summer 2018/19 - issue forty four
healthy goals for the new year
10 life admin tasks to tackle in January
20 free ways to entertain the kids this school holidays
How to use a paper planner
9 easy eco switches
The lowdown on charitable donations and tax deductions
PLUS...
The unwanted gift dilemma Back to school tips and organisation Fab Summer reads And much more...
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Editor’s letter
Image by Hipster Mum, www.hipstermum.com
W
ow, can you believe that we are in 2019 already? This is a big year for us with my eldest starting big school. It feels like I blinked and the baby who I was just holding in my arms is now this grown up girl with opinions and ideas.
So with a big change coming up for my family this year I have decided to move Kid Magazine to a quarterly publication schedule. You will still receive the same amount of quality content to help you in your mum life but it will now be condensed into four issues per year.
Cover image: Elise Garner, www.lecoco.com.au
On the subject of change and plans for the year ahead, this issue is packed with content to help you nail your goals for 2019 and create your best year yet. But I also wanted to say that you don’t need to buy into the hype of bigger and better and living a perfect life. Life isn’t perfect. It is full of ups and downs, celebrations and disappointments. Some days all you can do is focus on putting one foot in front of the other and that is ok. The best wisdom I have taken on with the clarity that age brings is “you do you”. Keeping up with the Jones’ is so overrated. Enjoy life in the moment and work towards goals that will bring happiness and fulfilment into your life. I hope that 2019 is a magical year for you and your family and I can’t wait to share the ride with you.
Copyright © Kid Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher, Kid Magazine. The publisher accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions within. Opinions expressed by authors are not necessarily those of the publisher. The information within should not be considered as personal advice. Some links contained within may be affiliate links so we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. For all editorial and advertising enquiries please email sara@kidmagazine.com.au
Sara
Editor and Chief Kid sara@kidmagazine.com.au kidmagazine.com.au
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take a peek inside
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06 14 healthy goals for the new year
interiors queen
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08 summer reads
16 10 life admin tasks for january
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mouse house
34
your most organised christmas
18 20 free school holiday ideas
organisation goals
12 summer of wine
22 how to use a paper planner charitable donations and tax deductions
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Also... Editor’s Letter Mindful moments Eco switch The unwanted gift dilemma Understanding ADHD A day at the beach Road safety for kids Back to school School hair Primary school reflections
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shop where the cool kids shop
With the plethora of online businesses popping up all over the web, knowing where to shop can be the hardest decision you need to make. We’ve done the leg work for you and tracked down some of the hippest places to shop for you and the kids. Whether you are after funky party supplies, new maternity clothes, a fabulous photographer or toys for the kids, you will find it all plus more in the new Kid Magazine DIrectory. Want to find out how you can join the directory? Email sara@kidmagazine.com.au for the details on our affordable packages.
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Interiors queen A veteran of the kid’s interior space, Nicole Rosenberg of Little Liberty has cemented herself as a highly sought after leader in the industry. Her designs are unique, stretching the style parameters for parents who want something new, fresh and yet warmly familiar for their children’s bedrooms and nurseries. Nicole answered a few questions on life and the key interiors trends to be on the look out for in 2019.
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Tell us a little bit about yourself I am a really busy Mum of three beautiful children and one extra lovely husband and two very cute dogs who also happens to run an Interior Decorating business in her spare time!! I love every bit of my day although my family and kids are my number one priority, so I work between the hours of 9 and 3 where I get to hear all the goss and important news from the day out of the kids! Whilst I’m anchored in the kid’s space, my expertise is regularly being applied to other living spaces where I work with clients to select soft furnishings and furniture, materials fixtures, fittings and floorplan layouts. Why do you love designing kid’s rooms? How is this different from adult rooms? I love designing kid’s rooms because basically anything goes! No rules apply! Parents are often happy to experiment and have fun with colours and design more so than they would in other areas of the house. I like to get creative as possibly in kid’s spaces and produce rooms that no one has ever seen before - I like to dream as big as my clients will allow ...
For those who don’t have much design experience(or have difficulty trying to find their ‘style’) – what do you recommend? Pinterest is a powerful platform that helps you create a story/ and vision. It’s important to thoroughly plan and commit to every detail of the room so you’re confident that you will be able to achieve the end result. There is so much tech support available including the MagicPlan App which lets you place furniture into your room, whilst Instagram enables you to source and save inspiring images. What is the best thing about your job? My clients are the best part of the job. I’ve had amazing clients who can dream big with me and really trust the creative process. Building a business from the ground up is highly rewarding as it gives me the freedom to dream business with a dream team.
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What are the key trends to look out for 2019? Playfulness with colour is a must this upcoming year. We are seeing the beautiful blend of traditional pastels and neutrals with dashes of luxe colours such as reds, flamingo orange, apricots and rich purples which help to introduce theatrics to a room. Mid-century and art deco architecture and furniture command royal treatment and its own definitive sense of chic What are you expecting to be seen in children’s rooms/ nursery rooms in the next year? Colour and texture will be abundant in 2019. I’ve always thought colour and design was an extension of one’s personality and I encourage those clients that lack ‘colour- confidence’ to experiment with striking bold shades. Wallpaper has made a huge comeback and is an easy way to instantly change the mood of a room. What colours are making a big come back? Colour is back in 2019! Watch out for Pinks, Greens, Navy Blues, Apricots and Red which are the optimum way to add a personal flare to a room or bed. A bold colour or print is the best way to complement the perfect neutral wall colour or bedlinen. This can be as easy as adding a piece of wall art or a statement cushion. facebook.com/LittleLibertyRooms
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LIFE ADMIN TASKS TO TACKLE IN JANUARY Life admin is about as unsexy as it gets. It is all those little tasks that just niggle away at you, moved from one to-do-list to another. January is the perfect time to tackle your life admin to set you up for a successful year ahead. Sara Keli shares the 10 tasks that to focus on in January to start the year on the right foot.
