SPRING ISSUE 2012
ISSN 1176 7952
DUNEDIN
Is it Easy Street for kids today? How expectations have changed
Homework Kids in business
Too much? Not enough?
How to encourage young entrepreneurs
Win Win Win Competitions, giveaways and vouchers
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“Hatched is the best thing I have ever seen!” JACK (AGED 6)
HATCHED A young girl, Martha Grimstone, lives with her mother Velvetta and grandfather Elcho. Martha is gifted with the ability to see peoples’ dreams and, in an effort to lighten the heart of her grieving mother, she decides to use magic to create a baby brother. But Martha makes a crucial mistake in the spell and the results are catastrophic! Launched in Australia in 2008, the production has since toured internationally to critical acclaim. Those who enjoy Harry Potter, Edward Scissorhands and The Addams Family will LOVE Hatched. This wonderful family show is perfect fare for the school holidays.
Otago Festival of the Arts offers exciting family entertainment, perfect for the school holidays.
OCTOBER 5-14
HATCHED
VIENNA BOYS CHOIR MONKEY BUSINESS
CHALKTAGON!
This is a compelling and magical story about The Grimstone Family. The story is told with giant books, oldworld marionettes and sign language. Gertrude Grimstone (Asphyxia) and her assistant August (Paula Dowse), the delightful storytellers and puppeteers, interact with the puppets and play their own role in the Grimstones’ fairytale.
On tour throughout Australasia, the famous Vienna Boys Choir gives its only South Island performance at the Otago Festival of the Arts.
The Festival is delighted to introduce a new family friendly event - Chalktagon! On the opening weekend of the Festival children and families will be invited to decorate the footpaths and streets of the Octagon with coloured chalk! Students from the Otago Polytechnic School of Art will be there to assist.
Hatched celebrates the wonder of books, the acceptance of difference, the joy of family love and the simple pleasures of life. The production is both narrated and signed.
At the Regent Theatre, twenty-five of the world’s youngest voices from one of the world’s oldest choirs, dressed in their trademark sailor suits and shiny black shoes, will charm audiences with their beautiful harmonies and purity of sound. TUE 9 OCT 8PM
Keep an eye open for Festival Ambassadors, the Monkeys, who will be frolicking through the streets of downtown Dunedin throughout the ten days of the Festival. These clever chappies are skilled in many art forms including street theatre, circus, hip-hop and contemporary dance. The Monkeys will climb, jump, flip and dance their way around town. Fun, family friendly and a little bit bananas, The Monkeys are just the ticket for a little school holiday hijinks! FRI 5 - SUN 14 OCT
FRI 12 OCT 6:30PM
FREE
SAT 13 OCT 2PM & 6:30PM
TICKETS ON SALE NOW www.otagofestival.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz
SAT 6 OCT 10AM - 2PM FREE
SUN 14 OCT 2PM
2
The theme for Chalktagon is ‘My Favourite Things’. We want you to draw pictures of the things that make you smile, laugh, and jump up-and-down with excitement. Participants will have an opportunity to win some fantastic art supplies, courtesy of Art Zone.
Sunday 7 October has been reserved as a postponement date should adverse weather conditions force a cancellation on the Saturday. Check News section at www.otagofestival.co.nz or listen to cancellation notices on Radio Dunedin 99.8FM
Inside this issue From the editor 4
7
Features 4
childhood differs from their parents or grandparents.
Are we too easy on today’s children?
Special features
6
The homework debate
14 Parties
7
Parenting girls
How expectations have changed over the 12 Cycle safety generations Choosing a bike Too much or not enough?
How to communicate and cope with daughters
Good old-fashioned birthday party games to enjoy
17 Let’s go tramping!
Get outdoors – family-friendly walks and huts
10 Nurture your tiny tycoons Getting kids into business
15 Baby and toddler
How children shape their world through play
18 Healthy eating in food courts It’s possible! Know your numbers
Comment 10 Kids’ view
We ask children if they think their
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
Fiona Smith
Contributing Writers
Rosanna Lister, Joseph Driessen Gill Connell, Leigh Elder Advertising Sales
Caren Constable, Shona Robb, Nicky Barnett Jane Hunter, Tina Barriball, Katrina Wright Office Manager
Raelyn Hay
Office Administrator
Jackie Pithie
Resource information 5 8 12 13 19
School Term Dates Help is at hand Calendar of events Entertainment Marketplace Reach us at: Family Publishers (NZ)
P.O. Box 36-004, Christchurch NZ Free phone 0800 28 55 10 Fax 03 355 9183 Mobile 0274-359-414 Email: admin@familytimes.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz ------------------------------------
Distribution Printed and distributed quarterly approximately two weeks before each major school holiday. 13,096 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.
Of all the combinations of words in the world that have the power to irk me, these three do it best: “it’s not fair.” “Life’s not fair,” I respond pragmatically. “You might as well get used to it.” It’s not that I’m a pessimist, or trying to impart pessimism into the upcoming generation. But I think a little realism can help develop a tenacity in people – even little people - that cultivates character that won’t crumble at the first obstacle in life. I’d like to imagine that these words of wisdom are my own, but I have a sneaking suspicion creeping up on me. Are they the exact same words my mother spoke to me? On contemplation, I’m pretty sure they are. They echoed through my head every time I had to hang out the washing, do the dishes, make the lunches, ride back from the shops on my Raleigh 20 with groceries bags balanced on the handle bars, iron school shirts, vacuum the floor, or mow the lawns. Now, that’s not a comprehensive list of chores, but by today’s standards, it’s practically child slavery. And no amount of salty tears streaming down my face moved my mother. As it turns out - to the complete surprise of a 10-year-old me, quivering at the injustice of it all - I survived. Most parents I know today look back on those days as a kind of golden age – a time when kids were kids, adults were obeyed, and life was somehow simpler. There’s a general feeling that much of today’s young generation has a sense of entitlement. It’s not just kids: Generation Y is well documented for expecting the best jobs with
the best benefits, before they’ve paid their dues. But as much as we hearken to bygone values, we live in a different world. Today’s modcons mean that littlies aren’t bringing in the firewood or slaving over hot, soapy water, but more is expected of them in terms of achievement – in academics, sports, cultural activities and club memberships. Kids spend less time on household chores, but it hasn’t translated into more time for imagination and free play. I frequently hear the exhausted sighs of exasperated parents trying to keep up with their kids’ busy schedules. Now, every parent wants the best for their child, but the question has to be asked: are we expecting too much of parents these days, and not enough of kids? We ask the experts what the think in our main parenting article this edition. We’ve also got plenty of parenting tips, competitions and ideas to keep the whole family entertained this spring. Enjoy! Vanessa O’Brien
feature story
Are we too easy on today’s children? “When I was your age…” Those few words have resonated throughout generations of families worldwide.
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oday’s parents heard it from their parents, and undoubtedly today’s children hear it from their parents. Is it just a case of the older generation ranting and raving about the difficulties of life without today’s mod-cons, or was life really different in bygone days in terms of values and expectations? The stories are endless; walking to school in the snow, chopping wood for the fire, washing clothes by hand. Kids playing on the streets and walking to school were once a frequent sight, but not in today’s world. While the older generation may be quick to point the finger at today’s parents for making life too easy for their kids, and potentially raising a nation of overly dependent, lazy children, experts that Family Times spoke with said that it was not a cut-and-dried case. Parental expectations are still there, but they are different from bygone generations. While today’s kids are not necessarily shovelling snow, that doesn’t always mean that their lives are a cake walk, or that parents have lost control of parenting.
Who’s the boss?
