Families Magazine - Brisbane June/July 2015 Winter Days Out & Children's Parties

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Issue 10: June/July 2015 www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

From North Lakes to Redland Bay and everywhere in between

WINTER DAYS OUT &

Children’s Parties Best Brisbane Parks for Kids Parties

Family Friendly Restaurants Body Image for Girls and much more…

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Check inside to find your prize.

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Issue 10 June/July 2015

Contents Welcome to our ‘Winter Days Out and Children’s Parties’ issue I love this time of the year. The days get cooler yet we are still blessed with mostly sunshine and warmth in Brisbane. We are looking down the barrel of the June/July school holidays and with the weather being cooler it is easier to be outside with the kids without the scorching sun driving us to seek air-conditioning. In this issue we have sought out some awesome things to do with your kids during the cooler months. We've got 6 pages dedicated to #FamiliesMagFun - things to do with your kids over June & July including a day trips feature with 5 places that are a little further afield but definitely worth the drive. We’ve chosen our favourite 5 for this issue but our website is packed with many, many more. Jump on our website www.familiesmagazine.com.au and search for ‘day trips’ for loads of inspiration.

We’ve also rounded up all the local ‘Children’s Parties’ businesses to help you make the most of your next celebration. From party products and services to entertainers to party venues… we’ve got you covered when you are starting to plan for the ‘big day’ (pages 17 -19). Whether you are an outsourcing parent or one who likes to ‘do it yourself’ there is something here for everyone. Don’t miss the article on the best Brisbane parks for themed parties (page 16 ) either – it’s a handy reference for Brisbane mums and dads!

We hope you enjoy this issue – feel free to write to me directly at any time Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au, feel free to join the conversations on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram and do drop in to our Pinterest boards to see what’s new. We run competitions on our Facebook page every Friday night at 9pm, so we hope to see you there soon!

Families Magazine Brisbane – for everyone in every family.

Janine Janine - Editor

Life loves to be taken by the lapel and told: 'I'm with you kid. Let's go.'

– Maya Angelou

CONTACT US: Families Magazine – Brisbane, P O Box 1018, Brighton 4017 07 3265 5738 Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

4-5

Families News

6- 8

Education

Find out what is happening in and

around Brisbane

9-15

Can’t Do Maths?

Upcoming Open Days

Parenting & Families Health

Making Friends

Body Image & Girls

16-19 Children’s Parties Everything you need to help you create

a special day for your ‘someone special’.

20-25 Families Winter Fun 5 Day Trips, school holiday fun

and much much more…

Cover image courtesy of Lanchester Photography 0404 041 043 www.lanchesterphotography.com

Next issue: August/September 2015 – Deadline: Monday 29 June 2015

Focus on BRISBANE SCHOOLS & EDUCATION Readership 75,000 every issue. Published 6 times a year. For families in Brisbane, Redlands, Logan and the Moreton Region. © Families Magazine 2015.

Families Magazine – Brisbane is audited by the Audited Media Association of Australia; CAB giving you assurance that our claims to distribution & readership are accurate.

Printed by Inprint an Enviromentally Certified Company

This product is sourced from wellmanaged forests and other controlled sources.

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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Families News

BRISBANE FAMILIES NEWS

Looking for the latest news and views in Brisbane? We've got it covered!

Rebecca tops the Class of 2014 Inspirational 17-year-old Rebecca Marshall has proven that the gift of education is the best present an adolescent can receive. The Loreto College Coorparoo graduate blitzed the field of Queensland’s top academic performers, attaining the highest result of 28,500 Year 12 students on the 2014 Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test. Rebecca was recognised for her outstanding achievement at the inaugural Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) Achievement Awards ceremony on Saturday 28 February. Rebecca credits her parents, her school, Loreto College, and her peers as the secret behind her success. Rebecca has commenced a Bachelor of Science majoring in Bio Medicine at the University of Queensland and has received guaranteed provisional entry into the Medicine program. Rebecca was also the recipient of a UQ Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship, valued at $60,000 over five years.

Congratulations Rebecca from all of us at Families Magazine – Brisbane.

Loreto is holding their Open Day on Sunday 9 August 2015. 3394 9999 www.loreto.qld.edu.au

Did you know? You can book ahead and park ALL DAY for $5?

Secure Parking has partnered with Families Magazine – Brisbane to offer our readers an exclusive further discount when parking in the City, South Bank, Fortitude Valley and Surfers Paradise. Simply visit their website and use the code FAMMAG15 when you secure a parking spot to receive the discount! We recommend you use this offer for the Broadbeach Country Music Festival (see page 23), Snow4Kids event at South Bank (see page 24), Pirate’s Week at the Maritime Museum (see page 24) and Story Lab at the State Library (see page 24) and other #FamiliesMagFun events!

Visit our website to download your free voucher: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/vouchers

Little BIG DASH is back with 10 Fun Obstacles Over 3 kms!

Sanitarium has announced that the super successful, super fun obstacle adventure full of colour, fun and guaranteed laughs for families is back! Little BIG DASH, will return to Brisbane on Sunday 26 July 2015. Parent-child teams of two to six members will now explore ten colourful obstacle stages together, dancing through the Donut Dash, dodging the Big Blob Balls, navigating through the Bubble Blast and tackling the giant

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

Rumble Tumble Tower, and a new inflatable Footy Frenzy stage, to name a few.

The bonding experience is enjoyed and valued by parents and kids and finish smiling with elation from so much fun.

Every ‘Dasher’ will receive official Little BIG DASH merchandise items, including an official Little BIG DASH cap (received at check-in), and a shirt for the handprint memento (received at the Hand Stand). Children aged between 5 and 15 years old can be entered by their parent. There will be prizes for dressing up – so we encourage all ‘Dashers’ to find some fun and quirky matching outfits to wear!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to share a fun-filled adventure with your family! Register today at www.littlebigdash.com.au (and visit Families Magazine’s Facebook page and website to find out how to WIN free tickets!)

Families News

Local Children’s Entertainers The Kangagang win Prestigious Award!

After weeks of deliberation by more than 40 judges across Australia and internationally The Kangagang from Woodhill Qld has won the 2015 Qld Music Awards - Children's Genre with their song ‘Hungry Crocodile Chomp’.

The song is written and composed by Carolyn Simpson the creator of The Kangagang and her partner Darren Munro is singing lead vocals.

With 2 song's nominated as finalist Hungry Crocodile Chomp and Clarence the Cockatoo The Kangagang is now on their way to becoming the next Big act in Children's entertainment .

Also they were highly commended for another 2 song's entered Dinky's Thong's and The Wombat Wobble.

You can visit www.qldmusicawards.com.au website to listen to the Award winning song.

Find the Lucky ‘Golden Ticket’ – Willy Wonka Style Somewhere across Brisbane in our June/ July 2015 issues of Families Magazine – Brisbane we have carefully inserted 5, 000 lucky ‘Golden Tickets’ between the pages.

Check this magazine carefully… it may fall out onto your feet! If you are lucky enough to find one, you will gain automatic 2 for 1 entry into Bay Play in Cleveland.

You should also visit our website www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ competitions and pop your name down to go into the second chance draw for another great prize… check it out now!

Operation WANTED

Do your bit. De-sex your pet!

Called Operation WANTED the campaign will see 150 vets reducing their de-sexing fees by at least 20% for a period of three months. There is a massive pet over- population issue all over Australia. To give you an example, a five person household would need to own 30 cats and ten dogs to keep up with the over population.

The advantages to having your pet de-sexed are enormous and include: no risk of unwanted litters, reducing desire to roam, reducing risk of some cancers, reducing other unwanted behaviours such as urine spraying (cats), cheaper local council registration fees and allowing pets to be healthier and happier.

Apart from the financial and responsible pet ownership incentives to persuade people to de-sex, there are some terrific prizes up for grabs as well. Two Harley Davidson motorcycles can be won and two prize vouchers worth $500 for the RSPCA World for Pets online store.

For more information and to find out which vets are participating you can go to www.operationwanted.com.au and follow the links.

North Stradbroke Island Caravan $75 Special Stradbroke Ferries are offering a great deal for families - $75 each way for your standard vehicle and your caravan or camper trailer travels for FREE. Caravans, camper trailers and boat trailers are all eligible, however there are some conditions.

Your outward and return travel must be for Monday - Thursday only and you must travel on 12pm, 2pm and 4pm ex Cleveland and 1pm, 3pm and 5pm ex Dunwich. These are for phone bookings only, must be paid in full at time of booking. It is also subject to availability.Valid from 4.5.15 – 27.8.15, blackout dates apply www.stradbrokeferries.com.au/specialoffers 07 3488 5300

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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Education

Why Learning to Speak in Public is Important

Don’t shout… just speak out!

T

o be able to persuade others subtly is a great skill. How many famous speeches would not have had the same impact if they had not been delivered with emphasis, well-timed pauses and variations in pace and inflections? How many ideas would not have been germinated if the speakers had not the skill to persuade a family member, business, country that their concept was worthwhile?

online news develop into a habit, allowing them to hold opinions on significant world events and issues.

Anyone can have an opinion but not everyone can communicate opinions clearly, succinctly and persuasively. Participation in Public Speaking Clubs encourages our young people to present arguments rationally and effectively, to involve themselves in current affairs and to develop skills in verbal and non-verbal communication.

In schools our teachers are working with our children to help them deliver ‘oral presentations’ – from ‘show and tell’ in Prep to debating in secondary school, learning to speak in public is an important part of the curriculum. Teachers are helping our children deliver more than a monologue of stories or facts.

While the title suggests the emphasis is on ‘speaking’, participants appreciate how to structure arguments, research topics, prioritise points and think critically. At the same time, they learn what is important in world news. Viewing current affairs programs, reading papers and

However, if our young people cannot express these opinions convincingly, then these worthwhile thoughts and ideas are lost to others. Sharing ideas and points and of view promotes discussion and expands the thoughts of others.

To be able to hold a pause, gaze around the room and vary volume also requires confidence.

Just as swimmers will not improve if they do not complete their daily number of laps, speakers will not improve if they do not speak in front of an audience!

Public Speaking presents an opportunity for participants to hone skills. They have the opportunity for personal feedback as well the opportunity to listen to others, for as the name suggests, our speeches are for the public, not our own company.

In life, one never knows when one will be asked to present at work, make a speech at a wedding or thank a co-worker. Speaking in public confidently and being conscious of how to structure arguments rationally, choose words carefully and appear comfortable is a most valuable asset.

Training students to speak in public produces young adults who are proud to speak out!

By Rosemary O’Neill Loreto College Coorparoo Teacher of Drama, English, Religion and Public Speaking Coordinator

As an audience is not always readily available,

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07 3265 5738 Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

Education How to Prepare for Maths Exams

Can’t Do Maths?

Time in a school term slips by incredibly quickly.

Before you know it, you are only a few weeks out from the first assessment period. Experience tells us though that many students don’t actually know how to prepare for a Maths exam.

There are some ‘Golden Rules’ which are included below, but studying for Maths essentially requires students to develop several study habits which empower them to learn Mathematics.

The teacher can only teach Mathematics, and that is only half of the equation.

The learner has to actively engage in the process. When we get to preparing for exams, the process boils down to students …

First in a 3 part series to help parents and kids be better at maths!

correctly. You may end up with pages of work completed, where you have actually been practicing and reinforcing something that is incorrect!

6. Identify questions you get wrong or can’t respond to, and do something about them. Either rework the question to find your error or get some help (this is impossible however without an organised notebook).

7. Allocate specific time in your weekly schedule for Maths study (and do the same thing with study time for all of your other subjects). Be it fitness, sports training, music or study, constant repetition and practice is the key.

8. Enforce the self-discipline to actually follow the weekly study schedule!

It is the sessions that you do when you don’t want to do them that make the difference.

9. Create topic summaries. The strongest learning is that which you do on your own. One way to think about what to include in a topic summary is to imagine creating a cheat sheet. If you were going to sneak a sheet of paper in to an exam (not that you would of course!) that had essential ‘cheat’ information on it, what would you put on it? This is your topic summary!

10. Don’t multi-task with your study time. Your brain focusses on what is immediately relevant; that is, what is going on around it at any given time. If your attention is constantly taken away from the task in hand, then you are not focussing your brain on the study.

Knowing exactly what it is that they need to know (a unit or topic plan) Knowing what they know out of what needs to be known, and…

Knowing what they don’t know out of what needs to be known!

Out of all of the Golden Rules, completing set questions is the most powerful, so set aside the time, switch off the phone, the video/computer games, Facebook and any other distractions, and get into it!

The topic plan and the learning materials come from the teacher. Working out what you do and don’t know is the largely the job of the learner, and the Golden Rules for exam preparation listed here are study behaviours to help achieve this.

Stephen Andrews, Head of Faculty – Mathematics, Cannon Hill Anglican College

1. Work your hardest during class time! You will be amazed at the difference that efficient and consistent effort in class throughout the whole term will make to your assessment readiness.

2. Maintain an organised notebook/set of notes and practice questions.

You can’t get help if you can’t find what you need help with.

3. Answer as many set questions as you can. There is a direct correlation between the number of practice or consolidation questions answered, and performance on Maths assessment items. Any question answered independently by a student is effectively an exam rehearsal, where required knowledge is recalled and procedures are enacted. Repetition creates memory.

4. For each type of question responded to, set the response out in a way that communicates the required steps and thinking. Actually writing these steps every time will reinforce concepts and procedures in memory. Again, repetition creates memory.

5. Check your answers! You would be amazed at the number of students who complete Maths questions and then don’t check to see if they have answered the question correctly. Students can’t assess what they know and what they don’t know, if they are not confirming whether they are answering questions

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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Education School Open Days List

For prospective students and parents

To promote Your 2015 School Open Day in the next issue (August/September 2015) contact our Editor.

Email: Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Tel: 3265 5738 Please check the details of the events listed before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

Australian Trade College (Redcliffe) Co-ed Senior School Year 11&12. Focussing on Trades. Tue 21 Jul www.tradecollege.com.au Brigidine College (Indooroopilly) Catholic Secondary Girls' School. Visitation Days Mon 3 & Tue 4 Aug, Mon 26 & Tues 27 Oct www.brigidine.qld.edu.au Brisbane Christian College (Salisbury) Co-ed Pre-prep-Yr 12. Thu 11 Jun 6-8pm, Thu 3 Sep 9-11am, Thu 5 Nov 9-11am www.brisbanechristiancollege. com.au Brisbane Girls Grammar School (Brisbane) Girls' Secondary School. Fri 31 Jul 4 - 8pm www.bggs.qld.edu.au Calvary Christian College (Carbrook Campus) Co-ed Childcare-Yr 12. Tue 16 Jun 5pm, Fri 31 Jul 9am www.calvarycc.qld.edu.au Calvary Christian College (Springwood Campus) Prep-Yr 6. Thu 30 Jul 9am www.calvarycc.qld.edu.au Cannon Hill Anglican College (Cannon Hill) Co-ed Yr 4-Yr 12. Fri 31 Jul www.chac.qld.edu.au Clairvaux MacKillop College (Mount Gravatt) Catholic Co-ed Yr7-12. Window Day Fri 5 Jun 9-10.30am www.cvxmck.edu.au Grace Lutheran College (Rothwell & Caboolture) Co-ed Secondary College. Sun 18 Oct www.glc.qld.edu.au Hillbrook Anglican School (Enoggera) Co-ed Secondary School. Thu 6 Aug 10am-2pm www.hillbrook.qld.edu.au Living Faith Lutheran Primary School (Murrumba Downs) Co-ed Prep-Yr 6. Sat 5 Sept www.livingfaith.qld.edu.au Loreto College (Coorparoo) Catholic Girls' Secondary College. Sun 9 Aug 10am www.loreto.qld.edu.au Lourdes Hill College (Hawthorne) Catholic Girls' Secondary School. Fri 9 Oct 3.30-7pm www.lhc.qld.edu.au Moreton Bay Boys College (Manly West) Boys' College Prep-Yr 12. Fri 28 Aug 9-12pm www.mbbc.qld.edu.au Moreton Bay College (Manly West) Girls' College Prep-Yr 12. Fri 13 Mar, Fri 21 Aug 9-12pm www.mbc.qld.edu.au Ormiston College (Ormiston) Co-ed Prep - Year 12. Sat 15 Aug 10am-2pm www.ormiston.qld.edu.au Our Lady's College (Annerley) Catholic Girls' College Yr 7-Yr 12. Fri 31 Jul 9-11am www.ourladyscollege.qld.edu.au Southern Cross Catholic College (Scarborough) Catholic co-ed Prep-Yr 12. Sun 26 Jul 10am-1pm www.sccc.qld.edu.au St Eugene College (Burpengary) Catholic Co-ed College Prep-Yr 12. Tue 2 Jun, Tue 4 Aug, Tue 1 Sep, Tue 3 Nov all 9-11 am www.steugene.qld.edu.au St James College (Brisbane) Catholic Co-ed Secondary College. Fri 31 Jul www.stjamescollege.com.au St Paul's School (Bald Hills) Anglican co-ed Prep-Yr 12. Thu 11 Jun 4pm, Sat 27 Jun 9am, Wed 29 Jul 9am www.stpauls.qld.edu.au St Rita's College (Clayfield) Catholic Girls' College Yr 7-Yr 12. Sun 26 Jul 10-2pm www.stritas.qld.edu.au

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

Fostering Your heart, their home

A

re you and your family looking to become more involved in your local community? Have you been considering something that will involve all the family but have no idea where to start? If so, then this article may be just what you’re looking for and will perhaps set you on the road for an exciting and rewarding challenge.

