Autumn Issue 2012
ISSN 1176 7952
DUNEDIN
Getting guys into the classroom
Why NZ needs more male teachers
Kids and stress
How does your child manage life’s worries?
Win Win Win!
Competitions, giveaways and vouchers
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inside this issue
Contents
From the editor
Features
I was in the car with my sister when we picked up my niece and nephew on last day of school for the year.
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4 Kids and stress
Learn how to help your kids through stressful situations.
5 Homework battle
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Comment 8 Kids’ View
We ask children all about how they ma age stress.
Special features
Win the homework war for good.
6 Getting guys into the classroom
Why are men are underrepresented in primary and early childhood education?
13 In search of dry nights
12 Birthday snaps
Quick tips on snagging party pics you’ll want to keep for years to come.
Resource information
10 Calendar of events 12 School term dates 14 The vege patch New Zealand Gardener of the Year 11 Entertainment Alan Jones gives seasonal gardening 13 Help is @ Hand 15 Marketplace advice.
Tips on toilet training your child.
They had the characteristic glow of those released from the tyranny of learning for the summer; a mixed air of relief and exhaustion, capped with the giddy excitement of Christmas just around the corner. After they threw their bags in the car with great gusto and shouted farewells to their friends I turned to my eight-year-old niece and asked her, “So, who did you get?” There had been much anticipation about who her teacher would be in the coming year. Throughout her kindergarten years and her primary years to date, she had been taught by some wonderful female teachers, but she couldn’t hide her enthusiasm when she announced: “I go Mr...” Some children in New Zealand today make it all the way to high school before they encounter their first male teacher. And while the argument that what children learn is more important than who they learn it from holds some water, there is strong evidence to suggest that a positive male role model in a teaching capacity can be very beneficial for both girls and boys. Yet only 18 per cent of primary teachers in New Zealand today are male, and just 2% of early childhood education teachers are male. That makes teaching quite possible the most segregated profession in the country. So what holds back our men from moulding the minds of the future? Is it left-over stigma from 1990s New Zealand; is it a gradual feminisation of the education system and a public perception that it’s a women’s job now; is it pay-related, or is there something else that we’re just not aware of yet? This issue our main feature investigates the
importance of male teachers and what is being done to encourage a resurgence of masculine input into children’s education. Another hot topic this issue is how children handle stress. Parents know all too well the pressures of life – from bills and relationships to deadlines and managing the family. But kids also have their worries, and while they may seem small from the eyes of an adult, they can be overwhelming for a child. This issue we ask kids how they handle stress and investigate how parents can best help them with their issues. Of course we’ve got all the regular features and competitions too, so start turning the pages for our exciting first edition of 2012. Enjoy!
Savvy kids don’t catch scams This week take some time to talk to the family about scams. These are being tramped into homes like muddy footprints. It’s time for some internet hygiene. Start by checking the expiry date on your internet security. If it’s beyond its useby date then it’s time to upgrade. Good security can stop malware and spyware from breeding in your computer. Malware and spyware are used by scammers and hackers to access your information and to use your computer as a zombie to hide their activities and to send out more scams and spam. Don’t let in creepy crawly virus technicians. Make sure everyone in the house knows that a phone call telling you that you have a virus on the computer is a scam. These people have
been calling everyone, even people who don’t have computers. Don’t share drinks or passwords or credit card numbers. Talk about why it’s important not to share passwords, even with best friends. Be careful of letting your kids play with your smart phone or iPad since some of the payment systems don’t need any extra confirmation. Teach your kids how to check out deals online. Show your kids how to check that the payment system is safe and how to spot offers that look too good to be true.
Fraud Awareness Week runs from 19-26 March. For more information on how to spot scams visit www. scamwatch.govt.nz.
About Us Publisher Robyn Willis Design & Production Moody Shokry Advert Production Target Press Production Office Editor Vanessa O’Brien Website editor
Fiona Smith
Contributing Writers
Rosanna Lister
Alan Jones Roger Wood
Advertising Sales
Caren Constable Nicky Barnett Tina Barriball
Shona Robb Jane Hunter Rachel Taniwha
Office Manager
Raelyn hay
Office Administrator
Jackie Pithie
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Distribution Printed and distributed quarterly approximately two weeks before each major school holiday. 13,083 are circulated through early childhood centres, primary and intermediate schools, The Dunedin City Event Shop, selected medical and midwifery premises and McDonalds Restaurants. The opinions expressed in this publication are not those of the publisher unless indicated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reprinted without the expressed written permission of the publisher. Family Times is not responsible for unsolicited material. Family Times is funded and published solely through the support of its advertisers. They support us, so please support them.
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What kids say about handling stress Compared with what adults face, it might seem like kids don’t have that much to stress about.
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ut kids have their own concerns — and sometimes feel stress, just as adults do. And kids’ stresses can be just as overwhelming, particularly if they don’t have effective coping strategies. A KidsHealth® KidsPoll explored what kids stress about the most, how they cope with these feelings, and what they want their parents to do about it. The poll showed that kids deal with their stresses in both healthy and unhealthy ways, and while they may not say so, they do want their parents to reach out and help them cope with their feelings. The poll underscored how important it is for parents to teach kids to recognise and express their emotions, and to use healthy ways to cope with the stress they experience. By guiding them to healthy coping skills, parents can help prepare kids to tackle whatever stresses they meet throughout their lives.
Results of the poll
We asked kids to tell us what things cause them the most stress. Kids said that they were stressed out the most by: grades, school, and homework (36%); family (32%); and friends, peers, gossip, and teasing (21%). These are the coping strategies kids said they use the most (they could give more than one response): • 52% play or do something active • 44% listen to music • 42% watch TV or play a video game • 30% talk to a friend
• • • • • •
29% try not to think about it 28% try to work things out 26% eat something 23% lose their temper 22% talk to a parent 11% cry The poll also revealed important news for parents. Though talking to parents ranked eighth on the list of most popular coping methods, 75% of the kids surveyed said they want and need their parents’ help in times of trouble. When they’re stressed, they’d like their parents to talk with them, help them solve the problem, try to cheer them up, or just spend time together.
What parents can do Notice out loud. Tell kids
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when you notice something they might be feeling (“It seems like you might still feel mad about what happened at the playground”). This shouldn’t sound like an accusation. It’s just a casual observation that you’re interested in hearing more about your child’s concern.
feel connected to you.
4Put a label on it.
