Sydney Summer 2018 digital issue by Offspring Magazine

Summer 2018

Spiritual Healing

ZOË FOSTER BLAKE Dynamic & Drama Free

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contents

summer

EDITOR’S NOTE

EDITOR’S TOP PICKS Some favourite finds to add some luxury to your Summer...from homewares to an indulgent cup of tea!

10 BE BOLD. BE BEAUTIFUL Beauty is not just what you feel on the inside, but how you look on the outside. And with some help you will not just look but feel beautiful, and just in time for Summer! 12

GO-TO GIRL ZOË FOSTER BLAKE For an entrepreneurial roller- coaster ride of fun, frivolity, probably fairy floss and a fart joke or two.

18 MOTHER OF EARTH Climate change champion, mother of four and founder of 1 Million Women, Natalie Isaacs, is an inspiring woman proving that one person is capable of making a difference. 22

FUN IN THE SUN Get your family summer ready with the top products to make these holidays one to remember.

24 PATH OF LOVE A recount of a powerful, selfdiscovery course designed to break through limiting, personal barriers that block people from achieving what we really want out of life. 28

MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL Why we are creating an endemic of narcissistic children, where they have a heightened sense of self importance and with a lack of empathy towards others.

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

28 sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

32 SPIRITUAL HEALING Skeptical but desperate clients with diverse conditions including addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression and eating disorders have come for and received “transformative” healing in the nurturing hands of these spiritual practices. 36 PREPARING FOR BABY SPECIAL FEATURE Our guide of must-haves to help you be prepared for your new little bundle. 50 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Our Christmas gift-buying selections for the family

59 NSW GETAWAY GUIDE Whether it’s a weekend you want or a few weeks, NSW has it all for families.

68 BOOK REVIEW Summer’s great reading picks for the family

59 ISSUE 34 SUMMER 2018

Zoë Foster Blake Photo: Michelle Tran

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

Managing Editor Kate Durack Contributing writers Ann Marie Bradstreet, Brooke EvansButler, Lisa O’Rourke, Colleen Willis, Chris Pritchard, Wendy Muller, Hannah Whittaker, Priyanka Clark, Rebecca Waghorn, Jessica De Freitas Cardoso, Jessica Staheli, Chethana Tarun. Graphic Designers Steven Lillywhite, Emma Georgeson Printed by Offset Alpine Printing

Offspring magazine is an independent magazine published quarterly by Offspring Magazine Pty Ltd. Opinions represented are not necessarily those of the publisher. Offspring magazine contains general information and does not claim to substitute for health or parenting advice. All content is subject to copyright, and may not be reproduced without permission.

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EDITOR’S NOTE summer 2018

While Offspring is a mainstream family lifestyle magazine, I love to include juicier topics around spirituality and personal development for mums, as well as more pervasive child-rearing issues.

think this is an interesting edition, with a change of tone, to incorporate what I feel are more “Real” issues we face as parents, and as women. In our last issue I shared details of my recent experience with depression, where I felt overwhelmed by pressures to combine both career and motherhood, which resulted in hospitalisation earlier this year (Editor’s Note, Winter 2017). Here, I mentioned how two energy healers, Yvette and Brenda, helped lift me from the darkness. After numerous inquiries from readers, it was fitting to include an article about these healers and their modalities, and how these alternative methods help people overcome emotional struggles (“Spiritual Healing,” p32). Stating the obvious, perhaps, but if we are happier and truer to ourselves, we are better mothers who have more to give – more patience, more insight, If we are happier more love, for our children - creating and truer to ourselves, happier families and hopefully we are better mothers a stronger, more insightful next who have more to give generation. My personal, introspective – more patience, more journey this year has involved various insight, more love, for spiritual and emotional experiences, our children.” including the Path of Love retreat in the Hunter Valley, NSW. This course is a powerful, transformational inquiry into helping people become more fulfilled, happier and ultimately having a more authentic life. You can read about this in “Path of Love,” p24. Inspiration can be found from One 6

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

Million Women founder, Natalie Isaacs, a grandmother and mother of four, who has identified mothers as the Number One influence affecting household carbon blueprint. She has created a huge following online, where she offers advice on how mothers can make a quantifiable difference to pollution levels, as well as save money on our power bills. Her story: “Mother of Earth,” p18. Chris Pritchard’s article, “Mirror, mirror on the wall,” (p28) is confronting. Like many mothers, I have been focused on helping my children avoid self-esteem challenges, but, I didn’t really consider a back swing Narcissism. Have we swung the pendulum too far? This article is thought-provoking. This edition includes our annual “Having a Baby” special feature, to help Mums-tobe in welcoming their most precious gift – a newborn child. We also have a Christmas Gift Guide, which might inspire you to find some lovely finds for loved ones. Speaking of loved ones, I thank my very patient and special children, Helena and Jarvis, and my family; as well as the important people who work hard to continue to make Offspring a strong, free, magazine for us all to enjoy - Jess Loudoun, Steve Lilywhite, Elle Higham, Jess Watson, as well as the many other contributors. Happy Christmas and I hope 2018 is special for you and your families.

Kate Durack X

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go-to girl Zoë Foster Blake For an entrepreneurial roller-coaster ride of fun, frivolity, probably fairy floss and a fart joke or two.

BY ANN MARIE BRADSTREET

Zoë Foster Blake is a fast-paced modern take on the Renaissance Woman. The beauty aficionado and Go-To Skin Care founder also writes books, overlords a formidable online universe through Instagram and expels, at an overwhelming rate, a variety of products for our consumption pleasure. The wife of well-known comedian Hamish Blake, shares how living with the principles of fun, surprise and delight helps her get away with, and do, a lot of stuff.

oë Foster Blake has her hand in a lot of pies; indeed, she is purported to be a champion of their consumption. Pie Eating

Champion is one of the more outlandish claims made on her profile at www.zotheysay.com. The former beauty editor of Cosmopolitan magazine and successful author of eight books with Penguin Random House, launched her GoTo Skincare line a month before the birth of her first child, Sonny, aged three. Since then she has been busy with motherhood and micro projects, managing a burgeoning Instagram page, producing lip balm, blog posts, apps, books, oh and a daughter, Rudy, just shy of four months. Reports that Foster Blake (37), was raised in rural NSW without a television could explain the enigma of this rampant productivity. Research, albeit dubious, indicates that while the rest of us were being brainwashed by Bert Newton through morning television that our lives would lose meaning without a steam cleaner, Foster Blake was busy ticking off life goals. Motherhood has not slowed Foster Blake, it may have redirected her creative energy somewhat but has not thwarted it. Becoming a parent for most usually means collapsing into a milk-stained heap in front of the television while it offers you soothing advice on how to get your life insurance in order.

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

Everything changes when you’re a mother doesn’t it? The identity crisis is real, and certainly the professional. For Foster Blake it has meant slightly adapting her trajectory of over achievement (she published her first novel at 27). If you know Foster Blake through her Instagram platform, Zoë Foster Blake (@zoyousay), you may be forgiven for falling under the illusion that she is mere mortal. You might think of her as an online friend. Someone who makes you snort when you laugh and lets you feel good about beauty products and sponge cake, and most pertinently that life doesn’t have to be perfect to be a gas (she has also just ripped out a kid’s book about farts?) You may wonder what’s so superhuman about farts, cheeky Instagram posts, cute kids and a husband with food in his teeth. A possible answer is that Foster Blake’s ability to create an accessible, humorous arena for her 619 000 followers is a superb and masterful marketing feat, and no accident. Foster Blake came to the phone after a sleepless night breastfeeding her daughter, Rudy, who at 16 weeks is teething already, getting things done, much like her mother. She apologised for being tired and explained how she procrastinates, when asked if she’d ever tried it. “Of course I have. Most things actually, like daily things. All the clothes are at the end of my bed on that nice ottoman thing you buy that just becomes a place for clothes. I left the house this morning and there was just mess everywhere. So the boring day to day tasks, they don’t get done but the big projects, they do tend to get done which is a strange habit, but of course I procrastinate….” Photo credit: Michelle Tran

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Know your super powers. Do the things that you’re good at.

lit novels, her most recent, The Wrong Girl being adapted into a successful Network Ten series of the same name, starring Jessica Marais and Rob Collins. She has also published several non-fiction books including beauty manual Amazinger Face and Textbook Romance, a dating guide cowritten with then “friend” and “to be” husband, Hamish Blake, and is about to release her first children’s picture book called No-one Likes a Fart with illustrator Adam Nickel. She has released an app for broken-hearted singles called Break-Up Boss with plans to release it in book form next year and has collaborated on a clothing line currently flying hot off the racks with fashion brand Skin and Threads. As CEO of her rapidly expanding company GoTo Skincare she oversees its dayto-day operations whilst keeping us abreast of all this through funny posts on Instagram. Perhaps, more is at play here than a TV-free childhood, and that’s okay tired mums and dads because this just means ABC Kids can stay on while Zoë Foster Blake hoards all the super powers. But she needs them because she is one busy mother. She explains that once she has an idea she is driven to expel it,

Foster Blake appears to have escaped Bert Newton’s mind

“I think you throw everything at a project and then it’s done. It’s

control and, being untethered to notions of domestic aspiration

almost like I have to get it out of my head to feel like I can move

and invisible germs (housework be damned), is creating an empire

forward onto the next thing.”

instead. Describing the practice of positive procrastination,

These ideas which often bubble around in her mind for a while,

marinating ideas and pulling all-nighters she is clearly a person attune to doing the things she loves. When congratulated on avoiding the mundane she offers, “Know your super powers. Do the things that you’re good at.” Brace yourselves for the

some longer than others (Break-Up

I think you throw everything at a project and then it’s done. It’s almost like I have to get it out of my head to feel like I can move forward onto the next thing.

condensed summary of the things Foster Blake is good at. As a magazine journalist with over ten

Boss took six years to manifest), are usually born from a desire or need for something she can’t find. Cleaning her ottoman may have saved her some time and effort but perhaps the world can never have too many lobster jumpers and Foster Blake likes making things.

“Most of the time I make things that I wished I had. With the

years of experience, Foster Blake worked both as a beauty editor

skincare I thought, ‘Aw, I wish that existed, I’ll bloody make it

and relationship columnist for numerous publications, including

myself ’, and certainly with some of the non-fiction books that was

Cosmopolitan and Harper’s Baazar. She has published four chick-

the same and then with this children’s book it was not because

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

there weren’t stunning children’s books already out there but it was just an idea that I had, that I wanted to, that I had to ‘get out’ as it were, there are just so many bad fart jokes.” And so, Foster Blake’s latest offering No-one Likes a Fart, collaborated with illustrator Adam Nickel which she credits for his mid-century style (think Mr Men), was released by Penguin Random House Australia in November. It is a fart book with a message. She didn’t mean for it to have a moral tale but explained that, although not a fan of earnestness, she felt a certain responsibility writing a children’s book, recognising the perils of peer groups as a relevant subject for young

I have changed a lot how I do things and it probably seems a bit more scattered but I think it’s because my energy bursts are shorter and I can do different little shorter projects rather than one long book project.

readers. She explains, the message formed organically and felt it should be there. “I think it’s mostly a funny book but then there’s a nice message that even

“So, that’s probably why I’m working on smaller projects because I have a shorter attention span, I

if people are being mean to you or

can’t quite bang out the 100,000 words I used to ...

calling you names, there will always

So yeah, everything changes when you’re a mother

be someone who loves you and there

doesn’t it? The identity crisis is real, and certainly

will always be good people.”

the professional. I have changed a lot how I do

Foster Blake is a writer at heart and as she speaks of her craft her speech slows and her voice catches at times, with vulnerability creating some room in the

things and it probably seems a bit more scattered but I think it’s because my energy bursts are shorter and I can do different little shorter projects rather than one long book project.”

conversation. “Writing is inherently

And thus, Foster Blake reveals

selfish. You are by yourself. You

resilience in attitude and quotes

don’t have a boss. Now I

sensible advice from her mother

see it for the indulgence

that the chaos of life with small

that it is. If the kids

children will soon pass. “Look,

are out of the house,

I know it’s a moment in time

which is just never

and I don’t fret about it at all.

because I am tethered

It’ll come back and I’ll have

by breastfeeding at

plenty of years to write more

the moment, but if I

fiction and so, I sort of enjoy

do get the house to

the different projects and

myself I just want to write. I don’t want

I think it makes me more efficient in some ways

to go shopping or

because you’ve got such

get my hair done, for

a small window to do

me writing is a real

the work. You have to

joy and something

produce quality work in a

that I miss deeply.”

smaller amount of time.

When noted she hadn’t

The old me before

written a novel since the

kids would just sit

birth of her son Sonny in

at my computer

2014 she laughed, “Shhh,

for eight hours

I’d hoped no-one noticed.

and I reckon

Thankfully the T.V show’s kept it

I’d spend six

going a bit longer.” She explains

of that just

this is more an adjustment

pissing about

of her creative process since becoming a mother.

and now I’m like, you’ve got two hours, you’d better write.”

