Kids on the Coast Magazine - Gold Coast - Issue 81. July/August 2019

ISSUE 81 July/August 2019 GOLD COAST

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FREE TO TAKE HOME

LIVING CLEAN & GREEN

INTERVIEW: BILLY SL ATER ON HIS FUN SPORTS PROGRAM FOR LITTLE ONES

WIN

a plastic-free starter kit from The Clean Collective

THE GOLD COAST'S BEST INDOOR PLAY SPACES

WELCOME

B

rrr… anyone else feeling chilly? Though the mornings are a struggle, I love these cold winter weeks (there really aren’t many!), with crisp days and clear blue skies.

The beach is beautiful, the parks are green, and it gets just cold enough to remind you of what a beautiful corner of the world we live in.

In an effort to preserve this incredible little slice of paradise for our children and our children’s children, this issue we are all about living clean and green. We get the lowdown from the fabulous Charlie Thompson and Georgia Lawson over at The Clean Collective on the many simple steps we can all make to detox our homes.

For those little ones with energy to burn, we check out the best spots for indoor play across the Gold Coast. And we also chat to Billy Slater, to find out all about the fun sports program that is taking the Gold Coast by storm. (‘Scuse the pun!)

And as always, we have a round-up of the best events the Gold Coast has to offer throughout July and August as well as the usual local news, reviews and more.

With love and warm winter woolies,

Angela xo

How gorgeous is the eco-friendly kids’ picnic set on the cover?

If you want to take a step towards plastic-free living, and be totally on-trend, we are giving away a plastic-free kit from The Clean Collective.

Jump onto our website for all the details and to go into the draw! kidsonthecoast.com.au

THE TEAM

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Angela Sutherland

PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR Helen Rush

ACCOUNT MANAGER (GC) Bridget Vallis

ACCOUNT MANAGER (SC) Francesca Goad

DEPUTY EDITOR Amardy Baucke

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Amy Lou

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tanya Nissen

GRAPHIC DESIGN Danielle Lunn

ADMIN/ ACCOUNTS Sheryl Thomson

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CONTENTS

Features

PUBLISHED BY

SH RE

15

20

LIVING CLEAN AND GREEN:

ACTIVE: We chat to Billy Slater, to find out

The team at The Clean Collective share

about the fun sports program that is taking

their tips on how we can all detox our homes.

the Gold Coast by storm.

Hello? Hello!

Sorry, can’t chat right now, we’re at a really fun picnic!

IRIS (3)

MEDIA

FLORENCE (3)

PO Box 852, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573 inbox@shoremedia.com.au Phone 07 5471 2362

More than a magazine, we are a vibrant community, bringing the best in local news, events, features and more to parents across the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Made by local parents, for local parents, we strive to be the first place families come to connect – where they are understood, supported and inspired.

ADVERTISING SUNSHINE COAST: helen@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706 sunshinecoast@shoremedia.com.au 0432 674 159

Regulars

Rex London bamboo plates, cups and cutlery, Ever Eco bamboo drinking straws, Cheeki stainless steel insulated tumbler, Kleen Kanteen insulated mug, Ever Eco nesting containers, Rex London lunch bag: The Clean Collective | Pastel Forest picnic rug: Wandering Folk | Le Toy Van play food: Rainbow Fun | Piki Picnic Basket: Olli Ella | Jose Cushion Ochre: Raw Sunshine Coast | Iris wears: Milkshake long-sleeved shirt, Milkshake cord skirt: Myer | Hunter gumboots: The Iconic Florence wears: Jack & Milly denim dress: Myer | Hunter gumboots: The Iconic

FROM THE EDITOR ................................................................................................................ 3 WHAT’S ON: The best Brisbane events for July and August .................................................. 7 LOCAL NEWS: The latest news from across the city ..............................................................8 CHECK THIS OUT: The latest products topping our #want list ..........................................12 THINGS TO DO: Get historic at the Abbey Medieval Festival............................................ 18 HEALTH: Does your child have a phobia? This program may help!.......................................22 REVIEWS: Movies and books for the family............................................................................25 PLAY: The Gold Coast’s best spots for indoor play ................................................................. 30 CLASSIFIEDS: Family-friendly products and services..........................................................32 RECIPE: Spice up your life with these Vegetarian Egg Tacos................................................ 34 We encourage recycling. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

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GOLD COAST: goldcoast@shoremedia.com.au 0468 868 087 BRISBANE: brisbane@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 BOOKING DEADLINES Ad booking: 14 August Art deadline: 14 August Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across Southeast Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast.

For distribution enquiries inbox@shoremedia.com.au Printed at Printcraft All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications are published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Feedback, comments or suggestions?

Send to: inbox@shoremedia.com.au.

We aim to reply to all correspondence.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

NATURE PLAY SPACES AND LANDSCAPING

LET NATURE PAVE THE WAY! GDL Nature PlaySpaces creates custom nature inspired play spaces and landscaping. We work closely with you and gain inspiration from the children’s ideas to design the best possible solution to your space and budget to bring your concept to life. GDL Nature PlaySpaces caters for early learning centres, schools and public spaces.

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Our nature inspired play spaces and landscaping: • incorporate natural materials and elements such as water, sound, movement and balance • encourage unstructured, adventurous open ended play, exploration and experimentation in a natural outdoor setting • develop physical awareness along with fine and gross motor skills • build confidence • enhance the imagination and inspire self-designed play, creativity, learning and socialising

Nature PlaySpaces

0410 863 756 • info@gdlandscaping.com.au • www.gdlnatureplayspaces.com.au

We've got your kids covered from 7 months - 13 years An engaging activity hub for children, MyFirstGym inspires movement and encourages progression in a fun place where children love to play and parents love to stay! We run classes for all ages on a massive timetable.

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DENTAL SERVICE GOES BEYOND YOUR TEETH Going to the dentist isn’t just about brushing your teeth and cavity protection!

Gold Coast Dental and Denture Centre is the only certified practice on the Gold Coast to offer the ‘Thumb Sucking Cessation Program’.

Owners James and Imola Foster pride themselves on creating a child friendly environment and along with Dr Philippa McCarron their aim is to help children grow healthy teeth and jaws into adulthood.

“Our team and practice is a family practice with a passion for early intervention, developmental assessment and detecting growth in children’s oral health,” said Imola Foster. “We are parents of young children ourselves and the passion has come from lack of services for early years’ intervention.”

We treat children from as young as six months old for tongue tie assessment, feeding issues, sleep and development; a complete service for the whole family.

CERTIFIED THUMB SUCKING CESSATION PROGRAM AND DEDICATED CHILDREN’S TREATMENT AREA

BOOK NOW

No gap payment for eligible children with Medicare Dental Cover or Private Health Insurance for general dental services

www.gcdentalcentre.com.au

268 Ferry Road, Southport

5532 4168

WHAT’S ON VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE MORE EVENTS!

* WE PUBLISH INFORMATION BASED ON WHAT IS SUPPLIED TO US - TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE ALL DETAILS ARE CORRECT AT THE TIME OF PRINTING, HOWEVER WE DO RECOMMEND YOU CHECK EVENT DETAILS WITH THE ORGANISERS.

