Offspring

Summer 2013

Lindy Klim

Entrepreneur, model, Princess, mum and wife to Michael Klim

Apps for kids your guide

Maggie Dent’s

advice?

Kids need dirt, and lots of it!

Christmas Gift Guide FREE

Great pressies for your kids

contents

summer

8

Editor’s Note

10

The Contributors

Feature article 12

What Lindy did We chat to Lindy Klim about business, motherhood and being married to Olympic swimmer Micheal Klim

FASHION 17 Sun, sea & surf

Fun, fresh & cool swimwear fashion

for kids this summer

20

12

PARENTING 20 Dirty play

Parenting Guru, Maggie Dent,

speaks to Offspring about

the importance of play for

children’s development

FASHION 24 Hot summer trends

From the beach to the summer

cocktail party, here’s some of this

season’s hottest fashion pieces 28 Off the air – Birthday

bonanzas gone bananas

92.9 radio presenter and mother,

Lisa Fernandez, makes a stand

against kids’ birthday parties

SPECIAL FEATURE 30 All I want for Christmas

Our guide of great gifts for kids 38 The quest for better breasts

We look at what’s involved and why

there is a big increase in post baby

breast surgery 42 Here come the

grandparents – there go

your rules!

Parental Guidance is on at the

movies these holidays

4 Offspring | summer 2013

38 43 For the love of music

Early Learning Music classes are

lots of fun, while helping children

develop important, lifelong skills 44 Internet picks

Our selection of websites offering

great products for your kids 46 Rock n Toddle - music to

your ears

A music and movement program

that helps your child explore and

develop music, dance, literacy,

drama and social skills 47 Toddlerfest at Scitech

A world of discovery awaits!

17 HOME 48

Contemporary classics Nursery furniture & accessories Transform your new addition’s space with style!

50 Funny mummy - No fly zone

The funny perks of flying with kids as

experienced by Ari Chavez

He wants to be an engineer.

(But you shouldn’t have to dig deep to pay for his education) Just like engineers, at the Australian Scholarships Group (ASG) we are masters at planning and ensuring the right foundations are in place. We offer a proven and proactive way to help you nurture and fund your child’s education, no matter what they want to be. In fact with a heritage of almost 40 years, ASG has already helped more than 287,000 families to do just that, and now we’d like to help you too.

To start planning for your child’s future education, contact our Perth Information Centre on 9440 4466 or visit asg.com.au

ASG (the Issuer) recommends that the Product Disclosure Statement, available from ASG’s Registered Office, or any Information Centre, should be considered when making application for membership.

BUSINESS MUM - New feature!

52 The business of losing

baby weight

Mumpreneur, Rhian Allen, shares

how she developed her successful

business while juggling family life

52 66

54 Moneywise at home

Finances tips and ideas to help

your family 59 Dad’s word - Follow

the leader

Gary Ausbruch reveals how he ranks

on the family front

TECHNOLOGY 60 Apps for kids

Educational and fun must-have

iPad applications & websites that

your kids will love

REAL LIFE 64 Perth mum creates app

for kids

Mhairi Flay shares why and how she

transformed her nursery rhyme book

into an iPad app

64 PARENTING 73 Parents matter

Playgroup WA CEO David Zarb

discusses the impact of a positive

home environment on children’s long

term school performance

FOOD AND NUTRITION 80

SPECIAL FEATURE

74 Self-regulation is KEY

The Ngala Education team explain

why it’s so important for children to

develop self-regulation

66 School holiday

activity guide

We’ve compiled some great ideas of

things for families to do around Perth

and at home this summer

77 Surfing mums WA

Meet Perth’s Surfing Mums - a

dedicated group of parents who

share a passion for surfing

83 & 85 Calendar of events

Free Summer events for WA families

COMMUNITY

Eat your ABC Dietitian Kate Bullen provides an ABC of nutrition for your family

84 Party directory

86 General Directory

ISSUE 12 summer 2013

Lindy Klim with her children Photo by Nat Deague Photography

Offspring magazine is produced and published by Family Life Publications ABN: 55 398 258 346 PO Box 724 Claremont 6910 Contact Phone 08 9499 1291 Website www.offspringmagazine.com.au Editorial enquiries editorial@offspringmagazine.com.au Advertising enquiries advertising@offspringmagazine.com.au Subscription enquiries subscription@offspringmagazine.com.au

Distribution 30,000 copies distributed by paid subscriptions and for free at selected locations throughout Perth.

Managing Editor Kate Durack Contributing writers Ari Chavez, Tara Dryland, Gary Ausbruch, Lisa Fernandez, Elise Papamihail, Ngala Parenting Education Team, Claire Armstrong, Kate Bullen, David Zarb (Playgroup WA), Brooke Evans-Butler, Beth Johnston, Jane Millington, Jessica Cummins, Zoe Deleuil.

Graphic Designers Steven Lillywhite, Sally Travis Printed by Scott Print

prepare print deliver

Offspring magazine is an independent magazine published quarterly by Family Life Publications. 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.

6 Offspring | summer 2013

Your business opportunity to be a working parent in your own home Huge demand statewide from families requiring family child care is creating business opportunities in Western Australia especially in: Morley Bedford Bayswater Inglewood Menora

Stirling Dianella Midland Fremantle Baldivis

Margaret River Dunsborough Bunbury Mandurah Halls Head & Falcon

Elite Childcare Solutions is putting the call out for more in-home Educators as it works to keep up with overwhelming demand as more parents are choosing to have their children cared for in home environments.

As employers ask for longer working hours it’s comforting for parents to know that their child is in a home based childcare service & reassuringly our Educators are able to provide overnight & weekend child care options to their families.

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We pride ourselves on practical interpretation of regulations to suit your business & we believe in respectful business partnerships that share your passion & philosophy for working with young children.

Elite Educators are independent business operators who benefit from a partnership with Elite providing access to child care benefit subsidies & practical solutions to assist in the smooth transition to the E.Y.L.F & N.Q.S. Working with Elite Childcare allows you to: ● Create an environment for play & learning in your own home & in nature ● Set your own hours & income ● Gain ongoing professional development. We have exclusively engaged Jan Collins & Jurek Leon of Terrific Trading to facilitate a series of three sessions on personal development for Educators over the next year statewide.

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the natural way to learn and play 1300 796 399 www.elitechildcare.com.au

Photo: Lucy Miller Photography

editor’s note T

here really is no better place to be in Summer than Perth. Everyone

There are other perils of summer too - kids deciding 4am is morning, batting

says so. Sun, sea, surf and frivolity.

off the flies and poisonous snakes living

Great beaches, magnificent sunsets

on your doorstep. (Oh, yes, there are

and long balmy nights. Not much beats

snakes in suburbia too.) In fact, there is

an icy cold Corona with fish and chips,

one camped out the front of our house,

watching the sunset at Cott on a hot

according to our neighbour from across

summer’s evening. Well that’s the image

the road. He paid us a visit the other night

of beautiful wares available for littlies,

of Summer imprinted on my memory,

to inform us our native garden (which is a

I intend to get the kids just a couple of

even if it was back in 1997 or 2004 or

little overgrown) is most likely harbouring

nice, practical things and avoid over-

sometime before I got wrinkles and

snakes. Apparently, he nearly tripped over

indulging them like last year. In fact,

saggy boobs, and the romance of dusk

a metre-long dugite curled up on his porch

parenting guru, Maggie Dent, discusses

was superseded by the Witching Hour.

while taking the rubbish out. Allegedly,

the importance of parental “presence”

Summer this year will not be like that.

the Snake Catcher who was called out to

rather than “presents”, in her interview

It will be at a safe, waveless, suburban

find the snake (I didn’t even know there

with Claire Armstrong (“Dirty Play”, pg

beach; a sea of buckets & spades, daggy

was such a person), claims the snake most

20); while Playgroup WA CEO David Zarb

shade tents, and swarming with kids,

likely came from our yard, as it is a little

reports interesting research in “Parents

and probably flies. Not quite so sexy.

overgrown. Isn’t that the whole point of

Matter” (pg 73), reminding us it’s what

natives, that they just fend for themselves

we do with our children, not how much

and you don’t have to do any gardening?

money we spend on them.

Then there’s the dreaded swimwear issue. This year, I spent the kids’ Christmas present budget on a pair of

So summer in your thirties, post babies,

And since Christmas is all about giving,

“flattering” bikinis at a snazzy store under

can still be interesting, if not quite so free

there are so many charities who need

the seduction of mood lighting and a

and easy. And nothing beats the magic of

help to support a growing number of

skinny mirror, only to get home, see them

Christmas with kids. If you’re like me, and

WA families who struggle to meet their

on in daylight, and realise my blunder

haven’t started shopping yet, Tara Dryland

own basic needs. The Salvation Army

with vanity. No matter how much these

has included a Christmas gift guide (pg 30)

Christmas Appeal is our choice this year

fandangle designs promise to suck you

with nifty finds to help you on your way.

www.salvationarmy.org.au

in, stretch you up and camouflage the

This Christmas I will endeavour to buy

Have a lovely and safe Christmas

wobbly bits, there is no escaping that

less for the kids, and not just because I

holiday and I hope 2013 is a great year for

you’re still wearing underwear, which

blew the budget on a bit of skimpy lycra!

you and your families.

doesn’t hide much.

Instead of succumbing to the multitude

Kate Durack

Join Offspring Magazine Facebook page to WIN prizes to see Parental Guidance!

20th Century Fox is offering five families the chance to win a prize pack that contains a magnetic Christmas photo frame, an iphone cover and an in-season family pass for four people.

Parental Guidance is the hilarious new comedy in cinemas Boxing Day, perfect for the whole family this summer holidays.

Comedy legends Billy Crystal and Bette Midler star as Artie and Diane Decker, who are called in by their daughter (Marisa Tomei) to help care for their three grandkids. When their oldschool parenting methods collide with their daughter’s new-school ways, the once-orderly household spins out of control!

8 Offspring | summer 2013

Join O Magaz ffspring ine F page t acebook od your c ay for hance win! to

Kids encouraged to get surf smart this summer A summer’s day spent at the beach is a favourite past time for many Australian families.

Children’s ability to be familiar and comfortable at the beach and in the water is a high priority for Surf Life Saving Western Australia and lead to the development of the popular Surf Babies, Surf Kids and Surf’s Up community education programs.

Surf Babies and Surf Kids are six week programs for children aged two to seven and are designed to increase awareness, confidence and safety at the beach. The Surf Babies program caters for little beachgoers (aged 2 to 4) and their parents. The program is especially helpful for parents who are unsure of the beach environment and is also a great way for mum or dad to bond with their child in a safe supervised environment. Children graduate to the Surf Kids program at the age of five where more advanced aquatic recreation skills are instructed.

Surf’s Up is Surf Life Saving WA’s summer school holiday program for children aged seven to ten. Run over three consecutive days, it is a fun filled interactive program allowing children to learn about and enjoy the beach environment through a range of fun beach and water activities.

Surf Life Saving WA’s Stevee Hudson said that the programs are unique in that they are instructed by fully qualified surf lifesavers and are suitable to children of all abilities.

“The beach is a great place for the whole family to have fun over summer, but it can also be a dangerous

environment for those unaware.

“Our programs are instructed by the same surf lifesavers that patrol Perth’s many beaches every summer,” said Hudson.

“They introduce basic beach safety messages and essential life skills in a fun and safe environment, ensuring that the children learn to recreate safely and to identify and avoid dangerous situations.”

SurfBabies

SurfKids Water and beach familiarisation program for children aged 2 to 7 Six week series commencing February 2 at Coogee, Cottesloe, Fremantle, Mullaloo, North Beach & Sorrento

Enrol Now: mybeach.com.au/SurfEd

Surfs' Up A three day school holiday program for children aged 7 to 10 7 to 9 Jan 2013 or 21 to 23 Jan 2013 Sorrento & Cottesloe For more info: 08 9207 6666 or email: training@slswa.com.au

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.

MELANIE HEARSE JOURNALIST and mother of seven and four year old boys, has worked on a range of local and national publications, focusing on parenting, health and lifestyle articles. She worked for 10 years in the public health sector before deciding to follow her passion to be a writer when her first son Max was born.

LISA FERNANDEZ RADIO ANNOUNCER is a Perth girl who co-hosts 92.9’s Lisa, Paul & Baz breakfast show with Basil Zempilas and Paul Hogan. As a mother, Lisa wants to “nurture, encourage, teach, inspire and give my love unconditionally... because the reward is so incredibly great.” Keep up-todate with Lisa daily on Twitter at @Lisa_Fernandez.

Tara Dryland Journalist When she’s not managing the family business (Cafe 58), Tara is busy being a single mum to her two-year-old son, Jett. She loves working for Offspring, as it allows her to merge her passions for writing, parenting and kids fashion!

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.

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.

Claire Armstrong Journalist a journalist of five years and a mother of two.

“I love a challenge, journalism provides me with a mental challenge and motherhood has the ability to challenge every aspect of my being, and I wouldn’t have life any other way.”

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!

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.

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.

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.”

ELISE PAPAMIHAIL FASHION & BEAUTY WRITER has had a diverse career in PR, events and marketing, and has always had a passion for style, beauty and fashion. Now a full-time mum to 18-month old Chloe, she has harnessed her creativity and love of fashion into her lifestyle blog for mums: thestylemama.com.au

10 Offspring | summer 2013

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info@gginspiration.com.au

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I’ve always stood out especially in Tasmania.

I was practically the only Asian...Now I’ve got this big pull to come back to Bali and be with my family I didn’t grow up with.

12 Offspring | summer 2013

What

LindyDid

By Ari Chavez

Photos: Nat Deague Photography

Entrepreneur, model, Balinese princess and wife to Olympic Swimmer, Michael Klim, Lindy, shares why, despite her privileges, she is not immune to the challenges of being a wife and mother; and why family support and maintaining a sense of self are crucial to the balance.

L

indy Klim is that most contemporary of things, a multi-hyphenate. She’s a Business-Woman-

the years passed.

“I’ve always stood out,” says Lindy, “especially in

Balinese-Princess-Former-Catwalk-Model-

Tasmania. I was practically the only Asian...Now I’ve got

Fashion-Designer-Wife-Of-Olympian-Michael-

this big pull to come back to Bali and be with my family I

Klim-And-Mother-Of-Three, for starters. Her life appears

didn’t grow up with. And when I see my children here as

to be a glamorous and blessed one, preposterously so.

well, they kind of belong, you can see it.

Indeed, observers could be forgiven for thinking that

“They go to school here and when they come out I don’t

Lindy is living a veritable modern-day fairytale, complete

even recognise them, I can’t see them amongst the sea of

with royal lineage, pots of gold and a handsome prince,

brown hair and brown faces. It’s really nice that they can

who also happens to be a dab hand at fast laps in the

identify themselves with their own little community.”

swimming pool.

It’s certainly no ordinary life. Behind all the gloss,

Lindy’s recent move to Bali, with her children, Stella (6), Rocco (4) and Frankie (16 months), was triggered by the

however, is a busy woman juggling the demands of

demands of Michael’s comeback for the London Olympics.

work, family and a public profile, while navigating the

Michael, one of Australia’s most admired swimmers, with

joys and challenges of raising her children to straddle

a string of records and medals, and an Order of Australia,

two vastly different countries and cultures, and call both

to his name, was determined to make the 2012 London

places home.

team, five years after retiring in 2007.

Lindy, founder of the organic skincare range for babies,

The ABC’s Race to London series documents his

Milk Baby, was born to a Balinese father, a prince in the

gruelling journey, giving an insight into the sacrifices

Denpasar Royal Family, and an Australian mother. She

elite athletes, and their loved ones, must make for a shot

lived a royal life in Bali for her first three years until

at medal glory. Lindy, who was filmed for the program,

her mother, chafing at the restrictions of a duty-filled

appeared a lonely figure, juggling family and the demands

existence, divorced Lindy’s father, and took her daughter

of the family business, Milk & Co, while Michael focused

home to Tasmania to raise her. It was a long absence. Lindy

on an increasingly demanding training regime.

didn’t return to Bali for 15 years, yet swapping Balinese

At the time, Michael stated, “Lindy made the biggest

ways for the chillier climes of the Apple Isle wasn’t always

sacrifice of all. She was basically a single mother for the

easy. And, despite the differences in language, culture and

whole time...There were times I needed to be pulled back

custom, the tug of her extended family grew stronger as

into line because I can get very obsessive about my sport.”

Offspring | summer 2013 13

Michael’s much-anticipated comeback was ultimately unsuccessful; however it proved to be a game changer for the Klim family, which was beginning to crack under the strain of his Olympic dreams. It was a far cry from Lindy and Michael’s first meeting in 2004 backstage at a fashion parade. Presciently, they were told to strut the catwalk together, Michael wearing a tuxedo and Lindy modelling a bridal gown. Two years later they married, baby Stella in tow.

Fast forward a few years and two more children, and Lindy is frank about the recent difficulties the family faced during Michael’s comeback period.

“When Michael decided to go back to swimming...

Despite the differences in language, culture and custom, the tug of her extended family grew stronger as the years passed.

every month for an extended period. Even the Witching

to make the London games it was really difficult on our

Hour of dinner-bath-teeth-bed, dreaded by parents

family,” she says. “I was pregnant with Frankie at the same

everywhere, is easier.

time. It was really hard, with work as well.

“After I had Frankie and he’d finished and retired for good

“It’s hard for Michael, because he doesn’t see the children as much,” says Lindy. “But...we’re really happy

I kind of said to him, ‘I feel like we’re going to break if we

here. The children are happy, I’m happy. I’m not resentful

don’t do something about it. How about we move to Bali for

towards him for not being around and helping at bath

a couple of months and completely reunite as a family and

time or bedtime because I have people here to help me.

get some kind of...I don’t know, just relax a little bit more’

And I can do my work easily...I can do the Asia and Europe

because it was just so hard. And he said ‘yes’.”

side of things from here. I find it a lot easier to juggle the

The move, while temporary, appears to have worked, with the children settled and Michael, who is based in Melbourne for work commitments, visiting the family

14 Offspring | summer 2013

children-work thing here, to be honest.”