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

With less time for the introspective task of novel writing she has utilised her well-honed skills as a commercial writer in an impressive turn at mumpreneurship and, dare it be said, capitalised on the shared humour and wit of her high profile relationship with Hamish Blake to catapult Zoë Foster Blake into an emerging brand. “As a beauty journalist for a long time, I was in the business of ‘recommending’ anyway and Instagram is just a natural progression of that. I can do captions because I’m a professional writer and I enjoy it, and it’s a way for me to have a mouth piece,” she explains. Her mouthpiece is funny and light, her wit sharp and when discussing how she gets away with swearing and risqué jokes she says, “The beauty of Instagram is you are who you are and everyone uses it for different purposes. Mine is to just have fun, be a bit cheeky and also, I guess to some extent have an advertisement for my writing.” Foster Blake appears to navigate the pitfalls of online backlash with a phrase she often coins in Instagram posts as a “special brand of arrogance” but perhaps this wily twist of humility can be attributed to a magic elixir of

in principles. Foster Blake explains her principles

understanding how

for Go-To Skincare, “You have to earn permission

to reach an audience

from people to sell them things and I don’t take that

and a personality

lightly, it’s just got to be perfect or we just won’t

essentially grounded

launch it. We always come up with the best possible product with the best possible ingredients and it’s a real team thing.” When pressed on broader principles she says,

The old me before kids would just sit at my computer for eight hours and I reckon I’d spend six of that just pissing about and now I’m like, you’ve got two hours, you’d better write.

“I’m actually reading a book called Principles at the moment and I’m sort of getting my head around it…Look, I think my family and my husband and I are pretty aligned in that we love fun and surprise and delight, and we love generosity and gratitude. So I think that it’s working in the realm of making people’s days a bit happier, maybe.” And so, perhaps this is why Zoë Foster Blake can suggest a night nurse in a blog as a solution for sleepless nights with a newborn without a cacophony of cruel online claws calling for her eyes to be scratched out. Principles go a long way, just be wary if she starts spruiking steam cleaners.

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

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Mother of

Earth Climate change champion, mother of four and founder of 1 Million Women, Natalie Isaacs, is an inspiring woman proving that one person is capable of making a difference.

BY BROOKE EVANS-BUTLER

s mothers, we all want to make this

The cause continues to climb

world a better place for our children, but

towards their one million goal

understandably, good intentions can

(the 1 Million Women community,

often go unactioned in the busyness of

which includes women who have

work and family.

committed as members, as well as

Battling climate change wasn’t always on the

their followers across the 1 Million

forefront of Natalie’s mind. In fact, she was a cosmetics

Women social platforms, currently

manufacturer and a busy mum of four. But then, by

comprises more than 700,000).

making some simple changes, she reduced her electricity

Additionally, the cause has expanded to not

bill by 20 percent (with electricity prices the way they are,

only encourage women and give ideas on how to

what family wouldn’t be motivated by that!).

reduce their carbon footprint, but also take on larger

“I realised then that what I did was powerful, and if other people did what I just did that would be incredible,” she recalls. “I went on and changed my food waste habits

campaigns, such as fighting for the Great Barrier Reef and reducing food waste. “The heart and soul of 1 Million Women is about

and from that one action I profoundly changed the way I

empowering women and girls to live with

lived. So, I went on to think, ‘Oh my goodness, imagine if I

the least impact on the planet,”

could share my story with other women like me, who were

Natalie says. “We show you that

not engaged for whatever reason, and if I could tell my

everything we do in our daily

story, they might want to change too.’ That is what really

life shapes the world

led me to create 1 Million Women.”

we live in, and of

Natalie founded 1 Million Women in 2009, and the idea

course, this is

was simple - get 1 Million Women to sign up to the website and make a commitment to cut a tonne of pollution out of their lives within a year. The movement grew quickly (although Natalie admits, she thought they would reach one million women within six months), and the movement is now reaching people all over the world.

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

By making some simple changes she reduced her electricity bill by 20 percent.

The idea was simple get 1 Million Women to sign up to the website and make a commitment to cut a tonne of pollution out of their lives within a year.

about climate change.” She says women are responsible for 85 per cent of the consumer decisions that impact a household’s carbon footprint, and with 17 per cent of global emissions coming from households, the difference small changes can make collectively is huge. However, it is not about making women and their families feeling guilty to facilitate change. “One of the things we have learnt is the way that we do it from a view of optimism and empowerment, not from guilt and despair,” Natalie says. “We show you how to act and we show you the results. We bring you along the road of empowerment as opposed to making you feel guilty about what you’re not doing. It is showing this collective action – if one million of us did this, then this would be the result.” Natalie says women are amazing at networking, and the social media following of 1 Million Women is certainly impressive. Natalie says the small team behind 1 Million Women decided to work on building their social media following and to make their blog a priority a few years ago, and it was the right decision. “The blog went from 500 views a month to 10,000 views a day,” Natalie says. Their social media community, through Facebook, Instagram and

Natalie’s top tips to make a change Natalie’s not suggesting you make drastic changes that will make a difference, which your family can begin today (and she didn’t suggest taking cold showers or living by candle light!). l Take a breath when you go to buy something and ask: Do I really need it?

“Overconsumption is out of control”. “Buy less – less is more. We can all stop consuming and we don’t need all the stuff that we have. Share, swap, buy second-hand, buy better quality – but buy less.” l

Reduce food waste “In Australia, we waste one in five shopping bags of food. Look at your portions. Don’t be tempted to buy two for one deals at the shops. Get yourself a worm farm or some chickens to reduce food waste.”

Reduce energy consumption “We can reduce energy consumption just by being vigilant around the house.” “That was the first thing I did. I didn’t even really know what I was doing – just turning this off at the wall – but it really makes a difference.”

Twitter is also very active – with the 1 Million Women team posting several times a day. “They are such an engaged community,” she says. “Social media is such a big part of how we communicate.” sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

The idea was simple - get

1 Million Women to sign up to the website and make a commitment to cut a tonne of pollution out of their lives within a year.

They are also working on a (free to download) app, which is planned to be launched in February. The app will provide daily climate actions and track how much carbon pollution you save. It is clear the 1 Million Women message is making an impact and earning kudos. Natalie has recently been awarded The Australian Geographic Conservationist of the Year. “I am so

big difference and the benefits can be great. She believes her

honoured by it because it is real recognition of the work that

children (the youngest is now 16) really live with an appreciation

we do,” she says. “Behaviour changing is the elephant in the

of the Earth and she encourages women to get their children

room – it is the hardest thing to do. In an affluent community like

onboard as well.

Australia it is hard to change the way you live. “You might do something for a month or two but

“We have this commitment that we want 20 percent of our community to be under 18 years old, because it

then you forget. We are trying to get women to change their lives profoundly so you don’t even see it as behaviour change any more, it just becomes who you are and that is a hard thing to do.” Since Natalie is a mother and a grandmother, she gives a sense of comfort that she truly understands how making and sticking to changes can be difficult. But, she acknowledges little changes can make a 20

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

is the youth who are the influencers and the

“Behaviour changing is the elephant in the room – it is the hardest thing to do.”

leaders of tomorrow. It is their generation growing up in the most consumerist period of humanity. They are the ones who can make a difference and fight against consumerism.” To find out more about 1 Million Women or to sign up to fight the climate crisis, go to www.1millionwomen.com.au

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ith warmer weather comes holidays at the beach and adventures outdoors. This brings some parents nightmarish troubles of sticky, sandy children, sunburnt faces and dirty feet. But do not fear, we have listed the best products of this year to bring you only the good times, and tips to avoid the bad.

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MINION SUNSCREEN $11 Get your kids excited about sun protection by handing them their very own tube of Minions sunscreen. Available in Woolworths, Chemist Warehouse and other retailers across Australia. www.reefsun.com

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

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e v o L f o h t a P

The Mighty Gum . ... at first glance ecial, one of many rld. wo e th ut Not unique, not sp ho ug ro t, and common th si I e er wh om fr Omnipresent of the Mighty Gum. ll see the power wi u yo d depth an er os But look cl gradually growing d higher, its stem an gh hi . s me he ti ac re er a solid trunk, ov Erect and tall, it tamorphises into what the and bulk as it me to take in more of twards, expanding ou g in ad re sp es Its branch air has to offer. re, and dying and re and more and mo mo g, in ly ip of these, lt mu es ieving the losses Its delicate leav ee, never once gr tr e th g; me. in co ll ll fa wi , that more dropping off and its soul, its guts t, ar he ntinuous s co it , le in nt s as it know rground in ge h, spreading unde rt dy. ea bo e d th an d in oo ed bl ot s , to sustain it It is strongly ro re tu is mo re mo s, trient the breeze and search of more nu moves gently with it n, su g in ar se the its leaves. It doesn’t resist gently fall from allows the rain to eds to feed all energy, that it ne s it in g in ak so n, e trunk, Opening to the su ches, the bark, th e leaves, the bran its elements – th s… all of her. the guts, the root t, stay a that like to visi re e many creatu s s and bugs. rd bi Which then feed th e wrote this poem on the Path , the beetles, th ts an e th – er ng ements won’t while or stay lo el e th s nd ta rs of Love retreat recently, de es and un And then, as it ag as it looks or rr te no is e e, ther during a small assignment keep its body aliv stic little healthy, enthusia o tw s it es se where we reflected on Nature d down an pe and ll of optimism, ho fu – ng vi ri th gs saplin and its symbolism to us. e of continue the cycl energy, eager to It was about my journey as a Woman and as the Mighty Gum.

BY KATE DURACK

a Mother.

Surprising for an editor perhaps, I frequently agonise over writing, but I wrote this poem in 10 minutes. I wrote with freedom. Self-doubt didn’t suffocate me, instead a bolder, richer and more creative part of myself emerged; overpowering my usual insecurity and self-criticism. I credit this to the Path of Love. The Path of Love (PoL) is a powerful, seven-day course, set in natural bushland in the Hunter Valley, NSW, which is formulated to break through limiting, personal barriers that block people from achieving what we really want out of life. It is designed to help us develop more Love, and to live a more meaningful life.

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

It enabled me to go within, to the core, beyond Ego and facades such as appearance, lifesituation and personality; which cleared the way for my natural drive and passion to return. I went to the Essence. I experienced an authentic me. People had different personal motivations for being there - relationship problems, a lack of career direction, a personal crisis of some kind, dealing with childhood and past traumas, or, simply, because they felt at Crossroads and wanted more passion and direction in their life. I didn’t have a clear reason for going on this retreat. I just noticed a few coincidences around PoL and was compelled to sign up, not knowing very much about it at all. I am glad I listened to that inner whisper, because of the University degrees, travel, relationships and other life-changing events, this course has affected me, and improved my life, like no other. PoL is a deep inquiry into the Self, involving meditation; music; dancing; writing; time in nature; sharing experiences, thoughts, and emotions; reflection; and silence. There were 30 participants and the same number of staff, our ‘Angels’, who supported us through the intense, exhilarating and, at times, confronting, journey within. They formed a nurturing womb which held us while we shed outmoded and decaying belief systems and habits, allowing for a truer self to emerge. We worked intimately in a group of eight where all exteriors washed away. I now consider these people another family. The bond we formed during this personal process was profound. And, under the skilful, compassionate and deeply insightful guidance of our facilitators, Samved and Mairead, we were safe to allow raw vulnerability, which encouraged trust, truth, unconditional love and deep, personal breakthroughs to happen. I faced the scary, dark fears, and also celebrated the light-filled,

Of the University degrees, travel, relationships deep-rooted Rage and Shame in and other life-c hanging being a woman. It was a lowevents, this cour se has level thing. On the outset, I was affected me, and improved reasonably accomplished and happy, my life, like but deep down, this self-subjugation no other. was killing the inner fire. In an effort to majestic parts of myself.

I was surprised to learn I held

avoid being a “hard bitch,” I had suppressed my natural Womanhood.

perth | spring/summer 2018 | Offspring

fear locked by a I had been b good enough. of not being ALL jection. We A fear of re of isolation feel a sense over not and anxiety ed. being accept We NEED to belong.

over it, tired, mainly with my relationship in particular, and came away with the support and feeling that I was still ok, that I was not banished, cast out… I have always known that I’m not perfect, but I gave myself such a hard time, from quite early on. I feel I have made a quantum leap.”