S I G N U P AT K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U / K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U F O R O U R W E E K LY W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E

THE YOUNG KING

VIVA SURFERS PARADISE 2019 13 TO 21 JULY | Esplanade, Surfers Paradise | surfersparadise.com Enjoy 10 days of classic entertainment for all ages. Musical acts and local dance troupes will set the mood in Cavill Mall with back-to-back performances during the day. See a unique feature show every night in the VIVA marquee, brought to you by Elvis Tribute artists and world-class tribute acts.

LittleA rtlab: To celebrate NAIDOC and the International Year of Indigenous Languages, learn local indigenous language and share your own words in this life-size cut and paste workshop. Perfect for children under 5.

A naïve boy raised by goatherds is discovered to be heir to the kingdom. Treasures and privileges are laid at his feet, but at what cost to others? The achingly beautiful and tender language of Oscar Wilde joins the intimate and magical world of internationally acclaimed Adelaide theatre company, Slingsby.

Possum Magic

OUR BODIES OUR LANGUAGES

10 JULY Artlab, HOTA, Surfers Paradise hota.com.au

2 AUGUST Arts Theatre, HOTA, Surfer’s Paradise hota.com.au

12 TO 13 JULY Home of the Arts, Surfers Paradise hota.com.au

Joined by an extraordinary creative team Monkey Baa is thrilled to be presenting a brand-new stage adaptation of this magical Australian classic for young audiences, promising an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.

THE LEGO® SEA EXPLORERS TO 14 JULY | SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba | sealifesunshinecoast.com.au

Get ready for a bricktastic adventure this winter with the arrival of The LEGO Sea Explorers at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast! Go on interactive mission to record discoveries about the sea creatures at the aquarium.

Kids will be challenged to build, draw, colour and create with LEGO.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

The Gruffalo Trail DAILY Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Currumbin currumbinsanctuary.com.au

Take a journey through the deep dark wood and meet your favourite characters along the way with the new augmented reality app.

This brand new interactive trail is included in the entry ticket price, along with daily photo opportunities with The Gruffalo.

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LOCAL NEWS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE NEWS: KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU

© AOMORI PREFEC

TURE

GOT A STORY TO SHARE? EMAIL OUR EDITOR ON INBOX@SHOREMEDIA.COM.AU

THE SNOWIEST CITY ON EARTH IS AOMORI CITY IN JAPAN, WHICH RECEIVES AN AVERAGE OF 7.9M OF SNOW EACH YEAR.

HAVING A FEAR OF SNOW IS CALLED ‘CHIONOPHOBIA’.

The record for the world’s largest snowman was set in 2008 in Bethel, Maine, USA. At a whopping 34.4m tall, three x 1.5m truck tyres were used for buttons, eyelashes were made from eight pairs of skis, and the scarf was 39m long.

25CM OF SNOW MELTS DOWN TO ONLY 2.5CM OF WATER.

EVERY WINTER, AT LEAST ONE SEPTILLION (THAT’S 1, FOLLOWED BY 24 ZEROS) SNOW CRYSTALS FALL FROM THE SKY. 8

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A NEW HOME FOR VISUAL ART After welcoming more than 1,240,352 visitors and 700 exhibitions over the past 33 years, the original Gallery at HOTA has closed its doors. Heralding the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Coast’s Home of the Arts, HOTA will turn its focus and energy to opening the brand new HOTA Gallery in early 2021.

Once open, the $60.5 million, six level, purpose-built space will be the largest gallery outside of a major city in Australia.

There is plenty for families to see and do too while the new Gallery is under construction. “For visitors of all ages there are a range of programs to engage in, including ArtLab and Life Drawing, plus our foyer display presenting key works from the Gold Coast City Collection,” said Gallery Director, Tracy Cooper-Lavery.

“We’ll also move towards presenting more art in the outdoors, where you can expect to see art pop up in unexpected places around the precinct.”

HELPING KIDS TO LOVE LEARNING

It’s said that if you enjoy a task, you’re good at it, and learning is no different.

Kumon Education Gold Coast advises parents to encourage and engage with their child’s curiosity whenever possible. “A curious mind is eager to learn more, this will serve children well throughout their education and life,” said Gary Yang, from Kumon Southport Education Centre.

“Answering questions honestly and genuinely will provide opportunities to discuss the question topic in more depth.”

And get reading! “Anytime is a great time for children to pick up a book, said Gary.

“Keep books by their bedside, and make sure books are always within easy reach.”

And lastly, help them to develop a growth mindset. “A growth mindset is knowing their effort has a direct impact on their achievement; they acknowledge their current abilities are a starting point for reaching their potential.”

Kumon is running a Free Trial during August, for students to experience their Maths or English Programme for free.

More information at www.au.kumonglobal.com

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

ENROLMENTS FILLING FAST! CALL NOW 07 5551 6711

Sanctuary Mermaid Waters

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We truly believe there needs to be a holistic approach to early learning. Call � to find out more about our STEAM program and music, sports, yoga and dance programs, which � included for all children.

Sign-up for our newsletter with games and tips to help your child develop these skills DOWNLOAD OUR FREE BOOKLET

kingscollege.qld.edu.au/PrepSkills

PROFILE

Naturally GROWN KIDS

I

t is well documented that children learn best through experiences they are interested in. Therefore, to actively engage a child in learning activities, early learning centres often now offer a range of hands-on experiences to allow children to explore and learn through play.

Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure Mermaid Waters has chosen to place this at the core of their philosophy, to best enhance every child’s learning journey.

“We have selected educators who are skilled in specialised areas which support

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children to learn through experiences they are interested in,” explains Caroline Macfarlane, Centre Director at Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure Mermaid Waters. “This way, we can cater for each and every child, no matter where their exploration takes them that day.”

One of the most successful activities this innovative centre has implemented so far is their gardening program.

“Research has shown the educational benefits to all children who are engaged in gardening experiences is remarkable,” says Caroline. “Our Gardening Club is

hugely popular, and supports children to develop new skills, gain confidence and have fun.”

“Through caring for plants, children learn responsibility and respect for the environment,” continues Caroline. “The opportunity to reason and discover about the science of plants, animals, nutrition and weather is also promoted. During this experience, the children are physically active and are open to trying new foods that they have helped to grow together.”

Not only does gardening educate children in caring for plants, but also how sustainable practices can be explored through growing their own food, and how that makes it to their plate.

“Mr Rick, our Chef, regularly requires fresh herbs from the garden for his recipes,” says Caroline. “One afternoon he asked the children if they could help him pick fresh rosemary to include in the roast beef he was preparing, they were more than happy to join him. They took a trip to the Junior Kindy herb gardens and used some scissors to cut the herbs for the meal. Mr Rick spoke to the children about what he was using them for and the children couldn’t wait to taste the end product! This opened up so many conversations and had the children explore some concepts such as sustainable practices and science concepts.”

For more information on Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure Mermaid Waters, call (07) 5551 6711 or visit sanctuarylearning.com.au

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

THINGS TO DO

MUSEUM OF BRISBANE… when did you last go?

BRISBANE CITY HALL. PHOTOGRAPH BY CARL WARNER. ARTWORK BY SEAN DOWLING. IMAGE COURTESY MUSEUM OF BRISBANE. BRISBANE CITY HALL CLOCK TOWER. IMAGE COURTESY MUSEUM OF BRISBANE.