Many kids do not yet have words for their feelings. If your child seems angry or frustrated, use those feeling words to help your child learn to identify the emotions by name.
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Help kids think of things to do.
Suggest activities kids can do to feel better now and to solve the problem at hand. Encourage them to think of a couple of ideas.
be 6Just there.
Sometimes kids don’t feel like talking about what’s bothering them. Try to respect that, give them space, and still make it clear that you’ll be there when they do feel like talking.
7 2 Comment briefly on the 3 feelings you think your child was experiencing as Listen to your kids. Ask
them to tell you what’s wrong. Listen attentively and calmly — with interest, patience, openness, and caring.
you listen.
For example, you might say something like: “No wonder you felt mad when they wouldn’t let you in the game.” Feeling understood and listened to helps kids
Be patient. It hurts to see your kids unhappy or worried. But try to resist the urge to fix every problem. Instead, focus on helping them grow into good problem-solvers — kids who know how to roll with life’s ups and downs, put feelings into words, calm down when needed, and bounce back to try again. Article by www.kidshealth.org.
FROM THE CREATORS OF DESPICABLE ME
IN CINEMAS MARCH 29 4
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Winning the homework battle The evening homework ritual can lead to a lot of stomping, screaming and pouting from children and parents alike.
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ome children will do anything do get out of homework. A homework assignment that might take 15 minutes turns into a two-hour battle. If you want to put a stop to homework battles, then do your homework on how to stop them for good!
Here are some tips:
• Homework can’t be completed if
assignments and books are not brought home. Work with your child to develop a good system for making sure homework assignments get home. A daily assignment sheet or an assignment notebook works well to enable your child to keep track of all assignments.
• Set up a regular time and place to do
homework. Find out which time works best for your child. It may be right after school, an hour after, or after dinner. Pick a place to do homework that is not isolated in case your child needs help, but that is also not overly noisy. Sometimes the dining room table works well.
• Get rid of the distractions. Turn off the television, turndown the music, and restrict any phone calls.
• Help your child decide which
homework to do first. They may want to start with the hardest and move to the easiest or start with the easiest and move to the harder assignments. Or, perhaps they want to attack the subjects in a certain order, such as reading, math, or writing. Offer
suggestions, but let your child decide.
• Make sure that your child understands the assignment and has all the materials needed to complete it.
• Don’t sit with your child; let them independently do their homework. Be close by in case they need help. If it is a tough math assignment maybe check the first few problems to make sure they have gotten the concepts.
• Avoid giving away the answer. Ask questions to help your child begin to think through the problem.
• Encourage your child to take a break if the going gets tough. They can have a snack, put on some music, or shoot a few baskets. Don’t let them linger too long. Then, after 15 minutes, try again.
• Check finished homework. Look for accuracy, completeness, and neatness.
• After homework is complete, make sure your child puts finished homework away immediately in their backpack.
It’s also important to:
• Go through your child’s homework folder together each day.
• Ask questions about what your child enjoys learning at school.
• Praise your child for good homework habits such as completing a difficult assignment, or completing homework without a battle!
• Ask to see graded and returned homework papers. Discuss mistakes and
• Make contact with the teacher if your child is making consistent errors in one subject area. They may need additional tutoring.
• Make sure you display papers that your
FREE TRIAL 14 – 31 May 2012
We would like to give as many children as possible the opportunity to learn with Kumon. During 14 – 31 May 2012, Kumon will be offering a Free Trial for students to experience the joy of studying with Kumon. For two weeks, you will get the chance to attend four Kumon sessions and obtain daily worksheets. Better yet, it is all FREE! So what are you waiting for? 1. Register your interest in the Free Trial at the local Kumon centre. 2. Attend a Free Trial Parent Orientation from 1 – 13 May and have your child tested in mathematics or English. 3. Your Kumon Instructor will share with you a study plan for your child. 4. Experience the unique features of the Kumon Method of learning for two weeks - FREE!
Please register your interest in the Free Trial at your local Kumon centre. Fa m i l y
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child is proud of in your home.
check for understanding.
Be firm, patient and consistent and homework battles will soon be a thing of the past.
By Veronica Scott Article Source EzineArticles.com
KUMON DUNEDIN SOUTH EDUCATION CENTRE
334 King Edward Street, Dunedin Instructor: Hanny
tel: 03 456 4131 or 0211 891 491 Call now to register for the Free Trial http://nz.kumonglobal.com
Terms and conditions • Attendance at a Parent Orientation is mandatory prior to starting the Free Trial. • The Free Trial consists of four sessions at a Kumon Centre over two weeks. • Worksheets will also be provided for non-centre days during the two weeks. • Late enrolment may result in fewer study sessions. • Class days and opening times vary between Kumon Centres. • Places are limited and acceptance for the Free Trial is on a first-come first-served basis. • Free Trial applies to new enrolments only. • Free Trial is available for one subject only (either mathematics or English).
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feature story
Getting guys back into education If you live in New Zealand, there is every chance that your child will not have a male teacher until they reach high school.
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tartling. But is it important? Education Minister Hon Hekia Parata argues that it is the effectiveness of the teacher, rather than the gender of the teacher, that makes a difference to a child’s learning. A fair claim, perhaps. After all, New Zealand has a stellar reputation for promoting equality between the sexes, particularly as it relates to the workplace. We have women CEOs, women prime ministers, and of course, women principals. We are fairly agreed that there’s no difference in the capabilities of the sexes, so is it really important if only 18 % of primary school teachers, and just 2% of early childhood education teachers, are male? These statistics make teaching one of the most gender-segregated professions in the country, and Early Childhood Council chief executive Peter Reynolds says such segregation “would not be tolerated in law or medicine.” He contends that teaching is more than just an ability to impart a knowledge of the ABCs, and that teachers also play a crucial role in the social development of children. Hence, a positive male influence in the lives of the 31% of New Zealand families that are single parented would be beneficial. “Even a small increase in numbers of male teachers would benefit thousands of children
and families,” Mr Reynolds says. “It would, for example, impact the many children who lack a reliable male figure in their lives, and especially those who have little but bad experiences of men.” United Future education spokesperson Judy Turner says the education system needs more of a gender balance that reflects society. “The debate is not whether men or women are better teachers – that is not the point. It is that we have a huge shortage of men in the education system, and boys are suffering academically and socially because of it.” Before we beat ourselves up though, it’s important to note that this underrepresentation of masculine influence in early education is not just a New Zealand trend. It’s widespread across the OECD, with New Zealand sitting slightly above the OECD average for the proportion of women in the teaching workforce – right between Finland, where the proportion is higher, and the US, where the proportion is lower. The question is, why? Ministry of Education research shows that perceptions of the career and of teachers themselves have a powerful negative impact on teaching as a career of choice. There are many misconceptions about teaching, particularly about the salary and working conditions for teachers.