Tanya, an independent woman, was overcoming childhood sexual abuse and trauma: “The loving kindness of PoL fast-forwarded the healing I had made myself ‘small,’ in what I thought femininity ‘should’ look like. I had believed I was an empowered woman! But, through the course’s penetrating process, I experienced a different, new and beautiful kind of power in the Feminine. The experience helped me take ownership of myself as a

of childhood wounds that I did not realise were holding me back in love and life.” Mark, a devoted husband and father, says, he was tired, stressed and depressed. “I had lost the passion and connection with my life purpose. Life post-PoL is completely transformed. I

woman and as a mother – opinions, self-support, sexuality,

am excited about the future and have a new perspective on what

sensuality, inner strength and a Voice to express what I want

contribution I can make.”

and need, as well as love and compassion. I found a Lioness.

Carol, a powerful, sophisticated, charming woman reveals:

Protective of her children, and herself. Protective of women.

“Path of Love helped me understand I had a longing for

I identified issues I’d been harbouring since childhood,

connection - with my Self and with others. Since, I have been able

adolescence and adult life, and was then encouraged to nurture

to meditate easily and to find the real “me” within. I’ve also been

these wounds, and to let them go.

more aware of patterns where I may self-sabotage and I am able to

I also found a need to Speak my Truth, overthrowing fears of reproach or judgement, and I’ve been amazed at how well this has worked since in my relationships, work and daily life. I was too afraid to do this previously for fear of rejection, conflict and

connect with friends and with life at a much deeper level, which is enriching my life. I feel an inner peace.” Troy, a devout Christian, father and husband, says: “I came to learn and grow, and discovered I really wanted to see the bits of me I always hid from. I was encouraged to share,

ridicule. I realised I have been quite a fearful person, which, despite appearing confident, manifests as shyness and me avoiding social

to cry, to listen, and to dance, and to realise that I was loved and divinely bespoke.” Wen, a charismatic woman coming to terms with the

situations. I felt awkward and nervous of

ending of her marriage, shares:

intimacy, and actually found it almost

“I was able to look at my self-doubts

impossible to look people in the eye. It was humorous and a great relief at the end of this course to be able to do this apparently basic exercise, that had seemed so terrifying seven days earlier. I had been blocked by a fear of not being good enough. A fear of rejection.

I was surprised to learn I held deep -rooted Rage and Shame in being a woman.

gentle, understanding surrounding, you can feel pure bliss.” Ant, a clever, eloquent and successful businessman and father of two, explains:

course, I was semi anxious most of the time with

condition. We ALL feel a sense of isolation and I learned that all have our insecurities, weaknesses, fears

to confront but when you are in a loving,

“Its formula is genius and gruelling. On the

This, I learnt, is inherently part of the human anxiety over not being accepted. We NEED to belong.

and love for myself. Old beliefs are hard

that simmering turning up of the requirement to keep going deeper. That constant inching forward of the intensity

and pains. Of particular interest, was an insight into the male

and that escalating demand to face yourself. I found real power

psyche and heart. I was ignorant to just how vulnerable men are

there. It was enough of a taste to show me that most fear can be

too, and they, like women, are just as in need of love and meaning

transcended.”

in their lives.

For me, of course, life pressures and challenges remain, and

Here is a snapshot of what my new friends experienced on PoL:

integrating my learnings is an ongoing process, but I now know

Gunter, a husband and father who travelled from New

what self-love feels like.

Zealand to attend the course, shares: “I felt pretty much done with life - I was depressed, fed up,

I recently read somewhere: “Once you wake up, you can’t come back.” The Path of Love enabled this to happen and it feels great to be alive, present and loving, and Real.

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

Support your child with Kindervital! Infants through to teenagers need a constant supply of good food including vitamins and minerals needed to ensure healthy growth and energy. Kindervital For Children supports children during their growing years, helping them stay active, fit and alert. It is rich in vitamin C and calcium which supports the formation and maintenance of healthy bones, cartilage and teeth.

Kindervital is a special liquid formula that: Tastes delicious Contains Vitamin C and Calcium Contains Vitamin D and B Vitamins Contains Vitamins A and E Contains natural herbal extracts Always read the label and use only as directed.

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Mirror, mirror

on the wall Recent research suggests, in an effort to make children feel special and valued, parents are creating an endemic of narcissistic children, where they have a heightened sense of self importance along with a lack of empathy and understanding towards others. BY CHRIS PRITCHARD

on’t like the person you see in the mirror? If you’re only mildly miffed as you stare in open-mouthed horror, you’re more or less normal. But if your own reflection sparks waves of revulsion and nausea or, worse, makes

you actually throw up, you may need psychiatric treatment for a very real medical condition called dysmorphic disorder.

“We don’t need to keep focusing on self-esteem classes but should instead concentrate on empathy building.”

Some unfortunate victims even feel sick when they glimpse their own reflections while walking past shop windows. And,

undergraduate and postgraduate students at the University’s

recent reports suggest, aggressive American cosmetic surgeons

Geelong Waterfront campus. The prestigious Psychology Board

target sufferers by promising dramatic “cures”: surgery making

of Australia has endorsed Dr King as a clinical psychologist. And,

women and men happier with the way they look. (Both sexes

on the question of narcissism and children, he concedes that the

suffer from dysmorphic disorder, with women a big majority.)

most detailed research was done outside Australia by Drs W. Keith

While, on reflection, changing one’s adult appearance may be a good thing, kids have an opposite problem: some are too pleased with themselves, particularly with the way they look. Let’s not mince words here: society is battling an epidemic of

the United States. These two authorities consider permissive parenting, without limit-setting and focusing instead on rewards for no achievement

childhood narcissism. Experts contend it’s getting worse. Self-

- for instance, all children winning prizes after birthday party

important and self-satisfied children are obsessed with how they

games - contributes to an alarming situation. Dr King says the two

look - and believe they look great. What’s more, many parents

researchers “place this in a broader socio-cultural perspective,

make the situation worse by failing to recognise these problems

linking it to the rise of social media and the Internet - and on

even exist.

media focused on celebrity.”

As Dr Ross King puts it: “Permissive and over-indulgent

Campbell and Jean M. Twenge who are based at universities in

“Parents want to raise children with good self-esteem,” he

parenting has certainly played a big part in an upward swing

continues. But, he adds, there’s a downside: “a rise in narcissism

in narcissism.” Dr King, 55, has studied the subject in detail.

in children - a belief that they’re special, talented, don’t have to

He’s Associate Professor of Psychology at Deakin University.

abide by rules and that their needs are more important than those

With experience honed over a quarter-century, he teaches both

of others.” Drs Twenge and Campbell report not only a rise in

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

Real Life

“If your daughter is a princess, it won’t mean you’re a queen.” Rather, “you become her subject, obeying her every wish.”

narcissism in recent years, but also a fall in empathy along with reduced capacity to understand others’ perspectives and feelings. Studies, he reveals, have looked at the role of parenting behaviour in the development of narcissism. One study concluded that children whose parents showed high degrees of positive reinforcement and parental involvement displayed exaggerated senses of self-worth and a sense of superiority - characteristics of what’s defined as grandiose narcissism. Another frightening study of seven-year-olds found parents over-using the my-child-is-special argument spark development of childhood grandiose narcissism. “Twenge and Campbell suggest that we don’t need to keep focusing on self-esteem classes but should instead concentrate on empathy building,” Dr King summarises. The two American researchers’ own studies confirm there are increases in quests for fame and celebrity status in storylines in books and on television. Also, their analyses indicate a much greater emphasis these days on individuals rather than the community. Pop songs use the words “I” and “me” far more

Experienced Orchestra.

Children learn through experience and play. At KU, we encourage children to connect, wonder, explore and discover.

Experience

We create experiences, so they go further.

ku.com.au

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

the KU difference

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

How to raise well-adjusted kids Make children aware of their abilities - tell them they’re great at this but not so good at that. • Build ability to accept criticism as well as praise. • Encourage self-esteem - but couple this with highlighting the importance of compassion and ensuring children understand they should balance their needs with the needs and rights of others. • While boosting compassion and empathy, foster a sense of community by getting children involved in doing charity work and chores at home. Make such activities seem a normal part of growing up. Source: Dr Ross King, psychology professor

Real Life

commonly than they did when today’s young adults were children. Empathy and a sense of community are rarely featured. “How well you’re doing in life is now often based

on social media likes and followers - and call-outs for positive affirmations,” Dr King maintains. “In this age of selfentitlement, parents struggle to find a balance between nurturing healthy self esteem and breeding puffed-up self-importance. “It’s not easy to find a line between keeping children happy and confident - and raising narcissists. Parents should avoid telling their children they’re the best at everything or that they’re the only ones who can do something. This leads to disappointment later on.” A common thread running through advice from child psychology experts is that we shouldn’t treat kids like royalty. Kids may bring joy to our lives - but that’s nothing special in itself. Other people’s children are simultaneously bringing similar joy to other people’s lives. Pithy advice from Dr Twenge: “Kiss the princess stuff goodbye.” Further, she adds: “Even though little girls are seemingly hardwired to fall in love with ‘things princess’, be cautious. Don’t buy rhinestone-embellished shirts that say “Little Princess” or “Diva,” she warns. “If your daughter is a princess, it won’t mean you’re a queen.” Rather, “you become her subject, obeying her every wish.” Softening her blow, she notes, however, that “dress-up” is fine because it encourages imagination - but try to avoid taking this a step further and treating your daughter or son as royalty.

ENROLLING NOW FOR 2019 Sydney Grammar School St Ives Preparatory School

DYNAMIC AND SYSTEMATIC HEALING THROUGH THE SUBCONSCIOUS SELF. HAVE YOU BEEN SUFFERING?

There is hope and help available! Either hands on or remotely! Experience dynamic healing and long term change in the areas of health and emotional wellbeing through two simple steps.

Come and visit at one of our school tours on 19 February or 12 March 2018, or on our Open Day on Friday 11 May 2018, from 9am to 12 noon. You can also find out more at the Mona Vale School’s Expo on 6 May and the Chatswood Expo on 4 & 5 August. Main points of entry are Preschool, Kindergarten, Year 3 and a small intake in Year 5. 11-21 Ayres Road, St Ives NSW 2075. Telephone +61 2 8302 5200 www.sydgram.nsw.edu.au/stives

STEP 1

STEP 2

YVETTE CLARKE Emotional Channel / Lightworker

BRENDA PITOUT Certified BodyTalk Practitioner

Identifies subconscious emotional blockages through the skills of clairaudience and clairsentience.

Facilitates a dynamic healing process resulting in systematic long term healing.

To make an appointment call: Yvette Clarke

0416 167 307

 yvetteleahclarke@gmail.com

30 Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney 13620_SGS_StIves_Offspring_Ad_112017_FA.indd 1

13/11/2017 12:47 pm

To make an appointment call: Brenda Pitout

0411 081 516

 bodytalkwa@gmail.com www.bodytalkwa.com.au

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

Explore, enjoy and fulfil your potential

Identify, belong and achieve in the pursuit of excellence

Teaching boys to be independent, responsible and self-confident www.cranbrook.nsw.edu.au

Currently enrolling for 2019, please contact our Admissions Team on 02 9327 9000. Senior School 5 Victoria Road Bellevue Hill NSW 2023

Junior School 6 Kent Road Rose Bay NSW 2029

St Mark’s Pre-school 1 Greenoaks Avenue Darling Point NSW 2027

St Michael’s Pre-school Cnr Gilliver Avenue & Vaucluse Road Vaucluse NSW 2030

ife

Real L

Spiritual healing practitioners, Yvette Clarke and Brenda Pitout, formed a unique alliance more than six years ago, successfully combining their individual abilities and together healing hundreds of clients who could not be helped by modern medicine - proving two heads and hearts are better than one and sometimes we’ve got to go deeper to achieve real change.

BY LISA O’ROURKE

ceptical but desperate clients with diverse conditions including addiction,

to reveal difficult but necessary information to

trauma, anxiety, depression and eating

her clients for healing to take place.

disorders have come for and received

Rather than “leave me to just sit in my

“transformative” healing in the nurturing hands of

heightened emotional state,” Kylie explains,

this remarkable pair.

“Yvette would always provide options for

As a Clairvoyant and Light Worker, Yvette

further support and assistance.”

Clarke, is able to clearly see, hear and feel her client’s subconscious emotional blockages. Before

felt powerless to help her clients heal the painful

finding Brenda, she felt powerless to help her

manifestations of their emotional blocks.

clients heal the painful manifestations of these emotional blocks that she was able to discern. With a, “nothing left to lose attitude”, Hayley, who was feeling depressed, anxious, suffering from insomnia and in deep despair,

In 2011 she found Brenda Pitout, “an astounding BodyTalk practitioner,” who was both capable and willing to use her clients’ notes to continue the healing process she had started. “Really, it took over a decade to find Brenda, who unlike all

attended her first session with Yvette following the death of her

others before her, was prepared to work with my findings and not

grandfather.

dismiss them due to the restrictions of her healing modality or

“The first few appointments blew me away, as Yvette has the ability to see into what is going on in your system emotionally and

ego,” Yvette reflects. Yvette sought Brenda’s help for excruciating endometriosis

what has or is causing it to happen. She is able to read into and settle

which was debilitating. After only a few sessions with Brenda, the

your system down with one of her amazing prayers,” explains Hayley.

symptoms dramatically improved. She also sought Brenda’s help

Kylie first attended a session with Yvette 14 years ago describing it

to release a lifetime of trauma and anxiety.

as, “the most unique and mind-blowing experience I have ever had.”