Lindy’s work includes her Milk Baby organic range, which sits alongside Michael’s Milk range of skin products

for men (Milk is Klim spelt backwards). Lindy decided to develop the range after the birth of her first child, Stella, after failing to find skin care products she felt comfortable using on her new baby.

Milk Baby’s products, with names such as Snotty Grotty Room Spray and Milk Baby Toothy Pegs, are stocked in Australia, the UK, Denmark, China, Singapore and Malaysia, and sold in online stores in Switzerland, Hong Kong & New Zealand. Milk & Co has annual turnover of $4.5 million, and growing, but Lindy is careful to point out that the expansion of the brand overseas, where she and

Juggling three kids and a growing business is no walk in the park, but Lindy sees the opportunity to maintain a sense of self outside the role of ‘Mum’ as a key, even crucial, benefit.

Michael are not well known, is not about having a celebrity profile. The products are successful in their own right.

Offspring | summer 2013 15

“We’re doing so much export...which is fantastic for the brand. I think that’s really nice that... the brand is speaking for itself and the product is speaking for itself, not just the fact that Michael and I are behind it,” she says. “I’m really proud of our business and we have big plans for it to grow in a really big way in the next five years.”

Juggling three kids and a growing business is no walk in the park, but Lindy sees the opportunity to maintain a sense of self outside the role of ‘Mum’ as a key, even crucial, benefit.

“I think that being a parent can consume you so much and sometimes all you can think about is your children and you lose a part of yourself, which I didn’t like losing.”

“I wanted to still be me and I wanted to still have a relationship with my husband and I still wanted to have a relationship with my friends. I feel like you can still do all of that and it’s just about managing your time, and try not to make yourself feel guilty while you leave your kids to go out for dinner.”

Dinners out aside, what of that old chestnut, possibly invented by a childless person, The Working Mother and

Behind all the gloss is a busy woman juggling the demands of work, family and a public profile.

Work Life Balance? Lindy sighs, sounding like every other mother when taking a mental inventory of the demands on her time.

“The worst thing is definitely that I’m exhausted all the time,” she says. “I’m sure a Stay At Home Mum is completely exhausted as well. Sometimes I find that I’m trying to be everything to everybody. Instead of ‘just take a breath and say no occasionally’, which is hard to do.”

Lindy may be well advised to inhale deeply, because the Milk & Co brand is about to get bigger with her new apparel collection, that has a sports luxe feeling about it, scheduled to debut in 2013.

“For me and our Milk brand, it’s about that easy living lifestyle. I spend a lot of my time in workout gear running around with the kids...It’s basic pieces that you can mix and match.”

“Apparel is a natural progression for me, I’ve always been into fashion so heavily,” she says, pausing to think for a moment. “I really do think it’s important...having your own goals.”

There’s no doubt that Lindy Klim has goals galore. All her own.

16 Offspring | summer 2013

Sun & Sea

f r u S From bathers to boardies, kaftans and rashies, kids summer fashion is cool, fun and fresh!

1. Love Henry Plane Singlet $22.95 & Navy cotton shorts $25.95. Love Henry Lolly Jar Singlet $22.95 with Love Henry Skirt with Bloomer $26.95 2.

Holiday Splice Print Sundress, $59.95 3. Milky Sparkle Dress $33.00 4. Milk n Soda Flora Straw Fedora RRP $29.95 5. Ouch Bead Bracelet - $6.95 6. alex & charli Picnic Playsuit – Broderie, $49.95 7. alex & charli Friday Frill Dress fairy Floss, $64.95 8. Native Jefferson Shoes – Hollywood Pink $49.95 9. Milky Motorbike Tee $17.95 & Milky Cargo Pant Navy $35.00 10. Milky Crayfish Tee & Milky Denim Jean.

Stockists: www.alexandcharli.com www.babesbythebeach.com.au www.funkykids.com.au www.skiptmylou.com.au

17-19 KIDS FASHION.indd 17

Offspring | summer 2013 17 25/11/2012 22:00

1. SeaFolly Rococo Rose 70’s Halter Skirtini $54.95 2. Seafolly Miss Riveria Halter Skirtini $54.95 3. Tiger Joe Basic Rashie – Fire $39.95, Tiger Joe Cargo Boardshorts $49.95 4. Tiger Joe Coastal Board short $49.95 5. alex & charli Friday Frill Dress – blue dandy, $64.95 6. Milky Frill Yardage 1 piece swimsuit, $33.00 7. Milk n Soda Darcy Sunglasses $19.95 8. Ouch Ruffle Vintage Dress, $54.95 9.

Ouch Bead Necklace $12.00 10. alex & charli Friday Frill dress – Pink dandy, $64.95 11. Milk n Soda Mason Straw Fedora RRP $29.95 12. Sudo Top Floor Tee Shirt RRP $29.00 13. Sudo Nautical Green Shorts $59.00 14. Tiger Joe Jungle Fever LS Rashie – Fire $49.95 - Tiger Joe Jungle Fever Surf Hat $34.95.

Stockists: www.alexandcharli.com www.babesbythebeach.com.au www.funkykids.com.au www.skiptmylou.com.au

18 Offspring | summer 2013 17-19 KIDS FASHION.indd 18

25/11/2012 21:58

1. Milky Anchor Romper, $24.95 3.

Milky Elephant Romper, $24.95 4.

Milky Motorbike Tee, $17.95 & Milky Denim Short, $34.95 5. Milky Crazy Daze Rashie $30.00 & Milky Panel Boardie $30.00.

Stockist: www.funkykids.com.au

Back to School for kids Professional fitting service Owned & operated by podiatrist We stock shoes for babies, kids & teen teens Affordable prices Child-friendly shop - fun for kids & easy for parents!

Open 7 days a week!

Mon-Sat 9-5.30 and Sunday 10-3

Visit us at 70 Eighth Ave, Maylands Phone 9371 2951 www.magicshoebox.com.au

Offspring | summer 2013 19 17-19 KIDS FASHION.indd 19

25/11/2012 21:59

Dirty play

“The is secret nd dirt, a .” it lots of

By CLAIRE ARMSTRONG

Donned the Queen of Commonsense, Maggie Dent has most bases covered when it comes to credentials, with notches in her belt as an author, educator, counsellor, celebrant, international speaker, expert in early years and adolescent parenting, resilience specialist and mother to four boys.

Kr�ty M�nix PHOTOGRAPHY

20 Offspring | summer 2013

children were born.

“The secret is dirt,” Maggie quips.

“Dirt, and lots of it.”

Could it really be that simple?

In her familiar, passionate, banter Maggie went on to explain through her seventeen years of teaching in Western Australian schools, and then working as a counsellor, as well as raising four boys into happy and well rounded young men, that the real secret to raising kids is to let them play, explore and have fun while allowing them the chance to make mistakes, get dirty and occasionally get hurt.

“Today’s modern lifestyles, full of game consoles, social media and television is having a consequence on our children’s development and kids as young as five are suffering clinical depression and anxiety disorders,” Maggie explains.

“We have created a world so busy,

I

f you were to mention the name

so competitive and an education

Maggie Dent in parenting circles

system so focused on academic results

chances are someone would have

that we are providing our children

subscribed to her values, heard her

with fewer and fewer opportunities for

on radio, attended a seminar or read

unstructured play. We are diminishing

one of her five books in the quest

their freedom to just be kids.”

Without hesitation Maggie finger-

for answers on how to survive in the

points NAPLAN testing as well as

world of parenting.

compulsory starts to pre-primary years

Maggie could never be accused of

as some of the main catalysts.

tiptoeing around the truth. She holds

“The irony is that 20 years ago

strong on her values and isn’t afraid to voice them. While her work touches

children were turning up to Year

a vast array of issues across the

One better prepared and with less

parenting spectrum: homework and

learning delays, stress and anxiety

education, emotional development,

related illnesses and hyper-sensitive

bullying and suicide, gender

behaviours than the children of

differences, play, crisis management

today. We now have a world full of

and building resilience, her heart

information available at our finger

never wavers from its true ambition of helping parents raise happy and healthy kids in the modern world.

When Offspring spoke with Maggie she straight up offered to let us in on a secret. A little secret about raising children. All ears tuned in and we waited with baited breath. She may have ensnared a copy of that mythological user manual that failed to be handed out to us when our

Maggie’s best piece of advice?

Have fun and spend as much time as you can with your child in the first three foundation years because children who experience joy and delight through free play are psychologically stronger and a have greater capacity to overcome adversity in the adolescent years.

tips but we rely on Google instead of instinct and sweeping national standards of achievement rather than tuning into the individual child.

“We spend so much time trying to safely guide our children and prevent bad things from happening to them that we are dissolving their ability to judge risk for themselves which ironically sets them up for disaster in this unpredictable world.”

Offspring | summer 2013 21

have flaws,” she says.

Buoyant with enthusiasm,

“Children need to know they are

Maggie divulges how play teaches us to learn to wait, to

valued and loved. Feeling invisible or

take turns, to develop the art

unloved causes enormous stress to a

of strategy, to lose and to win

child’s nervous system. Often children

graciously. It’s also fantastic

can become emotionally needy and

exercise and can reduce stress.

anxious about getting the love they yearn.

Perhaps most importantly,

“Remember, children don’t see all

unstructured play stimulates our curiosity, our “seeking

the cooking, washing and cleaning

mechanism”. An under-active

as signs of love and connection. To

seeking mechanism in adulthood

feel loved, children need to hear the

can contribute to a person staying

words, have loving touch and know

stuck in an unloving relationship,

that you are ‘present’ to them.”

It sounds easy. But in reality

or a boring and soulless job. And no one wants to sign their child

or coast - somewhere over the last ten

parents are busy people. Many parents

up for that!

years parenting became a competition

work or have a litany of demands upon

with the perception of having to be

them and limited capacity to play

as a society, don’t start taking play

a perfect parent and also having the

without time constraint. An excuse

more seriously and allow our children

perfect child. This in turn is increasing

maybe, but for many, this is reality.

to take a few risks, we are denying

anxiety in our kids.

“If we, as parents, teachers, indeed,

“Anyone with young children in

“I have never met a perfect human

their household needs to make play

human beings,” and the sense of

being so why do we pressure our kids

a priority,” Maggie is staunch on this

urgency in her voice is clear.

to be exceptional and perfect? There

point. “Spontaneous moments of

is no perfect child, parent or teacher.

connection are more valuable to a child

There never was nor will be. Humans

than timetabled quality time.”

them the opportunity to be resilient

Sadly, the problem doesn’t discriminate - country or city, outback

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22 Offspring | summer 2013

Shop 16/17 Dolphin Quay, Mandurah WA M: 0434 142 838

sense that you are always

You can put your diary

with them.”

down.

The love bridge can do

Often the only time in our busy days, when we

wonders for anxiety in

can really relax, focus and

children (and alleviate some

connect with our children is

parental guilt for times

at bedtime. Perfect. Maggie

when you can not be with

describes how following a

them).

Are you ready for

loving bedtime ritual every

another secret? It’s about

night is an extremely powerful way of anchoring your love for your child and reducing anxiety.

Maggie gives the tip that the last thing your child should hear every

“We now ha ve a world full of information available at our finger tips but we rely o n Google inste ad of instinct.”

presence not presents. With Christmas just around the corner, Maggie reminds us than all the stars in

creative thinkers and don’t need

the night sky and

the latest fancy toys to predict and

more than all the hairs on all the bears’

and they still remember

night before entering the land of nod is how much you love them and fostering the

it,” she says.

“It’s about creating a sense of

concept of a love that transcends all

connection even in absence. For

boundaries and absences. A concept

children, particularly under four years,

she has aptly named a love bridge.

“I always told my boys ‘I love you

channel their play, instead the best gift would be spending time together discovering, playing and making magical memories. That might mean going away on holidays together or just spending time at home.

“It’s important not to be swayed by

repeating the concept nightly and

advertising and commercial pressures,

planting the idea of the enormity of

and enjoy a little of the magic that

your love can create an almost tangible

comes but once a year.”

BRAND STJO0399C

more than all the grains of sand on

that children are naturally

every beach, more

Your child is choking, what do you do next?

Encourage child to relax, breathe deeply and cough to remove object.

Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance.

Bend child well forward and give 5 back blows between shoulder blades.

The answer could be the difference between life and death. St John Ambulance offers a range of First Aid courses from 2 hours to 4 days. Courses start from just $49 and with 13 metro training centres there’s a good chance we’re close by. For course bookings call 9334 1233 or visit stjohnambulance.com.au today and get the answers you need to save a life.

Answer: All of the above.

Offspring | summer 2013 23

Waxed jeans. Forget coloured and leather, the new waxed jean is in.

Perfect with an oversized tee. Hudson Jeans $195.74 from Nordstrom.com OVERSIZED TEE. The perfect match to shorts for ultimate summer comfort. Wear it plain with added accessories or with bright patterns. et Seq Fashion Floreat $220.

Hot Summer Trends

By Elise Papamihail

CHUNKY HEELS. Work in with a mini dress for a special summer occasion. theethos.com.au

Tribal Accessories.

Show your inner jungle vibe with chunky and bright accessories. Kookai.

The style trends you must have in your wardrobe this summer.

The maxi skirt.

Light, breezy, maximum impact.

Wear with a tucked in tee or tank and add chunky wedges. Sizzling!

Kookai $260.00.

White. Cool, European chic.

Wear head to toe for the maximum effect or add to brights and other patterns.

Harry N Gretel Leederville $219.

COCKTAIL RING. Add a statement cocktail ring to a simple summer outfit for added bling. theethos. com.au

Come to us for chic and affordable kids’ products, ladies apparel, handbag liners/organisers and travel accessories. www.goshopinc.com.au goshopinc@gmail.com Like our Page on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest updates, photos, offers and more facebook.com/goshopinc twitter.com/goshopinc

ÂŽ

18 24 Offspring | summer 2013

Metallics.

For a dazzling impact add a touch of gold, silver and rose gold to everything you wear. Siren Shoes $119.95 from et seq fashion Floreat.

Baroque. Think art deco 30’s embellished. Perfect in a cuff or go over the top glam head to toe. Mimco $169.00.

Statement shades. Chunky, 50’s inspired, round, square, embellished.

Whatever works for you, work it.

Sass and Bide $229.00.

neons. Think the brightest of the bright and don’t be afraid to shine. Sass and Bide $190.00.

Anything green. From pastel, mint green to fluro lime and emerald.

One green item is a must this summer. Mimco $229.00.

Geometric patterns.

Brightly coloured or black and white, mix and match your patterns and go for bold. Kookai.

T-SHIRT DRESS. Add flats and a fedora for total summer comfort. Poppy Lissiman Addition Claremont.

Do you need a pick me up this season?

Indiglo Colour and Image Consulting • • •

Learn your best colours for clothes, hair and makeup to make you glow Understand your body type and best styles of clothing I can go shopping for you!

A fresh wardrobe that’s perfect for you

For less than the cost of making yet another mistake clothing purchase! www.indiglo.com.au m: 0448 627 528 e: nadine@indiglo.com.au

Offspring Offspring | summer | winter 2012 2013 25

1

about town

1. Sass and Bide $220.00 2. Kookai 3. Mimco $149.00 4. Sass and Bide $150 5. Mimco $69.95

Inspired by stylish celebrity mums Rachel Zoe and Gwen Stefani, channel your inner urban funk. Simple loose fitting tees and tanks with shorts, cargo pants, flats and a Fedora says ‘comfort with style’. You can always pretty it up with embellishments on your tees.

2

4 Celebrity style icon Rachel Zoe and son Skyler

3 5

By Elise Papamihail

Your how-to guide & chic summer style for every occasion.

1

2

Summer means the sweetness of celebration is in the air. From buzzing social occasions to enjoying the magic of the crisp blue ocean, there’s never been a better time to heat up your wardrobe of style. With inspiration from our favourite celebrity mums, we’ve got an outfit for every summer occasion covered.

4 3

day aT THE BEACH 1. Kookai $90.00 2. City Beach $19.95 3. Cotton on $14.95 4. Country Road $59.95 5. Limited edition Sass and Bide Havianas $49.95

26 Offspring | summer 2013

&

Sunshine

Gwen Stefani and son Kingston

Keep your style simple with a great bikini or one piece, oversized shirt, tee or kaftan, thongs, a hat and finish with statement shades.

Celebrity images: CELEBRITYBABYSCOOP.COM

5

1

bbq fun with friends

Sarah Michelle Gellar with daughter Charlotte.

There’s nothing more enjoyable than a gathering of friends and family around the BBQ on a hot summers day. Especially when afternoon fun continues well into the night.

Think floral, tropical and whimsical colours. Maxi dresses, flowing skirts and tucked-in loose fitting tanks are the perfect partner to wedges, sandals and statement accessories.

5

&

2

3 4

1. Kookai $260.00 2.

Kookai 3. Kookai $129.00 4. Siren wedges $149.95 from Harry N Gretel 5.

Samantha Wills bangle from theethos.com.au

Sunset 2 1

3

cocktail hour Cocktail soirees and evening gatherings provide an opportunity to dazzle. When planning your outfit for a cocktail party or event, let your mind escape with the sophistication of black and white, bright tropical colours or the Grecian goddess look of golds and metals. The less is more approach always applies.

1. Sirenshoes.com.au $129.95 2. Kookai 3. Antik Batik dress netaporter.com 4. Seduce clutch $59.95 from et seq fashion Floreat

Jennifer Lopez sizzles in white with daughter Emee.

