Caring for New ZealaNd’s Kids
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Cyber-kids:
how modern technology affects today’s children
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Winter wellness
Dr Libby Weaver’s top tips
A news magazine and online resource for families
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DUNEDIN / ISSUE 56 / Winter 2013
HOW THE PANDAS CAME TO DUNEDIN
Learn about the
GIANT PANDA at the Dunedin Chinese Garden JOIN US IN THE PANDA HUNT AROUND THE GARDEN TO WIN PRIZES�–�TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE WITH OUR PANDA QUIZ�–�ENTER OUR PANDA NAMING COMPETITION
Brother Panda and Sister Panda woke up one morning and played together while they ate their breakfast of bamboo shoots and water from the river. “Brother, where does the river go?” asked Sister Panda.
NAM E US!
“I don’t know” said Brother Panda. They asked Mother Panda and she said “The river goes down the side of the mountain, through the forest, around the rocks and out to the sea.” “Wow!” said Brother Panda. “That’s such a long way from where we live at the top of the snowy mountains!” “What does the sea look like?” asked Sister Panda. “The sea is very long, and very wide, and very deep. It’s like a giant lake that swirls, and changes and flows and moves with the wind and the moon” replied Mother Panda. “Have you ever been to the sea, Mother?” asked Brother Panda. “No Brother Panda, it is far, far away from here” replied Mother Panda.
N WI ES! IZ PR
Brother Panda and Sister Panda were curious about the sea, and wanted to know if indeed it was as Mother Panda had described. So they hatched a plan to follow the river down the side of the mountain, through the forest, around the rocks to see if the sea was as their Mother had said. Both Pandas were very excited, and hardly slept a wink that night.
PANDA NAME COMPETITION The Giant Panda is an endangered species, whose survival is threatened by long-term habitat loss and a very low birthrate, both in the wild and in captivity. While there are no Giant Pandas in New Zealand, the Dunedin Chinese Garden is very happy to announce the addition of two new cuddly friends that look just like real ones! These Giant Pandas look just like their living cousins, with white furry bodies and black fur on their ears, eye patches, muzzles, legs and shoulders. The naming competition is open during the July school holidays. There are two prizes, one for the male name, and the other for the female name. Entries must be relevant to the Panda’s native country of China. The winner/s will receive a Giant Panda prize pack which includes a hardcover book about Pandas, a cuddly toy panda and a certificate.
ENTRY FORM
ENT E HER R E!
Name: Address: Telephone number:
Email:
Panda male name: Meaning: Panda female name: Meaning:
TERMS AND CONDITIONS Only one entry per person. Each entry should include your name, address, and telephone number and chosen Panda name/s. Entries should be mailed to Dunedin Chinese Garden Panda Name Competition, Dunedin City Council, PO Box 5045, Moray Place, Dunedin 9058 or delivered to the Dunedin Chinese Garden, corner Rattray and Cumberland Streets (beside Toitū Otago Settlers Museum), Dunedin. Alternatively email your entry to chinesegarden@dcc.govt.nz with subject line ‘Panda name competition’. The competition starts on 13 July at 10am and closes at 5pm on Sunday 28 July 2013. Entries received after this date will not be considered. Judging will take place in the week 29 July�–�5 August and the winner/s will be notified at the completion. The Dunedin Chinese Garden reserves the right to use the chosen names of the Pandas for promotional purposes and in perpetuity. Entrants agree that, by entering the competition, they irrevocably assign and transfer to Dunedin Chinese Garden all right, title and interest in the Panda names. Names will be judged by: a) how appealing the name is; and b) how easy the name is for speakers of various languages to pronounce and remember Panda names may not necessarily be chosen from the same entrant. If both winning names are from one entrant, only one prize will be awarded. If a winning name is submitted by more than one person, the winner will be drawn from a hat. The decisions of the judges are final and no correspondence will be entered into.
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Early the next morning, Brother Panda and Sister Panda crept out before the sun came up and wandered along the river until it was dark. Luckily, there was lots of bamboo so the Pandas didn’t get hungry. The mountain was icy and before they knew what was happening, both Pandas went slip sliding down the side of the mountain all the way to the forest! Brother Panda rushed to check on Sister Panda who was busy shaking off all the leaves and dusting off her fur. “What lucky Pandas we are to be on such an exciting adventure!” Brother Panda exclaimed! Brother and Sister Panda followed the river for many days and many nights through the dark forest. Slowly the forest grew lighter and lighter and there were many rocks for the Pandas to clamber over. Some rocks were big, and some were small and they got smaller and smaller and finer and finer until they became sand and finally Brother and Sister Panda found themselves at the edge of the sea. Brother Panda and Sister Panda ran down to the sea and couldn’t believe it was so long and wide, and was all they could see for miles and miles. Brother Panda immediately padded into the cool water. “Come on Sister! It’s so much fun”. A large wave washed over both Pandas and swept them out to sea. Luckily, a large log was floating nearby and they held onto it, drifting with the current and talking excitedly about where they might find themselves next. Many days and nights later, the sea washed the log, with the Pandas holding on tight, into a city named Dunedin/ Ōtepoti. They shook the water out of their fur and found a place just like home, at the Dunedin Chinese Garden. Brother Panda and Sister Panda have made lots of new friends among all the children who come to visit them. The only trouble is, they don’t have their own names!
inside this issue
Contents
6
Features
14 Become a kiwi ranger
4 Winter wellness
Comment
Discover the true beauty of the outdoors
Dr Libby Weaver’s top tips for healthy eating in the colder months
5 Positive parenting after a challenging childhood
8 Kids’ view
We ask kids about their use of technology and rules around it
Break the cycle!
6 The impact of modern technology on kids
Resource information
13 Baby and toddler
10 11 13 15
Tablets, iPads, Twitter – the way of the future? Having fun with a cardboard box!
