Kids in the City Magazine - Brisbane - Issue 27. January/February 2018 by Shore Media

ISSUE 27 January/February 2018 BRISBANE

o t k c Ba L

FREE

O O H SC CIAL SPE

Local guide to AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

www.kidsinthecity.com.au

TO TAKE HOME

The future of EDUCATION 2018 and beyond

The best places where KIDS EAT FREE

QPAC presents a Sydney Opera House production

A delightfully chaotic cabaret for kids

Production Partner

3 - 13 JANUARY 2018

PLAYHOUSE, QPAC BOOK NOW QPAC.COM.AU | 136 246

AGES 5+

WELCOME

Summer Sunshine Co

ast - Brisban

e - Gold Coas

SCHOOL HOLIDAY G

UIDE

Read online now!

And just like that, Christmas is over! We’ve successfully pulled off another year of Santa mischief and enjoyed more than a few proseccos, and with a little sadness the fairy lights are packed away once more. But with most of summer still ahead (I love summer!), we can turn to the new year ahead and get set to enjoy another kid-sized year! For many, a new year means setting some new resolutions. In our house we all write a couple down and stick them on the fridge… yep even the kids. Mainly because once the year gains momentum it helps to remind us all what we really want to do amidst the nappies, school runs and work/life juggle. Do I achieve them? Not always (see resolution 1 below!). But I love to work with the kids to help them achieve theirs (typical mama bear comes last!), and it’s fun to take last year’s down and see how much we’ve achieved. For this year, mine include:

LOVE

1. Get fit

(A repeat appearance from last year!) So watch out Queensland streets as my new runners and I are coming for you.

2. Say hello to a new mama every chance I can

As a working mum raising a busy young family, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of life. So this year I’m going to get out more and be more part of the local sisterhood: say hello at the park; smile at the school gates; hear more stories.

3. Give myself a break

No need to explain that one, but I’m sure I feel many other mamas out there nodding right now. It’s OK not to be Supermum every day, it’s OK to give the kids toast for dinner sometimes, and its more than OK to just dial back the high expectations we set ourselves.

Still stuck for som ething to do over the school holiday Jump onto our we s? bsite for our HUGE school holiday guide kid-sized activities . Full of to keep little ones entertained over th kidsonthecoast.c e break. om.au/things-to-d o/holiday-eguides A new year also means that for many Sunshine Coast families a new school year is just around the corner! This issue we have a bumper with expert tips and all the essentials to get you back to the classroom. We’ve also got a week of simple freezable lunchbox recipes to ease the return to the lunchbox grind. Our Education Profile takes a tour behind the scenes at Nambour Christian College, where they are delivering an exceptional academic program to ensure students are ready for the unknown future ahead. And if you are thinking of enrolling your kids in any this year, our Active feature looks at how to get the most out of your after school experiences and the many options available in your local area. If you are in need of a little inspiration, we chat to one Brisbane mum who has built an amazing mama community whilst also paying it forward in the process. And if you fancy treating yourself to a night out, we’ve got all the places across the region where kids eat free! Oh, and one of my resoutions from 2017 was to bring my third baby (this magazine!) back to its bigger size. So I’m super excited to bring you the new and improved version. It’s still the same much-loved mag that has been part of the local community for many years, but now , with more news, information, local events and plenty of new features… as well as a bucket-load of love poured into the pages.

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

AFT ER SCHOOL

ACTIVITIES

BIGGER

Happy New Year!

The team PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Angela Sutherland

PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR Helen Rush

ACCOUNT MANAGER GOLD COAST Bridget Vallis

ACCOUNT MANAGER BRISBANE Rebecca Kane

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Eva Lewi

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tanya Nissen

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GRAPHIC DESIGN Michelle Craik

kidsinthecitymagazine

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

CONTENTS

Features 16

EDUCATION: Nambour Christian College and the future of education

BACK TO SCHOOL: Our ultimate guide to get you back to the classroom

PUBLISHED BY

SH RE

GET ACTIVE: Getting the most out of your after school activities this year

Taylor Field-Mitchell (6) Year 1 student, Nambour Christian College Nakoa Wykes (3) Early Learners Pre-Kindy student, Nambour Christian College

MEDIA

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

More than just 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 and only place families come to connect – where they are understood, united and inspired.