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SCHEDULE YOUR HEALTH APPOINTMENTS Whether you are due for a Pap Smear this year or have been putting off that dentist appointment, take some time in January to plan out what you can around your health for the year. by consumer guarantees.
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CHECK SUBSCRIPTIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS Those cheeky little subscriptions and memberships can add up, especially for things like apps. Check your PayPal account for any recurring payments and cancel what you no longer need. You can also check payments and subscriptions in the App Store. While you are reviewing, note everything in a spreadsheet and add to it throughout the year so it makes your next review much simpler.
CATCH UP WITH YOUR FILING
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Bills can very easily start to pile up, especially towards the end of the year. In January, make sure to file anything that you haven’t already – both paper filing and digital filing. If you don’t need to keep a physical copy of something but no need a record, try scanning it and filing it digitally to save clutter and space.
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REVIEW YOUR INSURANCES
No matter what insurances you have, a regular check will ensure that you aren’t paying more than you need to and also that the insurance cover is still adequate and relevant. While you are there you could also review your mortgage, credit cards, other personal loans and your finances generally. Saving a little bit here and there can really add up.
CHECK YOUR SUPERANNUATION
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When was the last time you checked your superannuation balance? Do you know what it is off the top of your head? While retirement may seem a way off, being on top of your superannuation and how it is performing now could make all the difference to your retirement lifestyle.
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TACKLE YOUR INBOX
You are either one of those people who manages inbox zero every day or you are drowning in a sea of thousands of emails, barely able to come up for air. If you are the latter, start the year off on the right foot to hopefully keep things under control. Use a service like unroll.me to bulk unsubscribe from any newsletters you no longer want to receive.
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CREATE A $5 BILL JAR
If you were to put every $5 note that is in your wallet at the end of each day into a jar, how much money do you think you would have at the end of 12 months? It could really add up! If you can’t manage to place your $5 notes in a jar, perhaps you could do $2 coins or even just silver coins. Either way you are setting yourself up with a little spare cash!
BACK UP AND SORT YOUR PHOTOS
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If you haven’t backed up the photos on your phone recently then stop reading this immediately and do it NOW! If you were to lose your phone you would also lose so many memories along with it. Whether you use iCloud or a back up to hard drive or Dropbox, make sure you have a plan in place and follow it! If you have time in January you could also look at getting a photo book of the previous year created as a beautiful summary of the year.
10 RELAX
With everything else going on in your life, the top task on your life admin list should really be looking after yourself. Before you know it, February and then in the blink of an eye you will be back to January again. When you have the chance, take time to relax and practice self-care. Now could be a good time to also plan out some self-care time for the rest of the year to keep it as a priority.
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WRITE OR UPDATE YOUR WILL
While it’s a depressing topic to think about, having a will in place can really help your family to understand your wishes if the worst should happen. While you are reviewing/writing your will perhaps you might also like to check your organ donation status and make any changes to that.
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Sara Keli is the Editor of Kid Magazine. When she isn’t writing, designing or creating, you can find her enjoying the sunshine on her back deck with her two daughters or escaping into a good book.
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Organisation Goals Lorraine Murphy, author of Get Remarkably Organised, is the queen of organising your life and work. Here she shares her nuggets of gold for mastering organisation in 2019.
One of the biggest gifts you can give yourself to get more organised in 2019 is to start to think about your Future Self – so doing anything that will help you later on in the day, the next morning or the following week. For me, that means planning meals a week in advance, picking out my outfits the night before, writing my to do list for the next day at the end of my work day, having a difficult conversation today instead of procrastinating on it, and so on. Making time to plan is another key one for me. I sit down on a Sunday afternoon and go through my calendar for the week ahead, and plan in childcare, my exercise, my business time and dates with my husband or friends. My husband sits with me while we do this, and it means that we’re both aligned as we head into a fresh week, and the scope for assumptions is limited. I also colour code my calendar (I use Google Calendar) so I can see at a glance how my week is looking.
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mindful moments
Make this year your most mindful yet as you focus on being in the moment and enjoying life with a little help and reminder from these awesome products along the way.
1 The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod, $22.99, bookdepository.com 2 Mindful Me Essential Oil Blend, $29.95, mymindfulyear.com.au 3 Desktop Tracing Labyrinth, $47, etsy.com/au 4 Mindfulness Minutes Daily Practice Printable Poster, $4.35, etsy.com/au 5 Classic Colouring: Jane Austen, $20.72, bookdepository.com 6 Pukka Tea – Relax, $7.95, www.nourishedlife.com.au 7 Be Still Plywood Poster, $30, etsy.com/au 8 The Mother Pack Affirmation Cards, $24.95, etsy.com/au 9 Mindfulness Journal: Inspiration, $34.95, www.kikki-k.com/au
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How to use a paper planner kidmagazine.com.au 12
Image: DepositPhotos.com/Igishevamaria
Do you want to start next year feeling more organised, more productive and a whole lot calmer? Mim Jenkinson found her life changed in so many ways when she started using a paper planner and now she teaches others how to integrate this old school planning method into their lives. I’ve always loved planning, particularly list-making. Same? Creating a To Do list of everything I needed to get done has kept me organised at school, college and work throughout my whole life. I love the satisfaction of checking everything off as I complete my tasks and I’m motivated to do more to recreate that feeling time and time over. When I was expecting my first baby, I used a planner to journal my symptoms, plan my appointments and make lists of all of the things we needed to do and buy before the baby arrived.
It can be a bit overwhelming to know how to start planning and which one to choose. I can help you! And I want to share my passion for planning with you and how it’s changed my life in so many positive ways. I’ve designed a course with ten short modules on how to use a planner and I know you’ll find them super informative and helpful too.
I also use my planner to stay focused, organised and hitting goals at work.