Family therapist and parenting coach Diane Levy thinks it is much more difficult for today’s parents to raise children than it was a
generation ago. “When our parents asked their children to do something they did it without hesitation.” Parents felt absolutely entitled to ask children to do something without worrying about whether they were being positive enough or phrasing it the right way. “They certainly never felt obliged to offer us incentives for ordinary household chores or our homework obligations.” She says that with the influence of the many parenting experts these days (and admits she is one of them) and their varying opinions on how to raise children, it is no wonder that parents hesitate at each step of the parenting journey. “The effect is that it is quite hard to tell who is in charge – parent or child.”
Are we too soft?
Maybe it’s a safety conscious society, or overprotective parents, but the sight of children playing in the streets and making their own fun, which was once common, is no longer the norm. The Parenting Place creative director John Cowan says his parents were “delightfully neglectful”. As a child he would dawdle from school, go to his mates’ places or play on the railway lines and by the creek. The only time he had to phone was if he wasn’t going to be home for tea. He does say however, child accident rates then were four times higher than they are today, so the vigilance of today’s parents is not all neurotic overprotection. “Walking to school and catching public transport is probably as safe as it always has been.”
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Eldercare Canterbury co-ordinator Valda Reveley, who discussed the issue of expectations of today’s children compared to previous generations with a member of an Elder Care Canterbury Consumer Group, said perhaps parents today were too protective. Children needed to be encouraged and shown how to become independent. “If you make things “too safe” they won’t cope when they get older. Be logical but don’t make our children fearful, dependent and less able to become independent thinkers and problem solvers, compromising their ability to parent well themselves.”
On the other hand, parents do need to educate children about scenarios that could put them at risk. Technology today has changed the whole game-plan in that regard, with the widespread use of cell phones and social media.
Entitlement and the changing face of the family
Family dynamics have certainly changed from previous generations: the average age of firsttime mothers has risen, the number of children in the “average” family has dropped, and there are more single parents and combined families. The cost of living has increased, but so has relative income. More children are in childcare
feature story
to enable both parents to work and receive a double income. Given the economic changes and greater focus on consumer goods, Levy says today’s parents feel more obliged to come up with good explanations and justifications for why their children cannot have everything they want. “Our parents were better at simply saying “no�.�
Expectations
Children in previous generations were undoubtedly expected to assist with more household chores. With today’s heat pumps, dishwashers, packaged and processed foods, microwaves and combined washer/dryers, children are largely spared these domestic duties. Cowan says he was the indulged baby of the family and suspects he got off lightly in terms
of chores. However, his own children, who are now young adults, all helped with household duties. “I am convinced that has contributed to their independence. Chores teach life skills, they help kids feel competent and it teaches them to work. They learn that that a family mucks in together to get things done.� However, clinical psychologist Dr Fran Vertue said that in most cases, expectations of children around the home were greater 25 years ago when educational options were broader and there was far less academic competition. “While some parents may put less emphasis on their children being in paid work or doing chores around the house, they have much higher expectations in terms of their children’s achievements.� There are definite bonuses to having high hopes - Levy says children can learn to be productive if parents raise their expectations. “If we raise our expectations of how they contribute to the family and that we expect them to contribute well at school and take full advantage of the educational opportunities offered to them, our children are likely to meet these expectations.� Furthermore, Levy says that today there is more variety available for children in school subjects and after school activities, but far less time to play and find ways of entertaining themselves. Dr Vertue says one of the struggles she has is with parents who insist that their children are constantly busy after school and on weekends with activities that are meant to extend them in some way. “Children seemed to have more free time than they do now.�
The influence of parents
So, although expectations of today’s children in the home are not as high as in previous generations, children have less free time and more planned activities. But ultimately, parents hold the key to finding that balance, and
2012/2013 primary and intermediate school term dates 14 December
Term 1, 2013
Between Monday 28 January and Thursday 7 February to 19 April
Between Monday 28 January and Thursday 7 February to 19 April
Term 2, 2013
By Rachel Taniwha
Key points of “our parents versus usâ€? •
• •
•
Our parents felt absolutely entitled to ask children to do something without worrying about whether they were being positive enough or phrasing it the right way – parents of this generation feel more obliged to offer incentives. Children need to be encouraged and shown how to become independent. If things are made too safe, it will be hard to cope when they’re older. Be logical but don’t make your children fearful, dependent and less able to become independent thinkers and problem solvers, compromising their ability to parent well themselves. Today’s parents feel more obliged to
• • • • •
come up with good explanations and justifications for why their children cannot have everything they want. Our parents were better at simply saying no. Household chores help contribute to independence. Parents these days tend to expect more from their child(ren) in terms of achievement. Children are not short adults! Don’t expect them to understand issues beyond them. Children are staying at home longer than previous generations. Give them a sense of community to belong to and contribute to.
Term 2, 2013
Monday 6 May to Friday 12 July
Monday 6 May to Friday 12 July
Term 3, 2013
Monday 29 July to Friday 27 September
2012/2013 secondary and composite school term dates Term 4, 2012
Term 1, 2013
dependent longer. According to an Australian expert on boys, Ian Lillico, the median age for boys to leave home is 26 years and climbing. So, are today’s parents doing a good job in a consumer society that expects less in the home, but demands more in terms of achievement? Levy says that from a parenting perspective, it’s more difficult to raise children to be whole and healthy contributing people, but there is a “splendid opportunity to tailor-make our parenting toward raising our children in a direction that will be good for them and good for the community.� “Most importantly, if we are going to raise our children well, we need to find a way of giving them a community to belong to and contribute to and as parents. We need to find a way of sticking together,� she says.
ol Scho m Te r s e Dat
Term 4, 2012
Monday 15 October to no later than Thursday 20 December
shaping their children to become productive adults and independent decision makers in an ever-changing world. Dr Vertue says parents need to find the equilibrium (which shifts constantly as children develop) between pushing them out into the world and holding them in a safe, nurturing way. “Some parents expect their children to understand issues that are way beyond their capacity – the children are treated like short adults – with the result that the children are constantly disappointing their parents. Sometimes, children just get exhausted from their parents’ demands.� Of course there are parents at the other end of the spectrum who make so few demands that their children are developmentally delayed in terms of independence, says Dr Vertue. Cowan says that not only are children less independent than before, they are staying
Tuesday 15 October to no later than Friday
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2012 public holidays remaining
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Homework – too much or not enough? Homework can be a controversial topic. Is it necessary after a six-hour day school day? Are children getting enough, or too much?