There is a very real need for foster carers across Queensland to care for children and young people who are unable to live at home, particularly within the south east/south west corner of the State and more caring families are required to meet this need. Yet, it seems that many families or individuals do not know if what they are able to offer is indeed wanted or relevant. So let’s dispel a few myths about foster caring and set a few facts down for the record!

Although foster carers come from all walks of life; they have varied life experiences and relationships; single or in partnerships; working or stayat-home, one thing they have in common is a commitment to assist some of the most vulnerable children and young people in Queensland.

Here are a few questions that might help you decide if now is the right time for you to care for someone else’s child:

Parenting

Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services having a solid network of dependable folk around you is essential.

And do you enjoy team work? Foster carers are crucial members of

the care team around a child so knowing that you can contribute to that team can be fulfilling.

Above all else, is yours an inclusive family that could offer a nurturing home to a child or young person while their own family is assisted to resolve challenges? The uniqueness of your family means that what you have to offer could be just what is being sought for a child or young person, maybe for a few days, even weeks or longer.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a foster carer why not contact Mercy Community Services at www.family.mercycs.org.au You never know what your family might contribute and whose lives you might touch as a result!

By Sue Russell, Team Leader, Foster and Kinship Care Program Mercy Community Services

Do you have the time to be a foster carer? Some foster carers look

after children on a full-time basis, having taken time out of the workforce whilst caring for their own young children. However, if that’s not you, your skills might still be needed by providing weekend breaks that are fun for the child and a welcome ‘pit-stop’ for their primary carers.

Are you an empty-nester? You have the experience, the wisdom, and

the demonstrated capacity to run the course! Are you ready to share your knowledge and skills with a child or young person who needs to learn a bit more about how families work?

Are your family and friends in this with you? Although all foster

carers are supported by foster care agencies funded by the Department of

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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Parenting

Fitting In and Standing Out Making friends when you are ‘different’

W

hen children are infants, they only have an awareness of themselves. From their perspective, the world revolves around ‘me’. As children mature, an awareness of others usually develops. This generally occurs earlier with children whose cognitive development is advanced because this skill is developmental.

Sensitivity to another’s perspective and feelings forms the basis of the ability to empathise and is a critical element in establishing and maintaining friendships. Children of similar chronological age will vary significantly in their rate of development, level of awareness and sensitivity. As children develop the ability to understand how another person may be thinking or feeling, this awareness influences their behaviour towards others. A child, who has not yet developed awareness of another’s perspective, social and emotional experience, will lack understanding of the impact behaviour has upon others.

Another child of a similar age may have developed acute sensitivity to their own and others’ feelings, resulting in intense feelings that overwhelm the ability to make rapid decisions during social interactions.

It has been found that highly intelligent children tend to have perception and awareness beyond what is expected at that chronological age.

Children who are cognitively advanced can be extremely sensitive and may experience emotional overload as a result. These children, although

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

intellectually advanced, may not yet have developed the capacity to regulate their own emotions, resulting in emotional outbursts of startling intensity.

Miraca Gross, through her research at UNSW, has developed a model of the stages of friendship, based upon children’s increasing levels of cognitive complexity and expectations about social relationships. Initially, a child looks for a ‘play partner’ – a child who will share toys. Next, shared interests become the focus as a child looks for another to chat to about mutual interests. Expectations that a friend will provide help,

Parenting

“the social need to belong is one of our basic needs; requiring attention immediately after our most basic physiological and security needs are met” encouragement and support when needed characterise the third stage; however it is not until later that reciprocity, intimacy, emotional sharing, affection and bonding are seen as important aspects of friendship. There are strong correlations between a child’s level of intellectual development and a child’s more advanced concept of friendship.

The ability to empathise and respond sympathetically creates a magnetic attraction for those who need support. These are the children who listen to others’ troubles; feel the pain that others experience and are always trying to help friends and family. These might be very caring children, but frequently they lack the life experience and range of skills appropriate to provide the level of support needed. Gifted children may also become distressed when the level of emotional support that they have offered is not reciprocated by other children, without understanding that others have not yet reached the developmental level at which they are able to provide this.

Abraham Maslow, when developing his Hierarchy of Needs, identified that the social need to belong is one of our basic needs; requiring attention immediately after our most basic physiological and security needs are met. The drive for social acceptance is a very strong and basic need,

however there can be problems. It is difficult for some children to achieve social acceptance, especially in social environments where conformity is highly prized. Gifted children are, by nature and definition, different from other children. They not only think differently; they feel differently as a result of the ways in which they think. These children may speak differently, using more advanced language, abstract concepts and have a more sophisticated sense of humour. Their interests may vary from others of similar age. They may have serial obsessions about topics that do not interest others of a similar age.

Difference is not usually well accepted within children’s groups. The need to be accepted is a primary drive, causing children to succumb to intense pressure to conform – if that is what is required to gain acceptance. Gifted children can get caught in a ‘forced choice dilemma’, feeling that they have to choose between fitting in to gain social acceptance, or standing out by being different, especially through academic achievement.

Children who are in the process of developing their own identity are particularly vulnerable. It is only when children have access to others at a comparable developmental level, with similar values and aspirations that they do not feel the need to choose between fitting in and standing out. When placed with others of like mind, within environments that encourage difference and value achievement, children are able to establish friendships with true peers who accept them, for who they really are, not who they pretend to be.

Gross identified a further level of friendship, found among intellectually gifted youth, which she refers to as ‘the sure shelter’. This descriptor is taken from the verse “A faithful friend is a sure shelter; whoever finds one has found a rare treasure” (Ecclesiasticus 6:14) and refers to the emotional depth and unconditional trust found in abiding friendships. It takes cognitive awareness, emotional sensitivity, empathy and experience to achieve a sense of trust, safety and shelter within a friendship.

Michele Juratowitch, Director of Clearing Skies, provides counselling and social skills groups for gifted children. Michele was awarded a Churchill Fellowship.

She is conducting a STEAM Residential https://www. stuartholme.com/event/steam-residential/ for gifted girls in Years 5 & 6 to enable girls to participate in learning experiences with other girls of similar ability.

E: michele@clearingskies.com.au W: www.clearingskies.com.au P: 3378 0888

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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Parenting

Drop the diet chat for better body image W e all want our children to be happy and healthy as they traverse adolescence and grow into young adults. However this time of life is also a minefield of social media, model mania, diet drivel and friend pressure.

As parents, how do we guide our sons and daughters through this to give them a happy and healthy body image for now and for their future?

It’s a battle we have to start fighting because the statistics are startling. Last year close to 40% of Queensland girls aged 15 to 19 said they felt “extremely” or “very concerned” about their body image compared to only 12% of teenage boys (Mission Australia, 2014). With body dissatisfaction linked to low self-esteem and depression, as well as one of the strongest risk factors for developing an eating disorder, these numbers are sobering.

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Awareness begins before adolescence

generally have the most influence over how her child feels about their body.

Given the major physical changes taking place in the adolescent body, it is no surprise that this is when young people focus on and fret so much about their looks. Although considered an adolescent issue, body dissatisfaction and dieting awareness have actually been shown to develop in children as young as six. Around this age there is evidence that children can begin to feel concerned about their weight and shape and desire a thinner body. Thus the development of a healthy body image begins early, with the main contributors being parents, peers and the media.

Comments from a mother about her daughters weight, or even subtle attempts to encourage weight control, such as “are you sure you want to eat that?” have been revealed as a very strong predictor of body dissatisfaction in both adolescent and primary school aged girls. A little girl worships her mother and thinks she is beautiful, so it can be devastating to witness negative and demeaning comments about her mum’s body. Moreover, as many girls share the same build as their mothers, hearing these invites her to believe these are also faults in her own body.

But my mum said…

While both parents have an impact on their children’s developing body image, mothers

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

‘Fat talk’, those conversations women have discussing weight, offering compliments or speaking negatively about their own weight,

Parenting “Oh I shouldn’t eat this”; “Oh you look so good, have you lost weight”; I’m so fat but you look amazing”, is considered a powerful social norm among women and is strongly correlated with body dissatisfaction.

Friend or foe Peers are also a major factor in shaping body image. Shared beauty standards and discussions and comparisons within friendships groups play a huge role in the development of a girl’s self-image. ‘Fat talk’ can be rife among adolescents resulting in reduced self-esteem, body dissatisfaction and disordered eating.

In fact, a girl’s perception of her friend’s figure unhappiness has emerged as the strongest predictor of her own level of body dissatisfaction.

Take the gloss off media Popular media (social media, magazines, TV, music videos, ads etc.) send girls the message that their most important asset is how they look. This sort of media can also lead to body dissatisfaction and all the associated dieting and eating issues, with girls as young as nine being shown to want a thinner body after reading appearance focused magazines. Even magazines and TV targeted at children can be heavily appearance based and send negative messages.

What you can do Even if you struggle with negative body image there are things you can do to prevent this filtering down to your children.

Concentrate on your chat • Reduce or abolish any discussion about dieting or weight, whether that be your weight, your child’s weight or other peoples weight (including celebrities) • Avoid engaging in ‘fat talk’ with your friends

and family and pull your daughters and others up if you hear it from them.

• Talk about how your body works, rather than what it looks like – exercising for strength rather than weight loss.

• Praise your daughter based on her qualities, values, achievements and interests and help her to avoid equating thinness with happiness.

• Make it a house rule that fathers and siblings do not joke or tease any family member about their weight. Though said in jest these comments still sink in.

• Discourage dieting or fads, particularly when your daughter reaches adolescence. If a family member is dieting, avoid discussing it at all.

• If your daughter is overweight and in need of changes to her eating, then make this a lifestyle change for the entire family and introduce healthier food options and family exercise subtly and with minimal discussion.

Monitor the media

RESOURCES: Books For Parents • Girls will be girls: raising confident and courageous daughters (2003). JoAnne Deak & Teresa Barker • How girls thrive (2010). JoAnne Deak & Dory Adams • The butterfly effect (2009). Danielle Miller • Daughters and their Dads (2008). Bruce Robinson • Raising Girls (2013). Stephen Biddulph

Books for Teens • The girl with the butterfly tattoo: a girl’s guide to claiming her power (2012).

Danielle Miller • Girl Stuff (2007). Kaz Cooke

• Monitor your daughter’s consumption of popular media and your own, she will be aware of what you read, watch and view online too.

• As girls do not live in a bubble it’s not practical to try and ban all media, it’s more important to teach girls to critically analyse the messages they are receiving.

• Engage in discussions with your daughter about magazine headlines or beauty makeover competitions screened on kids channels

Books for Tweens • American Girl Series The care and keeping of you The care and keeping of you 2 The feelings book

Websites www.beautifulminds.com www.amightygirl.com/

Simple strategies are best and promoting habits and discussions within your household will have the best long-term effects on your child’s body image.

www.bodyimagemovement.com.au/

Mrs Jody Forbes – Psychologist – Brisbane Girls Grammar School Undertaking her Masters by Research on school based body image programs.

www.thebutterflyfoundation.org.au/ workshops-for-parents/

www.beautyredefined.net/ www.commonsensemedia.org/ www.cybersmart.gov.au/Parents.aspx

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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Family Health

for Active & Safe Play T

here has been growing concern about the decreased activity level in our children and teenagers for some time now. This decreased activity is contributing to the rising trend in our younger children and adolescents becoming overweight and obese. Exercise is essential for growth, health and general wellbeing and while there potential for injury in any activity or sport, the benefits far out way the risks.

Some of the Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise for children include: • Improved cardiovascular fitness • Development of stronger bones and muscles • Improved posture • Maintain and develop flexibility • Improved balance, co-ordination and skill development • Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight • Improved concentration and assist with relaxation • Boosting self-esteem, confidence and enhance social skills Unfortunately due to the popularity of increased screen time, research has shown that activity levels in Australian children are decreasing.

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There are now National Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines that recommend: Children younger than 2 years should have no screen time and should not be kept sedentary or inactive for more than an hour at a time, except when sleeping.

From 2- 5 years of age, children should spend less than 1 hour per day on screen time. They should be physically active for at least 3 hours every day spread throughout the day.

Young people from 5 – 17 should limit screen time for entertainment to no more than 2 hours per day. They should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity of physical activity every day. (Source: www. health.gov.au/paguidelines)

Some ideas of age appropriate activities include: Children younger than 2 years should have the opportunity to experience play based activities in a variety of environments such as on the floor, outside on the grass or in the sandpit. Age appropriate play equipment includes a baby swing, a cubby made simply by some sheets over the chairs they crawl into, climbing over some pillows or an adult; learn to swim classes, playing in a toddler pool or riding a toddler trike.

From 2-5 years of age children primarily need the opportunity to have “free play” time in the

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

backyard or park. Adults need to provide a safe environment and a variety of age appropriate objects or equipment to stimulate creativity e.g. sandpit play, a cubby house, balls of different sizes to kick and catch, a rope and some hoops, bikes and scooters. More formal activities can be considered such as attending swimming lessons, playgroup, kinder gym and tiny tots soccer. These need only comprise a part of the young child’s overall activity.

From 5 – 17 years children should be given the opportunity to experience a wide variety of sports and activities. Primary school aged children in particular should try different sports and not feel pressured to specialize in one sport too early. Opportunities for “free play” are still vital.

Evidence indicates that children are more likely to continue with a physically active lifestyle if their parents are also physically active so doing things together is important. Good role modelling has never been so important!

Visit Families Magazine’s website for over 120 local clubs, classes & activities for babies and children up to 17 years old. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/directory

Causes of Sports Injuries Participation in any activity or sport carries the potential for injury. It is also important to remember that children and adolescents are not little adults when it comes to injuries and they are more at risk for a variety of reasons:

Family Health • Children mature at different rates with different heights and weights seen at the same age. This becomes particularly relevant in contact sports.

• They are more vulnerable to shearing forces at the growth plates and tendon attachment sites on the bones which are weaker and more susceptible to injuries.

• During rapid growth spurts, bone lengthens before muscle and tendons, so periods of decreased flexibility makes them more prone to injury.

• Growth spurts also temporarily reduces co-ordination and balance affecting efficient movement patterns.

Preventing Sports Injuries Parents, teachers and coaches can help protect children from injuries by following some simple guidelines: • Use proper equipment and safety gear that is the correct size and fits the individual well.

• Choose appropriate playing surfaces and ensuring they are maintained well.

• Ensure they understand how to play the game and have adequate training sessions before games. Supervision should be provided by properly qualified adults.

• Training should be tailored to the child’s physical maturation, skill level and presentation of physical limitations including injury.

• Ensure adequate warm-up and correct

technique to minimize acute injuries and be aware that increasing the frequency, intensity or duration of training increases the likelihood of chronic injuries such as overuse injuries.

• Resistance training to increase muscle strength, power and endurance can be beneficial to pre- adolescent and adolescents but must be well planned and supervised for proper technique and focus given to a variety of muscle groups to prevent muscle imbalances and injuries. Weight lifting by children should be avoided due to the high risk of injury.

