE COX
A
Fox is on the national publicity circuit again and
is grappling with a greater quandary. In the age of
she’s exhausted.
smartphones, iPads and tablets, Mem is gravely concerned
40 published picture books to her name, but she’s reliving
literacy development.
t 67 years young, acclaimed children’s author Mem
Not only does the doyenne of children’s literature have
the taxing (yet delightful) experience of raising a child in the energetic form of her three-year-old grandson, Theo. A recent Australian tour to promote her new book
about the evolution of apps and their impact on a child’s Mem, who has previously lambasted full-time childcare for babies under the age of one, is concerned at the “heartbreaking” phenomenon of parents turning to
Baby Bedtime has left the literary stalwart drained and
smartphones and tablets as quasi babysitters. It’s akin to
she’s drawn on all energy reserves to keep up with
television-sitting. And that, she says, is a danger.
the boundless get-up-and-go of her pint-sized fans at storytimes across the country. Then there’s the book signings and talks to parents and teachers about the importance of literacy and reading
“I’m not anti-technology and I’m not anti-technology for little kids, but between the ages of zero and five I do feel that we should not abandon our children to technology,” she says. “Even though I’m 67, I’m crazy about technology. I love
aloud to children, not to mention another five books in the
it. I love my smart phone, I love my mini iPad. I couldn’t
pipeline.
do without either of them, especially when I’m travelling
“It looks as if I’m going to be dying with a pen in
around and I absolutely love
my hand,” Mem says with a hearty
the things that it can do for my
laugh. “(I’ll be) going to the grave just
grandson.”
crossing out one word and replacing it with another.” Clearly, retirement is not on her agenda. It’s 30 years since Mem’s first book Possum Magic was published. Originally written as a university assignment, it is now one of Australia’s best-selling picture books, amassing almost 5 million sales worldwide.
44
But these days the Adelaide-based literary expert
Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
44-47 MEM FOX.indd 44
She loves the fact that his motor skills are being developed by trying to navigate a mouse through a maze. She loves the fact that the iPad can introduce him to the animals of the world and teach him
“...between the ages of zero and five I do feel that we should not abandon our children to technology.” www.offspringmagazine.com.au
29/05/2014 02:28
Mem, who has previously lambasted full-time childcare for babies under the age of one, is concerned at the “heartbreaking” phenomenon of parents turning to Smart phones and tablets as quasi babysitters. about nature, among other things. “But what bothers me is when I see children abandoned to the technology in a way that they wouldn’t be abandoned with a book,” Mem says. “It is a basic human need that we want to be with other people. yourself, it’s terrible for the child.
We want to interact, we want
“The child is lonely, the child doesn’t feel
to know that we’re cared for, we want to know that we’re special to
any love and the child is not learning language
certain people in our lives, we want
because the iPad is talking to it, not with it –
to know that there are people who
they’re not having a conversation.” As an author and avid campaigner for
are special to us.
children’s literacy, Mem has attracted
“And if you just let a child play on
international praise and her timeless tales
a tablet for hours on end while you
have reached young minds across the globe in 19 languages.
do the washing, while you put tea on the table, while you’re
Her bestseller Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes was part
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44-47 MEM FOX.indd 45
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
45
29/05/2014 02:29
“I feel deep down, psychologically, kids must pick up on the feeling that they are just being palmed off because the adults in their lives just couldn’t be bothered to interact with them.” up on the feeling that they are just being palmed off because the adults in their lives just couldn’t be bothered to interact with them.” Mem, a retired associate professor of literacy studies, says after 24 years teaching at Flinders University she is acutely aware of the importance of of Australia’s official gift to Prince George,
reading to children and exposing them
the new royal baby born to Prince William
to a wide vocabulary to improve speech
and wife Kate in July.
before starting school. Technology, she fears, hinders that
Mem concedes that her concerns about
development.
new technologies are not based on formal
“There are things that books can do
research but rather a “lived experience”
which technology will never be able to do.
having helped rear her grandson with
“When a story is being read, that
her daughter, South Australian politician
child is learning about courage, about
Chloe Fox, due to her hectic parliamentary
resilience, about meanness and cruelty
schedule.
and there is a whole lot of incidental
“Because Chloe is a politician and because she’s a single parent, we are more like parents than grandparents. Our grandson, Theo, is three and a half and I’ve watched this happen,” she says. “Even before Theo was born, I used to see kids abandoned, playing on Smart
“The child is lonely, the child doesn’t feel any love and the child is not learning language because the iPad is talking to it, not with it – they’re not having a conversation.”
phones and just ignored by the adults
discussion going on between the parent and the child. “The interaction between the child and the parent is of phenomenal importance because all sorts of moral values and feelings of love and comfort and solace and warmth and tenderness
around them. I just found it so sad. I just think there is a
are being relayed to the child…That’s not happening when a
terrible deep sadness about a child who is ignored in favour
child is abandoned to technology.”
of technology looking after it. “I feel that deep down, psychologically, kids must pick
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Mem says despite her concerns, there is a still place for a balance of technology and books in a child’s life if the
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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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www.offspringmagazine.com.au
29/05/2014 02:29
“His legs were the size of my
experiences are shared with parents.
fingers and he weighed just 1kg.