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he amount of homework can vary from school to school and teacher to teacher. The role of parents in encouraging - or in some cases actually doing their children’s homework - is also a factor. Educational psychologist Rose Blackett does not recommend a certain timeframe for daily homework, but rather “taming the homework monster” to suit the child and family needs. “If homework is ending in fights, arguments, or negative behaviour (from the child or parent) then things need to be reviewed quickly and adjusted.” Blackett says that whole class generic homework programmes will possibly suit the middle group in a class but will likely be far too easy (and boring) for the top end and far too challenging and time consuming for the children experiencing academic difficulties. Individualised homework programmes linked to classroom programmes and with an element of choice are suggested if homework is given. Blackett also says that for some children getting through the school day and completing classroom tasks alone can take huge amounts of physical and cognitive energy. By the time they get home they need a snack and some down time rather than more “work” in the form of homework. She has worked with families and negotiated with schools to have
more individualised homework options. “Not everything should have to be written. Doing something creative can lead to the same or better learning experiences for children.” Instead of formalised homework as such, Blackett recommends daily reading for children in the junior years. “Most new entrant/ reception teachers will report higher reading levels for children whose parents read with them and share their reading books for homework. If homework is done in a relaxed manner and is a positive experience for the child (and parent) then this can support what is happening at school and lead to positive learning outcomes.” On the flipside, she says that if a parent puts a child under pressure to complete work that is too hard or unable to be completed independently, it can be detrimental. “If a child dislikes reading because it is too difficult for them, then making them do work they cannot do every night makes them go from disliking reading to hating it with a vengeance. We are setting them up to fail every day. Parents and children going into battle over homework every night is not conducive to positive parentchild relationships nor does it lead to positive academic outcomes for the child.” Blackett further says that homework, if given, should be able to be completed independently by the child. In the early years, however, a parent might play a bigger role. “It can be challenging for busy, working parents to juggle homework with their other tasks each day. I suggest having a routine to suit your family after school helps. “If your child finds reading difficult for example, let them come home and have a snack and
a break. Exercise and getting outside for some active boys is a must before they are ready to do any homework.” Blackett also suggests talking to teachers if homework is an issue. “Be honest if things have become negative and work with the teacher and your child to negotiate a more workable option for homework.” As to the argument of not doing homework? Blackett says that not doing homework can be detrimental, particularly in the early years. “Reading experience and exposure is important. If a child is able to read their book to mum or dad, grandparents, or even the family cat, then they build up what is known as reading mileage. They develop skills and learn the language of “literacy”. “But homework must be fun and engaging. When my children were little we had reading
picnics outside under a tree, read in the bath (bubbles included) or used puppets and silly voices to make it enjoyable. Simply changing the environment changes the task.” By Rachel Taniwha
Home-based learning and care
DCCA home-based educators care for children in small, family-like groups, where children receive individual attention from one loving and caring adult. Your child will have fun with children who become their best friends over time. Children have community visits such as feeding ducks, posting letters, playgroups, music groups, gym and visits to the museum, library and other fun places. Your child will be involved in all sorts of play including drama, books, art, games, baking, outdoor play, and gardening etc with other children. DCCA educators undertake training and have an understanding of children’s learning and development. Qualified and registered early childhood teachers regularly visit your educator and children, support your
choice of educator by leading the selection process, and provide advice and guidance to educators. Educator’s homes must meet Ministry of Education regulations and DCCA policies and procedures. Visiting teachers regularly carry out health and safety checks, monitor and advise the education and care programme and facilitate playgroups. Relationships are very important; homebased is all about good fit. Finding the right educator for your child and family is our visiting teachers’ most important focus. Read DCCA’s recent Education Review Office report on its website: www.dcca.org.nz. Face book DCCA at www.dcca.org.nz or phone 03-456-3213.
education
Parenting girls Parenting girls involves the same fundamental parenting skills as for boys. These skills include setting up a good one-to-one relationship with your daughter; discussing with her your expectations and supporting her with her difficulties.
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dditionally, parents need to run a wellorganised household that provides structure and routines so that your daughter is supported in her efforts to meet the demands of family, school, hobbies and sports commitments. Finally, it also involves setting clear boundaries and providing natural and logical consequences if she persists in breaking those boundaries. As well as practising these critically important parenting skills, it pays for parents to consider that the strengths of girls’ personalities can also have associated liabilities. Many girls have strongly developed empathy skills, which enables them to form close and supportive relationships with both family and friends. The downside of this is that girls can become over-involved with too many social relationships, and become overextended in trying to meet the resulting maintenance demands of these relationships. Wise parents monitor the danger signs of this and help their daughters to moderate this tendency. Associated with this tendency of having too many social contacts, some girls overburden
themselves with the worries of their friends and relatives, and become anxious and preoccupied about their inevitable ups and downs. Some girls have large friendship groups in which all the girls are endlessly preoccupied with yet another problem of one of the members, and these constant worries affect the mental outlook of all the girls involved in the group. Including in this mix of relationships is the tendency of some younger girls to become intensely involved with one particular friend with which they share their most intimate and personal secrets. Sometimes these friendships can blossom into enduring adult friendships which bring great happiness and support for both girls. However, they can also end into catastrophic breakups which unleash intense feelings of grief, betrayal and anger. At times these feelings are shared and amplified by the wider friendship groups of both girls, and then a longstanding social vendetta involving rumours and slander can go back and forth between the ex-friends and their friends, causing a great deal of hurt and misery to the girls involved. Wise parents and teachers then should intervene, and should invest time and counsel the two girls into accepting the breakup of their friendship, and to insist on stopping the social vendetta. It also pays for fathers and mothers to consider their individual approaches with their daughters. Fathers have a great influence on their daughters, and the strength of this parental relationship will delay the need for a girl to start searching for a boyfriend-girlfriend relationship. This delay is an advantage, because it will enable your daughter to embark on these kind of relationships with far greater
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maturity and internal stability. Fathers also need to be aware that many girls want to process their feelings by just talking things through, and that often the best thing a father can do is to lend a listening ear, without too much advice giving. Mothers too can benefit from standing back and reflecting on their relationship with their daughter. Many daughters will testify that their mothers are their best friends, and research shows that mothers support their daughters right through their adult lives. However, there can be a downside to these strong mother-daughter relationships in that the daughter is unable to extricate herself from her parent, and is not able to ever become a truly independent and autonomous person in her own right. A mother therefore needs to be careful to foster the independence of her daughter. Before girls embark on their teenage years,
it pays for parents to lay a strong foundation of instilling safe self-management practices. Teenage years are exhilarating and at times difficult, but the best parents manage to negotiate and/or insist on safety first. Research shows that those parents who have developed and maintained strong, caring and mutually respectful relationships with their daughters manage to get their girls through the difficult adolescent times, and witness them blossomin into strong and wonderful young women. All this takes steady self-reflection; the determination to be the best parent you can be; the wisdom and love to engage with your daughter as she encounters difficulties and the courage to intervene when she requires your boundaries, support and guidance. By Joseph Driessen, education consultant Driessen speaks to parent and teacher groups about education. Email j.o.d@xtra.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.
Disability Information Service
Free disability and health related information. Now sell daily living aids and incontinence products. Phone: 03-471 6152 or 0800-693 342 E-mail:dis.dn@xtra.co.nz
www.disabilityinfo.co.nz
Dunedin Budget Advisory Service
Phone: 03-471 6158 Free confidential advice on personal budgets. How to manage your money, options and plans for debt repayment.\
Citizens Advice Bureau
Phone: 0800 367 222 or 03-471 6166 For free information advice and support that is confidential and impartial.
Problems with Alcohol or other Drugs? Call the Alcohol Drug Helpline today for free, confidential, friendly professional advice. Phone: 0800-787 797 www.alcoholdrughelp.org.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.
English Language Classes Learn Kiwi English in a group for a few hours each week Low cost All English levels Learn about NZ culture Meet other learners Mondays 1 - 3 p.m. North East Valley Tuesdays 10 - 12 a.m. South Dunedin Mondays and Wednesdays 9 - 11 a.m. in South Dunedin Advanced English - Mondays 6 - 8 p.m. Register your interest now: English Language Partners Dunedin Telephone: 477-7261 Email: dunedin@englishlanguage.org.nz www.englishlanguage.org.nz
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.