“It was after this astounding healing experience, I began

In this and subsequent sessions Kylie explains, “Yvette was spot

referring clients to Brenda to recalibrate, restructure and realise

on tuning into whatever was happening to me (emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically) and understanding all the micro emotions

their own healing,” Yvette explains. Yvette was now satisfied she could truly fulfil her manifesto of

that make up me, inspiring me with the confidence and skills to

providing people with an “emotional channel for the higher good

create the reality I truly desire.”

of humanity by shifting them out of their cycle of suffering and

Yvette, a self-proclaimed “blunt practitioner,” is often compelled 32

Before finding Brenda, however, Yvette often

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

abuse.” www.offspringmagazine.com.au

Yvette says clients often come to her when they

Brenda then uses these notes as a platform to optimise healing.

are at their lowest and feel “all else is lost.”

“BodyTalk uses the body’s own innate wisdom to heal

To conduct her session she must enter their sacred space (the room of their soul) and

itself. I merely facilitate this process by using neuro muscular

she will therefore only do this with

bio feedback and intuition to bring change to the governing blueprint through its healing priority,” explains Brenda.

permission.

She enters “The Zone (where she) interfaces

Upon invitation she enters

the left brain’s pragmatic and practical

this space by tapping

knowledge with the right side’s intuition

upon her song bowl that resonates with a strong and

unwavering

“The first few appointments blew me away, as Yvette has the ability to see into what is going on in your system emotionally and what is causing it to happen.”

pitch that carries with it the anticipation of what a client’s soul room may reveal. While immersed in the soul room, Yvette is able to pick out what she calls “the carrots from a stew” - the most relevant subconscious messages from which she scribes pages of notes that enlighten to the reason the client’s soul has presented to her on that day.

to bring about shifts of consciousness.” “Tapping on the brain enables us to focus on reprogramming of formula and tapping on the sternum enables access to the heart and storage of the information,” she continues. Brenda discovered the BodyTalk healing

modality in desperate pursuit to end her

own intermittent battle with depression and her daughter’s suffering with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. She believed this cured them both and was her impetus to train in the modality - “something anyone can learn”. She is now dedicated to the ‘ongoing study of humanity at the “University of Life.” The healing duo have given hope, health and happiness to hundreds of clients with a broad spectrum of ails, healing where modern medicine had failed.

GLENAEON SCHOOL TOURS Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner School connects our students to a bigger global picture, through an age-related curriculum delivered creatively, with a focus on imagination, critical thinking and academic excellence. To find out more about our education in 2018, we invite you to visit one of our three campuses on Sydney’s lower north shore by booking a tour. In 2018, we will be holding special Year 7 entry tours and Kindy entry tours, together with a High School Information evening. • Walk around our three beautiful campuses • Visit our classrooms • Hear presentations about our curriculum & join the Q&A • Enjoy a delicious morning tea catered by our wholefood canteen team

GRS085

To register visit: www.glenaeon.nsw.edu.au Middle Cove and Castlecrag tours call 02 9932 2325 Preschool tours call 02 9412 4457 CH ERISH ING CH ILDHOOD. EDUCATING FOR E XCELLENCE.

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Real Life

“The combination of a skilled and warm therapist delivering a “It’s ‘Out There’, but it works,” excites Doctor Matty Moore, MD FAAFP FACRRM

EM Cert, who, once sceptical, last year sought immediate resolution of issues that counselling and therapy could not provide. Unfamiliar to his Western Medical

kick-arse modality was a winning formula for me,” she says. A major depressive disorder, severe anxiety and an eating disorder had “steadily consumed”, dubious but desperate scientist, Lauren, for many years who was “sold” after her first session with Brenda. “An expert practitioner, she navigates the blueprint of your

training, he tried to remain open and allowed Yvette to “identify”

body and mind with the precision of a skilled surgeon to find,

blockages and Brenda to “rewire” his subconscious.

and hand you, the key to self-love, acceptance and your full

“My repair was immediate, dynamic, and life-changing, for which I am enormously grateful,” says Dr Moore. The practitioners describe distance and time as “mere concepts,” so when Yvette referred Hong Kong residents, Sean and Evania, who had “tried everything and

tried, provided “immediate and life changing results”. “Whilst cliché, Yvette and Brenda have made a huge improvement to both of our lives which we never thought possible and we would highly recommend both of them,” says Evania and Sean. A curious Perth Psychologist, recently

psychologists, psychiatrists and medication were not able to. She saved my life. It’s as simple as that.” Seven years ago a desperate young female on the residential rehabilitation wait-list for addiction

had nothing to lose”, their sessions, unlike any other therapies previously

potential,” she says. “She achieved for me what an army of GPs,

to crystal meth-amphetamine, conquered a lifetime of addiction and eating disorders

with Brenda, later herself qualifying as a “An expert practitioner, she ur BodyTalk Practitioner and Nutritionist. navigates the blueprint of yo ion cis While their clients present with pre body and mind with the varied physical conditions, Brenda of a skilled surgeon to find, identifies consistencies in their underlying and hand you, the key to emotional causes. self-love, acceptance Testament to the success of their and your full relationship, built on mutual admiration and potential.” skill collaboration, after six years, Yvette and Brenda

experiencing relationship issues, gushes about an “astonishing first session with Brenda resulting in profound shifts in thinking and feeling.”

continue to join their hearts and heads together to identify then rewire subconscious blockages and optimise healing outcomes for their clients.

“Our Junior School provides challenge, opportunity and fosters a love of learning these are the key to future success at school.” TONY BANBOUKJIAN DIRECTOR OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

A Catholic School for boys in the tradition of Edmund Rice

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

waverley.nsw.edu.au

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

A great start at

INTERNATIONAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Uniq lang ue ua prog ges ram IGS offers an innovative, cosmopolitan, secular and co-educational learning environment from Preschool to Year 12, close to the University of Sydney, UTS and Notre Dame. At IGS, we offer a broad liberal and bilingual education. We believe that the teacher’s role is to honour and nurture childhood while drawing out the innate gifts of the child. Unity through Diversity is our motto, and our five core values – diversity, personal achievement, connectedness, vibrancy and authenticity – are at the heart of who we are and what we do. We are a passionate learning community – a local school with a global outlook and we are equipping our students to be world ready.

Find out more and book a tour: igssyd.nsw.edu.au | 9219 6700 admissions@igssyd.nsw.edu.au

•

Central location near Sydney CBD

•

Out of hours care

•

Exciting music and STEAM opportunities

y b a b h O YOUR ULTIMATE BABY BUYING GUIDE

Welcoming a new bundle of joy is exciting, but with so many products on the market the prospect of preparing for life with a newborn can be completely overwhelming. Fear not, Offspring has created the ultimate guide to help you sort the essentials from the gimmicks.

TIPS FOR BUYING ON A BUDGET

2 3

Tip 36

Talk to other mums about what was useful and what was useless. They may be willing to loan you items, just check the safety standards and condition.

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

Question every purchase: is it really essential? Plan ahead to take advantage of sales Buy in bulk especially nappies and wipes Borrow items Decide on the brand/ modeland then check local Buy and Sell pages, eBay and baby markets.

BEFORE YOU HIT THE SHOPS, WHAT DO YOU ACTUALLY NEED TO BUY? HERE’S A LIST OF WHAT A NEWBORN NEEDS:

Out and about Heading out with a newborn is like packing for a small camping trip and involves the biggest ticket items, so do your research to get the right equipment: ESSENTIAL  Car restraint: The car seat will be one of the most expensive items on your shopping list. It is best to buy new, as car seats have a life span, with most not made to last more than 10 years.

 To trim costs, consider a travel system with a capsule that clips onto a pram frame. It might also mean easy transfers from the car to the pram.  Baby capsules can be hired as they are quickly outgrown.  Convertible models that change from rearfacing to forward-facing will last from birth to four years and will save you the expense of buying two seats.  Pram/Stroller: The price tag on a pram can vary dramatically and there are many features and accessories on offer so set a budget and do lots of homework.  When will the pram primarily be used - exercising or leisure?  Check it is easy to fold and lift  Check it will fit in your car boot

BEAUTIFUL GIFTS FOR BABY AND BEYOND www.twentyonemoore.com

GORGEOUS ANIMAL FACE BIBS BY MISTER FLY $16.95

A BEAUTIFUL LITTLE RATTLE BY ALIMROSE, PERFECT FOR LITTLE HANDS $15.95

THIS BABY BOOK BY RHICREATIVE IS THE PERFECT KEEPSAKE $29.95

Twenty One Moore stocks a range of home, gifts, baby and kids' products and is your online destination for the little things that make your house a home. A DREAMY LITTLE BEDSPREAD BY KIP & CO $99.00

www.t wentyonemoore.com

@twentyonemoore

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

 Are you planning another baby quickly or expecting twins and require a double pram or added accessories such as a skateboard or toddler seat?  Is it important to have a reversible handle or interchangeable seat to grow and change with your baby?  Do you need a rain cover, sunshade, cup holder or storage?  Look for second hand alternatives as many mums change their minds or opt for different transport options as their baby grows. OPTIONAL

LUXURY

 A nappy bag

 Trolley cover

 Pram liner

 Breast feeding cover

 Baby carrier

 Portable cot

 Window shades

The Parenting Garden is where you’ll find innovative, practical and safe products for the whole family, all targeted to make parents lives easier! The no-fuss, quick-change solution to dry nights without stripping the bed! This unique three-product system works together to keep beds dry during toilet training and bedwetting. Made from natural sustainable products makes it anti-bacterial, hypoallergenic and odour repelling and is luxuriously soft and gentle against the skin.

Sleep needs Unfortunately, sleep isn’t for sale, but you can set up a safe and secure environment for your baby to encourage a bit of shut eye. ESSENTIAL  Cot: A cot is often one of the most expensive and difficult decisions faced by parents-to-be. All new cots have to comply with Australian safety guidelines but if you’re on a budget, ensure a second-hand cot meets current standards.

THE PARENTING GARDEN

arefully selected baby and children’s products that make parenting easier. www.theparentinggarden.com.au

TEETHING MITTENS

FETAL HEARTBEAT DOPPLER & PREGNANCY BEDWETTING & DRY NIGHT TRAINING

‘Here’s to dry beds for our sleepy heads!’

www.theparentinggarden.com.au 38

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

HEALTH & WELLNESS

CAR SAFETY

To save money consider a cot that converts into a toddler bed. But, sometimes spending money on quality will ensure it can be reused for future siblings.  Mattress:

OPTIONAL  A bassinet, Moses basket, cradle, cosy sleeper or hammock is smaller, more portable than a cot and great for those early days.  A baby monitor - to save money consider a monitor that doubles as a nightlight for those late-night feeds.

There will be many (yes, many) spills and accidents and years of use so select a good quality mattress that snugly fits your cot and invest in a waterproof mattress protector.

LUXURY  Light and music display  White noise machine  Room thermometer

 Wraps There is huge market dedicated to wraps, swaddles and sleeping bags, but they may take some trial and error to see which suits your baby. A large muslin wrap and some practice swaddling will work just as well.

 Quilts, fluffy blankets and cot bumpers

BOCKY AND MOO

country inspiration. www.bockyandmoo.com.au $27 $25

I’M TOY GEO SORTER

I’M TOY STACKING COW

INDIGO JAMM HEARTS TEA SET $40 I’M TOY GEO SORTER $27 The Geo Sorter is designed to teach children about colours, shapes and patterns.

The Hearts Tea Set is perfect for tea parties, encouraging imaginative play and hand-eye co-ordination.

$40 INDIGO JAMM HEARTS TEA SET

$22

$45 INDIGO JAMM TRACTOR TED

INDIGO JAMM TRACTOR TED $45 Tractor Ted and his animals promote hand-eye coordination, imaginative play and fine motor skills

APPLE PARK ORGANIC FARM BUDDIES $22 The Organic Farm Buddies are safe, soft and cuddly with a gentle rattle to enhance your child’s sensory development.