“I very much approve of children
“One day, I opened the humidicrib
having no fear of technology, of being able to interact with it. I love to let
and looked at his ears and they didn’t
my grandson play certain games on
stick out like mine. I just loved him
the iPad, literally when I’m cooking
so much I just wanted to devour him.
sausages and cannot leave the stove.
I said: “I could eat your little ears, I could nibble on your nose, I could
“But even then, he says: ‘Nanny, Nanny, come and look at this’ and I’m
munch your tiny fingers, I could
always pleased when he wants me to
gobble up your toes” and suddenly I
share his technology with him. He’s
realised I’d written the first verse of a
used to having an adult interact with
poem for him.
him and love him and doesn’t particularly like being alone. “The most wonderful thing about Theo, and it may certainly happen with other
“Baby Bedtime is just an absolute outpouring of love. It is the exact opposite of an app.”
“Baby Bedtime is just an absolute outpouring of love. It is the exact opposite of an app.” The doting grandmother says she and husband Malcolm feel “so very lucky” to have
children who are immersed in books, is that he never tires of books and he does tire of technology.” It’s Theo himself who has left an indelible mark on his
had hands-on involvement in Theo’s formative years. “You know how funny little kids are. It’s side-splitting.
grandmother. His premature arrival eight weeks early in
And you get so proud of every word that they say and every
January 2010 inspired Mem’s latest book, Baby Bedtime.
step that they take.
“Theo was very premature and didn’t look to be viable, but
“As well as the exhaustion, you have all of the joys. It’s a delight, it’s just divine.”
he did survive,” Mem recounts.
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47
29/05/2014 02:29
CELEBRITY BABY SCOOP
Single celebrity success By CelebrityBabyScoop.com
We hear from five Celebrity parents on being single, dating and raising their kids.
M
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”.
48
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.
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perth | winter 2014 | Offspring
49
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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Offspring | winter 2014 | perth
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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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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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53
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.
I
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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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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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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sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
55
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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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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57
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 to you ensure you make the right choice for your child?
A
According to ABS Schools Australia, as of 2013 there were 2164 government schools (both primary and secondary) in New South Wales. 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 your child’s school. If you wish to enrol your
wonderful government schools in NSW but there are many
child in a government school that is outside of your local
other options available, from schools providing a religious-
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 –
Do your research and talk to the schools and other parents to help make your decision – and remember, you know your child best so you will make 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 became unnecessary.”
58
GOVERNMENT/PUBLIC
Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
but a place is not guaranteed.
Dr Geoff Newcombe, executive director of the Association of Independent Schools of NSW, says independent schools
SPECIAL FEATURE
INDEPENDENT
are a diverse group of schools serving a range of different communities. “Many independent schools provide a religious or values based education while others promote a particular education philosophy,” he says. These include: • Schools affiliated with a range of Christian denominations such as Anglican, Lutheran, Presbyterian schools • Non-denominational Christian schools • Islamic schools
• Jewish schools
• Montessori schools
• Rudolf Steiner schools
• Schools that specialise in meeting the needs of students with disabilities. Geoff says as of 2013 there were 468 independent schools in NSW, enrolling 185,000 students. “More than half of all NSW independent schools have fewer than 200 students and 68 per cent are located in lower socio-economic communities, demonstrating that the growth in independent schooling has considerably increased the availability of choice for families while changing the profile of the sector,” he says. Geoff says parents often choose an independent school because the school’s ethos and values reflect those held in the home. “This may relate to the religious faith or other cultural factors that are important to the family. For students, a significant element of an independent school education is the focus on pastoral care provided by many schools, which helps to develop a very strong sense of community and inclusion for students and their families.” In addition to your options if you are considering
“Many independent schools also provide a very wide range of
government schooling there are also
subject choices or extra-curricular activities, such as music, drama
independent public schools, which are
and sports programs,” he says. “Another significant attraction of
government schools that have increased
independent schools is that many are combined K to 12 schools –
autonomy to make decisions at a local level.
allowing a student to start and finish their entire schooling in the
Like government schools, independent public
same school.”
schools do not charge tuition fees to parents or have selective enrolment processes.
For information on independent schools, go to the Association of Independent Schools of NSW, www.aisnsw.edu.au
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 and parents to focus on four key areas: teacher quality, school autonomy, parental engagement and a strong curriculum,” they say. For more information on Government schooling in NSW go to http://www.dec.nsw.
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.”
gov.au/about-us/news-at-det/news/back-toschool-support
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sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
59
SPECIAL FEATURE
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 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.