Project Hauora Are you sick of hearing words such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, renal failure, arthritis, oral decay, and cancer? Dunedin North Intermediate (DNI) School is carrying out a new community health initiative - Project Hauora - for Dunedin residents, to help reduce chronic disease in its community. The school will run a series of free workshops and seminars over the next eight months, based at DNI School. The idea is to practice in our homes what is taught in the health curriculum in New Zealand schools, and to learn how to actively reduce health risks in a fun and interactive way, as well as provide consistency and role
Tinker Bell and the Secret of the Wings
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Journey with Tinker Bell and her fairy friends into the forbidden world of the mysterious Winter Woods, where curiosity and adventure lead Tink to an amazing discovery and reveal a magical secret that could change her world forever. Family Times have five packs to give away containing a watch, kids’ T-shirt and poster. Enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz or write your name and address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: Tinker Bell and the Secret of the Wings, PO Box 36 004, Christchurch, to reach us by 12 October 2012. Check out our website for more fantastic competitions. In cinemas 4 October.
modelling for our tamariki/kids and their whanau and friends. Project Hauora includes a family-friendly workshop series with four modules in the October school holidays and one-da intensive workshops at the weekends ov the next few months, and again in 2013. These are for the whole whanau. The second part of Project Hauora is a f public seminar series (Cafe Hauora) aro the theme “Our People, Our Health, Our Community”. They are on the last Wednesday of each month at 7 pm. For further information on times and da email projecthauora@gmail.com or pho call into the DNI school office.
Family Fun Spring fun at the Dunedin Botanic Garden
Cycle Skills
There are three new children’s self-guided garden quizzes available from the information centre, which is open daily from 10 am until 4 pm. Quizzes are free of charge and are based in the lower Garden and the aviary. The Rhododendron Dell will be full of blooms, enticing the adults in while kids explore the bush tracks and nooks and crannies. There are beautiful city views from sunny vantage points, lawns for picnicking. Visit Sid the Talking Cockatoo and his Macaw friends in the aviary in any weather – he’s taught them to talk too.
Chinese Garden Moon Festival
Moana Pool
To celebrate the Moon Festival, children aged 5-18 years are invited to enter our poetry competition – the theme is of course the moon! We have lots of fun activities during the holidays, from a rabbit hunt to a treasure hunt, from our comfy reading corner to dress ups in our costume area, from puzzles to making moon masks.
Splash Fest. 1 – 5 October and 8 – 12 October. Try your hand at snorkelling, diving or kayaking at our ‘Have a Go’ afternoons! Have some fun with our rolling log and large inflatables in the pool from 10.30-3.30pm. Regular pool entry charges apply for all activities Moana Pool has a range of swimming areas, a multitude of fitness facilities and heaps of entertainment for children. Opening Times Main, Dive/Lap & Dive Pools: Weekdays 6am – 10pm, Sat & Sun 7am – 7pm Leisure Pool (Features from 10am): Weekdays 6am – 9pm, Sat & Sun 7am – 7pm Water Slides (School holidays): Weekdays 10am – 7pm, Sat & Sun 10am – 5pm Toddler time: 8.30am-3.30pm daily
Once Upon a Sunday Kaitrin McMillan, Dunedin’s professional storyteller, spins a yarn in the City Library’s Storypit • Every first Sunday of the month at 2pm (excludes Public Holidays) • City Library
Our own oasis in the city A DEPARTMENT OF THE DUNEDIN CITY COUNCIL
The only authentic
scholar’s garden in the southern hemisphere
Visit the teahouse
for traditional tea and dumplings
Appreciate the garden at dusk
on Wednesday evenings Join us daily to
feed the goldfish A range of unique gifts to purchase at the Tea Shop
Open Daily 10.00am - 5.00pm Admission Charges Apply Phone 477 3248 Cnr Cumberland & Rattray Sts (beside Toitū Otago Settlers Museum)
The Dunedin City Council’s Cycle Skills Training programme has been trialled at Musselburgh Primary School and East Taieri Primary School this year. The programme is based on best practice and will provide children with the skills to cycle competently and confidently on and off road. The DCC will offer the programme to eight more schools next year and is seeking expressions of interest. The cycle skills training programme emphasises: – Teaching best practice cycle skills so cyclists can manage hazards they may encounter – Community safety benefits – more cyclists on the road will positively influence driver behaviour and traffic congestion at the school gates will be eased – Encouraging physical activity as part of the everyday trip to and from school There are two stages in the programme: – Grade one: five hours of training about safe off road cycling (such as in the school playground) – Grade two: eight hours of practical on road training, in an area where there is traffic If you’re keen to brush up on your cycle skills we are running courses for family groups from 1 – 6 October and 8 – 12 October, at the Edgar Centre. These courses are designed to teach adults and children how to cycle together safely on and off road. Please contact Charlotte Flaherty on 477 4000 to book your place on one of these courses.
Nurture your tiny tycoons
This issue we interviewed students from Kaikorai Primary School to get their thoughts on how their lives compare to their parents and if they would like more independence.
Lucy Sansom, age 10
My dad talks about when he was young; he used to deliver newspapers and he sometimes got the strap at school! I think we have more free time because we don’t have as many chores. I think we have an easier life now, though people do naughtier stuff because they know they are only going to get told off and that’s not that bad. My parents do everything at home and we could help more to make it fair.
S
ome kids are always looking for ways to make money. It’s not unusual to spot tiny tycoons at local markets flogging their wares, slipping a note in the letterbox offering their dog walking or grass cutting services, or out and about on their leaflet drop.
With a bit of guidance from an adult, kids’ first steps towards making their own money can teach them important financial lessons that can set them up for a profitable future. One of the harshest lessons for young entrepreneurs is that going into business involves set-up costs that can’t be avoided. To bake cupcakes for sale, there’s the cost of ingredients; mowing lawns requires a lawnmower and petrol. These costs needn’t discourage young money makers. Negotiate them with your child. It’s about striking a balance between nurturing business nous and using the venture as an opportunity to demonstrate the realities of business in a way that won’t squash their initiative. Explain to your child that, when deciding on the price of the goods they’re selling, they need to do more than cover the costs of production in order for them to make a profit. Setting the price at double the cost of ingredients is a good rule of thumb to start with. Make sure the costs include other business expenses like hiring a stand at the local fair or market. Buying and selling gives your child real life experience dealing with cash – something they
Rialto holiday deals These school holidays bring the kids to see the best movies at the best cinema in town! Rialto Cinemas offers great value 2D family passes, starting from just $29 for three people (one adult and two children) or $39 for four people (two adults and two children). Special: Bring your Family Times voucher and get $2 off the four person pass, or see one of Rialto’s 3D movies with the 3D family passes – the three person pass is only $37 and the four person pass is only $50! For movie and session information visit www.rialto.co.nz or call 03-474-2200.
Kieran Kelly, age 9
My parents often talk about when they were kids; it was stricter back then but still fun. It’s not as strict now and you have more choices and technology. We are still expected to behave well but we don’t have as bad punishments. I would like more freedom; to be able to go where I want, when I want to. Quite often parents have good reasons for why you can’t do things but sometimes I think they are overreacting.
may not be familiar with given the prolific use of EFTPOS in New Zealand. Many children think that money comes from a hole in the wall (an ATM) rather than being something that is earned through working. Handling cash allows them to understand what money actually buys and how much things actually cost. They will also quickly learn how much they need to sell and how long they have to work to earn $5, $10 and $100. Once your child has cash from their sales, talk to them about saving and spending. Encourage them to set a goal when it comes to their hardearned money. Setting a goal to buy something they really want like an iPad or an Xbox game teaches them about saving and that money can earn interest. Starting their own business is a wonderful opportunity for children to follow their passion or profit from their special skills. As well as learning how to handle money and develop a work ethic, they will also experience first-hand the excitement, sense of achievement and risks that go along with starting a business. Nurturing a child’s entrepreneurial spirit is about encouraging and supporting them while teaching them about what it takes to run a business. If your child has a burning enthusiasm for something and it’s paired with knowledge about how to run a business, it could plant the seed for a successful financial future. The money lessons they learn now will set them up for life. This column was provided by independent money guide Sorted. Through its website, booklets and seminars, Sorted provides free, independent and impartial information, calculators and tools to help New Zealanders to become financially sorted.