Bocky& Moo

APPLE PARK ORGANIC FARM BUDDIES

MEMORIES OF A FARMER’S DAUGHTER Bocky & Moo is a farm and country inspired online store, featuring wooden toys, puzzles, snuggly buddies, books, herbal teas and hot chocolates.

www.bockyandmoo.com.au sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Feeding essentials  Breast While breast milk is free there are some things you will need to make the experience easier:  Breast pads  Breast pump - consider hiring or buying a manual one  Bottle Bottles and formula can cost a pretty penny and there are so many options. Ask for recommendations and trial a couple of brands. Even if you are certain you will breast feed, you may need bottles for expressing.  Bottle brush  Drying rack OPTIONAL    

 A high chair, food processor and plastic cutlery can all wait a few months. URY  Bottle warmer  Bottle steriliser

Change time ESSENTIAL  Nappies and wipes: Cloth or disposable you will need to stock up and be prepared to use lots of them!  Toiletries: Babies don’t need lots of products on their delicate skin. But having some baby shampoo, moisturiser and nappy rash cream ready to go, is a good idea. OPTIONAL  Change table - a changing mat on top of a dresser might be a cheaper option.  Nappy bucket or nappy disposal bin  Baby bath - to save money use the sink or an adult bath with a bath support.

A feeding chair/glider Nursing pillow Burp cloths Formula dispenser

swimwear with built-in reusable swim nappies

safer materials, whole learning, and natural health

www.forbabyandup.com.au

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

LUXURY  Wipes warmer  Nappy stacker

Clothes

Tip

If you’re having a baby shower, set up a baby registry. It isn’t offensive to ask for gifts that will be appreciated and well used.

One of the best parts of preparing for a new baby is buying gorgeous teeny tiny outfits! But it is easy to go overboard and people will often gift lots of outfits.

OPTIONAL

 Scratch mittens  Shoes super cute  Going out outfits  Nappy bucket or nappy but not necessary disposal bin  Baby bath - to save money use the sink or an adult bath with a bath support

Sanity savers

ESSENTIAL

 Baby thermometer

 At least six onesies, get a mix of size 0000 and size 000 for an average-sized newborn (short-sleeved, long-sleeved, full length or a combination, depending on the season they’re due). These can double as day clothes and PJs.  Singlets or singlet suits  A jacket or cardigan  A hat (a sun hat for summer and a beanie for winter)  Socks (these can double as mittens)  Bibs

 Grooming kit

KEEP YOUR CHILD SAFE IN THE WATER!

LUXURY

 Baby proofing kit  A few rattles, teething toys and books  A bouncer, swing or activity mat for play and tummy time YOUR NEWBORN WILL NOT KNOW IF YOU PURCHASED THE MOST EXPENSIVE NAPPY BAG OR PUT THEM IN DESIGNER CLOTHES. THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOUR BABY WILL EVER NEED IS YOUR LOVE AND ATTENTION. FORTUNATELY, THAT’S FREE!

KEEP YOUR CHILD SAFE THIS SUMMER

in the water!

www.mywaterbubs.com #mywaterbubs ALL SUITS ARE $49.95 WITH FREE POSTAGE 4 GIRLS POLKA DOT FLOAT SUIT

MORE than SWIMWEAR • combines and all in one design with inbuilt, adjustable floaties • builds confidence in the water • adjust the buoyancy to suit YOUR child

GIRLS ZEBRA FLOAT SUIT

GIRLS HEARTS FLOAT SUIT AND BOYS SHARK FLOAT SUIT

GIRLS PRETTY IN PINK FLOAT SUIT

YOUR FAVORITE Shop FOR FLOAT SUIT

mywaterbubs.com Leanna 0412 161 712 mywaterbubs mywaterbubs

You really have made our swimming a whole lot more enjoyable for everyone. And since we’re in there everyday it’s been an essential item. Michelle OWNER OF THESE LITTLE WANDERERS

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

FOOD BABIES LOVE Let them eat lumps! Why textured baby food is important for babies

mily Dupuche, author of best-selling feeding guide, Food Babies Love, has created her own range of Fresh Pots to provide parents with fresh, convenient, healthy meals, just like home-made. She explains why texture was such an important part of developing the range. “While there are lots of conversations around when to start babies on solid food, there’s much less discussion about the texture of solids. Texture, introduced at the right time, is important for encouraging a life-long enjoyment of food as well as being vital for speech development.”

IT’S REAL, FRESH FOOD, WITH NO ARTIFICIAL COLOURS, FLAVOURS OR PRESERVATIVES. NOW AVAILABLE IN SELECTED WOOLWORTHS STORES AUSTRALIA-WIDE, OTHER INDEPENDENT RETAILERS AND ONLINE $5.75

Introducing lumpier food textures early (within a few weeks of introducing solids) is not only important for nutritional reasons but for speech development. When babies bite and chew they’re using the same muscles needed to TEXTURE IS form letters and words. IMPORTANT FOR Covering a variety of tastes, colours and textures to stimulate babies’ senses, Food Babies Love Fresh Pots are ideal for bubs 12 months+ and are made using only quality ingredients. You can mash them with a fork or blend for younger babies. For more information on introducing solids, visit www.foodbabieslove.com.au @foodbabieslove

foodbabieslove

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

ENCOURAGING A LIFE-LONG ENJOYMENT OF FOOD AS WELL AS BEING VITAL FOR SPEECH DEVELOPMENT.

The St John of God Mother-Baby Unit helps emotionally distressed mums become the best parents they can. Becoming a parent is a time of enormous adjustment - for many it is a time of joy but for some, it brings feelings of anxiety and depression.

he St John of God Mother-Baby Unit (MBU) in Burwood works closely with mothers struggling with postnatal anxiety and depression, to begin their journey to recovery and gain confidence caring for their baby. Partners who may also be struggling emotionally, or need guidance in how best to support the new mother and baby (up to 12 months), are very much part of the approach to care.

The MBU provides specialist care from a team of doctors, psychologists and parent craft nurses. Most mothers and their babies stay for a three-week admission and, during this time, a care plan is developed with the mother including group therapy, medication if needed, and assists with sleep and feeding issues and mother-baby bonding.

Planning for psychological care post discharge is important, and mothers can continue being seen at the clinic, and also attend the PND group programs. A GP referral letter is required for admission to the MBU. Most health insurance funds cover the cost of these programs, depending on the level of individual cover. Visit www.sjog.org.au/burwood to learn more about the Mother and Baby Unit.

Research tells us... SYMPTOMS

1in 5 women experience a mental health issue within the 1st year after child birth.1

For more information on the referral process please contact:

T: 02 9715 9200

Feeling sad, anxious, angry, lonely or hopeless Not bonding with baby Inability to cope or make decisions Sense of panic Distressing thoughts Sleep and appetite disturbances Exhaustion

TREATMENT With proper support and treatment most women recover fully. Holistic practical and psychological support from a perinatal specialist team is vital. Contact St John of God Burwood Hospital specialist inpatient and outpatient services.

1. Gavin N, Gaynes B, Lohr K, Meltzer- Brody S, Gartlehner G, & Swinson T, (2005) Perinatal depression: A systematic review of prevalence and incidence. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 106 (5, Pt. 1), 1071â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1083

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

"The Original Shopping Cart for your Pram!"

www.buggycart.com.au

Get 20% off when you enter the code “Offspring” on check out. Offer expires 31/01/18

LOVEKINS NATURAL & ORGANIC BABY RANGE

ovekins is Certified Toxic-Free, Australian Allergy Certified and supporters of the Eczema Association of Australasia - making it gentle and safe for eczema prone skin www.lovekins.com

NATURAL GOODNESS WITH LITTLE BUTTON ESSENTIALS

ittle Button Essentials is a small company with big ambitions and a Big Love for Mums, Bubs and all that is natural. Madannah Cream, unique to Little Button Essentials has been developed specifically for infants and those who have highly sensitive skin.

BABY FACE CREAM $34.95

There are four creams in the Madannah Cream range. All are 100 per cent natural, 100 per cent handmade and produced in Australia. These products all contain no gluten, dairy, soy, egg, nuts, parabens, artificial fragrances, artificial dyes, petroleum or water. More information on these products can be found at www.littlebuttonessentials.com.au

BABY BODY MOISTURISER $34.95

BABY SPF 15 SUNSCREEN $32.95 CAMEL MILK BABY SOAP $10.95

Contains Australian native superfoods Kakadu Plum & Quandong

100% Naturalﾫ

SPECIALLY FORMULATED FOR INFANTS AND BABIES FOR SOFT, SMOOTH, MOISTURISED SKIN

• 100% Australian made and owned • Our range contains unique Australian superfoods Kakadu Plum (highest source of vitamin C on earth) and Quandong to heal and protect the delicate skin of young children • Contains no harsh chemicals making it Certified Toxic-Free and Eczema safe

Madannah Cream,

unique to Little Button Essentials developed specifically for infants and those with highly sensitive skin. 100% NATURAL | 100% HANDMADE | PRODUCED IN AUSTRALIA

www.littlebuttonessentials.com.au 46

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

A UNIQUE MATERNITY SERVICE

ater Maternity prides itself on providing exceptional care before, during and after birth. With a long history in the provision of maternity services, the Mater has been delivering babies since 1906 and today delivers an average of 2,500 babies every year. As a not-for-profit hospital, the Mater’s focus is first and foremost on the patient. The Mater’s reputation is for high quality, supportive care for every mother-to-be. Parents feel respected and empowered at all times – from preparation for birth and parenting classes, delivery of their baby and the first wonderful days with their new baby, through to planning their discharge and follow-up phone calls. The Mater’s Obstetricians are amongst Sydney’s leading and most respected practitioners, who have all undergone a rigorous process of assessment prior to gaining admitting privileges to the Mater Hospital. There are many aspects of Mater Maternity that create a unique service, from

full room service, high tea, luxury family suites, partners able to stay in every room and the world-class Special Care Nursery with a full time neonatologist. But it is the integrated collaborative team of Obstetricians, experienced and committed midwives, lactation experts, maternity social workers and discharge planners all working together with a focus on complete care and supporting new parents and their babies that make the Mater truly special.

matermaternity for the best start in life Private room guarantee – plus partners can stay in every room! Or, if you want a little more room, our spacious Family Rooms include a double bed and all partner meals.

Only hospital to provide full Room Service in NSW

Meals can be ordered at a time that allows for antenatal classes, visitors or just having that much needed afternoon nap.

25 Rocklands Road, North Sydney NSW 2060 www.matermaternity.com.au

Maternity High Tea

Every Monday and Friday afternoon, High Tea brings new parents and grandparents together to welcome their baby into the world.

World Class Special Care Nursery

The only one of its kind in Australia, our Level 2 SCN has 16 individual rooms, and the only private hospital to have a full time neonatologist.

Pre-admission Midwife Appointment

A free, personal appointment to support the emotional well-being of new parents.

Maternity Tours – 2pm every Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday No need to book, just meet us in the Hospital Foyer. Tours in Mandarin start at 2:00pm 6th January 2018, then the ﬁrst Saturday of every month.

MaterMaternity

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

NATURAL SECRETS GOATS MILK PRODUCTS: FOR WONDERFULLY SOFT SKIN...NATURALLY!

HELLO SLEEP

ward Winning baby swaddle with zip down arms. www.sleepybub.com.au

f you suffer from sensitive skin or other skin conditions such as redness, inflammation and dryness, Natural Secrets has the solution! Made with Goats milk and naturally derived ingredients, Natural Secrets products are formulated to cleanse, moisturise and protect leaving skin feeling fresh and wonderfully soft. Natural Secrets Goats Milk Baby Bath is blended with calming organic lavender oil and chamomile designed to soothe baby’s delicate skin. Natural Secrets is proudly Australian made and owned. Use Special Code BABY30 for 30% off Natural Secrets Goats milk Baby Bath online at www.naturalsecrets.com.au

OUR NATURAL SECRETS... THE BEST INGREDIENTS NATURE HAS TO OFFER

Goodbye messy blankets and Houdini Arms. Hello sleep!

The Sleepy Bub swaddles lightweight, stretchy fabric allows baby enough movement to sleep in the recommended ‘hands-to-heart’ position, yet is restrictive enough to reduce waking from startle reflex.

Available Online

www.sleepybub.com.au

naturalsecrets.com.au 48

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

STYLISH AND SAFE - FOR MUM AND BABY

orgeous range of designs and colours - fun and bright or scandi style neutral www.eiress.com.au

IDABEE TRIPLE T PERSONALISED $34.90

MATCHING SET FOR MUM AND BABY

EIRESS FAMKE $30.90

PERSONALISED TRIPLE T TEETHER $34.90 JUVEL SOOTHER HOLDER $37.90

EIRESS KOVE $27.90

IDABEE ELLIPSE STAS MARBLE $24.90 IDABEE HEKSAGON $17.90

EIRESS || IdaBee Stylish and safe for mum and baby Natural and fun teething relief When baby’s teeth start on their journey to emerge, you want the best and safest teething toy for her. Our teethers are certified safe - made with soft, squishy silicone for perfect pressure on their sore gums, while also being fun and stimulating to look at and great for sensory skills. It will quickly become a favourite - and a must-have wherever you go with the little one!