4

Offspring | summer 2013 27

OFF THE AIR

with Lisa Fernandez

Birthday bonanzas

gone bananas Lisa makes a bold stand to opt out of kids’ birthday parties

I

’m going to share a fact with you

up with a plethora of brilliant, new,

right now that might result for you

innovative ideas so that my child can

spitting out whatever hot beverage

have a better party than Sally up the

you’re consuming or cause you to want

road, because hers was a circus theme

to throw a heavy object at a picture of

with proper clown machines where

my head, so my advice would be to stop

you can stick balls into their mouths

drinking immediately and move away

and all the kids ate fairy floss and

from all objects not connected to the

toffee apples and would you believe

floor or plugged into the wall.

that her mother hired ponies for the

This fact is humiliating to admit and

kids to ride on the front lawn and it

it’s a game changer in parenting. Good,

gets better because Tinkerbell herself

loving, decent mothers shouldn’t feel

flew all the way from Pixie Hollow

this way. But I do. And I want to get it off

just to say hello as she is great friends

So I’ve worked out my modus

my chest. The fact is, I hate children’s

with Sally’s mum. Oh please. Give me

operandi to explain to my precious

birthday parties. Yes. You read correctly.

a break. Without a party planner I

child for years to come why this is the

I hate them. Including the birthday

cannot afford, and a thousand helpers

case and why she is never, ever, going

parties of my own child. I don’t want to

I can’t pay on the day, I’m not going to

to have a fantastic birthday party like

have them and I get absolutely no joy

be able to top Sally’s party EVER.

Sally. I’m going to lie. Well ok, let’s say

out of attending them.

Let me go so far as to say that I

But I’m not ignorant to the pressures on kids these days to fit in with their

have bestowed upon them.

I’ll stretch the truth.

I’m going to tell Bells (my three year

cringe at the thought of year, after

peer groups and to be able to talk about

old) that mummies only have a certain

year, after bloody year, having to come

awesome experiences their parents

amount of money for one special thing

For all your kids f ing, toys & gifts. ur niture, linen, cloth

www.funkykids.com.au Nurture, Love, Give 28 Offspring | summer 2013

Wembley Garden City Karrinyup Whitfords

352b Cambridge Street Wembley shop 84 Garden City Shopping Centre shop F122 Karrinyup Shopping Centre Westfield shopping Centre Hillarys

“I am a busy working mum who still loathes the thought of ready to come every year, and Sally’s organising back. Also, I was mummy uses her money a child’s not a typical role to hire ponies that hate birthday model parent (I was being ridden by annoying party.” a single mum working children who grab them by the hair and kick them in the ribs so

full-time and living with

they go home and cry. Hopefully she

my Dad), and these facts only

will see the error of Sally’s mother’s

served to lower my self-esteem

ways and ask what special thing we will do for the year. Which will

and I absolutely doubted my capabilities as a parent. So to be

be my cue to explain that we do

approached by a parenting

a much more special thing than

magazine to talk about

Sally’s diabetes-enabling, ponyabusing mother because I take

parenting was completely out of I was met at my house a

hours in the pool and Mummy drinks

few days later by a young

Daiquiris which make her relaxed

girl who looked about

and fun and, really Bells, if you had

18 years old. It turns

mummy or diabetes in later life?

Yep. I reckon I’m on a

out she was Offspring’s founder and editor, Kate, and after chatting with her for a few

winner with that one. Sally’s

hours I realised there were others

mum is probably having a

out there juggling being mothers

nervous breakdown from the

and wives, while taking on jobs

stresses of organising a small child’s

and careers that are, to be brutally

birthday party of epic proportions

honest, really bloody challenging.

while I am sitting on my couch

That day was, as they say, a game

googling Bali Villas and thinking

changer. My meeting with Kate

about how many Christmas presents

opened my eyes to the fact that

I can buy in one Balinese DVD store.

there are lots of women doing more

What can I say? I’m super practical.

challenging jobs than me and doing

I’m sharing all of this with you because my daughter turned three

them well.

Since then I have become

in October. I can recall like it was

less hard on myself about the

yesterday being asked to feature on

parenting decisions I have made

the cover of the inaugural Offspring

and will continue to make. I am

magazine when she was only a

a busy working mum who still

few months old. But I can honestly

loathes the thought of organising

say that back then, I wasn’t sure I

a child’s birthday party. So when

should do it.

my workplace offered to do just

I was just easing into my breakfast

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us both to Bali where we swim for

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show on 92.9 and by easing I mean

opportunity and it was an absolute

struggling. Being up from 3.30am

blast. The very first ‘Baby Rave’ in

whilst breastfeeding and thinking of

Perth on the rooftop of my station.

strategies to get inside Lady Gaga’s

Brilliant. Because I organised

hotel room are a lot to deal with, and

nothing. I wonder what Sally’s mum

I felt quite alone. I had to work to

would’ve thought? But then again,

earn money, I’d made a commitment

should I really care if my kid had

to my co-hosts and I’d said I was

fun on her birthday?

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Offspring | summer 2013 29

special feature

Gift Guide

All I want for

Christmas

By Tara Dryland

Once again we’re crossing off the days on our advent calendars to that magical morning where the kids wake up at the crack of dawn, jump on your bed and demand your bleary-eyed presence at the foot of the Christmas tree. So, to help you end the eternal quest for a gift that’s smart, durable and more fun than the box it came in, we have compiled a list of our top gift picks that will ensure Christmas 2012 is one to remember!

orn Newb2 to years

B

abies’ toys need to stimulate the senses.

Choose toys that are colourful, textured or make noises. A good bet would be mobiles, teethers, soft-cloth rattles, plastic keys on rings and soft toys.

Easy to grasp rattles are a great way to entertain young babies. These Dandelion Pretend Play rattles, will help your bub to discover bold colours and shaker sounds. from They are lovingly hand crocheted by women working $15.99 from home in Shanghai, Made from Bamboo Thread $18.99 and Corn Fibre filling they are machine washable Dandelio n and simply adorable. www.avidiva.com.au

$33.95 from Save Our Sleep Store

Comforters are a great choice for newborns.

The Save Our Sleep® Comforters are silky soft and have satin ears and trims. Made of solid plush on one side and softer silkier plush on the other, each comforter has a character head in the centre. Lovable and cuddly, they will keep your baby company while he is falling asleep or resettling. www.shop.saveoursleep.com.au

30 Offspring | summer 2013

These unique, handmade and personalised cushions make a magnificent addition to your child’s room, with loads of designs to choose from, there is sure to be one to match your baby’s personality. Pop it on their bed or favourite chair to make their room their very own sanctuary. www.bubbabling.com.au

$30.00 from Bubba Bling

special feature

A classic wooden toy; little hands will be busy stacking and learning with this sweet kitty cat version in a rainbow of colours with white base and soft toy cat at the top. www.naturatoys. com.au

$26 .9 from 5 Mic ki

$90.00 from Avidiva

$39.95 from Milk Baby

Avidiva has a variety of animal themed wooden ride-ons ($90), rockers ($110) and walk and rides ($105) including cows, rabbits, sheep and tigers. www.avidiva.com.au

Included in this cute little bundle is a bath time hair and body wash and nighty night room spray, which relaxes and calms your baby preparing them for a snug and happy sleep. www.avidiva. com.au

$27.95 from Ever Earth

Wooden pull-alongs, although simple, can be hours of fun. These ones are beautifully made-to-last and are toys that can be played with and treasured forever. Giraffe $39.95 www.babysgotstyle.com.au ; T-Rex $27.95 www.ecotoys.com.au

CHILDREN’S CLASSES OFFERED IN:

Hip Hop Ballet Jazz Contemporary Funky Dance From 3 years – adults

39 Winnacott Street, Willagee || (08) 9314 7997 For our full timetable including adult classes visit

Offspring | summer 2013 31

special feature

T

rs Toddle

his is when fads begin so if they ’re mad for dinosaurs or fairies, nothing else will satisfy them! Other safe bets include simple puzzles, dress-u ps, musical instruments, outdoor equipment, pedal-powered toys with a helm et, and storybooks. Toddlers will still put small items in their mouths though , so large solid wooden toys, blocks, soft toys, rideon trucks and cars, large colo ured balls or bucket-and-spade sets are safe .

$9.95 from Babys Got Style

Your budding gardener will adore this crack & grow eggling. Made from a white porous ceramic; it looks and feels like a large egg but crack its top and discover a garden ready to grow! www.babysgotstyle.com.au

$24.00 from Babys Got Style

$35.95 from Babys Got Style Lego blocks and crayons in one! This awesome set from Baby’s Got Style will keep littlies entertained for hours. Build a tower and then draw with it. Too cool. www.babysgotstyle.com.au

Bang, bang go the drums! Your little rock star can keep to the beat with this adorable drum set. www.babysgotstyle.com.au

STIR YOUR LITTLE ONES IMAGINATION... www.kidsplaytime.com.au

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unique online products A family owned company Fast delivery Excellent prices

08 9447 3717 sales@kidsplaytime.com.au • Newborn • Wooden Toys • Dinnerware • Wall Stickers • Swimming Gear and heaps more

32 Offspring | summer 2013

5 $37.9 er v E from th Ear

in a healthy way

the Healthy Mummy Smoothie is a nutritious and healthy meal replacement smoothie that:

Puzzles are such a great way to entertain toddlers whilst helping them to learn at the same time. They will love learning and building with these brightly coloured wooden building blocks of different Amazon animals. www.ecotoys.com.au

assist weight loss in a healthy and  Can safe way* support milk supply in breast Helps feeding mothers in Vanilla, Chocolate and  Available Strawberry flavours flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds and  Contains fenugreek been created by leading Australian  Has nutritionists high in fibre and protein & low in  Issugar

This award winning Ramp Racer is so much fun to play with as your child sends the cars racing down the track. www.ecotoys.com.au

Gift Guide

loSe weigHt

special feature

helping mums

 Is dairy and gluten free

9 out of 10 mums who use the range would recommend to a friend

$30.95 from Ever Earth

based on a survey in august 2012 with 402 mums who have used the healthy mummy smoothies

30-day

money back guarantee on every order

get your

10%

$38.95 from Micki

$38.95 from Micki

Classic wooden blocks are essential for learning and playing. This set of thirty wooden blocks in a rainbow of colours will keep little hands and minds busy and happy! Add a cart for storage and travel! www.naturatoys.com.au

discount by using code: off at the checkout.

when combined *with a diet and exercise plan

New Healthy Mummy Smoothies are available from

www.losebabyweight.com.au & www.healthymummy.com

Offspring | summer 2013 33

special feature

T

he preschool years are a time of such incredible change and development for children, and finding that perfect gift for kids aged four to six years can be a struggle.

Marnie Fawns from Bubba Blin g online boutique says make-b elieve is such an important learning tool for children in this age group.

ol Schod age kids

$249 from ft ra KidK This gorgeous house is sure to provide girls with hours of fun and imaginative play. It has four levels and six rooms of open space, 13 pieces of colourful furniture and a full outdoor patio. Can accommodate dolls up to 11.5� tall. www. bubbabling.com.au

Young chefs will love to “cook dinner� in this adorable red vintage kitchen (also available in pink). The play kitchen has doors that open, knobs that turn and lots of storage. www.bubbabling.com.au

$299 from KidKraft

from $39.95 Tiny Me

A Tiny Me personalised backpack is the perfect gift for your little student. Ceate your very own “Tiny Me�.

Choose the eye colour, hair colour, face shape and accessories and then apply it to any of their bag range! www.tinyme.com.au

Market Girl Boutique Handmade Market

'%&( -ARKSET $ATE

Gift Guide

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')i] BVgX]

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&-i] &.i] d[ BVn

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EgZcY^k^aaZ 8Vi]da^X 8daaZ\Z! DXZVc GZZ[

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$249 from KidKraft

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EgZcY^k^aaZ 8Vi]da^X 8daaZ\Z! DXZVc GZZ[ ;ddY

Visit our website for more information:

www.marketgirl.com.au

34 Offspring | summer 2013

@^Y

h

Every little girl needs a vanity table to keep her accessories. KidKraft’s white Medium Diva Table and Stool Set, are crafted from wood and are a stylish and pretty focal point for every little girl’s room. With two shelves for displaying small treasures and Queen-Anne style legs it’s perfect for your princess. www.bubbabling.com.au

special feature

These Lelby’s bean chairs are perfect for creating a much needed “chill out” zone. Your kids will love relaxing whilst they read a book or watch a movie in style. (With free shipping Australia wide) www. avidiva.com.au

.95 $99 om fr sy b Lel

$ that 40 onli shop ne Great for inquisitive little minds, the Tiger Tribe Roller 3 in 1 Maps are fun and educational. Tiger Tribe Roller Map - 5 + years 3 maps in 1 – the world, Australia and world maps. www.thatonlineshop.com.au

Funky Monkey Bars are designed for the backyard for active school aged kids. They are fully portable, with no need to cement them into the ground, yet are strong enough to take the weight of many friends. www. funkymonkeybars. com

With Christmas comes school holidays.

Keep the kids entertained and your sanity with these funky board games by Tiny Me. www. tinyme.com.au

fro $11 m 99

$29.95 from Tiny Me

West Australian Symphony Orchestra

Christmas Gifts for the Kids!

WATER CORPORATION PRESENTS

Kids’ Cushion Concerts

Includes audience favourites

I Like to Sing, Watermelon and Dinosaur Roar

5.30pm, Sun 17 Feb

Suitable for 2–7 year olds.

PERTH ZOO

Zoo exhibits open from 5.30pm – 6.30pm

7.30pm, Fri 7 Sept 2pm & 7.30pm, Sat 8 Sept Perth Concert Hall

Gimme, Gimme, Gimme the best music of the 70s! Dance your way into the Perth Concert Hall for a night of ABBA’s disco classics.

WASO joins vocal phenomenon, Rajaton Tickets performing ABBA Classics – Dancing * Queen, Mamma Mia, Fernando and more.

Tickets from $50*

$35

Tickets

$12*

Crash, bang, hum, listen, dance, sing!

JOONDALUP RECEPTION CENTRE 9.45am & 11.15am, Wed 20 Feb

Prance around and try out instruments in a lively performance with WASO’s 15 piece Education Chamber Orchestra (EChO).

WARDLE ROOM, PERTH CONCERT HALL 9.45am & 11.15am, Thu 21 & Fri 22 Feb

Suitable for 2–8 year olds.

Children under 1 free (ticket required)

Visit waso.com.au to see the full schedule of dates and locations of concerts.

BEAUMARIS COMMUNITY CENTRE 9.45am & 11.15am, Sat 23 Feb

BOOK NOW

*Transaction fees may apply.

WASO 9326 0000

For further information visit:

waso.com.au Offspring | summer 2013 35

special feature

Funky monkey bars

Little Bellies

Gift Guide Christmas Gift Pack Buy 3, get 1 free - $24.99

The Original available in red, blue, yellow, green, purple and silver - $1,199

Retro Rudolph plate - $24.99

Christmas Cheer Dinner Set - $34.99

The Challenger available in red, green, yellow, blue, purple or silver - $1,599

The Adventurer available in red, blue, green, yellow, purple and silver $1,899 Visit: www.funkymonkeybars.com or phone: 0409 336 477

Free delivery Visit: www.downthatlittlelane.com.au

melamine dinnerware for little people

速 Christmas dinnerware available now! www.downthatlittlelane.com.au

FREE DELIVERY WITHIN AUSTRALIA

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es is le ch ab an il Fr ava

For NOR call Michelle

For SOR call Diane

0466 606 890 0438 884 702 perth@littlekickers.com.au dcousins@littlekickers.com.au

36 Offspring | summer 2013

Penny pendant $250 includes stamping pictured with sterling silver large ball chain from $40

special feature

Gift Little Guide wooden toybox Hide & Seek Barn by Melissa & Doug $36.30, Magnetic animals hide behind latched doors - great for memory games!

LULU - $85 per pendant pictured on large ball chain from $40

Koolaman Designs Melody Mix - by I’m Toys $90.20, 10 instruments in one compact table!

Ned - hide collection $130 sterling silver pendant on a leather band Visit: www.koolamandesigns.com.au

Car Carrier - by Melissa & Doug $38.50

Visit: www.littlewoodentoybox.com.au

www.littlewoodentoybox.com.au

Offspring | summer 2013 37

The quest for

better breasts More and more women are going under the knife each year for breast augmentation surgery, for most it is about improving appearance and boosting self-confidence or getting back those pre-baby boobs. Offspring examined why these bags of silicone (or saline) are proving so popular and what is involved when you take the step to enhance your chest.

D

espite the recent French-made PIP-implant

All of these things contribute to society’s support and

scare, the popularity of breast augmentation

acceptance of this type of surgery – just as society is

around the world continues its steady incline.

more accepting of other cosmetic procedures now than

No longer confined to celebrities and strip clubs, our suburban neighbourhoods and playgroups are filling

it was 10 or 15 years ago.”

Problems like enlarged areolas, unevenly shaped

with these new perks, pardon the pun. And they

or ‘empty’ looking breasts and stretch marks are all

are becoming harder to spot with advancements in

common complaints from mums.”

procedures and implants able to give a more natural appearance than ever before.

Specialist cosmetic breast nurse at the recently opened Assure Breast Centre in Subiaco, Jill Brady, says the centre has seen the number of breast augmentation

“Breast surgery should be a personal choice and is only appropriate for women seeking to improve their own self image. A woman who is depressed or trying to please a partner should not have the surgery,” she says.

The three common types of breast surgery are

procedures at least double in the past 18 months with

enlargement, reduction and lift.

mums making up the largest increase in breast surgery.

Some reasons women consider breast enlargement:

“There is definitely increasing social acceptance of

• The breasts have reduced in size following pregnancy,

breast surgery,” she says. “Surgery is more accessible

breastfeeding or weight loss.

and surgical techniques have improved, costs are more

• The breasts are smaller than normal, uneven in size

affordable and the quality of implants has improved.

or out of proportion to body size.

38 Offspring | summer 2013

Short scar breast reduction and lift - AFTER

Short scar breast reduction and lift - BEFORE

• Reduce the size of the areolas.

• To boost self esteem and improve overall appearance.

• Balance the size and shape of unequal breasts.

Some reasons women consider a breast reduction:

• Increase the volume of breasts, in combination with

• The size of their breasts is uncomfortable.

a breast implant.

• Pain in the lower neck, shoulders or back, or the

Dr Brigid Corrigan, specialist Plastic Surgeon at Assure

breasts themselves.

Breast Centre says the choice of surgeon is the most

• Discomfort during physical activity.

important factor.

