ISSUE 20 November/December 2016 BRISBANE
www.kidsinthecity.com.au
FREE TO TAKE HOME
Local issue the
Take a Staycation! LOVING Queensland holidays
Local mumpreneurs Create a MAGICAL woodland party
What IS Montessori? Unravelling the mystery
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[WELCOME]
[CONTENTS]
Kaia, 7 years
Lottie, 5 years
Hi everyone! I’m sure you’ll all agree, there’s something truly special about this little corner of the world in which we live. It’s not just the beautiful beaches, the amazing weather, the great entertainment, and the yummo dining on offer (though these things help a lot!). It’s the community that exists here: the mumpreneurs running their home businesses from the kitchen table, the neighbourhood cafes serving only locally grown foods, the markets teeming with unique products from regional artisans and growers, and the real sense of village around you as you raise your little ones. And so, to celebrate our amazing little pocket of paradise, this issue we are all about living LOCAL. Making the most of living in a holiday destination, we have a huge feature on taking a family staycation, with the many ways to enjoy some much needed R&R, right on your doorstep. Our Education section takes a look at the increasingly popular International Baccalaureate programme, and some of the Queensland schools now offering this worldclass education opportunity. And we also delve into the mystery of Montessori, to unravel this peaceful pedagogy. With Christmas just around the corner, an amazingly talented group of local mumpreneurs creates a magical woodland children’s party, and they share their secrets on successful party planning this festive season. And we have a bumper Check This Out section, featuring a bounty of locally produced gifts to fill your Santa sacks. And with all the latest events, news and reviews, we have your LOCAL summer covered! To keep up to date with all the school holiday activities on offer over the summer, don’t forget to sign up to our weekly What’s On newsletter at www.kidsinthecity.com.au. And, as always, if you have a story to share or feedback on the issue, just drop me a line at editor@mothergoosemedia. com.au. I’d love to hear from you! Happy summer! Angela Sutherland, Editor
Balloons supplied by Ruby Rabbit Partyware www.rubyrabbit.com.au
3 FROM THE EDITOR
20 EDUCATION: Unravelling the mystery
4 WHAT’S ON: All your local events for
of Montessori 22 EDUCATION: World-class education
November and December 6 SOCIAL: What's trending on our social pages 8 WHAT’S NEWS: The latest news in
with the International Baccalaurreate 26 PARTY: Local mumpreneurs creating woodland magic together
your area 10 NOTICEBOARD: All the news and achievements from our local schools 12 FEATURE: Having a family staycation!
30 LOCAL LIFE: Success for Scott Millar 32 WEB WRAP UP: The latest from online 33 REVIEWS: Movies, books and apps
18 CHECK THIS OUT: Shop local this Christmas with these seriously cool products
34 TALK: Surviving school holidays in paradise
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Kerry White, Rebecca Grugan, Trisha Valentine, Chevaune Hindley COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Verve Portraits Printed with vegetable/soy based inks on paper supplied using pulp sourced from sustainable forests and manufactured to environmentally accredited systems. 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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WHAT'S ON Visit ou r website to see more events!
DON'T MISS OUT ON ANY EVENTS! Sign up at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au or www.kidsonthecity.com.au for our weekly What’s On guide.
NOVEMBER 11 ONE MILLION STARS JAM SESSION Held every second Friday at Upper Coomera Library, traditional weaving techniques will be taught to make beautiful stars! By contributing these stars to the Million Stars project they will help end violence and feature at the Commonwealth Games 2018. www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/library
NOVEMBER 25 TO 12 FEBRUARY 2017 MATILDA THE MUSICAL This multi-award winning musical is the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. www.qpac.com.au
DECEMBER 10 LORD MAYOR’S CHRISTMAS CAROLS Gather your friends and family together for this spectacular free event and celebrate the festive season by singing along to all the traditional Christmas tunes by candlelight! www.christmascountdown.com.au
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For a memorable outing, bring the children to Shingle Inn City Hall for a special kids High Tea, while adults can indulge in either a tea, coffee or glass of Australian sparkling or champagne. www.shingleinncityhall.com/events/littlies
Parents can enjoy breakfast on the waterfront while watching the kids sail in front of the club, as a perfect introduction into sailing for kids aged from 7–16 years old. Held at SYC all year round. www.southportyachtclub.com.au
NOVEMBER 11 TO 13 BONJOUR FRENCH FESTIVAL The Festival will be celebrated over two days and nights, providing a rich cultural experience to the attendees. The entertainment will cover activities related to French Cuisine, arts & crafts, history, music, educational activities and sports. www.bonjourfrenchfestival.com.au
NOVEMBER 29 TO 18 DECEMBER THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW This Australian-made show will excite, educate and entertain new readers and first time theatre goers, while those who grew up with the books will delight in experiencing one of the most popular children’s books ever written. www.qpac.com.au
DECEMBER 10 GIGGLE AND HOOT’S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS It’s Christmas time in the land of Giggle and Hoot and everybody is busy getting ready for the arrival of Hootoclaws for his special Christmas Night Watch! www.qpac.com.au
Shopping for gifts, souvenirs, art, craft, the ingenious, the weird and the wonderful, has never been easier. Held in Broadbeach, Burleigh and Coolangatta this market is large, colourful and a-buzz with atmosphere, boasting over 150 stalls showcasing the best and most original of Australian-made products. www.artandcraft.com.au
TOP 5 SECRET SWIMMING HOLES Enoggera Reservoir Tallebudgeera Creek Currumbin Valley Rock Pools Creek Falls and Rock Pools Froggy's Beach
DECEMBER 12-16 KIDS ON THE COAST / KIDS IN THE CITY
VERTEC ADVENTURE SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMP A fun, hands on camping adventure where kids will develop skills in leadership, team building, and confidence. Enjoy archery, bush crafts, mountain biking, abseiling, survivor challenges and more! www.kidsadventure.camp
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DAILY INK REMIX FOR KIDS The first exhibition in Australia to explore the exciting new developments in ink art. Have fun exploring Ink Remix with the activity booklet full of challenges and discoveries for children. Suitable for children aged 4-12. www.museumofbrisbane.com.au
DECEMBER 10 BROADBEACH CHRISTMAS CAROLS Enjoy a free afternoon jam-packed with kids activities and incredible entertainment filled with Christmas spirit and joy. Then sing along to all your favourite carols with an amazing line up of performers, concluding with a spectacular fireworks display! www.broadbeachgc.com
DECEMBER 26 - 26 JANUARY DAY OUT WITH THOMAS Every year Thomas The Tank Engine and friends make their annual pilgrimage down under to the Workshops Rail Museum, bringing old favourite characters and a different set of themed activities to excited young fans. www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au
* 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
Book a flying session and experience the state-ofthe-art indoor skydive centres aimed to share the beauty and freedom of flight with everyone. www.downunder.iflyworld.com/goldcoast
WEEKLY SOUTH PORT YACHT CLUB
Image courtesy: Tourism and Events Queensland
DAILY IFLY INDOOR SKYDIVING
NOVEMBER 7 & DECEMBER 5 LITTLIES HIGH TEA
FEATURED MARKET SUNDAYS ARTS & CRAFTS ON THE COAST
One of the most read and famous children’s books of all time, The Very Hungry Caterpillar emerges off the page in a delightful theatrical experience for the whole family.
QPAC presents
Ages 2+
29 NOVEMBER – 18 DECEMBER 2016 BOOK NOW QPAC.COM.AU/SUMMER I 136 246
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Visit westfield.com.au/Helensvale to find out what’s on!
H E L E N SVA L E
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Join a tiny snail on her trip around the world in a charming, live on stage adaptation of the modern classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
LIVE ON STAGE! Ages 4+
6 – 22 January 2017 BOOK NOW QPAC.COM.AU/SUMMER | 136 246 Presented by QPAC in association with Tall Stories
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Stay up to date with your local community news. If you have any unique news that you’d like to share, please contact our editor at editor@mothergoosemedia.com.au
Whats news » Visit our website for more news
PANCAKES ON THE ROCKS
Pancake lovers flipped out recently when a huge 4 metre 3D chalk art stack of pancakes appeared on the Soul Boardwalk at Surfers Paradise. Those with a sweet tooth batter(ed) more than an eyelid and jumped at the chance to have their photos taken atop the artwork, which was the brainchild of local restaurant Pancakes on the Rocks (www.pancakesontherocks.com.au). To read more about the artists who created the artwork, visit www.zestevents.com.au. The queues were stacked… (sorry).
VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR CRAWLS BACK TO BRISBANE
One of the world’s best loved children’s characters is set for the stage this summer, as The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show returns to Brisbane. A delightful theatrical experience for the whole family, the show will journey through Eric Carle’s incredible stories as they come to life on stage. As well as The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the show will feature a menagerie of more than 70 enchanting puppets, from three other Eric Carle books: The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, Mister Seahorse, and The Very Lonely Firefly. The show is suitable for those aged two plus and will run from November 29 to December 18 at QPAC. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.qpac.com.au.