COME JOIN US AT
WILD THINGS If you are looking for the best home based educator or a nanny for your children then please come join us. Wild Things is all about creating stimulating and nurturing environments that allow your children to be children.
“For the majority of people, teaching is seen as a fall-back or second option, something to be considered if other opportunities fail,” says Education Minister Parata.
recommend to other guys.” Although he believes women have an advantage in teaching because they are “natural multitaskers”, it’s a career he finds fulfilling.
That’s basically how primary teacher P Moon says he became a teacher. “My friends were going through teachers college. I had no real direction career wise and I had no job at the time, so it seemed like a good idea.”
“I like the reward that you get from building relationships not only with staff but young people and parents. No two days are the same and the school holidays are great. The teaching lifestyle is very family-friendly: whenever you’re on holiday, so are your own kids. Also, salary means you get paid
Now, it’s a career he says he would “totally
Wild Things for home-based childcare Wild Things offer a high quality and yet down to earth service. Wild Things offers Otago and Southland families a comprehensive network of the highest quality educators and nannies from its home-based early childhood care and education and nanny services. Home-based early childhood education is most suitable for those families who need care flexibility and want the stimulation of small group interaction. A small group means your child gets lots of personal attention; Wild Things keeps its home-based groups to a maximum of four children per educator, and carefully manages each environment to make sure it is safe, welcoming and child-friendly. Wild Things nannies and home-based
educators are motivated to involve children in everyday activities such as baking, making art and play groups. The small adult-to-child ratio makes it possible for the children to participate in frequent outings - guided experiences in carefully chosen and safe environments - like visits to the library, the park, or the local fire station. Wild Things is able to offer families 20 hours ECE funding from the Ministry of Education and WINZ childcare subsidies. Wild Things’ service is growing and is currently seeking educators and nannies in the Dunedin area, but also currently has spaces available for your children. Call the Wild Things team today on 0800-444-470 or visit www. wildthings.org.nz.
Wild Things has been delivering early childhood education and care to children in the Lower South Island since 1999. Whatever your early childhood care and education needs, call Wild Things today to discuss how we can help you manage the Wild Thing in your life.
www.wildthings.org.nz 0800 44 44 70 where children can be children 6
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whether you’re on holiday or not, and there are management opportunities if you are ambitious.” The Ministry of Education is working on a new promotion strategy for teacher recruitment that focuses on lifting the status of teaching and increasing the diversity of the teaching workforce, including the proportion of men. Nelson Tasman Kindergartens CEO Wendy Logan says it can’t come soon enough. In the absence of a centralised male recruitment push, they have been making an effort to make kindergartens “bloke friendly” through dad and daughter nights, bloke-only groups, and by encouraging dads with food and coffee. “Positive male role models in the lives of young children, boys in particular, are essential for the development of ongoing social competency and a sense of collective identity,” she says. “We are making a concerted effort to attract males to the early childhood sector.” Wellington Kindergarten Association general manager Amanda Coulston says it is the social aspect that has really made a difference in the lives of kids in Wellington kindergartens. The association ran a pilot programme that saw young men employed in untrained positions alongside current centre staff. Coulston says the difference was phenomenal, especially for the boys. “One of the really powerful things for the boys is that they see themselves reflected in the young men. The families of the kids have been really positive about it too, and we’ve noticed now that the young fathers spend more time in the kindergarten engaging with the young men rather than just dropping the kids off.” One unexpected outcome of the pilot is that six out of the eight young men who participated have decided to enter early childhood education teacher training. That in itself was completely unexpected,
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says Coulston. But what was even more unexpected was that a few fathers of kindergarten children decided to pursue teacher training also. “It’s breaking down barriers so that people actually see that early childhood is a valued option and an important place to be. We are doing our children an injustice by not encouraging men to be involved.” Early Childhood Council CEO Reynolds says a recent early childhood conference highlighted that many families would like more men teaching their under fives, and a lack of male teachers in the primary sector too often “quarantined children from all but the most destructive of males.” He believes, and is backed up by Ministry of Education research, that young men are discouraged from teaching in early childhood and primary school roles because they are vulnerable to false accusations of improper practice or abuse in teaching situations. “But the worst of that nonsense is over,” he says, “and there is now a renewed desire from both families and centres for there to be many more men working in the early childhood sector.” ChildForum early childhood expert Dr Sarah Farquhar says it’s “unhelpful” to revisit thoughts of 1990s paedophile hysteria that have been put to rest within the sector a long time ago. Instead, she says, it’s important to focus on creative ways of attracting men back to teaching. “There are many men who might consider a job in childcare given the right encouragement, particularly fathers and older men who might be thinking about a career change but who may not be able to spend three or four years obtaining a qualification without work.”
By Vanessa O’Brien
Interested in teaching? Here is some information from www. teachnz.govt.nz to get you on track.
Essential skills In order to be an effective teacher in New Zealand, you must have a commitment to, and understanding of, the importance of Maori and Pasifika language, culture and identity. As a teacher you will be involved in creating an education system that supports all young people to excel, whatever education pathway they choose. You will recognise their aspirations, nurture their talents, and share in their expectations of success. You will appreciate their differences, and seek ways to create a culture of respect and understanding in your classroom. Teachers and whanau believe, and research tells us, that young people do best when their families and whanau are actively involved in their schools. So as a teacher you will come into daily contact with people from a range of cultures and all walks of life. That is the beauty of teaching. It is an opportunity to learn as much as to teach, and to give something back to the community you live in. In doing so, you will demonstrate that educational success is real and achievable for everybody.