In the full course, you will learn: • Why I use a paper planner to stay organised • Which one is right for you • When and how to use your planner for ultimate success • All of the different ways you can use your planner to organise your life • How to develop your own planning ‘style’ • Planner must haves and accessories • How to organise (and even decorate!) your planner
My planner keeps almost every aspect of my life in check and as the saying goes, “if it isn’t written down, it isn’t happening”.
I’m confident that you’ll find a passion for planning too – and you’ll also start to feel a lot less overwhelmed and a lot more organised!
I’m not sure whether it’s having kids, being a lot busier or just getting older, but I just can’t retain information the same way as when I was younger. A paper planner is now an essential part of my life.
Are you ready to join me in finding your planning style? You can get the first class in the course for FREE! Sign up here and get started immediately.
I continued planning to organise my new family – I’d really misjudged the leap from only having to keep myself organised to keeping the whole family on track!
Happy Planning! Taking 15 minutes out of my week to plan for the week ahead, decorating my planner, ticking off lists – well, it’s the ultimate therapy for me too. In fact, I would go as far as to say that using my planner is part of my ‘me time’ and self-care for the week.
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It’s doubly beneficial because I love taking the time to plan and using my planner creates even more time for me to do other things! But which planner IS the right one for you? Planning has become quite trendy recently – with more and more people choosing paper planners over digital ones. And there is so much choice out there now when it comes to choosing the right planner for you.
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Mim Jenkinson is a mother of two who believes that being a good enough mum doesn’t mean you have to be perfect. She shares simple solutions to help busy mums get stuff done and have more time to spend with their families, growing their businesses and on themselves.
instagram.com/lovefrommim
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summer reads
A selection of fiction to escape into and non-fiction for a thought-provoking holiday read.
1 Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman, bookdepository.com 2 The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton, bookdepository.com 3 Fed Up by Gemma Hartley, bookdepository.com 4 Boys Will be Boys by Clementine Ford, bookdepository.com 5 The Cactus by Sarah Haywood, bookdepository.com 6 A Spark of Light by Jodi Picoult, bookdepository.com 7 Becoming by Michelle Obama, bookdepository.com 8 The Necessary Marriage by Elisa Lodato, bookdepository.com 9 Whiskey in a Teacup by Reese Witherspoon, bookdepository.com kidmagazine.com.au 14
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MUM MERCH Been there, done that, got the t-shirt to prove it!
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6 things you can do in January to ease the pressure at Christmas It may be nearly a year away, but with a little bit of preparation now you can save future you time and money when Christmas does roll around. Sara Keli reveals 6 January tasks that will result in a smoother, simpler Christmas.
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Buy wrapping paper
Start saving now
After Christmas you can always pick up some great bargains on Christmas wrapping paper. If you have the space to store it, stock up now and that is one less thing you need to do next Christmas.
Even though it happens at the same time every year, Christmas has a way of sneaking up on you. If you have reviewed your list and know how much you spent last Christmas, you will have a rough idea of how much you will need to spend this year. If you divide that amount by the number of weeks remaining and start saving that amount each week, you will be set come Christmas.
Review your gift list Your gift list might change slightly each year but it is likely the core group of people you buy for each year doesn’t change. Keep a list of who you buy for each year and how much you spend and it will be a good indication of your budget for next Christmas and help you buy throughout the year if you spot any sales.
Declutter the Christmas decorations As you pack away your decorations, declutter any that are broken or you no longer want. When putting any Christmas lights away make sure they are tangle free and it will make decorating next Christmas a much simpler task!
Write your own Christmas wish list Do you ever have that problem where throughout the year you can think of so many things you want for Christmas and then when someone asks you what they can buy you go completely blank? Start writing a list now. As you see things you want, add it to the list. You could also do the same for the kids or if any friends/family members mention things they like, keep a record of it to make your gift buying much easier.
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Prepare for any big changes Often at Christmas you have an idea to perhaps switch to Kris Kringle for gifts rather than buying for everyone in the family or even travelling away for Christmas. Now is the time to have those conversations otherwise it may be too late if people have already bought gifts or made plans and you will have to wait another year.
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Sara Keli is the Editor of Kid Magazine. When she isn’t writing, designing or creating, you can find her enjoying the sunshine on her back deck with her two daughters or escaping into a good book.
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Summer of Wine Summer has arrived. Whether you need wine for a summer feast or relaxing by the pool on those long balmy days, Suzan Temizer from Three Bids Do Wine has curated the quintessential list of summer wines for easy drinking, with a mix of boutique cellar doors and local bottle shop finds.
Rosé Step aside Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio, Rosé is the queen of summer bringing a refreshing versatility in style from sweet to dry pairing beautifully with summer cuisine like seafood. Opening up a Rosé is simply the best way to crush the summer heat. We embrace the traditional pale and racier Provençal style growing in popularity in Australia.
James and Co Wines 2017 Beechworth Sangiovese Rosé (VIC) $24 A pure, elegant yet vibrant Rosé with hints of strawberries kidmagazine.com.au 18
and cream is still refreshing, and too easy to drink with or without food. It’s effortless and our absolute summer favourite at Three Birds HQ. We recommend grabbing a case of six!
Bird in Hand Adelaide Hills Pinot Rosé (SA) 2018 $18 Pinot is the variety behind many of great Rosé wine. Like the Beechworth, Adelaide Hills has the perfect cool climate to produce the Pinot Rosé. Fresh and lively with lifted strawberry aromas it’s not too sweet with layered savoury finish. This seems to be a favourite with Rosé drinkers and now we know why.
Red
La Planchelière Cabernet d‘Anjou Rosé (France) $13 This crowd pleaser is typical of a Provençal Rosé with a little sweetness and crisp finish. Easy on the palate and the pocket, making it that great all-rounder when you need to entertain and delight. Need a Rosé with bubbles? We got you covered. The sparkling version is available.