EXPERTS SAY ‘NO NEED TO BURP YOUR BABY’
Experts are telling mothers that it might not be necessary to burp your baby, following research conducted by the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research in Chandigarh, India Researcher and mother, Bhavneet Bharti, who found it hard to burp her baby, conducted a study on 71 babies. She and her team found that burped babies spit up more than those who aren’t burped. Burped babies spit up around eight times a week, and those that aren’t burped only spit up around half as much. They also found that burped babies don’t cry less than those that aren’t burped. To see the full results of the study, visit http://onlinelibrary. wiley.com/doi/10.1111/cch.12166/abstract. 8
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FUNDING BOOST FOR EARLY DETECTION OF CEREBRAL PALSY A research project that aims to detect cerebral palsy in infants has received a $1.5 million boost.
DID YOU
KNOW The longest ever recorded flight by a chicken is
13 seconds
QUEENSLAND HAS OVER 200 NATIONAL PARKS ON AVERAGE, CATS WILL SPEND
66%
OF THEIR LIFE
ASLEEP
The most often played board game in the world is Monopoly THERE ARE
200 MILLION
COWS IN INDIA kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au
The project, run by the University of Queensland, is hoping to develop new ‘toolboxes’ of biological and clinical markers to detect the condition earlier. Minister for innovation, science and the digital economy Leeanne Enoch, said: “About 600 to 700 babies are born with cerebral palsy in Australia every year. Pre-term babies are at a higher risk of developing the condition. If you can detect cerebral palsy early, then you can fast-track early intervention programs.” At the moment, children with cerebral palsy aren’t diagnosed with the condition until they are in their second year, which can result in late referral to intervention. “The first two years of life are a period of rapid neural change so early detection is critical if we are to improve the health and well-being of these children as they grow up,” Ms Enoch said. The Minister said Professor Roslyn Boyd, who is one of Australia’s foremost authorities on cerebral palsy and is leading the study, was already making great strides with older children in managing the condition.
‘RED HAIR’ TAUNTS ENCOURAGE MUM TO WRITE BOOK A mother from Queensland who was fed up of children taunting her 18-month-old son because he had red hair has written a book about him.
Melissa Giret, author of Roman Has Red Hair, said she wrote the book to help red headed children come up with ways to cope with people commenting on their hair. She told The ABC: "It's going to help little kids who maybe suffer from bullying, whether it's because of their hair or some other physical attribute." Ms Giret, from the Sunshine Coast, has sent the draft to publishers but is hoping she will be able to self-publish the book with the help of funding through GoFundMe. To find out more visit www.gofundme.com/2o09aes.
Enjoy Australia’s most extensive free, festive program as Christmas in Brisbane returns to South Bank Parklands, Roma Street Parkland and the City. Gather friends and family, young and old, for dazzling fireworks, joyous carols, enchanting light displays, outdoor cinemas and plenty more – there’s something for everyone!!
25 NOVEMBER–24 DECEMBER CHRISTMASINBRISBANE.COM.AU | #CHRISTMASINBRISBANE
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Do you have a story to share? Email your school's news to editor@mothergoosemedia.com.au
NOTICE BOARD All the news and achievements from ou r local schools
HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS GET TO ‘TRY A TRADE’ Fifty high school girls got to ‘Try a Trade for a Day’ at an event held at TAFE Gold Coast recently. Exclusively for girls from Years 10, 11 and 12, the event provided advice and tips for those thinking about entering trades such as painting, bricklaying, tiling, shop fitting and horticulture. Before the event, Beryl Compton from Miami State High School said: “I am highly considering a career in wet trades such as bricklaying and I am looking forward to talking to teachers about the training and job opportunities at the Try a Trade Day.” TAFE Queensland Gold Coast general manager said: "We aim to ensure that young females wanting a trade career feel supported in their search for an apprenticeship. In our endeavour to achieve this goal we decided to launch the girls only 'Try a Trade Day' to inspire more young females to take up a trade career by providing them with hands on experience across various trades.
PIMPAMA’S ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT WINS AWARD Pimpama State Secondary College’s Jump Start Program has won a Good Design Award. The program offers a 12-week intensive and semiintensive mode, where high school students tackle real-world problems and respond with enterprising solutions. The awards, for design, innovation and creativity at a national and international level, recognised the school’s success in building entrepreneurial skills among its students. “The Jump Start Program ignites a passion in students, allowing them to question what success means for them and then through individual and team work, act upon their personal goals and objectives,” said the school’s head of department creative industries, Adam Jefford. “Students are challenged to embrace risk and failure, and confidently respond to community problems by creating social enterprises, products or services that create positive impact,” he added. 10
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More than 120 students have taken part in the program so far, coming up with innovative social enterprise solutions such as zero waste school communities and e-waste gaming workshops. They have also partnered with industry specialists to manufacture an environmentally-friendly surfboard fin made from ocean waste.
TIME CAPSULE DISCOVERED IN SOUTHPORT SCHOOL SITE A time capsule has been unearthed during the demolition of the Star of the Sea Catholic School in Southport. The capsule was buried in 1988 and it was hoped that it would be sealed until 2088. It was opened by mayor Tom Tate, councillor Dawn Crichlow and two former students of the school, Helen Wood and Fiona Franke. It contained currency and photos of fashion at the time, poems, a school uniform, letters, a rosary and chalk. The time capsule will be resealed and placed in another location in Southport. kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au
"This event is a valuable opportunity for young women, in a specially designed girls only environment, to find out if they have a flair for a trade that may not have otherwise considered," she added.
OLIVIA’S LITTLEBIGIDEA COULD HELP HOMELESS PEOPLE St Hilda’s student Olivia Maddison has invented a vending machine for homeless people. Olivia, who is in Year 4, came up with the idea after seeing a group of homeless people camping out by a machine that dispensed thongs on the Gold Coast. She told The Gold Coast Bulletin: “I felt sorry for them. I think they deserve better.” She told the paper that the vending machine she has invented would contain items such as clothes, shoes, food and toiletries and would be dispensed by inserting a pin number or swipe card given out by charities that help the homeless. Olivia has sent the idea in to Origin’s littleBIGidea, a competition for budding inventors from Years 3 to 8. First prize includes a trip to the US for three winners and a parent to visit the NASA Kennedy Space Centre, Disneyworld and Ripley's Believe It or Not. To find out more about the competition, visit www.littlebigidea.com.au.
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Family staycation [FEATURE]
HAVING A
by KERRY WHITE
AS WE COME INTO SUMMER, YOU MIGHT BE PLANNING YOUR NEXT FAMILY HOLIDAY. HOW ABOUT A PLACE THAT OFFERS THE BEST BEACHES, GREAT ADVENTURES, TIP-TOP ACCOMMODATION, SUPERB FOOD, FANTASTIC WEATHER AND MUCH, MUCH MORE? SOUND LIKE THE PERFECT PLACE FOR YOU? IT IS! AND IT’S CALLED SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND! WE BRING YOU THE BEST FROM OUR CORNER OF THE WORLD SO YOU CAN ENJOY A FAMILY STAYCATION THE WHOLE FAMILY WILL ENJOY. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
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[FEATURE]
BEST
Adventure
Holidays are the perfect time to try something a little bit different, even if it is on your doorstep. Take the plunge and try stand-up paddle boarding (see www.oceanaddicts.com.au or http://goldcoastsup.com.au), hire a boat (see www.swanboathire. com.au or http://brisbaneboathire.com.au), or try your hand at tennis (see hotshots.tennis.com.au) or archery (see www.goldcoastarchery. com). Here are some other ideas.
TRY A KAYAK TOUR OF THE NOOSA EVERGLADES Kanu Kapers offers guided or self-guided kayaking adventures in the Noosa Everglades. You can choose a half-day guided tour suitable for all levels of fitness, or a longer tour (up to three days) that includes camping beside the Noosa River. More seasoned kayakers can opt for a self-guided three-day experience, allowing you to take things at your own pace and choose where to camp. Half-day guided tours cost $155 for adults and $80 for children (16 and under). The cost for a family (two adults and two children) is $450. The self-guided three-day tour costs $175 per person, plus $15 each for the camping permit and fees, or $680, plus camping fees, for two adults and two children. Visit www.kanukapersaustralia.com for details.
CLIMB MOUNT COOLUM Mount Coolum stands 208 metres high and offers spectacular views of the coast… once you reach its summit. But the walk is surprisingly easy and there are lots of areas to rest on the way up. A gorgeous little smoothie bar awaits you in the car park off Jarnahill Drive when you’ve made your way back down, or take a picnic and enjoy it atop the 26 million year old volcanic dome. Visit www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/mount-coolum.