Treating Sports Injuries in Children If injury does occur or a child develops pain during or after exercise it is important the injury is correctly managed to ensure the child

can return to their sport quickly and minimize chronic issues. A physiotherapist with a special interest in paediatrics has the expertise to correctly assess, diagnose, and treat an injury in the younger athlete. They can also teach techniques to minimize the potential for injuries in addition to giving advice on injury prevention. They understand the effect of exercise and injury on a growing body and can guide children into the most suitable sport or exercise for various body types.

By Elizabeth Vetter (BPhty) Director and Julie Uhlmann (BPhty) Senior Physiotherapist Kids Care Physiotherapy, Newmarket, 4051 www.kidscarephysiotherapy.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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Party Time

R5 Tips for Park Parties P

arks are ideal locations for hosting your child’s party. Not only are they a free venue, parks can have great play equipment, space to run, catering facilities, amenities and parking. This leaves your suburban street free of congestion and your home free of mess. There are however, five key things you need to consider before hosting a park party;

idea to organise someone other than yourself to do the BBQing, it’s impossible to cook and entertain party guests simultaneously.

R Theme

RDecorating & Games

C Deciding on a theme can be really helpful when selecting the right park for your party. Many of Brisbane’s parks offer a diversity of nature walks, gardens, play and water equipment, even wildlife. You can use these to create the central theme for your child’s party from ‘Mad Hatter’, ‘African Safari’ and ‘Pirates’ to ‘Fairies’ and ‘Water Fun’.

R Facilities

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

After theming, the second most important factor is the general park facilities on offer. Are there toilets, BBQ’s, fenced areas if in close proximity to a main road, ample parking, shade, tables and seats? It’s always a good idea, if the park is unfamiliar to you, to scope out how busy the location is on the days and times you’re looking to host your party. This will give you can idea of how much additional equipment, such as chairs, picnic mats and tables, you will need to bring with you.

Plastic picnic mats are a fantastic option for clean sitting and eating space. Not only are they light to carry from the car, but easy to clean.

R Catering Due to transportation, park party food needs to be either pre-made at home or easily cooked on a BBQ. Cold finger foods such as mini sandwiches, slices, cupcakes, savoury muffins and pikelets are all great choices. For hot foods nothing beats BBQ sausages, chicken kebabs and mini meat patties with sauce. It’s also a good

If using council facilities, do yourself a favour and check the park BBQ’s are operational the day before the party. It’s much easier to organise a portable BBQ from a friend or family member the day before, rather than at the eleventh hour.

Being outdoors, there are some limitations to decorating a park party. Balloons, streamers, potted flowers for colour and table covers are generally the extent of what can be achieved.

Remember, whatever you put up, needs to be pulled down at the end.

10 BEST PARTY PARKS IN BRISBANE Adventure & Discovery themes Pine Rivers Park - Strathpine Hidden World - Fitzgibbon New Farm Park - New Farm

Garden, Princess & High Tea themes City Botanical Gardens Playground CBD

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A little breeze can also cause havoc with your table décor, sending paper plates flying and table clothes flapping. To limit the destruction, a paperweight on plates is useful and use gaffer tape to tape the tablecloth.

Depending on the park you select, games maybe completely unnecessary, with enough entertainment already provided. However, pirate treasure hunts, daisy chain making, fairy butterfly spotting and water leapfrog are easy games to add to your party list. With a few fun prizes to keep them entertained.

RWet Weather Plan

Hosting an outdoor party can be stressful if rainy weather sets in. It’s a good idea to have a pre-determined wet weather plan, before you even send out party invitations. Wet weather instructions can be included on the initial invitation or passed onto the RSVP’s. Your wet weather plan may include; cancellation of party for an alternate date or moving the party to an alternative location, an undercover area or your home. A short SMS to your RSVP mobile list, advising of location change will make everyone’s life a little less ‘teary’.

Glindemann Park – Holland Park West

Waterpark & Nautical themes Wynnum Water Park - Wynnum

Rocks Riverside Park - Seventeen Mile Rocks

Animal & Nature themes

Calamvale District Park - Calamvale

Stoneleigh Reserve Park - Waterford John Goss Reserve - Chermside

By Renee Gusa from About the Garden Magazine. Visit www.aboutthegarden. com.au for hints and tips on what to grow now, or subscribe and receive a FREE online subscription to the seasonal magazine.

Have you checked out the awesome Big W North Lakes Party Store? It's got themed party supplies for just about every occasion - it truly is something special. Check them out on Facebook - search 'Big W North Lakes Party Store'.

Fairies for All Occasions - Birthdays Weddings Christenings Corporate

Providing handmade and boutique clothing and accessories for your Princes & Princesses! www.goodfairies.com.au

goodfairies@optusnet.com.au

1300 4 FAIRIES ( 1300 432 474 ) 16

F /GoodFairies

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

Specialising in custom made items such as: tutu’s and tutu dresses skirts, dresses, nappy covers, shorts, bloomers, harem pants, hats, applique singlets and tees, hair accessories.

Special Offer quote ‘Families Magazine’ to receive 10% off your first order koochooloohandmadeforlittleone@gmail.com www.facebook.com/koochooloohandmade

D Party Time

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear… The most popular song in the world and

according to Wikipedia It has been translated into at least 18 languages! With the traditions in Australia of singing, playing games, having fun and eating cake, we've got everything you need listed here to help you plan for the next time you have to sing 'Happy Birthday to you…'

Be your own party planner - a list of products & services to help you throw the perfect party!

Click for Cakes offers a huge range of standard and Custom Cakes. 07 3277 5566 www.clickforcakes.com.au

Fancy Pants Party Stylists They strive to be budget conscious and can provide invitations, lolly bags, decorations, lolly buffets and much more, complete with party set up and dismantle. Contact them via Facebook (Fancy Pants Party Stylists) or email info@ fancypantsparties.com.au www.fancypantsparties.com.au/

Z F Aussie Jumping Castles Looking for some inflatable entertainment for your next event? It’s easy to find the perfect solution for your needs on their website. Tired of the same old party treats and tricks? Pump up the fun in your parties with their huge range of bouncing castles and party entertainment! 0466 875 366 www.aussiejumpingcastles.com Big Lolly Taking the time to prepare, matching the lollies and the decorations, making it quirky and unique. That's what makes a celebration great. www.biglolly.com.au

Brisbane Character Hire Looking for something different for your child’s special day? Why not try Brisbane Character Hire Kids Parties! They offer a service that will see your party be the envy of all your friends, with a cast of friendly hosts they offer packages that include mascots, jumping castles, cakes, face painting and more. No matter how big or small your party is they cater for it all. Why not contact them today to discuss how they can make all your child’s dreams come true. Contact Amanda on 0417451980 email brisbanecharacterhire@yahoo.com.au or like them on Facebook. www.brisbanecharacterhire.weebly.com/ Brisbane Jumping Castles have over 70 castles servicing all of the Brisbane areas. Guaranteed delivery & setup, it’s the easiest party you have ever had! With their variety of castles from Jump & Slides, Licensed Disney Castles and Adult Jumping Castles, you won’t be disappointed. 1300 586 723 www.brisbanejumpingcastles.com.au

Brisbane Party Castles They provide a professional service from setting up, cleaning and packing away their jumping castles and most importantly, ensuring a fun day is had by all. 0487 955 233 www.brisbanepartycastles.com.au

Geanii Cakes At Geanii Cakes, making your cake wishes come true, they strive to create a cake that will be a beautiful focal point at your event. Their registered council approved kitchen is based in Scarborough, north of Brisbane. They love to make beautiful custom cakes, and specialise in children’s birthday cakes, novelty significant milestones and even wedding cakes. Whether your child is a Peppa fan, superheroes, Hoot or Hootabelle, there is no cake wish Geanii Cakes can't make come true.

0410584349 www.geaniicakes.com.au Itsy Bitsy Party Hire are Brisbane based and specialise in unique and fun party furniture and accessories. They will help you create a memorable party which your guests will be talking about long after the lolly bags have been devoured! Their items are made & sourced so to inspire busy mums and dads to create fun and memorable parties for their little ones. Items such as their Sweets Canopy will ensure your event/party is one not to forget! Party hire starts from just $2.00! itsybitsypartyhire@gmail.com www.itsybitsypartyhire.com.au Laser Tag Hire & Party Supplies Their party hire service is backyard fun. The kids will be raving about what you did for their birthday party! You can rent either laser tag equipment, gaming inflatables, or both!

1800 266 587 www.lasertag.com.au My Kidz Party Buy party supplies online or let them style and plan a stress free party for you. Kidz Party Supplies, Lolly Buffets, Kidz Furniture Hire - Party Inspiration - 0411 247 714 www.facebook.com www.mykidzparty.com.au/

Party Ideas In a Box believes kids parties are fun & simple celebrations that are best enjoyed with family & friends. That is why they supply classic party games and supplies for the DIY party host. Perfect for an at-home or at-the-park 3-6 year old party, the themed games are thoughtfully created for small or large groups of children and are perfect as indoor or outdoor games. Children love the familiarity of playing their favourite party games, such as our prewrapped Pass the Parcel & Pin the Tail on the Donkey. Their Party Packs make your party organisation simple. 0407 921 920 www.party ideasinabox.com.au Sassy Kids Parties From pirates to princesses; small indoor parties to huge outdoor events; plastic dinnerware to complete chair and table ensembles; their online store have the stationery, dress-up costume accessories, toys and party props for any size, age and budget. www.sassykidsparties.com.au The Big Red Castle Company You supply the venue, food and drink, and of course the cake, and they will take care of the rest. 0466 111 380 www.bigredcastles.com.au

Party Entertainers - Call an expert to do what they do best!

Amazing Fun Parties & Events They offer to help with everything from jumping castles to entertainers, mascots, rides, food and more. They create the fun memories! www.amazingfunparties.com.au Cheeky Faces Face Paint & Balloons Unique, artistic and colourful Face Painting, by professional, reliable, experienced and insured Face Painting Artists! 0458 776 378 www.cheekyfaces.com.au Circus Dreamz Children can learn how to perform circus tricks - even the big kids if they wish! All equipment is provided for everyone to have a go. 0419 758 724 www.circusdreamz.com

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Carz Partys They come and visit you with their really cool car. They are available to be booked in 1/2 hour, 1 hour and 2 hour blocks. 0404 375 460 www.facebook.com/carzparty

Enchanted Fairy Parties Pretty Fairies, Sparkling Mermaids, Pink Princesses and Cheeky Pirates. Their entertainers are experts in dance and drama as well as personally trained by Miss Rainbow herself in their party packages. Games, dancing, balloon twisting, face-painting and magical story-telling. 0400218423 www.enchantedfairyparties.com.au continued on page 18 

4017 HAIR Family friendly hairdresser, where kids can have a play in our fenced play area, while you get your hair done.

Open 7 days and late every night

• Call 0430044706 • or find us on Facebook!

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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 continued from page 17

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Party Time

Fizzics Education Interactive hands on science parties where your children get to be the scientists! Plus they send a real scientist, science teacher or science communicator to you! 1300 856 828 www.fizzicseducation.com.au

Physikids Party Physi kids offer specialist mobile party instructors for all ages from 3 to 12 years. They tailor the party to suit your child. Football or Dance? Athletics or Gymnastics? They can do anything! 0414 559 997 www. physikids.com.au

Funky Monkeyz Krazy Zoo is the latest craze sweeping Brisbane. Kids absolutely love their giant plush ride on animals that make any party unforgettable! 07 32031712 or 0402665524 www. funkymonkeyzkrazyzoo.com.au

Peebo & Dagwood arrive at shows in their famous colourful clown car, with its Jumbo motorised Wind up Key, (resembles a Giant toy car). They perform their comedy magic show with nonstop fun & laughter from beginning to end. 07 3269 9292 www. peeboanddagwood.com.au

Geckoes Wildlife Presentations An exciting Australian wildlife experience like no other, with a host of amazing Australian animals including snakes, crocodiles, frogs, possums, owls, lizards and quolls waiting to meet you.

0432 953 797 www.geckoeswildlife.com.au Go Cart Wild Hold a "Go Kart Wild Karts in the Park Party" or let your child be the "Grand Prix Winner" in your own backyard. 3 Hours Hire, 6 Go Karts, Helmets included. 0417 432 113 www.gokartwild.com.au

Good Fairies For fabulous fairy parties, fairy face painters and balloon benders; or fairy activity programs for parties, look no further than The Fairy Specialists.

1300 432 474 or 0412 664 877 www.goodfairies.com.au/

Shine Bright Parties Fun, Magic and Entertainment for children! Pink Princess Pamper Parties age 6-12, pink Fairy Pamper Parties ages 3-5, rainbow Fairy Parties ages 3-6, face Painting for Girls and Boys, all ages.

0403090885 www.shinebrightparties.webs.com

Super Steph Magic Shows Book trusted kids birthday party magician, Super Steph, & her trained Super Kids Party Heroes! Magic Shows, Superhero, Fairy and Pirate and Princess Themed Birthdays. 0411 114 709 www. supersteph.com/

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Larrikin Puppets Their puppet characters are larger than life, bringing a sense of fantasy and whimsy to the events, which human performers can’t quite provide.

0430 086 835 www.larrikinpuppets.com.au

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Little Kickers Birthday Parties across Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Full of fun football (soccer) parties developed for boys and girls turning 3 - 7 years of age. Little Kickers parties consist of a series of fun imaginative non-ball and ball games including the ultimate penalty shoot-out. They will tailor games to your child’s age and around a party theme or your child’s interests: Animals, super heroes, fairies, monsters, pirates… whatever they love. www.littlekickers.com.au info@littlekickers.com.au

Magic Glen Do you want a stress free birthday party for your child? The fabulous, very funny, interactive magic show will keep the kids engaged and laughing for a good 45 minutes, sit back relax and enjoy watching the kids have the time of their lives. 3300 1741 www.

KidsPartyMagic.com.au Mek Jewellery Making Parties come to you and supply all the instructions, beads, tools and bits and pieces required, you just supply the creativity! 0404 859 008 www.meke.com.au

Mr Toot Entertainment Exciting & unique juggling, 'clown magic', clean humour and audience involvement makes Mr. Toot a unique and polished performer! The lovely Esther then gently paints creative and popular designs bringing smiles to each little face. 0488 828 668 www.mrtoot.com.au Old McDonald’s Farms A never to be Forgotten Nostalgic and Fun Interactive animal experience, with bottle feeding, hand feeding and brushing their adorable Farm friends, all brought in show condition for your enjoyment. 0400 278 028 www.oldmacfarms. com.au

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Ready Steady Go Kids offers a healthy way to party!

Let them take the stress out of planning and running your child's birthday party by providing an age appropriate sport and entertainment program that is fun, safe and healthy. They will supply experienced staff and all of the equipment required, giving you more of an opportunity to enjoy the special day. What could be easier? 1300 766 892 www.readysteadygokids.com.au

Suze Wild Design’s artists are insured and Blue Carded.

They paint the favourite designs (butterfly and batman) and a swathe of modern designs as well (Pikachu and Peppa Pig). They also take requests. Kids love them!

Facebook : Suze Wild Design Mobile: 0405063547 The Fun Fairies Parties Their parties provide plenty of entertainment for both boys and girls of all ages including dancing, singing, fun party games and face painting. 0458 954 349 www.thefunfairies.com

The Hire Engine offers children a unique and exciting birthday party experience. Aspiring fire fighters across Brisbane and the Gold Coast will take delight in squirting the fire hose and riding in an authentic fire truck! 0439 090 304 www.thehireengine.com.au

Wildcall Wildlife Shows travels with a collection of Australian native animals and each party is delivered by one of our qualified and experienced animal handlers.

0403 713 452 www.wildcall.com.au

Party Venues - enjoy the party at a local venue and leave the tidying up to them!

AMF Bowling (Various Locations) Kids birthday parties are easy when you have a dedicated party host to manage the day. Grown ups get to sit near-by as their wonderful hosts usher the kids from the bowling lanes to their seating area to enjoy a meal provided by them and open their presents in an area all to themselves.