White 1813 Fiano (Hunter Valley) $30 Unlike anything else, the Fiano is imbued with characteristics of hazelnuts, honey and ripe melon with a refreshingly citrus finish. It’s a unique style of white enjoyed by Italians and once you try it, it will be as though you’ve thrown on a head scarf, jumped on a scooter and taken a scenic ride of the Amalfi. This is the Italian seaside in a bottle. Delizioso!
Scarborough Obsessive Chardonnay (Hunter Valley) $40 We love all things chardonnay by this estate, especially the Yellow Label, which is perfect for summer drinking, but for an extra special lunch gathering with servings of salmon, tuna and pork we highly recommend the Obsessive Chardonnay. Deep floral bouquet, buttery nougat with peach, touches of pineapple and caramel. You will have joyful sighs at the table and guests pining for more.
Tamburlaine Organic Wines Reserve Orange Fume Blanc 2017 (Hunter Valley) $33 Not quite a Chardonnay, not quite a Fiano, the Fume Blanc is a bright, elegant sauvignon blanc with more lemon curd than lemon, more tropical fruits than citrus simply with that gorgeous French oak that lingers. It’s like a worldlier, well-travelled, seasoned Sauvignon Blanc that has come home to share stories of abroad. facebook.com/threebirdsdowine
Broke Estate Barbera 2017 (Hunter Valley) $26 If your prefer reds all year round, there is still a way to enjoy during the warmer months. We simply adore the voluptuous and fervid Barbera that pairs with just about everything. Velvety and fruit driven, pop this wine in the fridge and served chilled together with ice cream for a transformative journey from first breath to the last drop. Not a drop less than spectacular!
Sparkling Cave de Lugny Cremant Blanc de Blancs NV 750mL (France) $16 The perfect hack for French champagne. Cremant is the traditional method used outside of the Champagne region but true to the style. Soft, creamy and effervescent, surprisingly complex for its price tag. Add a nip of Chambord liqueur for a little extra drama.
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Australia’s women of wine.. We love all things wine. We are passionate about curating great wine and experiences, and sourcing boutique wines from all over Australia to share as gifts hampers for wine lovers. We work intimately with wineries to expand their business, and bring cellar door events, wine tours, luxury bridal showers, charity wine events, and our wine accessories like our fabulous folding wine tables.
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eco switch
If you are planning for 2019 to be your most eco-friendly yet, make a small change by switching to these products for a big impact on the environment.
1 Life Basics Eco Friendly Beeswax Food Wraps - Kitchen Pack, $32.95, www.nourishedlife.com.au 2 Bamboo & Sisal Fibre Dish Brush + Removable Head x1, $16, yeseco.life 3 Onya Reusable Mesh Fruit & Veg Produce Bags - Set of 8, $19.95, www.biome.com.au 4 Frank Green Original Smart Cup, $32.95. www.nourishedlife.com.au 5 The Swag Tea Set, $14.95, www.nourishedlife.com.au 6 Yourstraw Bamboo Straw 8pack, $15.95, www.biome.com.au 7 Ecostore Dish Liquid Lemon 1L, $11.70, www.sproutmarket.com.au 8 Sensual Hi-Waist Bikini, $27, www.modibodi.com 9 Mum Shopping List Tote Bag, $29.95, mumcollab.com.au kidmagazine.com.au 20
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Charitable donations and tax deductions Giving back and helping others can be a great way to bring meaning to your year. If you choose to support a charity by donating money, it’s worthwhile understanding how the tax office treats your charitable donation. Jo and Carl Violeta explain.
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We spoke with our friend Sam Keats the Director of Keats Accounting to get the facts on how tax deductions for charitable donations work.
To claim the deduction, you’ll need a receipt from the charitable organisation. You can then claim the deduction on your tax return.
Of course, giving back and helping others isn’t all about what you can get from the tax office, but it makes sense to claim a deduction if you’re entitled to it.
The tax deduction will happen according to the name that is written on the receipt. ‘If you’re partnered, it’s always a good idea to make your donations in the name of the higher income earner, rather than having both names on the receipt. That just means that you’re getting the most back for your donation,’ recommends Sam.
“Of course, giving back and helping others isn’t all about what you can get from the tax office, but it makes sense to claim a deduction if you’re entitled to it.” Generally, you have to give cash, rather than buying a product for the donation to be tax deductible. For example, you can’t claim a tax deduction for buying raffle tickets, even if the raffle is in support of a charity. This is because in most cases, you can’t claim a deduction for a gift or donation if you received something in return.
If you’re employed, you may be able to make your donation go further. Sam suggests checking whether your employer has any initiatives in place around corporate giving. ‘Some employers will allow you to set up regular deductions from your pay as a salary donation. Some employers also offer a matching program. For example, anytime my husband makes a charitable donation his employer actually double that donation amount.’ Supporting charities is a meaningful way to bring more joy to yourself and others. Particularly during the time of year when many families are experiencing financial pressure. Charitable donations also make a great gift for those people who are hard to buy for. A donation in their name is a beautiful gift, rather than buying them something they don’t particularly need, it’s making a difference.
END *The information in this article is general only. It’s important to speak to your Accountant for advice specific to your circumstances.
‘There are some exceptions to that rule, for example, Daffodil Day Badges and those sorts of things, but generally monetary donations are deductible, not product purchases,’ explains Sam, ‘Also businesses may be able to claim a deduction for donating stock, your Accountant can guide you in this.’ For a donation to be tax deductible it needs to be an amount of over two dollars. The charity needs to be registered on the deductible gift recipient register. If you look up the organisation you’d like to donate to on the Australian Business Register website, it will tell you whether or not they’re on the deductible gift recipient register. There are some ways around this, if you run a business you might have more options, so have a chat to your Accountant. facebook.com/violetafinance
Jo and Carl Violeta are self-confessed numbers nerds, parents of an energetic toddler and a super switchedon teenager, and co-founders of the award-winning business, Violeta Finance. They are a husband and END wife team who are passionate about empowering their community with financial education, love the odd glass of wine, and get a kick out of helping families achieve their homeownership and financial dreams.