Shop our bestsellers

NATURAL RELIEF | NON TOXIC | BPA-FREE

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Check out our full range of products,including certified safe wooden rattles and soother holders, as well as stylish baby friendly silicone jewellery for mamma.

BECOME A VIP TODAY!

Take 10% off all personalised products with code OFFSPRING Use at check out to redeem. Not available with any other coupon code. Valid until May 2018.

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sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

This year’s

Christmas is approaching fast! These crowd-pleasing gifts are sure to put a smile on the faces of your nearest and dearest. From your tiny tot to your partner, our Christmas Gift Guide has you covered this festive season.

Baby

made easy $14.9 9

Fisher-Price Beat Bo Junior - With bright lights, playful tunes and silly dance moves, this cute product is perfect for keeping the little ones entertained. l Available at Target, Kmart, Big W, Myer, TRU and fisher-price.com

Buying for bub is lots of fun, but there are so many options out there. This year, get them something that will keep them entertained and stimulate their growing brains.

$10 Musical Clacker Keys. Every parent knows kids are memorised by jingly, jangly keys. One key is a teether; one is fun to clack and the third has a button for sounds and music. l Available at Target.

Toddler

$54.99 Fisher-Price Zebra Walker - The FisherPrice Learn with Me Zebra is a designed to encourage those exciting first steps. The zebra is also full of hands-on activities for sitting babies. It has everything from the alphabet to songs and phrases to help with language development. l Available at Kmart, Big W, Target, Myer, TRU and fisher-price.com

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

Best Christmas Present Ever 2017. A beautiful $32.95 bub is the best gift of all, so deck your gorgeous new bundle in this cute-as-pie little number. l Available at uniquebabyboutique.com.au

$14

9.95 Little Belle night lights These beautiful night lights will provide a comforting glow for little ones at night – and will be a gorgeous feature in your child’s room. Made with hand-painted brush strokes, each of the night lights are inspired by the imagination of young children. l Available at little-belle.com

Toddler

Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Servin’ Up Food Truck - Playing shop and restaurant is something kids have loved doing for generations. l Available at Target, Big W, Myer, TRU and fisher-price.com [6].

Beginner Jigsaw Puzzle - These cute and personalised 6-piece jigsaws are are made from quality material, high resolution colour, and have cleargloss coating so these puzzles will last. l Available at tinyme.com.au

9 $149.9

$23 Crocodile Creek Play Ball - Balls are a great way to have fun with your toddler and help them learn motor skills.

$14

9.9 5

2.9 $1

Fisher-Price Zoom ‘n Crawl Monster - This is a fun toy for sit-and-play. This toy also helps with language with 15 phrases and fun songs. l Available at Target, Big W, Myer, TRU and fisher-price.com

$49.99

BRIO – My First Take Along Set - This brightly coloured play bag is filled with the first tracks in an expandable magnetic train set. It’s perfect to take along when you’re travelling or visiting. l Both are available at Childsmart, childsmart.com.au

Globber grows with your child

Why buy 3 different products when you can get a pushchair, ride-on & scooter all-in-one?

T 12-36m 20kg max.

12-36m 20kg max.

3Y+ 50kg max.

ooter mode Sc

nm de-o od Ri

hchair mod us

Our award-winning EVO 4-IN-1 offers pushchair, ride-on and scooter mode all-in-one, suitable for all children 12 months to 6+ years. Thanks to its screw-less design, it’s super easy to change between modes. www.globber.com.au

he Globber EVO 4-IN-1 will grow with your child and adapt as they develop. Offering pushchair, ride-on and scooter modes, parents will love the clever convertible for its value and longlasting usage. Suitable from 12 months to 6+ years, the steering lock helps kids learn to balance and it’s easy to change between modes transforming into the ultimate adventure scooter. $160 from www.globber.com.au.

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Kids age 3-5

Cotton On Kids - There is always a good excuse to get dressed up during the festive season, and your kids are no exception! We love the sparkly Iris Tulle Dress ($39.95) matched with the Amalfi Jelly Sandal ($16.95). And imagine how dapper your little boy will look in the Kenny Polo ($16.95). l A range of adorable party wear is available from Cotton On Kids, cottonon. com/AU/cottononkids/

Perfect gifts for the fun, energetic 3-5-year-old that will come in handy during the Summer holidays.

$69

4.9 $2

Star of the Unicorn Bike A bike is a timeless gift your child can grow with. l Available at Kmart.

PURPOSIT IS THE MUST-HAVE APP FOR PARENTS THIS CHRISTMAS. AND ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FREE! Designed by parents for parents, the app helps you manage events like Christmas, and share gift ideas for your kids, so friends and family can chip in.

reate an event, add gifts, send invitations and see who contributed. Send thank you cards and post photos for friends to comment on. A gift can be anything: bicycle, trampoline, swimming classes, movie tickets, camping trip, etc. You can also start raising funds for future gifts like travel or Uni. Help relatives and friends who are unsure what to get or live abroad. Purposit is here to make Christmas gifting simpler and more rewarding for everyone involved. Free to download, sign up and use. Available on App Store and Google Play www.purposit.com

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

Crocodile Creek Bear and Friends Floor Puzzle All the Crocodile Creek floor puzzles have a slightly-recessed lid that makes the storage box easy for little fingers to open. l Available at childsmart.com.au

Mokuru - The latest wooden toy from Japan, designed to test your balance and concentration skills. It’s as simple as tipping the wooden piece over gently letting it flip and catching it between your fingers. l Available at Kmart

The Elf on the Shelf - The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition is a magical story, explains how Santa’s scout elves help him manage his naughty or nice list. Each beautifully-illustrated children’s hardback book comes as a part of a keepsake boxed set including one of Santa’s scout elves, whose job is to watch the kids during the day and report to Santa every night. l Available from booksellers including Myer, Dymocks and independent stores.

$14.95

Kids age 6-9+

Crocodile Creek Tritan Drink Bottle in Jungle Jamboree, Backyard Friends and HedgehogA fun gift and something that you can take into the new school year! These coordinate with other Crocodile Creek products such as the Crocodile Creek Backyard Friends Backpack - $29.95 (no store/website details)

Glimmies - Glimmies are collectable star fairies that magically light up in the dark. They make a cute little stocking gift for the little ones. l Available at shop.funtastic.com.au

Young kids can sometimes be difficult to buy for because their favourites can change so suddenly, but if you know something they love, finding necessities like clothes and school supplies that they will get excited about will be easy.

.99 $7

Kmart so slime DIY slime factory kit - Keep your child occupied for hours by helping them create their own toys.

$29

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S GIFT WISHES COME TRUE Purposit™ is an easy-to-use and secure app where parents invite friends to chip in for meaningful gifts for their kids on birthdays, Christmas etc.

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Globber My TOO FIX UP- (Limited-edition Globber My TOO Fix Up Titanium neon blue and neon pink available for) A scooter is a fantastic gift choice to get the kids out into the fresh air and sunshine. The kids will love the choices of the cool colour $140 combos of this scooter and how comfortable it is to ride (featuring three adjustable height positions). Parents will love that this scooter has a reinforced fixed structure and can handle up to 100kg – finally, something that is built to be as tough as your kids! l Available at globber.com.au

Super Brain Putty - The kids are going to love this putty! They can bounce it, stretch it and create with it (and the best part for parents is it doesn’t dry out). l Available at Kmart

$120

$49.95

$39.95

JBL - JR300 Junior Headphones - JBL - JR300BT Bluetooth. Wireless Junior Headphones - RRP 69.95 JBL Junior Headphone - If you have a music enthusiast, they will love these wireless headphones, which can connection up to 15 metres away and have easy-to-operate controls.

Spin to Sing - If your child is a fan of The Voice or The X Factor, they will love this fun sing-along game. An app uses music from your smart phone, and there is a 5 star judging system and jeopardy cards to add a hilarious twist. l Available from childsmart.com.au

$39 .95

Bored with ordinary items and looking for something special for your little ones?

KIDS BACKPACK

HUGDOLL - SEATBELT DOLL

PERSONALISED KIDS CAP

CUSTOMISED KIDS PARTY BANNER

CHECK OUT OUR ONLINE STORE www.phawinkc.com 54

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

@phawinkc

Kids age 6-9+

Simon & Schuster Dork Diaries Box Set, 10 books Encourage your child to develop their reading skills with this hilariously entertaining series. This is a popular book series that your child will devour. l Available at Kmart

$49

Springfree Trampoline Designed with your child’s safety in mind, this trampoline will provide hours of bouncy outdoor fun. Boasting over 15 years of research and development, Springfree advances and exceeds safety standards, while also encouraging kids to get outside and get active. This is suitable for a range of ages and both girls and boys. It is a perfect gift if you have more than one child, or for your child and their friends, because the kids can all enjoy it together. l Available at springfreetrampoline.com.au

HOW TO

Smiggle products are great gifts because they are cute and customisable, and they might even get kids excited about school with their range of learning supplies. Some great picks this season are: DIY Hardtop Pencil Case - $22.95 Smiggle’s hardtop pencil case, Smiggle Studio Art - $34.95 and Smiggle Gift Pack - $16.95

Avoid travel nightmares with children…

Travel activities for kids can be tricky – airline regulations need to be factored in to avoid watching your child’s favourite travel activity (and hard-earned $$) be confiscated by airport security. Big bundles of toys packed tightly into cars for road trips take up valuable space and end up lost under seats or on the freeway and of course an electronic device is only as good as the amount of charge you can retain…

What you need is something that can be packed quickly and easily, is scissor-free, doesn’t take up too much room and still offers enjoyment, learning and fun. This is where Shapeeze® can be the perfect travel option - easy to carry and store plus fully self-contained. With no sharp implements they are ideal options for aeroplane travel or for those children unused to manipulating scissors unsupervised.

shapeeze.com.au

Shapeeze is specifically designed to allow your child the opportunity to press-out, paste and colour-in independently, because remember - it’s not just your children who’re on holiday – you are too!

ENTER THE CODE: OFFSUM for a 15% discount off of your total purchase, (valid until 31 May 18). sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Mums & Dads “The focus of Christmas is often on the kids, but it’s a fun family holiday for mum and dad too. Here’s some thoughtful 6 8 . 5 ideas for the grown-ups!” $17gift

Duchess Necklace by Merci Maman The Duchess of Cambridge was spotted wearing the Merci Maman necklace. Since then, mothers all around the world are copying her look! This gorgeous necklace makes the perfect personalised gift for Mum this Christmas.

Money Box Robot Gift Once you’ve pampered your loved ones with all the fruity treats inside, this colourful character turns into a moneybox – save some pennies and donate to a great cause. thebodyshop.com.au

This stylish personalised phone holder, with an adjoining change dish or key bowl, is a lovely wooden gift for keeping everything together when Dad walks through the front door. l All available at giftslessordinary.com.au

Voucher Code :

OFFSPRING12

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

$40

$84.44 Personalised Ladies Watch and Ring Stand by MijMoj Design - This beautifully handcrafted solid oak ladies ring and watch stand, can be personalised with a special message to your Mum. This is a gift she is sure to adore this Christmas.

Personalised Soft Leather Travel Gift Set by STOW - Stow’s best-selling jewellery case is combined with two charming trinket boxes. Make it even more special with beautiful monogramming; creating a beautiful bespoke gift. l All available at giftslessordinary.com.au

5 0.7 $81

Mums & Dads

0 $6 The Finest Facial Mask Duo - Let your loved one get stuck into the multimasking trend with this beautifully presented Expert Facial Mask gift set.

Emergency Dad Jokes Mug - We all groan; but who couldn’t secretly love a classic ‘Dad’ joke? With this mug, he’ll always have a joke ready to go (even before his morning coffee kicks in). l Available at hardtofind.com.au

$29

$45.71

$24.95

Matcha Maiden - A nourishing blend of matcha that is filled with antioxidants to keep everyone in your home feeling their best. l Available at matchamaiden.com

0 $3

Personalised Square Photo Compact Mirror by Bombus - A personalised photo compact pocket mirror makes a thoughtful Christmas gift for Mum. Choose your favourite photo of you both and engrave it with a special message.

White Musk Small Gift Set Introduce your mum to the fragrance sweetened with notes of pear, for a deliciously fruity layer that fits effortlessly with the iconic floral blend with this gorgeously presented gift set. l Purchasing these gifts from thebodyshop.com.au helps support the Peace Play Project. Find out more at thebodyshop. com.au/play-for-peace

Almond Milk & Honey Festive Picks - Filled with a glorious collection of bath and body treats, specially formulated for dry and sensitive skin, this selection is a perfect present for under the tree, which also features, a ‘free the rabbit’ maze game.