The food packages available vary and can cater to an array of tastes. www.amfbowling.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

Bay Play (Cleveland) "Play safe, Eat well, Laugh loud" is not just the tag line of Bay Play Cleveland but also the strong belief that through these everyday fundamentals being instilled in a child’s life, better developmental needs can be met. Through interactive play and movement, Bay Play Cleveland sets out to achieve holistic wellbeing for children, allowing parents to also participate in all forms of play with their child and promotes education of healthy choice of activity, interaction and nutrition. 07 3821 7772 www. bayplaycleveland.com.au/ Be Bop A Licious (Petrie) BeBopalicious is a retro ice-cream parlour and cake shop on Dayboro road at Petrie. Staff dress in fifty’s gear and the whole space is hot pink. It can cater for up to thirty dudes or babes and offers quirky high tea parties. (07) 3285 8855 www. facebook.com/BeBopALicious Bim Bam Boom (Graceville) No Mess and No Fuss for mum and dad!! Leave it to them to make your child’s birthday party creative!! 07 3278 3788 www. bimbamboom.com.au Binxie’s (Ashgrove) can now host your child’s next birthday party! They offer several choices of parties, such as games, art & craft, or even a High Tea. They also have a Party and Toy Shop. 07 3366 8834 www.binxies. com.au Bounce Inc (Tingalpa) Kids will literally jump for joy when you book a party at BOUNCE. From the Free Jump arena, to the Big Bag, Slamdunk and Dodgeball courts, it's a next-level party playground for kids who want to experiencee a truly radical birthday. Guests get a private party room, catering and their own party host to supervise activities and make sure everyone has a great time. 1300 000540 www.bounceinc.com.au/ locations/tingalpa

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Party Time

Inflatable World (Toombul, Victoria Point, Wynnum) It's all about having fun, so bring the whole family and bounce on in to Inflatable World. It's not just for the kids - we encourage the parents to have fun with their children. They have different party options to suit your needs and budget. www.inflatableworldoz.com.au/

Bricks n Fun (Capalaba) They cater for all your LEGO needs. For Birthday Parties you have exclusive use of the Buildroom and eating area for 2 hours. 07 3390 1288 www.bricksnfun.com.au

Jump In For Fun (Salisbury) Your Birthday will go off with the biggest BANG at Jump In 4 Fun in Brisbane no matter the theme you want – just tell them what your interests and birthday party ideas are and they will work some FUN majix to help you bring it together! 07 3277 7202 www.jumpin4fun.com.au

Crank Indoor Rock Climbing (Macgregor) The largest indoor kids climbing area in Brisbane. Great for your next kid’s party (5yrs+). Filled with colourful creative fun climbs, a cargo net, a slackline and a mini caving tunnel. At $20 for 2 hours (min.10 kids) it is great value (no climbing experience is necessary). For the older kids there are after school classes in both rock climbing and Parkour. With the best instructors in Brisbane they will be trained safety to overcome any obstacle. Book Now brisbaneclimbing@gmail.com Carnival (Bulimba) Carnival Parties offers your child a unique, themed party, which includes an art and craft activity as well as traditional, party games and fun.

Carnival Parties can also come to you! 07 3399 8840 www.carnivalparties.com.au

Chipmunks Playland & Café (Various) No fuss, no clean up and guaranteed fun, Chipmunks is the perfect birthday party venue for boys and girls aged between 0 – 11 years of age. www.chipmunks.com.au

Just Jump Trampoline Park & Indoor Play Centre (Redbank) 90 minutes including 1hr jumping plus Free Indoor Play including Rock Climbing Wall - including your own party host who'll organise some games & activities. 07 3437 8588 www.justjumpqld.com.au Kb Equine Centre (Cedar Creek) Kb Equine Centre offers onsite pony parties to celebrate your child’s Birthday. 0412 336 861 www.kbequinecentre.com King Country (Thornlands) Specialise in awesome Parties for children up to 10 ys. Farm animals for patting and feeding. 07 3206 4051 www.kingcountry.com.au Laserforce (Woolloongabba) Laserforce situated at 55 Ipswich Road, Woolloongabba is an extremely popular birthday party venue offering a variety of packages to suit you and your budget. Visit their website for Packages, Prices, Holiday Specials, Kids Days, Party Nights and other offers. 07 3891 1031 www.laserforce. com.au

Ramp Attak (Geebung) They offer something different and the kids just love it! BYO party food or grab some food and drinks from the kiosk. 07 3265 6185 www. rampattak.com.au Rocksports Indoor Climbing (Fortitude Valley & Shailer Park) The Rocksports Birthday Party has become the 'best party I’ve ever had' to a generation of boys and girls of all ages throughout Brisbane. 07 3216 0462 www.rocksports.com.au Rowdy Rascals (Jindalee) 'Fairies', 'Space' or 'Theme-ItYourself' rooms, a Rowdy Rascal's birthday party is the ultimate in kiddie fun and parental salvation. 07 3162 0790 www.rowdyrascals.com.au

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Flipside Circus (Alderley) It is the day on the calendar year that you will hear about regularly – “My Birthday.”

Take the stress and guess work out of how to make that day special with a Flipside Circus Birthday Party! They have a weather proof venue that they welcome you to make your own and decorate as well as fully equipped circus trainers that are professionals at keeping a group of young, active children entertained, engaged and happy. www.flipsidecircus.org.au

Funkee Monkees Café & Play Centre (Coopers Plains) Cater for up to 30 children. They allow 2 hours per party and they have flexible party food options. 07 3216 6822 www.funkeemonkees.com.au Game On Family Fun Centre (North Lakes) Take the hassle, cooking and cleaning out of your child’s birthday party and relax with your guests as they attend to your child and give them an exciting party to remember for many years to come! 07 3014 0322 www.gameonfamilyfuncentre.com.au Golf Central (Brisbane Airport) It’s party time at Golf Central! Celebrate your child’s birthday and make their day the party event of the year! Let them do all the work as you relax and enjoy a variety of packages and menus that are sure to cater for any party guests age, skill or special requirements. 07 3087 7800 www.golfcentralbne.com.au

Gymboree Play and Music (Various) 100% fun, 0% cleanup. For 1st to 5th birthdays, enjoy an action packed play party, a playful music party or a creative art party. You choose the theme. They provide exclusive facility use and a specialist teacher. Let them make your party unforgettable. www.gymboree.com.au

Laserzone (Lawnton) Easy, low-fuss and great value.

From the time you arrive to the time you leave, your party will be busy enjoying the centre and having the time of their lives. All you need to do is book, organise a cake, and get the kids to Laserzone on the day! 07 3205 4141 www.brisbane.laserzone.com.au Lollipop's Playland & Café (Various) Rain, hail or shine they offer a safe, secure Play Centre where kids can have hours of fun climbing, sliding, swinging, jumping and spinning. www.lollipopsplayland.com.au Mini Mates (Burbank) Mini Mates is a wonderful place that offers a real hands-on animal experience. 07 3349 1910 Website http://minimates.wix.com/minimates

North Lakes Aquatic Centre (North Lakes) Take all the stress, mess and fuss out of your kids next party and have it at North Lakes Aquatic Centre. 07 3886 2022 www.northlakesac.com.au

Skateaway (Albany Creek) You can plan your party around your needs either during the day, or for something different, at night. Included in the Party Packages is - food, skate hire, a party table, skate session and a party host. 07 3325 1711 www.skateaway. net.au/ Thunderbird Park (Tamborine Mountain) Take birthday parties to the top at Thunderbird Park on Tamborine Mountain. Adventure joins nature in this 112-hectare rainforest property. Kids can go wild in the great outdoors, a range of exciting adventures keeps them entertained and they will remember this party for years . 07 55451468 www.thunderbirdpark.com.au Tiddlywinks Dance and Play Café (Nundah) Tiddlywinks provides invitations, unlimited dance and play, individual baskets of food, reserved table for parents, free return entry for birthday child. 07 3266 8484 www.tiddlywinks.com.au

Ooniverse Café (Hawthorne) Parties are run by Nicky Noo – a positive speaking alien from Planet Ooniverse.

Nicky Noo, can’t wait to meet you! Nicky Noo Parties provide busy parents with a hassle free positive birthday party. www.nickynoo.net

We Play Family Fun Centre (Browns Plains) Wow your guests with their one-of-a-kind fully themed party rooms, gourmet cafe, black light mini golf, laser tag, lasertronics, balltronics, and, of course, the best play structure in the country! 1300 937 529 www. brownsplains.weplay4fun.com.au

Petite Princess Parlour (North Lakes) All Inclusive Birthday Party Packages for girls including age appropriate beauty treatments with traditional party fanfare in their exquisitely decorated Parlour in North Lakes! They provide everything from the printed invitations through to cakes, take home party boxes and everything sparkly in between! 3491 3588 www. petiteprincessparlour.com.au

Yogurtland (Strathpine) At Yogurtland, they are all about using the real stuff in their frozen yogurt: real milk, real fruit, real toppings, real flavour. You can create your own flavour sensation with a variety of toppings. They now do parties! Choose from a variety of packages which include a host, games, party bags, balloons, party hats, invites and a gift for the birthday child! 07 38899497 www.yogurtlandaustralia.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Build-A-Bear Workshop (Chermside & Carindale) All Guests will get to make an unfurgettable memory together that will last forever. You will get a party leader to keep your guests entertained so you can host a hassle-free party with no mess and no clean up. www. mybuildabearparty.com.au

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Winter Day Trips 5

Inspired Ideas for the June/July Winter School Holidays!

We’ve rounded up our favourite 5 day trips around Brisbane that are a little ‘further afield’ and definitely worth the drive.

Visit our website www.familiesmagazine.com.au and search for ‘day trips’ for loads more inspiration.

  SEA LIFE Underwater World Mooloolaba

 What to do: Situated at Mooloolaba Wharf, just moments from the main Esplanade, Sea Life Underwater World is home to thousands of animals, including sharks, seals, turtles, stingrays, otters, sawfish, tropical fish and much, much more. Walk through the glass viewing tunnel and see Australia's marine life like never before!

Come within inches of huge sharks, rays and turtles and see some of the remarkable marine and freshwater animals for which Australia is famous.

With 16 themed zones visitors have the unique opportunity to explore the world of Sea Life including the Jellyfish Kingdom, Seahorse Sanctuary, Tidal Touch Pools, Seal Island, Otter Empire, Freshwater Streams, Pacific Reef, Coastal Wreck, Billabongs, Shark Shipwreck, Coral Cove, Bay of

Rays, Turtle Temple, Crawly Creatures and the Conservation Cove – highlighting their initiatives in ‘Breed, Rescue, Protect’!

There is something for all ages and lots of hands on activities to keep even the youngest of your Brisbane family happily entertained and engaged. We love the new indoor climbing frame play centre.

Keep your eyes open for special events such as the ‘Sleep Under the Sea’ experience. See our review: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/articles/reviews Location: Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba, QLD, 4557 (1 hour north of Brisbane) Cost: Child (Under 3) Free, Child (3-14 years) From $18.20, Adult (15 years+) From $27.30, Concession From $21.00, Family of four From $89.00. Annual passes are also available. Food: Available on site – Yes, Bring your own - No www.underwaterworld.com.au Make a day of it: Mooloolaba Beach is a 2 minute walk from Underwater World. Mooloolaba Wharf is also an area of interest with shops cafes and restaurants.

  The Workshops Rail Museum Ipswich What to do: The Workshops Rail Museum is located in North Ipswich at Australia’s oldest railway workshops still in operation. They make history come alive with hands-on exhibits, multi-media encounters and colourful stories coupled with huge steam locomotives and massive industrial machinery. You can explore over 15 larger-than-life exhibits to discover the enormous impact rail has had on our lives, beautifully restored carriages, the largest model railway of beautiful Queensland, the future of rail and treasured icons including the ViceRegal carriage and Australia’s oldest working steam locomotive.

Enjoy a miniature train ride with the family around the museum ground, or try driving a train on a simulator and take a guided tour of the active railway workshop.

During the June/July School Holidays, ‘Brick Kids’ is coming to The Workshops Rail Museum. There will be many LEGO® activities available throughout the museum.

Location: North Street, North Ipswich. Cost: Child (Under 3) Free, Child (3-15 years) $12.00, Adult (15 years+) $21.00, Concession $18.00, Family $63.00. Food: Available on site – Yes, Bring your own – Yes www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au Make a day of it: Ipswich has some amazing parks. Our two picks are River Heart Parklands and Queens Park. Ipswich Art Gallery is also a very family friendly destination with lots of free or low cost activities for the children.

  Maleny Dairies

What to do: Maleny Dairies is a family owned business situated in the picturesque hills of Maleny. The process of milking their Guernsey girls and bottling their creamy goodness for your breakfast table is a fascinating one.

On their tours you get to see where it all happens and learn a lot about the process and the different products that they are so famous for. A tour guide will take you to see the baby calves and explain the history of the farm and how Maleny Dairies got started. Meet one of their beautiful Guernsey cows and see how to milk a cow by hand. They will take you across to the Dairy so you can see the equipment they use to milk

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

the cows. After that they will take you to the factory so you can see how the milk is processed and bottled. A short DVD is then shown and some interesting artefacts in their "Mooseum" can be enjoyed. The tour concludes with a sampling of some of their award winning products.

Tours are conducted at 10.30 am and 2.30 pm Monday to Saturday (excluding public holidays) and take approx 1½ hours. They do not run tours on Sundays. See our review: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ articles/reviews Location: 70 McCarthy Road, Maleny (90 mins north of Brisbane) Cost: Child (under 2) Free, Child/Adult (2 years and over) $11.00 Food: Available on site – Yes, Bring your own – Yes www.malenydairies.com Make a day of it: Explore the lovely village of Maleny with unique cafes, shops and galleries. Take a walk through Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World.

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  Broadbeach Country Music Festival

What to do: Saddle up and round up your posse for the second annual Broadbeach Country Music Festival, June 19-21, 2015on the Gold Coast. The best bit is – it is free to attend!

Attendees will be able to meet their favourite artists with programmed meet and greet opportunities taking place at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre throughout the festival. Catherine Britt and James Blundell will be available 11am and 1pm on Saturday June 20, and The McClymonts at 11.45am Sunday June 21. Free continuous loop shuttle buses will run from the heart of the festival to Pacific Fair and Jupiters making it incredibly easy to access these venues.

Remember to book ahead to secure cheap parking at the Paradise Centre Car Park from $6 for all day parking with Secure Parking: http://bit.ly/1u4kV7k

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Set on the pristine beachfront of Broadbeach, the festival will see a perfect mix of board shorts and banjos, surf boards and steel guitars as country music’s finest assemble for three days and nights of incredible entertainment.

Uniquely combining the ‘Country with the Coast’, The Broadbeach Country Music Festival is free to attend while showcasing premier Country Music performers on a number of outdoor stages and in venues throughout the entire Broadbeach precinct.

Location: Broadbeach Mall, Gold Coast Cost: Free Food: Available on site – Yes, Bring your own – Yes www.broadbeachcountry.com

Make a day of it: There is so much to explore on the Gold Coast – beaches, shops, parks, cafes and theme parks.

  Abbey Museum Medieval Festival Caboolture What to do: On Sat 11th and Sun 12th July you can transport yourself to a place where history and fantasy merge into a breath taking world at the Abbey Museum Medieval Festival in 2015. This premier event at the Abbey Museum in Caboolture transforms sunny Queensland into a medieval wonderland every July. You will see the exquisite detail of their re-enactment camps, cheer the jousting and falconry, gorge on the sizzling meats and fine mead, and leave with the taste of history on your lips and doublet. Their attractions beguile young and old, and won’t cost a king’s ransom.

Throughout the weekend, the Tournament program offers a wide range of entertainment. There is something on the program for

everyone, from Historical Combats to Medieval dance, to music and fabulous street performers and much more!

There are more than sixty stalls covering a huge range of products, arts and crafts in Australia’s most authentic medieval market. You’ll also experience delicious medieval food and drink. Try an authentic venison pie at the “Stag Inn”, or ale or cider at the The Friar’s Folly Tavern.

Check out our competition on page 31 to enter to WIN a family pass!