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Healthy Goals For the New Year If improving your health and fitness is on the agenda for the year ahead, Sam Wood shares his tips for sustainable and achievable goal setting. If you are one of these people that has found that New Years Resolution or Goal Setting hasn’t worked terribly well in the past, I’m going to throw you a curve ball. The reason so many resolutions don’t work is we are too focused on unrealistic results and the time frame is simply too long. So, if you’re still with me and nodding along, this is what I want you to do in 2019. Set yourself a 28 day process based goal. When you focus on what you do rather than the results that you get, I promise the results will come. A simple but very effective example would be: Print out a blank calendar for the month and cross out each day that you move your body for at least 15 minutes and ensure that you have at least 20 crosses in the first 28 days of January. 28 days really is the magic number. It’s short enough to stay focused and keep our eye on the prize but long enough to see results. Once you reach the end of your first 28 day block, reward yourself, set a new 28 day goal and go again. You’ll be off to a different but very successful start in 2019.
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mouse house
Everyone’s favourite mouse recently celebrated a big birthday and Mickey fans are spoilt for choice with all the goodies. Here are ur top picks!
1 Women’s Celebrate Mickey Short Sleeve Graphic T-Shirt, $19.90, www.uniqlo.com/au 2 Play&Go Disney Mickey Cool Toy Storage Bag, $64.95, limetreekids.com.au 3 S&P Disney Takeaway Coffee Cup – Graffiti, $19.95, www.davidjones.com 4 Mickey Mouse Earrings in Sterling Silver, $44.50, catch.com.au 5 Mickey Mouse Micro Backpack, $29.99, cottonon.com/AU/typo/ 6 Rock Your Baby Mickey Circus Dress, $54.95, theiconic.com.au 7 Bonds Disney Stretchies Chesty Tank, $11.95, theiconic.com.au 8 Disney Original Mickey Watch, $79, www.davidjones.com 9 2019 Flip Desk Calendar, $9.99, cottonon.com/AU/typo/ kidmagazine.com.au 26
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THE UNWANTED GIFT DILEMMA According to recent research conducted by ING Dreamstarter, $8.2 billion is spent on gifts during the festive season but 75% of Aussies admit they don’t use the gifts they receive for Christmas. If you are one of the 75%, Sara Keli shares four ways you can keep those gifts out of landfill and maybe even make some money along the way.
REGIFT
If you receive a double up gift or a present that is lovely but just not for you, there is no reason why you can’t regift it on to someone who will love it. There are a couple of rules of regifting that you need to follow. 1. Never regift to the person who gave you the gift 2. Always check inside boxes/books etc. for cards or personal notes. It is very awkward when you regift and include the original card to the new recipient 3. For anything perishable always check the expiry dates before you decide to regift
ONSELL
Whether you decide to sell the gifts you receive or simply make room for them by selling some of your old things, this is a great way to declutter and make some money at the same time. When you have lots of things to sell, getting a stall at a market is the perfect way to quickly do it rather than having to list the items individually online. For kids clothes, toys and books, My Kids Market NSW is the place to start if you are located in Sydney/Newcastle/Central Coast. A stall costs $65 and you will have a steady stream of interested shoppers ready to buy your good quality used and new kids clothing and toys.
way to remove the clutter from your own home and to help someone who will truly appreciate the gift. Always check that a charity is able to accept your donation before sending it to them (most will have a list on their website of acceptable donations). If you aren’t sure where to look, start with Mummies Paying It Forward in Sydney or St Kilda Mums in Melbourne.
STORE
If your problem is a lack of space but you want to keep the gifts you received, look into storage options. For the kids, especially younger ones, if they have lots of gifts, keep a selection of them at the top of the wardrobe and bring one out every month or so. They probably won’t realise that it was a Christmas gift and it will give them new things to play with throughout the year – what kid isn’t going to be happy with that. A toy rotation system can also be helpful in this situation. This involves packing up the toys and rotating them out every 4-6 weeks. It keeps the kids engaged in what they are playing with, without overwhelming them for choice, and keeps them engaged with new things to play with on a regular basis.
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If you only have a few things to sell, Facebook Marketplace, EBay and Gumtree are the best options. Be sure to factor in accurate shipping costs if you are offering shipping and also be prepared to negotiate the price.
DONATE
There are so many families who simply can’t afford to buy gifts at Christmas time, so if you have surplus and have the means to do so, donating unwanted gifts is a good
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Sara Keli is the Editor of Kid Magazine. When she isn’t writing, designing or creating, you can find her enjoying the sunshine on her back deck with her two daughters or escaping into a good book.
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Understanding ADHD Image: DepositPhotos.com/Professor25
When you first find out your child has ADHD it’s terrifying. You worry about what the future will hold for them and what you can do to help them. You worry about whether you will be able to cope or if you could be doing something that makes it worse. And you realise just how little you fully understand ADHD. Rebecca Perkins reveals the facts about ADHD and how you can support your child.