Images courtesy: Tourism and Events Queensland
TAKE TO THE TREES Unleash your inner daredevil with a visit to Australia's first adventure theme park in the trees. The adventure park has two locations, Mount Tamborine and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. At Mount Tamborine you can enjoy Australia's largest guided zip line tour with over 100 TreeTop Challenges spread over six courses. At Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, 80 amazing TreeTop Challenges await you, with 12 massive ziplines, including the huge Croc Shock course where you (literally) ride flying foxes over crocodiles! Adult tickets cost $49 and children’s tickets (14 and under) cost $39. Find out more at www.treetopchallenge.com.au.
SNORKELLING SPOTS Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island Cook Island, Coolangatta, Gold Coast Flinders Reef, Moreton Island North Stradbroke Island, Brisbane Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast
DO FRASER ISLAND'S GREAT WALK Fraser Island is a World Heritage site known for its natural beauty and pristine white beaches. It is Queensland’s largest island and home to an abundance of wildlife including dingoes, rays, dolphins, sharks and whales (in the spring). Take it all in at your own pace by doing the island’s Great Walk. It is 90km long and will take about eight days to complete, or you can just pick a section you’d like to explore for a shorter hike. A whole range of campsites are available en route. See www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/fraser/pdf/fraser-islandvisitorguide.pdf for more information.
FLY IN A SEAPLANE We all know we live in a pretty special place, but have you even seen it from the air? Take a different view of the coast with a ride on a seaplane. Flights cost from $149 a person for a bird’s-eye view over Mooloolaba and Point Cartwright and longer flights are available all the way up to Double Island Point. Flights depart from the Maroochy River. See www.paradiseseaplanes.com.au for details.
GO SANDBOARDING Moreton Island is home to the world’s tallest coastal sand dune, making it the perfect spot to try your hand at sandboarding. You can reach speeds of 60 km/h as you make your way to the bottom! Find out more at www.moretonislandadventures.com.au/playingthere/sandboarding/.
GO HORSE RIDING ON THE BEACH If you have horse-mad children then you have to put this one on your to do list. Take in the stunning surrounds of the Noosa North Shore as you ride along the beach. There are horses for all levels, but children must be over the age of nine and fairly confident on a horse to take part. Rides start from $155 for two hours and a maximum of two riders are allowed. See www.noosahorses.com.au/beach-rides for details and to book.
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Best days out FIND OUR REGION'S 'BIG THINGS'
Yep, it seems tourists can’t get enough of our ‘big things’, and who are we to judge? Make a fun day trip out of a tour round these icons of South East Queensland. Try and tick these ones off your list (and don’t forget the obligatory selfie): Big Boot, Gympie Road, Chermside Big Pineapple, Nambour Connection Road, Woombye Big Cow, Ayrshire Road, Kulangoor Big Pelican, Gympie Terrace, Noosaville Big Kangaroo, Kybong Service Station, Bruce Highway Big Ned Kelly, Gympie Road, Maryborough
WATCH A SHOW AT POMONA'S MAJESTIC THEATRE Established in 1921, the Majestic Theatre is Queensland’s longest continuously operating picture theatre and the oldest authentic silent movie theatre in the world. The wonderfully quaint theatre still hosts plays, silent films and musical acts and there is a restaurant that operates during shows. For a list of upcoming performances, visit www.themajestictheatre.com.au.
PAINT YOUR OWN CERAMIC MASTERPIECE Don’t let a drop of rain spoil a day of your holiday. Head inside for some fun at Colour My Pot in Cleveland. You can select from a wide range of pottery pieces to paint any way you like. Then it is glazed and fired, ready for collection a week later. Pieces start from $5 and a daily studio fee of $9 per painter applies. Find out more at www.colourmypot.com.
BEENLEIGH HISTORICAL VILLAGE AND MUSEUM Forget the stresses of modern life and take a trip back in time at the Beenleigh Historical Village and Museum. Browse the early Australia memorabilia and explore the 20 historical buildings which have been lovingly preserved and restored, each one filled with original items from the 1860s onwards. The buildings include the St George Anglican Church, The Beenleigh Council Chambers, Willkie’s General Store, the old Dodge fire engines, family homes, the Loganholme One Teacher School and the Post Office. Finish the day with a walk round the onsite art gallery and enjoy a bite to eat at the café. Tickets cost $8 for adults and $4 for children. See http://beenleighhistoricalvillage.com.au for details.
TOUR THE WAX MUSEUM Have your photo taken with Kylie, shake hands with John Howard and then say ‘G’day’ to Crocodile Dundee—all in one day! Head to the Wax Museum in Surfers Paradise for a taste of the bizarre as you come face-to-face with life-size wax models of your favourite— and not so favourite—celebrities, royals, presidents and influential figures from history. See www.waxmuseum.com.au for details.
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WILDLIFE DESTINATIONS Queensland Zoo // www.whqzoo.com Australia Zoo // www.australiazoo.com.au Underwater World SEALIFE Mooloolaba // www.underwaterworld.com.au Currumbin Wildlife // www.cws.org.au Lone Pine Koala // www.koala.net SeaWorld // www.seaworld.com.au
Images courtesy: Tourism and Events Queensland
BEST
[FEATURE]
BROWSE BRISBANE'S MUSEUMS For a truly cultural day out, the Queensland Museum (www.qm.qld.gov.au) is the perfect starting point. A mix of permanent and changing exhibits the museum covers natural history, cultural heritage, science and human achievement. After you have finished exploring there, take a short stroll to the Gallery of Modern Art (www.qagoma.qld.gov.au). The Gallery of Modern Art has a physical space called the Children’s Art Centre which hosts events, workshops, exhibitions and programs for children, including installations by local and international artists. If you have the stamina for one more stop, make it the Queensland Maritime Museum (maritimemuseum.com.au). The museum is home to the HMAS Diamantina, a large World War II frigate you can actually board, and also the heritage listed South Brisbane Dry Dock, one of the last remaining remnants of the colony of Queensland, built in 1876.
TAKE A PITSTOP AT MOUNT MEE Motorheads, this one is for you! Drive out to the scenic Mount Mee, just an hour from the Sunshine Coast, and look out for the awesome collection of motorbikes and cars, with a café tucked behind. The Pitstop Cafe is all about the quirky motorsport memorabilia that decks the walls and is displayed out front, but it also offers good food and fantastic views. It has local crafts and collectibles for sale too. Visit www.pitstoponmtmee.com.au. Walk off your lunch with a trip to the nearby D’Aguilar National Park (www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/daguilar/about.html).
WATCH A MOVIE AT THE DRIVE-IN Fancy a change from your local cinema for your next family movie night? Try the Yatala Drive-in Theatre. It’s a set-up straight out of Grease, with an onsite snack bar modelled on an authentic 1950s American diner serving all your favourite drive-in delicacies: think burgers, hot dogs, hot chips, donuts, popcorn, choc tops and more. You can listen to the movie in the car via the radio, or set up camp next to your vehicle and gaze up at the stars. You can even bring your dog! So, put the kids in their pyjamas and settle in for a drivein movie experience you’ll want to revisit time and again. Tickets cost $14 per adult and $8 per child, with kids under six going free, or get two movies for $9.50 each (per adult) or $6.50 each (per child). See http://yataladrive-in.com.au.
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caldwell family lawyers
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Phone 07 5574 0971 for a free initial consultation
www.caldwellfamilylaw.com.au
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NOV/DEC 2016
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[FEATURE]
FORAGE FOR FREE FOOD The kids will love foraging and it’s a great opportunity to explain about local produce and how it gets from field to plate. If you’re unsure where to start, there are a few websites that can help you locate local produce in your area. Check out Falling Fruit, a global collaborative map of food sources for foragers (https://fallingfruit.org). You can type in your address to find out what is growing near you, or search for a specific food. A foodie from Brisbane has also created a Google map listing the location of fruit trees and herbs in the city and its surrounds. Simply google 'Brisbane Public Harvest' and head to the interactive Google map to find local produce fresh from the trees, perhaps even just down your street! Happy foraging!
RIDE A STEAM TRAIN Tour the operating workshops of a Heritage Railway, test your skill inside a diesel cab simulator, find out more about the people who used to work on the railway, enjoy the largest model railway layout in Queensland and so much more! A trip to the Workshops Rail Museum in Ipswich will keep the family entertained for hours. A family ticket for two adults and up to four children costs $63. Find out more at www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au.