ADVERTISING SUNSHINE COAST: helen@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706 GOLD COAST: bridget@shoremedia.com.au 0468 868 087 BRISBANE: rebecca@shoremedia.com.au 0411 645 887 MARCH/APRIL 2018 BOOKING DEADLINES Ad booking: February 14 Art deadline: February 19

Regulars

Cover Photograph: Verve Portraits

FROM THE EDITOR .................................................................................................................. 3 WHAT’S ON: The best local events for January and February............................................... 7 WHAT’S NEWS: The latest news in your area ........................................................................ 11 NOTICEBOARD: All the news and achievements from our local schools .......................... 12 CHECK THIS OUT: The latest products for kid-sized lives .................................................. 14 FOOD: Easy freezy - a week of freezable lunchbox recipes ................................................... 32 LOCAL: The region’s best spots where kids eat free .............................................................. 35 LOCAL LIFE: Lucia de Mello and Babes + Picnics ................................................................. 38 CLASSIFIEDS: Local products and services ........................................................................... 40 REVIEWS: This season's movies, books and apps ................................................................. 42 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.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across Southeast Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast. For distribution enquiries inbox@shoremedia.com.au Printed at Fast Proof Press Printing 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.

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What's ON

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Visit our website to see more events!

THE FUNATORIUM: MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTY

19 JANUARY

3 – 13 January QPAC, Brisbane qpac.com.au The Funatorium: Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is a delightfully chaotic cabaret for kids that features the country’s top talent from the realms of circus and cabaret. Pop on your hat, raise your tea pinky, get your silly faces on and join Alice in Wonderland favourites The Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat and The Queen of Hearts in a show full of acrobatics, circus, singing, dancing and roller skates!

FUEL summer workshops CQ University girlshapedflames.com Stay fired up over the holiday with FUEL's wide range of interactive and hands-on activities for teen girls (Years 7–12). Workshops include ‘Women in Tech’, ‘Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Awesome’, ‘So you Want to Change the World’, and more.

THE LITTLE MERMAID

17 to 20 January The Playhouse, Brisbane btq.com.au Enter the magical underwater world of Ballet Theatre of Queensland’s The Little Mermaid, an enchanting ballet based on the Hans Christian Anderson classic tale of love, loss and discovery. Join Queensland’s premier youth ballet company, celebrating its 81st year of ballet magic making, by bringing this beloved fairy-tale to life.

SPEAK UP STUDIO SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS 8 – 19 January speakupstudio.com.au Speak Up Studio holds fun and creative school holiday workshops focusing on a range of creative areas, such as musical theatre, drama, art and craft, filmmaking and science. Speak Up’s school holiday workshops aim to develop self-confidence, communication skills and creativity through various mediums. Speak Up Studio teachers take pride in ensuring workshops are engaging, age appropriate, and most importantly, full of excitement!

RUN AWAY TO THE CIRCUS HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS To 12 January Flipside Circus www.flipsidecircus.org.au/classes This summer, instead of hearing the usual, “I’m bored” why not give your child the opportunity to spend even more time doing something they love: Circus! These school holiday workshops are full of fun, creative and physical challenges that will keep your children stimulated and entertained.

* 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.

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What's ON

DON'T MISS OUT ON ANY EVENTS! Sign up at kidsonthecoast.com.au or kidsinthecity.com.au for our weekly What’s On guide.

Visit our website to see more events!

Sand Safari Festival

SUMMER FESTIVAL: TECH + STORIES + PLAY

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT

The Twelve Dancing Princesses 20 January – 17 March Brisbane Arts Theatre artstheatre.com.au The twelve princesses love to dance, but their overprotective father won’t allow it. A visit from his late wife’s sister Lady Monica is about to change all that. A magical musical journey awaits in the story of The Twelve Dancing Princesses.

GLADIATORS: HEROES OF THE COLOSSEUM To 28 January. Queensland Museum gladiators.qm.qld.gov.au The exhibition features more than 110 original artefacts including pieces of the Colosseum, authentic elaborately decorated bronze gladiator helmets and original arms and armour preserved in the ashes of Pompeii. Visitors can immerse themselves in the everyday lives of Ancient Roman Gladiators with interactive games and displays that reveal who gladiators were, where they lived and how they trained.