Location: 1 – 63 The Abbey Place (off Old Toorbul Point Road), Caboolture (40 mins north of Brisbane) Cost: Child (under 5 years) Free, Child – From $12.00, Adult – From $25.00, Concession – From $15.00, Family – From $65.00. Food: Available on site – Yes, Bring your own – Yes www.abbeymedievalfestival.com

Make a Day of It: You can easily make a day of it at the Festival, there is so much to do. Only another 20mins up the road is the beautiful Bribie Island with beaches, fishing and shops.

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FAMILIES FUN FAMILIES

Listings for everyone in every family!

For even more families’ fun visit our website’s event calendar or search Facebook and Twitter with #FamiliesMagFun

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events

To promote your local family friendly event including school fetes and fairs, community groups, get-togethers and local festivals in the next ‘Families Fun’ listings (August/September 2015) send your entry by 5pm Monday 29 June 2015. Email Regina – Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au or upload directly to our online calendar – www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event-submission Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check the details of the events listed before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

JUNE

The Workshops Rail Museum

Throughout Jun & Jul Dinosaur Discovery: Lost Creatures of the Cretaceous (South Brisbane) Dinosaur Discovery: Lost Creatures of the Cretaceous gives you a chance to experience life on earth 145 million years ago. Featuring more than 20 animated, life-size dinosaur models, including the fearsome T-Rex, and Queensland’s very own Muttaburrasaurus, Dinosaur Discovery: Lost Creatures of the Cretaceous will transport you back millions of years to when dinosaurs ruled the earth. Queensland Museum. 9.30am – 5pm. www.qm.qld.gov.au Throughout Jun & Jul Reel Bubs Films at Dendy (Hamilton) The perfect outing for parents with infants and young children, Thursday mornings at 10.00am. Enjoy the films you really want to see in a comfortable setting for both you and Bub. Tickets are just $10.50 and include a complimentary morning tea before your movie experience. You can even request a night light to ensure your child’s comfort. These sessions WILL NOT be showing during the school holidays.

For upcoming films visit www.dendy.com.au/Page/ Reel-Bubs-Portside.

Throughout Jun – Sun 12 Jul Humanoid Discovery (South Bank) Your mission is to study the human beings which inhabit this planet called Earth. You will conduct several experiments to investigate these life forms. How do their muscles work under Earth’s gravity? What happens to their heart when they exercise? Get the inside knowledge on how the human body functions.

Sciencentre. 9.30am – 5pm. www.sciencentre.qm.qld.gov.au

Wed 3 – Sun 8 Jun The Music Man (St Lucia) Con man Harold Hill travels to the small town of River City, Iowa to earn his fortune. He decides to convince the town that they need a kids’ band and then plans to run away once the parents have paid for instruments and uniforms. Bookings essential. www.queenslandmusicaltheatre.com Fri 5 Jun LUMINOUS Lantern Parade (South Bank) Join more than 12,000 Queenslanders from all walks of life to welcome new arrivals to the sunshine state with MDA’s LUMINOUS Lantern Parade and concert at South Bank Parklands. A free community event, the LUMINOUS Lantern Parade provides a visual feast of mesmerising lanterns in the form of exotic and native animals, celestial shapes and characters. The parade commences in The Cultural Forecourt and winds its way through South Bank Parklands. 5.30 – 8.30pm. www.mdaltd.org.au Sat 6 Jun Indigi Day Out & Folk Redlands Festival of Music (Capalaba) Lots to see and do!

Market stalls by local companies and suppliers, Native plant sales, heaps of kids activities including craft, environmental displays, trackless train rides, live animals, face painting, music and food! After dark, join in a bush dance performed by Stone The Crows and enjoy a BBQ available by Folk Redlands.

10am – 8pm. Free entry. www.indigiscapes.redland.qld.gov.au

Sciencentre

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Sat 6 Jun – Sat 15 Aug Sleeping Beauty (Petrie Terrace) When the Bad Fairy becomes aware that she wasn't invited to Princess Crystal's christening,

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

she casts a nasty spell-in-waiting to greet the Princess on her 16th birthday. A rest of a hundred years may soon be the fate of the entire kingdom.

Meanwhile, Prince Goodheart of Fingleshire and his loyal servant Simon are on a quest for true love.

Will the two families of neighbouring kingdoms cross paths? A modern, musical take on a classic tale in a new Australian script. Bookings essential. www.artstheatre.com.au Tue 9 – Sat 13 Jun The Gruffalo’s Child (Brisbane) If you loved The Gruffalo, don't miss this sequel.

One wild and windy night the Gruffalo's child ignores her father's warning and tiptoes out into the snow. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn't really exist. Does he? The team behind The Gruffalo returns, bringing together physical theatre, music and puppetry to deliver songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 4 and up and their adults Bookings essential. QUT Gardens Theatre. www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au Wed 10 – Mon 15 Jun The Wiggles – Rock & Roll Pre-school Tour (Various locations) Swing along as you Dance with Emma and be the coolest kid in preschool with I Want a Leather Jacket. The Rock n’ Roll Preschool tour will get you all shook up, mixing some of these new hits with Wiggles classics such as Hot Potato!, Rock – a –Bye Your Bear and Do the Propeller. The fab four of fun for under-fives will of course be joined by Dorothy the Dinosaur, Captain Feathersword, Wags the Dog and Henry the Octopus! Bookings essential. www.thewiggles.com

#FamiliesMagFun Sat 13 Jun RE/MAX Advantage Illuminations Festival (Wynnum) Wynnum’s foreshore will come alight with the second Remax Illuminations Festival. Entertainment will feature a Lantern parade light displays; tree illuminations; twilight markets and a Fire Sculpture. Lantern Parade Featuring seaside themed giant lantern creations and hundreds of children’s lanterns forming a colourful parade from Wynnum Central and a Fireworks display. Markets and food stalls. 2 – 9pm. www.illuminationsfestival.com.au Sat 13 & Sun 14 Jun LEGO® Fan Expo (Strathpine) A fun filled family event, bound to bring out the child in everyone. Amazing LEGO creations and displays. LEGO kids play area – play build and have fun. Strathpine Community Centre. www.brisbricks.org Sun 14 Jun Kokedama (Moss balls) with Neon Patina (Brisbane) Sophisticated mud cakes. Is there any more of a reason needed to learn the art of kokedama? Kokedama are balls of string and moss-covered soil from which a plant grows, creating perfect indoor gardens. Hands on Brisbane workshop for children and adults 10 years and over. Bookings essential. www.handsonbrisbane.com Sun 14 June WELCOMEfest (Greenslopes) As part of the World Refugee Week celebrations, WELCOMEfest allows you to travel around the world in one day without hopping on a plane!

Experience world culture through: international cuisine; music and dance performances; DJs; workshops and displays; a dynamic sports program; engaging children’s activities; and so much more. Free entry. 9am –5pm. www.mdaltd.org.au/welcomefest

Fri 19 – Sun 21 Jun Broadbeach Country Music Festival (Broadbeach) Saddle up and round up your posse for the second annual Broadbeach Country Music Festival. The best bit is – it is free to attend! Set on the pristine beachfront of Broadbeach, the festival will see a perfect mix of board shorts and banjos, surf boards and steel guitars as country music’s finest assemble for three days and nights for incredible entertainment. www.broadbeachcountry.com.au Sat 20 Jun Mount Ommaney Special School Baby and Kids Market (Mount Ommaney) Mt Ommaney Special School are re-launching their Baby & Kids Market which will be bigger and better than ever before! Come along to 94 Capitol Dr, Mt Ommaney on Saturday 20th June, 9am-1pm.

Entry is just $2 and all proceeds will go towards the construction of an outdoor sensory learning area.

There will be heaps of bargains on offer, as well as rides and activities to keep the kids amused.

For more information email Jim Green at jgree345@eq.edu.au www.facebook.com/pages/Mount-OmmaneySpecial-School Sat 20 Jun Squaring the Wheel (Redcliffe) Squaring the Wheel combines circus, clown, strange mechanisms and contraptions, puppetry, magic and music into an unusual, thingamabobbish theatre extravaganza.

Unpredictable, funny, touching, highly visual and occasionally out of control, it is a clever theatre adventure for the whole family in thinking outside of the box. Family show suitable for ages + 5.

Bookings essential. Redcliffe Cultural Centre. www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au Sun 21 Jun Colours by Roundabout Theatre (South Bank) Colours is a bright, interactive, familyfriendly outdoor theatre show. It follows a sailor’s

journey to re-unite the three primary colours and create rainbows again. Children will be taught how to make their own colour wheels before, after and during the show and will be encouraged to use them while the show is on. 9am – 1pm. FREE. www.visitbrisbane.com Sun 21 Jun Family Fun Day at Dendy Portside (Hamilton) Family Fun hits Dendy Portside with fun for all ages. Celebrating the release of ‘Minions’ kids and big kids alike will enjoy a range of activities before the 10.30am film. Tickets $8.00ea for families and a free large Popcorn, there’s no better way to enjoy a day out with the kids. www.dendy.com.au Fri 26 Jun – Sat 11 Jul QB’s Peter Pan (South Bank) With swashbuckling swordfights, giant puppets and breathtaking flying sequences, Trey McIntyre's Peter Pan uses a brilliant mix of dance and theatre to tell the tale of the boy who wouldn’t grow up.

Told from a child’s perspective, this imaginative, poignant ballet re-interprets J M Barrie's famous story with wit, verve and a distinctly modern spirit.

Peter Pan may not have grown up, but his story has. QPAC. Bookings essential. www.qpac.com.au Sat 27 Jun – Fri 12 July Brick Kids (Ipswich) The Workshops Rail Museum presents Brick Kids this school holiday. Create a LEGO® masterpiece and get the family to help too! Includes a LEGO® DUPLO® area for under 3s. Search the Model Railway layout for the hidden LEGO® pieces . Enjoy LEGO® inspired craft and colouring-in at Creation Station. Watch the LEGO® Movie in the theatrette, starting at 10.30am and 1pm. Ages 3 – 10 years. www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au

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From our Kids Technology Expert and columnist, Tyronne Curtis

Careers of Tomorrow

Listings for everyone in every family!

Sat 27 Jun – Fri 12 Jul Snow and Slide Park (Brisbane) Visit the adventurous Snow and Slide Park at the Riverstage, Brisbane City and enjoy taking in all the snowy action. Get your heart racing by sliding down one of their 8 toboggan slides. Each slide is around 30 meters long and designed to entertain both children and adults.

Visit the themed Bavarian restaurant to enjoy some tasty treats or simply relax while watching over the slides. Daily 9am – 5pm. www.sillysnowmen.com.au Mon 29 Jun – Fri 3 Jul Flipside Circus Workshops (Alderley) Flipside has a variety of workshops to keep your little ones active this holiday. They include Flipperoos Camp (5 -7 year olds), 1, 3 or 5 day workshops (6 – 16 year olds) Bookings essential. www.flipsidecircus.org.au Mon 29 Jun – Fri 3 Jul Pirate’s Week (South Brisbane) ARRRR me hearties! Pirates are invited to join The Queensland Maritime Museum at Pirate Week in the June/July school holidays. Fun filled days of pirate activity for children aged 5 to 11. Bookings essential. www.maritimemuseum.com.au

Recently, I experienced virtual reality for the first time at an event held by the Brisbane VR community. Needless to say I was more excited than a kid in a candy store when I found out about their event.

I was able to experience some cool stuff, like go helicopter flying over cannons and over mountains, play basketball in a virtual arcade centre and even make a 3D creation out of virtual clay.

This experience got me thinking about tomorrow’s world and what that may look like for our young people and in particular their workforce. These types of technologies mean that career pathways will look very different in the future. Jobs that existed 15 years ago have been replaced robotics and the internet has become more powerful than anyone could have imagined.

Concepts like cloud computing, the internet of things and drone deliveries are radically change how we work, live and play. With an ever increasing population, there has never been a more important time to break traditional work/life paths and show our kids another way.

Mon 29 Jun – Tue 7 Jul The 26-Storey Treehouse (Brisbane) Well, what are you waiting for? Come on up! THEY'RE BACK! Yes, that's right. Andy and Terry had such a ball with their crash-landing entry into the world of theatre with The 13-Storey Treehouse, they're back for more. 13 storeys more, in fact. Bookings essential. QUT Gardens Theatre. www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au Mon 29 Jun – Fri 10 Jul The Voice in The Walls

by Imaginary Theatre (Brisbane) An interactive performance for 9 - 12yr olds at Old Government House by Imaginary Theatre, presented by QUT Precincts. Victor and Mary are voices from the past, lingering like ghosts within the walls. They need help to bring their stories to light and right the wrongs of history, and there is only one person who can help them. The Voice in the Walls is a new audio immersive and interactive performance. Set amongst the historic halls of Old Government House, the audience will be equipped with headphones and a wireless device while they traverse the halls of the House in an audio tour like none other. Bookings essential. www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au Mon 29 Jun – Fri 3 Jul & Mon 6 – Fri 10 Jul Story Lab Workshops – State Library (South Brisbane) Choose the modes that suit you and then log in with our industry professionals for

A big focus of Activate Entertainment is on getting the most advanced technology in front of the youngest minds, in the hope that once they see and experience current trends, their little minds will then think ‘ok, that was cool - but what else is there?’

About the Writer Tyronne Curtis is the founder and director of Activate Entertainment and believes technology and creativity is going to be a big part of tomorrow’s generation and wants to be a part of ensuring they are ready for it. Activate Entertainment run fun & interactive workshops & afterschool classes to help children be more active when using technology. Check out the opportunities for your children. www.activateentertainment.com.au tyronne@activateentertainment.com.au

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

hands-on, minds-on workshops. Workshops run for the whole day, with supervised activities at lunchtime. All materials are supplied for each workshop, with a range of activities catering for different age groups and learning styles.

Parental/carer supervision not required. Get hands-on and activate your creativity! Explore your world through writing, filming, creating, gaming, photographing and stop motion animation. Story Lab is back this winter with an exciting program of digitally inspired workshops.

Ages 8 – 16years. Bookings essential. www.slq.qld.gov.au Tue 30 Jun – Fri 17 Jul Sprouts in the Park at Roma Street Parkland (Brisbane) Roma Street Parkland’s school holiday program is back with a fantastic selection of activities for children of all ages including; 30 June, 2,7 & 9 July - Art, craft, Bop along Buddies and gardening activities – help make a family of Grassheads to display at Parks Alive in August (suitable for children 2 – 10 years). 9.30am – 11.30am. 1, 3, 8 & 10 July - Yoga classes (suitable for 3-6 years) 9.30am – 10.15am. 1, 3, 8, 10, 15 & 17 July Boppin’ Babies music workshops (suitable for 0 - 4) – 9.30am – 11.30am. The Parkland Explorer running MondayFriday 10am -12.30pm – Sat & Sun 10am -3pm. A gold coin contribution is requested for all Sprout activities. www.romastreetparkland.com

JULY Wed 1 Jul Hi-5 House of Dreams (South Brisbane) The sun is setting and it’s time for the big Hi-5 sleepover party! With the help of Chats, the Dream Master, and her magical Dream Catcher, your Hi-5 friends journey on some wild, wonderful and wacky dream adventures!

Children will feel a part of the action and, as always, there’ll be heaps of singing and dancing, along with bubbles, bouncy balls and dazzling disco ball lighting. Bookings essential. 2 shows – 10am & 1.30pm. www.lifeliketouring.com Fri 3 – Sun 12 Jul Snow4Kids Park (South Bank) Enter the Snow4Kids Park at the Courier Mail Piazza at South Bank Parklands and take in a breathtaking view. Experience a fun filled time in tons of real, fresh snow made daily for children under the age of 8 years to enjoy. They can climb the snow mountain, slide down the mini toboggan slides and build their very own snowman. Daily 9am – 5.30pm. www.sillysnowmen.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun Sat 4 Jul Catch & Release Fishing Day (Brisbane) The Catch and release fishing day, hosted by Pine Rivers Fish Management Association, provides the opportunity for children to enjoy the art of fishing in a fun and safe environment. No experience is necessary as guidance will be provided on the day.