BEST
Music
WOODFORD FOLK FESTIVAL More than 2,000 performers and 438 events make up this music festival, now in its 31st year. The programme features concerts, street theatre, dances, writers’ panels, a film festival, acoustic jams, comedy sessions, debates, folk medicine, an environmental programme featuring talks, films, art and craft workshops, circus performances and workshops, late night cabarets, parades and special events including a spectacular fire event. There is also an entire children’s festival. Campers can relax in the tree-filled campgrounds after a busy day at the festival and the children will enjoy the butterfly walks, ponds and wildlife. The festival runs from December 27 to Jan 1. Tickets with camping cost $713 per adult, $506 for children aged 13 to 17 years and $32 for children aged 6 to 12 years. Children under 6 go free. Find out more at www.woodfordfolkfestival.com.
PEREGIAN ORIGINALS On the second Sunday of every month, the delightfully artsy Peregian Beach becomes host to the Peregian Originals music concert. Featuring local performers playing music from folk to hip hop to rock (and everything in between), this free family-friendly event makes for a great afternoon. Unpack the picnic rug and Esky and settle in for some great entertainment. See www.facebook.com/PeregianOriginals/ for details.
THEME PARKS Aussie World // www.aussieworld.com.au Dreamworld // www.dreamworld.com.au Movie World // www.movieworld.com.au
Images courtesy: Tourism and Events Queensland
Wet 'n' Wild // www.wetnwild.com.au
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WORK FROM
HOME!
Accommodation
While all the activities and great days out we’ve covered here can easily be done in a day, you might be thinking of prolonging your stay to fit in more, or to mix the go, go, go with a bit of R&R. Southern Queensland Tourism has a comprehensive list of accommodation available on the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane—see www.brisbaneairportvic.com.au. Here are some of our favourites.
CLANDULLA COTTAGES AND FARMSTAY Just an hour from Brisbane, or 40 minutes from the Gold Coast, lies the wonderful Clandulla Cottages and Farmstay. Set on a working farm, you are free to join in with the day’s activities, such as collecting the eggs and feeding the animals, or simply explore the tranquil setting at your own pace. They also offer ‘Breakfast with the animals’ and a ‘takeaway’ service, where the kids play and you can relax with a bottle of wine while your wood-fired pizza or fish and chips are prepared. For more details, visit www.clandullacottages.com.au.
THE MOUSES HOUSE RAINFOREST RETREAT, SPRINGBROOK You have to see this place to believe it! Each of the 13 luxury villas are named after Disney princesses or Snow White’s Dwarves and are set in the ‘enchanted rainforest’ of a World Heritage Listed National Park. Relax to the max in the spa bath with views of the forest after a day’s bushwalking and enjoy a visit each night from the resident possums. Visit www.mouseshouse.com.au for more information (and get ready to drool!).
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Sunshine Coast - Brisbane - Gold Coast
SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE
Fill up your holiday calendars … read online
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ESCAPE THE RAT RACE
OAKS OASIS, CALOUNDRA The huge waterpark is the main draw for most of the families that visit Oaks Oasis, but the putt-putt course, sandpit, climbing frame and jumper pillow also guarantee worn out (but happy!) kids at the end of the day. A short walk from the beach, the resort offers apartments and villas and is well placed to enjoy all the attractions on the Sunshine Coast. See www.oakshotelsresorts.com/ oaks-oasis for details.
G ET
Lost
TOD AY...
TURTLE BEACH, MAIN BEACH A resort where kids come first. Jam-packed with a huge selection of facilities for the children including a waterpark, playground, putt-putt course, arcade games room, tennis court and 22-seat cinema, it also has its own kids activity club for ages four to 12. If the kids want to leave the resort (doubtful!), it is a short stroll to the beach. See www.turtlebeach.com.au for more information.
NEED MORE INSPIRATION? CHECK OUT OUR GALLERIES OF THE BEST LOCAL PARKS, PICNIC SPOTS, PLAYGROUNDS, CAMPSITES AND MORE AT WWW.KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU/THINGS-TO-DO/GALLERY
FIND YOURSELF IN A TR ULY
Amazing
PLA CE...
Nestled amongst 400 acres of native Australian bush, right on the doorstep of the Girraween National Park, a stone’s throw away from award winning wineries and restaurants, you can relax and unwind in your private, self-contained, four star AAA rated chalet. A last true haven retreat with a landline in each chalet, but no mobile service, a tv, dvd player and 400+ dvd library, but no tv reception and no internet coverage in your chalet, you can truly leave the world behind. Here at Girraween we strive to make you relax and unwind. www.girraweenlodge.com.au E: info@girraweenlodge.com.au | Ph: 07 4684 5138
GRANITE BELT, QUEENSLAND
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NOV/DEC 2016
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[CHECK THIS OUT]
Shop
local this
Christmas
HAVE A NICE DAY, SUNDAY THE ARK
RRP $149 Sunday the Ark is just one of a range of gorgeously simple toys, produced by a Gold Coast father of two. Using locally supplied, sustainably sourced birch plywood, the unique designs in the Have a Nice Day set are shipped unassembled and kids assemble the pieces to then discover their own adventures. Toys can then be disassembled or left out on display for next time. Low-tech, ingenious and the perfect platform for creative play, find Sunday and other great toys at www.haveaniceday.com.au. WIN YOUR VERY OWN SUNDAY THE ARK! SIMPLY HEAD TO OUR COMPETITIONS PAGE TO GO INTO THE DRAW!
WIN!! PARTY TIME STELLA DRESS
$46.95 We love everything that comes out of Mini Mooches’ doors, but this Party Time Stella Dress is a favourite for the upcoming party season! Handmade and styled on the Sunshine Coast from 100% quality cotton, the criss-cross back pattern and elasticated back is super cool for summer. Find this and more gorgeous local handmade kids clothing at www.minimooches.com.au.
SNUGĂ?POPS COMFORTER
$39.99 On-trend, monochrome comforters for the most stylish of babies, made from 100% GOTS organic fabric, 100% GOTS organic filling, and using 100% GOTS organic approved water based inks. Based on the Gold Coast, these beautifully designed, super-soft comforters are the perfect bestie for the fashionably inclined. Find at www.snugipops.com.
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BEAN&DOE 'THE KNOXIE' TRAVEL CHAIR
$72 Out and about over the Christmas break? This bold strip travel chair will be your favourite accessory! Perfect for when there is no high chair, it fits on a standard chair (and even in a shopping trolley!) to secure your baby. Better still, it folds up into a clutch, making it simple to take with you wherever you go! Made on the Gold Coast you can find at www.beananddoe.bigcartel.com.
[CHECK THIS OUT]
CLASSIC LETTERBOX
$99 This classic letterbox from House of Cherub is a super-cute way for your whole family to send and receive mail at home. A letter to Grandma, a note for Santa, or a message from your pet, imagination, creativity and fun can be delivered in every letter! Locally based on the Sunshine Coast, you can find them at www.houseofcherub.bigcartel.com.
WIN!! XANDER-LION BLANKET
ONE.CHEW.THREE MIA SILICONE NECKLACE
$21.95 Baby always chewing on your necklace? This gorgeous silicone necklace is made from high quality food grade silicon beads, free from BPA, cadmium, lead, phylates, PCS and latex. They don’t absorb odour or support the growth of mould, fungus or bacteria. Necklace includes a breakaway safety clasp for when the necklace is tugged sharply. The perfect Christmas gift for a new mum! Handmade with love on the Sunshine Coast, you can find at www.onechewthree.com.au.
$129 Meet your perfect first blanket—the fierce but friendly Xander lion designed to protect your little one, day and night. Created with love on the Gold Coast, using 100% cotton for the top layer and a black silky soft minky fabric for the back of the you will want to snuggle till your hearts content. The lion will complete any kids room as a blanket or placed on the floor as a feature playmat. Find them at www.xanderloudkids.com. WIN: YOUR VERY OWN XANDER-LION BLANKET! HEAD TO OUR WEBSITE TO ENTER THE DRAW!
LITTLE MACKIE ALPHABET CRAYON SET
$24 A fantastic way to introduce young children to colours and early literacy, these 26 thick and chunky crayons are perfect for little hands that are still developing find motor control. Colourful, fun and handmade by mum of two from the Sunshine Coast, these crayons will make a great Christmas present for young and old! Find at http://littlemackie.bigcartel.com/products.