Breast lift surgery can help to:

“If you are thinking about surgery, the first step would

• Reshape sagging breasts and improve contour.

be lots of research and then booking a consultation with

• Increase the firmness of soft breasts by removing

a medical expert who will sit down with you and discuss

excess skin.

your expectations and the options that are right for you.

• Raise the position of downward-pointing nipples

If you decide to go ahead, an initial appointment with a

and areolas.

plastic surgeon would then be scheduled,” she says.

Shop 3, 16 Dolphin Drive Mandurah Ocean Marina Ph: 08 9582 8522 Open Mon to Sat 9am to 4.30pm Sun 10am to 4pm

Offspring | summer 2013 39

“Having the surgery involves at least two consultations with your surgeon, plus time for indepth thought about whether to proceed.

Early Orthodontic Treatment

“The process cannot be short-circuited over the internet, with photography and email substituting for face-to-face appointments with a qualified surgeon because techniques and options differ for each patient.”

Dr Corrigan elaborates that depending on the type of surgery, a patient can expect to stay in hospital a few hours or a few days, and explained there are a

Can give your child beautiful straight teeth with less invasive procedures

·

number of surgery methods available.

“The implant insertion, for example, can be done with a small incision under the breast, around the nipple or in the armpit,” she explains. “The plastic surgeon will determine the most suitable approach.”

Often no extractions of adult teeth are needed as we develop the jaw to fit the teeth

· Many children avoid braces altogether, whilst other children spend a reduced time wearing them

And an inevitable result of any surgery is scarring, generally a few centimetres long and often positioned below the breast, with fading expected over time.

Dr Corrigan says while the chance of postoperative problems is relatively low, some of the worst complications have occurred in patients who have travelled overseas for surgery.

· Jaw surgery is often avoided by

“Having the surgery involves at least two consultations with your surgeon, plus time for indepth thought about whether to proceed.”

starting treatment at a young age

Our patients travel from all over Western Australia and interstate seeking non extraction and early treatment.

DR BRIGID CORRIGAN

“There is no regulation of the industry in places like Asia, so consequentially the risk of postoperative problems is much higher,” she says. “People have told us cost is the main reason for choosing to travel overseas for cosmetic surgery, termed ‘medical tourism’ but if there are complications and revisions

As featured on A Current Affair Assessment for suitability required.

Not all children will be candidates.

required, that initial cost can blow-out.

And the cost?

While the cost will vary depending on the surgeon, anaesthetist, implants and hospital, the procedure usually ranges between $10,000 and $15,000. Some private health insurers will help with hospital bed and theatre fees, especially for reconstruction or reductions so having a GP referral will enable you to claim some of the cost.

9342 0066 www.nobraces.com.au

40 Offspring | summer 2013

Note to readers: The information presented is not an 1 Wingham Street, Marangaroo

endorsement of breast surgery. Readers must evaluate the options for themselves under medical guidance.

Real Life

Abby Cornish, single mum to Jye, 7 years

“I recently moved to WA from the

All up it cost me $11,500,

Gold Coast and breast implants are

which I pay off fortnightly, but I

fairly common over there. I heard

felt safer and more comfortable

advertisements on the radio for

having it done in Australia

different clinics and friends who

than going overseas. I know I

have already had the procedure gave

could have got them for around

me recommendations of reputable

$4,000 if I went somewhere

surgeons. I did some research and

like Thailand but I have heard

finding a surgeon that offered 100

horror stories.

per cent finance sealed the deal for

Prior to the surgery I had

me. I wanted them to look natural,

about four consults and had to start

weeks because it was too painful to

it was important to me that they

taking a Vitamin C and mineral

lie down, and was required to wear

didn’t look bolted on, so I opted for

powder drink everyday to boost my

a sports bra 24 hours a day for six

Brazilian teardrop implants inserted

immune system.

weeks. I was still on Endone for the

through the nipples, which were also

I stayed in hospital four hours

pain a week later and took two weeks

reshaped. I am a small person and

in total and was sent home with

off work. The recovery was very hard

went for a large C-cup, small D-cup,

Endone and Arnica. I wasn’t allowed

and very emotional for me.

depending on the bra, from my

to shower for two days after surgery,

previous A-cup.

had to sleep sitting up for about two

continued on page 42

AlwAys do A full loAd. (just like your kids.)

Much as we adore them, our littlies love to make a mess.

And whether it’s dirty nappies, the odd projectile vomit, or the daily battle of the bib, they never go for halfmeasures. Nor, or course, should you. So next time you’re washing whatever your kids decide to throw up, at or on their clothes, always be sure to do a full load. As well as saving a little of your sanity, you’ll be saving a lot of water too. For more water saving tools and tips,

303WATER3763

visit target60.com.au

Offspring | summer 2013 41

continued from page 41

I am concerned about what will happen if I have subsequent children and try to breastfeed but the surgeon assured my after the first year it would be safe to fall pregnant and if I wanted to breastfeed, it all still should work as normal.

I have heard from friends that in order to keep the implants looking ‘perky’, the surgery should be redone in about 10 years, and while the end result is worth it, the pain of the recovery means I doubt I will go through it again.

It has been almost a year since surgery and they are looking and feeling very natural now. I am very pleased with the results.

For me the surgery has given me back what I had before pregnancy, breastfeeding and weight loss and renewed my confidence after separating from my husband.

42 Offspring | summer 2013

Here come the grandparents – there go your rules!

The hilarious upcoming family movie Parental Guidance (in cinemas Boxing Day) shows us that when it comes to parenting, the generation gap has never been wider. Old-school grandparents Artie and Diane (played by comedy legends Billy Crystal and Bette Midler) are laid back, while their Mum (Marisa Tomei) is hands on and up-tight, micromanaging every detail of their children’s lives. Take a deep breath Mum if you dare, and follow the grandparent’s Parental Guidance tips for less stress during the silly season!

1. Let them eat cake: Sometimes you have to lighten up, your kids deserve a treat!

2. Let them lose: Of course it’s not about if you win or lose, why would you play otherwise?

3. Let them be alone: Give the schedule a break, let them learn to entertain themselves!

4. Let them melt down: Let them get it out of their system, just close the door, it will pass!

5. Let them get scared: They’ll get over getting scared and be stronger because of it!

For more grandparent parenting tips, be sure to catch Parental Guidance, in cinemas Boxing Day (with popcorn!).

Early Learning Music classes help children develop physical, emotional, social and musical skills in a stimulating and fun environment.

M

enjoyable, educational music classes

developed during the first five years

eight years, and beyond. They are

qualified, trained teachers who use

of life. The first three years of a child’s

designed to help children develop

their extensive knowledge of child

life are fundamentally the time of

physical, emotional, social and

development and music education to

the most growth physically, verbally

musical skills in a fun environment

design programs specific to the needs

and emotionally. Music stimulates,

full of singing, moving, dancing and

of the children in each music class.

educates, helps concentration and

playing percussion instruments. The

soothes the soul.

classes are sequential and follow

usic researchers have found

Early Learning Music (ELM) offers

that the musical intellect of an adult is largely

for children aged sixteen months to

Infants who are exposed to music with assisted movement

a developmental program that is

EARLY CHILDHOOD

For the love of music

suited to the needs and capabilities of each child.

The classes are run by highly

Operating out of Scotch College, ELM is a Kodaly music school, a member of the Do-Re-Mi association of Australia.

ELM strives to help families

will remember and later demonstrate their learning when

develop an appreciation and love

they reach the age of independent

of music that can be nurtured and

movement and speech. Toddlers

shared, and last a lifetime.

who are struggling with single

If you’d like to find out about

syllable words will often sing

enrolling your child in a music

complete phrases and those

program with ELM please email

learning to walk spontaneously

ELM@scotch.wa.edu.au or phone

begin to dance.

0438 990 467.

Excellence in Music

For more inFormation contact Jenny on 0438 990 467

www.earlychildhoodmusic.com.au ELM is a dynamic music and movement program of excellence designed for boys and girls aged 6yrs and under Offspring | summer 2013 43

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.maternityandbaby.com.au Maternity & Baby is a WA based online boutique stocking a wide range of stylish maternity clothes and gorgeous baby clothes and accessories. Our maternity range includes well known Australian and international labels, with something for every occasion. Our baby range goes up to size 2 and includes a variety of organic cotton baby clothes.

We also stock blankets, wraps, nappy wallets and more. Visit us online today.

Contact: info@maternityandbaby.com.au

Special offer: Free shipping when you enter the code “OFFSPRING” at the checkout

www.avidiva.com.au

Avidiva is an online baby boutique filled with handmade, eco-friendly and organic baby products.

Avidiva offers a wide variety of unique products ranging from organic skin care to bed linen, wraps to BPA free dinnerware and glass bottles. Along with beautiful ranges of bamboo clothing, slings, hammocks, bean chairs, developmental toys and so much more.

All products must meet Avidiva’s high quality standards and all items are tried and tested on the most important little people in my life!

Befriend us on facebook and subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter at the Avidiva homepage.

Contact: 0420 720 930 info@avidiva.com.au

FREE SHIPPING

Australia wide for orders over $30

www.thatonlineshop.com.au

At thatonlineshop, their mission is to take everything you love about a good old fashioned shop on a high street and deliver it with the convenience of online ordering.

With a style and a service offering you can trust, thatonelineshop offers a range of carefully selected items for bubs, teens, children, ladies and gents as well as treasures for the home and garden.

Their good old ‘shop assistant ‘ customer service includes free gift wrapping and gift tags for those who want their items wrapped and ready to give.

Enter Offspring15 at the checkout for 15% discount on all products. Free shipping on orders $60 and over.

44 Offspring | summer 2012

OS Summer 12 Internet Picks.indd 44

26/11/12 9:24 AM

INTERNET PICKS

www.thebabyemporium.com.au

The Baby Emporium offers a great range of baby and children’s products at affordable prices. Whether it be for the little bub or tot in your life or a gift for a new edition we have plenty to choose from.

We are a new Perth based business and the proud stockists of • Aden and Anais • B.Box • Bibska Bibs • Kiddie Concepts • MummaBubba Jewellery • And Many more So take a look at our brand new online store at www.thebabyemporium.com.au and keep up to date with us on Facebook for our special offers and new products.

www.skiptomylou.com.au

Skip to my Lou is a Perth-based online boutique stocking some of the coolest clothing, accessories and giftware from Australia and around the world for babies and children aged 0-7. Brands include Milky, Kiniki, Flatout Frankie, Mini Rodini, ESP No.1, Alex & Ant, Coco & Ginger, Dandelion, Sudo, Mini & Maximus, TANE Organics, Babiators, Milk n Soda contact@skiptomylou.com.au

15% off store wide with the code offspring (valid until 28th February 2013)

www.eeena.com.au

Eeena focuses on ideal creations for mothers and children. We believe in thoughtful ideas that look cool, make you happy and add colour to your life. Eeena fully supports breastfeeding in public and hope that mums who feel uncomfortable, can breastfeed anywhere with our breastfeeding poncho. Our products are also affordable so everyone can enjoy them.

Our products include: • breastfeeding ponchos • easy wear dresses • driving sleeves • baby bean bags • kids snack tray and cup sets • handmade bracelets and earrings Please visit us online or contact us via email or mobile.

We’d love to hear from you! sales@eeena.com.au or 0412 622 974

www.alexandcharli.com.au

At Alex and Charli we believe in encouraging children to be children as long as possible in our fast paced world. This is reflected in the timeless simplicity of our designs.

Our range is easily recognisable through our use of quality fabric, with beautiful prints and vibrant colours, meticulous attention to details, and classic embellishments. On every level Alex and Charli is infused with the innocence, freshness and ‘joie de vive’ of children at play.

Visit our online store to experience the whole collection: • Newborn to 10 yr old clothing • Stainless steel drink bottles • Hair accessories • Baby wraps • Jewellery • Soft leather baby shoes and booties • Plus more……

Like us on Facebook to keep up-to-date with new arrivals and promos!

Offspring | summer 2012 45

OS Summer 12 Internet Picks.indd 45

26/11/12 9:24 AM

EARLY CHILDHOOD

Rock ‘n ‘Toddle -Music to your ears Current research confirms that the future academic success of your pre-schooler directly correlates with their participation in pre-kindy music and movement programs such as Rock ‘n’ Toddle.

A

dhering to progressive early childhood

skills. The program “demonstrates intuitive

philosophies, your child will also

awareness of the importance of supporting

benefit from Rock ‘n’ Toddle’s play-

whole body development to ensure physical

centred learning approach, further strengthening their developmental foundations and future

milestones are achieved”, says Ms Grieco.

Popular regular activities include

success. Early childhood education specialist

Ribbons of Improvisation, where

teacher, Ms Claudia Grieco, states children will

children interpret songs using ribbons

“experience movement and structured, play-

and movement; Animated Antics, a spin

based, learning opportunities that blend fine and

on traditional story time, and guest

gross motor skills with musical appreciation,

appearances from Ziggy (the unicorn

whilst also fostering creativity and child-centred

puppet).

First term themes include Me, Myself

independence” .

The program is presented in an interactive, fun

and I (Me), Clockwork (Time) and

and entertaining “gig” format using child-friendly

Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head

pop-rock music and exciting props to provide your

(Weather).

child with opportunities to explore and develop music, dance, movement, literacy, drama and social

Enrol now for 2013 at www. rockntoddle.com.au

DOES YOUR PRESCHOOLER LOVE TO SING & DANCE? Rock ‘n’ Toddle is an exciting new Music and Dance Educational Program presented in a live, interactive and entertaining “gig” format which is guaranteed to “rock the socks off” your “mini mosher”!

ROCK ‘n’ TODDLE- ‘GIGS FOR KIDS’ PROGRAM Combines fun with learning opportunities Introduces music, singing, dancing, movement, literacy and drama Features pop-rock music, professional performers, props, puppets and stardust!

Builds confidence Develops socialisation skills Provides opportunities to interact and bond with your child Adheres to progressive early childhood educational philosophies Is affordable at only $99/term (with discounts for additional family members)

Enrol before December 24 , 2012 to guarantee place for your a “mini mosher” and your chance to win your enrolment fe es for FREE!

Rock ‘n’ Toddle is now playing at venues across the metropolitan area. Don’t miss the opportunity to join the world of Rock ‘n’ Toddle today.

Enrol online today for the 2013 Program at www.rockntoddle.com.au.

Phone 6143 7789 Places are limited

46 Offspring | summer 2013

Discoverland at Scitech promises to be a wonderland of fun, learning and adventure for young children in 2013.

I

bubble-blowing.

ndulge all your child’s ‘why’ and

It’s not all about the tots though,

‘how’ questions by taking them to the home of curiosity and inquisitiveness

Mum and Dad will also be able to

– Scitech! Toddlerfest is on again from

use the opportunity to tap into

the 11th to 24th of February, turning

a range of helpful resources and

the centre into an exclusive haven for

connections from several not-

children aged zero to five.

for-profit and community groups including Ngala, Community Child

The six-time event is all about ‘learning through play’, using simple

Health Nurses, Kidsafe WA and

activities to help enhance a child’s

Playgroup WA. Free parking is available at the

learning and encourage young

City West complex that houses

developing minds.

The essence of Scitech’s Discoverland

Scitech (including in the undercroft

will be stretched into every corner of the

area) and a pram park area is also

centre, with a plethora of activities for

allocated within the centre. For

young children including a petting zoo

information on ticket prices, group

full of baby animals, daily puppet shows

bookings and other enquiries visit

on the big stage, Playdough creations and

scitech.org.au or call 9215 0740.

in Fasc

an d

s Ac tivitie

als Baby anim gh u o -d y la P ience Bubble sc e n Baby zo

EARLY CHILDHOOD

Toddlerfest at Scitech

Discoverlan d will be stretched in to every corner of th e centre wit h a plethora of activities for young ch ildren.

FEB RUA R ating events to ins Y 11 pire, educate -

captivate 0-5 year ol ds

24

ADvice oN the Big

stAg

e Kangaroo cr eek gang Puppet pres entations

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

ity child communurses n h lt hea Ngala p WA Playgrou A W fe sa Kid ginnings Better Be

PLUS MUCH

MORE!

AvoiD the queues Buy ticKets oNliNe Parking is free for Scitech visitors. We recommend you park in the undercroft area, however, there is also open-air parking available.

Please ask for free parking validation on arrival at our ticket office.

For more information please call scitech Bookings on 9215 0740.

Full program timetable on the scitech website.

Offspring | summer 2013 47

Classics Contemporary

Nursery Furniture & Accessories

‘Down to the Woods’ nursery bedding by Little Chipipi. Cot Quilt $129.95 Cot 3 pce sheet set $139.95. 100% Organic cotton. www. funkykids.com.au

Transform your new additions space with style!

By Jane Millington

www.happygoluckykids.com.au

OEUF Range is sustainable baby furniture. Classic Crib made from solid birch, Baltic birch plywood and eco-MDF. All finishes are non-toxic and water based. $1399. OEUF Classic hutch designed for Classic 4 drawer dresser.

Used for storage or change table.$2098 or $1499 for drawers only. Babyland, Osborne Park. www.babyland.com.au

Lad & Lass car prints.

Designed & made in Perth. $99 for 4 unframed. Ball and Skittle, Mt Hawthorn The Wheely series lamp. Designed & made in Perth. $130.00. www. ballandskittle.com.au

Moveables by Little Chipipi are Australian Made.

Magic awaits when the light is turned off and the cityscape comes to life! Glow town ‘Glow in the Dark’ wall stickers. $79.95. www.funkykids.com.au

Ubabub Wall Art. 8 designs available. Unframed. $69.95. www.funkykids.com.au

Specialising in location and outdoor shoots, including newborn, children and family portraits.

Photoshoot and 10 full size images on a disk start at $250.

For more information visit amberscobie.com.au, or to make a booking amberjane@iinet.net.au or 0457 999 174

48 Offspring | summer 2013

Ubabub NIFTY timber cot brings a 50’s aesthetic to the nursery. Walnut. $1199 + freight. www.funkykids.com.au

‘Farmland Friends’ nursery bedding

by Little Chipipi. Cot Quilt $129.95 Cot 3 pce sheet set $139.95. 100% Organic cotton. www.funkykids.com.au

Ubabub POD cot with clear acrylic sides with star-shaped cut-outs and moulded plywood frame creating a cocoon-shape for a distinct modern look. $899 + freight. www.funkykids.com.au

Mimi & Lou Lampshades.