What will you be paid? The starting salary for a primary school teacher with a Bachelor’s teaching degree is $45,568. In order to progress up the salary scale the teacher must demonstrate that they have met the applicable professional standard. Each school’s board of trustees (most often delegated to the school principal)
must attest that the teacher has met this standard. Teachers can progress up to a maximum rate of $67,413 after seven years’ service. Schools can also allocate one or more “units” to teachers in management positions or to those with extra responsibilities. Each unit is worth $4000 and is paid on top of a teacher’s base salary. Higher qualifications, such as a subject or specialist degree held in addition to a teaching qualification, lead to higher starting levels and enable progression to the top of the primary teachers’ salary scale, being $70,877. The current starting salary for a secondary school teacher with a NQF level 7 subject or specialist qualification (the qualification must have at least 72 credits at level 7) and a teacher education qualification is $47,023. In order to progress up the salary scale the teacher must demonstrate that they have met the applicable professional standard. Each school’s board of trustees (most often delegated to the school principal) must attest that the teacher has met this standard. Teachers can progress up to a top rate of $71,000 after seven years’ service. Secondary schools can also allocate “units” to teachers in management positions or to those with extra responsibilities. Each unit is worth $4000 and is paid on top of a teacher’s base salary. Higher subject or specialist qualifications lead to higher starting salary enabling progression to the top of the scale sooner.
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What are some good ways to deal with stress? Rosanna Lister asked students from St Peter Chanel School what stresses them out and how they deal with it.
Sophie King, age 10
Performing on stage or for a dance exam gets me really stressed my heart is racing and my hands are shaking and I have to sit down and chill out or I go ballistic. When I’m stressed I have to tell myself to calm down. Sometimes it helps to ask yourself “Do I really want/ need to do this?” and sometimes maybe you can do something different. To stress down a friend I try to take them somewhere quiet.
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Holli Kennedy, age 10
Sophie helps me a lot when I’m stressed: she takes me outside and tells me to calm down or have a drink of water. Sometimes she gives me a big hug and that helps a lot! Exercise can help - like in the holidays when I’m not doing my sports I feel different and I get bored and fidgety. Laughing can help you feel better too or talking to your Mum and Dad and asking them for advice.
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Logan Pearce, age 10
Maths stresses me out! Things get mixed up in my head and I feel confused. Sometimes little annoying things can stress you out like the light bulb in my room that doesn’t work properly. If someone is stressed then I distract them or make them laugh. When I’m stressed I take a deep breath, hold it and count to 10 then breathe out. If I am in a play then I imagine there is no-one in the crowd.
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Anton Stuck, age 10
Things that stress me out are going on stage, my sisters, doing tests or when you haven’t done your homework. When I heard about this interview I was a bit stressed! I talked to my teacher about it and I felt a lot better. Once a friend was really upset, I went in the class and wrote a note and put it in her desk for her to read later.
Great giveaways Early Childhood Centre for autumn…....
ENROLLING NOW Come and meet our friendly teachers and view our beautiful new playground
Tekapo Springs
Alpine Springs is changing its name to Tekapo Springs on 1 April and is giving you the opportunity to come and see what makes it a great family attraction! It’s open from 10am-9pm 364 days a year and offers the choice of soaking in one of three outdoor hot pools overlooking the lake, skating on a full sized rink (roller until the end of March and ice from early April) or letting gravity take you down New Zealand’s first summer tube ride! The winter snow tube will open mid-June. Enter now for a pass for two adults and three children (up to 18 years) to spend a whole day trying out all of these activities! With a licensed café on site, you won’t even have to pack lunch! www.tekaposprings.co.nz
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SPYKIDS4: All the Time in the World
OPEN 7:30am - 6:00pm For more information or to enrol your child... Phone: (03) 455 3337 or visit us on: www.littlewonderschildcare.co.nz 88
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On the surface, Marissa Cortez Wilson (Jessica Alba) has it all; married to a famous spy-hunting television reporter, a new baby and intelligent twin step kids. But in reality, trying to mother Rebecca (Rowan Blanchard) and Cecil (Mason Cook), who clearly don’t want her around, is her toughest challenge yet. Also, her husband, Wilbur (Joel McHale), wouldn’t know a spy if he lived with one which is exactly the case - Marissa’s a retired secret agent. Helped by some mindblowing gadgets, they just may be able to save the world. Available at all good DVD retailers. Enter now to win one of 10 copies of this DVD from Roadshow. Fa m ily T i mTimes es Family
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The Family Times Design Competition It’s Autumn! Leaves are turning golden and falling, the mornings are chilly, it’s getting darker and firewood is being stacked ready for winter. This issue we would love to see a drawing of your favourite things about Autumn. Draw it for us, and be in to win a $30 prize pack from Crayola! Three entry age groups: preschool (age 1-4), 5-8, 9-12.
“I don’t know how she does it” on DVD One for the mums! Kate Reddy devotes her days to her job with a Boston-based financial management firm. At night she goes home to her adoring architect husband Richard and their two young children. It’s a non-stop balancing act. When Kate gets handed a major new account that will require frequent trips to New York, Richard also wins the new job he’s been hoping for— and both will be spreading themselves even thinner. Complicating matters is Kate’s charming new business associate Jack Abelhammer. Based on the critically acclaimed bestseller by Allison Pearson. Enter now to win “I don’t know how she does it” on DVD from Roadshow.
Create your design on an A5 sheet or download the template and entry form from www.familytimes.co.nz. Post in to PO Box 36 004, Christchurch 8146. Entries close on 22 April 2012.
Dr Seuss’ THE LORAX From the creators of Despicable Me and the imagination of Dr. Seuss comes the 3D-CG feature Dr. Seuss’ THE LORAX. The animated adventure opens on 29 March and follows the journey of a 12-year-old as he searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To find it he must discover the story of the Lorax, the grumpy yet charming creature who fights to protect his world. Family Times has 10 double passes to Dr. Seuss’ THE LORAX and 10 activity books courtesy of Harper Collins to give away.
------------------------------------------------------------------Congratulations to our Jandal design poster competition winners from our last issue and thanks to the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetu for their help with judging. Winners are: Lorenzo Tetley from Te Titahi Bay, one – four years(right)
WIN,WIN,
Theodore Hua from Christchurch, five – eight years (left)
WIN
Umain Ahmed from Orewa, nine – 12 years (middle)
The Meridian season of Angelina Ballerina’s big audition Angelina loves to dance and dreams of becoming a famous ballerina. Miss Lilly is her ballet teacher and Alice Nimbletoes, her best friend - characters that cannot fail to charm with their love of colour and pretty costumes. In this production Angelina prepares for her most important performance ever in front of the Camembert Academy judges. Definitely one for all those budding ballerinas. Enter now to win an adult and child ticket for 12 April, at 10.30am, ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre. Entries close 3rd of April
Battlefield Wisdom by Nigel Latta Somehow, somewhere parenting has become far too complicated and serious. Battlefield Wisdom is the perfect antidote. From Nigel Latta, respected clinical psychologist, media commentator, parenting expert, bestselling author and father of two, comes a brand new book that will help all New Zealand parents. Battlefield wisdom shares Latta’s top tips for bringing up children that can be used by busy parents, everyday. Family Times has five copies of Battlefield Wisdom to give away.