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NOV/DEC 2016
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[EDUCATION]
UNRAVELLING THE MYSTERY OF MONTESSORI by REBECCA GRUGAN
MONTESSORI. MOST PARENTS MAY HAVE HEARD ABOUT IT, BUT FEW UNDERSTAND WHAT ‘IT’ IS. MONTESSORI IS A PEDAGOGY—A METHOD OF EDUCATION DESIGNED BY DR MARIA MONTESSORI OVER A CENTURY AGO. SHE WAS THE FIRST FEMALE MEDICAL DOCTOR IN ITALY AND OPENED HER FIRST SCHOOL IN 1907. A CONSTRUCTIVIST THEORIST IN HER BELIEFS ON HOW CHILDREN LEARN, MONTESSORI’S ULTIMATE GOAL WAS TO BRING WORLD PEACE THROUGH EDUCATION. There are many myths around this method of education such as ‘it’s the place children can do whatever they like’ or the extreme opposite opinion that ‘it’s too strict and children can’t make a sound’. Montessori is non-denominational, and is practiced in thousands of schools around the world. Nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for three consecutive years, 1949, 1950 and 1951, Maria Jervolino wrote the following in her proposal for the 1951 Noble Peace Prize: “Dr Maria Montessori is universally known for her contribution to the cause of peace and the brotherhood of nations, to which she has dedicated the years of her long and active life, laying the foundations of a true science of peace by means on an innovated form of education”. Originating out of Italy, the Montessori method is holistic in its approach to children’s learning and has a few key points different to what may be considered ‘mainstream’:
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Prepared environment: The classroom is created using child-sized furniture, shelving, trays, utensils and so on. Activities (Jobs) are placed on the shelves and categorised into five curriculum areas: Sensorial, Mathematics, Language, Cultural and Practical Life. Materials: The materials (toys) in the Montessori classroom are carefully designed and created ensuring they have an ‘isolated concept’ and where possible, a ‘control of error’. For example, in the maths work there is equipment called the ‘spindle box’ where its sole purpose is to teach that ‘0’ means nothing. It does this beautifully and simply, ensuring children can understand the concept with no confusion. The goal of having materials do this is so that the child does not require an adult to tell them they are wrong or right, and that the materials do this for them, which allows the intrinsic motivation within the child to develop and shine through.
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[EDUCATION]
Multi-age group settings: This is extremely important for the success of a Montessori classroom and one of the main differences to other pedagogies. Maria Montessori stated that there were four planes of development in a human’s life: 0 to 6, 6 to 12, 12 to 18 and 18 to 24. Within these planes of development are a number of sub-planes, which ultimately form the school classroom groupings: CYCLE 1 (Children’s House): 3 to 6 CYCLE 2 (Lower Primary): 6 to 9 CYCLE 3 (Upper Primary): 9 to 12 CYCLE 4 (Middle School): 12 to 15 CYCLE 5 (Secondary School): 15 to 18 Some of the benefits of this multi-age setting include: • The opportunity for children to learn from one another through observing and interacting. Young children learn higher level cognitive and social skills not only through mental development, but also by observing others as models. • The older children in the classroom are encouraged to give lessons to the younger children, giving the chance for the older child to solidify what they know by teaching it. • It allows for better social development and a greater sense of community. Children who interact with children of different ages build a sense of themselves and build confidence that provides a strong foundation for them as they become adults. • Children work at their own pace and in their own interests, no matter their age or abilities. The sense of inclusion of all children including those with special needs is demonstrated by the threeyear grouping allowing individual development to occur and without judgement on which child is behind and who is ahead. • The curriculum is multidimensional and concrete. The child has the chance to rediscover the materials over time, and have the opportunity to repeat activities, further solidifying their learning but also taking it to another level they may not have been able to a year prior. The three-hour work cycle: Each day the children engage in what is called a ‘work cycle’. This is three hours of uninterrupted time allowing the children to engage in a range of activities which are chosen independently and at times, by the teacher. When given a regular three-hour period, children (and adults) acquire deeper concentration, and a satisfaction within themselves at the completion of the work. The trained teacher: A classroom can be prepared and have all the materials but without a teacher/directress/guide who has the heart and understanding of the philosophy, achieving a successful Montessori classroom is impossible. The trained teacher understands the development of the child and how the materials assist these children and when the right time to introduce new work to them is. Dr Montessori describes a number of ‘sensitive periods’
children go through and developed her materials to support these stages. This is where the deep interest and concentration of the child comes from when they are given the right work at the right time. That is the perfect opportunity for the ‘magic’ to happen. Mrs Stephanie Irvine, AMI trained Directress discovered the Montessori method after a friend told her about it. “I was teaching in mainstream education and after a year of teaching I was ready to stop and change careers. The state school system I was in at the time went against everything I understood about how children learn and what they need from an education system. I was coming home at the end of the day soul crushed and I am sure the children felt the same.” Many teachers feel at ‘home’ when they discover Montessori as it follows and supports the natural development of the child. “Montessori suits children from all backgrounds and walks of life. For some children it can take time to adjust and learn a new way to be self-directed and spontaneous. This takes practice and is an important skill to learn. Montessori is preparing them for life,” states Stephanie. A question many parents have is whether their child could transfer successfully from a Montessori school to mainstream and because of the skills children learn in a Montessori classroom including independence, concentration, resilience, self-direction and confidence, they are able to adapt well in other environments. In Australia, the Montessori movement is largest in the Early Years sector with many Montessori Long Day Care centres and Family Day Care services opening across the country. Di Nitschke, Director of The Hills Montessori in Alexandra Hills, Brisbane explains the exponential growth in the sector: “Parents of today with children under three are more informed and understand the importance of these foundational years more than any other generation before. They want a holistic environment where their child is free to play and follow their interests, where they can connect with nature and learn at their own pace. They want their child to be happy and engaged, and Montessori is the philosophy that gives their child all of this.” Many of today’s parents have to work, so child care is something they have to choose. “In the past Montessori has been too expensive with waitlists of years and years. Due to the demand for Montessori centres, more and more are opening up across the country allowing children from all demographics to have access to this incredible form of education,” said Ms Nitschke. Whether a parent or guardian works, stays at home or something in between, bringing Montessori into the home is not difficult and can make parenting easier, and children happier. For ideas of what can be done at home, visit the informative parenting blog, www.howwemontessori.com.
Rebecca Grugan is Managing Director at I AM Montessori—a Brisbane based company that runs Parent Child Classes, Tutoring sessions, Training and Management of Family Day Care and Long Day Care centres as well as selling all Montessori toys and materials on their website www.iammontessori.com.au.
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NOV/DEC 2016
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[EDUCATION]
WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE by TRISHA VALENTINE
WHEN THE CONVERSATION TURNS AS IT OFTEN DOES TO “WHAT SCHOOL SHOULD I SEND MY SON OR DAUGHTER TO?” PERHAPS, INSTEAD, THE QUESTION COULD BE “WHAT TYPE OF EDUCATION DO I WANT FOR MY CHILD?” Educational offerings come packaged behind wholesome mottos, latest educational trends, catchy phrases and polished publicity, but how do we really choose what is right for our children?
• The Primary Years Programme (PYP) as offered by Good Shepherd Lutheran College is aimed at students three to 12 years old, developing active, caring life-long learners.
Several schools in South East Queensland have looked globally for an answer and now offer a world-class educational opportunity—an internationally valued International Baccalaureate (IB) education.
• The Middle Years Programme (MYP) encourages 11 to 16-year olds to make connections between their studies and the real world.
With challenging educational programmes, a reputation for high academic standards and a set of learning outcomes designed for 21st century needs, an IB education is valued around the world. Mountain Creek State High School (MCHS), Good Shepherd Lutheran College (Noosa), and Somerset College (Gold Coast), are IB World Schools and, after a rigorous authorisation process, have earned the right to offer IB programmes to their school community. Good Shepherd Lutheran College was accredited in 2012 and teaches the Primary Years Programme while MCSHS offers the IB Diploma Programme to Year 11 and 12 students.
WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE? The International Baccalaureate Organisation is a not-for-profit organisation and offers four programmes for schools under its motto “education for a better world”:
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• The IB Diploma is the pre-university programme aimed at Year 11 and Year 12 students. • The Career-Related Programme, introduced in 2012, is aimed at students seeking work and study. Already embracing the move towards international mindedness with its successful International Student Programme, MCSHS started down the IB pathway in 2003 seeking an education programme that was truly international; that would allow students to stand amongst students in UK, Sweden, Canada, China and around the world. The school sought to prepare students for success at university and beyond, for success in the 21st century and beyond. In 2006, the first 42 graduates—the first IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) graduates from a Queensland government school—donned the black academic gown and diploma cap and celebrated in front and family and community. It was the beginning of what has become a point of difference for MCSHS.
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[EDUCATION]
In the IBDP, students are encouraged to develop breadth and depth of knowledge and to flourish physically, emotionally, intellectually and ethically. It is truly international, with a curriculum relevant for and taught around the world in first world cities and rural communities, in private, government funded and not-for-profit schools, across five continents and in over 4,500 schools worldwide. In 2015 over 136,000 students took their Diploma Programme exams with over 2,300 of those in Australian schools. The IB at MCSHS attracts students from our academic junior school Zenith Programme, students from overseas who may not have the opportunity to attend an IB school in their own country, families returning from overseas who may have experienced an IB education, families new to Australia, and also students from the broader Sunshine Coast community. Preparation for the IB pathway begins in Year 10 with a strategically designed year-long programme designed to mirror the IBDP in teaching and learning methodologies and assessment types, while working with students to develop those skills required for success in the Diploma Programme and beyond at university and in life itself.