Calendar of events Entertainment Help is @ hand Marketplace
From the editor L
ove it or hate it, technology is a big part of your child’s life in the 21st century. It has the potential to enhance their life experiences, but given its proliferation, it also has the potential to rule it. While a lot of parents have gotten super smart about setting time rules around the use of technology such as computers, phones, tablets, gaming consoles and the likes, there’s also the simple fact that it does keep the kids occupied – and quiet. And as smart as parents are, kids are in fact often the smarter ones when it comes to operating digital goods. They are, after all, digital natives in a digital age. It’s not unusual for my 7-year-old nephew to be found showing my mother how to do something on the computer, or for my 4-year-old nephew to Skype call me. It’s stuff like this that my generation dreamed of as kids. Imagine video calling people instead of using a landline? Now that seems passé. But there’s something important we have to remember here too. Kids have vivid imaginations, but less of a concept between what is real, and what is imagined. All the super-high-quality graphic games and 3D movies can create a world in their minds that’s hard to distinguish from the real one. And unlike traditional games, most technology-based involvement is done individually, which creates unique challenges for parents: how do parents safeguard their kids from predators? How is technology changing the way kids relate to each other, communicate and form friendships? Because let’s be honest - it’s even changing things amongst adults. There was a time when going to a café with friends meant good quality conversation – not checking Facebook messages and Twitter feeds. And call me
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old-fashioned, but when it comes to reading a book, there’s something nostalgic about turning actual pages rather than sweeping the screen of a Kindle. I’m not down on technology at all. I think that when it’s used well it’s a powerful tool for education and amusement. I just don’t want to see today’s generation of kids miss out on the experience of building an outdoor hut, going fishing, or riding their bike because they prefer to do it virtually. This edition we tackle the technology issue, and talk to the experts about what it means for kids and parents today. Check out our main feature for the story, and also some tips on how to manage technology with your kids. Of course we have all the regular features too, with heaps of competitions, parenting tips, and entertainment ideas for the whole family. Enjoy!
About Us Publisher Robyn Willis Design & Production Moody Shokry Advert Production Target Press Production Office Editor Vanessa O’Brien Assistant Editor Rachel Taniwha Digital editor Rochelle Savage
Contributing Writers Rosanna Hill Dr Libby Weaver Kay Douglas John Cowan Gill Conner Advertising Sales Shona Robb, Nicky Barnett Jane Hunter, Tina Barriball, Katrina Wright, Naomh Cusin Office Manager Raelyn Hay
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Winter wellness – how not to over-eat in the chilly season The lure of the fridge late at night can result in even the most health-conscious person’s downfall. So why is that despite our good intentions, we demolish a block of chocolate after swearing we’d only have two pieces?
T
he lure to comfort eat, or to over-eat, may become even greater as the weather begins to get colder. The days become darker and shorter and it seems what you’re having for dinner becomes all the more important. So how can you avoid falling into an over-eating trap this winter?
If you were truly eating in order to nourish your body, there would be a point you would feel comfortable and nourished. “Once I start I cannot stop� is a phrase I have heard countless times. This wording gives you a clue. If you were truly eating in order to nourish your body, there would be a point you would feel comfortable and nourished. Many people eat to find what I call “soul food.� It’s actually not about the food at all. For some, food is used to replace a feeling in their lives. Food is reliable,
consistent and you know it will taste a particular way. There are not many things in life that do that. Eating for comfort or eating to feel lit up or happy are common scenarios and may be one way you have learnt to cope. To shift your focus away from eating to fill your soul, bring more of the things that truly nourish your soul into your life. Read more often, dance, sing, move, or watch your children sleep and soak up how truly precious they are. Food can never replace the role of soul food in your life. Nor can it make the sun shine. It is no secret that, at times, we may serve ourselves and our family too much total food. The tendency to serve big portions seems to increase as we introduce more hearty fare to our diets. Your stomach is roughly the size of your closed fist and so this provides a good indication for portion sizes of concentrated foods such as carbohydrates and protein. The majority of your family’s plate should be water-based vegetables. There are many ways of transitioning to smaller portion sizes; using smaller plates is a great way of making the meal appear larger than it is. Keeping your nutritional status maintained is an essential component in mounting you and your family’s best defence to winter ailments. In today’s time-poor world, incorporating easy ways of increasing the nutrient density of your diet is a must. One of the obvious winter favourites is soup. Soup makes a delicious lunch or a convenient and nourishing snack. Green soups, fragrant Asian-style broths, classic vegetable soup and of course chicken soup are all great options, but one way to supercharge them is to use a bone broth as the base or a
good quality stock. Kids can help with the cooking! It is also vital that you and your family continue to move. A winter walk even at night, rugged up with a friend can be wonderfully rejuvenating. If the weather doesn’t permit any sort of outdoor activity it might seem rather 1980s, but set aside some time to watch an exercise DVD, stretch or practice simple yoga poses in your home. Or commit to an exercise class preferably breath-focused to keep your body and mind occupied. Try a restorative or warm yoga class. The energy and optimism you
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create from regular movement can help you remain calm, clear and energised in everything you do. Make choices that will nourish your body and your soul this winter. Don’t let the season become an excuse to overeat. Instead, use it as a time to get to the heart of the matter, truly addressing why you may consistently overeat or make poor quality food choices. Be aware of how you speak to yourself and be sure to treat yourself with the care you deserve. By Dr Libby Weaver. To read more visit www. drlibby.com
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Positive parenting after a challenging childhood It is a challenging task to bring If you are struggling to break the cycle the following suggestions provide a starting point for up a child successfully. It can change. If it proves too difficult to implement be deeply distressing to realise these changes alone you need to seek help. There is no shame in this. In fact, having the we are not being the parent courage to seek necessary help to stop hurting we want to be, particularly if children is something to be proud of. we have experienced inadBuild up the relationship equate parenting ourselves as with your child Spend quality time together, talking about a youngster.