Puss in Boots on DVD Way before Puss ever met Shrek, our suave and furry feline hero goes on a swashbuckling ride, as he teams with mastermind Humpty Dumpty and the street-savvy Kitty Softpaws to steal the famed goose that lays the golden eggs. Released onto DVD and Blu-ray from 11 April. Family Times has five copies of Puss in Boots on DVD to give away.
WIN,WIN,
WIN
Just tick the things you want to win Autumn 2012
Munchkin nappy disposal The Munchkin Nappy Disposal system uses innovative technology, including a unique hygiene vent that dispenses baking soda, to neutralise odours before a self-sealing system tightly locks away bad smells. The automated system can be operated with one hand – leaving your other hand free to look after your bub! The system is available at all Baby City stores. Family Times has four Munchkin Nappy Systems - including a refill bag pack - to give away.
Fa m i l yTimes Times Family
Munchkin Nappy Disposal System Tekapo Springs Dr Seuss THE LORAX Angelina Ballerina
Battlefield Wisdom Spykids4 Puss in Boots I don’t know how she does it
Name Address City Phone To be in the draw to win, enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz or write your name and address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: Dunedin Competition, P O Box 36 004, Christchurch to reach us by 22nd April 2012, unless stated otherwise. Only one entry per household. www.familytimes.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz
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cool activities
Calendar of Events Autumn promises to be fun and filled with a huge variety of events to entertain all members of the family, so wrap up and head out! 1 April Rugby Road Show: Heaps of fun activities for everyone in the family – especially the rugby fans. The Oval, Princes Street, 10am2pm, free, for full details visit www.allblacks. com.
6-9 April Gypsy Fair: Enjoy live entertainment, food stalls, pony rides and mini bikes, and browse through the fabulous selection of handcrafts. The Oval, Princes Street, 9am-5pm daily.
7 April Highlanders v Stormers:Make the most of home games with the “take a kid to the highlanders” promotion; free face painting and kids receive a snack pack for the game.
Create, record, play
Blue Line Music Studio is a contemporary music tutoring company devoted to teaching young people how to create, record and play music. The talented and experienced staff offer lessons in guitar, drums, bass guitar, keyboard and piano, voice, theory - and even ukulele! This year Blue Line Music Studio has moved to a new venue on Filleul Street (opposite the back entrance to Wall Street Mall). Complete with classrooms, recording facilities, and band practice spaces, the venue is convenient and ideal for music lessons, workshops, holiday
Forsyth Barr Stadium, 7.35pm, for more info visit www.thehighlanders.co.nz.
12 April Balloon Man: Save up your puff and create crazy balloon people. Bookings essential. Mosgiel Library, 2pm-3pm, free, 03-4743690.
17 April Have a go- knitting and weaving: Learn the basics of how to knit, crochet and weave, suitable for ages seven plus, bookings essential. Dunedin City Library, morning session 10am-12pm, afternoon 1pm-3pm, free, 03-474-3690.
19 April Kid’s Bingo: Match up the numbers and programmes and much more. Beginner keyboard classes for primary school students will start in term two and a range of free workshops in song-writing, recording and performing will be held weekly for intermediate and high school students. Holiday programmes will run, and lessons will continue as normal. Register online for lessons and term one holiday programmes in song-writing and recording (years five-13), 12, 13, 16 and 20 April. Email info@bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz or visit www.bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz.
shout Bingo! Limited numbers, please phone to book. Mosgiel Library, 2pm-3pm, 03474-3690.
25 April Anzac Day Service: Get the family up early to attend the Anzac dawn service to remember and celebrate our fallen heroes. On at 6am, Queen’s Garden Cenotaph.
Spend a colourful day at the Gypsy Fair this Easter.
www.regenttheatre.co.nz.
13 May
5 June
Mother’s Day special: Take the family for a day at the aquarium with half price family entry. Dunedin Aquarium, 10am-4.30pm, 03-479-5826 or visit www.marine.ac.nz.
Story telling - a story of Matariki: Enjoy Matariki storytelling and craft activities for the whole family. Orokonui Ecosanctuary, ODT learning centre, 1pm-3.30pm, gold coin donation, 03-482-1755.
23 – 25 May Suessical the Musical: The characters and stories of Dr Suess come to life on stage in an entertaining musical performed by Bayfeild High School. Westpac Mayfair Theatre.
25 – 26 May Star Regent 24 hour book sale: Be entertained all night long and pick up some great bargains browsing through thousands of books. Regent Theatre, 12pm – 12pm,
6 June Manu Aute-traditional kite making: Make and fly a traditional Maori kite using natural resources as part of Matariki celebrations. Orokonui Ecosanctuary, ODT learning Centre 12.30pm-3pm, gold coin donation, 03-482-1755.
16 June OpShop annual fabric sale: Stock up the activity box with craft books, fabrics and materials to keep the kids busy all through winter. Burns Hall, First Church, 415 Moray Place, 11am-2pm, 03-471-8249.
23 June
NEW STUDIO OPEN NOW!
Dunedin Midwinter Carnival: Embrace the cold and join in the vibrant celebrations at this much-loved annual event. Octagon, 5.30pm onwards, free, www. midwintercarnival.co.nz. Compiled by Rosanna Lister
Record Your Own Music Wanna learn music? Wanna learn to record? Come on down to our new studio. 42 Filleul Street, Dunedin (opposite Wall Street Mall) Please see our website or call/text us for more info Contact Us 03 425 0706 info@bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz
www.bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz A DEPARTMENT OF THE DUNEDIN CITY COUNCIL
AND BESTVALUE DIGITAL Our own oasis in the city A celebration of our Chinese culture and heritage, it is the only authentic scholar’s garden in the southern hemisphere
Visit the teahouse for coffee, traditional tea and snacks A range of family
friendly activities available Explore a garden full of culture that tells a story at every corner
A range of unique
gifts to purchase at the Tea Shop
Open Daily 10.00am - 5.00pm • Admission Charges Apply Cnr Cumberland & Rattray Sts (beside Otago Settlers Museum)
Ph 03 477 3248 10 www.familytimes.co.nz
3D PRICES!