1 ADULT, 2 KIDS 2 ADULTS, 2 KIDS    Â?Â?Â?Â? Â€Â?‚€Â?ƒ„
3D FAMILY PASS ANY
Present this voucher at Rialto Cinemas to receive a $2 discount on our 3D 3-person or 4-person family pass prices. Valid until 17 Oct 2012. 3-Person Family Pass - $35! 4-Person Family Pass - Only $48!
Georgia Ward, age 9
I think we are luckier now; I don’t have any chores but I like washing the dishes and lighting the fire with dad. I think I should be allowed to light the fire by myself and do more cooking. I like to cook; sometimes I’m allowed and I ask my sister to show me what things mean and how to do it. Often I’m not allowed because I get in the way.
Bailey Devenie, age 9
Dad used to be allowed to go home for lunch and if he didn’t get back to school before lunch finished you would get the strap. Technology today is cool but life is more complicated. I think my parents do too much for me, it’s sort of a good thing- they say they spend too much money on us kids. I think it’s 50/50 about parents being too protective - I think they have good reasons.
WIN,WIN,
WIN
WIN,WIN,
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Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days In the third movie based on the popular Jeff Kinney books, during his summer vacation, Greg Heffley hatches a plan to pretend he has a job at a ritzy country club, which fails to keep him away from the season’s dog days including embarrassing mishaps at the pool and a camping trip that goes horribly wrong! Opens in cinemas 27 September. Family Times have five prize packs to give away containing a notebook and name label, colouring pencils, stationery set, bookmark and a double movie pass!
WIN,WIN,
WIN,WIN,
WIN
WIN On
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September
MADAGASCAR 3: EUROPE’S MOST WANTED opens in NZ cinemas with Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo, and Melman the Giraffe still fighting to get home to their beloved Big Apple, and of course King Julien, Maurice and the Penguins are all along for the comedic adventure. Their journey takes them through Europe where they find the perfect cover: a travelling circus, which they reinvent – Madagascar style. Family Times has 4 prize packs including family passes, circus activity backpack, silicon watch, slap on wristband and travel set as well as 8 runner-up prize packs of merchandise to give away! Check out www.madagascarmovie.co.nz. Entries close 26th September 2012
MADAGASCAR 3: EUROPE’S MOST WANTED Š 2012 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Right Reserved.�
The Family Times Design Competition What does your whanau look like? We’d love to see a drawing of you and your whanau. Draw them for us and be in to win an amazing $50 prize pack from Crayola! 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 12 October 2012.
Congratulations to our winter Olympic design poster competition winners from our last issue.
Kids helping in the community Volunteers are the backbone of society. Volunteers of all ages shape society and make our communities stronger, and a greater place to live in. Volunteering comes in so many shapes and forms, from individual to team volunteering, one off or ongoing, project or skills based the limits are endless. Volunteering gives you an opportunity to learn new skills and life experience, practise your skills in your chosen area/field of interest, network/meet new people and gain lifelong relationships, connect to your community and make a real difference, brighten your day and engage in something you are passionate about. New Zealanders contribute 270 million hours of formal, unpaid work for non-profit organisations annually. It is evident that the majority of volunteers are older. It’s not often that the work of young volunteers is mentioned, nor the benefits they receive from it, yet they have a profound impact upon the future of the society we live in. Younger children who volunteer are taught important life skills and positive healthy lifestyles; it improves the community; young children reap rewards as they are curious to achieve higher
and seek challenges, and finally it encourages a life-long ethic to help others that is vital in today’s world. Volunteering New Zealand suggests to anyone who wants to actively get involved in volunteering to either fill in a form at www.volunteernow.org.nz or head to the nearest volunteer centre and they will align yours or your child’s needs to an appropriate organisation. There are 18 centres across New Zealand in all major cities Visit www. volunteernow.org.nz for more details.
New specials at Willie Cargills Jessica Zhang, Auckland, age nine – 12 years
Misha Simpson, Auckland, age five – eight years Just tick the things you want to win
Spring 2012 Orana Wildlife Park MADAGASCAR 3: EUROPE’S MOST WANTED Tekapo Springs Mocka Balance Bike and Cruise Trike!
Name Address
Quality Hotel Cargills, a name associated with quality service and a personal approach, has renamed its restaurant Atrium on the George to Willie Cargills. Quality Hotels Cargills is close to the centre of the city and has been a part of Dunedin since 1962, earlier known as Cherry Court. The hotel consists of 51 rooms, the award winning restaurant, the Neesham Lounge Bar as well as three conference rooms. Quality Hotel Cargills is a relaxed, family-friendly venue, suitable for any occasion; birthday party, wedding or any other
special event. The new menu at Willie Cargills restaurant, which also includes a kids menu, was created with the taste and preferences of the local people in mind. Book for Willie Cargills’ special dishes, excellent quality, great value, and an unforgettable experience. The beautiful cherry courtyard inside the hotel premises also creates the right ambience for casual dining. For reservations and bookings call on 03-4777983 or 0800-737-378. www.cargills.co.nz.
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 12th October 2012, unless stated otherwise. Only one entry per household. 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. This month we have a fantastic line up of prizes with more great giveaways online… Good luck!. Check out last issue’s lucky winners online.
Tekapo Springs Why not take the family to Lake Tekapo this summer? Tekapo Springs is open 10am-9pm daily and there is an activity to suit every member of the family. Enjoy soaking in one of the three outdoor hot pools that overlook the lake, skate around the outdoor rink or let gravity take you down the new summer tube park. Take a breath and relax as you dine out on the new patio overlooking Lake Tekapo. We have a family pass for two adults and up to three children (18 years) to give away.
Mocka Balance Bike and Cruise Trike! Mocka’s wooden balance bikes (or running bikes) are designed to develop your child’s balance and co-ordination in preparation for riding their first push-bike. New to the range is the Mocka Cruise Trike which is suitable for wee ones who aren’t quite big enough for our Balance Bikes. Mocka and Family Times have 2 Balance Bikes or Cruise Trikes to give away (winners will be contacted to make their choice).
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cool activities
Calendar of Events of all to Dunedin. On at 8pm at the Regent This spring Dunedin has a Theatre. For tickets phone 03-477-8597. huge variety of events on offer with something to excite 28-30 September World Daffodil Convention. Nothing says every member of the family. spring has arrived like daffodils! The best
22 September St Joseph’s school fair. Toys, books, Tombola, raffles, white elephant, baking, and much more. From 11am at St Joseph’s School, Bernicia Street, Port Chalmers.
26th September Café Hauora - Smiles for life. Free public seminar on how lifestyle choices from infancy onwards affect our long-term oral health. From 7pm at Dunedin North Intermediate School. Please email projecthauora@gmail.com to register for childcare. For more information visit www.dni.school.nz.
28 September Swan Lake. The Imperial Russian Ballet Company brings the most loved classical ballet
blooms from around the world will be on display to admire. Edgar Centre, adults $5, children free. For opening times phone the Edgar Centre on 03-456-1200.
5-14 October Monkey Business. Watch out for two cheeky chappies frolicking through the streets of downtown Dunedin. These Otago Festival of the Arts ambassadors are fun and family-friendly. Free.
6 October Chalktagon. Come and decorate the footpaths and streets in the Octagon with coloured chalk. The Octagon will be closed to vehicle traffic for this creative day of fun, which is part of the Otago Festival of the Arts. On 10am to 2pm, free.
Cycle safety Learning to ride a bike is a huge milestone for many children.
which has no pedals and allows children to move forward using their feet, is an ideal first bike for younger children.