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I have ADHD and I’d worked in the field for years by the time I realised my son also had ADHD and yet I still worried that I didn’t have enough understanding to be able to offer the best possible support and outcomes for my child. But what I know now and didn’t know then is that it doesn’t have to be as bad as we sometimes think. There are thousands, in fact millions of people around the world with ADHD who are happy and successful. And with the right strategies and support put in place all children with ADHD can have great and happy futures. ADHD is one of the most common neurological based disorders in the world and affects an estimated 1 in 10 people worldwide, and yet it is also hugely misunderstood and often over simplified. Many people think ADHD is simply a problem with hyperactivity and poor attention. And there are still far too many people who believe that ADHD isn’t real. Well, ADHD is very real. It’s not just a child behaving badly, nor is it a social disorder caused by bad parenting, it’s not caused by the friends a child spends their time with or the school they go to. ADHD is very much a real disorder that has a lot more to it than just hyperactivity and a short attention span. ADHD is not a linear disorder that goes from mild to severe. ADHD is a spectrum, more like Autism. So every child will experience their symptoms very differently and some children won’t experience certain symptoms at all. You could have four children all with ADHD and yet each one could struggle with completely different things. One child could struggle with hyperactivity and have problems with impulse control. But the next child might not struggle with hyperactivity at all, this child could have a real problem with disorganisation, they could be very disorganised in their daily life or in their school work. The next child may have more of a problem with anger and emotional regulation. Then, the next one could be more like me and have a million thoughts all competing for attention at once. And let me tell you, that can make it very hard to focus on one particular thing. Officially there are three types of ADHD: Inattentive, Hyperactive/Impulsive and combined (a combination of the two). But ADHD is much more than those three titles might suggest. One of the most misunderstood symptoms of ADHD, and the reason for many children going undiagnosed is hyperfocus. ADHD is an interest-based disorder, so if a child is really interested or captivated by something, not only can they pay attention, they can become so engrossed in it
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that it can be almost impossible to distract them from it. Children can also have real difficulty switching between tasks, so it’s really important, especially at school to allow children a slow and gradual transition between finishing one task and beginning the next. Sadly, children with ADHD can also have huge challenges with emotional regulation, anxiety and low self-esteem. And they can often spend vast amounts of time feeling guilty for behaviours that they have little control over. Offering children the right help and support can make a huge difference in their life. On top of this, they also often have a fear of being judged and need to please everyone around them. Unfortunately, this can, and often does, lead to massive problems when they get something wrong. This is why children with ADHD sometimes lash out if they are disciplined or if they fail or even feel like they’ve failed at something. There’s one other thing about children with ADHD that many people often don’t realise. Children with ADHD are the kindest, most caring and loving children you could wish to meet. If you know a child with ADHD then you’ll know just how beautifully loving they can be. If you’re hurt or upset, they will be the first to ask you what’s wrong. If you need a hug they will be there with open arms. And if you need help, they will be there for you. So next time you come across a child with ADHD and they’re lashing out, not paying attention or won’t settle down, offer them the support they need. Because one day that child may be the first to give you the love and care you need. Understanding ADHD the DVD is now available online.
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As well as being the CEO and Founder of My Special Child, Rebecca Perkins is also a Writer, Presenter and Trainer on special needs, learning difficulties and behaviour. Most importantly Rebecca is Mum to two boys, one of which has ADHD and is Intellectually Disabled. Rebecca herself also has ADHD and Dyslexia.
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INTRODUCING 2 NEW EBOOKS FROM ORGANISING STUDENTS
WHAT STUDENTS NEED TO KNOW
Taking the leap to Secondary School
The Leap to Secondary School
HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILD
By Amanda Lecaude
By Amanda Lecaude
www.organisingstudents.com.au
www.organisingstudents.com.au
FOR STUDENTS
FOR PARENTS
Written for students and parents, these comprehensive eBooks provide a greater understanding of what to expect in taking the leap to secondary school. Full of tips and strategies to increase the chances of a smooth and successful transition including: • the key differences between primary and secondary school; • reassurance about thoughts & feelings - they are not alone; • other key tips including tips from their peers;
• an understanding of the fundamental skills students need to develop to become more independent and responsible; and • guiding parents on how to support their child.
Available to purchase from www.organisingstudents.com.au
“Wow. This is FANTASTIC! This is a comprehensive guide that answers all the concerns Year 6 students usually have. It will be the saving grace for many families” EDUCATOR AND RETIRED PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
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a day at the beach
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Whether you are hitting the beach or simply turning on the sprinkler in the backyard, here are the essentials for a day of water-filled fun.
1 Watermelon Beach Bats, $34.95, www.sunnylife.com.au 2 Hape Travel Sand Mould Set, $5.95, www.limetreekids.com.au 3 Frankie Ray - Pixie Toddler Sunglasses, $29.95, www.thestorknest.com.au 4 Pirate Octo Beach Wrap, $39, www.potterybarnkids.com.au 5 Wahu Mega Beach Pack, $49.99, www.mrtoys.com.au 6 Tiger Rashie, $50NZD, bandofboys.co.nz 7 Little Innoscents Natural Sun Lotion SPF30, $19.95, www.nourishedlife.com.au 8 Malibu Beach Umbrella, $89.95, www.sunnylife.com.au kidmagazine.com.au 31
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Did you know that 196 children have been killed in road accidents since 2014? Or that traffic injury is the biggest killer of children under 15y? Or that if a pedestrian is hit at 60kph there is an 85% chance of death? These are sobering statistics for a parent to read at anytime of the year, but as RenĂŠe Meier explains, around the holiday season when we need to be particularly mindful about road safety and children.
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School is out and there are plenty of kids about! It is no coincidence that the time of year when families are holidaying, celebrating and generally out and about spending time together is the most dangerous. It is also the time of year when we are most distracted. There are people to visit, sights to see and experiences to have. Parents everywhere are herding excited children to and from parks, beaches, shops and homes, often in unfamiliar environments. With so much going on, it can be so easy to lose sight of a small child in the blink of an eye. The family of 4.5 yr old Tom McLaughlin know this harsh reality firsthand. Their young son, who had been taught the importance of road safety, tragically stepped out onto the road in front of a 4wd whilst on a beach holiday with their family. Horrifyingly, Tom died of his injuries at the scene of the accident. The car that struck him was only travelling at 50 kpm. To raise awareness that this tragic accident can happen to anyone, Tom’s parents created the Little Dinosaur Foundation . Each year they campaign to raise the profile of child pedestrian safety.
m A higher likelihood of being distracted and being unaware of imminent danger. These factors raise the risk of an accident occurring quite significantly. Which is why an adult should always accompany and actively supervise children until 8 when they’re anywhere near a road. Other tips to ensure children’s safety whilst near roadways include: m Teach your child to always hold hands with an adult when crossing the road. m Ensure they hold onto your pram, stroller, bag, trolley or a piece of your clothing if your hands are full. m Walk between your child and the edge of the road. m Teach them to minimise distractions near roads, such as putting away devices and taking headphones off so all senses can focus on their surroundings. m Teach them to stop before each driveway to ensure no cars are entering or exiting. m Talk about what different road signs mean, identify safe places to cross together and reinforce the STOP, LOOK, LISTEN, THINK procedure.