16 February Gold Coast Arts Centre theartscentregc.com.au Direct from London's West End and sell-out seasons in Melbourne and at the Sydney Opera House, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt returns this summer due to popular demand. Rosen’s classic, award-winning book comes to life vividly and noisily in this hugely innovative, fun-filled stage adaptation. Join the show’s intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog through the swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the squelchy mud, in search of a bear. Expect plenty of fun-filled interaction and a few surprises along the way.

BUILT FOR SPEED To 17 February Ipswich Art Gallery ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au Design and build your own car from LEGO, race it down ramps and slick tracks, modify your ride, and re-race for the ultimate victory! Thrills, spills and awesome crashes are guaranteed!

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

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2 – 25 February Surfers Paradise surfersparadise.com Over 17 days the sand and streets of Surfers Paradise will come alive with the annual Sand Safari Festival. The popular free event features the Australian Sand Sculpting Championships, bringing thousands of spectators to admire the country’s most talented sculptors as they create life-sized masterpieces. There will also be gigantic inflatable art scattered throughout the Surfers Paradise precinct.

To 22 January State Library of Queensland slq.qld.gov.au/summerfestival Boasting a choose-your-own adventure program of free activities and our popular Story Lab workshop series, Summer Festival is bursting with fabulous imaginative fun for children, young people and families. Start with some classic story-telling or arts and crafts. Get digital with workshops in coding, robotics, virtual reality, augmented reality and 360 film-making. Go from creative writing to creating your own picture book. Explore the free exhibitions and interactive installations.

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Local NEWS DID YOU

KNOW? OVER 14 BILLION PENCILS ARE MADE WORLDWIDE EVERY YEAR On their first day of school, children in Germany receive a special cone called Schultüte filled with pens, pencils, books and lollies

The tradition of giving apples began in 16th Century Denmark. Parents would pay the teachers with food because teachers didn’t earn much money THE FEAR OF GOING TO SCHOOL IS CALLED DIDASKALEINOPHOBIA. IT AFFECTS AROUND 2.4% OF KIDS THE LARGEST SCHOOL IN THE WORLD IS IN INDIA WITH MORE THAN 32,000 STUDENTS The children in Holland all start school on their fourth birthday so there’s always someone new in class

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NEW BABYSITTING SERVICE OPENS ON GOLD COAST A new babysitting service has opened on the Gold Coast, servicing the whole area from the Gold Coast down to Byron Bay. As well as the regular day and evening babysitting services, Coastal Babysitters provides carers for holiday makers visiting the area or local families who might need an extra pair of hands for school pick up, days out or playing at home. They also offer overnight stays and can set up a crèche and entertainment centre for a wedding or event. All babysitters have blue card/working with children check, first aid and CPR certificate, and are either mums with their own children or have been working in childcare for at least three years.

PARENTS WARNED OF SPIKE IN DENTAL INJURIES OVER SUMMER They are this summer’s must-have holiday essential, but oversized novelty pool floats are also one of the leading causes behind an expected spike in dental injuries over the Christmas break, a paediatric dental specialist has warned. Dr Michael Chong, of the Paediatric Dental Practice on the Gold Coast, said he treated several children daily during the summer school holidays for dental trauma ranging from mild to severe.

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Accidents involving pools and waterslides account for the largest proportion of the alarming statistic, which reflects the increased amount of time youngsters spend outdoors around water,. And while summer is the clinic’s busiest time for treating dental emergencies, ranging from a single chipped tooth to several teeth knocked out, Dr Chong noted a growing number of children with injuries resulting from the rise in popularity of giant pool floats. Dr Chong warned parents to closely supervise their children when around water to prevent high-spirited antics from ending in serious accidents. “We have seen a big increase in the number of accidents occurring with large, inflatable pool toys compared to a few years ago, with several cases of kids slipping or falling off and knocking their teeth either on the pool coping or steps.” Dr Chong said it was common for multiple children to crowd onto the super-sized pool floats, which combined with the raised height of the inflatable toys and limited buffer zone between the pool coping spelled a recipe for dental disaster. Dr Chong said it was crucial to seek immediate treatment from a dentist or hospital emergency department as soon as possible after an accident. “If the child has lost a tooth, try to locate it and handle it by the crown and not the root and store it in milk in a sealable container,” Dr Chong said. “If the child is aged 6 and under and it is a baby tooth that was lost, do not to try to put it back in, but if it is an adult tooth, the best thing to do is rinse the tooth in milk if available, or water if not, then reposition it back in the mouth. “If a parent or other confident adult can put the tooth back in the mouth straight away it can increase the chance of tooth survival significantly,” he said. Dr Chong said the patient should then bite down on something soft, such as a shirt or tea towel, while urgent medical attention is sought. It is crucial the tooth is either immediately replaced in the mouth or stored in milk, while medical attention should be sought within an hour of the incident, he said. JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