B
All cyclists are required to wear a helmet. When selecting one for your child make sure it is the right size and shape for their head. Buying a helmet that doesn’t fit means your child’s head won’t be protected if they fall off. When buying a helmet: • Make sure the helmet is standards approved. You can tell if it complies as there will be a standards sticker on the inside. • For information on how to fit your child’s helmet correctly, visit the resources page at bikewise.co.nz.
icycles are an important source of exercise, transportation and recreation, and for many children in New Zealand, learning to ride a bicycle is an important part of their play and development. Cycling related injuries are however one of the top 10 causes of unintentional injuryrelated deaths for children, and one of the top three causes of unintentional injury related hospitalisations for children in New Zealand. “Safekids is about keeping kids free to enjoy their childhood, which includes cycling in their communities and to school, without the adverse effects of unintentional injuries,” said Safekids New Zealand director Ann Weaver.
Here are some tips to keep your child cycle-safe: Buy a bike that suits your child’s height, skills and riding experience Buying a bike that your child will grow into is unsafe, and could cause them to have an accident. To see if a bike is too big for your child, get them to sit on the saddle - if their toes don’t touch the ground on both sides then it’s too big. Make sure they feel comfortable when seated. Visit your local bike shop for an expert opinion on finding the right bike for your child.
The best bicycle for learning on For young or new cyclists the best bicycle to learn on should have: • A frame that can easily be straddled by the cyclist. • a seat where the cyclist can easily reach the ground with their feet when seated. • handlebars at seat level or above. • limited gear options. • brakes that are appropriate to the age and ability of the cyclist. Back pedal brakes may be a better alternative to hand brakes for very young children with small hands - these are available on some tricycles and small bicycles. Another thing to consider is buying a bike with training wheels, as this will help your child get used to balancing. A balance bike,
Choosing a helmet
Some important safety tips • Lead by example. Teach your child the
right road rules. Ensure your child cycles with a supervisor if they are under the age of 10. • Think about enrolling your child on a cyclist skills training course, which can help them build their cycling confidence and skills. • Maintain their cycle regularly – check their brakes, tyres and chain. If you have any doubts, its best to get their bike serviced by an expert or cycle shop. For more information visit www.bikewise.co.nz
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Sound workshop. Learn how to make simple field recordings in this limited-numbers workshop (children aged 10-years and over). From 2pm to 4pm at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, $5 entry, cash only. For bookings phone 03-474-3240. Lantern making workshop. Illuminate your holidays and learn to create beautiful lanterns. From 11am at the Dunedin Chinese Gardens. For more information phone 03-477-3248.
6-13 October Meet the Artists at Meridian. Come and sneak a peek at some of the extraordinary talent performing at the Otago Festival of the Arts. From 12.15pm daily at the Meridian, free.
12-14 October
Explore and discover at the Otago Museum.
Hatched. Harry Potter meets Edward Scissor Hands in the gothic fairytale, Hatched. Told with giant books, old-world marionettes and sign language, Hatched will enchant children and grownups alike. For bookings visit www. otagofestival.co.nz. Spooky Men’s Chorale. This performance will take you on a song-filled rollercoaster ride that is fun for the whole family. For bookings visit www.otagofestival.co.nz.
20-22 October Miniature Model National Convention. Come and view New Zealand’s best miniature modellers and their amazingly detailed works. From 10am to 4pm at the Edgar Centre, adults $6, children under 15 $5.
28 October School Fair- St Mary’s School. Enjoy a fun day out: bouncy castle, pony rides, food stalls and games as well as Harley Davidson rides. From 11am to 2pm, 62 Church Street, Mosgiel.
31 October Café Hauora - We are what we eat. Free public seminar on food choices and changing eating habits. From 7pm at Dunedin North Intermediate School. Please email projecthauora@gmail.com to register for childcare. For more information visit www.dni. school.nz.
2 December Santa Parade. Don’t miss Santa and all his friends as they head down George Street. Put it in your calendar now! From 2pm, free.
9 December RASA Show 2012. Thinking of joining a dance class in 2013? Come along to the RASA show and see different dance styles before you enrol. On at 6pm at the Regent Theatre, tickets available mid-November from Ticketdirect. For more information visit www.danz.org.nz/ rasa.php Compiled by Rosanna Lister
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cool activities
Entertainment Emerge from the cold and thaw out with fabulous family spring entertainment. Rialto Cinemas Bring the kids to a movie at the best cinema in town! Rialto Cinemas offers great value family passes, 2D passes starting from just $29 and 3D from just $37. For information visit www. rialto.co.nz or call 03-474-2200.
Otago Festival of the Arts This festival will brim with a spectacular mix of music, theatre, dance and visual arts over 10 days and nights, 5-14 October. Visit www. otagofestival.co.nz.
Blue Line Music Studio Free workshops! Come to the studio every Monday night (during term) for free workshops in a range of subjects from song writing to recording, to instrument maintenance. Visit www.bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz/free. Sponsored by DCC Creative Communities.
School Of Rock Get along to Rock Camp 2012. Guest mentors include The Feelers, Kora, The Exponents and more. On 19-23 December (early bird registrations close 1 October). For ages 12 to18-years. Registrations 0800762-566 or www.rockcamp.co.nz.
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.
Taieri Gorge Railway and The Seasider train trips Experience Dunedin from Dunedin Railway Station. Daily departures, all weather attraction, sight-seeing stops. One child free with each paying adult. Phone 03-477-4449. Visit www.taieri.co.nz.
Holiday Specials Keep busy with special holiday activities available in Dunedin this spring.
The Polkadots in concert. New Zealand’s premier children’s entertainers perform one show only on 12 October at 10am, Kaikorai Valley College. Absolutely free. For details and tickets visit Facebook. com/polkadotsnz.
Basketball Otago Oceana Gold Diggers’ October Holiday Basketball Beginner/Youth Camp. Come and see if you like basketball or hone your skills with some of our elite players if you’re already into the game. Ages 8-13. For bookings and information phone 03-456-4063.
Otago Museum It’s monster madness at Otago Museum! Stomp and thrash with fearsome freaky science shows, tropical horrors in the forest and a dastardly deeds trail to solve. Visit www. otagomuseum.govt.nz for details.
Family physical activity Stride, Ride & Slide Get outside and active in A super fun multisport day for big little kids the warmer weather with aged 2-5. Sunday 28 October, 10am to 1pm at these fun family activities and University oval rugby field two, Logan Park. Registrations open 1 October online at www. events. sportotago.co.nz. Scottish Highland Games
Move Me
An afternoon of games for the whole family where participation is a must! Traditional games for children and highland events for the grownups. On 25 November, 12pm to 5pm at Caledonian Ground, Logan Park. Cost - $10 gate charge, children under 14 free.
Looking for some new ideas for the family? To view activity maps, check out upcoming events, find a new community activity, as well as information on nutrition and getting active every day, head to www.moveme.org.nz. Compiled by Rosanna Lister
Kiwi Flyer - The first Kiwi family movie in 27 years When 12-year-old Ben sets out to win the local trolley derby in the memory of his father, he learns what matters in life. He is forced to battle an Aussie family who will stop at nothing to win the trophy, the school loan sharks and a mother who has banned him from the race. The story is filmed entirely in the beautiful city of Nelson, and based around the annual trolley derby that has been run on and off for the last 60 years. Kiwi Flyer is a story that comes from the heart of being a Kiwi. At its core are ideas that inspire all New Zealanders: dream big, Kiwi’s can do! This gem of a film is guaranteed to enthral and entertain families from Kaitaia to Bluff and back again. Kiwi flyer features an ensemble of true-blue Kiwi talent with a cast including Tandi Wright (Nothing Trivial, Out of the Blue), comedian Dai Henwood (7 Days), Vince Martin (Beaurepaires) and introducing to the big screen Edward Hall and Tikkirau Hathaway. Don’t miss the rousing soundtrack from the inimitable Don McGlashan (The Mutton
Birds). Kiwi Flyer was produced by Tim Sanders (Whale Rider, The Lord of the Rings – Fellowship of the Ring, Frighteners) and directed by Tony Simpson. Kiwi flyer will be in a cinema near you from 27 September, in time for the September school holidays. Check out the trailer at www.kiwiflyerthemovie.co.nz. When it’s Kiwi’s vs. Aussies, there can only be one winner!