4 designs. Prices start from $44.95. www.funkykids.com.au

OEUF Toy store. $649 www.babyland.com.au

Shatterproof perspex mirrors with removable adhesive to attach to wall. Scoops Design come in a pack of 3 varying sizes & designs. Supplied

by Smallish love, Subiaco Square. $59.95.

Seed Pod Bassinett with frame made from Bamboo. Supplied by Babyland, Osborne Park. $349

Battery operated LED Night Light.

Hand carved from timber. $45. Supplied

by Story Boutique, Floreat Forum

‘Wonderland’ nursery bedding by Little Chipipi. Cot Quilt $129.95 Cot 3 pce sheet set $139.95. 100% Organic cotton. www.funkykids.com.au

Ubabub Wall Art. 8 designs available.

Unframed. $69.95. www.funkykids.com.au

Sun-savvy Sun-savvy clothing Sun-savvy clothing

Cool, long long sleeves, sleeves, Cool, sleeves, 100% cotton 100%100% cottoncotton lightweight For Boys and Girls For Boys Boys and and Girls For

www.threesunpossums.com www.threesunpossums.com www.threesunpossums.com.au

Smartie Rug - WA designed, handmade in Nepal. Each ball is hand felted and then individually stitched together. 100cm Dia. $399.

Supplied by Story Boutique, Floreat Forum

Learn how to massage your baby with confidence The benefits of infant massage include: • prevents & relieves Colic, Constipation, Reflux & Painful Wind • Helps to overcome post-natel depression • improves sleep patterns • enhances the bonding process & much more

Group classes start from $29. Private Sessions are available, call to arrange a booking www.bubbaloocha.com.au Email info@bubbaloocha.com.au Call Tracy on 0405269951

Offspring | summer 2013 49

FUNNY MUMMY with Ari Chávez

No Fly Zone The funny perks of flying longhaul with a toddler as experienced by Ari

O

nce Upon A Time when

juncture, I’d heave an exaggerated

I was young, and didn’t

sigh of relief and thank my lucky

have any wrinkles, and

stars.

used to flit around the world on

Ah, well. I was young. The world

a whim, I’d watch parents board

turns, and most of us become

planes with toddlers and glower

wrinkled up parents of toddlers

at them. Ferociously. I’d will them

some day, and Karma, as they say,

Learn & grow through play!

not to trail their child and all its

is one hell of a Beyotch.

A Playgroup is a group of parents and other caregivers who meet with their children aged 0-5 for interaction and fun.

paraphernalia in my direction and sit next to me. I didn’t care

the best guy in the world who,

how apologetic they looked. I had

romantically at the time, grew up

been very busy and I had some

in two different countries on the

relaxing to do, and they looked,

other side of the globe. Fantastic, I

well, frazzled and un-relaxed.

thought. Not only do I get to marry

Jeez, couldn’t they put on some

the best guy in the world, I get to

clean clothes and brush their hair?

travel back to his two countries for

What was all that stuff they were

the rest of my life, stopping at a

carrying, anyway?

Hadn’t they heard of

Not a member yet?

travelling light? Of

A Playgroup WA membership offers:

probably had a whole

• • • • •

Member discounts Invitation to events Comprehensive insurance Meet new people Support TIN G 40 YEA RA R

S

F

C

EB

O PL

RO U P I N AY G W A

4

EL

ANNIVERSARY 1972 - 2012

Phone

1800 171 882 (Toll Free)

Visit

playgroupwa.com.au

Email

hotline@playgroupwa.com.au

I know this, because I married

minimalism? They house full of stuff.

They probably had ten houses, actually, bursting with stuff and toddlers. I hoped

‘most of us become wrinkled up parents of toddlers some day, and Karma, as they say, is one hell of a Beyotch’

they never moved

couple of places en route because the flights are so Very Very Very Long.

Score!

Ahem. That deludedness was before I had my baby, who has turned into a toddler who somehow has Energizer Bunny batteries running 24/7. Unfortunately, my

next door to me, with all their stuff

husband’s family and friends still

and overflowing bags and their

live a gazillion miles away and,

ten houses and 1000 toddlers. Ugh,

unless someone can tell me how to

what was the deal with toddlers

close my eyes and zap myself there

and snot, anyway? Couldn’t they

in an instant, like Samantha from

wipe the kid’s nose?

Bewitched, we’re long-hauling for

And, so it went. Sometimes those harried parents would sit

the rest of our lives. Hello, Karma!

Touchingly, a lot of parents think

next to me, or in front of me, or

that flying with their toddler won’t

behind me, which was hideous,

be that bad because, well, it’s their

Keep up-to-date

obviously, with the snot and

child. They are wrong. Always. 110

With all the news and events, competitions and more!

seat-kicking and everything, and

per cent wrong. Unless, of course,

sometimes they’d move past me

they have a Freak Toddler with a

and sit someplace else. At which

throwback Good Behaviour Gene -

Subscribe to our blog And see what other playgroup mums have been up to.

50 Offspring | summer 2013

grinned, grateful for the Family Entertainment. The Toddler obliged, ramping up the angst a few hundred notches and sweating profusely. The airport felt like it was 900 degrees. I tried to get his goddamn layers off, while he hurled himself around the baggage cart wailing. Our ridiculous mountain of luggage teetered. Those couples grinned some more, waiting for our cases, knapsack, travel cot, camera bag, hand luggage and random water bottles, books, crackers and tissues to spill all over the floor.

Obviously, I wanted the Toddler’s head to fly off and hit them smack bang in the mouth. That would have been just fine with me. and if they do, they should see a health professional

Regrettably, he refused to oblige.

about that. Flying with a toddler is just a bad idea. I

The Toddler’s screaming head stayed

figured as much when I was an entitled world-flitter

well and truly attached to his flailing,

and now, after ten flights in four weeks, two of them

kicking, furious body. Ah, well. Like

around the 35-hour mark, I know it in my bones.

they say, Karma is a Beyotch. We were

We started out well, I guess. We clipped out lists from those “Happy Long Haul Flights With Toddler”

three flights down, and counting.

Only, ahem, seven more flights to go.

articles, and packed our carry-on bags - about six, but who’s counting? - accordingly. We tried. We had milk and water and crackers and toys and books and a blanky and a sooky and a portable DVD player and DVDs and nappies and wipes and tissues and flannels and toiletries and changes of clothes and fruit and, hilariously, a Kindle for me, loaded with all the books I was going to read.

The Toddler did okay on his first flight, probably because it was a novelty. The second wasn’t too bad, either. By the third, in a terrible portent of things to come, he’d had enough. HAD ENOUGH! Especially when we entered Mexico City’s airport, which was about 500 degrees with no air-conditioning. The Toddler was not down with that. He had San Francisco layers on! He became the flailing, thrashing, screeching manifestation of the Terrible Demonic Twos. He yelled.

He cried. He insisted on crawling up the baggage scanner towards our ten-tonne cases hurtling towards him. Every time I pulled him off, he arched his back and foamed at the mouth, and then flung himself on the floor and howled until his face turned purple. I kept waiting for his head to spin around and fly off and hit the Baggage Scanner Lady in the neck. Luckily for us it didn’t, but I think we were close.

CMWA’s Pregnancy Classes Supporting you to have the birth you want.

For details of all our services and classes and to book go to www.cmwa.net.au

People stared at us and frowned. They whispered and moved away. Couples nudged each other and

Offspring | summer 2013 51

BUSINESS MUM

Business Mum, Rhian Allen, has developed Lose Baby Weight into a popular weight loss program specially designed with post baby mums in mind.

I

t is just over two years since successful mumpreneur, Rhian Allen, left her job as a marketing and sales professional in a corporate environment with the

ambition to pursue her dream of creating a national postpregnancy health and weight loss program for mums. As such Lose Baby Weight was created.

In this short time, the soon-to-be mother of two has developed a highly popular weight loss program for mothers, has 3000 mums each month participating in her weight loss plans, resulting to date in a combined weight loss of more

The business of losing

baby

weight

than 75,000 kilos. The popularity of her program is also reflected by more than 40,000 likers on her Facebook page.

business life around her family, Rhian says

Leaving the stressful long hours and routine lifestyle

that flexibility is one of the key benefits of

behind, Rhian began studying health and nutrition online and researching weight loss for mums post pregnancy.

“There was just nothing available that provided mums

being a working-from-home mum.

“My family always take priority. I may be up until midnight working, and up again in the morning at six,

with a holistic approach to weight loss and nutrition, post

but it means that I have the ability to plan my own day,

baby, and nothing at all which offered mums any support

spend time with my family and choose the hours I work.”

with breast feeding,” she says.

Having a warehouse and office close to home allows

“That’s when I got motivated to do something, when

Rhian to spend 70 per cent of her time working in her

I realised there wasn’t a national health and weight loss

home office and the ability to work away several times a

program or website for mums to go to for support.

week without being too far from her toddler.

In October 2010, Rhian’s concept and business idea came

She is supported by her husband who manages

to life with the launch of her website www.losebabyweight.

manufacturing and warehouse operations, and receives

com.au, and she soon followed with the launch of her

support from her team of writers, personal trainers,

product line ‘The Healthy Mummy’.

social media managers, dieticians, and breast feeding

Rhian admits being a mumpreneur isn’t easy, juggling her

shaping your

child’s future TM

We mix music with dancing & rhymes with singing, come along and join in, it’s the best fun you’ll have all year!

Casual attendees welcome!

mention this ad for a free CD with every enrolment!

with fitness

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52 Offspring | summer 2013

and fun!

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Birth Announcement Cards * Party Invitations Christening Invitations * Party Accessories

BUSINESS MUM

weight loss and progress.

Interacting with her audience on a regular basis by posting motivational stories, exercise videos, healthy recipes, positive weight loss results and photos is part of the reason why her business has gained so much attention. “I share a lot of informative content on Facebook, with six or seven posts a day, but a big part of the popularity has come about simply from word of mouth. Once mums try it and realise it works for them, they share it with their friends.”

Another factor that keeps her

Healthy Mummy Products are not genetically modified

motivated is the feedback she gets from other mothers. “It is rewarding

and can be used in conjunction with the Lose Baby Weight

to receive 50 to 60 emails a day from

program, Rhian says. “The products are all 100 per cent

mums who have improved their

safe for breast feeding and are weight loss accelerant free,

weight or feel better from using my

caffeine free and gluten free.”

products and the plans I have come up

With her second baby due in a couple of weeks, Rhian remains determined to continue helping and supporting as

with,” she says.

many mums as possible. “It’s a fast growing business. We

Rhian says the driving force behind the business development simply

currently have 12 people working on the business with us

comes down to the fact she listens to

and we’ve just recruited more people,” she says. With interest

what mums want. “I take on board all

to take the business overseas, Lose Baby Weight proves to

feedback; for example, the free tracking

be different to other weight loss program on the market, by

tool on the website is important to

simply taking into consideration the type of lifestyles lead by

mums wanting to be able to track their

real mums.

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Leederville Woodvale Kalgoorlie www.pregnancydayspa.com.au

Offspring | summer 2013 53

special feature

e s i w y e n o M

By Zoe Delueil

at home Although the cost of living seems to creep ever higher, it’s possible to stick to a budget without feeling deprived. The key – as with many things – is being organised.

Here are some expert tips and ideas to help you save money.

Water | A hot summer can send water bills soaring, but there are ways to make savings. Water Corporation’s Water Efficiency Manager Ben Jarvis says, “We live in a drying climate, and we encourage everyone to make changes to their behaviour to save water, which will in turn save money.”

• Choose waterwise plants for your garden. The Water Corporation website (watercorporation.com.au) has a detailed list of suitable plants.

• Limit showers to four minutes and teach your children to turn the tap off when brushing their teeth.

• Only run full loads of dishwashers and washing machines.

Carramar

54 Offspring | summer 2013

• Turn appliances off at the wall when not in use.

special feature

to have the air-conditioner on around the clock.

• Open your windows at night to let cool air flood the rooms, and close windows in the hottest part of the day.

• Cook outside if possible.

• Accept that it’s summer, and you’re going to feel hot at times. Synergy CEO Trevor James reminds us: “Remember, if it’s a forty-degree day and you’re wearing a jumper, the air conditioner is up too high. Set it at 24 degrees and keep your energy costs down.”

Education | School fees, uniforms, sports In the kitchen | Research suggests that Australians

and after-school activities can quickly add up.

throw away around four million tonnes of food annually.

According to recent research, parents can expect to

Here’s how to keep your food out of landfill.

pay up to 25 per cent more

• Skip that quick, wallet-draining dash to the supermarket

to educate a child born in

and use what you’ve got instead. Try defrosting your

2012 compared to a student

freezer on a hot day and think up ways of cooking

entering the school system

whatever you find in there.

the same year. You can

• When cooking throw in any veggies that need to be used

reduce the initial impact if

up. Make a habit of emptying your fruit bowl and veg

you’ve been saving regularly,

basket before refilling it.

and many banks offer

• Look for wholesalers that sell to the public, such as

savings accounts specifically

Kakulas Brothers in Northbridge, or visit Canning Vale

for this purpose.

Markets.

The Australian

• Shop with a list, but keep an eye out for bargains too, and

Scholarships Group (asg.

stock up on staples such as tinned tomatoes and baked

com.au) is a not-for-profit

beans (not half priced Lindt chocolate!).

organisation that provides

• Meat is generally the most expensive ingredient on your

information, savings

plate. Reduce portions and cook more veggies instead.

Visit foodwise.com.au for more tips on reducing food waste.

advice and education scholarships for Australian families. ASG CEO John Velegrinis says, “The cost of education is rising and parents should start saving

Sell up | Trawl cupboards

now so that they can select

and bedrooms for

the school of their choice.”

outgrown clothes and toys

Even a small amount set

and hold a garage sale.

aside each month will make a

Lisanne Oliver, author of

difference in years to come.

Sorted, says: “You make your money from items priced at $1 or $2 – old magazines, books, clothes; it all adds up.”

Going out | Perth restaurant prices are notoriously high, but there are other options, such as the city’s many parks, often with outdoor barbecues. Or take the kids

Electricity | If you remember

to the beach for dinner, with a swim

a few simple rules you won’t need

and sunset thrown in. Meet friends at

Offspring | summer 2013 55

special feature

“Parents can expect to pay up to 25 per cent more to educate a child born in 2012 compared to a student entering the school system the same year.”

the park for takeaway coffee and homemade cakes. And

per week jumping from $395 to $450 in just a year, but

look out for cheap nights at movies and restaurants –

that doesn’t mean you have to pay over the odds to

usually midweek.

secure a house.

Don’t forget galleries, museums and libraries for free

“Always have your references and funds ready so you can

entertainment. The Cultural Centre in Northbridge has a

move quickly when you find what you want,” says Brian

wealth of activities and events; along with the art gallery

Greig of REIWA. “It’s also worth contacting agents directly so

and museum, there’s the kids’ area at the State Library.

they can call you when a suitable property comes up.”

And your local library is not only a good source of books –

“Or think about buying,” he says, in more affordable

look out for music, DVDs, current magazines and author

suburbs. “Areas such as Clarkson, Ellenbrook and Baldivis

events too.

are popular with young families now that they have good infrastructure and train lines. House and land packages

Renting or buying a home | Rental properties

have come down, as have interest rates, so it’s not a bad

are scarce at the moment, with the median rental price

time to buy.”

56 Offspring | summer 2013

Debt | Recent interest rate cuts have reduced the pressure on mortgage holders, making this a good time to clear some debt. Lisa Gavranich of Cherry Tree Financial Planning (cherrytreefp. com.au) says, “Reducing your non-tax-deductible debt should always be a priority, starting with the debt with the highest interest rate, such as credit cards.”

Insurance | Ms Gavranich also points out the importance of being properly insured. “Think about income protection insurance if you have a young family to support,” she says. “Insurance cover can be reduced once your children are independent, but not being properly covered may be a false economy if something goes wrong.”

In trouble? | If you find yourself sinking financially, keep in touch with your bank, landlord or other debtors – it’s better to let them know you need more time than to cease communication.

The Citizen’s Advice Bureau can offer you low-cost

Loanwise offers Financial Solutions Whether you’re looking to do some home improvements, start a family, get a new car or have a dream holiday, Loanwise could be the answer.

As a mortgage broker and Director of Loanwise, Paul Dwyer’s experience has shown him that circumstances always change with time. What is important to you today may not have crossed your mind when your original loan was set up.

This is where Paul can assist as his aim is to find selections of lending options that match your needs.

Regardless of whether you’re buying your first property or you’re an experienced investor, Loanwise can provide you with quality information and help to facilitate fulfilment of your short, medium and long term financial goals. They have access to Accounting Legal and Financial Planning Specialists.

Loanwise could secure a loan that’s just right for you.

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Offspring | summer 2013 57

special feature

How to plan for the cost of your child’s education

W

hile children are still very

Be Disciplined

young, parents tend to

Remain focused to achieve your

put off the things that

education savings goals. Small, regular

seem further down the track. ‘I’ll

contributions to a separate account or

worry about that later’ often

program can make a difference in the

arrives before you know it,

long term.

and you may have wished you

Work out what you think you

planned ahead. Families who are

can afford each week, and have that

not prepared for the future might

amount come out of each paycheck

find the costs of education a real shock

into a separate account automatically.

to the family budget.

It’s easy to find excuses to dip

According to an Australian

into savings if you don’t have a

Scholarships Group (ASG) survey,

dedicated account or program, so

parents who put their child through

limit your access to the funds to

the Government system can expect

avoid temptation.

to pay up to $65,829 for 12 years

Know Your Tax Advantages

of schooling. The private system could set you back up to $428,723

Get the benefits of tax enhanced

per child.

education savings working for you.

So without feeling paralysed by the

Speak to your accountant to find out

future cost of your child’s education,

what tax refunds you may be eligible

what can you do to get ahead?

for.