“A unique feature of Steiner education is that children will have the same teacher throughout their primary years,” Tracey
STEINER
says. “This creates the opportunity for strong relationships between teacher, student and the student’s family. One of the
Tracey Puckeridge, CEO Steiner Education Australia, says every
highest indications for excellent learning outcomes involves
school has to meet the same curriculum requirements – the
positive student/teacher relationships.”
difference with Steiner schools is the way they teach. In the early childhood sector, experience is based on play in
For information on Steiner schools visit www. steinereducation.edu.au
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
CATHOLIC 20 percent of students in Australia attend a Catholic school
children in each year to engage the child at each stage of their
– with just over 747,000 students at 1711 Catholic schools
development,” Tracey says.
across Australia in 2013.
Is your child ready 4 school?
SCHOOL READINESS • A HEAD START for BIG SCHOOL
Classes for children aged 3-6 years Classes enrolling now! Castle Hill, Kellyville, Concord and Cherrybrook,
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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
Pre-kindy programs In NSW a child must start school no later than the beginning of the year they turn 6. Non-compulsary options are available for younger children, but check with your chosen school for their enrolment requirements. When you put in your application to a school, you may need the following: • Your child’s birth certificate • Proof of address • Court orders (if applicable)
• Immunisation records If your child has any medical conditions, allergies or special requirements it is important to tell the school.
Ross Fox, executive director of the National Catholic
Note: If you want to enrol your child into a private school, call the school for their enrolment requirements. Also ask how far in advance you will need to submit your child’s enrolment application – some parents will put their child’s name down at prestigious or in-demand schools when their child is a newborn!
Education Commission, says Catholic schools are very inclusive. “In recent years the fastest growing student groups
development of the whole child. “They are more than just
in Catholic education have been indigenous students and
test results,” he says. “Catholic schools strive to meet the
students with special needs,” he says.
unique needs of every individual student.”
If you want to enrol in a Catholic school, you must contact
“Catholic schools are animated by the mission and
the individual school to put in an application. Submitting
tradition of the Catholic Church stretching over more than
an application does not guarantee you placement, and you
2000 years,” Ross adds. “In their work they exhibit a deep
will usually be asked to attend an interview. You do not have
commitment to Christian values, the example of Jesus Christ
to be Catholic to attend a Catholic school, but enrolment
and his teachings. This means Catholic schools, among other
priority is usually given to Catholic students. However,
things, often display a deep commitment to social justice
Catholic schools are very inclusive, so ask your local school
and prioritise the needs of their local community.”
about their enrolment procedures. According to Ross, Catholic schools focus on the
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61
SPECIAL FEATURE
why i chose a montessori school for my child fond memories of her time there, it was Eva Schmalkuche was a Montessori student herself, so with school. “I like that the class sizes are a simple decision to send her son Jaxon (5) to a Montessori the younger students,” she says. “Their much smaller with a mix of ages, so the older students help what they want to do, and they learn philosophy is attractive because it allows the child to choose ing with older students and responsibility.” things other than the curriculum including sharing, socialis it’s a fantastic grounding,” Eva says. “Why “There is a lot of misperception surrounding Montessori – but fear something that is not main stream – not give it a try? Parents considering Montessori should not welcoming.” the Montessori community is open for discussion and is very
MONTESSORI
HOME SCHOOLING
The Montessori philosophy is different to ‘mainstream’
Parents are the first educators
education, with an emphasis on independence, by providing an
of their children – so why not
environment of activities for children to use at their own pace.
consider home schooling and
Christine Harrison, president Montessori Australia Foundation, says Montessori thinks about the whole child. “Our view of education is as an aid to life – to help them grow
extend this important role to their everyday schooling? Stuart Chapman, director of Homeschool WA, says parents
from childhood to maturity. Each child is individual… and we
choose home schooling for a number of reasons including:
encourage each child to follow their own path of learning.”
• Bullying. • Not being happy with the academic progress of
Children are in classes of ‘multi-age’ groups. For example, children aged three to six years will be in the same class. Christine says children work to their ability with sets of
their child at school. • Concerns about behaviour. • Concerns with the culture of the school. • Deciding to home school their child with a learning difficulty.
materials in a prepared environment, and allowing children
Stuart says there is a lot of support available for parents
to work to their own capabilities adds to their concentration
wanting to take the plunge; however, they need to consider
and self-esteem, and encourages them to think creatively and
the time they can commit. “Home education involves a huge
independently. “Montessori has been around for over 100 years
commitment on (the parent’s) behalf,” he says. “In some
and it is proven to help the whole child in a holistic way,” she
cases they will need to drop, reduce or reschedule work
says.
commitments, and they need to come to grips with some
She recommends parents go to a Montessori school to see for themselves the philosophy in action and to see how Montessori can benefit their child. Christine also says there are
negative attitudes from family and friends who may question a parent’s ability on being able to educate their child.” However, he says the advantages are many. Although
also Montessori long day care centres with programs for babies
some people worry about the opportunity for home schooled
and toddlers, which may appeal to parents of younger children
children to socialise with other children, Stuart says home
who want to get a taste for the Montessori philosophy.