M
ost of us have the best of intentions when it comes to parenting. We may be very clear that we do not want to hurt our children as we were hurt as a child. When we begin with this kind of clarity we are likely to make significant steps towards achieving this goal. Yet, under stress, we may find ourselves slipping into old patterns and falling short of being the kind of parent we so want to be. The important thing is that if we know we are repeating a negative cycle, we face up to that and take immediate action to stop it. Angry parenting is destructive parenting. Our children are the precious vehicles of hope for the next generation. They deserve to have the very best beginnings we can give them.
The important thing is that if we know we are repeating a negative cycle, we face up to that and take immediate action to stop it. Angry parenting is destructive parenting.
experiences, sharing activities and having fun. Develop empathy and compassion. Imagine how you would feel in your child’s position and respond gently from that compassionate place.
Avoid getting into power struggles with a rebellious child
This escalates the conflict. The more calmly, firmly and respectfully you handle the challenges, the more likely the child will take notice.
Understand that there is a big difference between fair discipline and harsh punishment Discipline implies a self-controlled lesson in consequences. Harsh punishment more often provides an outlet for the frustration of the parent. This can be damaging to the child.
Never discipline your child while angry
It’s very easy to become too punitive in this state. Imagine how frightening it would be, if you were at the mercy of an enraged person twice your size. Wait until you have calmed down and are thinking rationally before attempting to address the issue.
Take time out to allow yourself to calm down
At the very least, time out consists of disengaging from conflict with the child and refocusing your energy into calming down. Ideally it involves leaving the house and taking a walk if there is someone else available to care for the child. Be sure to let people know that you are taking time out and when you will be back. Half an hour is usually a suitable cool down time.
Learn to manage anger well
There are skills we can learn that will help us gain self control. There’s a fantastic range of anger management books available. Attend a course if necessary.
Learn new parenting skills
There are parenting courses and support groups available in most communities. Personal counselling can also help.
Put things right as quickly as possible If you know you’ve been destructive it’s vital to take responsibility as soon as possible. Remember the most important thing is the child’s wellbeing and safety. Change is possible; you can break the cycle. There is help available but you need to reach out for it. By Kay Douglas, author and psychotherapist.
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feature story
The pros and cons of modern technology for today’s kids It’s not uncommon to see a toddler on an iPad, children with smart phones and the latest “apps,” and to wonder, what has happened to kids these days? Rachel Taniwha investigates.
B
eing a child today is very different from previous generations; things are moving at an extra fast pace with modern technology such as the internet offering both benefits and disadvantages to parents, and increasingly, children. It’s no small thing. Sir Peter Gluckman, the prime minister’s chief science adviser, described the internet as “the most profound change” in communications since we learned to speak, and spoke about the impact of the technological world on children’s and adolescent health and behaviour in a report for the Families Commission earlier this year.
Computers – the way of communicating?
Computers were a rare luxury in schools a generation ago – perhaps just a dedicated computer room and limited use for pupils, with limited capabilities as well. Comparatively, technology today is mind-boggling. Now social networking means instant contact at anytime with anybody in the world, plus the bonus of virtually living vicariously through the computer screen. With web cams and online live streaming, it’s as simple as a click of the mouse.
It’s this topic that Sir Peter explored. Modern technology has changed the way we communicate and interact – from verbal and personal, to electronic. And electronic forms of communication that exclude body language, such as text messages and Tweets – leave a lot of room to be misinterpreted or misunderstood. Stuart Wright, of UCANDO, is a leading New Zealand facilitator of Accelerated Learning and Whole Brain Learning Techniques. Wright believes that technology, with all its positives, is now encouraging learning by doing things at great haste without any logical analysis or even concern for the consequences. “The whole culture of text messages and computer games is about speed and instant hits rather than more profound or detailed ways of handling information.”
“Today’s children really are digital natives and soon even the most technologically-savvy parents will be left behind.” Belinda Milnes, interim chief commissioner, Families Commission. How technology influences brain development
Sir Peter suggested that the most important period for developing resilience is in early childhood when there is greater ability to influence brain development. He described today’s
children as the guinea pigs in “a new world we don’t fully understand.” “The digital world is leading to different ways in which the brain develops, different environments in which we learn . . . and it does seem to be having impacts on cognitive, social and emotional development,” he said. Wright agrees, saying that the nervous systems of today’s tots, tweens and teens are constantly being trained to watch, not listen. “All those fast-moving primarily visual images that this generation is constantly bombarded with every day arouse the right hemisphere at the expense of the left side. What is the left responsible for?
Language proficiency skills, logical sequence and reasoning.”
Are our kids taking more risks?
The Parenting Place creative producer, John Cowan, says that with all the technological know-how, children lack something adults have owned for years - a properly functioning prefrontal cortex. “That part of the brain handles risk assessment and social behaviour, and brain research says it isn’t working properly until a person is in their mid-twenties … so your young person might be bright and clever but
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feature story you have instincts, wisdom and risk-assessment skills that they won’t have for another decade.” The Families Commission’s interim chief commissioner, Belinda Milnes, says she has tried to encourage her two daughters (aged 8 and 10) to take calculated risks after they have thought through what could go wrong. “For example we might say, “Sure you can jump off that shed roof, but what do you think is the worst that might happen? Do you think you can do something to make it safer? Do you still think it’s a good idea?” It doesn’t always stop them but I guess at least they are learning cause and effect and to take responsibility for their own decisions.”
A pre-digital world?
Cowan says that parents can remember a time before mobile phones and home computers, but kids can’t - their world is digital. “They live in a connected world; they know technology and they love it. They are the first generation that have to show their parents how to do things, rather than vice versa. Can we really guide and protect our kids in a world that they know better than we do?” With guidance, he believes parents can. “While we may not be as familiar with all the gadgets, we know what our kids are doing. They are chatting, flirting, looking at pictures, shopping, fighting, listening to music, making friends, watching movies, arguing, reading, joking, playing games, hanging out… in other words, the same things kids have done for ages, but they’re doing it digitally, doing it more and, increasingly, doing it without adult coaching or protection.” Milnes says the pace of technological change is both exciting and terrifying for parents. “Today’s children really are digital natives and soon even the most technologically-savvy parents will be left behind. I saw my 10-yearold coaxing her 84 year-old granddad to use an
iPad for Google searches the other day which was fantastic.” She says she loves the way this generation of kids have no perceived limits on what technology can and can’t do. “The concept of a 3D printer churning out household items from downloadable plans instead of going to the hardware shop really challenges my whole world, but my daughters think it is brilliant and would like one for Christmas!”