“Meet The Polkadots, New Zealand’s premier children’s entertainers on tour during the October school holidays. For details visit Facebook.com/polkadotsnz.
Dunedin Public Art Gallery Construct a cool cardboard creation based on The Sound of Plants and Music exhibit, 10am to 4.30pm from 1-14 October. Children under seven must be accompanied by an adult, free.
It’s My Turn to Cook Tonight- Bosch school holiday programme Get your children cooking in your home, using your food, with a nationwide online event, guided by Claire Gourley. From 2– 4 October, visit www.foodsavvykids.com for information.
Dunedin Public Libraries Sign up for the sunflower growing competition and see how tall it grows over summer! Register for this free activity at any Dunedin library from 29 September–Sunday 14 October.
Chinese Garden Enjoy spring time and stories in the garden. Hear the tale of the Jade Rabbit and fairy princess living in the moon. On 3 October, 1.30pm to 2.30pm and 8 October, 2pm to 3pm.
Project Hauora Free health and wellbeing workshops for the whole family. Full day or two half-day
workshops available over the school holidays. For workshop times, bookings and information email projecthauora@gmail.com, or visit www.dni.school.nz. Compiled by Rosanna Lister
parties
Old-fashioned birthday party fun Birthday parties are a momentous occasion full of fun and laughter, and create many happy memories for years to come.
adults lap and with their help unwrapping and passing the parcel).
The chocolate game
M
any parents will have a favourite birthday party game they recall from their childhood: why not relive this joy time and time again? A lot of the games from yesteryear are still very popular today, require minimal planning and expense, and will guarantee lots of fun for everyone on the day. Here are some of the old classics from times past that are still delighting many at birthday parties today.
Pass the parcel
This can be played either outside or in. All you need is a pre-wrapped gift and to wrap it in loose layers of gift wrap or newspaper, with a small treat in each layer. To play the game, sit the children in a circle, play some short snippets of music and have them pass the parcel to the next person in the circle. When the music stops, the person holding the parcel removes one layer of wrapping and gets that treat. Repeat until the last layer of wrapping has been removed, restarting and stopping the music each time. You can use different treats for each layer to add a bit of mystery and keep the children interested longer. Out of fairness to all party goers, you may like to make sure you have enough layers of wrapping to cover all the partygoers and ensure the music stops at each child so they all get a turn. Suitable for any age group (even very small toddlers can play, perhaps sitting on an
This is a game of chance, and is a lot of fun! It is more suitable for children who are able to use a knife and fork. All that is required is a die, an outfit such as hat gloves and jacket or large shirt, a knife and fork, and chocolate on a plate. All the kids sit around in a circle and take turns throwing a dice. When someone throws a six, they have to put the clothes on as fast as they can, then use the knife and fork to start chopping a block of chocolate and eating it square by square with the fork as fast as they can. As soon as the next person throws a six, they have to stop eating and take the costume off. The game continues until all the chocolate is finished.
Pinata
Pinatas are a paper-mache or other type of light container that is decorated and filled with treats, most commonly associated with Mexico. These can be purchased or made cheaply by layering strips of newspaper glued together with a flour and water paste onto a balloon, dried and then painted. Allow a space at the top large enough to fill with treats and then hang on a tree branch or similar with strong twine or string. Each child takes turn hitting the pinata with a stick or bat until all the treats fall out. Make sure the rest of the children are a safe distance from the “hitter” as they await their turn.
Pin the tail on the donkey
Draw an outline of a donkey on a large sheet of cardboard and place this up on a wall or corkboard at a low height. On a separate piece of card, draw a tail, or if you feel particularly creative, find a small scarf or fluffy fabric to act as the tail. Place a pin at the top of the tail
(take care here). Make as many tails as there are children and put their names on these. Put a large mark on the donkey where the child needs to aim. Each child is blindfolded and has a turn one-at-a-time to place the tail where they think it should be. The closest to the actual spot is the winner (have a prize ready!).
Get physical – race ideas
Burn off all the party treats with some solid
physical activity. Test the children’s balance and co-ordination with an egg-and-spoon race: each child at the start line holds a spoon with an egg on it (hardboiled recommended!). At the start command, they move as quickly as they can to the finish line without the egg falling off the spoon. They are only allowed to hold the spoon with one hand. If the egg falls they are out of the race. The quickest to cross the line with the egg still on the spoon is the winner! Another race variation is the sack race, suitable for all ages. Children place both of their legs inside a sack or pillow case that reaches their waist or neck and jump forward from a starting point toward a finish line. The first person to cross the finish line is the winner of the race.
Chipmunks Playland and Cafe Birthday parties at Chipmunks No Stress No Mess Open 7 Days a week Mon - Fri 9.30 - 6pm Sat – Sun 9.30 – 5pm Enquire today Dunedin@chipmunks.co.nz Ph 4776762
PERFECT GIFTS FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES! 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
Chipmunks Playland and Café is Dunedin’s number one stop for children’s entertainment, with a cafe and indoor playground for children aged from 0 to 11-years-old. Sweeping tube slides, ball pits, inflatable slide and an 8 cannon ball blaster keep everyone entertained for hours. For preschoolers there’s a pirate ship with a slide into a ball pit. Chipmunks is open seven days, supervises before and after school care including transport, has school holiday programmes, and is the perfect birthday party venue. Let the fun begin.
Your ideas
Do you remember fun birthday games from your childhood? Have you dreamt up your own, updated some “oldies” or do you have some other fun entertainment ideas? Please share them with us so we can spread the fun around. Send information to Family Times , PO Box 36 004, Christchurch or email admin@familytimes.co.nz.
How children shape their world through play
baby & toddler
You see, children aspire to the hero they see in Miniature toys such as dolls, us everyday – the one who responds to their action figures, toy vehicles, needs – the responsible, reliable, “go to”. The animals, dinosaurs, aliens, and desire to be like us is often reflected in this kind of play: feeding your baby doll, gassing up your the like are powerful tools in Tonka truck, defeating the bad guys or kissing the frog to turn him into a prince. Even “smash the hands of little ones. And and bash” play, such as an all out Hot Wheels for good reason: this kind of demolition derby in the living room, is about controlling events -smashing things up, putting it play shrinks the world down all back together, then smashing them up again! into manageable, kid-sized In short, miniatures let children figure out experiences for working out how to make everything right with the world complex, emotional and social according to their own world view. Separating the boys from concepts. the girls About the time children start exploring Power play these play patterns you may begin to notice If you think about it, when you’re little, it’s easy to confuse size with power. After all, grown-ups are big and seem to think they can tell children what to do. So when children play with miniatures they naturally take on the power role, trying on what it feels like to be big, to have the ultimate say and to control events. And through that power, like Spiderman, children naturally learn how to take on responsibility.
differences between what boys and girls choose to play with. Often, this seems to come out of nowhere. I’ve had many parents swear to me that they provide a balanced, nongender selection of toys, don’t allow television or computer time, yet still their sons choose trucks and army guys, and their daughters choose dolls and tea sets. There has always been a nature/nurture debate about whether or not these play choices are part of a child’s organic wiring or if it’s due to what they are assimilating from their environment. Here’s what I believe:
There is no difference
In these early years, a child’s play choices have little – and maybe even nothing – to do with his/her gender and everything to do with
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what he/she needs to experiment with and solve emotionally and socially. And because miniatures give all the power to the child, they are ideal for this kind of internal exploration of self. Any “meaning” ascribed to a child’s choice of doll or action figure, magic wand or light saber, princess carriage or Batmobile, is an adult filter that misses the point. So often, boys and girls play the exact same way; to tend to, fix, take care of, nourish, rescue, solve, defend and restore. In short, to make the lives of others better. And in my view, when children are reaching for these values this early in life, something
really right is going on with their upbringing, no matter what they pick out of the toy box. By Gill Connell Gill Connell is founder of Moving Smart, co-author of Moving to Learn, and a child development expert with a focus on the natural development of children’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development through movement. Visit www.movingsmart.co.nz or www.movingsmartblog.blogspot.com.