Their message is simple: It’s Holiday Time: Slow Down Kids Around
Most importantly, parents need to model good road safety and awareness around children. As with anything, they will learn more from what you do than what you say!
But their campaign is not just directed at drivers. The Little Dinosaur Foundation want parents, children and other road travellers to understand how vulnerable little people are on and around roadways.
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This is because children have physical, perceptual and cognitive limitations around roads. It isn’t until the age of 8 that children start to recognise differing roadways and become more confident in coping with changes in the traffic environment. In fact, until the age of 10, children have: m A limited ability to understand each element of the complex (and constantly changing) road environment m Difficulty determining the origin of sound when a car is approaching m A longer reaction time to sudden changes in the traffic environment or even to a verbal signal such as “Stop!”
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Renée Meier is a freelance writer, aspiring novelist and mother to three rambunctious children. When she’s not being distracted by social media or drinking copious amounts of coffee, Renée can be found wandering along one of her beautiful local beaches with her two dogs. Her lifelong dream is to earn enough money to afford a housekeeper.
www.littlebluedinosaur.org
20 FREE ways to entertain the kids this school holidays The school holidays are here and budgets are tight but that doesn’t mean you are in for a holiday soundtrack of “I’m bored!”. Sara Keli has come up with 20 activities you can do with the kids these school holidays that are absolutely free!
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Check your local council Councils often run free activities for kids over the school holidays so check your local council to see what they are offering.
Decorate cupcakes or cookies Lay out the icing and decorations to let them go nuts. They can also help you bake, but depending on their age, may not have the patience to wait until they have cooked and cooled before they can start decorating them!
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Spend the day at the beach Pack some lunch, snacks and water and head to the beach. Pick a beach with a park nearby and your day will be sorted. Don’t forget the hats, sunscreen and a change of clothes for the trip home.
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Pack a picnic lunch Head to the park with your picnic basket and packed lunch. The kids can run around while you enjoy the sunshine!
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Make pizza Making pizza is actually perfect for kids. Once the dough is made (get them to help you with the kneading!) cut off a little bit for them to play with- it’s just like play dough! They also love choosing the toppings for the pizza and are more likely to eat it if they’ve made it themselves.
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Camp out in the backyard If you don’t fancy the idea of heading to a campsite but want to give the kids the experience of camping, try it out in your own backyard. Borrow gear from a friend and enjoy a night under the stars with the kids.
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Have a water fight Turn on the sprinklers, fill the water balloons and prime the water pistols – it’s game on!
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Fly a kite The satisfaction of flying a kite should not be underestimated. If you don’t have a kite you can try making your own first.
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Wear in the new school shoes
Have a family dinner party
Not the most exciting school holiday activity but really important to do. You could even make a game of it by having a daily school shoe running race.
Science experiments It’s amazing what a little bicarb soda and vinegar reaction can do to pique the interest of little minds.
Teach them a handicraft The longer school holidays are the perfect time to pass on a craft skill to your kids. Whether it is sewing, knitting, French knitting, crochet, scrapbooking or something else altogether, they will love spending the time with you.
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Paint a canvas Pick up a big canvas from the craft store and get painting. You could do it all in one day or add a little each day. It will also serve as a beautiful memory of the holidays.
Set up a home bowling alley All you need is a few empty water bottles and a ball plus a hallway and you have your own bowling alley for hours of fun.
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Write a book It could be a book about your school holiday adventures together or something completely fictional. Get them to write and illustrate the book and you could even get a copy printed up as a photo book at the end!
Get dressed up as though you are going out for dinner, turn off the TV, perhaps play some soft music and even light some candles to create a restaurant atmosphere at home. This is not only a cheaper alternative to eating out but it feels special and can be a good intro to restaurant dining for your kids.
Play board games The list wouldn’t be complete without a classic family board games night. Let your competitive streaks shine and battle it out on the game board.
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Run a car wash Washing cars can actually be really fun, especially when you are a kid. Have your family members or neighbours bring their cars around and get the kids to wash them and they can even earn a little bonus pocket money.
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Create your family time wish list for the year A really beautiful thing you can all do as a family is to sit down once a year and decide what you want to do as a family that year. Your list could include dream holiday destinations or local attractions you want to visit together. You might not get to all of them but it gives you some structure for the year with activities that you all want to do. For 21 more school holiday activity ideas visit kidmagazine.com.au/easy-school-holiday-activities
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Do a puzzle Puzzles are so therapeutic. Setting yourself a challenge to complete the whole puzzle in the school holidays will also keep you on track and give the kids a real sense of achievement at the end.
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Make your own obstacle course To create your own Ninja Warrior style obstacle course in the backyard (or even the living room) you can simply use furniture and items from around the house. Mountains of pillows or couch cushions, chairs, stools, stepladders, you are limited only by your imagination. Just remember to be safe! facebook.com/kidmagazine
Sara Keli is the Editor of Kid Magazine. When she isn’t writing, designing or creating, you can find her enjoying the sunshine on her back deck with her two daughters or escaping into a good book.
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Back to School Don’t leave your school prep until the day before school starts. Take time in January to get the basics right and enjoy a smoother back to school that is easier on the whole family. Sara Keli shares the things you should be doing now to prepare for the start or Term 1.