schooled children learn better social skills as they interact with
orit-tea-offspring-ad-OL.pdf 1 16/05/14 8:52 AM For more information go to www.montessori.org.au
children and adults of different ages instead of only their same-
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the child’s education, including the opportunity for increased
SPECIAL FEATURE
age peers in the school yard. There are also advantages to parent/child interaction and ensuring your child gets lots of one-on-one attention. “A parent is a highly motivated educator,” he says. “A teacher is a paid employee who will never make the sacrifices a parent will. Parents will always make the extra effort.” For more information about Home Schooling WA, go to www.homeschoolwa.com.au You should also contact the Board of Studies NSW for information about home schooling in NSW and registering for home schooling, http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/ parents/home-schooling.html
FINDING OUT MORE INFORMATION 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.
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 it to take 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
If you can, talk to parents of students already attending the school that 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.
Is your child ready 4 school? SCHOOL READINESS • A HEAD START for BIG SCHOOL
Classes for children aged 3-6 years
Classes enrolling now!
we took the plunge.”
• • • • •
Castle Hill Cherrybrook Concord Kellyville Turramurra
Phone: 0412 506 017 www.edspecially4u.com.au www.offspringmagazine.com.au
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
63
SPECIAL FEATURE
Go to the MySchool website, http://www.myschool. edu.au/ This website enables you to search profiles of schools, as well as statistical information and resources and performance indicators
MAKING A DECISION There are so many school options, so ensure you do your research and ask lots of questions to make the best decision for your child. Some things to consider include: • Location. As in real estate, location is very important when choosing a school. If the best school choice for your child is the government school across the road from your house, then that will be very convenient! If your preferred school is further afield, you will need to take into consideration travel time and public transport (if required). • The school’s uniform requirements. • If your child has a special interest, such as music, sport or languages. Ask the school what programs they offer. • The school’s policies on homework and bullying. • The cost. The expense of uniforms, fees or additional costs can vary greatly between schools so it is best to find out these details when enquiring about enrolment to ensure
Little Discoverers are welcome at The Scots College Early Years Centre
C
ommencing his journey to brave hearts and bold minds in The Scots College Early Years Centre, each boy is an active discoverer of his new world. Harnessing a boy’s natural curiosity and energy, Scots’ educational long day care program encourages each boy to explore and discover his world. Through the power of play, boys discover letters and numbers, words and counting. The Reggio Emilia education philosophy facilitates a partnership with children, teachers and parents in which learning occurs in a happy, fun, caring and homely environment rich in opportunities for boys’ discovery and learning. For more information about The Scots College Early Years Centre visit www.tsc.nsw.edu.au/littlediscoverers
they fit within your budget.
Do you notice that your child... tmead,
The Scots College Rose Bay Early Years Centre is now seeking
Wes arman, n o C cord, Art nhope ta Leichhardt, S s Garden
Little
iD sc verers to join in the adventure!
• Walks funny or has bad posture? • Falls down quite often? • Does not like sports?
• Has growing pains or wakes up at night crying?
• Suffers from heel or ankle pain ?
Uncorrected
Protect your child’s feet and posture especially when doing competitive sports and dancing
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• Long day care for 3 to 4 year old boys. • Adventure Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 6:00pm, 48 weeks of the year! • Scots’ lauded Brave Hearts Bold Minds education philosophy. • Exclusive pathway to a Scots education. • Renowned Reggio Emilia Program. • $125 per day. Curious? Please visit www.tsc.nsw.edu.au/littlediscoverers
BRAVE HEARTS BOLD MINDS
www.footandposture.com.au
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What do parents want for their children?
avenswood is committed to helping girls discover their world and take their first steps in understanding our increasingly global society. An important part of this is a commitment to learning other languages, right from the start of school life. Ravenswood girls learn French from Kindergarten, can learn Mandarin from Year 5 and choose from five languages from Year 7. Ravenswood students have an exciting new facility with the opening of a Confucius Classroom in May. Staffed with specialist teachers, Ravenswood students have access to a wealth of resources with the assistance of the University New South Wales Confucius Institute. Ravenswood recently welcomed Her Excellency Professor The Honourable Marie Bashir AC CVO, Governor of NSW to officially open the classroom, the first of its kind in an independent school in NSW.
J
R
ohn Colet School headmaster, Gilbert Mane understands that most parents want their children to be happy, resilient, strong and decent young men and women. They want their children to acquire and hone skills with which they can contribute to society, and reap an appropriate reward. “In short they want them to be good people, who can get a good job!” Mr Mane says. John Colet gives the best food, and engaging students in appropriate exercise, to grow up strong, skilful and healthy - taking care of their physical well-being. “And by giving them the best “food” and “exercise” to feed their mental, emotional and spiritual faculties as well, Good grounding in academic subjects and the training of their minds to reason, problem-solve and enquire; nurturing of their emotional strength and resilience, to deal with the emotional ups and downs of life. And finally fostering mindfulness and a sense of themselves as confident and self-assured.”