Children should be accompanied by an adult at all times. Children aged 7 – 12years. FREE www.romastreetparkland.com Sat 4 – Sat 11 Jul Roald Dahl's Revolting Rhymes and Dirty Beasts (Kelvin Grove) Get ready to see Roald Dahl’s witty words come to life as your favourite nursery rhymes are flipped upsidedown and turned inside-out. Seriously funny and frighteningly silly, Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes & Dirty Beasts is the perfect school holiday entertainment. Bookings essential. www.laboite.com.au Sat 4 & Sat 11 Jul Sleep Under the Sea (Mooloolaba) Explore the depths of the all new SEA LIFE Mooloolaba these schools holidays with the return of their family sleepovers! Explore the depths of their ocean walk through and see what their creatures and critters really get up to at night!

Sleep in the tunnel! Bookings essential. www.underwaterworld.com.au (read our review www.familiesmagazine.com.au/reviews) Mon 6 – Sat 11 Jul Flying Fox Studios Winter Holiday Workshops (Everton Park) One of Brisbane's most popular range of creative, handson workshops for children from 4 – 15 years. These 1.5 hour workshops are uniquely designed by Flying Fox Studios, with the program covering a wide range of fun creative experiences such as visual arts, engineering, craft, science, music, drama, textiles, and construction. And always in an imaginative, and inspiring way. Hurry as they book out quickly! www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au Tue 7 Jul The Fairies Present: Fairy Dancing Girls Harmony & Rhapsody (Redcliffe) The hour-long show featuring Australia's favourite fairies, will have your own fairies, pixies, elves, bees and wizards up on their feet, oohing and aahing at the dancing; giggling and laughing at Barnaby, Wizzy & Elf's antics and even more in love with their heroines Harmony & Rhapsody. 11am & 2pm.

Redcliffe Cultural Centre. Bookings essential. www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au Tue 7 & Wed 8 Jul Mister Maker (South Brisbane) Experience Mister Maker live on stage! With catchy songs, creative makes and special guests The Shapes, this arty party is a treat for the whole family. Bookings essential. QPAC. www.qpac.com.au Sat 11 & Sun 12 Jul Abbey Medieval Festival (Caboolture) Transport yourself to a place where history and fantasy merge into a breath taking world at the Abbey Museum Medieval Festival in 2015. Cheer the jousting and battling knights, explore the world of their re-enactment camps, feast on sizzling meats and fine mead, and leave with the taste of history on your lips and doublet.

Their festival will captivate young and old, and won’t cost a king’s ransom. www.abbeymuseum.com.au Mon 13 Jul The Very Hungry Caterpillar (Kelvin Grove) With puppets made by acclaimed New York company Puppet Kitchen, Eric Carle's incredible stories will come to life on stage in this enchanting show. Featuring some other delightful characters from three of Eric Carle’s bestselling classics tales including Mr. Seahorse, The Very Lonely Firefly and The Artist Who Painted A Blue Horse. The Round House Theatre. www.hungrycaterpillarshow.com Mon 13 & Tue 14 July Squaring The Wheel (Brisbane) Squaring the Wheel combines circus, clown, strange mechanisms and contraptions, puppetry, magic and music into an unusual, thingamabobbish theatre extravaganza! With a little imagination, a frying pan turns into a friend, a broom plays music, an egg takes a walk,

Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo

and even the most ordinary household items become extraordinary fun. Following the hourlong show, stay for a 20-minute demonstration of contraptions and the science behind them.

Bookings essential. QUT Gardens Theatre. www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au Tue 14 Jul Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo (Logan Central) Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo is a unique show that allows heaps of interaction for kids and adults while they travel with the Erth performers on a journey through prehistoric Australia. Experience an amazing selection of dinosaurs and creatures that inhabited the landscape millions of years ago.

Children will have the opportunity to help feed, water and care for these prehistoric marvels with simple lessons in animal husbandry. There will be two shows – 12.30 & 4.30pm. Bookings essential. www.loganentertainmentcentre.com.au Sat 25 – Sun 26 Jul Mt Gravatt Show 100th Year (Mt Gravatt) Come and enjoy the Mt Gravatt Show this year as they celebrate their 100th show in 25 and 26 July from 9am-6pm. Entertainment will include: FMX KAOS International Freestyle Bikes, monster fireworks, rides, dance showcases, live entertainment, great food, fun kids' activities, animals and much more. www.mtgravattshow.com

Sat 25 Jul – Feb 2016 Rescue (South Bank) This interactive and engaging exhibition allows visitors to experience and react to high-pressure rescue-based scenarios where people’s lives are potentially at stake in land, sea and air rescues.

Visitors are put into the role of both rescuer and casualty to discover how rescue technology works but also how the skills and experience of those talented rescuers assist people in these situations.

Each exhibit explores topics related to rescue techniques, emergency supplies and equipment to highlight the physical and mental strength, quick thinking and dexterity required to carry out a dangerous rescue situation. With exciting handson exhibits, this is one exhibition you won’t want to miss! Sciencentre. www.sciencentre.qm.qld.gov.au Sun 26 July Little BIG DASH (Chermside) Little BIG DASH is back - a new obstacle adventure, full of colour, fun and guaranteed laughs for parent and child while enjoying activity together. Registration essential. www.littlebigdash.com.au

For even MORE Families Fun Events visit our website www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory

Clubs, Classes & Activities

around Greater Brisbane for adults and children aged 0 - 17.

If you would like a listing for your club, class or activity in our next issue’s inclusive directory, contact us now!

Email: Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Compiled by Regina Gleeson NS = Northside SS = Southside

CLASSES FOR ADULTS Arts Tree (SS) Arts Tree offers 2 hour art classes and two day art workshops that are exciting, fun, and jam-packed with tips and techniques used by professional practicing artists. Their tutors give you the knowledge you need to keep making masterpieces at home. 0437 146 359 www.artstree.com.au Hands On Brisbane (NS) Their arts and crafts workshops are conducted by some of Brisbane’s finest artisans to give you a hands on approach to learning your new skill. With many classes also providing the materials you need to start straight away, all you need to do is turn up and start creating! Workshops are held in Brisbane City at The Gardens Club, in the heart of the Brisbane City Botanic Garden. 07 3012 9606 www.handsonbrisbane.com Brisbane Sings (NS & SS) This site is a free community service which is building to be a comprehensive list of all singing groups in Brisbane and surrounding areas. It lists all types of singing groups including choirs, toning groups, barbershop, a cappella, sacred music, musical society, singing workshops and other singing groups - basically anywhere in this region where you can go to have a sing! www.spectrumfireworks.com.au/brissings enarjize Us (NS) is a group of like-minded people participating in a 1 hour Enjoyable Body Movement session that makes them feel alive and learn that moving their body is for fun! At these sessions you will learn; How to feel more confident in yourself, Have the enarji and "get up and go" that you deserve, Feel alive and learn that moving your body is fun, You will want to continue moving your body not just now, but forever. 0421 037 444 www.enarji.com.au Flipside Circus (NS) Leave your dramas, inhibitions and spandex at the door and avoid crowded gym rooms and repetitive workouts. Achieve fitness goals in a supportive and encouraging environment. Learn circus tricks that will amaze your friends (and yourself!) All circus activities are scalable to suit your individual goals. (07) 3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au Forum Communicators (NS & SS) Be a better speaker. Toss your speaking fears out the window and come along to Forum. You will improve your public speaking skills in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, and even enjoy yourself.

The WILL to become a confident speaker is all you need, the time to join is now. (07)3266 3521 www.forumcommunicators.asn.au Mad Dance House (NS & SS) Offering over 120 classes a week in a stack of different styles - there is a class for you at Mad Dance House. Dance classes on offer are: Hip Hop, Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Popping, Locking, Tap, Hip Hop in Heels, Lyrical Hip Hop, Girly Style Street Jazz, Urban Contemporary, Commercial Jazz and fitness classes. No need to book- just rock up 10-15 mins before the start of your chosen class. 07 3210 6724 www. maddance.com.au Men’s Shed (NS & SS) An organization that is accessible to all men and whose primary activity is the provision of a safe and friendly environment where men are able to work on meaningful projects at their own pace in their own time in the company of other men. A major objective is to advance the well-being and health of their male members. 1300 550 009 www.mensshed.org

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Ministry of Handmade (NS) They are passionate about handmade and teach traditional made-byhand skills with a modern twist!In a busy world, slow the pace with us for a bit… learn some new skills (or revisit an old one), refresh your spirit, make some new friends. 0414 467 405 www. ministryofhandmade.com.au Paleo To You (NS & SS) Love To Bake Paleo But Don’t Know Where To Start! Demonstrations NOW Available! Learn how to bake PALEO goodies at home that your KIDS will LOVE! In Home Single Demonstrations & 6 Week Courses Available! For information or to make a booking 0404046264 or nurturepp@gmail.com Stork, Baby and You (SS) Experienced midwife of 34 years offers private, personalised education sessions on birth & parenting in the convenience of your home. Sue will travel from Byron Bay to Redcliffe. For 3+ hours she is able to discuss topics relating to your needs & wishes. She will also lend you a couple of dvd's to look at after she leaves.

Contact Sue Butler. 0411 854 443 www.antenatalclasses.com.au The Actors Workshop (SS) Supplying nationally recognised training pathways to school leavers and mature age students seeking dedicated vocational training as a Film, Television and Theatre Actor. 07 3891 1411 www.theactorsworkshop.com.au

Paediatric First Aid Courses

Injury prevention and first aid instruction (NS & SS) Recommended for pregnant couples, parents, grandparents, babysitters and other carers of children, this 4.5hr programme includes an in depth injury prevention talk followed by practical paediatric first aid including CPR for babies and toddlers. Kidsafe QLD 3854 1829 www.kidsafeqld.com.au Kids First Aid (NS & SS) They offer the only first aid courses delivered exclusively by experienced paramedics, designed to teach parents and caregivers how to respond calmly and confidently to 10 of the most common first aid emergencies situations. 1300 138 133 www.kidsfirstaid.com.au St John Ambulance Queensland (NS) This course is designed to meet the first aid needs of parents, guardians and members of the public who may be entrusted with the care of babies and children up to 12 years of age. This course provides the knowledge and skills to manage everyday emergency situations. 1300 360 455 www.stjohn.org.au

CLASSES FOR CHILDREN ARTS & CRAFT & COOKING

Miart (SS) Each child at Miart Brisbane is given guidance catered to their needs and interests as well as freedom and encouragement to express and develop their unique creativity. 0438193624 www.miart.com.au Renaissance Kids (NS & SS) Art lessons for children aged 5 years to 12 years. For students serious about improving their skills or just wanting to get a fun introduction to their creative side. 0404 847 684 www.renaissancekids.com.au Tania’s Arthouse (SS) Professional studio on the bayside that provides weekly art classes for all ages, from Prep up to yr 12. Fun & creative activities in a purpose built environment. 0422 497 627 www.taniasarthouse.com ZoomArt for Kids (NS) Art classes for children in a fun and friendly environment. 6 different age levels from 2 yrs to Grade 12. Designed for the intentional development of the child’s skills, observations, thinking, and experiences in the visual arts. 07 3855 1528 www. flyingfoxstudios.com.au

Cooking Classes Cutie Pies Baking School (SS) Does your little one love to be creative in the kitchen? Cutie Pies Baking School is where your child can mix, knead, roll, ice and decorate his or her own yummy creations! Have all the fun and leave the mess! 0426967055www.cutiepiesbakingschool.com Yummilicious Cookery (SS) love food, cooking and the social interaction that comes with it. Their mission is to bring children together in a safe, nurtured, fun and happy environment where they can learn about real food and cultivate the joy of cooking and mindful eating. 0421 327 187 www.yummilicious.com.au

LANGUAGE & BABY DEVELOPMENT AlphaTykes (NS & SS) They teach French, Spanish or Italian to children between 18 months and 12 years. Lessons run from 30 minutes (under 3 yrs) to 45 minutes (over 3 yrs). 1300 61 22 88 www.alphatykes.com.au Conversations On (SS) English, Japanese, Chinese, German, Spanish or French Classes. Small classes (max 6). They also help your baby communicate earlier with baby sign language classes. 07 3871 2882 www.conversationson.com.au Flipside Circus (NS) Flipside circus offers classes for people aged 1 and up! Their Wriggles and Giggles classes introduce toddlers and parents to the world of circus through fun, interactive workshops designed to improve gross and fine motor skills, social development and physical abilities. (07) 3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au

Brisbane Institute of Art (NS) These classes aim to encourage in children an appreciation of the aesthetic experience and personal symbolic language. Each term will focus on a particular media, so that during the year children will be exposed to a variety of mediums. 07 3857 5377 www.brisart.org

LCF Fun Languages (SS) Designed over 25 years, their methodology teaches French, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, English and German with a fun and active approach that will get your child using the language quickly and naturally. 1300 707 288 www.lcfclubs.com.au

Fox Blocks (NS) Fox Blocks is an innovative creative construction programme that uses a variety of materials such as Lego, Duplo, K’nex, and Fischertechnik, as well as everyday objects. There are 4 different age levels for children from 3.5 years to Grade 7. Each term has a different theme, and each class builds new proficiencies. 07 3855 1528 www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au

Baby Sensory Hawthorne (SS) They use a combination of original and traditional songs and rhymes to develop early communication skills and you will always remember the moment your baby first uses the signs of their Say Hello song which is played at the beginning of each Baby Sensory class. 07 3399 2004 www.babysensory.com/au

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

Sign Language

Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory Deaf Services Queensland (SS) Baby Sign is designed for parents to learn basic Auslan key word signs for babies and children who are hearing or deaf, between 2 mths and 5 yrs.

Infants naturally use smiling, cooing, crying and movement to communicate their needs/feelings so it is common for babies to use their hands to communicate long before they can speak. 07 3892 8500 www.deafservicesqld.org.au

ACTIVITY CENTRES Bounce Inc (SS) They believe everyone wants to fly though the air and bounce off the walls. So they have created Bounce Inc – a massive indoor trampoline universe packed with lots of high octane, extreme, fun things to do. 1300 000 540 www.bounceinc.com.au Bay Play (SS) Bay Play Cleveland is an Australiana themed, indoor play centre, with a difference. No other play centre will offer you the opportunity to interact and play with your children the way Bay Play Cleveland does. Catering for ages 6 months 16 yrs (and beyond!) their array of activities, events and attractions is fun for the whole family. (07) 3821 7772 www.bayplaycleveland.com.au Chipmunks Playland & Café (NS & SS) Visit Chipmunks for unlimited play for kids aged 0 – 11 years old and relax over a coffee or lunch with friends and family at their café in one of their 3 Brisbane locations. They feature state of the art equipment and are fully air-conditioned, clean and comfortable. They also have party facilities. www.chipmunks.com.au

Crank Indoor Climbing - Macgregor (SS) The largest indoor kids climbing area in Brisbane. Great for your next kid’s party (5yrs+). Filled with colourful creative fun climbs, a cargo net, a slackline and a mini caving tunnel. At $20 for 2 hours (min.10 kids) it is great value (no climbing experience is necessary as one of their friendly staff will show you the ropes). For the older kids they also have after school classes in both rock climbing and Parkour.

With the best instructors in Brisbane they will be trained safely to overcome any obstacle. BOOK NOW brisbaneclimbing@gmail.com Flipside Circus (NS) Go to Flipside Circus on Sundays to play, train and amaze! Sunday Circus is Flipside’s open space to explore the different circus apparatus they have, play with your friends, learn new tricks and amaze yourself and others with the fabulous things you can do. 9am to 12pm for Beginners and those very new to circus. (07) 3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au Inflatable World (NS) It's all about having fun, so bring the whole family and bounce on in to Inflatable World. It's not just for the kids. (07) 3266 5699 www.inflatableworldoz.com/qld Lollipop’s Playland & Café (NS &SS) Are great kids party venues or giving kids a treat while parents relax over a cup of coffee and a treat from their quality cafe. Their indoor play centres are safe and secure where kids can have hours of fun climbing, sliding, jumping and spinning. 4 Brisbane locations. www.lollipopsplayland.com.au Rainbow City Children's Playcentre & Cafe (SS) Rainbow City offers unique services especially for children under 8 years old. Not only do they offer soft play and big play structures, but they also offer young children a place to have fun – they have their imaginative and innovative play in mind. Air conditioned and free Wi-Fi. 07 3290 0434 www.rainbowcplaycentre.com.au Rocksports Indoor Climbing (NS &SS) Rocksports Indoor Climbing Centres offers people of all ages two superb venues to participate in the exciting sport of Indoor Climbing in a safe and friendly environment. No experience is necessary. For most people, Rocksports is a fun, social experience,

though it can also be a great step to a world of adventure, or a training venue, a team building challenge, a meeting place, or a birthday party to remember, or it can change your life! (07) 3216 0462 www.rocksports.com.au Skyzone Indoor Trampoline Park (SS) Sky Zone Macgregor isn't just any indoor trampoline park. It is hundreds of trampolines, connected to form a single massive trampoline that literally allows you to jump off the walls. And if that's not enough excitement for you Sky Zone Macgregor has Skyland - a 3 storey laser tag arena that holds up to 40 players battling it out in a cloud-filled wonderland. That's right, you read correctly. A trampoline park with laser tag! So what are you waiting for? 13 7599 www.skyzone.com.au State Library QLD (SS) The Corner is a creative play space carefully prepared for children from birth through to 8 years old and their parents and caregivers. Through art making, facilitated play, sharing stories and creative conversations children can interact with artists and each other to creatively engage in the serious business of play.