NO T ICE BOARD

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All the news and achievements from our local schools

NORTHSIDE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE RECOGNISED AS LEADER IN EDUCATION INNOVATION Northside Christian College has been named one of Australia’s forty most innovative schools by The Educator. The award recognises outstanding educators who are improving teaching and learning outcomes through technology and innovative practices. Northside Christian College received the award for its intentional Design Thinking Program across its middle school. Described as a program to encourage higher-order, cross-curricular thinking, students participate in a range of sessions: Year 7 students have weekly Think Tank skills lessons; Year 8 students participate in a Design Dilemma simulation day, and Year 9 students undertake an elective known as Challenge-Based Learning. It’s hoped the program will equip students with the skills they need not only for their educational journey, but for the rest of their lives. As part of this focus on innovation, the College has opened its flagship building, the Centre for Innovation and Creativity, which houses its Entrepreneurial Hub, a space to facilitate collaboration and encourage innovation. Modelled on the London Business School’s Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, the facility encourages the exchange of ideas and the honing of problem solving skills. The Principal, Mr Leighton Kuss, said: “The vision is to create a laboratory for inspiration and encouragement, where students can identify passions, access mentoring with businesspeople, and begin to unlock their ultimate impact in life.”

ACTIVE SCHOOL TRAVEL WINNERS ANNOUNCED Over 130 principals, teachers and parents gathered recently to learn which schools won the 2017 Active School Travel award. School of the Year award went to Mansfield State School, and the School of Excellence award went to Mayfield State School. The school with the highest percentage of active travel in a small school, with an average of 79% of children actively travelling to school, was Morningside State School.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

The school with the highest percentage of active travel in a large school was Mansfield State School, with an average of 65%. The greatest increase in active travel in a small school was St Sebastian’s School, Yeronga, and the greatest increase in a large school was St Dympna’s School, Aspley. At the annual awards ceremony, Deputy Mayor, Councillor Schrinner, spoke about the Active School Travel program and how it is contributing to the health and wellbeing of students, as well as creating cleaner environments around schools.

through showcasing the wide range of drone uses. Different programs are offered at different developmental stages, ranging from practical flying skills and text-based coding for Year 6, coding and design through to Year 9 and the chance to complete the Drone license course. The students learn how to read maps and weather charts and how to react when the unexpected happens, as well as develop independence and many other important skills.

YEAR 9 STUDENTS FIRST TO GAIN REMOTE PILOT LICENCE Nine students from St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School have become the first to gain their Remote Pilot’ Licence (RePL) from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. The students have achieved this through the school’s innovative new Drone Academy, which provides students the opportunity to explore the science behind drone technology. Upper primary and secondary students at St Margaret’s are given this unique opportunity to become immersed in the engineering behind flying drones as well as highlighting future career pathways kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

Long Day Care | Before & After School Care | Vacation Care

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WEEKS TO PREP

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Call today (07) 5539 6144 Mudgeeraba - Benowa - Bundall | www.GCChildCareCentres.com.au

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Check THIS OUT THE

LATEST PRODUCTS FOR KID-SIZED LIVES Crocodile Creek Jungle Jamboree lunchbox Make school lunches more fun with a Crocodile Creek Lunchbox. This high-quality lunch box is sturdy and durable with extra lining to keep food fresh and padding to prevent crushing. Simply wipe lunch box with a damp cloth after each use for easy cleaning. Lunch boxes are PVC free, Phthalate free, BPA free, and vinyl free. RRP $24.95. childsmart.com.au

Sustomi Beeswax Wraps Replace the plastic in your kitchen this year with a sustainable alternative. Reusable food wraps may be utilised just like plastic wrap, snap lock bags, and plastic bags. Use them to keep sandwiches together, wrap cheese and snacks, or pack fruit. Just use the warmth of your hands to make the wrap cover your food and hold its shape. Made from 55% hemp, 45% organic cotton, Tasmanian beeswax, jojoba oil and tree resin. 100% plastic free, sustainable, non-toxic and environmentally friendly. 4 pack (S, M, L, XL) $52.00. emporioorganico.com.au