SPECIAL FEATURE
New Confucius Classroom at Ravenswood
Ravenswood
Give your daughter the best start Ravenswood’s philosophy of differentiated learning begins in our Junior School. Each child’s learning needs are observed and a programme of learning is tailored which is unique for each child. Our goal is that each child achieves their full potential. During their Junior School years, our students work with their classroom teacher as well as a range of specialist teachers across diverse areas including languages, music, science and arts. Each girl discovers the life-long joy of learning.
We welcome you to visit us today. Book your tour online at www.ravenswood.nsw.edu.au
Henry Street, Gordon NSW 2072 t: 02 9498 9908 e: enrol@ravenswood.nsw.edu.au
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SPECIAL FEATURE
Strength and Gentleness at Brigidine College St Ives
Boys explore at The Scots College Early Learning Centre
A
B
rigidine College St Ives is an independent secondary school for girls, dedicated to education in the Catholic tradition. The College prides itself on providing a holistic education combining the spiritual, academic, physical and cultural dimensions of learning, creating women of spiritual, moral and ethical strength. With excellent academic results, a high level of achievement in the performing arts and sport and a strong commitment to service, girls at Brigidine are challenged to think and experience beyond their boundaries, to have the courage to question their world and model Christ’s teachings in their lives. Browse their website www.brigidine.nsw.edu.au to book a tour today.
t The Scots College Early Learning Centre the principles of the Reggio Emilia philosophy form the basis of learning, encouraging boys to explore and discover their world. Scots’ innovative Brave Hearts Bold Minds Education Philosophy and adventurous curriculum awaits each boy. New concepts fascinate and draw the boys into a style of learning and an area of interest whether this be science, space or numbers. In The Early Learning Centre, time allows for investigation and the opportunity to build foundational skills. The social, physical, academic, emotional and aesthetic domains for learning are integrated and supported to enrich the best possible learning environment for the boys. For more information visit www.tsc.nsw.edu.au/explorers
The Scots College is calling all little Cubs and Lions to explore the world! • 2, 3 and 5 day enrolment options; • School based days 8:40am-3:00pm, school term only; • Scots’ lauded Brave Hearts Bold Minds education philosophy; • Renowned Reggio Emilia Program; • Innovative boy-centred curriculum for 3 to 6 year olds; • Specialist support across Dance, Drama, Sport, Art and Music Explore www.tsc.nsw.edu.au/explorers
BRAVE HEARTS BOLD MINDS
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TRAVEL
Who doesn’t dream of some time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Whether it’s a weekend you want or a few weeks, NSW has it all. From the beautiful beaches to the Snowy Mountains NSW has it covered!
! w s n n i n u f y l i Fam BY COLLEEN WILLIS
Snowy Mountains
has a fantastic Snowsports School which offers lessons to all
The Snowy Mountains have long been a favourite for snow
levels and starts as young as 2 years old.
enthusiasts and is perfect for summer and winter.
Another option is the ‘Snowy Daycare’ which takes children from 6 weeks to 3 years and is available for full and half days.
Highlights include:
SUMMER
• Hiking
• Horse riding
Accommodation
• Cycling
• Kosciusko National Park
The first step is deciding where you want to stay! The most
• Water sports - kayaking, canoeing, sailing, boating,
popular style of family accommodation is a self-contained
apartment, however, there are plenty of other styles to choose
fishing, swimming
from as well.
WINTER
For more information visit
• The Peak Festival which celebrates the opening of the ski
Rydges Snowy Mountains - www.rydges.com
The Salzburg Apartments - www.salzburg.com.au
season at Perisher; 6 – 9 June
• Cross Country Ski Week for all levels; 2 -10 August • Snowboarding
Getting there
• Kosciusko National Park
Cooma is the largest town in the region and is approximately
For more information visit www.snowymountains.com.au
400km from Sydney. Jindabyne is closest to Kosciusko National Park and is roughly 465km away and Perisher, Thredbo and
Perisher
Charlotte Pass are close to it.
Perisher is a great snow spot for families because it caters to
For more information visit
the new and experienced as well as the young and old. Perisher
www.perisher.com.au
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TRAVEL
South Coast
Mogo Zoo
The South Coast sure is home to spectacular scenery and
Mogo Zoo is home to rare and endangerd species from around
exciting activities.
the globe. The kids could be ‘Keeper for the Day!’ For more information visit www.mogozoo.com.au
Highlights include: • Kiama Blowhole
• Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk
• Minnamurra Rainforest
• Mogo Zoo
Accommodation
• Batemans Bay
• Jervis Bay
Batemans Bay is a good spot to base yourself in if you want to
• Beach fun
stay in one spot. From backpackers to luxury, there is plenty to choose from.
Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk
• Big4 Batemans Bay Beach Resort
This is a great activity for the whole family. Its beautiful views
take in the rainforest canopy, Lake Illawarra and the South
• Chalet Swisse Spa at Surf Beach Retreat
(cabins, caravans and camping)
Pacific Ocean. A big bonus is that it’s both pram and wheelchair accessible. It’s located approximately 1.5 hours south of Sydney so
Follow the Grand Pacific Drive and take your time. Batemans
could even be a day trip.
Bay is about 280km from Sydney.
For more information visit
For more information visit
www.illawarrafly.com.au
www.batemansbay.com.au | www.grandpacificdrive.com.au
Jervis Bay
68
Getting there
Known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters and national
Hunter Valley
parks, it’s also famous for its dolphins and whales. There are
Most of us love a good winery and Hunter Valley doesn’t
80-120 dolphins in Jervis Bay all year round, which gives you
disappoint! With roughly150 wine producers and breweries
plenty of opportunity to see them. The whale season is from
a plenty, you’re bound to come across one you like! However,
June to October and truly is a magnificent sight to see.
there are some that are more ‘family friendly’ than others and
For more information visit
include kids’ menus, playgrounds and large grassy areas for the
www.jervisbaytourism.asn.au | www.dolphinwatch.com.au
kids to enjoy. This then allows the adults get onto the serious
www.jervisbaywhales.com.au
business of eating and drinking!
Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
TRAVEL Getting there The tourist route T33 is a lovely drive. Another option is taking the train. For more information visit www.winecountry.com.au
The Blue Mountains The Blue Mountains has a lovely laid back feel and is perfect for a quick getaway. Highlights include: • Leuralla Toy & Railway Museum NSW • Hop on Hop off Trolley Tours • Jenolan Caves
• The Three Sisters
• Megalong Valley Heritage Farm • Horse Riding Highlights include: • Ballooning
• Horse riding
• Extreme Go Karting
• Drayton’s Family Wines
Accommodation
• Hunter Valley Gardens Aqua Golf & Putt Putt
• Owls Cottage Katoomba • Jenolan Caravan Park
• McGuian Cellars (it also has cheese,
• Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort and Spa (for a bit of luxury)
chocolate and fudge - yum!)
• Wyndham Estate
Getting there
• Potters Hotel, Brewery and Resort
Glenbrook is roughly 75km away and the Jenolan Caves are nearly 200km so driving is the most practical option. However,
Accommodation
the train or bus is also another way.
• Potters Hotel, Brewery and Resort
For more information visit
• Bellbird Cottages and Swallows Homestead
www.bluemts.com.au | www.takeabreak.com.au/
bluemountains/family/accomodation.htm.
(pets welcome here)
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TRAVEL
Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo For something a bit different why not stay the night at the zoo? For many families, this is a one off opportunity to get up close and personal to the animals while creating magical family memories.
Accommodation • Billabong Camp
• Zoofari Lodge
For more information visit www.taronga.org.au/taronga-western-plains-zoo
Getting there Dubbo is an hour’s flight from Sydney or you can drive, train or bus it. The distance from Sydney to Dubbo is just under 400km. For more information visit www.dubbotourism.com.au
Port Macquarie Port Macquarie is still close enough to Sydney for a quick trip, or you could make this a stopover on your way up north.
Highlights include: • Whale watching (June to October) • Water fun - swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, • Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park • Timbertown Heritage Theme Park (on 87 acres of natural forest!) For something a little different, why not visit the Observatory? Imagine what the kids will be thinking when they look through the telescope! It’s open on Sunday and Wednesday nights throughout the year.
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TRAVEL Accommodation
Byron Bay
I stayed with my family at the Mantra Quayside Apartments and
Byron Bay is such a melting pot of people and ideas. It’s a good
found the location good and apartment to be a reasonable size.
spot to base yourself in as there’s plenty to do in the area.
Other spots are: • The Observatory Resort
Highlights include: • Marina Holiday Park
• Amaze’n’Place - Alstonville
For more information visit
• Macadamia Castle - Knockrow
www.port-macquarie.net/ | www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au
• Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens – Mullumbimby
www.pmobs.org.au
• Art
• Ballooning
• Hang gliding
• Loads of water activities
Getting there The distance from Sydney is approximately 380km so no need
Accommodation
to rush. Flying is with Qantas and Virgin.
• Lennox Beach Resort (baby-sitting services for a fee) • Ballina Lakeside Holiday Park For more information visit
Coffs Harbour
www.visitbyronbay.com | www.byronbayaccom.net
How can you not enjoy a place that is home to The Big Banana?? Coffs is a great spot to break your journey if you’re on
Getting there
a road trip from Sydney.
Being 800kms from Sydney there are a few options to consider. Driving is one of them, as is also the train and flying.