Label everything
Make any uniform alterations
If you want to keep it, label it. Lunch boxes, hats, jackets, shoes, socks, basically anything that goes to school with your kid should have their name on it. There are no guarantees that if it is lost it will make it’s way back to you but you certainly increase your chances! Stuck on You is the place to go for labels and loads of other personalised products to make life a bit easier for back to school.
Start lunch box prep It’s never too early to start baking up a storm for your lunch box snacks. Kidgredients is your go-to if you need inspiration and recipes for freezer-friendly lunch box additions. If you do a big batch cook up now that will save you time during the term.
You may need to buy new uniforms which will require hemming etc. or you may just need to try on old uniforms to confirm they still fit and are the right length. Don’t leave it until the last minute, especially if you can’t sew yourself and need to outsource the task.
Start getting back into your routine Those really long summer holidays are so enjoyable, but returning to school is like a smack in the face. Gradually ease back into the school routine by slowly bringing bedtime back to where it should be. If you do it gradually it will be easier for the kids to stomach and they may not even really notice.
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Wear in the school shoes If you have purchased new school shoes get the kids to start wearing them around the house so they will be more comfortable when school begins. If you haven’t already purchased school shoes, get on to that quick smart as you risk stores running out of sizes and styles if you leave it too late. If your kids still fit into their shoes at the end of last term, just do a quick check to make sure that is still the case.
Sara Keli is the Editor of Kid Magazine. When she isn’t writing, designing or creating, you can find her enjoying the sunshine on her back deck with her two daughters or escaping into a good book. This page contains affiliate links
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school hair
Back to school means the end of beach waves and messy buns. Get their hair back to school ready with these fab finds.
1 LADY JAYNE Styleguards Kink-Free Spirals in Black 8 Pack, $7.99, www.priceline.com.au 2 The Wet Brush – Watercolour Pink, $19.95, www.adorebeauty.com.au 3 Pineapple Heads Hair Wax, $15.95, www.nourishedlife.com.au 4 Eco Kid Daily Tonic Leave-In Conditioner, $24.95, www.nourishedlife.com.au 5 Oversized black silk scrunchie, $29, www.shhhsilk.com.au 6 Tangle Teezer Original Blueberry Pop, $21.99, www.priceline.com.au 7 Ecostore Kids Conditioning Detangler - Fruity Zing, $8.95, www.nourishedlife.com.au 8 Bass Bamboo Medium Wide Tooth Comb, $12.95, www.biome.com.au 9 Eco Kid Lice Bomb, $26.95, www.nourishedlife.com.au kidmagazine.com.au 37
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Reflections Of A Seasoned Primary School Parent With one child heading off to high school in the new year, one going into grade five and one just about to start prep, Renée Meier has a fair bit of primary school experience under her belt. She shares her reflections of seven years of parenting a primary school student.
As I sat at our kindy “graduation” I watched the tears and nervous angst of those parents whose first born was about to embark on their primary school journey. I realised it isn’t just a big move for those children, but also their parents who are entering new territory. I’ve been reflecting on my primary school years thus far and what I have learnt in those seven years. Here is what I would tell those nervous new primary school parents:
Get everyone into a routine I confess to being a bit hit and miss with this over the years but when I have a good morning and afternoon routine in place everything runs more smoothly. Kids are really tired when they start school so a routine keeps everything ticking over and helps to avoid meltdowns (for both kids and parents!)
Have a school paperwork system Before you become a school parent you really have no idea how much paper gets sent home. Most schools have reminder systems in place but having a system of checking bags and organising school notes will help your sanity immensely.
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Follow the school’s social media accounts Join the school Facebook page and download whatever app or reminder system they have in place for the aforementioned reasons. Parents from your particular year level may even have a Facebook group which can also be a great source of general information.
Get the full story before you react Your kids will come home with tales of pure horror. They are dramatic like that. A teacher may have said something in class or a peer may have hurt them. Before you march up to the school calling for blood, try to get more details from a number of reliable sources. If there is a real issue, try to address it calmly with the relevant teacher before taking things further. Things can happen but open communication and a receptive attitude is the best way to work with the school to ensure the issue is dealt with.Always keep in mind the school wants the best for your child too.
Not every teacher you get will be wonderful
kids at events I can’t attend and are generally there for me through life’s ups and downs. Bonus - our kids are great friends so it makes playdates enjoyable for the grown ups too!
On the whole primary school teachers are amazing but they are still only human. They have their own personalities and teaching styles. Sometimes your child will get a teacher that they don’t gel with. My children and I have loved particular teachers that other families have not liked. This is all part of building your child’s resilience and teaching them about dealing with different people. Afterall we can’t always choose who we work with. However, if there are major personality clashes or you think your child is being disadvantaged by being in a particular class then talk to the school administration about a possible change.
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The friends that I made in those early years have become the most invaluable support network. Make friends with other parents
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This is something I hadn’t really considered when I became a new school mum. I was more worried about my child’s social life than mine. However, the friends that I made in those early years have become the most invaluable support network. They help out with the school run, remind me of important dates, cheer on my
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Don’t sweat the small stuff Notes will get lost, kids will go to school in yesterday’s uniform because you didn’t get time to wash and your best intentions for 100% healthy lunchbox may fall by the wayside sometimes. Chill out. We are all just trying our best. Starting school is just as big a milestone for parents as it is for kids. Primary school is a whole new world - an ecosystem of its own which you will become immersed in as your child progresses through the years. To get the most out of your child’s primary school years, get involved in as much as your schedule allows. Help out on excursions, attend sports days and assemblies occasionally. Your kids will appreciate it and so will the wider school community. I’m surprised to confess I actually enjoy being a primary school parent. If your child is starting school in the new year, I hope you do too.
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Renée Meier is a freelance writer, aspiring novelist and mother to three rambunctious children. When she’s not being distracted by social media or drinking copious amounts of coffee, Renée can be found wandering along one of her beautiful local beaches with her two dogs. Her lifelong dream is to earn enough money to afford a housekeeper.
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