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Let’s go tramping! Taking your children into the well-fitting sneakers with good tread are essential. Watch out for blisters as children outdoors is a great way to don’t always notice these are forming. spend time with your family, Keep them interested Visit places that offer something for everyone have fun and discover new a quiet forest may not appeal to an eight-yearthings. And an overnight stay old in the same way as it does to you! in a backcountry hut is a great Share your adventures with other families with children of similar ages - the kids will feed off adventure. The very idea of each other and keep each other energised. venturing into the wilds with Keep them fed and watered Young people need frequent top-ups when children can seem daunting, walking. Take high energy snacks like barley but it’s easier than you sugars and milo in a thermos to warm up cold insides. A sheet of plastic folds up small to fit think, and there are plenty into a daypack, and provides a dry place to sit. of options not too far from Keep them warm home. Layers of clothing are the key. You can be How far can you go on your first tramp? Further than you think! The average 3-year old should be able to walk a couple of kilometres. Be prepared to let toddlers walk some and be carried some. Older children of course should be able to go much further but to start off, pick destinations within three hours walking time. Allow plenty of time for discovery along the way.
Let them pack and carry their own gear Most kids really want to carry a pack, but a toy and a small bottle of water are enough for littlies to start with. Be prepared to carry it for them later if they get tired. Older ones can carry their own warm top and snacks, torch and survival blanket. They don’t need special tramping boots, but
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warm while walking, but cool down quickly when you stop. Wool, polypropylene or polar fleece are best as they keep you warm even when wet. Take a warm hat, mittens and spare woolly socks, and a waterproof jacket. If you’re carrying a toddler in a backpack check often that hands, feet and head are still warm.
Keep them safe
Children like to run ahead but be aware: bush and forest can be risky. It’s impossible to fence off every steep drop or stream so keep them close and in sight.
Checklist of what to take:
• Take a comfort toy if your child has one – it’s hard to sleep in a strange place! • You need to be completely self-sufficient with a sleeping bag for everyone, cooking stove and pots, plates, cups and cutlery. • Carry a map and compass, first aid and survival kits, water bottle and plenty of highenergy food. Christchurch, to reach us by 12 October 2012. www.macpac.co.nz
WIN,WIN,
WIN
The spectacular view from the Taieri River walk. Photo: Lucy Hardy
• •
Carry a tent or fly as huts can fill up at any time. Hire a 406MHz personal locator beacon, mountain radio, or satellite phone for backup. Mobile phones rarely work in the mountains.
Wonderful walk along Taieri River If your children like walking through bush, the Taieri River walk near Dunedin has plenty of native forest as well as breathtaking views. The 8km walk starts at Taieri Mouth, a scenic 40 minute drive from Dunedin. To reach Taieri Mouth, take the coastal road south of Dunedin, via Green Island and Brighton to Taieri Mouth. Cross the bridge and turn right into Riverside Road to reach the start of the track. It goes all the way to Henley on the Taieri, but we usually walk the two hours one way
to the grassy picnic spot at John Bull Gully. It’s a hilly but not steep walk and older children should manage it. In parts it can be muddy and slippery so good footwear is essential. This is a wonderful walk that twists and turns through a range of native vegetation, including regenerating manuka. The vegetation has characteristics of both salt and freshwater habitat, as the river in the gorge is tidal and therefore saline. Crabs on the mudflats scuttle down their holes when disturbed. Halfway to John Bull Gully, you can catch your breath at the lookout seat and enjoy spectacular views of the Taieri River, the river mouth, out to sea, Moturata/Taieri Island, and Taieri Plain in the other direction. By Andrea Crawford, Department of Conservation
Know your numbers
On the Heart Foundation website “Know Your Numbers,” you can answer a few questions about your key numbers like your blood pressure and cholesterol and get a good assessment of what your heart health is.
K
ey numbers play a big part in many walks of life. You can actually put a number on the ood and drink you consume, which will give ou an excellent guide to help you and your amily have a healthy weight and avoid diabetes. The number system is called glycaemic load
(GL) but for simplicity’s sake we will call it glucose number. It gives guidelines numerically for the amount of glucose you need for energy from your different meals and snacks. The excess will be stored as fat if you exceed your quota. Long-term excesses lead to diabetes and obesity. Suggested numbers for any meal are 0 -10 low, 11-19 medium and 20 plus high, and about half this for snacks. In an average day, with three main meals and two snacks, the recommended total GL range before coming too high would be 44 - 76. Most importantly, young children, depending on their weight and age need much less. Let’s have a look at some of the daily traps we need to negotiate when we visit the local food court. Remember, it’s only carbohydrate that
makes the glucose. Food courts have a wide range of healthy food options with only a few, high glucose traps you need to avoid, such as: • The average hamburger bun, six inch sub and other white bread products like baps and foccaccia, with an average weight of about 100g and a glucose number of 30. • Rice portions are often 150g plus, which has a number of 45. • Muffins, scones, slices and cakes average about 120g and an average number of 30. • Each sushi roll is on average 17. What do all these fast-digesting foods have in common? They are generally soft and squishy and full of simple carbohydrate. If your eight-year-old consumes one of these items they are getting their whole day’s glucose all in one big hit. Add in a lightweight cereal for breakfast, a fizzy or juice drink or two and a big helping of chips with their tea, and their number could climb to a total of between 80 and 90. This is nearly three times their recommended daily total of about 35: a certain recipe for storing glucose excesses as fat. This bad news is easily remedied if people have some idea of where these problems lie. The food court is actually full of healthy, balanced options like quiches, kebabs, chicken salads, thin crust pizza, Subway, grilled chicken wraps, bacon and egg pie and so on. The trick is to recognise the big glucose producers and eat small portions of these in combination with more sustaining food. e.g. • Limit the number of sushi rolls and combine with a little pot of nuts or a milkshake • Eat half the Subway or hamburger bun • Share a muffin and eat with a piece of quiche Check out www.eatforkeeps.com for lots of different tips and ideas for maintaining your blood-sugar levels and having a healthy weight and life.
Colic, reflux, and inconsolable crying Have you lived through these heartwrenching behaviours? Are you living them now? If so, our children need your voice. It is estimated that 20 per cent of newborns suffer from the unnecessary behaviour of socalled colic alone, worldwide. With live births in New Zealand recorded at 62,600 over a 12-month period, that’s 12,520 newborns and parents experiencing this diabolical start to life each year. Yet the overall statistical information on this growing problem is minimal. You can help others by taking part in a survey that strives to: • Gain a wider perspective of what is really happening for New Zealand whanau • Collate information to be used to heighten awareness • Glean specific information about certain methods • Create a space for voice • Magnify the necessary points for change of some practices • Bring about further possibilities of research • Become a “nation of one” on the subject • Enhance conducive solutions that work for all newborns Please take time to evoke further understanding, and thus potential change for our young. Help collate solid national statistics while going into a fabulous prize draw. Visit www.naturalwinding.co.nz to take part in this survey. The survey begins August and runs until the
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