With new themes every few months there’s always plenty to see and do. Each day between 10am and 12noon, join arts workers for a creative play date.

Tuesday and Thursdays feature a performance by all singing, all dancing performer Tim Jackman and share rhymes, songs, stories and reading with our Rhyme Time sessions. Every Day (Mon – Sun) 10am – 3pm 07 3842 9786 www.slq.qld.gov. au/whats-on Tiddlywinks Dance & Play Café (NS) Tiddlywinks Dance and Play Cafe is a family owned and operated entertainment venue, providing a unique dance and play experience for children up to 11 years old. They also have dance programmes and party facilities. 07 3266 8484 www.tiddlywinks.com.au Velocity Park (NS) Challenge gravity, challenge your mates and challenge yourself to reach higher.

Planning a party? Corporate Event? School Group activity? Or are your kids bouncing off the walls??

Dodgeball, Slamball, Free Bounce, Wall Climbing, Trick Foam Pit and more...There's something for everyone at Velocity Park! 07 3482 4344 www.velocitypark.com.au We Play (SS) are the best family fun centres in Australia, offering entertainment, games and activities for children of all ages, facilities for corporate events and parties for children and adults alike. Our locations offer a huge soft play structure, exciting ball and laser games, mini-golf, ride-on cars and a gourmet cafe, all in a fully airconditioned, clean and safe environment. www.weplay4fun.com.au Xtreme Indoor Trampoline Centre (SS) The ceiling really is the limit at Xtreme and with dedicated adventure zones throughout the trampoline arena. Practice your flips and tricks on their longest tramp and land in a cushion of air.

Shoot to new heights on three massive Olympic trampolines. Try out their newest radical sport called ‘Jump and Bump’; use your bubble suit to bump your opponents out of the way and make it to the other side. Be quick on your feet and jump into a Dodge Ball game. Even though their trampoline arena is seriously Xtreme they also cater for Mini Jumpers who are aged between 3 and 5. 1300 586 787 www.xtremetrampoline.com.au

MUSIC Boppin’ Babies (NS &SS) Boppin’ Babies is a music therapy program for newborn babies up to 5 years.

Sessions run for 30 minutes. 0430 591 532 www.boppinbabies.com.au Gymboree (NS & SS) Award winning children’s Play & Learn Gym, Music & Art classes for 0-5yrs.

Designed by experts, the age-appropriate activities help develop the cognitive, physical and social skills of children as they play. The programs are also recognized for their unique approach to parent involvement—which encourages participation in and understanding of each child’s development. Free trial available. 07 3878 2468 www.gymboree.com.au

The Kangagang Show (NS & SS) Original Australian children's music capturing imaginations.

100% fun and interaction - learn singing, dancing, playing Aussie bush instruments and enjoy dressing up. Available for Childcare, Schools - Prep to year 4 and all Events. They guarantee BONZA FUN! See them live on Youtube.  Carolyn on 0497 365 829 www.thekangagang.com.au facebook.com/thekangagang Kindermusik at Flying Fox Studios (NS) Music and movement classes from newborn to 7 yrs.

Kindermusik classes encourage babies and children to develop language, social, emotional, and physical skills as well—all in the context of joyful, musically rich play! 07 3855 1528 www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au Music Masters (NS) This a sequential music program developed by Christine Masters. The classes are designed, not only to foster a child’s natural musical ability, but to extend them so that their musical education is fully developed. 07 3357 9646 www.musicmasters.com.au Neighbourhood Crèche (NS) A creative community business offering affordable early childhood classes and care for children aged 0-6.

YMM: Yoga, Massage and Music - A lovely bonding 45 minute sensory class for mums with newborns to 8 month old babies. (currently a National award nominee) Bubs music and movement classes for toddlers under 2: Dance, parachutes, bubbles puppets and fun.

Tots Music: - Fun and educational music classes for 2-4 year old children.

Keyboard Kids/Recorder Rock Stars: Small group classes of either Keyboard or Recorders for children aged 4-6 years. A fun after school activity.

Crèche Casual Child Care: Need a break or have things to do? drop your child off to the super fun and educational Crèche on Tuesday's and Thursday's for occasional care when you need it.

CCB approved. 0423032591 www.neighbourhoodcreche.com.au Info@neighbourhoodcreche.com.au Wee Make Music (NS & SS) classes are essential early development sessions where age appropriate activities using beat, rhythm, language and movement empower a love of music and learning in babies through pre-prep age children. So much fun and so beneficial for general cognitive, musical and social development. Free visit class for all.

Bulimba, New Farm, Wilston. www.weemakemusic.com.au 0434357764 Young Conservatorium (NS & SS) Operating under Open Conservatorium Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, this is the program of choice for families seeking a pedagogically sound music education. Positions are available in Early Childhood Music, Young Beginner, Developing Musician and Senior Tuition in classical /contemporary; Wind, String, Chamber, Vocal, Jazz and Symphonic Ensembles; and composition. www.griffith.edu.au/music/youngconservatorium

SPORTS & EXERCISE Australian Parkour Association (NS & SS) A philosophy and method of movement through any environment with speed and efficiency. The concept is to overcome all physical and mental obstacles in your path by using your body and mind to run, climb, jump and vault. 1800 759 015 www.brisbaneparkour.com.au Baseball Queensland (NS & SS) For boys and girls of all ages. Their club competitions fall into the following age groups: Under 8 MighTee ball, U10 Rookie Ball, Little League (U12), Baseball - U14, U16 and U18. 07 3876 2222 www.qld.baseball.com.au Brisbane Basketball (NS & SS) Basketball is a noncontact sport and provides a safe and enjoyable opportunity for players of all age groups. 07 3371 0200 www.brisbane.basketball.net.au continued on page 28 

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Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory continued from page 27 Brisbane Martial Arts (NS & SS) Whether Taekwondo, or Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is your preferred martial art, if you’re looking to start martial arts training, or take your training to the next level, there’s only one place to go, the home of martial arts in Brisbane. 1300 303 583 www.brisbanemartialarts.com.au Dynamight Kids (NS & SS) Teaches safety, selfdefence and life skills to children aged between 3-12 years. Lessons run for 30 minutes. 1300 61 22 88 www.dynamightkids.com.au Flipside Circus (NS) offer a wide range of classes from beginners to experienced from ages 0 - 100.

There is something fun and suitable for every age and every ability. The classes are fast moving and full of action – never a moment to spare. Go and learn all the skills of the circus including tissu, static trapeze, lyra, juggling, hoops, acro balance and tumbling. (07) 3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au Gymnastics Queensland (NS & SS) Gymnastics is one of the most fundamental and exciting of all physical activities. Basic gymnastic skills develop attributes that are perfect stepping stones for other sports, activities and life in general. 07 3036 5600 www.gymqld.org.au Gymboree (NS & SS) Award winning children’s Play & Learn Gym, Music & Art classes for 0-5yrs.

Designed by experts, the age-appropriate activities help develop the cognitive, physical and social skills of children as they play. The programs are also recognized for their unique approach to parent involvement—which encourages participation in and understanding of each child’s development. Free trial available. 07 3878 2468  www.gymboree.com.au Hockey Queensland (NS & SS) Hockey is a team sport, children learn the value of working with others. They figure out how to rely on teammates and understand that cooperation is key to success. 07 3399 6577 www.hockeyqld.com.au Junior Golf Queensland (NS & SS) Golf is a great game for juniors/students/children as it is a healthy game that one can play for their whole life.

Golf has special qualities that can have powerful and lasting impacts on young people’s self-image, personal development and confidence. 07 3252 8155 www.juniorgolfqueensland.org.au Life Stream (NS & SS) Facilitates a wide range of opportunities specifically in South East Queensland for people with an intellectual disability to participate, develop skills and be active members of their communities. Life Stream believes that through participation in community activities, recreation, leisure & sport and having friendships and responsibilities, people develop skills and lead healthy, active and meaningful lives. 07 3394 4399 www.lifestream.org.au Little Athletics Queensland (NS & SS) Auniquely Australian sport for children 5-16 years. Based upon the sport of athletics (track & field) the events are specially modified to suit the ages and abilities of children. A wide range of running, jumping, throwing and walking events is conducted. 07 3255 9436 www.qlaa.asn.au Netball Queensland (NS & SS) For young children interested in playing netball for the first time, there is NetSetGo! This program is for children (girls and boys) aged 5-10 and is designed for teaching the basics of netball while fostering fun and friendship in a team environment. 07 3848 6330 www.netballq.org.au PCYC (NS & SS) Gym fun, kids dance, tiny tots, cheerleading, boxercise, teen yoga karate, tumble and stunt, glee club, circuit and gymnastics is just some of the activities at PCYCs. Please contact your local club to see what is on offer for you and your children. 07 3909 9555 www.pcyc.org.au Queensland Cricket (NS & SS) These days, cricket offers some new and exciting formats for kids that won’t take up your whole weekend. Kids can take part in the Milo in2Cricket program, a fun way to get a taste of the sport. As their skills develop, they can transition into Milo T20 Blast and on to club cricket to continue a lifelong connection with the game. 07 3292 3100 www.qldcricket.com.au

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Ready Steady Go Kids is Australia's most reputable multi-sport and exercise program for pre-schoolers (aged 2.5-6 years). They have been operating since 2004 and currently run classes at Oxley, Tennyson, Bray Park and North Lakes with new classes added regularly.

It is a physio-designed program teaching children the fundamentals of 10 different sports in a fun, non-competitive, teambased environment. Classes are 45 minutes covering 5 sports per term. The program has a structure that is repeated each week so children become familiar with the routine. Ready Steady Go Kids seeks to develop lifelong passion for physical activity and sport. www.readysteadygokids.com.au 1300 766 892 Skipping Queensland (SS) A very dynamic, exciting and exhilarating sport. It helps in the development of an individual’s fitness and co-ordination, and is used by a number of other sporting codes and athletes for aerobic fitness.

Competitive skipping takes the activity to the next level. www.skippingqueensland.com.au Pure Tennis (NS & SS) Hotshots junior tennis programs teach essential motor skills, agility, balance and co-ordination. They provide a range of tennis based activities and fun games, whilst teaching children the fundamental aspects of tennis. For kids as young as 3 yrs, from beginners to elite. Lessons start from $12 per session. Griffith University Mt Gravatt, Ferny Hills and St Hilda’s School Gold Coast.www.puretennis.com.au Tennis Queensland (NS & SS) Tennis Queensland Registration is automatically included when you join your local affiliated club as a member. This will also give you access to all the exclusive benefits that the club chooses to offer. Find a club near you. 07 3120 7900 www.tennis.com.au

Horseriding Cherbon Waters (SS) Cherbon Waters’ facilities include a new fully lit 60m x 20 indoor arena (with an undercover viewing area), riding trails, round yards, stabling area, wash bays, safe fullyelectrified paddocks. 0417 704 671 www.cherbonwaters.com.au Dalson Park Indoor Equestrian Centre (SS) Horse riding lessons are well priced and cover the use of Dalson Park ponies, tacked up by capable stable hands; the use of arenas, tack, saddles, helmet and boots and expert and encouraging instruction. 0448 034 514 www.dalsonpark.com.au Gumnuts (SS) Gumnuts is a 140 acre horse farm located in the Biddaddaba Valley. They offer a farm stay experience as well as horseriding, which is their primary focus. They have expanded to include day & ½ day riding tours operating from both the Gold Coast and Brisbane. (07) 5543 0191 www.gumnutsfarm.com.au Heritage Riding (SS) It does not matter if you are a “first timer” or you are a current Junior Rider wanting to gain more competitive skills in Dressage or Jumping. They have a Horse/Pony and Qualified Instructor that will suit your needs, and give you a safe, fun, and enjoyable experience. 07 3206 3951 www.heritageriding.com.au Indarra Equestrian Centre (SS) provides a safe riding environment with qualified, professional staff so you can enjoy your love of horses. You can choose either group (max 4 riders) or private lessons. Indarra also hold fun filled day and overnight camps during each school holidays 0409 475 040 www.indarraequestrian.com.au Kiah Park (SS) Offers 7 day horse riding farm stays for children ages 6yrs - teens every school holidays.

Includes full accommodation and each child is given their own pony/horse to love, care for and

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

ride twice a day. Includes full accommodation, arena lessons, horse care – grooming & tacking up, trail rides and gymkhana. Fun night activities include night walk, talent show, camp fire with stories and marshmallow roasting, bingo and movie night. Children stay with us for 7 nights and enjoy a healthy, happy week of outdoor fun! (07) 5486 6166 www.kiahpark.com.au Nag Nanny (SS) Nag Nanny & Equine Resolutions is passionate about teaching all aspects of looking after horses. Children will not turn up to a horse that is saddled and ready to go, do their lesson and leave. They will teach them all about getting to know a horse. www.nagnanny.vpweb.com.au Riverside Equestrian Centre (SS) Riverside Equestrian Centre is located at Moggill in a parklike setting on the banks of the Brisbane River.

It is a short drive from Brisbane City. They offer lessons for groups and single riders from junior to senior riders. Each lesson runs for 2 hours instead of the normal 45mins. (07) 3202 6526 www. riversideequestriancentre.com.au Slickers Horse Riding (NS) Their lessons are conducted in either an enclosed yard or out on one of their trails depending on which the rider requires. 07 3285 1444 www.slickershorseriding.com Tamborine Mountain Trail Rides (SS) A 300 acre farm, Tamborine Mountain Trail Rides has ponies available for parties, as well as trail rides from a half hour through to whole day trips, and they offer lessons, too. 0434 011 826 www. horseridingqld.com Trevena Glen Farm (SS)Trevena Glen Farm is only a 45 minute drive from Brisbane. They provide a variety of farm experiences for your Brisbane Family.They also provide riding lessons that cover everything from learning to ride to all aspects of looking after a horse. So you can book in to have a very real horse experience, before you commit to buying a horse! (07) 32894257 www.grookea. odoo.com Wattle Creek Riding School (NS) At Wattle Creek, they specialise in one on one lessons. This gives 100% of the Coach’s attention to the rider. This allows the experienced and inexperienced to work at their optimum pace. No riding experience is needed to start as they teach from the first riding lesson to the highly experienced rider. 07 3300 6422 www.wattlecreekridingschool.com.au Windsong Equestrian Park (SS) Their coaches conduct private lessons by appointment, in an all-weather surface ProRide arena. Their coaches are qualified level one instructors and are happy to cater for beginners or higher skill levels of all ages. www.windsongpark.com

Swimming Aquatic Achievers Swim Schools (NS & SS) specialize in teaching babies through to stroke correction and squads. Their innovative Solo-1 teaching program advances skills in easy, achievable progressions. The pinnacle of their SOLO-1 program is for children to swim One Kilometre unassisted. www.aquaticachievers.com.au Dipadees (NS) The have four programs for babies from 4 months to children aged 18 years. 07 3355 1550 www.dipadees.com Grace Swimming (NS) a swimming environment that is friendly and family-oriented. Situated at Grace Lutheran College, this state-of-theart swimming facility boasts experienced and renowned swimming instructors that cater for all swimming levels. 07 3204 2725 www.graceswim.org.au Genesis Aquatic Centre (NS) Located in Bray Park they offer comprehensive Learn to Swim Lessons from babies through to Squad training. Their program runs Monday to Friday, before, during and after school hours, as well as Saturday mornings.