WHY CHOOSE THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE? Families thinking about having their child take part in the IB programme are often seeking that educational advantage that comes with an international curriculum. They understand the advantage at university of having experience of rigorous external exams, a marking system that seeks the knowledge of subject experts worldwide, and a teaching and learning culture that incorporates the best educational practices from around the world. In addition to the academics, IB programmes encourage inquiry, caring, reflection, ethical consideration, open-mindedness, intercultural understanding, and the development of attitudes necessary to respect and evaluate a range of viewpoints. It is through the core component Creativity Action Service (CAS) that students are really challenged to move outside of their comfort
zone. Being creative, being active and being of service is a core part of the IB Diploma programme. Students take on a service project to develop empathy, and to try to make a difference in areas where they see the need. For example, students this year introduced Living below the Line, an awareness and fundraising programme supported by non-governmental organisation Oaktree to provide educational opportunities for young girls in Cambodia. Another young Year 10 student, after spending three years with her family in Bali, is extending to this community an invitation to help with the building and set up of the Sakti Library in Bali. Over the last three years, Year 11 students have been involved with the Stanley River Environment Centre to monitor water quality and land use in the Somerset Dam, and Stanley and Brisbane Rivers. Over this period of time the students have collected and compared data and engaged with the Jinibara, the indigenous people of this area in an attempt to understand land use, indigenous perspectives and the long history of this land. For six years the school has been involved with Relay for Life—a Cancer Council initiative where students participate in an overnight relay with a moving vigil for survivors and for those who have lost their fight against cancer. Students are also encouraged to get active and their sporting activities, whether school or community based, recreational or representative, are acknowledged and recognised in the Action strand of CAS. These include the student who represented Australia in soccer, and the self-described ‘not the sporty type girl’ who took up tennis for CAS last year and has played for two hours every week since and loves it. The surf-life saver, the long distance swimmer and the dog walker are all setting goals and improving their health and fitness. Likewise, creativity, an attribute so often described as that ‘X-factor’ by CEOs looking to recruit, is encouraged and acknowledged. While that creativity can take the form of playing a musical instrument or learning a new technique in art, is can also lend itself to marketing, creatively solving an issue or creating a service project.
“...IB PROGRAMMES ENCOURAGE INQUIRY, CARING, REFLECTION, ETHICAL CONSIDERATION, OPEN-MINDEDNESS, INTERCULTURAL UNDERSTANDING...”
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[EDUCATION]
“…UNIVERSITIES WORLDWIDE, INCLUDING THE UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND, SEEK ENROLMENT FROM IB STUDENTS AND OFFER OPPORTUNITIES TO ACCELERATE AN IB GRADUATE’S STUDIES.” A TRULY INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE Further, as a commitment to internationalism, language learning and service, the IB faculty is committed to offering students an international travel opportunity each year. At the end of 2015, students and two teachers from MCSHS adventured to Laos and Vietnam on a four week World Challenge, combining a three-day trek up Mount Fansipan with helping to build a facility in a remote rural community in Laos. The students creatively planned and managed everything from the itinerary, to modes of transport and the finances. In September 2016, another hardy crew travelled to Argentina to immerse themselves in the language and culture of Spanish speaking Argentina. Combining some sightseeing including glacier trekking and exploration of the capital Buenos Aires, the major focus of the experience was language and cultural immersion in Cordoba, Argentina’s second city. Here, students attended IB school San Pedro Apostol, home stayed with families from the community and then volunteered in a small rural primary school. A teacher reflected: “When the Australian flag flies beside the Argentinian flag in a rural school in Casa Grande, central Argentina and the sounds of Advance Australia Fair are followed by a resounding chorus of the Argentinian National Anthem; when wideeyed children try their very best ‘my name is…’, then ask ¿Cuál es tu nombre?; when a single rugby ball, a few cups of brightly coloured paints, a meal of empanadas and chorizo sandwiches and a shared rendition of a Beatles classic bring smiles and laughs, you know that young people around the world have more in common than not and therein lies our common humanity.” The IB philosophy permeating through its programmes from PYP and MYP values learning in all its forms: through experimentation, research, exploration, questioning, through experience, discussion and reflection. When an IB student begins an assignment, they begin with a question, their own question. They determine in consultation with their teacher what they want to explore and the direction of their investigation using the methodology of the subject. So a history student may ask, “To what extent was
there a governmental suppression of knowledge regarding the consequences of nuclear testing held at Maralinga from 1955 to 1956?” Furthermore, a maths student might embark on an investigation to determine the effect on the area between the curve, the x-axis and the first two roots when the right-most root is increased by a value of c; A psychology student might consider, “To what extent does the time of day influence an adolescent’s ability to learn?” And in biology, another might question “To what extent do increased concentrations of nitrates in Australian waterways pose a threat to local ecosystems?” MCSHS also offers tuition in Spanish and Japanese but will support students in the development of their mother tongue. To date, students have taken exams in Russian, Dutch, German, French and Chinese. The IB will support registration and offer exams in many languages to encourage students to maintain connection with their mother tongue. At MCSHS, IB classes are run separately to those that cover the Queensland, and soon to be introduced Australian, curriculum. IB teachers teach across both systems but have undergone IB training in their subject areas. The teachers come to the programme with an expertise in their subject area but soon develop the skills required to prepare students for an exam based assessment system and inquiry based learning. Universities in Australia and overseas value IB graduates. The University of Queensland claims that IBDP graduates are “incredibly well prepared for success.” The program’s “international flavour, academic rigour and emphasis on enquiry-based learning means IB graduates will enter university with a global outlook, an excellent work ethic and critical thinking skills”. Consequently universities worldwide, including the University of Queensland, seek enrolment from IB students and offer opportunities to accelerate an IB graduate’s studies. So this year, when IB students graduate and venture into the world, their pathways will be as diverse as their interests and, as we have seen historically, they will seek entry into universities around Australia and, for some, around the world.
Trisha Valentine is head of department/IB co-ordinator at Mountain Creek State High School. To find out more about the school’s IB programme, visit https://mtncreekshs.eq.edu.au.
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GOLD COAST
FREalE
Initi Consultation
INTEREST FREE LOW DEPOSIT Payment Plans
TREATMENT PERFORMED BY QUALIFIED ORTHODONTISTS
Dr Nida Khan BDSc (Hons)(Qld), DClinDent (Ortho) (Adel)
Upper Coomera Robina
55 194 623 55 787 333 55 193 666
Somerset College is proud to be an International Baccalaureate World School.
Developing engaged global citizens aspiring to excellence, demonstrating integrity and valuing difference. For more information please contact Somerset College Admissions on 07 5559 7243 or at admissions@somerset.qld.edu.au. • • •
Primary Years Programme – Pre-Prep to Year 5 Middle Years Programme – Years 6 to 10 Diploma Programme – an option for students in Years 11 and 12
SomerSet College An International Baccalaureate World School Somerset Drive Mudgeeraba Qld 4213 Pre-Prep to Year 12 | 07 5559 7100 | www.somerset.qld.edu.au
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NOV/DEC 2016
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[PARTY]
Local mumpreneurs creating MAGIC together by CHEVAUNE HINDLEY
When we become a parent, particularly a mum, there are a million little shifts that occur in our lives and within ourselves. As a result, we find that new doors open and exciting opportunities present themselves. There is a growing number of mumpreneurs who are seizing these opportunities, with the goal to gain flexibility, additional family income and personal fulfillment. In an effort to extend their reach and build stronger networks, as well as create beautiful things together, these clever, hardworking mums are increasingly coming together to collaborate—pooling their resources to run amazing events that fuel creativity and fulfill personal ambitions, as well as develop truly inspiring support networks.
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A few local mumpreneurs recently did just this, coming together to create a magical styled children’s woodland party, in a bid to show other mums (and dads!) how easy it can be to inject some fun and creativity into their own—and their children’s lives! By pooling available resources on a small budget they put together a party, which was both beautiful and fun for the kids. And with just a bit of thought and preparation (and a rummage through your local op-shop), any mum or dad can do it!
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[PARTY]
Pick a theme First things first, pick a theme and stick to it. This will save you both time and money. By picking a theme, it will allow you to focus your ideas and keep you on track. You can start by asking your child what their favourite thing is to do (since it’s their day), or be led by a gift that they’re receiving. First bike? Make it a bikes and trikes party. All you need then is to seek inspiration on creative websites like Pinterest, and get pinning.
Particularly for kid’s parties, where there are sugarinduced children running amok, it’s definitely a good idea to focus that energy into an activity or craft. At this Woodlands shoot, the children were given decorated boxes and told to ‘forage for forest finds’. Once they had filled their baskets, they could then use their finds to make a framed collage to take home as a keepsake, rather than the traditional lolly-filled bag. Not only does it keep the kids busy, but also the parents will thank you for not sending them home with more sugar.