A

Bringing the culture and history of Brisbane to life.

n oasis from the hustle of the Brisbane’s best storytellers and can take city, Museum of Brisbane is a you on a tour of City Hall and to the top of contemporary space on the rooftop the iconic Clock Tower. These tours blend of City Hall. With a bundle of kid-friendly historical fact with tales about some of the exhibitions, the museum brings the city’s city’s best-known personalities, anecdotes and vibrant art, culture and history to life through trivia, and are a great way for the kids to get to workshops, tours, talks and MoB Kids. learn more about the city.

The Museum believes that At the end of a culture-filled art, culture and history should day, the much-loved MoB Shop MUSEUM OF BRISBANE be experienced, encouraging is well worth a visit. Filled with Level 3, City Hall, King families to think boldly, to share bespoke ranges of jewellery, George Square, Brisbane 10am – 5pm daily, ideas and challenge perceptions. fashion accessories, homewares 10am – 7pm Fridays From co-creating with artists and books, from artists, Museumofbrisbane.com.au to reflecting on contemporary designers, writers, artisans 07 3339 0800 identity, the goal is to ensure and small creative businesses you have a memorable and of Brisbane and Southeast insightful experience every visit.

Queensland, it’s the perfect place for a unique Any day in the Museum you may find gift or keepsake.

Traditional Owners sharing local lore, an “We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of artist-in-residence creating new work, a Brisbane and surrounds, the Yuggara, Turrbal, Jinibara, Quandamooka and neighbouring clan groups. We are performance in one of the exhibitions, and privileged to work closely with Aboriginal and Torres educators nurturing curiosity and creativity.

Strait Islander Elders, artists, curators, writers and Need a little guidance on your visit? The storytellers to share and celebrate the rich knowledge, guides at Museum of Brisbane are among art and histories of our First Nations communities.”

MUSEUM OF BRISBANE P R E S E N TS

Enjoy hands-on, interactive experiences at Museum of Brisbane.

Step inside a fully automated film studio, play with patterns using Roboblox, build your own floating house of the future and explore your inner artist and draw with light on the Museum walls.

Visit museumofbrisbane.com.au for more information.

Level 3, City Hall, King George Square, Brisbane Free entry | 10am - 5pm daily, 10am - 7pm Fridays

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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CHECK THIS OUT THE LATEST PRODUCTS TOPPING OUR #WANT LIST!

PALS INCLUSIVE MISMATCHED SOCKS

As featured on the cover!

The popular American inclusive streetwear socks have landed in Australia, and we love! All Pals socks come mismatched as two different friends. A cat and a dog. A dragon and a unicorn. Ice Cream and Donut. Inspiring kids to have a friend not just like them and encouraging empathy in a really fun way. Made from supercomfy terry cotton to prevent holes, kids’ socks also come with no-skid grips on the soles. From $14.99 mysockcompany.com

THE NAIL SNAIL The Nail Snail is designed to provide greater control and accuracy for easier, safer and faster nail cutting, offering complete fingernail and toenail care for your little one. The innovative v-shaped blade makes for smoother nail cutting, and being so simple to use, it’s quick to get the job done. The fun snail shape and noiseless cutting edge means your child won’t mind having their nails trimmed! Simple, effective and safe, the Nail Snail makes trimming baby’s nails a breeze. $19.95 nail-snail.com

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HONEYBAKE SMOOTHIE FRUIT IN CRATE This cute little crate of play fruit from Le Toy Van features a selection of eco-friendly wooden toy fruit pieces in a cute little wooden crate. This set includes two bananas, a strawberry, a peach and a watermelon slice all freshly harvested from the Le Toy Van garden. Suitable for ages: 3+ years. $24.99 rainbowfun.com.au

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

MOBY NIGHT LIGHTS Help kiddies cruise to snooze with these happy little night lights from Flow Amsterdam. Available in four different sizes (mini, small, medium and large) this soft low-density polyethylene night lamp makes it perfectly safe for kids to cuddle with. RRP: $29.95 – $450 dutchbydesign.com.au

SHEA MOISTURE BABY COLLECTION This gentle skincare range is made from natural ingredients to nurture and soothe and care for a baby’s delicate skin: shea butter deeply moisturises and nourishes the skin, chamomile calms the skin and senses, argan oil, frankincense and myrrh extracts keep skin soft and smooth. Amazing for a mama’s hands too!

From $19.95 sheamoisture.com.au

GIRLS BEANIES Stay toastie this winter with these warm and wooly beanies from Myer. The Sprout Bunny Beanie (left) and Jack & Milly Intarsia Beanie (right) both come in several sizes for a perfect fit, and feature a fun coloured pom pom to be totally on-trend this season. $16.95 myer.com.au

REUSABLE COFFEE CUPS Made from extremely durable borosilicate glass, Little Strawberries reusable coffee cups are perfect for people on the go. Each cup comes with a food grade, BPA-free silicone lid and sleeve. They also have an elevated lid to drink from, making them less likely to spill or leak when being transported.

Dishwasher safe, microwave safe, eco-friendly and affordable! $28.00 littlestrawberries.com.au

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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LIVING CLEAN & GREEN Easy ways to detox your bathroom

W

ith all the recent discussion about the effects of carbon emissions on the planet, you might think it’s safer to stay indoors.

Surely the air is cleaner inside our homes? Alarmingly, the average person receives 72 per cent of their total toxic chemical exposure at home!

The Environment Protection Authority believes our indoor environment is two to five times more toxic than our outdoor environment. In extreme cases, air measurements indoors have been found to be 100 times more polluted than outdoors – yikes!

Much of this pollution comes from our cleaning products. Our bathrooms can be one of the biggest indoor polluters, where we use chemicals on the floor, in the air, down the sinks, down the toilet, in the bath... the list goes on. And what you wash down the drain ends up in our waterways and back into our ecosystem and food chain. A study by Environment Canada found 400 chemicals in commercial use across Canada and the US will not be broken down and will end up accumulating in fish and wildlife.

Luckily, with just a few small changes to our daily lifestyles, we can all help to reverse these statistics and make our homes a much greener place to live!

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

1. Read the labels and know which ingredients to avoid

2. Don’t want to spend time reading the labels? Go natural instead!

Many mainstream brands fool us into thinking they are good for the planet and our health, boasting taglines like ‘made using organic ingredients’, or by using images of leaves or nature. You feel good about putting them into your shopping trolley, thinking you’re making an ethical, responsible consumer choice. But, when you turn over the bottle and look on the back, you are suddenly confronted with an alphabet soup of words that look like they have been plucked from the periodic table.

Many chemicals – either naturally occurring or man-made – can be toxic.

Common toxins to look out for include lead, methylmercury, arsenic, pesticides, chlorine, sodium hydroxide, sodium laurel sulphate, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), phthalates, parabens, sulphates, triclosan, ammonia, chlorine, sodium hydroxide, propylene, ethylene, butadiene, benzene, xylene perc (perchloroethylene), alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs) and phosphates.

‘Kills 99.9% of germs!’, ‘Powerful foam penetrates and lifts through grime!’, ‘Tough on stains!’ Sound familiar?