The key focus for all swimmers at Genesis Aquatic Centre is to swim technically as well as possible in all four strokes. 3882 9091 or aquatics@ genesis.qld.edu.au www.genesisaquatics.com.au

Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory Sam Riley Swim Schools (NS & SS) Dedicated, qualified and experienced instructors know the importance of balancing the professionalism required to teach your child to swim, whilst maintaining an element of enjoyment, so your child has fun while learning. 07 3050 7341 www.samrileyswimschools.com Superfish Swim Schools (SS) Located in Sunnybank in an indoor heated pool. Drowning Prevention Lessons from 3 months to PreSchoolers, offering babies 13wks to 25wks old FREE lessons, to encourage an early start. School Age Stroke Correction Lessons are available, 6 Days. Small, structured lessons. Free orientations & trial lessons for all new swimmers. 33233188 www.superfishswimschools.com.au The Clem Jones Centre (SS) The Learn to Swim program focuses on water safety, water confidence and the development of all strokes while also emphasising on fun and excitement for both the child and parent. They cater from 6 months to adult classes’. 07 3398 2107 www.clemjonescentre.com.au Nudgee College Swimming (NS) The organisation aims for its swimmers to reach their potential by providing a coaching program that produces excellent results at state, national and international level. They have a range of programs for different swimming groups, from beginners to advanced, from infants to older swimmers. Their program operates all year round. 07 3865 0516 syan@ nudgee.qld.edu.au North Lakes Aquatic Centre (NS) Concentrates in infant water familiarization, safety and personal development. Their swim program in conjunction with the Royal Life Saving Society caters for children from 6 mths through to Junior Squads.

Their instructors pride themselves on their wealth of experience, understanding and enthusiasm. (07) 3886 2022 www.northlakesac.com.au northlakes@belgravialeisure.com.au

Yoga Angel Yoga 4 Kids (NS) AYK Yoga classes teach children through asanas, yoga stories, yoga songs, yoga game’s, yoga art, yoga dance, visualisation, pranayama, relaxation & meditation techniques. 0412 564 757 www.angelyoga4kids.com.au Brisbane Yoga Space (NS & SS) An invaluable tool of fun, learning, health and growth for kids and teens. Through yoga, young people can have fun while developing health, fitness and selfconfidence. 0430 158 826 www.brisbaneyogaspace.com.au Calm For Kids Relaxation Classes (NS & SS) Calm for Kids hold yoga based relaxation classes for children throughout Australia. The Calm for Kids classes consist of balance, concentration and co-ordination exercises, breathing exercises and games, peer massage, children’s relaxation and visualisations and positive affirmations. 07 3343 3285 www.calmforkids.com.au Inna Bliss Yoga Studios (SS) Bliss kids yoga classes are a fantastic way for your child to enjoy the many benefits of yoga in fun and friendly environment.

The instructor guides the children through an interactive & themed practice of song, movement, yoga poses, creativity, story-telling and relaxation. 07 3162 2188 www.innablissyoga.com.au Ten Toes Yoga & Natural Health (NS) Children respond well to Kids Yoga Classes because Yoga gives them a chance to explore aspects of their bodies, minds and emotions in a fun and creative way. www.tentoes.com.au

FILM, THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS Brisbane Arts Theatre (NS) Their training enhances children’s performance skills and stagecraft knowledge with acting techniques, improvisation, voice (including singing – solo, chorus and harmonies) and movement training (theatre, dance and mime). 07 3369 2344 www.collegetheatrepractice.com.au

3-6. Lifting spirits through song. A beautiful way to end the school day. Call today for place in this innovative program directed by an award winning musical theatre and opera choreographer. Based in Sandgate, 4017 Call Belynda 0409 714 324

Activate Entertainment (NS)

Offers a variety of educational and fun programs in filmmaking and media arts.

Learn how to produce, direct and edit ‘out of this world’ projects using iPads, GoPro’s, Green Screen and Drones.

Activate Entertainment gets young people being both active and creative with new technologies.

This method encourages social engagement and creative problem solving whilst developing essential skills for tomorrow’s world. Programs designed for 8 - 17yrs (Primary & Secondary). 0423762096 www.activateentertainment.com.au Brisbane Youth Theatre (NS) Drama classes for kids from 7-17. Adventurous and playful they provide an exciting and supportive environment for creating theatre and enhancing learning.

Developing body and vocal freedom of expression and explore characterisation and script work. 0404 220 465 heidi@brisbaneyouththeatre. com.au www.brisbaneyouththeatre.com.au Flipside Circus (NS) Performance Program Flipside Circus Trainers support students in every step of the way ensuring each student is ready as they take the steps from performing in small in-house shows to roaming performances at fetes and festivals to touring large scale performing works in major festivals! (07) 3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au Helen O'Grady Drama Academy (NS & SS) They help children develop essential life skills and explore their creative side through developmental drama programs while providing them with the necessary life skills to prepare them for life after school. Helen O’Grady is the world’s foremost provider of developmental drama programs for children aged between 3 and 17 years of age in over 25 countries worldwide. 1300 647 239 www.helenogrady.com.au Shake and Stir Theatre Co (NS) Improve your child’s performance and communication skills, raise their self-confidence and increase their level of physical activity. 07 3358 6025 www.shakeandstir.com.au Stagecraft Acting School (NS & SS) Focus is on helping kids become happy, confident and successful people not just successful actors. They pride themselves in teaching kids the skills they need to become professional actors in the real world by making learning fun. 0417 118 006 www.actingacademy.com.au

Dance Attitude Dance Academy (NS) Attitude Dance Academy offers a safe, fun, learning environment where your child can study a variety of dance styles from highly experienced, professionally trained instructor 07 3349 0391 www.attitudedanceacademy.com.au Brisbane Academy of Dance (NS) A wide range of qualified teachers in all areas of dance. An energetic approach to teaching encourages students to achieve their personal best.(07)3356 588 www.brisbaneacademyofdance.com.au Buzz and Jump (NS) Pre school (3-5yrs) Butterfly Ballet and Little Buzz classes are a gentle introduction to dance, music and theatre. Lots of fairies, ponies and climbing rainbows to faraway places to improve motor skills, teamwork and confidence. Prep-year 2 Rainbow Dance and Buzz Theatre Kids, a delightful program of dance and theatre full of creative expression, lovely music and mime. Junior singing club New in 2015 for Yr

Elite Dancers (NS) Their many different classes are structured to suit the needs of every dancer, whether you want to dance for a career or for fun and fitness. We have classes for ages 3 and above on a registered or casual basis. 0427 999 909 www.elitedancers.com.au Kick Dance (SS) Structured programs in dance run by professional teachers with excellent qualifications and extensive industry experience. Classes which facilitate enjoyment, confidence, develop students at a very high technical level and allow a ‘kick’ start into the performing arts. Classical Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Irish Dancing, Creative Movement for tiny tots. 0414 308 248 www.kickdance.com.au Kinderballet (NS & SS) An Imaginative and creative introduction to Classical Ballet for toddler and pre-schoolers. They offer 'Mummy & Me' classes for 2 - 3 1/2 year old, 'Tots' classes for 3 1/2 - 5 year olds and 'Kiddies' classes for 4 - 5 year olds. 1300 6060949 www.kinderballet.com.au Movements Academy of Dance (NS) A well-established, friendly, family based studio that believes in teaching students to be all that they can be.

They handpick their teachers who are qualified, encouraging & inspiring so that every student can have the very best dance education possible. 07 3886 4098 www.movementsdance.com.au Seriously Dance (SS) They truly believe their philosophy of respecting each student for their individuality & challenging each student to obtain personal excellence. 0416 477 703 www.seriouslydance.com

TUTORS & SCHOOL SUPPORT Kids Matters Occupational Therapy (NS & SS) They help with all sensory, learning, motor and development issues. Clinics at Yeerongpilly and Albany Creek. Helping children reach their potential. 1300 136 596 www.kidsmatters.com.au Kip McGrath Education Centre (NS & SS) See your child really improve in maths and English. Qualified teachers create individual tutoring programs for your child, using proven Kip McGrath methods of tuition. Maths, English, Reading, Spelling & Comprehension. www.kipmcgrath.com.au Kumon (NS & SS) The Kumon Method is an individualised learning method. The starting point for each Kumon student is determined individually.

Students start with the level where they can attain a perfect score by studying on their own. 1800 458 666 www.au.kumonglobal.com ABC Reading Eggs (For ages 3-13) Join over 3.4 million users worldwide to teach your child to read with ABC Reading Eggs, the multi-award winning online reading program that makes learning to read fun.www.readingeggs.com.au/fam SPELD (SS) Is your child struggling at school? Do they have trouble with learning to read or write, following instructions or remembering information? SPELD can help! They have an advisory line, specialist teacher service, assistive technology service, assessment service, seminars / PD, and they have an extensive library. They support people experiencing specific learning differences. 3394 2566 www.speld.org.au Sort Organise Support (NS & SS) Provide support, education, training, and guided practice for students at critical entry points to Senior School.

Goals are individualised but may include setting up and maintaining effective study practices and work environments; managing work, recreation, school, family and community commitments; and setting realistic goals and expectations. 1800 002 062 www.sortorganisesupport.com.au

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Family Friendly Restaurants and Cafes

Families Magazine’s Favourite Family Friendly Restaurants & Cafes!

Ooniverse Café – Hawthorne

The OOniverse Café is located at 261 Hawthorne Road and encourages positive children using good manners, eating healthy and being nice to one another. The cafe has been decorated in bright, happy colours and has a plethora of arts and crafts to keep the kids busy as well as a garden and sandpit out the back. The menu is healthy and designed for kids with fruit skewers and yoghurt but of course coffee for the parents. They are about creating positive thinking children, for a happy future! www.nickynoo.net and look them up on Facebook.

King Country – Thornlands King Country is located at 58 Dinwoodie Road in the Redlands and is a kid’s paradise and parent’s retreat. A family owned and operated business with 3 kids of their own they have a good understanding of what kids and what parents need in a café/ restaurant!

At King Country they have Wedding Gardens, a Garden Cafe, Garden Nursery, fully enclosed kids playgrounds, Farm Animal Petting area and Rain forest walks. They also have daily activities including Pony Rides*, Jumping Castle*, Farm Animals* and multiple Playgrounds.

Their activities are available during the week only and are weather permitting, Tuesday – Friday 10am-1pm. *Some activities do incur a small fee. Farm animals and playgrounds are available every day.

(They are closed Mondays) On weekends they reserve jumping castle and pony rides for birthday parties. www.kingcountry.com.au

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

The Greek Club – South Brisbane Family friendly dining has never been tastier than at the Odyssey Taverna at The Greek Club. They have loads of dining options, and kid’s meals, so you and your family are guaranteed to go home satisfied, if not stuffed full of goodness! Centrally located in South Brisbane, they are a short stroll from both West End and the South Bank precinct. With views of the cityscape and Musgrave Park from their terrace, you can sit back and enjoy some authentic Greek cuisine with plenty of space for the kids to run around.

The Odyssey Taverna is open daily for lunch and dinner (except Sunday dinner) with live Greek music entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights, and Sunday lunch. Saturday nights are a big family party and you don’t have to be Greek to join their family! Children are welcome to dance and play on the dancefloor while the music entertains.

They can cater for large and small groups and welcome families with children of all ages. You don’t have to be a member to come along, but joining our membership program FREE of charge will get you loads of benefits and discounts. Yassou! Check out their website for their delicious menus www.thegreekclub.com.au

B

Families Magazine Brisbane also loves: JM Jones Tearooms

– Nebo’s Must Do Spot where you can feed wild birds. See our review: www. familiesmagazine.com.au/attractions/ jm-jones-tearooms-mt-nebo-day-trip-frombrisbane-with-kids

Paleo Cafe

– North Lakes Brisbane for their kids’ corner.

See our review: www.familiesmagazine.com. au/reviews/paleo-cafe-families-magazinebrisbane-reviews

Families Freebies

Families

for the whole family! s e i b e e r F Enter Online!

Enter at www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au/competitions

WIN A Family Pass to Dendy Portside’s School Holiday Movie

WIN 1 of 4 Crown & Andrews and Goliath Games DINO MEAL ($34.99) Get the eggs before the Dino gets you! This hungry Dino has an eggstraordinary appetite.

Roll the die to choose which stolen dinosaur egg to rescue first. Then carefully reach in and take out the egg, but watch out! You never know when this intimidating Dino might leap out at you for his next Dino Meal. Win the game by getting the eggs before the Dino gets you. Suitable for ages 4 and up with 2-4 players.

School holidays are made easy at Dendy Portside with Family Films including the highly anticipated ‘Despicable Me’ prequel ‘Minions’ and ‘Disney Pixar’s Inside Out’, just $8.00 per person for families. But wait, there’s more! Every family also gets a FREE large Popcorn to share! To celebrate, Dendy is giving away a family pass (4 tickets) including a large popcorn, to see a Family Film of your choice these school holidays. www.dendy.com.au

JUMPING JACK ($34.99) This super cool bunny has planted a carrot garden around his hill. The only way to get him to jump off the hill is to pick the right carrot. The youngest player starts by flicking the spinner to see how many carrots to pull from Jack's bunny hill. Play will continue until pulling out the carrot that makes Jack jump.

Catch him to win! Suitable for ages 4 and up with 2-4 players.

Both games are available 1 June at BIG W, Target, Myer, David Jones, Mr Toys & leading toy retailers. www.crownandandrews.com.au

j 2 of each game to win

j 1 Family ticket (admits 4) to win

WIN One of two embroidered Cubbie toys valued at up to $100 each.

WIN one of 5 x Family Day passes (2 adults & 4 children) to the Abbey Medieval Festival

Personalised cubbie toys are cute and cuddly animals that are customised and embroidered with your special message. Choose from a variety of design templates to create these perfect personalised keepsakes. These lovelies can be embroidered with your baby’s birth statistics such as date, time and weight or christening or baptism day details. They are suitable for first birthday gifts, first Easter or Christmas gifts, any occasion that warrants a beautiful personalised gift. Cubbie toys start at $55 and come in a range of adorable animal styles. www.myteddy.com.au

Transport yourself to a place where history and fantasy merge into a breath taking world at the Abbey Museum Medieval Festival in 2015. This premier event at the Abbey Museum in Caboolture transforms sunny Queensland into a medieval wonderland every July. Go for the exquisite detail of their re-enactment camps, cheer the jousting and falconry, gorge on the sizzling meats and fine mead, and leave with the taste of history on your lips and doublet. Their attractions beguile young and old, and won’t cost a king’s ransom. Gates open from 8.45am to 5.00pm.

Tickets are on sale now. Concessions for students, elderly and families. www. abbeymedievalfestival.com

j 2 x Embroidered Cubbie toys to win

j 5 x Family Day passes to win

Remember to join our Facebook page to enter our Facebook ONLY competitions For full competition terms and conditions and to enter, log on to:

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UPCOMING ISSUES August/September 2015

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION Advertising deadline: Monday 29 June 2015 Families Magazine – Brisbane is made with love by Janine Mergler - Editor, Regina Gleeson – Listings Editor, Lisa Bibby – Designer, Jesse Stanger – Social Intelligence and Dana Flannery-Hayes – Talk About Creative – SEO @ www.talkaboutcreative.com.au All rights are reserved.

The information contained in this publication and on our website and social media forums is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Families Magazine and its contributors as detailed on individual articles. While we endeavour to publish information that is up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the information, products, services, or related images contained in print, on our website or in our social media forums for any purpose. Information received via our publication or online should not be relied upon for personal, medical, legal or financial decisions. You should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice tailored to your need and situation.

October/November 2015

TODDLERS & CHILDCARE Advertising deadline: Monday 17 August 2015

We do not endorse contents or advertisers in our publication or on our web pages and will not responsible for any content of any linked site or any link contained in the link site. In no event shall we be liable for direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, consequential damages or any damages whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with the use of or performance of information, products, services or reliance on the contents of the advertisements.

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 10 - June/July 2015

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