Other highlights include: • Dolphin Marine Magic Show
• Sky Diving
• Helicopter Scenic Flights
• Water fun
Flying into Ballina is with Jetstar, Virgin and Rex.
Helpful driving tips Accommodation
• Make sure you have plenty of water with you
We stayed at the Breakfree Anuka Beach resort and loved it. The
• Don’t get low on petrol
water slide was a big hit in our family! Other options are
• Keep mobiles charged
• Smugglers on the Beach (I love that name!)
• Keep first aid kits topped up and carry essential medication
• Park Beach Holiday Park
• Tell someone your itinerary, especially if travelling
• Aqualuna Beach Resort
For more information visit www.coffscoast.com.au
to isolated areas.
For more information visit
Getting there
www.virginaustralia.com.au/en | www.qantas.com.au
By road the distance is approximately 540km, so allow enough
www.jetstar.com | www.rex.com.au
time if not stopping on the way. From Port Macquarie it is
www.tigerair.com.au | www.sydneytrains.info/
roughly 150km. Flying is with Qantas, Virgin or Tiger Air
http://www.nswtrainlink.info/ | www.dubbobuslines.com.au
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TRAVEL
V
oted best Family Resort in Australia, Paradise Resort Gold Coast is renowned as Heaven for Kids and a Paradise for Parents! Where every accommodation package includes up to 4 hours of supervised care for every child aged 0 to 12 per day in the famous Zone 4 Kids Club, valued at $40 each. The Zone 4 Kids Club is fully supervised which allows parents time to escape the daily routine and indulge in some holiday sightseeing or precious down time. There is also a giant Kids Water Park right in the centre of the resort, an indoor and outdoor playground, a permanent ice-skating rink plus a whole range of free daily activi-
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ties and entertainment. And while the kids are looked after parents can rediscover the art of relaxation in the exclusive Zone 4 Adults. The outdoor spa area features a large heated spa and lounge chairs offering parents a place to unwind and soak up the sunshine ‘child free’. Complete with the lagoon pool and spa, gym, bistro, cafe and bar, Paradise Resort is the perfect choice for your next family holiday. Packages start from only $169 per night for a family of 4. Visit www.paradiseresort.com.au for more information.
www.offspringmagazine.com.au
L
TRAVEL
Unwind and relax in Eurobodalla
ooking for somewhere to relax and unwind, uncrowded and unspoilt? Then perhaps a short break to Eurobodalla on the south coast of NSW is what you need. The northern gateway to Eurobodalla is Batemans Bay, which sits on the banks of the Clyde River; a stunning waterway famous for some of the freshest and best oysters in Australia. With the landmark twin Tollgate Islands protruding from the bay it’s easy to see why Batemans Bay is a popular destination for those who simply want to enjoy some quiet time with friends or family. Nearby is Mogo Village, a great place to shop for local arts and crafts, pan for gold at the replica 19th century gold mining town and Mogo Zoo, home to more than 140 species including white lions and the silverback Gorilla, Mr Kibabu and his family. Tuross Head is a perfect location for kayaking and fishing. Cycling is the ideal mode of transport around this seaside village and the headlands, making it easier to stop to take in the vistas. Narooma sits between the ocean and Wagonga Inlet, a breathtakingly stunning azure blue waterway. A familyfriendly cycleway extends for kilometres and during whale watching season, almost every turn is a vantage point. Narooma is the launch point for Montague Island to visit the resident seals and penguins and lighthouse. At the southern border of Eurobodalla is the historic village of Central Tilba which is once again producing flavoursome cheeses and fresh jersey milk products.
eurobodalla x a l e r & d n i unw south coast nsw
www.eurobodalla.com.au
free call 1800 802 528 Batemans Bay | Moruya | Narooma | and beyond
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TRAVEL
A Family Favourite I
nasium, a NEOS 360 interactive play hub, giant chess
perfect. “Coconut” as it is affectionately known by guests
activities such as our weekly free pancake breakfast and
is one of the most awarded resorts in Australia making it
rides around the resort in Big Red, our Fire Truck.”
f you are considering a winter break in the tropics for the family, Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort could be
a first choice for locals and tourists alike. A huge list of activities includes the colourful Splash Waterpark, a large resort swimming pool with waterslide, two giant shaded jumping pillows, an 18 hole mini golf course to provide endless fun for children of all ages. According to resort General Manager, Kim Thomas,
set, climbing Spyder and table tennis along with special
“Activities include aqua aerobics three times a week, outdoor movies on the big screen and seasonal entertainment,” he says. The Resort has eight different styles of free-standing, self-contained Holiday Units. Couples and small families can choose from open plan cabins, while those looking
“most people are pleasantly surprised at what is on offer
for more room will be happy with the spacious three
when they check in.”