The effect on education
Children are becoming more technologicallysavvy, albeit perhaps lacking some awareness of its limitations. But what effect does this greater cyber knowledge have on their teachers? Sir Peter argued that children could require a certain type of teacher in order to cope with these changes. Wright, an education specialist, said that the education system is actively encouraging the use of computers in virtually all of the learning activities in which instant communication is paramount. Yet he says that computers should not be children’s main source of gaining knowledge. “I believe schools need to start thinking seriously about providing a refuge from computers for at least part of the day to allow students to start developing the very skills that this technology seems to be quashing: linear analytical thought, sequential argument, reflection.” He feels that students should be taught verbal and logical skills that require concentration and perseverance in their formative years, to counter-balance learning dominated by visual experience that requires little concentration and no perseverance. Furthermore, both parents and teachers shouldn’t cater solely to their “learning style,” he says, as “It is claimed that we remember up to 90% of not only what we see, but what we say, hear and do.”
Tips for tech-savvy parents • Content filters - either programmes
enjoy this extra dimension of contact with their kids through Facebook, etc. Tip: don’t make too many comments on their page. Kids hate the idea that parents are “stalking” them…which, of course, they are. Facebook does provide that extra window into what they and their friends are up to. Enforce the age limit on Facebook, which is 13. Facebook boot around 20,000 underage kids off their site every day, but many still slip through. If you have younger children, join up to www. togetherville.com with them – a safe, fun social networking site for kids and their parents.
you buy or services from internet service providers - make it harder for kids to access unsuitable content on the internet.
• Limit access to internet in your home. Windows 7 has features that allow you to set up a profile for each member of the house. You can customise the times they can use the net, what sites they can visit, and check who they accept as “friends” on social networking sites. K9 is also a great free internet control programme.
• Don’t have internet-enabled computers in bedrooms, but rather in hightraffic areas of the house. Be aware that phones and games can also hook up to the net. Change the password on your home network or wireless hub to limit who can log on.
• Make phones behave at your place. Good phone manners mean you can’t look at your phone if someone is talking to you, you don’t use it at meals, and it goes off at bed time.
• Overcome your technophobia and
Tips provided by John Cowan, creative producer, The Parenting Place
join your kids online! Many parents Wright says parents could encourage their children to listen, read stories to them, tell stories about themselves as children, and get them to listen to their grandparents about their days growing up. “Encourage lots of singing with words they can understand. Have a guitar and encourage a singsong at the party. Encourage lots of colour and freehand drawing and doodling, not just on the computer. If they have Lego don’t just design what is on the box but fuel their imagination and then get them to
create something and explain what it is.” So there are ways parents can help their children develop resilience to modern technology and to make the most of the advantages it provides. Milnes says the ability to think creatively and develop solutions via modern technology is “going to be increasingly valuable, as will the ability to weigh and judge information. And perhaps knowledge won’t need to be held in our brains anymore, but finding it and using it in new ways will be even more important.”
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Caring for New Zealand’s kids
This issue, students from Green Island School share their ideas about the how they experience technology in their daily lives with our reporter Rosanna Hill.
Destinee Duthie, age 12
I have my own phone and iPod touch. I don’t really have a time limit; I just use them as necessary. I use the internet for keeping in touch with friends, games, YouTube and research as well. You can find things much faster than looking in a book but not all the info is correct so you have to check. I find it easy to use new technology; you get a handle on it really quickly.
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Brandon Woodford, age 11
I pay for the credit on my phone and use money from birthdays and Christmas and I ask Dad if I run out. I’m not allowed to download stuff and waste my money. I’m not allowed to play games for too long. I rage and get angry when I have to get off; I could play them all day. We have a couple of interactive whiteboards at our school and netbooks as well.
One of the best ways to look after New Zealand’s future is to look after our kids. That’s why Fonterra, together with its 10,500 Fonterra farmers, offer two great programmes to New Zealand’s schools. The Fonterra Milk for Schools programme gives kids a boost from the goodness of milk with calcium for healthy teeth and bones and protein to build muscle for their growing bodies. By the end of term one 2014, schools in New Zealand with children in years 1 - 6 will be able to provide free milk to those kids every school day. Schools will also receive free fridges to keep the milk cold and free recycling services, as part of the programme. Many schools run breakfast clubs to provide nourishment to the kids that need it most
before the school day starts. Fonterra’s existing KickStart Breakfast programme is in its fifth year and provides a breakfast of Anchor milk and Sanitarium WeetBix two days a week to children in more than 570 school communities around New Zealand. Recently the government announced its partnership with Fonterra to extend the programme to five mornings per week. These two programmes work together to help care for New Zealand’s kids and are just two of the ways Fonterra works within local communities. For more information on either programme visit www.fonterramilkforschools.com or www.kickstartbreakfast.co.nz.
Emma Jocelyn, age 10
I play Xbox and use the internet. Dad has an iPad, we have a smart TV and I have an iPod. Our computer has blocked pages and you need the password. I have to get off by 10pm and I have to turn the wifi and iPod off at night. Sometimes I get told that if I don’t get off right away I’ll be banned for a month! The internet is really versatile so you can use it in different ways.
Josh Friend, age 10
I like playing games like Warcraft and Hay Day- it’s really addictive. I’m not allowed to download anything and I’m not allowed to be on it all the time; I can have a set amount of time for the day. Sometimes my parents threaten that they will throw it out the window- but it never happens. The best thing about the internet is connecting with friends, like you could be on holiday and still connect with them.