2 SMALL POPCORNS FOR $5 ANYTIME!
#
Present this voucher at Rialto Cinemas to purchase two small popcorns for only $5 - save $4! Limit one per customer. Valid until 30 April 2012. Fa m i l y
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Entertainment Delight the whole family and keep everyone entertained with these fantastic local attractions. Otago Museum Be inspired, enlightened and excited at the Otago Museum these holidays. Get hands-on in Discovery World, and then explore the natural paradise of the Tropical Forest. Visit www. otagomuseum. govt.nz or phone 03-474-7474.
cool activities
Family physical activities Autumn is the perfect pre-season time to start training for winter sports. Make the most of it with these events and resources.
Sport Otago
If you haven’t signed up for a winter sport yet then check out the huge index of sports clubs in Dunedin. There is something to interest every family member. Visit www. sportotago.co.nz to find a sport.
Rugby League Community Roots Carnival
Enjoy a fun morning designed to get the community involved in rugby league. Enjoy a free breakfast, coaching lessons for parents/ teachers, rugby league activities for kids plus meet Ruben Wiki! On 29 April at Kings High School, 9am-12.30pm, free. Compiled by Rosanna Lister
MoveMe
Get the family active and log-on to MoveMe Dunedin on facebook. To find out all the upcoming local sporting events and activities, visit www.facebook.com/#!/ MoveMeDunedin or search MoveMe Dunedin from your facebook page.
The Edgar Centre The Edgar Centre is again home to the Oceana Gold Nuggets Basketball team in 2012. What a great night’s entertainment for the family, and very affordable with prices starting at $5.
The Lorax
Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax is an adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ classic tale about the enduring power of hope. In Cinemas from 29 March, starring the voice talents of Zach Efron and Taylor Swift. A must see!
Holiday specials
The Meridian season of Angelina Ballerina’s big audition
Tell our advertiser you saw it in...
Angelina loves to dance and dreams of becoming a famous ballerina. In this production Angelina prepares for her most important performance ever in front of the Camembert Academy judges. Enter now to win an adult and child ticket for 4 May, at 10.30am, Regent Theatre, Dunedin.
Get out and about in Dunedin these autumn school holidays, enjoy the changing colours or dive into some aquatic fun!
Dunedin Chinese Gardens We love our goldfish so you can help feed them, or you can adopt one of your own and release them into our pond. There will be costumes to dress up in, puzzles to try, and we’ll be running our dragon hunt again!
Swim fx work on your swimming skills with a holiday block intensive course 10-14 and 16-20 April. Contact Sue Maclaurin, 03-477-1730
or email swimfx@clear.net.nz. Compiled by Rosanna Lister
Low – medium intensity strength & cardio based group fitness training, building self esteem & confidence . Bring your child along for a healthy affordable dose of FUN physical acABity. Boys & Girls Ages 7 to 11 – Tue &/or Thur (3.30 5ll 4.159m) Ages 12 to 16 – Mon &/or WeA (3.30 5ll 4.159m) Enroll NOW
Term 2: April 23rd – June 29th $100p/p training once a week $200p/p training twice a week
Contact: Alana & Mike PH: (03) 454 4460 Email: amifit@hotmail.com ‘The BUNKER’ 71 Maclaggan St Dunedin
Visit: www.amifit.co.nz
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11
parties
Take great pics of your child’s birthday I’ve been asked by parents of children to photograph their birthday parties on numerous occasions and each time it has been a lot of fun.
P
hotographing children isn’t always easy – and photographing “the birthday party” presents its own unique opportunities and challenges as a photographer. Here are a few tips on photographing children’s parties:
1 2 3
Give someone the job and
release that person from other party duties to just take photos. This way you’re guaranteed to get some shots and will have something to remember the day with.
Get a child’s perspective
One of the most important tips I can share is to get down low when taking photos of children. The majority of your photos should be taken at eye level of the subjects you’re shooting.
Mix it up
Try some shots from standing up high (get on a chair even to accentuate it – this can be great for group shots) but also get down really low and shoot looking up at kids. Also try a range of focal lengths ranging from wide angle shots that take in the whole party scene through to zoomed shots of kids and party elements.
4
Look for the party details Another way to add interest to the shots is to focus in on the details of
the party. I find that many of these shots are best taken before the guests arrive and might include shots of the cake, photos of balloons and other decorations, photos of presents stacked, shots of a set party table. Often it’s good to get in nice and close to these elements. You’ll find that these types of shots look great scattered through an album between shots of people.
5
Know the party plan
In order to capture all of the important moments in the party you should know how it is planned to run. Know when everyone will be sitting down, when the blowing out of candles will happen, when presents will be opened etc. This will mean you can be well positioned for each event just ahead of it happening.
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Shoot candidly
Most of your party photos will end up being candid ones of children and adults interacting with one another around the different party activities. I tend to take quite a few shots from the edge of the party using a longer zoom lens, also get into the party and shoot from within it with a wideangle lens.
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Planned shots
Think ahead about what type of “must have” sort of shots you want from the party. These might include some group shots, cake shots, blowing out candles, opening presents, party games etc. Monday 23 April to Friday 29 June
ol o h c S Terms Date
2, BirthdTerm 2012 ays Monday 23 April to Friday 29 June
8
Take before and after shots
It’s amazing to see how a room (and people) can be transformed in just an hour or two when you have a group of children in it. Include shots of the birthday boy or girl when they are dressed up and looking (and behaving) at their best, as well as a few shots at the end of the party – they could make a humorous comparison series with your before shots.
9
Include adults in your photos
generally the children – but the adults attending the party can present you with some great shots. Sometimes their reactions to what the children are doing can be quite fascinating and it’s worth including photographing them.
By Darren Rowse Darren Rowse is the editor and founder of Digital Photography School. He lives in Melbourne Australia and is also the editor of the ProBlogger Blog Tips and TwiTip Twitter Tips blogs.
The focus of children’s parties is
Term 3, 2012 Monday 16 July to Friday 28 September
Ca4,le2012 Term ndar
Holiday programmes Tuesday 15 October to no later than Friday 14 December
Term 1, 2013
Term 3, 2012
Between Monday 28 January and Thursday 7 February to 19 April
2012 public holidays remaining
Monday 16 July to Friday 28 September
Term 4, 2012
Calendar Term 1, 2013
Between Monday 28 January and Thursday 7 February to 19 April
ay
Holid secondary 2012/2013 es and ammterm progrschool composite dates Term 2, 2012 WIN, WIN, WIN!