bedroom, two bathroom Coconut Condos complete with
“All guests are given a guided tour around the one hectare property in one of our themed buggies on arrival. It is often only then that they realise we have a second Resort Pool and warm Spa, a quality new Gym-
their own laundry, BBQ on the verandah and a hammock for swinging away the afternoon. Go on – book now…your family will love it! For more information visit www.coconut.com.au
6 AUSTRALIAN & 12 QUEENSLAND TOURISM AWARDS
SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR SPECIALS
FREE • Splash Waterpark • Gymnasium • Pancake Breakfast • Wireless Internet • 18 Hole Mini Golf • Aqua Aerobics • Heated and Cold Spas • 2 Resort Pools • Movies under the stars • Barbeques • Day/night Tennis • Adventure Playground • 2 Jumping Pillows • TV/Movie Room • Tour booking desk • City Courtesy Coach... and much, much more
ONLY 7 MINUTES TO CAIRNS CITY CENTRE RESERVATIONS: 1800 COCONUT • www.coconut.com.au E: coco@coconut.com.au • 23-51 Anderson Road, Woree, Cairns, Qld
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TRAVEL
MAKE YOUR MARK in the
BEGA VALLEY
SHIRE Sydney
Welcome to Bega Valley Shire
T
he Bega Valley Shire is located about halfway between Sydney and Melbourne, at the southeastern extremity of New South Wales, on Australia’s beautiful main coastal route. The 225km coastal fringe extends from Wallaga Lake in the north, to Cape Howe and the Victorian border in the south, forming the stunning Sapphire Coast. Inland, the higher peaks of the Great Dividing Range give way to rolling hills, majestic rivers and pristine streams. About 73 percent of our 6,277 square kilometres is protected National Park or State Forest. There is a relatively small population of about 33,000 people and the current estimate of growth will see about 37,500 people calling the Bega Valley home by 2030. There is loads of room for families, entrepreneurs and investors wishing to experience the delights of this magical place. The region is vibrant, dynamic and independent. It attracts an entrepreneurial spirit and has the capacity to develop as a new technology and communications centre; to form commercial hubs and start up business incubators; to be a place for call centres, the retirement industry, boat building and commercial fishing; to further develop tourism through land or sea based ventures; and to explore opportunities in horticultural and agricultural practises such as aquaculture, aquaponics, hydroponics and pearl and seaweed farming.
The Bega Valley Shire!
There are opportunities for clinical, non-clinical and support services to grow with a new regional Hospital to be completed by 2016. Find representatives from the Bega Valley Shire at The Country and Regional Living Expo on the 2nd and 3rd of August at the Sydney Olympic Park Showground. Have a chat about this great place. Play. Stay. Invest! Make your mark in the Bega Valley Shire because it’s like no other place on earth.
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PLAY. STAY. INVEST. begavalley.nsw.gov.au
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
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TRAVEL
W
inter is a beautiful time of the year to travel to some of NSW’s most popular destinations. So, pack up the family and take a short break adventure during these NSW Winter school holidays. Head south to places such as Kiama’s Blowhole, quirky Mogo Zoo and a string of seaside towns. Head north and give the kids a thrill at the Central Coast’s Australian Reptile Park, the daily pelican feeding sessions at The Entrance and fun attractions such as The Big Banana in Coffs Harbour. From April to November, pods of whales travel along the NSW coast – and there are many vantage points including Cape Byron in Byron Bay to spot these gentle giants. Remember to bring your binoculars! If the country beckons, stay in a Zoofari Lodge at Dubbo’s Taronga Western Plains Zoo. The Murray region
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Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
is also a must. Chug along the river on a paddle steamer, hire a houseboat or visit Corowa’s Murray Bank Yabby Farm to catch and cook your own. You’ll find the right horse-riding holiday in NSW with riding ranches, horseback safaris and school holiday camps for kids. Luckily, they’re in great locations including The Hunter, Southern Highlands, New England and Outback NSW. For a truly memorable holiday, book a farm stay. You’ll find great options in Megalong Valley in the Blue Mountains. Mudgee, Orange, Bathurst and Griffith are also home to working sheep and cattle stations. There are lots of opportunities to enjoy nature with the family. Stunning nature locations include the Blue Mountains, Snowy Mountains, New England North West region and Lord Howe Island.
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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.
S
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
n
Readily available and affordable.
n
High in nutrients including antioxidants, phytonutrients,
n
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.
sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
77
FOOD & NUTRITION
TOP 10
Superfoods
1
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.
2
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!
3
ALMONDS AND CHIA SEEDS Once upon a time, nuts and seeds were shunned upon
4
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
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doesn’t convert the omega 3
Offspring | winter 2014 | sydney
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.
7
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
8
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.
9
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
5
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
10
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
6
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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sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
79
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.
T
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:
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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 | sydney
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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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Phone: +628593511030 email: info@balibabyhire.com www.balibabyhire.com sydney | winter 2014 | Offspring
81
PARTY DIRECTORY
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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”).
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