It’s easy to win fantastic prizes with Family Times. Just fill in the entry form and post it to us by the due date, or enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz where we have even more competitions. This month we have a fantastic line up of prizes with more great giveaways… Good luck! Check out last issue’s lucky winners online.
OtagOs Leading earLy ChiLdhOOd PrOvider Little Wonders St Kilda, 146A Victoria Rd, St Kilda, Dunedin Ph: (03) 455-3337 Little Wonders Roslyn, 98 Taieri Rd, Roslyn, Dunedin Ph: (03) 476-3818
www.littlewonderschildcare.co.nz 8
www.familytimes.co.nz
WIN, WIN,
WIN!
WIN!
Despicable Me 2
Wee Rascals is focussed on providing natural quality products for littlies. Its scented playdough is non-toxic and 100% natural, and the different scents can calm, relax or energise your littlie. Visit www.weerascals. co.nz. As the winner you will get to choose your own colour combinations of scented playdough and ribbon wands. We have 8 prize packs to give away which contain: 1x crayon bag with 10 crayons 2 ribbon wands – mixed colours 3 tubs of playdough – mixed colours
WIN, WIN,
WIN!
Mon pack
WIN, WIN,
Wee Rascals natural products prize pack
Ryan B
In 2010 Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment introduced us to supervillain Gru, his evil sidekick, Dr Nefario, the unpredictably hilarious Minions and the adorable orphans, Margo, Agnes and Edith, to whom he became father. In 2013 prepare yourself for more Minion madness with the return of these beloved characters in the all-new comedy adventure Despicable Me 2 in which Gru, with the assistance of secret agent Lucy Wilde (Kristen Wiig), is recruited by the Anti-Villain League to help deal with a powerful new super criminal who threatens the stability of the world as we know it. In cinemas 4 July. We have 8 x beach towels, 8 x kids (medium) t-shirts, 8 x double passes to give away. Entries close 10th July.
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What would your dream slippers look like? We’d love to see a drawing of them; they could be for you, your mum, your dad or anyone you like. What features would they have? What would they look like? Send us your picture and be in to win an amazing $50 prize pack from Crayola!
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Wildlife • Walks • Events • Visitor Centre • Café
Three entry age groups: preschool (age 1-4), 5-8, 9-12. 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 28 July 2013.
Congratulations to our dream job design competition winners from our last issue. They are:
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Cloud Forest
Asheika Brasell-Jagger (bug collector) – age 4
www.orokonui.org.nz
– a – (Dave Curtis) Kak
Open Daily 9.30am-4.30pm Ph 03 482 1755 600 Blueskin Rd, Waitati, Dunedin, New Zealand Ryan Billington (cyber rats shop) – age 7
WIN, WIN,
Jonathon Tokios (boat architect) – age 11
WIN, WIN,
WIN!
WIN!
Monsters University prize packs DISNEY•PIXAR’s MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (In Disney Digital 3D™) In Cinemas July 11 www.disneymovies.co.nz Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan are an inseparable pair, but that wasn’t always the case. From the moment these two mismatched monsters met they couldn’t stand each other. Monsters University unlocks the door to how Mike and Sulley overcame their differences and became the best of friends. We have 5 prize packs to giveaway each consisting of: A T-shirt A notebook A slapband A double in-season pass to the movie. Entries close 10th July.
Grit Extremist Scooter
Grit Scooters offer a range of complete Grit Scooters, as well as parts and accessories that can be mixed and matched with other scooter brands on the market. Using only the highest grades of raw materials, Grit Scooters design and manufacturing is constantly improving to ensure that Grit products stay at the forefront of extreme scootering. Visit www.gritscooters.co.nz for a list of retailers near you! The Grit Extremist is the perfect quality entry level scooter incorporating the exclusive Grit deck and high Tensile T bars. Enter now for your chance to win a Grit Extremist! We have 4 to give away.
Just tick the things you want to win Winter 2013
Wee Rascals natural products prize pack Despicable Me 2 Monsters University prize packs Grit Extremist Scooter
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, PO Box 36 004, Christchurch to reach us by July 28th 2013, unless stated otherwise. Only one entry per household.
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cool activities
Calendar of Events It might be cold, but winter is the best season in Dunedin. Families are spoiled for choice with exciting and delicious activities and events. 20 July Cadbury Chocolate Fun Day. Celebrate the opening of the 2013 Dunedin Cadbury Chocolate Carnival. Meridian Mall, 10am-3pm, free.
20-28 July Why Are My Parents So Boring? A mischievous young girl sets out to teach her parents to have fun while she is at home during the school holidays. Fortune Theatre, 11am and 1pm, no performances on Monday, 22 July. Visit www.fortunetheatre.co.nz.
21 July Experience Our Peninsula. Take the opportunity to explore the peninsula attractions in a one-day event with great discounts. Visit www.chocolatecarnival.co.nz for more information. Portobello Community Market. Join the Portobello community for its winter market; entertainment, crafts and food. Coronation Hall, Portobello Road, 10am-1pm. Glenfalloch Dog Show. Enter your dog into fun categories to win some chocolate treats for owners. From 10am at Glenfalloch Woodland Garden, $2. Phone 03-476-1775.
22 July Cadbury Recyclia Trash to Art Competition. Create a stunning sculpture or wall hanging for the Dunedin Cadbury Chocolate Carnival using
10 www.familytimes.co.nz
recycled or re-usable material. Dunedin Public Library, entries accepted 9.45am-10.30am, prize giving on 25 July. Blue Light Cadbury Disco. Dancing, barbecue and special treats are in store! Organised by Dunedin Police Blue Light Ventures. Dunedin Police Station gymnasium, Great King Street, 6pm-8pm, $2.
22-25 July Cadbury Dairy Milk Magic Show. For a truly magical time, say abracadabra to this event! Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, 11am and 1pm, free.
22-26 July Freddo’s Family Story Time. Hop to the library with your family for a story session with Freddo Frog. Public libraries across Dunedin, free. Visit www.dunedinlibraries.govt.nz/events for times and locations. Forest Treasure Trail. Join the forest waterways treasure hunt to win yourself a yummy Freddo Frog! Orokonui Ecosanctuary, Blueskin Road, 9.30am-4.30pm. Visit www. chocolatecarnival.co.nz for other froggy activities at Orokonui.