Mainstream cleaning brands will have us believe the strongest, toughest chemical cleaners are best for our homes and our families. But in fact, research by the US Environmental Protection Agency found more than 150 chemicals commonly used in our household cleaners are associated with allergies, cancer, psychological disorders and birth defects.

So, it goes without saying, if you replace toxin-heavy chemical cleaners with clean, eco-friendly products, you’ll feel better than ever! The easiest way to do this is to choose truly natural cleaning products.

Brands such as Koala Eco or Lil Bit Better meet the strict guidelines of The Clean Collective, ensuring they are safe for your family. The Clean Collective has the strictest ingredients and materials policy in Australia, so shopping there means never having to read a label again. Winning!

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3. DIY toxin-free bathroom Confused by the labels? One way to know what’s in your products is to make them yourself!

Truly natural cleaning products are completely toxin-free and surprisingly easy to make.

More than 95 per cent of the chemicals in synthetic fragrances are derived from petrochemicals, including benzene derivatives, aldehydes and phthalates. To avoid these, here are three simple DIY recipes* you can try at home.

FLORAL ROOM FRAGRANCE WHAT YOU NEED:

25 drops lavender essential oil 25 drops geranium essential oil 5 drops ylang ylang essential oil 2 tsp vodka 120ml amber glass spray bottle Distilled water

LIQUID HAND SOAP

HOW TO MAKE IT:

• Mix all ingredients together in the glass spray bottle.

• Gently shake to mix.

WHAT YOU NEED:

½ cup Castile Soap liquid ½ cup distilled water 1 tablespoon of Vitamin E oil (optional) 1 tablespoon almond oil or jojoba oil or olive oil 15 drops of tea tree essential oil 5-10 drops lavender essential oil An amber glass jar or pump bottle, or a recycled soap dispenser HOW TO MAKE IT:

EUCALYPTUS ALL PURPOSE CLEANER WHAT YOU NEED:

20 drops of eucalyptus essential oil 20 drops of orange essential oil 20 drops of peppermint essential oil ¼ cup of grain alcohol (like Everclear; 120 proof or higher) ¾ cup of distilled water 8oz glass spray bottle HOW TO MAKE IT:

• Add all ingredients to the bottle and shake well.

• Shake well before each use.

• Clean surfaces around the house with a cloth… it smells great too!

• Be sure to test on surface before use. Don’t worry about the alcohol, it evaporates really quickly, and the smell will only linger a few minutes.

• In the glass jar, pump bottles or using a recycled soap dispenser, add the water first (to prevent bubbles) and then add the Castile Soap and the oils.

• Gently shake to mix the ingredients together.

• Shake gently before each use and then squirt or pour a small amount onto your hands and rinse with water.

4. Avoid the (synthetic) bubble They might make for some bath-time fun, but bubbles are often caused by SLS, the ingredient that creates lather and one of the most commonly used detergents and emulsifiers in cosmetics and personal hygiene products.

SLS has been proven to cause both skin and eye irritation. Not to mention, when it’s manufactured, it gets contaminated with two carcinogens: 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide.

For natural bubbles try products such as Little Innoscents Hair & Body Wash or Wotnot Baby Wash.

*Ingredients and spray bottles can be sourced at thecleancollective.com

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K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

5. Go plastic free!

Plastic also contributes to the amount of toxins in our home. Toxic chemicals leach out of plastic and are found in the blood and tissue of nearly all of us. Exposure to them is linked to cancers, birth defects, impaired immunity, endocrine disruption and other ailments. Yikes again!

Avoid plastic in your bathroom with some of these super-cute alternatives.

PATCH BAMBOO ORGANIC KIDS ADHESIVE STRIPS These biodegradable, plasticfree, hypoallergenic band-aids‚ are engineered for the future eco-warriors – our kids. Made from 100% organic bamboo fibre, and enriched with coconut oil in the gauze to help soothe minor abrasions and provide long-lasting support for sensitive skin. And let’s not forget the cute panda print, designed to comfort children in life’s little emergencies. $7.99 thecleancollective.com

THE CLEAN COLLECTIVE PLASTIC-FREE BATHROOM BUNDLE Replace your bathroom essentials with these gorgeous plastic-free, eco-friendly options: plastic-free cotton buds, bamboo toothbrush, plastic-free and fair-trade nail brush, a pure konjac sponge, and a coconut-fibre foot and body scrub. Equal amounts of good looking and damn useful, this bundle makes a perfect gift for any eco-conscious friend or family member. $50.20 thecleancollective.com

JACK N JILL DINO RINSE CUP Make teeth brushing time more fun with this super cute Dino rinse cup! Has a matching toothbrush and can be used to rinse after brushing, store the brush and toothpaste, or as a lightweight but durable drinking cup. This eco-friendly cup is made from bamboo and rice husks, and is dishwasher safe. $9.95 thecleancollective.com

THE HUMBLE CO BAMBOO TOOTHBRUSH, KIDS ULTRA SOFT The world’s most sold bamboo toothbrush for kids. Humble Brush has a handle made from 100% biodegradable, sustainablygrown bamboo. The bristles are made of nylon-6 bristles from Dupont. The packaging is eco-friendly, the box and inside wrapper are made from recycled materials, and can be thrown out with the organic trash. Plus, every Humble purchase goes towards funding oral health projects for children in need. $6.45 thecleancollective.com

B Y C H A R L I E T H O M P S O N & G E O R G I A L AW S O N , F R O M T H E C L E A N C O L L E C T I V E The Clean Collective provides the cleanest and greenest products on earth, all in one place.

Every product passes a strict multi-process system that forensically checks every ingredient before it makes it into the collection.

A kind-hearted bunch of like-minded mamas, you can connect with them at thecleancollective.com or on social: @thecleancollective

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THINGS TO DO

StepABBEY back in time at the MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL Ever wondered what life was like in the Middle Ages? This July, step back to days of old at the Abbey Medieval Festival!

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ith food vendors, merchants, craft, two taverns, eight entertainment venues, and over 40 re-enactment encampments, the Abbey Medieval Festival has something for everyone.

Kids Dig It! Medieval Family Fun Week

Top of the list for families is the Kids Dig It! Medieval Family Fun Week. You will find all the Abbey Museum favourites including archery, archaeological digs and shield painting, plus a few new activities to keep kids occupied!

Learn the art of illumination, calligraphy, and needlework at the Master Classroom. See what treasures you can find at the archaeological dig! Join the Page Training to find out what life was like for a young boy starting his training to be a Knight, (of course both boys and girls are welcome!), and get arty by decorating a shield, poppet (wooden doll), or torque (headband). There will also be Archery and plenty of games from the Middle Ages including Skittles, Quoits, Nine Men’s Morris, and Chess.

The museum will be full of calming activities like a reading corner, paper crafts, brass rubbings, puzzles and costume dress ups.

Held from 1 – 5 July; activities start at 10am and run until 3pm every day.

Tournament Weekend

Held on 13 and 14 July, there are five tournaments

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Information When: Kids Dig It! Medieval Family Fun Week 1–5 July Tournament Weekend 13–14 July Where: 1–63 The Abbey Place, Caboolture, Queensland, 4510 More info: abbeymedievalfestival.com / 07 5495 1652 that take place across Tournament Weekend.

The most popular is, without a doubt, the joust.