$35

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sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

World first for child’s sunscreen Solar Buddies is the world’s first child friendly sunscreen applicator, designed by two mums Kelli Aspland and Laura Griffin, from South Wales in the UK.

elli, a mum of four and Laura, a mum of three came up with idea of the Solar Buddies due to their children struggling with conventional bottles of sunscreen when it came to applying at school. They wanted their children to be able to apply sunscreen easily, with less mess and in a controlled manner; with this in mind, the Solar Buddies was created. Both Kelli and Laura loved the design and how easy it is to now apply sunscreen themselves to their children and how easy it is for their children to use independently whilst in school. Kelli says, “It is such an easy and transportable product, we absolutely love it and it has made a huge difference in all our lives.”

“Knowing our children were protected while at school is a big concern for us … Solar Buddies is a great little tool to let them get into the habit of reapplying and making a really difficult task sometimes a little more fun.”

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

Laura says, “Knowing our children were protected while at school is a big concern for us and we needed to make our children understand how important this task is and we don’t like to rely on oncea-day creams, so we find the Solar Buddies is a great little tool to let them get into the habit of reapplying and making a really difficult task sometimes a little more fun.”

Family fun in NSW! BY COLLEEN WILLIS

Whether it’s a weekend you want or a few weeks, NSW has it all.

ho doesn’t dream of some time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life? From the beautiful beaches to the Snowy Mountains

NSW has it covered!

SNOWY MOUNTAINS

The Snowy Mountains have long been a favourite for snow enthusiasts and is perfect for summer and winter. Highlights include Summer • Hiking

• Horse riding

• Water sports - kayaking, canoeing, sailing, boating,

fishing, swimming • Cycling

• Kosciusko National Park

Winter • The annual Peak Festival which celebrates the opening of

the ski season at Perisher (normally early June) • Cross Country Ski Week for all levels (normally early

August)

• Skiing and Snowboarding

• Kosciusko National Park

• Snowball fights!

For more information visit

www.snowymountains.com.au www.peakfestival.com.au www.offspringmagazine.com.au

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

PERISHER Perisher is a great snow spot for families because it caters to the new and experienced as well as the young and old. Perisher has a fantastic Snowsports School which offers lessons to all levels and starts as young as three years old.

Accommodation The first step is deciding where you want to stay! The most popular style of family accommodation is a self-contained apartment, however, there are plenty of other styles to choose from as well. For more information visit • Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains - www.rydges.com

ILLAWARRA FLY TREETOP ADVENTURES

• The Salzburg Apartments - www.marritzsalzburg.com.au

This is a great activity for the whole family. Its beautiful views take in the rainforest canopy, Lake Illawarra and the South

Getting there

Pacific Ocean. A big bonus is that it’s both pram and wheelchair

Cooma is the largest town in the region and is approximately 400km from

accessible. It’s located approximately 1.5 hours south of Sydney

Sydney. Jindabyne is closest to Kosciusko National Park and is roughly

so could even be a day trip.

465km away, and Perisher, Thredbo and Charlotte Pass are close to it..

For more information visit www.illawarrafly.com.au

For more information visit www.perisher.com.au

JERVIS BAY

SOUTH COAST

Known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters and national

The South Coast sure is home to spectacular scenery and exciting

parks, it’s also famous for its dolphins and whales. There are

activities.

80-120 dolphins in Jervis Bay all year round, which gives you plenty of opportunity to see them. The whale season is from

Highlights include • Kiama Blowhole

• Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk

June to October and truly is a magnificent sight to see.

• Minnamurra Rainforest

• Mogo Zoo

For more information visit www.jervisbaytourism.com.au

• Batemans Bay

• Jervis Bay

• Beach fun

www.dolphinwatch.com.au | www.jervisbaywhales.com.au

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www.offspringmagazine.com.au

MOGO ZOO Mogo Zoo is home to rare and endangered species from around the globe. The kids could be ‘Keeper for the Day!’ For more information visit www.mogozoo.com.au

Accommodation Batemans Bay is a good spot to base yourself in if you want to stay in one spot. From backpackers to luxury, there is plenty to choose from. • Big4 Batemans Bay Beach Resort (cabins, caravans

and camping) • Chalet Swisse Spa at Surf Beach Retreat

Getting there Follow the Grand Pacific Drive and take your time. Batemans Bay is about 280km from Sydney. For more information visit www.batemansbay.com.au

www.visitnsw.com | www.grandpacificdrive.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY

Most of us love a good winery and Hunter Valley doesn’t disappoint! With roughly 150 wine producers and breweries a plenty, you’re bound to come across one you like! However, there are some that are more family-friendly than others and include children’s menus, playgrounds and large grassy areas for the kids to enjoy. This then allows the adults to get onto the serious business of eating and drinking!

Potential is given. Ideas are nurtured. Places now open for girls for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten commencing 2018. Welcoming girls in Year 3 from 2019 and for Year 7 girls from 2020. Visit our website for more information or to book a tour.

www.barker.college

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Getting there The tourist route T33 is a lovely drive. Another option is taking the train. For more information visit www.huntervalleyvisitorcentre.com.

au/wine/child-friendly-wineries

THE BLUE MOUNTAINS

The Blue Mountains has a lovely laid back feel and is perfect for a quick getaway. Highlights include • Leuralla Toy & Railway Museum NSW

• Jenolan Caves

• Hop on Hop off Trolley Tours

• The Three Sisters

• Megalong Valley Heritage Farm

• Horse Riding

Highlights include • Ballooning

Accommodation

• Horse riding

• Owls Cottage Katoomba

• Extreme Go Karting

• Jenolan Caravan Park

• McGuian Cellars

• Emirates One & Only (luxury)

• Hunter Valley Gardens Aqua Golf & Putt Put • Drayton’s Family Wines

Getting there

• Gundog Hunter Cellar and Gourmet Pantry

Glenbrook is roughly 75km away and the Jenolan Caves are nearly 200km so driving is the most practical option. However, the train or

Accommodation

bus is also another way.

• Potters Hotel, Brewery and Resort

For more information visit www.bluemts.com.au

• Bellbird Cottages and Swallows Homestead (pets welcome here)

www.stayz.com.au/accommodation/nsw/blue-mountains

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

TARONGA WESTERN PLAINS ZOO DUBBO

Accommodation

For something a bit different why not stay a night at the zoo? For many

The Mantra Quayside

families, this is a one-off opportunity to get up close and personal to the

Apartments are suitable

animals while creating magical family memories.

for families with a central location

Accommodation

and well-sized

• Billabong Camp • Zoofari Lodge • Savannah Cabins

apartments.

For more information visit

Other spots

www.taronga.org.au/taronga-western-plains-zoo

include: • Mantra Observatory Resort

Getting there

• Marina Holiday Park

Dubbo is an hour’s flight from Sydney or you can drive, train or bus it. The

For more information visit www.port-macquarie.net/

distance from Sydney to Dubbo is just under 400km.

www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au | www.pmobs.org.au

For more information visit www.dubbotourism.com.au

Getting there

PORT MACQUARIE

Port Macquarie is still close enough to Sydney for a quick trip, or you

The distance from Sydney is approximately 380km so no need to rush. Flying is with Qantas and Virgin.

could make this a stopover on your way up north. Highlights include • Whale watching (June to October)

COFFS HARBOUR

How can you not enjoy a place that is home to The Big Banana??

• Water fun - swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking,

Coffs is a great spot to break your journey if you’re on a road trip

• Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park

from Sydney.

• Timbertown Heritage Theme Park (on 87 acres of natural forest!)

For something a little different, why not visit the Observatory? Imagine

Other highlights include • Dolphin Marine Magic Show

what the kids will be thinking when they look through the telescope! It’s

• Helicopter Scenic Flights

open on Sunday and Wednesday nights throughout the year.

• Sky Diving • Water fun

Discover a world of creative wonder in 2018 thejoan.com.au

French COURSES FOR KIDS & TEENS

WITH ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE DE SYDNEY

TERM & SCHOOL HOLIDAY COURSES OFFERED FOR CHILDREN AGED 4 & UP

www.afsydney.com.au SYDNEY CBD | CHATSWOOD

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Helpful driving tips • Make sure you have plenty of water with you

• Don’t get low on petrol • Keep mobiles charged

• Keep first aid kits topped up and carry essential medication

• Tell someone your itinerary, especially if travelling

to isolated areas.

For more information visit

www.visitnsw.com/destinations/nsw/transport Highlights include

Accommodation

• Macadamia Castle - Knockrow

We stayed at the Breakfree Anuka Beach resort and loved it.

• Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens – Mullumbimby

The water slide was a big hit in our family! Other options are:

• Art

• Ballooning

• Smugglers on the Beach

• Hang gliding

• Fun water activities

• Park Beach Holiday Park

• Aqualuna Beach Resort For more information visit www.coffscoast.com.au

Accommodation • Lennox Beach Resort (baby-sitting services for a fee)

Getting there

• Ballina Lakeside Holiday Park

By road the distance is approximately 540km, so allow enough time

For more information visit

if not stopping on the way. From Port Macquarie it is roughly 150km.

www.visitbyronbay.com | www.byronbayaccom.net

Flying is with Qantas, Virgin or Tiger Air.

Getting there

BYRON BAY

Being 800kms from Sydney there are a few options to consider

Byron Bay is such a melting pot of people and ideas and it’s a good

- driving is one of them, as is also the train and flying. Flying into

spot to base yourself.

Ballina is with Jetstar, Virgin and Rex.

Join the TK DANCE STARS family today Call Miss Tamara on 0478 964 722 107 Ramsgate Road, Ramsgate NSW 2217 www.tkdancestars.net 64

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

Ideal family holidays to relax, enjoy and explore Holiday Haven Tourist Parks is your ideal family holiday destination offering superb beach, river and lakefront locations along the stunning Shoalhaven South Coast of NSW, just a convenient two to three-hour drive from Sydney or Canberra.

ll Holiday Haven Tourist Parks are in close proximity to waterways and

national parks, which means the whole family can explore a variety of bushwalking

All parks have a variety of on-site

trails, enjoy more than 100 unspoilt

recreational facilities to keep the

beaches, pristine coastline or splash out

family entertained with swimming

with many water adventures such as surfing,

pools, splash pads, jumping pillows,

fishing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding,

playgrounds, climbing spiders,

rock hopping, beach combing and canoeing.

outdoor chess sets, mini golf and

Holiday Haven offers a range of

school holiday activities including animal farmyards, face

accommodation options to suit all families, including relaxing

painting, movie nights, fishing competitions, pizza nights plus

on powered camping sites, enjoy luxury camping with your own

much more fun filled activities.

private ensuite facilities, glamping in safari tents or fully self-

There is something for the whole family to Relax. Enjoy.

contained 1, 2, 3 bedroom cabins with ensuite bathrooms, kitchen

Explore……….

facilities, TV/DVD, A/C, BBQ and decks with water views.

www.holidayhaven.com.au

holiday in our best locations … Holiday Haven Tourist Parks. South Coast NSW

Follow your dreams and discover the magic of our superb river, lake and beach locations on the South Coast of NSW, just 2–3 hours’ drive from Sydney or Canberra. Our Parks offer… • Fully self-contained cabins

• Kids’ playgrounds

• Holiday activities

• Powered sites

• Kids under 5 stay free

• Jumping pillows

• Powered ensuite sites

• Camp Kitchens

• Mini golf

• Large RV sites

• Swimming pools / splash pads

• Wifi access

Kangaroo Valley Shoalhaven Heads Culburra Beach Currarong Beachside Huskisson White Sands Huskisson Beach Swan Lake Bendalong Point Lake Conjola Entrance Ulladulla Headland Burrill Lake Lake Tabourie

1300 559 977 1300 782 222 1300 733 026 1300 555 515 1300 733 028 1300 733 027 1300 555 517 1300 733 025 1300 133 395 1300 733 021 1300 555 525 1300 559 966

(Note: not all facilities available at all parks. Please check with individual parks upon booking)

Relax. Enjoy. Explore. holidayhaven.com.au www.offspringmagazine.com.au

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Luxury glamping for the family Their expansive 5-metre bell tents have room for the whole family.

here really is no better way to enjoy the NSW South Coast than

to immerse yourself in the spectacular

enjoy the traditional camping experience

natural surroundings this region is

with roll out swag mattresses and

famous for.

marshmallows for toasting.

The only problem - the kids want to

The best part is, there’s no set up and no

camp under the stars, but you’d prefer 5 star luxury? Well there’s no need to compromise any more… Pitch South Coast have everyone covered! Their luxury glamping (glamorous camping) tents are everything you’ve been dreaming of and more. Their expansive 5-metre bell tents have room for the whole family. With a full queen-sized bed (no air beds

pack up, you just simply turn up! The team

The team at Pitch South Coast offers glamping for the whole family – no setup required!

here!), luxurious linen and a pillow top mattress,

at Pitch South Coast will do all the hard work for you, giving you more time to relax and explore the wonders the South Coast has on offer. Offering services up and down the South Coast you’re free to choose a family favourite location or have the team suggest one for you. And if this all sounds a little too perfect to bring the kids, opt for a romantic South Coast

getaway to reconnect and recharge!

you’ll feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud. The kids can

Visit www.pitchsouthcoast.com.au

Camp in luxury on the spectacular South Coast. With breathtaking beaches, turquoise bays and tranquil rainforests, the South Coast is bursting with unforgettable experiences for your next family holiday. Imagine arriving to a beautifully styled bell tent and simply leaving when your holiday is done.