Craft time
Introduce fancy dress A great idea to unify your party goers and build on your the theme, is to encourage your guests to get on board and dress accordingly. Not only will it enhance the atmosphere, but it will also look great in the photos. Stick a little note on the invitation to ask guests to get involved, and maybe stock up on some extra dress-up props for anyone who may have missed the memo.
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[PARTY]
Get thrifty Kids parties can get quite expensive. Particularly when it comes to parents, whose emotional strings are tugged at and are suddenly purchasing a custom made piñata from Mexico for $200. One of the best things you can do is hit up all of your local thrift stores. You never know what you may find. Ladders, lace curtains, a vintage dresser to use as a candy stall... there are so many possibilities. Warning: If you haven't done this before, it can be slightly addictive! For some further inspiration and thrifty places to shop, here are a few fantastic sites to check out: q pinterest.com q pinkfrosting.com.au q paperdivas.com.au q gumtree.com.au q facebook.com/sunshinecoastbuyswapsell
Easy DIY food There’s no need to fork out hundreds of dollars or spend endless hours in the kitchen, in order to cater food that both looks and tastes great. There are an abundance of no-bake recipes available out there, which you can adapt to your theme and can delegate to family and friends to make for you, on a limited budget.
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No-Bake Chocolate Wands & No-Bake Choco Ingredients
1 block white or milk chocolate (approx 220g) 1 pkt bread sticks Colourful sprinkles or edible glitter
Microwave chocolate in a heat proof bowl until melted, stirring every 30 seconds.
Carefully pour melted chocolate into a high, narrow container or glass.
Dip breadsticks into chocolate to cover approximately half of the bread stick.
Allow chocolate to settle on stick before rolling over a layer of colourful sprinkles.
Allow to set standing up and refrigerate if you want to speed up the process.
Microwave chocolate in a heat proof bowl until melted, stirring every 30 seconds.
Stir in the crunchy noodles and mix until fully coated.
Spoon the mix into patty cases and mould into birds’ nests with the ends of two teaspoons.
Refrigerate for 1 hour.
Fill with your choice of eggs.
Ingredients 1 block white or milk chocolate (approx 220g) 1 pkt original fried noodles (Find in your local supermarket Maltesers / chocolate eggs / M&M’s / jelly beans
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[PARTY]
Create separate areas
Clever mamas Props, styling & styling tips Old.Rope 0423 007 944 www.instagram.com/old.rope Photography & article Chevaune Hindley 0417 673 960 www.chevaunehindley.com Flowers Poppy Lane Flowers By Design 0430 324 004 www.poppylaneflowersbydesign.com.au
This is a tip that works for all types of events, whether it is for a 1st or 50th birthday. By creating separate areas within your venue, you’re allowing moments to happen naturally. A photo booth is a great example of this, or perhaps a craft corner or comfy cushioned tee-pee. It’s an easy way of calming what could possibly be a chaotic few hours. It also allows your guests to entertain themselves with these organised activities, allowing you to focus on being the ‘hostess with the most-ess’.
Kids’ shoes Supplied by Little Treads 07 3379 8696 www.littletreads.com.au Food Styling Lizzy Keim
Outsource
Party planning can be pretty stressful, which is why you need to delegate. Whether it’s enlisting Grandma to bake some of her famous sweets, having Uncle John blow up 60 balloons, or perhaps purchasing pre-made party packs online. Every little job you can delegate or outsource will be giving back time to yourself, so that you can focus on any other tasks at hand.
colate Birds' Nests
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NOV/DEC 2016
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[LOCAL LIFE]
HASH-TAG = SUCCESS FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR Scott Millar AS THE CONVENTIONAL NINE-TO-FIVE WORKING WORLD DISAPPEARS, A NUMBER OF YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ARE TAKING THE WORLD BY STORM. ONE SUCH SUCCESS STORY IS BRISBANE TEENAGER SCOTT MILLAR, WHOSE SCHOOL PROJECT GREW INTO A BOOMING HOLOGRAPHIC PROJECTIONS BUSINESS. WE FIND OUT HOW… Your company, BOP Industries, came about as a result of a school project. Tell us more! BOP Industries began as a part of a Year 9 business venture. In the final term of business studies every year, Year 9 to 12 students form groups and develop a product and business plan and then pitch it to their business teacher for a $100 starting capital. From there, the students run the venture for a term as if it were an actual business, with members responsible for operations, marketing, events, HR and all other areas of the business. My group and I developed an original product ‘Hash-tag Keyrings’. We had a great response, getting orders ranging from single key rings for presents and bags to orders of upwards of 100 for corporate gifts. This was my first taste of running a business and I was hooked, I loved it! After the venture program finished I was looking for work, but finding it hard to fit it in with my already very busy schedule. I also had already heard my peers complaining about annoying hours, being bored with their jobs or having frustrating bosses or co-workers. It was then that I thought back
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to running BOP Industries as part of the venture and about how great it would be to be able to do that for a job. From there I started preparing to take the business outside of school and run it as my own. After getting the rights signed over by the school and the other group members I was ready to start running BOP Industries as a business and have been doing so ever since. What does BOP Industries do? After selling the hash-tags at local markets for a few months I had developed a range of different hash-tag variations such as the rulers and key rings. However, I wanted more of a challenge and I thought the technology space could provide that. In August of last year, I found a very basic form of hologram technology online, just being used as a bit of a party trick, and I was enthralled. I researched the scientific principles behind it and how the holograms worked as well as different variations, so I got an in depth understanding of how the holograms work. I talked to my design teachers at school as to the best way to design and build viable products, and from there we began designing the first hologram product.
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[LOCAL LIFE]
them is really beneficial. They are also able to use the skills they are learning at school, which helps with the real world applications of what we are learning. Being able to do something like run a business also accelerates your learning in the field, which is another massive bonus for people of our age. Where do you see yourself in five years’ time? In five years I will have graduated and I fully intend on running BOP Industries full time. Hologram technology is advancing at such a rapid rate it is hard to tell where it will be in 12 months but wherever it is in the next five years it will be very exciting. I also see both the business and the team continuing to scale, which will be very exciting. We are constantly innovating new products so that will be something else to keep an eye out for, and a very exciting space to watch in the not too distant future.
After a few months of selling the holograms it was evident they were a hit and we began designing new products and expanding our hologram range. We also found a new client base in the events industry as companies were looking to find new and innovative technology for their events to set them apart from the rest, and we found that our holograms filled that need. BOP Industries is now a holographic projections company and our hologram range includes life-size holograms, holographic centre pieces, larger holographic units and a range of other options that are able to be customised for each event. Our holograms also come with custom content so clients are able to get anything they wish displayed in the holograms, from life-sized people, products, logos and anything in between. They are also incredibly popular for centrepieces with company logos, products and table numbers floating in the displays, as well as having speakers appear in a holographic form. Especially handy should the speaker be unable to attend the event. How do you juggle running a business with your school work? Juggling work and school is always a challenge however with the help of my amazing mentors I am able to get excellent results in both areas. My school (Sheldon College) has been incredibly supportive in aiding me in my endeavours and my mentors at Little Tokyo Two are always there to support me. It also helps doing subjects I really enjoy at school as I look forward to them. Also having an amazing group of friends really helps as I know they are always there to support me, and my teachers are incredibly supportive and make sure I keep my marks up as well as keeping everything running smoothly with BOP Industries. You employ some of your school friends. Is it odd telling your friends what to do? It is great to be able to work with my friends as I know they are incredibly competent at what they are doing and their passion is crucial to our success. They are an incredible team and often it is them reminding me what to do and keeping me on track! Like me, they all have incredibly busy schedules so being able to have a flexible job where they can work when it suits
Who inspires you? To name just one person that inspires me would be impossible as I find inspiration every day. My biggest source of business inspiration would definitely have to come from the team at Little Tokyo Two and the members there as well. Everyone in that space are doing such amazing things and I am constantly wowed every time I go in. I will also never fail to admire the work of Richard Branson and his creations at Virgin. The work he has done is phenomenal and starting at such as young age is very inspirational to me and proves that young people can do amazing things too. My friends are also a group that will always keep me inspired and keep me going, whilst all going through their own journeys they persevere, keep smiling and always keep me smiling too if I’m ever feeling down or stressed. What does your family think of your success? My family has been very supportive of me in my endeavours. My father has run his own businesses before so has been a huge help in making sure I am on top of everything and he has been a great mentor. My family are always ready to lend a helping hand too, be it anything from getting me and all the equipment to events, to helping come up with exciting ideas, to even putting together 500 key rings. Their support is invaluable. Do you have any advice for other young entrepreneurs? My advice for any young entrepreneurs would be just to give it a shot. Whilst it might not always be glitz and glam it is an amazing journey and learning experience, and an adventure you will never forget. You will meet some phenomenal people and with determination you will be able to achieve some great things. It is also important to get out there as much as you can and make sure you do everything to the best of your ability. You also need to remember it is okay to make mistakes as that is crucial to your learning. I have already made countless mistakes but each mistake helps you grow and build a better business. Also don’t let anyone tell you you can’t. Just because you may be younger or older or different to everyone else doesn’t mean you can’t do something spectacular and also don’t be afraid to seek help. Whilst it is not for the fainthearted if you are determined and persevere, your hard work will pay off.