The pageantry, suspense and action of this medieval sport has been a long tradition of the Abbey Medieval Festival. National and internationally acclaimed jousters will compete at the Abbey Medieval Festival in the hopes of becoming the 2019 Joust Champion. The Abbey Medieval Festival’s joust is held three times each day, with the finale on Sunday afternoon seeing the champion chosen.

Debuting in 2018, the holmgang was the first Dark Age ritual to feature as one of the Abbey Medieval Festival’s five official tournaments.

Literally translated as ‘small island walk’, the Norse tradition was a duel, a way to settle a dispute through combat where resolution couldn’t be found through legal talks and negotiation.

The Archery Tournament is also a long running tradition of the Abbey Medieval Festival. Hosted by the Traditional Archery Companye, the Archery Tournament sees skilled archers from re-enactment groups compete for the title of Archery Champion.

There will also be a Tournament of Strength and Skill, designed to test the physical prowess of the knights, and Turkish Oil Wrestling.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

CONTACT US FOR A Basic Ball Skills Program

by Billy Slater Why choose Billy’s Buddies?

Billy’s Buddies has been voted the Best National Preschooler Activity for children aged 2-6. With more than 8,000 children having participated in the program, your little one is sure to love it!

FREE TRIAL! www.billysbuddies.com.au

0403 560 387

• More than 200 locations • Maximum of 12 kids per class • Register online at anytime!

• We also do birthday parties

BILLY’S BUDDIES With over 8,000 children already participating in the program and more than 290 locations each week, Billy’s Buddies is the fun sports program that is taking the region by storm. We chat to Billy Slater to find out more.

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illy’s Buddies is the brainchild of Billy Slater – former Melbourne Storm, Queensland and Australian Rugby League representative. Currently running across Greater Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Sydney and Cairns, the sports program is the home of non-contact rugby league for kids ages two to six. And the little ones can’t get enough!

WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO START T H E P R O G R A M ?

One of my main inspirations for starting Billy’s Buddies was my own two kids, Tyla and Jake. They love running around and being active. For me, it’s important that as many kids as possible have the opportunity to learn about how to be active, run, jump and have a great time in the Billy’s Buddies program.

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WHAT KEY SKILLS DO KIDS L E A R N I N B I L L Y ’ S B U D D I E S ?

We are a non-contact program, with the fundamentals of movement at heart. One of the key points of our program is that Billy’s Buddies is non-competitive program, it’s about giving kids the opportunity to be more active in a safe and fun environment.

We focus on how to pass, run and jump, all within structured coach-led sessions that help kids have fun being active. In our Billy’s Buddies program, kids will be involved in fun, high energy activities that focus on a range of different skills-based activities each week, for example ‘Hot Hotdogs’ which teaches kids how to pass a ball, catch a ball and run around the play area. These fundamentals are great for any kid in any environment. Each activity aims to build on the previous session’s skill levels to add

another element of fun and challenge. Kids love this as it keeps them interested. We also introduce a weekly theme to the games such as ‘Robots’ or ‘Dinosaur Week’, to take the kids on an interactive journey each week.

WHY TARGET THIS YOUNGER A G E G R O U P ?

I feel that being able to help younger kids have an appreciation for rugby league, sport and movement in general is critical. If we can provide them with a really positive set of experiences when they are young, then, fingers crossed, they will play sport and be active for many years to come.

WHAT DO YOU FIND THE KIDS ENJOY MOST ABOUT THE P R O G R A M ?

Rugby league, like a lot of sports, is a great

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way for kids to get outside, learn a few new skills and to socialise with others. Our Billy’s Buddies program is designed to help kids learn how to pass a footy, run around and to do movements that are similar to footy, but, let’s not forget that we want to have fun, especially, as we are teaching 2- to 6-year olds. The fundamentals that we teach, provide kids with great skills to take with them to any sport or just to be healthier.

DO GIRLS ENJOY IT TOO? Absolutely! The skills and activities that our fantastic coaches teach each session are designed for anyone. Adding to this, it’s non-contact, it’s heaps of fun and no two weeks are the same. Each 40-minute session is based on a different theme so the children are taken on a fun and exciting journey through theme-based games and activities – the skills and drills are all learnt subconsciously. We have designed our Billy’s Buddies program with kids in mind, they need to enjoy it.

DO YOUR OWN KIDS E N J O Y P L A Y I N G R U G B Y L E A G U E ?

Our kids enjoy all sports, they always have!

Jake has played rugby league for four years now. Tyla does dancing and acrobatics.

We often go to the park and make up little games together. Seeing our kids have fun outside is really important to my wife and I. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST A B O U T C O A C H I N G L I T T L E K I D S ?

I feel that it’s important for all kids to have the opportunity to be the best that they can be. I enjoy seeing them learn something

new, meet a new friend and have a great big smile on their face. I enjoy giving back as much as I can.

WHAT AGE DID YOU FIRST START K I C K I N G A B A L L A N D P L AY I N G R U G B Y L E A G U E ?

I have been playing rugby league ever since I can remember. I think I was three or four years old when I first started. I have very fond memories of running around, kicking a footy and being around a bunch of my mates. I’ve always loved it.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO D O W H E N Y O U H AV E A D AY O F F ?

Something with my family. Our last day off together we went to the zoo. I think Mum and Dad had just as much fun as the kids did!

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF THAT THE READERS M I G H T N O T K N O W …

My wife and I met at a pony club when we were 13. We both have a passion for horses and like country music.

It’s non-contact and heaps of fun!

AND THE PROGRAM HAS R E C E N T LY W O N A N AWA R D! TELL US ABOUT THAT...

Yes! Billy’s Buddies has won Best National Preschooler Activity in the 2019 What’s On 4 Kids Awards - Recognising Excellence in Australian Kids Activity Industry. It’s such a fantastic achievement. To be just three years old and win a national award is fantastic, I’m super proud of the whole team.

Billy Slater’s own two children, Jake and Tyla, were the inspiration behind Billy’s Buddies.

“IF WE PROVIDE THEM WITH A POSITIVE SET OF EXPERIENCES WHEN THEY ARE YOUNG, THEN THEY WILL BE ACTIVE FOR MANY YEARS TO COME.”

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WELLBEING

Does your pre-schooler have a phobia?

THIS MAY HELP!

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s your child excessively afraid of certain situations or objects, or avoid certain places or doing certain things because of their fear? Your child may be experiencing a specific phobia and Griffith University has a free program to help!

A research team at Griffith University is offering free assessment and treatment for children ages three to five years with a specific phobia. The program, Pre-schoolers Overcoming Phobias (POP!) is part of a nationally funded treatment study of young children with specific phobias. The study is being run by a team of international experts in child anxiety, led by Associate Professor Lara Farrell.

“Childhood fears onset early in life, and the longer children live with these fears and phobias, the poorer the long-term prognosis,” Lara explains. “The good news is that phobias can be treated in a very efficient way – through an intensive, one session, cognitive-behavioural treatment. We know this treatment works for adults, as well as youth, but so far, there are no large trials for pre-schoolers – despite the fact that phobias often onset at this age. This study will provide critical new knowledge about whether this treatment works at this very young age, as well as whether the outcomes are durable over time.”

What are the signs that a child has a phobia?