Another option is to set up an

Plan ahead Though we plan for most large

education benefits program which is Investigate the costs involved in

eligible for taxation advantages if funds

expenses in life, such as a holiday

sending your child to your preferred

are used for education. These programs

or a new car, twelve years of your

education system, so you have an idea

are designed specifically for education,

child’s schooling is a huge financial

of what you may be up against. You

so they fulfill the requirements of

commitment, which should also be

can work out an estimate using the

a scholarship plan under the Tax

close to the top of your list.

Australian Scholarships Group (ASG)’s

Assessment (Tax Act). This allows

Education Cost Calculator: www.asg.

the fund to receive concessional tax

com.au/calculator.

treatments, which in turn optimises

The sooner you put aside money for your child’s education, the greater the

the child’s scholarship benefits.

benefits you will receive. The later you

Remember that some savings are

start, the more you will have to find periodically and the greater the effect on your family’s budget.

Determine your goal According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the costs of education have risen at more than double the rate of inflation over the past 20 years.

58 Offspring | summer 2013

“According to the ABS, the costs of education have risen at more than double the rate of inflation over the past 20 years.”

better than no savings at all. It’s never too early to start budgeting for your child’s future education costs. Though these costs may seem daunting now, a simple, disciplined approach will allow you to have funds available for your child’s education when you need them most.

DAD’S WORLD

with Gary Ausbruch

Follow the leader

I

recently participated in a leadership assessment process

into the eyes of their disciples to get them to perform.

at work. This involved a self-assessment of how I

Sometimes it’s just the threat of me “telling mummy” that

perceive myself as a leader, and obtaining 360 degree

can prove effective.

feedback from my boss, peers and staff on my leadership

But effective leadership requires a balance of

style. It certainly got me doing some self analysis, and in

competencies, not just Hard Taskmaster. And this was

particular thinking about how the results applied to my

demonstrated to me in my leadership assessment where

other role in life – parenthood – and how I would go if a

some of the competencies around Relating, Caring and

similar assessment was performed on how I’m going.

Authenticity indicated I had room for improvement.

What makes an effective leader is a difficult concept to

Take the situation where one of the kids is crying for

put your finger on exactly, but one thing that most team

what appears to me to be over nothing. My initial reaction

members would say is that it should be very clear who the

is to tell them to stop crying for no reason; which generally

leader or leadership team is. The leader in our house is

makes it worse. Learning to take a minute to assess the

certainly clear, but the leadership team beyond her can be

situation, and decide whether they need emotional support

a bit murky. Obviously I see myself as the deputy, ready to

rather than an Earful, has been a hard one to master. Flying

step up in her absence, but try telling that to two toddlers.

off the cuff is a child-like response, while our adult brains

Consider the situation when Ella is trying to get Sebastian to

should be sufficiently developed enough to assist our

do something he doesn’t want to do.

children with identifying what the problem is and how it’s

“You’re not the boss,” I tell her firmly. “I know,” she says, “I’m only the second boss after Mummy”. This type of

making them feel, which then turns off the tears anyway.

The inspirational aspect of leadership though, is one

exchange gives me valuable feedback on how my attempted

where I feel I may be marked quite well on. It’s important

leadership is perceived.

that a leader sets a good example to their team and

This is further exemplified by a situation that may arise

empowers them to have the confidence to deliver results.

where I’ve been struggling with getting the kids to start or

I believe Sebastian’s ultra-smooth transition to being toilet

stop something. Tempers are fraying (me), tears are rolling

trained is solely down to the example I’ve set him by my

(them, with mine being held back), Timeout has been used

own actions: proudly announce your intentions to the rest

to no effect and it’s all going completely pear-shaped. Until,

of the house, grab some reading material, enjoy the process,

that is, The Omnipotent One walks into the room. All she

and then hold a feedback session afterwards on how it went.

has to do is imperceptibly raise an eyebrow ever so slightly,

So I have a feeling that my parental leadership is okay,

and they jump to attention. If she isn’t around, the situation

with some areas for improvement. But to add some factual

is likely to end up with me getting angry, and then being told

credence to this, I’ll be issuing my wife and kids with 360

by a two year old to go straight to Timeout for swearing.

degree feedback survey forms tonight. Armed with this

This respect doesn’t just happen, it’s earned. An effective leader will use their positional power to put some fear

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Offspring | summer 2013 59

Many parents will tell you that iPads, smartphones and the personal computer are no longer adult devices (just ask your three your old to teach you how to use them), but how do we ensure that our children use appropriate apps?

Appsforkids

By Brooke Evans-Butler

I

t is important to know what your child is accessing

appropriate content, clear instructions and gives

online so we look at some software applications

encouraging feedback to the children when they create

(apps) and websites that are kid-friendly and will

something.

keep your child amused over the holiday season.

n http://www.abc.net.au/abcforkids/sites/playschool/ about/apps/

iPad apps

Kid-friendly iPad applications can be a wonderful resource – many are educational and

Little Digits by Cowly Owl

of course fun!

This app detects the number of fingers a child places on

The Play School Art Maker

the iPad screen to teach children how to count with their fingers. It also teaches simple sums.

This fun iPad app allows your child to create pictures,

n Suitable for: 3 to 7 year olds.

do puzzles and animate movies with their favourite Play

n Benefits: This is an educational app that makes numbers

School friends.

fun! The graphics are colourful and fun (the numbers look

n Suitable for: 2 to 6 year olds.

like friendly animals/monsters which the kids will love).

n Benefits: This free app encourages creativity, age

n http://www.cowlyowl.com/little-digits

Monkey Preschool The Monkey Preschool app range includes ‘Monkey Math School Sunshine’, which teaches children about patterns, counting, adding and subtracting; ‘Monkey Preschool Lunchbox’, which features games to teach colours, shapes, letters and differences; and ‘Monkey Preschool When I Grow Up’,

60 Offspring | summer 2013

which gets children to dress up monkeys depending on

option of buying subscriptions or additional content from

their profession.

within an application), links to external web pages, ads or

n Suitable for: 2 to 6 year olds.

integration with social network sites so you can ensure

n Benefits: These games are fun, colourful and hold the

your child is only accessing the app.

attention of young children – they are games that are Check out www.bestkidsapps.com for reviews

educational without being boring, which is what makes

Tip

them so popular. n www.monkeypreschool.com

and information on numerous age-appropriate apps for kids.

Laugh & Learn Apps by Fisher-Price There are a number of Laugh & Learn apps, including ‘Where’s Puppy’s Nose?’, ‘Animal Sounds’, ‘Let’s Count

Useful accessories

Animals’ and ‘Shapes and Colors Music Show’. The apps

If your little one is playing with the iPad or your smart

teach animal names and sounds, body parts, counting,

phone, the Fisher Price Laugh & Learn™ Appivity™

colours and shapes to baby.

Case for iPad® devices and the Laugh

n Suitable for: 6 months and up.

& Learn Appivity Case for iPhone

n Benefits: These free apps feature bright colours and

and iPod devices will

music and encourage interaction. They are simple to use,

protect the devices

making them perfect for young children to enjoy.

from drool and

n http://www.fisher-price.com/en_US/Products/babytoys/

sticky fingers

apps/index.html

and prevent your

Things to know about apps: Many apps are free or can be purchased for very little

child pressing buttons they shouldn’t.

outlay. Some kid-friendly apps will specify that they do not contain ‘in app purchases’ (where you have the

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Jo Jingles Perth Offspring | summer 2013 61

web sites

Of course, if you have a personal computer, there are many websites that are great for kids too!

Online safety The internet is full of many great resources for children

Sesame Street

but be aware that it is also easy for them to access

Children who like Sesame Street will love this website!

content that is not appropriate:

There are many games, all focusing on a learning

n It is important to always ensure children are closely

experience – such as ‘Read a Face’ (teaching about

monitored while online.

emotions) with Big Bird. There is even a game allowing

n Keep the computer in an open area of the home

your child to make their own

where it is very visible, such as in the kitchen or

monster!

family living area.

n Benefits: Parents can

n Ensure your computer’s anti-virus software is

customise their child’s

up-to-date.

experience on this website

n Talk to your child about cyber-bullying and

by selecting their child’s age

online safety.

range and topic of interest

n Go to www.cybersmart.gov.au for some great tips

(feelings, daily routine or

and advice on online safety.

letters and words, to name a few). n www.sesamestreet.org

Game Classroom This website is packed full of games, tips and resources to

depending on your child’s grade so they are challenged to the appropriate level. n http://www.gameclassroom.com/

help children with maths and language.

ABC4Kids

n Benefits: Anything that encourages children to do their

This is a wonderful website where children can watch their

homework has to be a good thing! You can choose games

favourite ABC TV shows. The website also includes games

Valid until 28th February 2013 *conditions apply

62 Offspring | summer 2013

and a ‘Make & Do’ section, which provides kid-friendly recipes and arts and crafts to

Tis the season

keep your children busy.

Get your children excited about Christmas!

n Benefits: This site features

A special message from the man in red. Go to the

so many kid-friendly shows,

Portable North Pole website and simply by answering a

ideas and activities.

few questions you can organise for your child to receive

n http://www.abc.net.au/

a personalised video message from Santa.

abcforkids/

n http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/home

Yahoo Kids

Where is Santa now?

Yahoo Kids is a child-appropriate version of Yahoo,

Find out where Santa is in the world with this

featuring games, video clips and jokes for children.

wonderful website that will track Santa’s sleigh.

n Benefits: This is a child-friendly site with lots to do.

n http://www.noradsanta.org/

For parents, there is a useful section on internet safety, including tips to prevent cyber bullying and information on parental controls online. n http://kids.yahoo.com/ Something to watch out for: Monitor your internet download usage. When my then two-year-old started using the iPad, he was obsessed with a website that enabled him to watch his favourite cartoons. What I didn’t realise was each time he clicked on a video it would download the entire show, whether he watched it all or not…he very quickly had maxed out our internet download allowance!

Toys, Games, Books, Puzzles, to inspire creative and logical thinking!

301 Selby St (Cnr Pearson Way), Osborne Park.

Phone 9448 9663 Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-3pm

15% *OFF STOREWIDE

Shop early for Christmas and SAVE MONEY with our voucher!

*Conditions apply, No further discounts. Valid until 28th Feb 2013

Offspring | summer 2013 63

REAL LIFE

um erth mapp Pcreates

By Jessica Cummings

for kids

Perth mum of two, Mhairi Flay, tells Offspring how she developed a nursery rhyme iPad app for children.

Photo: Hilary Adamson Photography

M

hairi Flay hasn’t let being a stay-at-home mum hold her back from staying technologically savvy and ambitious. In fact it’s been an opportunity

for her to put her creativity and business acumen to use, and develop a new, exciting app for children. It was at home, while caring for her two boys, Caleb aged three and Kai aged

Her nursery rhyme book, Moo Baa Quack, gained popularity

one, that the Palmyra mother created a storybook Moo Baa

quickly, and soon enough Mhairi found herself printing off

Quack, initially in traditional print form, which she then

copy after copy for Caleb and his friends. It then occurred

transformed into a digital application to be read via an iPad.

to her how much easier it would be if it was something that

It has resulted in her product being utilised internationally.

could be read digitally by many.

Mhairi first wrote Moo Baa Quack as a colourful, simple book which she printed off her computer to read to her eldest child, Caleb, now three, when he was a baby. It

And so began her development of her book into an iPad application.

With a background as a marketing specialist for Channel

features different animals and the sounds they make, as she

9, media agencies and shopping centres, Mhairi was able

became frustrated by an apparent void of suitable, simple

to identify a niche opportunity; and she has the drive and

stories for children in this area.

creativity to develop a good idea into a professional product

“I found that when I was reading a variety of books to

that people would want to buy.

my son when he was first born they were limited in various

“I contacted Alliancetek, an American company who

ways,” she explains. “I got tired of reading some books with

specialise in App development, and worked with them and

cartoon pictures of animals and saying ‘That doesn’t really

their production staff in India via Skype to compile it all,”

look like a cow, but it’s meant to be a cow, and cows aren’t

she says. “The development of the app took three weeks and

purple either!’ and there were many stories and nursery

then another week at the end to go through the Apple App

rhymes that didn’t even make sense.”

Store approval process.”

64 Offspring | summer 2013

REAL LIFE can hear the parent’s voice reading it if

As interest in her app grew at a fast pace locally, the online community was just as intrigued by what Mhairi had created. “Within the first three weeks I sold over 200 apps, with sales still coming in each day. What I found exciting was that it was purchased from people in 23 different countries, so it wasn’t just people I knew in Australia, it is strangers in Chile, Norway, Japan, United Arab Emirates, UK, USA,

“It is important for us as parents to keep up with technology, especially in this fast-paced digital world.”

they’re not there).

Mhairi believes that modern technology provides a great platform for mums in terms of research and entertainment.

“I think the stereotype of mums watching daytime TV has been superseded by communication and entertainment via technology through mobile phones, iPads and computers,”

Singapore, India and other foreign

she says. “The Wiggles song Hot Potato

countries that have purchased it.”

alone has over 24 million YouTube

As well as offering children the opportunity to enjoy a virtual learning experience, Moo Baa Quack teaches kids about various animals and the different sounds they make.

The app includes special features such as auto play

views, which goes to show how parents are using the internet to access select entertainment for their children.

“It is important for us as parents to keep up with technology, especially in this fast-paced digital world, in

(meaning that the book is read to your child enabling you to

order to avoid the risk of not being able to understand what

do what you want while your child listens), reality reference

our children are doing when they are older.”

(providing your child with a real life photo and cartoon

And the good news for other mums and dads who’d like

version so that they can associate between the two) and

to share Moo Baa Quack with their children? The iPad app is

personal narration (allows parents to record themselves

downloadable from the Apple iPad App store and only costs

and up to six other people reading the book so their child

99 cents!

Enrol now

for TErm 1 - 2013 Classes for Children aged from 3½

Book into a free trial lesson before term starts!

Meet our teachers and experience the benefits for your child to learn in a Yamaha group class.

Holiday trial lessons available in January.

yamahamusicschool.com.au 1300 139 506

Offspring | summer 2013 65

special feature

Scho o l’s o ut for

r e m Sum

By Zoe Deleuil

FREE

W

arm summer days and nights mean the city’s public spaces come alive

with concerts, festivals and markets. Here is a round-up of some of the best, all free.

Perth City Festival of Christmas This festive season come and enjoy the wonder of the Perth City Festival of Christmas. The festival starts on the 16th of November and goes for over six weeks with events and activities for all ages. perthfestival.com.au

Channel Seven and the West Australian Christmas Pageant There will be new floats, Christmas lights and a free mini carnival in Forrest Place from 3pm – 7pm on Saturday 15 December.

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66 Offspring | summer 2013

From $50

Short of ideas to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays?

Whether you’re after a peaceful, timeconsuming activity for a sweltering afternoon at home or want to discover something new in Perth, we’ve got you covered.

special feature

IGA Carols by Candlelight BYO picnic and rug, take part in the children’s activities and sing along to your favourite Christmas carols on Sunday 23 December at 6.30pm in the Supreme Court Gardens.

Christmas Nativity The traditional story of Christmas will be brought to life in Forrest Place on 19 – 21 of December at 7.30pm with hundreds of performers, live animals and Christmas carols.

Festival of Perth Be swept up in a high-octane performance of percussion, drumming and explosives at the Lotterywest Festival opening BPM (Bombs Per Minute) at Langley Park (9 February, 8pm). There will also be messy, colourful fun in Tangle, a large outdoor elastic-weaving event at the Perth Cultural Centre that will see children and adults unspooling balls of brightly coloured elastic around poles in a giant playground experiment (21 - 24, 10am-noon, 3-5pm). Visit perthfestival.com.au for many more events.

Summer Workshop Specials Building Brains (parents of newborns to 6 years)

Discusses the importance of early influences on your child’s brain development.

Sleep & Your Growing Baby

(parents of babies 3–7 months) Explores feeding and sleeping patterns for this age group.

Successful Toileting

(parents of children 3.5+ years) Overcome obstacle that hinder progress to achieve toileting in the older child.

Positive experiences build brain connections

Book at: www.ngala.com.au/course/parenting-workshops

Offspring | summer 2013 67

special feature

Open Air Movie Nights Free Flicks for Kids runs again at the Northbridge Piazza, every Saturday night at 6.30pm until December 29. Bring a blanket or get there early to snag a beanbag. Visit showmeperth.com.au for details. Or for a real step back in time, visit the Galaxy drive-in cinema in Kingsley – only $15 per car on Tuesday nights (galaxydrivein.com.au).

Choose from barbecued Argentinean beef ribs and chorizo

Music in Hillarys

rolls, paella, satay, dim sum or sushi, and much more.

Don’t miss Jeff Lang with special guest Lucky Oceans and Felicity Groom on 12 January 2013 in shady Mawson Park,

Fremantle Markets

Hillarys. The concert starts at 7pm – bring a picnic and get

The Fremantle Markets are putting on a wide range of

comfortable (www.joondalup.wa.gov.au).

attractions for younger visitors this summer. Every Friday a Wildlife Zoo gives kids an opportunity to meet West

Courtyard Music at Fremantle Arts Centre

Australian wildlife (2-4pm); on Saturdays there’s a cuddly

Every Sunday from 2-4pm until March 2013, the Fremantle

animal farm with ducklings, piglets, lambs and much

Arts Centre will host afternoon concerts for the family,

more (9-11am), while on Sundays Errol the Emu makes

featuring local and national musicians. Visit fac.org.au for

an appearance from 1-2pm. Special Christmas events

the line-up.

include visits from the vibrant Christmas Elf (2-3pm 1 & 15 December); the stilt-walking Angel of Light (6-7pm

Twilight Markets

Friday 7 & 14 December), and Santa Claus himself on

Head into the city on a Friday night for an al fresco dinner

Christmas Eve, with gifts for the kids (11am-2pm). www.

at the Twilight Markets, held in Forrest Place from 5-9pm.

fremantlemarkets.com.au

Healthy, Active, Confident Kids Birthday Parties & Group Events School Term & Family Programs

www.funkymonkeysports.com.au 0448 093 027 admin@funkymonkeysports.com.au

Teach your child to learn to swim in their own home!