Hooray for chocolate! The decadent Cadbury Chocolate Carnival is on again.
25 July Larnach Castle Teddy Bear’s Picnic. Take Ted for a magical meet and greet. Transport options are available. For full details visit www. larnachcastle.co.nz or phone 03-476-1616.
22 and 25 July
26 July
Cadbury Crunchie Train. Dress up for a wild ride, treats and stories for everyone on board. From 10.45am-1.30pm, charge applies and bookings are essential. To book phone 03-477-4449.
Cadbury Jaffa Race. This super fun event is on again! All proceeds going to Make-a-Wish and the Parents’ Centre. Baldwin Street, 11am-1pm. Visit www.taieriparentscentre. co.nz, www.makeawish.org.nz or www. chocolatecarnival.co.nz for information on where to buy tickets.
24 July Choc-tastic Treasure. Explore the evolution of currency and become a royal by making your face on a deliciously decadent chocolate coin. Otago Museum, 11am, 1pm and 3pm, free.
25 August The Great Living Legends Muck In. Join living legend Kees Meeuws, returning to
plant more native trees in 2013. Orokonui Ecosanctuary, 9am-12pm, free. Register at www.livinglegends.co.nz.
30 September Performance: Primary Schools’ Writing Challenge. Winning stories performed by Kat Anna Fiddle in the playground at Dunedin Botanic Garden, 11am-12pm. Compiled by Rosanna Hill
Playcentre - learning through play Have you tried Playcentre? There are 37 Playcentres providing quality early childhood education to preschoolers in rural and urban communities across the entire Otago region. Playcentre is eligible for 20 hours free ECE, and fulfils the government’s recently announced early childhood education obligations for beneficiaries with preschoolers. At Playcentre, children learn through play in a mixed-age setting, with great adult-tochild ratios. It provides quality, fun, halfday education sessions for preschoolers, from birth until school, alongside parental education and support. Playcentre is a family organisation. It values and affirms parents as the first and best educators of their children. It empowers adults and children to work, play, learn and grow together. It honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi and celebrates people’s uniqueness. Playcentre works to strengthen whanau and enrich communities. To find a Playcentre near you, check out www.otagoplaycentre.org. nz or call the Otago Playcentre Association free phone, 0800-488-3932.
cool activities
Entertainment Plenty to do and see these holidays; wrap up warm and get out and explore. Otago Museum Escape the cold these holidays at the Otago Museum. Search the galleries for decadent delights, dine like royalty in the Tropical Forest and take a bite out of some tasty science. Discover more at www.otagomuseum.govt.nz.
Taieri Gorge Railway Daily departures. Visit Pukerangi, Middlemarch and The Seasider plus the new Dunedin Silver Fern, which runs short trips to Waitati on selected days. Contact TGR on 03-477-4449 or reserve@taieri.co.nz.
Rialto Cinemas Bring the kids along for the best movies at Rialto Cinemas these school holidays. See 3D movies with 3D passes. For movie and session information visit www.rialto.co.nz or phone 03-474-2200.
Chipmunks Looking after the grandchildren these holidays? Chipmunks indoor playground and cafe is the place. Sit back and relax at the café while the grandchildren play. Open seven days a week from 9.30am.
Dunedin Chinese Garden The ever popular chocolate buns will be available during the Chocolate Carnival. Games, crafts, puzzles and colouring-in books will be in the tower room, plus workshops and classes. Visit www.dunedinchinesegarden.com.
Laser force Entertainment Moana Pool Centre
A fantastic venue for birthdays or group events and an excellent place for fun family activities laser tag, mini golf and pool tables. Phone 03474-9179 or visit www.laserforcedunedin.co.nz
Holiday specials Workshops, programmes and activities to entertain and inspire over the school holidays. Dunedin Botanic Garden Workshop for Children: Collect and Create a Collage Children get out into the garden, collect bits and pieces, and make a collage. 15-26 July, weekdays only 11am-12.30pm. Meet at the Information Centre, bookings essential, phone 03-477-4000. Compiled by Rosanna Lister
Toitu Otago Settlers Museum How We See History – children’s one-day drama workshops at Toitu; 13, 16 and 18 July 10am-4pm. Using the exhibits in Toitu for inspiration, children will discover some of Dunedin’s history while learning about improvisation in drama. Suitable for ages 7 to 13, $55 per child. Bookings essential, contact toituosm@dcc. govt.nz or 03-477-5052.
Swimsation holiday learn-to-swim programme, 22-26 July. Preschool and school age classes, 9.30am-12pm and 1pm-4pm. Breaststroke and butterfly workshop 11.30am each day. See Swimsation’s timetable at www.dunedin. govt.nz/moanapool and phone 03-477-4000 to book.
Dunedin Public Library Chocolate Bard Poetry Competition: Express how much you love chocolate through poetry, and be in to win a pack, choc-full of treats. Entries close 19 July, 12pm.Visit www. dunedinlibraries.govt.nz/chocolatebard.
Dunedin Public Art Gallery Be inspired by Saskia Leek’s exhibition Desk Collection and draw your pet/s using the materials on the activities table in the foyer. Be in to win a wonderful prize. From 13-19 July. Compiled by Rosanna Hill
Delicious chocolate buns at the Dunedin Chinese Garden.
It’s all going on at the Edgar Centre The Edgar Centre is a busy and popular destination for many Dunedin families. It offers a range of sporting opportunities and events, and it really is “all going on at the Edgar Centre!” The centre’s ever popular children’s birthday parties are guaranteed to be a hit with the kids, and there are a range of birthday activities to suit any budget: give Sarah a ring to discuss the many options.