All children are fearful of new things at some point. However, a phobia occurs when the level of fear is much higher than usual, when the child actively avoids the stimuli at all costs, and the extreme fearfulness and avoidance persists over time.

“Furthermore, the fear and avoidance becomes problematic for the child and/or the family, whereby these fears stop the family being able to do things they previously could,

for example – visiting friends or going to the What’s involved in the POP! program? park,” Lara explains.

The Pre-Schoolers Overcoming Phobias Rather than children growing out of (POP!) program is currently examining the a phobia, such as we are led to believe, effectiveness of brief cognitive-behavioural evidence now suggests that phobias in treatment (CBT) for specific phobias in childhood are a powerful marker of risk for children three to five years of age. The study the development of mental health is a randomised controlled trial “Phobias in disorders later in life.

(RCT) aiming to learn more about the course of childhood fears childhood are Why do children develop in young children, and involves a powerful phobias? marker of risk for testing a novel, brief intervention There are multiple pathways for for childhood phobias, which has the development a child to develop a phobia, Lara proven effective in older children of mental health and with adults. explains. “It could be exposure to disorders later stressful and traumatic learning Any specific phobia presenting in life.” events, hearing or seeing negative in children aged three to five years information about the phobic old can be explored in the program stimuli (i.e. animal, situation, place), as well (excluding blood/injection/injury phobias). as observing other people (e.g., parents) The POP! program is run from Griffith model fear or avoidance around the stimuli, University’s Gold Coast campus in Southport or a biological predisposition.” and will be recruiting participants until 2022.

F O R F U R T H E R I N F O R M AT I O N A B O U T T H E P R O G R A M , C A L L T H E P O P ! T E A M O N (07) 56 78 8 3 17 O R E M A I L P O P-G C @ G R I F F I T H .E D U. A U

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s e i v o M

REVIEWS

SPIDER-MAN™: FAR FROM HOME

In cinemas 1 July (CTC)

Peter Parker returns in Spider-Man™: Far From Home, the next chapter of the SpiderMan™: Homecoming series! Our friendly neighbourhood Super Hero decides to join his best friends Ned, MJ, and the rest of the gang on a European vacation. However, Peter’s plan to leave super heroics behind after a few weeks are quickly scrapped when he begrudgingly agrees to help Nick Fury uncover the mystery of several elemental creature attacks, creating havoc across the continent.

SUNSHINE COAST - BRISBANE - GOLD COAST

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE ONLINE NOW!

DISNEY’S “THE LION KING”

A DOG’S JOURNEY

In cinemas 17 July (CTC)

In cinemas 15 August (CTC)

Director Jon Favreau’s all-new The Lion King journeys to the African savanna where a future king is born. Simba idolises his father, King Mufasa, and takes to heart his own royal destiny.

But not everyone in the kingdom celebrates the new cub’s arrival. Scar, Mufasa’s brother – and former heir to the throne – has plans of his own.

The battle for Pride Rock is ravaged with betrayal, ultimately resulting in Simba’s exile. With help from a curious pair of newfound friends, Simba will have to figure out how to take back what is rightfully his. The all-star cast includes Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, and James Earl Jones as Mufasa.

In this sequel to the heartwarming global hit A Dog’s Purpose, beloved Dog Bailey finds his new destiny and forms an unbreakable bond that will lead him, and the people he loves, to places he never imagined. Bailey is living the good life on the Michigan farm boy of his “boy”, Ethan, and Hannah. He even has a new playmate: Ethan and Hannah’s baby granddaughter CJ. The problem is that CJ’s mom decides to take CJ away. As Bailey’s soul prepares to leave this life for a new one, he makes a promise to Ethan to find CJ and protect her at any cost. Thus begins Bailey’s adventure through multiple lives filled with love, friendship and devotion.

KIDS ON THE COAST KIDS IN THE CITY

BOOK YOUR FAMILY SAVER SESSIONS AT BCC AND EVENT CINEMAS AND SAVE AT EVENTCINEMAS.COM.AU! K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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REVIEWS

s k oo B BOOT 01 SMALL ROBOT BIG ADVENTURE: BOOK 1

by Shane Hegarty RRP $14.99

When toy robot, Boot, wakes up at a scrapyard, it has no idea how it got there and why it isn’t with its owner, Beth. It only has two and a half glitchy memories, but it knows it was loved. With new friends by its side, Boot is determined to find Beth and the gang set off on a dangerous adventure.

Boot is a heart-warming, humorous story that will take you by surprise and make you think about the world around you. For ages 8-12.

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COLOUROOS

by Anna McGregor RRP: $14.99

When three differently coloured groups of kangaroos come together at the same watering hole – red blue and yellow – they aren’t sure what to make each of other at first. But they soon discover that they aren’t so different after all. As the three groups become one, new colours appear, and soon the roos have created a beautiful rainbow! A fun, light-hearted story about the colour spectrum, Colouroos is a beautiful celebration of diversity.

THE ULTIMATE ANIMAL COUNTING BOOK

by Jennifer Cossins RRP $29.99

Go on an expedition through the animal kingdom with this gorgeous animal counting book. Count one to 100 and collect fascinating animal facts along the way. Discover the colour of a zebra’s skin under its stripes, how a tapir uses its nose as a snorkel when it swims, and that cranes are famous for their dancing! Beautifully illustrated with full-colour pictures of animals great and small, The Ultimate Animal Counting Book is a delight to share.

DRAGONBOX BIG NUMBERS

We love the DragonBox suite of apps for an entertaining spin on maths, and Big Numbers is no exception. Dive into the world of the Nooms and learn big numbers, long addition and subtraction!

To advance in the game you must think strategically to add and subtract resources and unlock new worlds. Over the course of the game, quantities will get larger and operations will get harder. Use your resources to decorate the Noom houses in their own style. There are six different worlds to explore. For ages 6–9.

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THE BENEFITS OF BLACK AND WHITE BOOKS FOR BABIES

ver wondered why baby books are often black and white? Although babies can see from birth, the world is still quite blurry to a newborn. The retina is not fully developed until nine months of age and a newborn can only see strong contrasts of dark and light. In fact, when babies are born, they see best at around 15-20cm – roughly the distance they are held for feeding.

A baby’s colour perception is also limited at birth, with babies seeing black and white first, then shades of grey, then red, followed by the other colours.

Experts believe that this reduced vision is a biological trait, in place to help babies feel safe with the parent, as well as limiting sensory input from the wider world.

Because of this, a high-contrast book with bold patterns and simple shapes is going to appeal most to a young baby, and babies are never too young for a book! A black and white book gives your baby the opportunity to start to experience shapes and patterns from the wider world and help them begin to learn

to focus, whilst also providing gentle entertainment and stimulation.

For newborns, choose black and white books with strong contrasts and very simple patterns. From 6–9 months old, you can start to introduce books with bold colours, shapes and outlines, as well as tactile books that they can feel and touch.

As well as reading with them, talk to your baby about the pictures on the page – they love nothing more than to listen to your voice, and it’s a wonderful bonding opportunity for you both.

Rather than rushing out to buy books, Gold Coast Libraries has a large collection of black and white books, perfect for babies 0–9 months. Borrow up to 20 books at a time (completely free!), to ensure your baby is always entertained and to begin to nurture your baby’s love for reading from the moment they are born.