F loaties Home Swim School comes to you !

• Bookings available daily 9am-8pm daily from Dec to March • One off or regular lessons • Small groups (up to 3)

To discuss home lessons or make a booking please email floatiesswimschool@iinet.net.au Phone or text 0466 913970 68 Offspring | summer 2013

special feature

Yokine Park

Outdoors

A new inclusive playground at Yokine Reserve, designed by landscape architect Fiona Robbe,

is a world away from the standard slide-andswing combo. The playground has been built around (and sometimes up) existing trees, and planted with natives. Huge swings, musical instruments and spinning climbing frames will keep kids happily absorbed for a morning; there are also barbecues for balmy evenings.

Water sports at Hyde Park

giant snakes and water umbrellas. Take the kids along

Cool off under a spray of water fountains at leafy green

for a morning play and have a picnic outside on the grass

Hyde Park. The newly renovated water playground is

afterwards (beattypark.com.au).

located on the north-west corner of the park, just off Vincent Street. Nearby are more traditional playgrounds,

The Maze

and free barbecues, or bring bikes and scooters and go for

Kids who love a puzzle will enjoy the Maze family fun

a shady ride around the lakes.

park in Bullsbrook. Built in the 1970s, it has been revived in the past few years by its new owners, who have added

Swimming

new games, mazes and playgrounds. Bring a picnic or take

Beatty Park leisure centre has now reopened with a new

advantage of the free barbecues, or have lunch at Café

children’s indoor swimming pool featuring frog slides,

Iguana (themaze.com.au).

Don’t forget to join our Kidz Club to be the first to know about upcoming specials!

The Hot summer Pass is back on sale from 1st Dec 2012 - 31st Jan 2013 - Valid 1st Feb to 30 March 2013 - $35, Unlimited entry.

Playgroup/Mothers group special min 6 kids, min 4 consecutive weeks for $4 entry per child. Book 8 weeks and get the last week FREE! (not valid school holidays)

Family Fun Nights!

First for 2013 is on 22nd Feb and will be our first annual Fairyland Party (Pirates welcome) Check out our website or facebook for more information

Awesome Parties!

Group discounts available during the week

KIDZ PARADISE 2 FOR 1 ENTRY INDOOR CHILDREN’S PLAY CENTRE AND CAFE!

THE LESSER ENTRY VALUE WILL BE FREE. LIMITED TO ONE VOUCHER PER FAMILY. MUST PRESENT VOUCHER ON ENTRY. VALID UNTIL 28TH FEBRUARY 2013.

179 PLANET ST, CARLISLE Phone 9472 8655 www.kidzparadise.com.au

Book NOW for your end of year function!

Catering packages, games hosts and Santa available.

It is forecast to be a very hot summer so come down and enjoy a coffee in air conditioned comfort while the kids have a blast and no chance of sunburn :) Kidz Paradise now has a puppet theatre in the toddler area as well as ball targets and in the big kids area there is now a mini glow zone.

Kidz Paradise will be CLOSED from the 25th Dec and reopen on the 2nd Jan 2013 We wish you a Very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year

Offspring | summer 2013 69

special feature

Meet the farmers Perth’s farmers’ markets have really come into their own over the last few years. One of the best for a day out with kids is Perth City Farm on a Saturday morning. Explore the gardens, play in the mosaic sandpit, sample the fresh produce or have a snack in the beautiful open-air café; this place is a treat for both adults and children. Also look out for their school holiday programme, which offers classes in everything from garden art

Museums and Education

to soap making (perthcityfarm.org.au).

The Naturaliste Marine Discovery Centre The discovery centre (open Monday to

Fridays only from 10-4) is an inexpensive alternative to

At home

n Prepare for a camping trip away with a night in the back garden. Dust off the camping gear and try to engage your kids in the art of setting up a tent. Gaze at the

AQWA, also located at Hilarys Boat Harbour, and with the

stars, toast marshmallows (even if only on candles) and

same emphasis on discovering the wonders of the West

read by torchlight. Leave the back door open, though, in

Australian oceans. A highlight is the Rockpool, where

case a warm bed beckons in the small hours.

kids can get up close to starfish, sea cucumbers and even a small shark; there are also plenty of aquariums and a

fr

ee

M eM Be rS hi P

great café (nmdc.com.au).

R

Jungle Sports

The FIRST CHOICE junior sports program for 18mth-7yr olds CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR TERM DETAILS

n Have a tea party in the garden with little cups, a tablecloth, and homemade scones or cake. n Make your own Christmas cards to give to family and friends: use photos, magazine pictures, scraps of fabric or wool, paints and crayons to make original pictures. n Get out old clothes, jewellery, makeup, fabric scraps and hats and have a fashion parade, complete with photos or videos. Charity shops are a great place to stock up on dress-ups. n Make a summer holiday scrapbook. If you’ve got a

www.junglesports.com.au T: 9499 1800 E: info@junglesports.com.au

Follow us

Canning Vale • guildford • JoondaluP • KingSway • Mandurah • MelVille • MounT lawley • roCKinghaM • SuBiaCo • SuCCeSS

camera full of photos and a long afternoon, then get the best images printed at your nearest camera shop, grab some glue, scissors, textas and a blank notebook, and get to work creating something to remember the summer. Your scrapbook could also include drawings, tickets, dried leaves and other souvenirs.

70 Offspring | summer 2013

special feature

Summer fun at Tumblers Open every day of the school holidays, Tumblers Kids Gym, located within the Riverton Leisureplex, is the ideal venue to bring your kids this summer.

Children can explore the four-level structure within a secured, safe environment. Children over the age of five can play in Tumblers while parents or guardians enjoy other areas within the facility, but children under five must be supervised.

The fully air conditioned, secure, venue is a great place for children to play and exercise.

Session Times: Monday - Thursday 9am to 2pm, Fridays 9am to 2pm and 4pm to 6pm.

Weekends Tumblers is open 10am to 3pm, Public Holidays 10am to 3pm and School Holidays 9am to 5pm Tumblers Kids Gym parties offer you the no-fuss solution for your child’s birthday party with four levels of fun, adventure and excitement for children aged 2 to 10.

Let Tumblers do the work while you enjoy a coffee in our café.

Contact the centre on 9231 0900 for more information or to make a booking.

Holiday fun at Freo markets Throughout each school holiday, Fremantle Markets will have a jam-packed program of free and affordable activities to delight visitors of all ages. From cuddly animal farms, pottery classes, wildlife zoos and fairies to talented performers… there really is something for everyone!

For a fun start to your Christmas festivities, join them for performances by the Xmas Elf, Angel of Light, Toy Soldiers and more.

Don’t miss your chance to catch up with Santa as he makes his jolly appearance on Monday 24th December from 11am till 2pm.

Fremantle Markets is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For a full list of times and extra opening hours over the Christmas period, please visit www.fremantlemarkets.com.au

inal & Still the Best! g i r O

fremantle m rkets Open Everyday of the Holidays!!!

Play Sessions Tumblers Kids gym is open for play sessions 7 days a week.

Children can explore the four leveled structure within a secured safe environment.

Tumblers is a great place for children to play and exercise.

Holiday Special

Kids Gym Entry Small Popcorn or Small Jelly Cup & Small Soft Drink $9.50 per child Session Times: Monday-Thursday 9am-2pm Friday 9am-2pm, 4pm-6pm Weekends 10am-3pm Public Holidays 10am-3pm School Holidays 9am-5pm Cost per Child: Under 12mths Free 1 to 4 Years $5.60 5 to 12 years $6.60

December all wrapped up Free Pottery 9am – 11am Thursday 20th & Friday 21st Try something new this school holidays and let potter Judy Nastov show your little one how to make an ornament out of clay.

Baby Animal Farm 9 – 11am every Saturday

Come in and pat a selection of the cutest baby animals.

Market Fairies

10am – 1pm every Saturday & 11am – 2pm every Sunday Free face painting, performances and random acts of kindness

Wildlife Petting Zoo 2pm – 4pm every Friday

Up close and personal hands on experience with a Koala & Snakes and more...

The Yard: 8 am-8 pm Fri ~ 8 am-6 pm Sat & Sun The Hall: 9 am-8 pm Fri ~ 9 am-6 pm Sat & Sun

www.fremantlemarkets.com.au Offspring | summer 2013 71

special feature

Woolstores – the heart of shopping in Fremantle!

This summer Woolstores is putting the fun into shopping, with heaps of FREE entertainment including Santa, Christmas Fairies, face painting and giveaways.

Woolstores Shopping Centre Manager, Scott Ferguson explains, “being the main everyday shopping hub in Fremantle, we’ve arranged for Santa to visit Woolstores daily so it’s easy for parents to bring kids in to see Santa.

Plus, every child who visits Santa will receive a FREE Christmas colouring activity book.”

“We also have beautiful Christmas Fairies who will be spreading the Christmas cheer and granting goodwill wishes.”

Then, commencing in January the centre will host a monthly FREE kids face painting morning, on the first Wednesday of each month. Scott adds “bring the kids down for our first face painting morning on Wed 2 Jan between 10am to 1pm – we’ll also have some special giveaways on that day.”

Santa will be visiting Woolstores SC from Saturday 15th December, 12 – 3pm daily until Christmas eve.

Parents are welcome to take their own photos of children with Santa. In addition, Woolstores will be offering gift wrapping services together with Fremantle and East Fremantle Lions Clubs. For a gold coin donation Fremantle shoppers can get gifts wrapped in beautiful Christmas papers and support a local community charity.

Woolstores Shopping Centre Manager, Scott Ferguson adds “although we’re not a large shopping centre, we have everything that our customers might need day-to-day; kids especially love visiting Jacksons and Wendy’s stores!”

Located in the Fremantle CBD, the centre caters to shoppers with a large Coles supermarket and a range of food, health and lifestyle stores, plus ATMs and services and is open seven days.

Woolstores also offers two hours free parking when you spend $10 or more at any store, and additional parking is available for only $1 per hour (maximum of 5 hours).

For more centre information visit www.woolstores. com.au or www.facebook.com/woolstores

Free Fun at Woolstores this summer!

FACE PAINTING FUN! WED 2 JAN 10AM – 1PM

FREE face painting on first Wednesday each month

FREE PARKING* WHEN YOU SPEND $10 OR MORE

*2 hours free parking, includes undercover parking

PLUS OVER 20 SPECIALTY STORES Cnr Cantonment & Queen St Fremantle T: 9335 4173 OPEN 7 DAYS www.woolstores.com.au wwwfacebook.com/Woolstores

72 Offspring | summer 2013

SANTA VISITS SAT 15 – MON 24 DEC 12 NOON – 3PM DAILY

Bring your camera along to take a photo of your little one with Santa!

Plus, FREE Christmas Activity Book for each child who visits Santa

PARENTING

Parents matter

By David Zarb, CEO Playgroup WA

children from a very early

Studies reveal parents spending quality time with children is critical in child development and school outcomes.

age is positively linked to future literacy and attachment. Just talking to your children is a critical part of developing their vocabulary. Long before they can talk children are

I

t might be a scary thought for parents

learning words, the more

(including me) but there is a mountain of

words they hear the more

evidence indicating what parents do is the

they learn.

Now you might think

single biggest determinant of healthy child development and wellbeing. In a recent speech,

that is all very obvious and

Dr Lance Emerson, Chief Executive Officer of

I must be talking about

the Australian Youth Alliance for Children and

disadvantaged families. The

Youth (ARACY), suggested parenting was such a

facts are that whilst there is

significant public health issue that it was the “modern day

less reading and conversation in disadvantaged families, in

equivalent to safe drinking water.”

our most advantaged families 15-20 per cent of children are

The good news is evidence shows parents can make a big difference through simple things. Firstly, reading to

not read to regularly.

Other evidence shows that simply having shared family mealtimes is linked to better school outcomes, better social skills and having more school motivation in young people.

Even better news was found in a long term study in the United Kingdom. The Effective Provision of Preschool Education (EPPE) study has been tracking large numbers

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of children since 1997. The research explored the sorts of environments that families provided by looking at things such as reading, songs, nursery rhymes, painting, drawing, teaching numbers, going to libraries and making play opportunities with other children. The results were clear.

The amount of these activities present in the child’s home environment was the most significant factor in longer term outcomes for children. Whilst high quality early childhood care and education and high quality school helped children catch up, what happened at home was the biggest predictor of long term school performance.

The really big finding was that these types of family behaviours could significantly make a difference even if children were economically disadvantaged. As the EPPE said ‘what parents do is more important than who they are”.

The flipside was more sobering. No matter how wealthy the family background, children would still struggle if they did not get the basic positive home environment. The simple fact was that the sorts of positive things that parents did were not dependent on money or a parent’s level of education. They were about attitude and spending time with children.

Offspring | summer 2013 73

PARENTING

Self regulation is key Self-regulation is the latest buzz word; it is frequently mentioned in newspapers and across a range of media but what does it really mean? And how do parents foster self-regulation in their children?

Kim Johnson and Rosemary Redden, of the Ngala Education team, explain.

C

ontrary to common belief,

impulse control and wilful emotions

parents showing control of their own

self-regulation is more than

will become more practiced, resulting

behaviour (first inkling of patience!).

just self-control. It is self-

in thinking before acting. Learning

The four main parenting styles are:

directional and encompasses the

impulse control is critical to brain

• Indulgent or permissive - less

ways we interact appropriately with

development at this time; learning

demanding and more responsive,

others, how we use initiative and how

this later delays mastery of self-

lenient and not requiring mature

we develop self-motivation to learn.

regulation.

behaviour. Creating a family dynamic

CHILD DEVELOPMENT

capable of expressing their feelings,

self-regulation and to avoid conflict.

Babies develop self-regulation

acting deliberately, planning and

• Authoritarian - less responsive

through close relations with parents

controlling aggression both physically

and more demanding, expecting

and receiving sensory-stimulating

and relationally.

By the age of six, children are

to help children explore their own

opportunities.

Toddlers view parents as a source of help, using strategies to get adults to respond and assist them to orientate themselves in new or challenging situations.

Toddlers begin to put words to their emotions, to learn the concept of emotions and to interact with others. Parents can help their child interpret the actions and emotions of others by putting words to actions and feelings. Children form their own thinking from their experiences with others. For example, rough and tumble play can help them learn when to stop when someone has

tative “the authori le is parenting sty ost one of the m redictors consistent p tory of self-regula ” competence

had enough.

Children learn by absorbing information about

compliance without question,

PARENTING IMPACTS The experiences children have

through interacting with their parents plays a central

providing structured environments and establishing clear rules.

• Authoritative - demanding and responsive, assertive but not restrictive or intrusive. Providing a supportive environment for learning,

their surroundings before age three

role in developing brain systems

alongside clear expectations and

and by their third or fourth year they

toward self-regulatory behaviours.

allocations of responsibility.

begin to ask why. They begin to learn

Parenting styles that are warm

• Neglectful or uninvolved parents

cause and effect in social situations

and responsive allow children to

are low in both demands and

and in patterns of behaviour. A child’s

focus their attention and tune in to

responsiveness, in extreme cases

74 Offspring | summer 2013

regulatory competence

essential needs of children.

from early childhood

Parenting styles have three

through adolescence

primary dimensions:

into adulthood. This

[1] Behavioural control

form of parenting

– developing strategies

effectively helps a

that openly monitor

child acquire the self-

behavioural expectations,

confidence and esteem

establishing rules and

necessary to face life’s

limits that provide

challenges.

boundaries for managing

The five important

behaviour.

elements across parenting

[2] Warmth – creating a

styles that are conducive

supportive environment

to developing resilience

PARENTING

rejecting and neglecting the

and self-regulation are:

for self-expression,

[1] Availability – the

The main difference between

encouraging a child to participate in individual, group and community

the authoritarian and authoritative

foundation for children to learn to

activities, and to form close

parenting styles is the dimension

form trust in relationships starts

attachment relationships.

of psychological control, with

with parents responding to their

[3] Psychological control – being

authoritarian parents expecting

baby’s needs, as well as providing the

intrusive and overprotective,

children to accept judgments without

security for their child to outgrow

creating a sense of dependency in a

question, and authoritative parents

the dependency of infancy and

child by implementing constraints,

being more open to give and take.

confidently explore the wider world and its many challenges.

According to researchers, the

interrupting or ignoring the child, and manipulating a child both

authoritative parenting style is one of

[2] Sensitivity – being aware as a

emotionally and psychologically.

the most consistent predictors of self-

parent of their child’s individual and

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• •

• • •

2011/08/12 12:31 PM

www.piccolo-innovations.com Offspring | summer 2013 75

PARENTING

an important, self-regulatory skill.

unique perspective and encouraging

raised affects the self-regulation

their child to form his or her own

processes the child develops.

feelings and opinions, even if they are

Resilience is the ability to bounce

alternative disciplinary tool, however

different to their own.

back from adversity; family and

time in with the child or staying in

[3] Acceptance – being child-centred

community environments that are

the vicinity of an upset child calms

and valuing the experiences and

resilient have more self-regulatory

them faster than isolation.

knowledge unique to their child.

systems in place from which

[4] Co-operation – creating

individuals can learn. Family conflict

CONCLUSION

opportunities for children to

is inevitable and some dynamics

Being able to self-regulate lays the

contribute and be effective as

are higher in emotion due to the

foundation for many complex tasks

children learn to make an impact on

temperaments of the individuals in

and ways of thinking. Regardless

their environment. It is possible for

the family. Studies have found that it

of gifted ability or disability,

parents to be on the child’s ‘team’ to

is not the heat of the family conflict,

circumstance and cultural differences,

work together solving problems and

but how it is resolved, that impacts a

the best predictor of positive child

promoting the various competencies

child’s ability to regulate in conflict.

behaviour is parental confidence in

Timeout is often given as an

Discipline of children affects

their own knowledge, acceptance

confidence to take on challenges and

the self-regulatory development of

of their child and having a warm

measure risks.

children. While 90 per cent of parents

relationship with them.