The opportunities are endless at the Edgar Centre, from a casual game of tennis to getting a team practice in. Preschool groups and mums and dads with kids are becoming frequent users during the day, given the Edgar Centre’s handy location, good parking and ample space. The Edgar Centre is also a convenient Ticket Direct outlet. Visit www. edgarcentre.co.nz.
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cool activities
Time to nominate outstanding teachers and leaders Teachers are top-of-the-mind for families as nominations open for the ASG Teaching Awards and Cognition Education Leadership Awards. Boards of Trustees, parent associations, secondary student councils and community organisations can nominate outstanding teachers and leaders who inspire learning in their school community. These awards are an opportunity for education consumers to acknowledge those teachers and leaders whose inspirational approach stimulates student learning and success. “Your nomination demonstrates recognition
of outstanding teachers and leaders at early childhood education centres, primary, intermediate and secondary schools nationwide who provide children with the desire, confidence and enthusiasm to learn and do well,” says Terry O’Connell, chairman of the NEiTA Foundation, which facilitates the awards programme. Nominations are open until 30 September 2013. Nominate online at www.neita.co.nz or download a nomination form. Forms are also available at schools and early childhood education centres nationwide, or through the NEiTA Foundation, phone 09-308 0576 or email mventer@asg.co.nz. Level two class performing in “For the love of it” - RASA show at the regent theatre. Visit www.danz.org.nz/rasa.
ParaNorman, Madagascar 3, Rise of the Guardians, Cirque Du Soleil
Jumping Beans Otago
WIN, WIN,
WIN!
Dunedin children can now join Jumping Beans on a Saturday. Jumping Beans is an exciting programme designed especially for Kiwi kids to aid physical, social and intellectual development. Local Dunedin owner and operator Sally Warlow taught primary school for 10 years and saw many children who struggled with learning. “Often learning and behaviour difficulties can be traced back to simple but overlooked physical development,” she said. Jumping Beans classes use exercise to develop physical skills such as balance, co-
These school holidays keep the whole family entertained with a selection of movies new to Blu-ray™ and DVD including ParaNorman, Madagascar 3, Rise of the Guardians, and Cirque Du Soleil. We have 3 packs of these to giveaway. Enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz or write your name and address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: ParaNorman, Madagascar 3, Rise of the Guardians, Cirque Du Soleil, PO Box 36 004, Christchurch, to reach us by 28 July 2013. Check out our website for more fantastic competitions.
Does your child wet the bed? Get a DRI-Sleeper Alarm and end bedwetting once and for all.
20% off when you order online at www.bedwetting-cure.com offer expires 30 September 2013
12 www.familytimes.co.nz
ordination and concentration. They help children to learn problem solving skills while enhancing confidence, physical well-being and teaching safety and social skills. “Physical activity, especially in the formative years of childhood, is shown to stimulate neural pathways in the brain that are important for later learning. In fact research shows that 80 per cent of a child’s ability to learn is developed in the first five years.” Jumping Beans Otago is taking enrolments for classes in Roslyn and Mornington. Full details are available on the website.
What cardboard boxes can teach kids
support services
to know their own bodies, and with that comes and manipulate an object that is bigger than they Like red rubber balls and are. In other words, cardboard yields to their will. the necessary question “how big am I?” But teddy bears, broccoli refusals, they’re growing, so the answer to that question Control keeps changing. That’s why kids are constantly Cardboard boxes make ideal hiding places, skipping rope, sticky fingers, testing their own size by crawling in, through, and kids love to hide. Now, while there is no boo boo kisses, bath time around, over and under things. Cardboard research to back this up, it seems obvious to pouts, and nighty-night tuck- boxes are often the perfect size for this kind of educators that the hiding game may well be spatial exploration. the first experience a child has with knowing ins, cardboard boxes are something adults don’t know. Comfort and security essential for little kids. And Right from the start, children are soothed by Asensory play sense of being bundled up or embraced. “Asensory” experiences play an important the granddaddy of them all is aThis need for “denning” continues throughout role in sensory development and the humble the refrigerator box. childhood (and throughout life) because in cardboard box is a great example of an So, why are cardboard boxes great for kids?
Spatial awareness
The first thing little kids do when confronted with a cardboard box is try to get in it. Cute as this is, there’s actually an important reason why they do this. It’s called spatial awareness. Preschoolers spend a good deal of time getting
many ways, it’s a subconscious return to the comfort of the womb.
Empowerment
Imagine what it’s like to always be the smallest person in a room. Everything is sized for big people. In small spaces, kids feel big. As well, the light-weight construction of a cardboard box enables young children to move
Help is @ hand For more information call Skylight 0800 299 Sometimes you need some 100 or visit www.skylight.org.nz information or an answer to Dunedin Budget Advisory a curly question. Why not Service pick up the phone and call Phone: 03-471 6158 the relative support agency? Free confidential advice on personal budgets. How to manage your money, options and You’ll find professional caring plans for debt repayment. people ready to assist you. Citizens Advice Bureau
Skylight Skylight is a national grief support agency that has been running for almost a decade.
asensory environment. The brown colour suggests nothing in particular. The smooth sides infer little. The cube structure defines empty space. The subtle smell lacks distraction. The sound of the cardboard folding is muted and music-less. This very lack of sensory input (or perhaps, more accurately said, the subtle nature of the sensory inputs) is an essential contrast to the more powerful and deliberate stimulation we traditionally think of when we talk about “sensory play.” This relief from the sensory world may explain, in part, why kids find the confines of a cardboard box so appealing. And of course, its very neutrality is the blank-slate upon which children so easily imprint their imaginations.
By Gill Connell from Moving Smart Adapted from Moving Smart Blog http:// movingsmartblog.blogspot.co.nz To find out about the many courses Gill Connell and the Moving Smart team run visit www.movingsmart.co.nz/home/pre-schools/ workshop-schedule-2
Imagination
Put simply, a cardboard box can become anything the child wants it to be. Creating something new from something that exists teaches a child that his view is important and that anything is possible.