Gold Coast Libraries

BABY RHYME TIME It’s never too early to start reading to your baby.

Experience the magic of Baby Rhyme Time at your local library.

It’s an interactive session for babies aged 0 – 2 years and a chance for you to learn fun new ways to encourage early language development.

Fun, free and friendly!

Make your baby’s first card a library card.

CGC14426

Visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/storytime for times and locations.

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Discover their spark Your child’s education should not only be measured by tests and scores. Teachers in today’s Catholic schools know a ranking upon graduation is not the sole definition of your child’s success. Their education should also be filled with encouragement and wonderment; where their heart sings with joy, every school day.

Find out more at

More than

brisbanecatholicschools.com.au

Schools

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Transforming

An inclusive

Students

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72,000

CASE STUDY

ZOE WALKER-MUNRO

REBECCA WILLCOX

THE RIGHT LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR ARCHIE TO THRIVE

O

n his first day of Kindy, Archie was just like every other four-year old, excited to start his new chapter.

“We had no doubts that he would settle in comfortably,” said mum Renae.

At drop off, he did not cry and was happy for Mum to leave. “When we picked him up in the afternoon, the teacher mentioned that Archie had an outburst when it came to rest time,” said Renae. “On the second day of Kindy, the teacher said he had another outburst, she also mentioned that he was highly sensitive to touch and sounds throughout the day.”

Puzzled by the behaviour that Archie had not exhibited before, over the following days, Archie had what resembled an anxiety attack over everyday things. Concerned he wasn’t going to fit into the Kindy world, Renae began to look for an alternative.

“I wanted to find somewhere Archie would feel comfortable so he didn’t miss out on the learning experiences he was so eager for. I was also aware that he needed help to learn the social and emotional skills required in the learning environment.”

After a lot of searching she decided to start Archie at Sprouting Minds. “I was drawn to the fact the teacher to child ratio was 1:6 and that the maximum number of children in each class was 12,” Renae explains. “I thought that would be a much

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

gentler way to introduce Archie to a learning environment with other children.”

Sprouting Minds differs from other forms of education because they involve smaller groups of children and are shorter sessions of two to three hours. The class is a combination of various purposeful play areas and set group activities. “The classes manage to cover pre-literacy, prenumeracy, fine motor skills and sensory learning whilst still being fun and relaxed,” explained Renae. “The format works both as a sole education source for children who do not attend Kindy and also as a supplementary form of education for children who attend another service.”

Zoe Walker-Munro and Rebecca Willcox, teachers and co-founders of Sprouting Minds, believe that Prep has taken a more structured approach to learning in recent years, and that children can struggle with the pressures of this giant leap into formal schooling.

“We feel that supporting the acquisition of the traditional non-academic skills and traits such as social skills, language skills, independence, self-regulation, concentration, emotional maturity, confidence and resilience can have major benefits in a successful transition into the Prep year,” Zoe said. “These skills are so important as they are what allow our

children to learn and grow.”

In this new environment, Archie soon returned to his ‘old self’ and he hasn’t suffered an anxiety attack since. “I could clearly see that Archie was developing resilience and using his newfound social and emotional skills out in the big world,” said Renae.

Making the leap into a learning environment away from parents can be a frightening time for children but it is also such an important time. “If they are not prepared for ‘big school’, it can affect their learning outcomes throughout school,” Renae said. “A gentle start will not only grow their confidence but they will gain a host of school readiness skills that they will certainly use over the coming years.”

For a sensitive child like Archie, it was the perfect way to introduce him to an educational environment.

“He feels safe, and excited to attend Sprouting Minds because he trusts Bec and Zoe to look after him. He gets to relax, have fun and learns at the same time,” Renae said. “For Archie, it was an overwhelming change from being home with me full time to attending somewhere unfamiliar with lots of people. The Sprouting Minds classes bridged that gap, so he could feel comfortable in an unfamiliar environment.”

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! y a l eL t’s p

As the days get colder, the indoor play centre is a sanity saver for many families.

Here are some of the Gold Coast’s best indoor play spaces for the littlies to burn off some energy this winter.

ABRAKIDAZZLE INDOOR P L AY A R E N A

48/3 Jackman Street, Southport abrakidazzle.com.au This indoor play arena features a threelevel maze for kids along with a jumping castle. There is also a dedicated area for little ones (ages 3 and under), with a scaleddown maze. Parents and caregivers can relax at Dazzlers Cafe while the kids play, enjoying a cafe quality Merlo espresso in the glass enclosed, sound-reduced space.

There is easy pram and wheelchair access, convenient baby changing and feeding facilities and plenty of free parking. Don’t forget your socks!

B I G T O P P L AY H O U S E

2/24 Kohl Street, Upper Coomera bigtopplayhouse.com.au This circus-themed centre is best suited for children aged 8 months to 8 years.

The family friendly venue is an open-air facility with play structures, disco room, party area, and a cafe with yummy meals and homemade treats. Enjoy a coffee and delicious treat whilst your child explores, or join them for a speed slide race and playground session.

The play structure is built for all ages and designed to encourage parents to interact with their little ones.

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MY FIRST GYM, ROBINA

Enjoy a story and fun activities every week at the local library.

Cnr Scottsdale Dr & Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina myfirstgym.com.au My First Gym has landed on the Gold Coast, and they are on a mission to mobilise little ones! They offer a huge (yep, HUGE!) range of classes and activities for kids of all ages, from Baby Explorer sessions to Gymnastics, Yoga, Jujitsu (BJJ) and Ninja Warrior.

Storytime is an interactive They also have open gym session designed to develop My First Gym offers a huge play sessions for parents a love of books and reading range of fun indoor classes. to bring their little in children. Toddler Time ones along for free play is for those toddlers who (supervision required). It’s like to move – get up and fabulous indoor fun and exercise dance with this interactive session which is for kids of all ages and all interests. all about new words, fun body movements Bookings are essential. and games for your child.

STORY TIME, TODDLER TIME AND RHYME TIME

Libraries across the region goldcoast.qld.gov.au/library These free weekly sessions provide fun group interactive activities for children under five and their carers. Rhymetime features songs, rhymes and finger plays to promote early literacy and language development for infants up to two years.

DOODLEBUGS INDOOR P L AY A N D PA R T Y C E N T R E

6/54 Paradise Ave, Miami goldcoastplaycentre.com.au Doodlebugs is a family owned and operated play centre located in the heart of Miami, featuring great play equipment including a separate toddler area and a dedicated ‘nonwalker’ area for little ones. Enjoy the indoor train and have fun shooting foam balls K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

THINGS TO DO holosports, visit the planets of the solar system, battle monsters on an alien planet, or holographically fly over the Gold Coast.

Younger ones can also take a trip to Veggie Patch Valley. Because younger children may find the experience quite intense at times, parents or guardians may enter the room at no extra cost.

from the super cannons in the Cannonball Battle Zone. With an uninterrupted view of the main play area parents and caregivers can enjoy a coffee and cake while catching up with friends or make use of the complimentary Wi-Fi.