To find out more about BOP Industries, you can reach email them at info@bopindustries.com, or visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/bopindustries or website www.bopindustries.com kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au
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Visit ou r website!
Nov/Dec 2016
WEB WRAP UP Here’s what you’ve loved on www.kidsonthecoast.com.au & www.kidsinthecity.com.au
LOCAL 6 STUNNING ISLAND DAY TRIPS IN SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
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PUBLISHER Toni Eggleston
EDUCATION NATURE’S CLASSROOM: THE RISE OF OUTDOOR-BASED EDUCATION
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WELLBEING DOES YOUR CHILD STILL WET THE BED?
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TECH CODING FOR KIDS: BUILD YOUR FIRST COMPUTER GAME
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BABIES HOW CAN I REDUCE THE RISK OF FOOD ALLERGIES IN MY CHILD?
- on the coast
- in the city
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Movies FANTASTIC BEASTS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM
TROLLS
In cinemas November 17. Rating CTC Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them is an all-new adventure returning us to the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling. The story opens in 1926 as Newt Scamander has just completed a global excursion to find and document an extraordinary array of magical creatures. Arriving in New York for a brief stopover, he might have come and gone without incident… were it not for a No-Maj (American for Muggle) named Jacob, a misplaced magical case, and the escape of some of Newt’s fantastic beasts, which could spell trouble for both the wizarding and No-Maj worlds.
Books
In cinemas December 1. Rating CTC From the creators of Shrek comes DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls, a smart, funny and irreverent comedy about the search for happiness, and just how far some will go to get it. This hilarious film transports audiences to a colourful, wondrous world populated by the overly optimistic Trolls, who have a constant dance in their step and a song on their lips.
See Trolls at a special advance screening at Event Cinemas on Sunday 20th November. Foyer fun at 10am and the film is at 10.30am. Tickets are $11* each for Cine Buzz members and are on sale now at eventcinemas.com.au. *+$1.20 online booking fee applies.
A BUG CALLED DOUG Chris Collin & Megan Kitchen
RRP $24.95 (with audio-visual CD) It's Drew's eighth birthday and his best mate Mikey is sleeping over. The boys are having the best day ever, until they discover a hideous monster under the bed! When Mum and sister Daisy get in on the act, pandemonium erupts! But when the panic subsides we discover Doug the Bug isn’t quite as scary as first imagined.
See more and save more with a BCC and Event Cinemas Family Pass, available for some great family films during the school holidays. Check the website during the school holidays for your local BCC or Event Cinemas Family Pass offer. www.eventcinemas.com.au
WIN!!
DISNEY’S MOANA
In cinemas Boxing Day. Rating CTC Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana, which opens in theatres nationwide on December 26 2016, features a dynamic roster of characters brought to life by a talented group of actors. Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, who were behind The Little Mermaid and Aladdin, Moana showcases the life-changing journey of a tenacious 16-year old who teams up with the mighty demigod Maui to fulfill an ancient quest.
See a Charity Advance Screening of Disney’s Moana on Sunday 4th December at all BCC and Event Cinemas. All proceeds go to the Children’s Hospital Foundations Australia. 10.30am fun in the foyer, 11am film commences. All tickets are $12. Tickets go on sale on October 18 at the box office or online at eventcinemas.com.au
apps
BECOMING AURORA Elizabeth Kasmer. RRP $19.95 Sixteen-year-old Rory is in trouble. It’s not that she’s fallen in with the wrong crowd, her friends aren’t who they used to be. Directionless, they vent their frustration by trying to start a war with the local immigrant community. Can Rory find a way through her prejudices? And can she become the girl her dad called Aurora? Researched and inspired by a news report of a racist attack on a Brisbane restaurant, Becoming Aurora is a nuanced portrayal of tensions in a small town and the first young adult work to win the Queensland Literary Awards Best Emerging Author prize since it was established in 1999.
CHATBOOKS
For the busy parent who never has time to sort their photos, Chatbooks is a phone-based app that automatically creates and ships a high quality photo book to you every time you add 64 photos to Instagram, Facebook, or to your phone favourites. The app even includes the dates and captions in the book. It takes just 30 seconds to set up, and you only need to set up once. For those who do like to edit their photos, Chatbooks will notify you before the order goes ahead, so you have time to change the book, if you want to. And if you prefer to create your own, you can also just create a single Custom Chatbook, using whatever photos you choose.
This delightfully Australian story teaches us all a gentle lesson about preconceived ideas. Published by Sunshine Coast author Chris Collin and Megan Kitchin (illustrator), A Bug Called Doug is a bestseller in Australia, is Long Listed in the 2015-16 ISLN (International School Library Network) Red Dot Awards, and is also on the 2014 QLD Premiers Challenge Book List.
Providing a way of storing treasured memories in a format where everyone can look back at and share is a genius solution to the digital chaos that often ensues after having children. For a full review, including a chance to check out the hilarious Chatbooks video, head to our website!
WIN your own copy of A Bug Called Doug! Head to our website for your chance to win!
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[TALK]
SURVIVING SCH OL HOLIDAYS…
in paradise
LET’S BE HONEST, WE SHOULD BE PRETTY PROUD OF WHERE WE LIVE. BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, AMAZING OUTDOOR ADVENTURES, PARKS, MUSEUMS, SHOPPING, AND ENDLESS SUNSHINE. YES, OUR LITTLE POCKET OF PARADISE REALLY IS A HOLIDAY MECCA. YET, DESPITE THAT, SCHOOL HOLIDAYS STILL CREATE A SIZEABLE SLICE OF DREAD IN MANY HOUSEHOLDS. HOW WILL WE COUNTER-ATTACK THE INEVITABLE SCREEN-TIME PLEADING? DO I REALLY WANT TO MANAGE MULTIPLE KIDS AROUND A BUSY THEME PARK? AND CAN MY NERVES TOLERATE THE INEVITABLE TANTRUMS THAT WILL RAGE WHEN IT IS TIME TO LEAVE THE BEACH? Yes, although our sunny corner of Queensland is a heavenly place to live, school holidays are often just another tough day of parenting, and no amount of sandcastles will offset the inevitable toddler battles. So, with the eight-week break looming six local parents share their secrets on how they plan on surviving the long school holidays in paradise!
Keira,
Gold Coast
I lower my expectations. A lot. After all, whenever I take the kids anywhere awesome (i.e. expensive), the main thing they remember is usually the play park and the ice cream. So I find something simple that they will enjoy, and that I don’t mind doing, and simply settle for that. After all, even average entertainment around here is still pretty good!
Mick,
Brisbane
Our house survives just by sharing the load. We both work, so we both shuffle our hours, taking turns to handle the mayhem of home. I tend to take the kids out bike riding, whilst my wife tends to be more cultural and hit the museums or just give the kids some much-needed downtime. It’s not easy, but I try to remember that I used to love summer holidays as a kid, and I want my kids to have the same memories.
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Tracey,
Sunshine Coast
I find I have to have a plan. Those days when you don’t know what you are doing, then it’s 11am and you really need to get the kids out of the house before they kill each other? Don’t let it happen, have a plan. That, and wine.
Louise,
Brisbane
In our family, taking turns is key. First day, Child 1 gets to choose something they like, within a certain budget. The next day, the next child has a turn. I insist that all kids take part, or at least have a go in everything that we do, which means the boys sometimes have to get involved in craft and the girls also head to the skate park. And we never do activities two days in a row. We have one day at home between every excursion— both to break it up, and to give the wallet a breather.
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Sam,
Gold Coast
We particularly struggle at school holidays as we have no family nearby. So survival for us is down to play dates. Lots of them. I find having friends over stops the sibling battles, so I’d rather have more kids than just my own! Then we can trade and my kids go for a play date at someone else’s house!
Alex,
Sunshine Coast
We are really lucky that we have a beach within an easy walk, so a lot of the summer holiday struggles are easily remedied with a swim and a sandcastle. I do sometimes try to take them further afield—such as the zoo, or for a trip to the city and to check out the museums and attractions in Brisbane—but the beach is definitely the one thing that gets us through the eight weeks! And best of all, it’s free!
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