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Good Friday - 6 April Easter Monday - 9 April Day after Easter Monday - 10 April (Tuesday) Anzac Day - 25 April Queen’s Birthday - 4 June (Monday) Labour Day - 22 October (Monday) Entertainment Christmas Day - 25 December Boxing Day - 26 December
Entertainment
Monday 15 October to no later than Thursday 20 December
PERFECT GIFTS FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES!
Aximusam qui bearum quod excepta ecabor molor mos apictusdae mintius erum nobis dolorero eum sundi reri rat pelloreium enducid moluptiorrum aci velignis atquatem. IpsumExerit, inimus ad quam, tem qui sunte volupta verunt expercia consed et quaspidi dem vernatur sint pelessimendi quo cus et quame nobite parum quia nat ulliquis dolores sundisqui idus
Aximusam qui bearum quod excepta ecabor molor mos apictusdae mintius erum nobis dolorero eum sundi reri rat pelloreium, od enducid moluptiorrum aci velignis atquatem. IpsumExerit, inimus ad quam, tem qui sunte volupta verunt expercia consed et quaspidi dem vernatur sint pelessimendi quo cus et quame nobite parum quia nat ulliquis do-
Toys, puzzles, books and more – the Museum Shop has your birthday party presents all wrapped up!
OTAGO MUSEUM SHOP 419 Great King St, Dunedin OPEN 7 DAYS, 9am – 5pm www.otagomuseum.govt.nz 12 www.familytimes.co.nz
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In search of dry nights If your four-year old is wetting the bed, try not to worry about it too much. Bedwetting is not considered a problem until seven years. Luckily, this is a good age to talk it over with your little one and start trying the bedwetting solutions below.
Practical bedwetting Solutions for Children
• Ideally, their room should be close to a
Try these tested and proven solutions to stop bedwetting in young children: • Offer plenty of fluids during the day, aiming for six – seven water-based drinks at regular intervals. • Establish a good daytime routine for going to the bathroom, say every three – four hours. • Don’t let them have caffeinated drinks such as chocolate and fizzy drinks before bedtime as these can speed up the rate at which urine is produced. • Sticking to a regular bedtime can help with training a child to empty their bladder at an appropriate time each evening. • Encourage him or her to have a wee just before bed. If they have trouble going, turn on the tap for an inspiring tinkling of water, or give them a small ice-cube or a sip or two of iced water. • Cuddle, praise and reward them when they go to the bathroom and also when they have a dry night. • Use an alarm clock to wake your child at a set time during the night so they can get up and go to the toilet. Place their dressing gown within easy reach on cold nights. • Make sure the path to the toilet is light and free of obstacles.
•
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toilet. If it’s a bit of a trek to the bathroom, they could have a potty in their room. A bedwetting alarm may work for your child. Some people suggest restricting fluids at night time but this isn’t proven to work.
Love and laughter go a long way Did you or someone in your family wet the bed as a child? If so, make your bedwetting incidents into funny stories to tell your child. Having a giggle about Mummy or Daddy or a glamorous Auntie or a blokey Uncle wetting the bed could help prevent your little one from feeling bad about their bedwetting. Also, remember to be patient and loving when there’s an accident. Your child can’t help it. This could be a difficult time for them and they need you to help and reassure them until the bedwetting solutions work.
Article courtesy of www.drynites. co.nz. DryNites website specialises in bedwetting and understands how difficult this time can be for both parents and children. Check out the website for more information on enuresis, self-esteem in children and read others bedwetting stories. Visit www.drynites.co.nz.
support services
Help is @ hand
Sometimes you need some information or an answer to a curly question. Why not pick up the phone and call the relative support agency? You’ll find professional caring people ready to assist you.
Citizens Advice Bureau
Phone: 0800 367 222 or 03-471 6166 For free information advice and support that is confidential and impartial.
Dunedin Budget Advisory Service
Phone: 03-471 6158 Free confidential advice on family budgets
and options for debt.
Disability Information Service
Free disability and health related information. Phone: 03-471 6152 or 0800-693 342 E-mail:dis.dn@xtra.co.nz www.disabilityinfo.co.nz
SF Otago - supporting families in mental illness What is SF Otago? SF Otago provides a variety of services to family/whanau/caregivers, primarily in the form of support, information and advocacy.
What does it do? Support:
Fieldworkers can provide support
and advocacy to families/whanau/ caregivers at a place considered appropriate by the family. Family support group sessions are held regularly in Balclutha and Dunedin. This provides family/whanau/ caregivers with the opportunity for mutual support, sharing experiences and gaining of strength to cope with daily living. Children’s support, education and activity groups.
Information:
Fieldworkers can provide information
to family/whanau/caregivers about mental illness, treatment options, accommodation, medications, relevant legislation and mental health services in Otago. Family group education seminars and workshops are held regularly in Dunedin. Mental health promotion. SF fieldworkers are able to provide education to groups and organisations in the community about mental illness and the family/whanau/caregiver experience, and SF has a library of books for loan. SF also offers a service that supports people with a mental illness in the form of a “clubhouse” where they can come for support and to take part in activities as they would in normal employment.
www.familytimes.co.nz
13
healthy living
The vege patch with Jonesy Winter has us in its grip now, so your winter veggie patch should be all sorted.
Quality counts, says New Zealand’s oldest honey company
Canterbury-based Airborne Honey, the country’s oldest honey company, says questions about the pollen count of some New Zealand honey need to be asked.
The Brussels sprouts will have small sprouts on them. Keep on top of the aphids by washing them off with the hose. The leeks need to have the soil pushed up around them (moulded up) to make nice, long, white leeks and they love some liquid fertiliser.
A recent US survey found that 75 per cent of American honey was processed to the point that it lost its health benefits and traceability. Airborne Honey chief executive Peter Bray says the problem isn’t just limited to that part of the world. “Honey that’s been ultra filtered to remove impurities and keep it from crystallising quickly leads to other problems. There are other ways to keep honey pure, that also retain its natural properties and the ability to know where it came from. Those two things are so very important to New Zealand’s image as a supplier of fresh, untouched food.”