[5] Family membership – promote

have used smacking at least once,

feelings of belonging and being

studies find that any kind of physical

confidence’ aims to assist you to

significant to others.

discipline negatively effects self-

parent your children positively and

regulation.

confidently. Ngala Helpline 9368

the child has. Success brings

Ngala’s motto of ‘parenting with

INTERACTIONS - FAMILY ENVIRONMENT OF DISCIPLINE

child’s attention away from the source

The environment of the community

of distress and re-engage the child in

Guiding Children’s Behaviour

and family within which a child is

another activity is the most basic, and

workshop go to www.ngala.com.au

A parent’s ability to redirect a

baby blocks

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76 Offspring | summer 2013

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Surfing

By BETH JOHNSTON

PhotoS: Adam Williams

Baby on one hip, surf board on the other: meet the Perth mums who are combining their passions for surfing and parenting. Beth Johnston hits the sand to find out more.

mums

A

t first glance they look like any other surfers, bobbing up and down on their boards waiting patiently for the next decent wave. But scan your

gaze back to the beach and you’ll soon see the difference, there’s more than a beach towel waiting on the sand for this surfing clan – in fact there’s a brood. Meet Perth’s Surfing Mums - a dedicated group of women who share a passion for surfing and parenting, and see no reason why the two can’t be combined.

It’s not a new phenomenon; the first Surfing Mums group started in Byron Bay with two new mums who were feeling a little lost. They were brought together by their love of surfing and the frustration at having to now sit on the beach with their babies just watching the waves. So they started to meet on a regular basis, taking turns to look

Offspring | summer 2013 77

Cara Williams has been a member

after each other’s children while the

of Surfing Mums Perth for two years

other went surfing.

and is now the national secretary,

Word quickly spread and the idea moved from State to State, and now

but she says the group has given her

there are 15 Surfing Mums groups

far more than just the chance to go

nationally, comprising Surfing Mums

surfing.

As a single mum hailing from the

Australia.

east coast, Cara says meeting others

In 2008 the group became an incorporated association, so members

who shared her passion for surfing

pay either an annual or half-yearly fee

and encouraging a healthy, outdoor

and are fully covered by public liability

lifestyle was an invaluable support

insurance.

for her.

“For me it’s not just a group, I

The mums get together annually in Byron Bay for the group’s annual

consider these women to be my

general meeting, which of course also

friends,” Cara says. “It’s such a great

factors in plenty of time for them to

support network.”

There is no question that Cara is

take advantage of the many amazing

mad about surfing, she’s been a keen

local breaks.

WA has two main groups in Perth and Geraldton, with

surfer since the age of 15 and her daughter Lacey Lane is

Perth’s group comprised of about 20 members who meet

named after a surf break in Queensland. After finding out

each week for surfing and “beach-sitting” duties. Members

about Surfing Mums from her Mothers Group, Cara says

are encouraged to buddy up and look after each other’s

she thought it was too good to be true and quickly joined

children, who range in age from six weeks to 15 years old,

up when Lacey was just six months old. She’s never looked

on a one-on-one basis for a designated time period, before

back.

swapping babies for boards.

“It’s such a welcoming group of people and I think that

We’ve got plenty of fun stuff for kids of all ages.

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78 Offspring | summer 2013

attitude comes from our co-ordinator, Claire Romea Gorton, who is now the national president too,” she

KIDS’ STUFF

says. “We just adore her and she encourages a really friendly and non-judgemental environment. Surfing Mums has given me so much, both mentally and physically and I love that we’re teaching our kids to be active throughout life. We’ve got such a great mix of members and there is a range of ages, some in their late forties, and one who only learnt to surf when she was in her forties but is amazing, and everyone is really passionate about living a healthy, outdoor lifestyle.”

New members are encouraged to join, even if you’re not a skilled surfer or have never surfed before, they

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can arrange a few lessons before you join the regular weekly meets. Although it’s aimed at mums, the group

“Surfing Mums has given me so much, both mentally and physically and I love that we’re teaching our kids to be active throughout life.”

TANKINIS

FIGURE CONTROL

MATERNITY

BRIGHT COLOURS

THERMAL

BABIES

LADIES & MENS

ALL THE FAMILY

SUN PROTECTION

is not limited to women - dads and carers are also encouraged to come along.

If you’re not in Perth or Geraldton but love the idea, Surfing Mums is also happy to support the formation of new groups.

According to Cara, one of the keys to success is the buddy-up system, so new members feel more comfortable about hitting the water knowing that their child will be well cared for in their absence.

“In order to do it right, the mums pair up so it’s not just a mass of women and children, there is more responsibility and it works well,” she says. “I get to go out and enjoy a surf knowing that Lacey is in good hands. The Perth group generally meets at Trigg in summer and Cottesloe in winter, or wherever the waves are best, as co-ordinated by Claire.”

They also take two annual surf trips. One is a, long weekend trip where families are encouraged to come along and the other is the main trip, which this year was an all-mums surfing trip to Java. And Cara maintains that “surfing trip” is not just code for a glorified relaxing holiday with cocktails by the pool.

For more information: Contact Claire Romea Gorton email: perthsurfingmums@gmail.com web: www.surfingmums.com

Offspring | summer 2013 79

FOOD & NUTRITION

Eat your From Additives to Zinc, Accredited Practising Dietitian, founder of www.dietitianonline.com.au and Mum of three, Kate Bullen, provides an ABC of nutrition to keep in mind when feeding your family.

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80 Offspring | summer 2013

A

dditives – may include preservatives that help keep our food safe to eat, or colours and flavours

added to make food tastier and more appealing to eat.

Most people don’t react to food additives, but some people do. If you think your child might be reacting to food additives, please speak to an Accredited Practising Dietitian.

B

reakfast – it really is the most important meal of the day. Research has shown that children who eat

breakfast are more likely to have a healthy diet. Quick and easy breakfasts include a piece of fruit, some toast, a smoothie or a couple of Weetbix with milk.

C

alcium – needed for strong bones, which is most important in growing children. Dairy foods such

as milk, cheese and yoghurt are our best sources of calcium. But, we can also get calcium from other foods including almonds, tahini, salmon and dark green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and bok choy.

D

rinks – the easiest, cheapest and healthiest drink is water, followed by milk. Drinks are important

to stop children getting dehydrated – particularly in our hot summer months. Encourage regular drinks of water throughout the day and get children in the habit of having water as their first choice of drink.

E

ggs – boiled eggs are our family’s easy meal. My children will have boiled eggs at least once a week -

healthy and tasty meal is ready to eat. Children typically

I

ron – if you have a teenager at home, you might want to check if they are getting enough iron as the amount

love eggs and they are a good powerhouse food with plenty

of iron they need increases during the teen years. If they

of protein and other vitamins and minerals.

don’t get enough iron, anaemia can develop. The best

F

ruit – summer fruit is the best! Watermelon, grapes,

sources of iron are red meat, chicken, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds,

mangoes, stonefruit – all so tasty and plentiful. Fruit is

wholegrain breads and cereals.

great for snacks, but also delicious when whizzed up with some milk and yoghurt to make a smoothie, or used in baking muffins. Frozen grapes are an easy fruit to add into the lunchbox – and stay cool till lunch which increases the chances of them being eaten!

G

enetically Modified Food – relatively new in Australia, and really comes down to personal choice. As

yet we don’t know if there are any long term effects from eating genetically modified food.

Most foods will be labelled if they contain genetically modified ingredients.

H

J

unk food – it is almost impossible to completely avoid junk food, but keep it to special occasions. Once a week

is occasional, when junk food is eaten every day then you may need to reassess a child’s diet.

K

ilojoules – the preferred unit of measuring energy in Australia, abbreviated to kj. Kilojoules are what you

will see referred to on food labels. Calories are the alternative measure of energy. One calorie = 4.186 kilojoules.

L

egumes – baked beans, chick peas, lentils and kidney beans are all lentils

unger – does this phrase sound

(sometimes also called ‘pulses’). They are a

familiar, “Mum – I’m hungry”? I

great sources of protein and fibre – try adding

hear this many times a day! Sometimes it’s true hunger, sometimes it’s ‘boredom hunger’. Children typically need to eat every two to three hours as they only have little stomachs – so this can be a clue as to whether they are truly

some legumes into your next mince dish.

Lentils go almost unnoticed by children, so can be a good one to try.

M

eat – choose lean meat with very little visible fat. Red meat

hungry. If you don’t think your child is hungry,

such as beef and lamb is a great source

try re-directing them to another activity until it

of iron and zinc. Eating lean meat a

is time to eat to avoid ‘boredom eating’.

FOOD & NUTRITION

add a bit of salad to the plate, and some toast – and an easy,

couple of times a week is a great way to make sure your kids get plenty of these nutrients.

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FOOD & NUTRITION

N

uts – fantastic sources of protein,

can be easily over-eaten – particularly by

fibre and vitamins. Great snacks for

children.

T

older children, although not appropriate for taking to school due to the risk for any children with nut allergies.

O

often found in processed foods such as biscuits and pastries, fried foods and

research shows that 23 per cent

takeaways.

U

overweight or obese. If you are concerned about your child, speak with your GP and an Accredited Practising Dietitian. robiotics – good bacteria to help keep the digestive system healthy. Most useful to reduce the likelihood

of antibiotic-induced diarrhoea. Whenever my children have a dose of antibiotics, I usually get some probiotic yoghurt and milk drinks to have daily for a few weeks.

R S

increase cholesterol levels. Most

verweight and obesity – current

of primary school aged children are

P

rans Fat – avoid as they can

ecipes – involve your children in cooking and planning family meals, and they will be more likely to

eat the food. This is a win-win! ugar – naturally occurring sugar in fruit and milk is unlikely to be a concern in a child’s diet as they

provide other important nutrients. Added sugar in foods (eg. biscuits, cakes) is something to watch out for, as sugar

82 Offspring | summer 2013

nderweight – less common than overweight, but can still be cause

for concern. If you are worried about the weight of your child, please speak to your GP or an Accredited Practising Dietitian.

V

egetables – very few of us eat enough vegetables.

Children will typically model their eating from their

parents. If there is one change you make to your families eating, then I would strongly encourage it to be eating more vegetables. This is a change you won’t regret!

W Z

holegrains – choose wholegrains instead of refined and processed grains to get more fibre and

antioxidants. inc – essential for normal growth and development in children. Good sources of zinc include lean meat,

chicken, fish, lentils, nuts, seeds and wholegrain cereals.

calendar of events FRIday 7 December

Sunday 2 December MARKET GIRL Put the 2nd of December in your diaries - Market Girl is just in time for Christmas! With all things handmade and unique you are bound to find that perfect Christmas present you have been looking for.

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BALLAJURA PICTURES IN THE PARK: HAPPY FEET 2 A family event with BYO picnic and community run sausage sizzle and other treats available.

• COST: Free • TIME: Picnic 6pm, Santa 7pm, Movie 7.30pm • VENUE: Kingfisher Oval (corner of Kingfisher drive and Illewarra Crescent) • CONTACT: Lisa Cornelius lisa.cornelius@swan.wa.gov.au

Friday 7 December Sunday 2 December LITTLE FEET FESTIVAL Featuring stage shows, dance clinics, street entertainment, rides, art workshops, international food and more.

• COST: Free • TIME: 1pm – 5pm • VENUE: Edith Cowan University (near The Pines picture garden) • CONTACT: Kelly Price 9400 4705

FUN ON THE FORESHORE Silent disco, drumming parade, live entertainment, a petting zoo, sport demonstrations, and a free sausage sizzle.

• COST: Free • TIME: 10am – 1.30pm • VENUE: Eastern Foreshore, Mandurah Terrace, Mandurah • CONTACT: Community Development 9550 3850

Saturday 8 December

Sunday 2 December EAST FREMANTLE FESTIVAL A festival for the entire family with live music, artisan (handmade) market, gourmet food, kids activities and much more.

• COST: Free • TIME: 1pm – 7pm • VENUE: George Street, East Fremantle • CONTACT: Cynthia Williamson, Heart Inspired Events 0415 649 265

LEEDERVILLE CARNIVAL Inaugural ‘light up Leederville Carnival’ - free entertainment and attractions for all ages.

• COST: Free • TIME: 1pm – 8pm • VENUE: Leederville Town Centre, Corner of Vincent and Newcastle Street • CONTACT: Yvette Coyne9273 6000

Saturday 8 December

Tuesday 4, 18 December MUMS WITHOUT MUMS Fortnightly sessions run on Tuesdays for women who are raising young children without their own mother. A chance to bond and share stories with crèches available.

• COST: Free • TIME: 10am – 12pm • VENUE: Lords Café, 3 Price Street Subiaco • CONTACT: Natasha Annan 9237 9216

4SURE MUSIC AND SKATE FESTIVAL A free event incorporating live music and a skate competition.

Lots of stalls, food and activities!

• COST: Free • TIME: 4pm – 7pm • VENUE: Nedlands Foreshore and Skate Park • CONTACT: Megan Chittock 9273 3500

Sunday 9 December Thursday 6 December SUBIACO STREET FESTIVAL A truly family fun night for all ages! The annual Subiaco Street Festival will see Rockeby Road ablaze with live circus performances and lots of games to join in.

• COST: FREE entry & FREE parking • TIME: 5pm – 9pm • VENUE: Rockeby Road, between Roberts and Bagots Road Subiaco • CONTACT: Pro Subi info@prosubi.com.au

CAROLS IN THE PARK 19th annual Carols in the Park featuring The Three Wise Men riding in on camels and performances by the Perth City Brass Orchestra, Johnny Young Talent School of WA, the Coastal Scottish Pipe band, and much more.

• COST: Free • TIME: 9.30am • VENUE: Jolimont Primary School, 657 Hay Street, Jolimont • CONTACT: Natasha Annan, 9237 9216 or natashaa@subiaco.wa.gov.au

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Offspring | summer 2013 83

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• COST: Free • TIME: Saturday 15 December - 7.50pm • Saturday 12 January - 8.00pm • Saturday 9 February - 7.45pm • VENUE: Kings Square Fremantle • CONTACT: City of Fremantle 9432 9999 or www.fremantle.wa.gov.au

Monday 31 December COMMUNITY NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATIONS The perfect setting for a memorable New Year, with festivities galore and loads of entertainment and live music.

• COST: Free • TIME: 6.00pm – 12.00 midnight • VENUE: Eastern Foreshore, Mandurah Terrace • CONTACT: Events team- 9550 3840

Sunday 16 December (every Sunday to 24 February) SUNSET@SUBI An annual free concert series held in various parks around the City of Subiaco. With a different group performing every week there is something for everyone.

• COST: Free • TIME: 5pm – 7pm • VENUE: Various parks around Subiaco • CONTACT: City of Subiaco- 9237 9222

• COST: Free • TIME: 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm • VENUE: Sunday 3 February, Lawler Park – Draper Street, Floreat • Sunday 10 February, Masons Gardens, Melvista Ave, Dalkeith • Sunday 17 February, Allen Park, Kirkwood Street, Swanbourne • Sunday 24 February, Dot Bennett Park, Smyth Road, Nedlands • CONTACT: Misha Elliott 9273 3500

Wednesday 6 February TWILIGHT STORYTIME Come to our annual popular Twilight Storytime at Inglewood Library and enjoy a selection of stories from Ace kid’s entertainer Glenn Swift. Bring your picnic basket and blanket and dress in your PJ’s for a fun evening for all the family.

• COST: Free • TIME: 6pm – 7pm • VENUE: Inglewood Library, corner of Beaufort St & Tenth Ave • CONTACT: 9205 7700 or visit www.stirling. wa.gov.au/summersetfestival for more info

Sunday 17 February KIDS FESTIVAL WELCOME TO FUNLANDIA Welcome to Funlandia…the place where weird and wonderful things come together! Special guests include The WotWots with plenty of carnival rides, arts, stage entertainment, bouncy castles, craft activities, workshops, food and more!

• COST: Free entry – gold coin donation for rides • TIME: 10am – 3pm • VENUE: Yokine Reserve, Yokine • CONTACT: Visit www.stirling. wa.gov.au/summersetfestival for more info0777

Saturday 12 January CINEMA UNDER STARLIGHT The first of a series of three outdoor family movies presented by Shire of Mundaring. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on, refreshments and snacks will be available.

• COST: Free • TIME: Gates open from 6pm • VENUE: 12 January at Elsie Austin Oval, Chidlow St, Mt Helena • 19 January at Helena Valley/ Boya Oval, Scott St, Helena Valley • 2 February at Wooroloo Primary School, Wade St, Wooroloo • CONTACT: Cathryn Hewitt on 9290 6706 or visit www.mundaring.wa.gov.au

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Give your child the ultimate lifetime gift.

Make positive changes while they sleep tonight. It takes less than 5 minutes.

“I have used the technique of SleepTalk™ over the past 14 years. SleepTalk™ is a safe effective and a very valuable process. I have found it useful in my clinical practice and recommend it highly.”

– Dr. Eileen Feeney Registered MD and Psychiatrist The Sleeptalk™ program gives parents the tools to be able to assist their children to overcome challenges as they arise. For just 3-5 mins a night you can empower your child to be self-confident and have a positive self-image for the rest of their lives.

To find out more call Di 1300 349 378 visit www.diwestmindcoach.com

Offspring | summer 2013 85

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Where you can find everything you need for your little bundle and more!

Email: mail@babybeat.com.au Or call us on 042 981 3650 For further information visit us at

My Baby Bundle

www.choodie.com

www.mybabybundle.com.au sales@mybabybundle.com.au Phone (08) 9582 2264

Book today fo Autum r n 2013!

Advertising in Offspring magazine offers a unique and value added opportunity for your business to promote exceptional products and services to over 100,000 readers every quarter who are smack bang in the middle of your target market.

Alongside our distribution of 100,000 beautifully presented Offspring hard copies to family oriented locations around Perth, we also have a very active Facebook page with over 3,000 friends. Perhaps they might like to be your friends too.

Be seen by 100,000 readers from as low as $240 + gst ... with 3 months exposure!

OFFSPRING Summer 2013 ad.indd 1

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