TIMEZONE SURFERS PA R A D I S E

Level 1, Paradise Centre, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise | timezonesurfersparadise.com.au Timezone is an indoor arcade paradise for kids of all ages. Enjoy laser skirmish, dodgems, simulators, mini golf, bowling, and a bundle of arcade games. There is plenty for the little ones too, with the carousel, Kiddy Land, kid-sized rides and cute animals.

S L I D E WAY S G O K A R T I N G GOLD COAST

Embark on a high-tech adventure at Holoverse or enjoy the arcade fun at Timezone.

HOLOVERSE

59 Nerang St, Southport | holoverse.com.au Perfect for ages six and up, why not try stepping into a different reality, on a hightech adventure at Holoverse? Walk with the dinosaurs, swim with the turtles, play

www.sproutingmindseducation.com.au

10 Spencer Road, Nerang gokartinggoldcoast.com.au Slideways Go Karting Gold Coast is a multilevel indoor go karting track, catering for drivers from ages 3 to 83. The K’Indy Track is designed for kids aged 3 to 6 (maximum height 90cm, 30kg weight). These little cars can even be remote control driven by a parent if the driver isn’t confident behind the wheel. And for the older ones, there are the Cadet Karts (for ages 7+). If you want to drive together, you can find dual karts at the sister track in Pimpamav(passenger of 4+, and driver being 18+).

CLASSIFIEDS WITTACORK FARMSTAY

W: wittacork.com.au P: (07) 5494 4369 A: 286 Tesch Rd, Maleny

Stay on a real working dairy farm!

With 150 acres of pristine rainforest to explore, guests can milk a cow, feed calves, goats, pigs and chickens and collect eggs. Our self-contained 2 and 3 bedroom cottages are set on a ridge overlooking Lake Baroon and the Kondalilla National Park.

We now also do led pony rides!

QUEENSLAND AIR MUSEUM

W: qam.com.au P: (07) 5492 5930 A: 7 Pathfinder Drive, Caloundra. Queensland 4551

STRUCKET STRAINER MEETS BUCKET W: strucket.com E: hello@strucket.com

Spawned from a single moment of desperation, Strucket is the world’s first integrated Strainer Bucket with plug, invented by Sunshine Coast mother, Kelly. Just like a normal bucket (but better), the Strucket makes soaking simple and clean. Never fear putting your hand into the residual dirty, unhygienic, toxic mess again.

Taking the strain out of soaking!

LITTLE STRAWBERRIES

W: littlestrawberries.com.au IG: @littlestrawberries_au E: frais@littlestrawberries.com.au We sell reusable products that help families reduce their household waste including reusable coffee cups, reusable nursing pads, wet bags, change mats, reusable swimming nappies and modern cloth nappies.

All products are available through our online store with a FREE local pick up option.

Looking for somewhere to take the kids, get them away from the small screen and keep them entertained for hours? Queensland Air Museum has more than 80 historically significant aircraft and many other aviation related displays, the best aircraft model shop on the Sunshine Coast, coffee, drinks and ice-creams.

It's a great day out for the family!

Natural & Organic Skincare

• No toxic chemicals • No animal testing • Recyclable packaging • Supporting children with Down Syndrome • Happiness guaranteed

P: 0499453294 E: info@missmagoos.com.au W: missmagoos.com.au Gentle on your family’s skin, the planet, and your wallet.

GDL NATURE PLAY SPACES

W: gdlnatureplacespaces.com.au P: 0410 863 756 Sunshine Coast/Gold Coast/Brisbane Specialists in the design and construction of nature-based play spaces. We can offer custom-made spaces that bring your ideas to life.

From early learning centres, schools, public spaces and private.

We use our concept plans, work closely with you and gain inspiration from the children’s ideas to bring the best possible solutions to your space and budget.

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FUNKY MONKEY BARS

W: funkymonkeybars.com P: 1300 912 198 FB: @funkymonkeybars

Australian-made Funky Monkey Bars are getting kids outdoors on play equipment that’s challenging and fun. Free-standing, height adjustable and modular designs that you customise and accessorise to suit your family, then continue to add to over time. Choose from 16 frames in nine colours and have delivered direct to your door.

Exclusive 15% OFF Use code KOTC15

W: rainbowfun.com.au Online and in-store P: 0456 239 966 A: Shop 2, 16 Sunshine Beach Road, Noosa Heads RAINBOW FUN is a leading children’s toy and gift store that stocks a beautiful hand-selected range of some of the best brands in wooden toys, eco-friendly toys, educational toys, games, puzzles, craft activities, imaginative and role play toys from around the globe.

There’s something for everyone – from tiny newborns to quirky teens.

Visit us in Noosa or shop online!

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

AS

WILDAS

LIFeGETS

2018 QUEENSLAND

GOLD WINNER

Crikey! Australia Zoo is Queensland’s Top Tourist Attraction 2018!

australiazoo.com.au

5307

Open daily 9:00am - 5:00pm (Closed Christmas Day) Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, Sunshine Coast, Queensland

VEGETARIAN EGG TACOS Packed with nutrients and vitamins, these delicious egg tacos are a fun hands-on dinner and an easy way to introduce a little flavour to your meals.

Preparation time: 15 mins Cooking time: 10 mins Serves: 4 INGREDIENTS

6 eggs ½ cup light cooking cream 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small red onion, finely diced ¼ cup finely diced green capsicum 2 small tomatoes, seeds removed, finely diced 8 mini stand ‘n’ stuff taco shells 8 small baby cos lettuce leaves 1 avocado, finely diced ¼ cup light sour cream ¼ cup grated tasty cheese

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METHOD

• Break eggs into a bowl. Add cream, salt and white pepper. Set aside.

• Heat oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.

Add onion and capsicum and cook for 3 minutes or until softened. Stir through tomato. Add egg mixture and cook for 2 minutes or until beginning to set.

Gently stir. Cook for 1 minute and stir again or until egg is just set.

• Heat taco shells following packet directions.

• Place warmed taco shells onto a platter. Fill with lettuce, egg mixture, diced avocado, sour cream and cheese.

Tip Y O U C A N S WA P O U T T H E TA C O S H E L L S F O R B U R R I T O W R A P S O R S O F T-S H E L L TA C O S . F O R A L I G H T E R L O W E R-C A R B V E R S I O N , S I M P LY S E R V E I N L A R G E COS LETTUCE CUPS.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Your daughter’s future is important St Hilda’s School provides an outstanding environment for girls’ education delivering the highest standards in teaching and pastoral care.

Register for one of our upcoming open days and see first-hand why girls from Pre-Prep to Year 12 flourish at St Hilda’s.

• Whole School Open Day – Friday 9 August 2019 • Junior School Open Day – Friday 18 October 2019

RSVPs are essential. Please contact enrolments@sthildas.qld.edu.au or 07 5577 7232 for further information.

LOVE

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COMPASSION

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FORGIVENESS

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HOPE

|

GRACE

OPEN 7 DAYSK! A WEE Kids can play and make friends Supervised play area for children aged 3 to 12 years.

FACILITIES INCLUDE: ● ● ● ● ● ●

Rock-climbing wall Mini basketball court PlayStations Theatrettes showing movies Home corner play area Drawing tables

Starting from $3.50 for 1-hour!

To book or Contact us (07) 5532 1155

Terms and conditions apply. Bookings recommended.

For more information and opening hours visit southportsharks.com.au