LUXU RY G L A M P I N G & M A R Q U EE H I R E

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

pitchsouthcoast.com.au www.offspringmagazine.com.au

Reflections Holiday Parks F

rom majestic stretches of unspoilt coastline on the south and north coasts, to the best kept inland

secrets, their parks offer pristine, natural environments located on

waterfront campsites with the luxury of amenities nearby. If you

Crown Land. Whether you’re wanting to simply relax, reboot and

want to go camping and don’t want to be sharing your tent with

take it all in, or get out and create your own adventures, Reflections

the wildlife or a deflated mattress, their Beach Tents offer that

Holiday Parks have the perfect places to fuel you and your family.

‘glamping’ experience.

Formerly operating as North Coast Holiday Parks, South Coast

Care for their parks and visitors is what makes all the

Holiday Parks and Inland Waters Holiday Parks, Reflections

difference. Reflections Holiday Parks reinvest back into their

Holiday Parks are uniquely located on some of the most iconic

parks, public reserves, recreational areas and local communities

sites in Australia.

ensuring their well-being is maintained and sites are preserved.

Reflections Holiday Parks have a range of cabins with varying layouts, occupancy sizes and creature comforts, as well as For the campers, there are powered and unpowered

1: Unforgettable experiences When you reflect on your past, it’s not just the moment you remember, but the emotion: the joy, fun and excitement or the calm and serene. A perfect destination is one that lets you experience all this and more. Imagine relaxing ocean side, exploring stunning bushland, or kayaking across pristine waterways. Just thinking about it lets the stress drift away. There’s something to be said for the feeling of sand between your toes or cool grass under your feet. The quiet moments of a sunset and the mesmerising trance of a camp fire. You deserve to treat yourself and the family to an experience they’ll cherish for life.

but also ensure they are kept pristine for other travellers to come. To learn more or to plan your next getaway visit www.

powered caravan and RV sites.

As children, we’d play among nature everyday. But it’s not until we’re older that we truly understand how beautiful, calming and invigorating it can be.

By doing this, they not only make their locations better to live in

reflectionsholidayparks.com.au

best kept inland secrets. This lavish, natural beauty is only possible on Holiday Parks located on Crown land. You’ll discover pristine landscapes as individual as you. The perfect place to fuel your wanderlust!

a holiday should always be a holiday. Choose from luxury or basic cabins, or caravan and camping grounds with powered or unpowered sites.

3: For family, friends & the furry ones

What goes around comes around, and unlike other holiday destinations we actively invest back into our parks and the surrounding reserves.

You may like travelling solo or holidaying with family and friends. Our parks are the perfect place to share memories and reconnect with your tribe. From friends who love extremeadventuring or simply letting small feet explore the beauty of nature. Reflections Holiday Parks are for everybody, including the four-legged members of the family. Twenty-four of our parks welcome pets, making it easy for the whole family to share the experience.

4: Accommodation options

2: Locations as magic as the experience

Campers come in all shapes, sizes and levels of enthusiasm. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or highly experienced, we have accommodation that suits.

Reflections Holiday Parks are uniquely located on some of the most iconic sites in Australia. From magic stretches of unspoilt coast, to the

Maybe you like the idea of being close to nature but still desire the creature comforts of air conditioning or a bit of glamping! That’s fine,

www.offspringmagazine.com.au

5: We give back to communities

This helps to ensure that our natural and community spaces are preserved and maintained for generations to come and wonderful for visitors now. As you unwind, remember that funds raised from your stay go back into caring for and re-developing local parks and surrounds. Your break reinvigorates both you and the environment.

reflectionsholidayparks.com.au

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Malolo Magic BY KATE DURACK

Stepping off a boat onto Malolo Island, greeted by local staff adorning us with shell necklaces and a Welcome acoustic harmony, set the tone for a fulfilling, relaxing and authentically Fijian island holiday.

hands-on. It wasn’t just a babysitting club. Children’s activities included an excursion in a glass-bottom boat to identify fish and coral; fossicking for shells to make bracelets; and finding flowers in the native bush to make a lei. The accommodation was exceptional – deluxe beach cottages, each with ocean views, hammocks, comfortable beds and furnishings,

alolo Island is a dream.

and all the trimming of a Five Star hotel –

It is isolated from the hubbub, noise

meticulous - without the crowds or frenzy.

and energy of daily living, and is an

There is no WiFi, TV or any electrical devices

ideal destination for families wanting to

spend time together, relax and enjoy a little indulgence. I visited Malolo recently with my nine-year-old daughter and six-year-old son. While many single parents feel daunted by a trip overseas with young children, we experienced peace, tranquillity and an opening of our senses.

in the chalets, but it is available in the communal areas. After an initial “horror” moment, we quickly melded into this way of life. We really had space and time to just Be, Together. There is also an adults-only area, which offers movies, books and a quiet comfort area, as well as a child-free pool. I also enjoyed a wonderful massage at Leilani’s Spa.

Malolo is tropical paradise. Unspoilt and sublime - native rainforest and sapphire, pristine waters.

We feasted on fresh local fruit and seafood, as well as the usual western fare, but in gourmet style – even the burgers and chips were

The resort offered many activities to keep the kids entertained; their Kids Club was unlike others; Daily

- healthy buffet for the children

educational programs were run by a highly trained

or al a carte, and romantic dining

and experienced educator. We could opt for morning,

options for the adults.

afternoon and/or evening sets that were engaging and

delicious! The menu was spot-on

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

Children’s included an es iti tiv ac assexcursion in a gl entify id to at bo bottom ssicking for fish and coral; fo bracelets; shells to make wers in flo and finding sh to bu e tiv the na make a lei.

We snorkelled off the boat into pristine, sapphire waters, admiring the vibrant colours of the tropical fish and intricate, vivid coral, and washed up onto the shores of Castaway Island.

A highlight of our stay was a personal boat trip to the infamous island which was the setting for Tom Hanks’ blockbuster movie, Castaway.

We snorkelled off the boat into the warm, clear waters - no need for wetsuits or towels - admiring the vibrant colours of the colourful fish and intricate, vivid coral, and crawled onto the shores of this unspoilt island. It was a unique experience. Our guide took us on a tour, climbing a coconut palm and shared the flavours of the different coconut types. When we’d finished frolicking about on the powder white sand, we donned our fins and and swam back to the boat to enjoy a tasty breakfast made just for us – juicy, local fruits, Danish pastries, fresh juice and coffee. Another highpoint was an island tour with a local Fijian man who explained the healing properties of the native plants: and learnt how the Noni can help cure mouth and gum infections, TB, sprain, rheumatism and stomach ulcers and hypertension, headaches, fever and malaria; the Beach Mahogany can treat cuts, burns, sunburn, insect bites, scabies, and eye problems. Malolo Island was really a very special place to stay as

Getting there: South Sea Cruises, the most popular and affordable mode of transport to the island, travels there three times a day.

a family and somewhere I’d like to revisit soon.

BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL NOW!

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eady Steady Go Kids covers 10 great sports: Soccer, Tennis, Hockey, Rugby, T-Ball, Athletics, Basketball, Golf, AFL and Cricket with a gross motor focus. All classes are indoors, with small class ratios and loads of FUN! The program is structured and progressive so it keeps your child learning new developmental skills in every class. Ready Steady Go Kids was voted as the Best National PreSchooler Activity in 2015, 2016 and 2017 in the Whatson4kids awards, so why not book yourself a FREE TRIAL and see what all of the fuss is about! www.readysteadygokids.com.au

sydney | summer 2018 | Offspring

Glamping in style on

Cockatoo Island Cockatoo Island was a wonderful find – a local adventure for my family.

BY KATE DURACK

Credit - Geoff Magee

Credit - Zakarij Kacmarek

et in the middle of Sydney Harbour, Cockatoo Island is easy to visit with frequent ferries, yet

feels removed from a city environment. Surprisingly, it was a relaxing

family room and and a small outdoor deck. Waterfront. The beds were comfortable and everything had been

and tranquil environment, as well

thought of including an esky, lamp, snug, holiday chairs

as a unique experience in which we

and tables.

learnt about the Island’s rich heritage,

There is also a cinema experience and opportunity to

having been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, for

toast marshmallows by a campfire in traditional camping style.

its important place in Australia’s colonial development involving

While this was all great fun, I really relished the stay in their

aboriginal, convicts and World War II history. There were fun things to do as a family, including tennis, giant chess and a fascinating audio tour of the Island’s heritage. But, probably the best part for us was glamping! We hadn’t been camping before (mainly due to my lack of practical resources to make it happen!), so this option was so convenient and enjoyable. We got cosy in a spacious and kit-out tent, which comprised two

separate bedrooms, a

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

1916-colonial style apartments. These were so romantic, maintained in sync with the colonial style, yet offered all the conveniences I have become used to – heating and fans, a modern kitchen, TV, lovely BBQ, deck and patio area and loads of space! Cockatoo Island frequently offers events and exhibitions. For more information visit www.cockatooisland.gov.au/events

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Shop Online at www.betweentheflags.com.au or Visit Our Store Shop 2 Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach, NSW 2026

Radisson Blu Resort Fiji was voted 2017 Numbe r1 Fiji Resort for families on Trip Advisor.

Fiji paradise at

Radisson Blu STAYING AT RADISSON BLU RESORT FIJI DENARAU ISLAND IS AN IDEAL PLACE TO HOLIDAY FOR FAMILIES.

BY KATE DURACK

n occasion, I’ve taken my kids on a holiday, with Instagram ideals in mind - tropical sunsets, cocktails, reading a magazine by a sparking pool, and feasting on delicious food I haven’t had to cook – but the reality has

been far different - think stress and hassle. Holidays with kids can sometimes be tiresome, especially when traveling with them alone, as I do. A five and a nine-year-old have lots of energy! However, this is why I loved staying at Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island. I had a holiday

children. The kids went rock climbing, built and raced boats and had sandcastle competitions. The hotel has six restaurants and the food was

too – it was self contained and

delicious. The buffet breakfasts and dinners were

very relaxing. And, being English

very good value and the kids didn’t want to leave

speaking and less than a four-hour

the hotel to eat.

flight from Sydney made it easy to visit with children. The resort was beachfront and superb. It was voted 2017 Number 1 Fiji Resort for families on Trip Advisor. Many water activities were offered at the beach and the pool. The kids and I really enjoyed the water aerobics and water volleyball sessions, as well as our own fitness session whereby we challenged

I was impressed by the Radisson Blu’s sponsorship program, where they support 14 schools with educational tools such as technology, books, stationary and sporting equipment. The hotel offers weekly tours of the schools, which was a highlight of our trip – a great educational experience and exercise in an Appreciation. We gave a full suitcase of new books to the school we visited

the five-year-old to swim unassisted to the Swim Up Bar, where they

which seemed to be valued. Their reading resources are minimal

indulged in a slushie, and me, a Pina Colada.

compared to what our schools and homes offer.

The pool was excellent – sandy and lots of variety, including interesting little streams, waterfalls and a water slide. We stayed in a One-Bedroom

On the way back to the hotel, we alighted the bus in the district’s main area, Nadi, where we roamed around the markets, before catching a public bus back to the resort.

Suite close to the beach, which was

This offered a great insight into perhaps a

supremely comfortable, spacious and

more authentic Fiji, which further enriched

fully self-contained (handy as Fiji can be

our holiday experience.

expensive). The Blue Banana Kids Club was 74

fantastic - the Fijian people are wonderful with

Offspring | summer 2018 | sydney

Radisson Blu Resort Fiji is a wonderful place to take young families.

Fiji's No.1 Family Resort

TREAT YOUR FAMILY TO A HOLIDAY IN PARADISE. SPLASH AWAY IN ONE OF FOUR TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED POOLS, INCLUDING A WHITEWATER TUNNEL SLIDE. RELAX AND ENJOY 'FIJI TIME' WHILE YOUR CHILDREN ARE SAFELY ENTERTAINED BY THE BLU BANANA KIDS CLUB.

Create family memories stay. play. relax.

+679 675 6677 | reservations@radissonfiji.com | radissonblu.com/en/resort-fiji PLEASE ENQUIRE Â FOR BEST AVAILABLE RATES

Nature never felt so good Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re preserving 37 of the best coastal and inland reserves so your family can recharge the way nature intended. Relax at a camping spot, caravan site or cabin just right for you. Experience a break youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll all remember for a lifetime.

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