It’s not too late to plant silver beet, spinach, kale and also broccoli and cauliflower plants to keep that great supply of winter veges going for your family or for other families that might enjoy any surplus. If you have pumpkins, leave to grow as long as possible: pick after the first frost, and remember to cut them with a good stem still on and put them in a nice warm place with plenty of air around them to dry. Parsnips can be dug after tops have dried off. They have their best flavour after one or two frosts. Prepare them and freeze them for use later. It saves digging in the cold winter mud when you want a parsnip for dinner. Yams form when tops die off so better left in the garden and dig them as required. Potatoes that you planted in January will be ready to eat as new potatoes. It’s a good time now to plant celery for those veggie soups in the cold of winter. Pick a nice, sunny spot under the eaves of the house where frosts can’t get them and you will have celery all winter. Whatever you cook, all stocks are made of celery, carrot and onion, to which you add more vege, cereal or meat. As your garden becomes empty after the summer harvest, it is time to dig in the compost that you have made from garden waste and lawn clippings. Once dug in, you can sow some oat seed or lupin seed and leave for winter. This is a good way to fix nitrogen in the soil for next season. Any farm or stable manure must be well rotted before you apply it. These manures
Warm up for winter with Davies Heat‘n’Cool
Davies Heat ‘n’ Cool is a long established, locally owned and operated heating specialist ready to help increase your family’s comfort and wellbeing right now. Davies is proud of its involvement as an approved service provider for the Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart Programme, helping to make Otago homes warmer, drier and more energy efficient. Grants for approved heat pumps are available for all homeowners - for houses built before 2000. Davies offers a variety of payment options. Visit Davies Heat‘n’Cool at 1 Donald St, just off Kaikorai Valley Road, phone 03488-4088 or email daviesheating@xtra. co.nz.
14 www.familytimes.co.nz
are rich in nitrogen and other much needed trace elements. Chook and pigeon manure is also rich in potash and potassium, which is vital for good fruiting and flowers. These are a few jobs to do to keep the soil in good health so your veggie plot is ready for you to enjoy next spring.
Alan Jones (Jonesy) is the 2010 New Zealand Gardener of the Year. He looks after Leeston Consolidated School’s veggie gardens and keeps school parents up-to-date with tips for home gardens.
Mr Bray says most New Zealand consumers are probably unaware that some honey is processed in this way. “The reality is that so much natural food is significantly altered today. We’d like to see tougher regulations around labelling.” Airborne Honey has brought together a century of honey
making experience with sophisticated processing and testing facilities to offer a consistently high quality, traceable product. Its unique “Honest, Undamaged and Traceable” labelling tells the customer exactly which variety of honey is in each jar and precisely where it came from, right back to the drum of honey in an apiary. “We’re a family owned business still going strong after more than a century because we’re able to guarantee what’s in each jar we sell,” says Mr Bray. “We’re simply calling for the enforcement of these same standards industry wide.”
Harraways oats – the perfect winter treat
Winter is a great time to get your kids in the kitchen and encourage them to cook snacks, baking and meals. Encouraging children to explore fun natural breakfast foods is an easy way to start. Oats make a simple and quick hot and tasty porridge and you can have fun adding spices, fruit and yoghurt. Scotch Oat Hotcakes or Harraways Oat Waffles are fun to make and eat; these foods keep well and are great in lunch boxes or as an afterschool snack. Oats can be used in many dishes: consider oats the healthy alternative to breadcrumbs and check out the Harraways meatballs recipe at www. harraways.co.nz. In fact, oats can be used in many dishes - such as stews and
casseroles - to make expensive ingredients go further. Increasing the use of oats in daily meals and baking is also an easy way to increase dietary fibre levels for your family. School students, watch out for the New Zealand Food Week 7-13 May. You can win great prizes like an iPod touch by sending in your favourite family meal recipe. Visit http://www.justcook.co.nz/ Don’t forget to check out www. harraways.co.nz for more exciting recipes and ideas on how to add more fibre into your diet, and connect with Harraways on Facebook.
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The Lowdown on Scooting Scooting doesn’t cost much and you can: • chat to your friends • move independently • be fast • have fun • be more active
People usually ride scooters either on the footpath (‘on-road’) or in a playground (‘off-road’). There are different ways for you to stay safe in these different places. Playgrounds
Footpath
1. Make sure your scooter is put together properly – read the instructions and tighten the bolts, nuts and screws
1. Stay on the footpath – cars and scooters don’t mix! If you need to cross the road, do it safely – use your eyes, use your ears, before you use your feet. When it’s safe, push your scooter across quickly
2. Wear a helmet – it helps protect your head if you fall off 3. Other safety gear is a good idea too – wrist, elbow and knee pads are good protection 4. Make sure the scooter fits you – little children can get scooters with two wheels at the back for more balance 5. Look after your friends – encourage them to take things slowly while they’re learning 6. Wear sturdy shoes – sandals and flip-flops can get caught up and you can stub your toes 7. Learn on the flat before you tackle hills – speed wobbles are hard to control 8. Keep an eye out for bumpy or sandy ground and puddles - even little bumps can stop your front wheel. Scope out your ride before you start and keep looking ahead
2. Be visible – A high visibility vest means drivers can see you more easily 3. Stay away from the traffic – scooter on the side of the footpath away from the cars and watch out for sneaky driveways 4. Slow down – don’t go as fast as you can because people can change direction suddenly and cars can pull out of driveways so you need to be able to stop 5. Get your parents to talk about safety concerns and explain why you must follow the rules. If you know the hazards and what could happen, the rules will make more sense
Why the focus on scooting? School students want to scooter! School travel planning work shows scooting is growing rapidly in popularity in the region and nationally. Dunedin City Council and Sport Otago surveys also show that nearly half of students want to cycle or scooter to school and that parents want their children to have cycle training. The DCC and Police are piloting a cycle skills training programme with East Taieri School in terms one and two this year to give the students better road safety awareness and increase their skills.
The instructors are teaching off-and on-road skills, including hand signals and stopping. East Taieri students have also been looking at road safety as they travel to and from school. In this picture Strider, the road safety mascot, and a group of East Taieri students are at the junction of Gladstone Road South and Gordon Road. The New Zealand Transport Agency has installed partial pedestrian protection at the crossing so pedestrians can start crossing before vehicles get the green light to turn. Pedestrians are safer because they are in the line of vision for drivers.
Contact Charlotte Flaherty, DCC Safe and Sustainable Travel Co-ordinator for more information about the cycle skills training on 03 477 4000 or charlotte.flaherty@dcc.govt.nz.
www.dunedin.govt.nz 16 www.familytimes.co.nz
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