Dunedin
Phone: 0800-367 222 or 03-471 6166 For free information and advice. Not sure? Ask us
Breastfeeding help by mothers for mothers LA LECHE LEAGUE OFFERS: • Mother-to-mother support • Telephone help • Trained breastfeeding counsellors • Regular meetings • Books and leaflets for sale • Lending libraries
CONTACT US: (03) 467 5599 or (03) 476 1339 EMAIL: help@lalecheleague.org.nz www.facebook.com/LLLNZ www.lalecheleague.org.nz
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destination tekapo
Marvel at the beauty Tekapo offers visitors much, much more than breathtaking views of the lake and the Church of the Good Shepherd.
O
n land, water, or high in the sky, in all seasons, there is something to entertain everyone in the family. Known for its bright turquoise lake and impressive snow-capped mountains, Tekapo is an area of outstanding beauty. It’s also one of the best star-gazing spots in the world; check out an Earth and Sky astronomy tour for the best views. During the day the summit of Mount John, 300 metres above Lake Tekapo, provides spectacular panoramic views of the Mackenzie Country. Night tours are offered (weather permitting) where a guide will help you view the stars and planets through a selection of telescopes. The Astro Café is open during the day, and night visitors receive complimentary hot chocolate by candlelight. Billed as New Zealand’s premier scenic flight experience, Air Safaris covers the largest scenic flight in the area of Aoraki Mount Cook and the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers. For the trip of the lifetime it’s hard to beat the Grand Traverse, a spectacular flight that explores the Mount
hungry tummies, the on-site Two Thumb Café has been redeveloped and doubled in size. No snow? Snow making facilities ensure enjoyable skiing and snowboarding, even when the heavy snow falls are delayed. At the end of a day’s skiing, check out the delectable fare on offer at Lake Tekapo Tavern for an evening Check out Air Safaris, which was awarded New Zealand’s Best Scenic Flight, meal, easily located voted by travellers through www.rankers.co.nz. on the Main Road of Lake Tekapo. It’s Cook and Westland National Parks. Air Safaris a superb dining experience with a delicious operates from Lake Tekapo airport. menu, attentive staff, quick service and warm, When it snows, what better way to enjoy it ambient atmosphere. than skiing or snowboarding? Roundhill is due The township of Tekapo has much to to open on July 6 and is the ideal place to try offer visitors. Along with a good range of these snow sports for the first time. The huge accommodation and breathtaking scenery, beginners’ slope is serviced by two beginner activities in the area include horse trekking, rope tows and a platter lift. The adventurous mountain biking, starlight tours, mini golf and can head up the world’s longest and steepest plenty of good walking spots. rope tow and see Australasia’s biggest vertical And after you have stopped at the Church of drop (783m). For a warming drink or to fill
the Good Shepherd to marvel over the vista through the window behind its altar, take another few minutes to say hello to the bronze sculpture of a dog on the lake’s foreshore, there to commemorate the working collie dogs that helped to settle the high country.
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Become a Kiwi Ranger Ever felt the soft spring of forest moss with your toes, tasted a drop of pure honey dew on the tip of your tongue or sat with closed eyes in the bush and really listened to all the bird sounds you can hear? These are some of the activities that children of all ages get to do through the Kiwi Ranger programme, now offered at 10 South Island sites and one in the North Island. Kiwi Ranger was developed by Mick Abbott and Carli Richter of Shades of Green Inc, which together with DOC is creating a nation-wide network of Kiwi Ranger sites. Kiwi Ranger is easy to do and in most cases free. You pick a booklet and choose which activities to do. Completion of the tasks earns you a badge – unique to each site – and the title of “Kiwi Ranger.” The programme is aimed at kids from three upwards with older children challenged to 14 www.familytimes.co.nz
do more activities to earn their badge. The activities get children to use all their senses to investigate the special features of a place—the native plants and animals, its unique geography, relics of human history and how it’s being conserved today. Many also call for a bit of detective work and imagination. Budding Kiwi Rangers are also encouraged to think about something they’d like to do when they get home that’s good for the environment and to record this in their booklet. With 86% of New Zealanders living in towns and cities it is no surprise that children are increasingly disconnected from the natural world. Yet, research shows that experiences with nature as a child are critical to influencing attitudes and behaviours towards the environment. Kiwi Ranger is one way of getting kids to reconnect with nature and to develop a sense of wonder and respect. By developing a network of Kiwi Ranger places around the country, DOC hopes to encourage families to go to new places and build on their
experiences, as well as collect the badges.
Kiwi Ranger - Orokonui Ecosanctuary (Waitati) Stretch your ears to hear the “woosh, woosh” of kereru, step through the gate in the pest-proof fence and go back in time to a world without predators. Search for water creatures in the streams and ponds. Get your booklet from the Orokonui Ecosanctuary visitor centre. Note there is a charge to enter the ecosanctuary ($16/adult, children $8, preschoolers free). A gold coin donation to cover the booklet costs is appreciated. For a list of Kiwi Ranger sites visit www.kiwiranger.org.nz and www.doc.govt.nz/kiwiranger.
market place Memorabilia
Toys
Early Learning
Family Getaways
Footwear
Tuition
Bedwetting
Dry Cleaning
Childrens winter shoe sale Starts 12 July
Huge discounts on top brands online and instore
Cnr Nuffield St & Remuera Road Newmarket Ph 529 2203 Cnr Jervois Rd & St Marys Bay Road Ponsonby Ph 378 8880
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Maximise your child’s learning potential
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Babies
For Hire
Pregnant? Have you thought of sharing this special time with a student midwife? The focus for our first year midwifery students is to ‘follow through’ pregnancy, birth and early weeks at home, with women and their families – the role being that of a companion/support person. Our students enjoy these experiences which provide their best learning opportunities. If your baby is due by December and you think you might enjoy sharing your childbirth experience with one of our students, please contact:
Melanie Piri, School of Midwifery 0800 762 786, melanie.piri@op.ac.nz
J01319 D 03.13
Entertainment
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ISSue 2011
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0800 762 786 www.op.ac.nz www.familytimes.co.nz
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