Smoothie Bombs Struggling to get a nutritious breakfast into your little one? Smoothie bombs can ease the morning chaos, getting kids to school fully fuelled each day. Vegan, paleo, gluten free and with no preservatives, Smoothie Bombs are easy to use, great tasting and totally kid-friendly. Starter Pack $55 for all 5 tubes (25 smoothie boosters) or $12.95 per tube. thesmoothiebombs.com

Seedling Colour the Galaxy Ball Educational and fabulously fun, this Colour the Galaxy creative activity is another great award-winning kids craft kit by Seedling. Ready to colour then inflate into a super bouncy jumbo galaxy ball, 40cm in diameter. Kit contains: Seedling inflatable galaxy ball, 6 x coloured craft markers and instructions. Recommended for ages 3+ years. $24.80. rainbowfun.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

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WIN

Charlie Romper Lightweight, comfortable and adorable, The Charlie Romper is a staple for any baby’s wardrobe. Loose fitting for play or relaxing, this generous fit is great for little rollers, crawlers, walkers or runners! Featuring a traditional high, round neck look, easy access for little heads and a gathered waistline, the Charlie Romper ticks all the boxes when it comes to aesthetics and practicality. As well, Nura Australia will donate $1 from every garment sold to an Australian charity. $70. nuraaustralia.com.au

Water Baby Swimwear Water Baby Swimwear saves wetsuit waste to create these divine swimmers for little ones. Launched by local mums, the innovative design was developed using smaller handcut panels that could utilise neoprene offcuts from wetsuit factories that would usually be thrown away. With recycled card packaging, these really are the sustainable swimmers for the summer. For little beach babes ages 3 months to 3 years. From $29.95. neverworkingmondays.com

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a $40 gift voucher to choose your own Water Baby Swimmers! Just head to our website for your chance to win!

Owlet Smart Sock 2 The Owlet Smart Sock 2 tracks heart rate and oxygen levels and notifies you in real-time if something appears to be wrong. Worn comfortably on a baby’s foot the Smart Sock uses pulse oximetry to track a baby whilst sleeping. It sends notifications via a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) base station, to the parents’ smartphone, making it easy to check if their baby is sleeping soundly. If a baby’s heart rate or oxygen levels deviate outside of pre-set levels, parents are notified via an alarm. RRP $399.99. owletcare.com.au

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EDUCATION PROFILE

THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION

2018and beyond rapid pace

With the world changing at such a , how do today’s schools prepare students for an unknown future? One thing we know about the future is that it will look very different from life today. Due to automation and significant advancements in technology we are on the brink of a world where 40 per cent of current jobs may no longer exist and graduates will need to conceive, create and forge their own employment. One of the biggest challenges facing educators today is how to prepare students for this unknown future. As well as ensuring students leave school with essential numeracy and literacy skills, today’s students need to be well-rounded citizens who can turn their hand to any opportunity as well as having the resilience to self-analyse and test their capabilities, ready to face the uncharted path ahead. To adequately prepare their students for this unknown world Nambour Christian College (NCC) believes that it’s the breadth of experiences and education for the whole child that is key. From their extensive Early Learners activities to inclusive VET and TAFE courses, the unique blend of spiritual, creative and academic teaching is ensuring a generation of students fully prepared for the world ahead.

THE FUTURE STARTS NOW The growth mindset, curiosity and love for learning required for future success is something that needs to be instilled in students in the very early years. To achieve this, today’s early learning centres should be engaging, inspiring spaces with a wide range of play-based, sensory learning experiences. Play-based learning develops critical thinking, communication, independent thought and problem solving skills, and this is now the pedagogy that underpins the national Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF*). In response to this, NCC Early Learners takes a lot of their learning out of the classroom and back to nature, with orchards, cattle, chickens and a fully-functioning farm as part of the school. Children can pick veggies,

care for horses, and use this outdoor environment to connect real-world experiences to the embedded literacy and numeracy learning intentions. This early grounding in the natural world is a critical part of the beginnings of a well-rounded child, and something that many families no longer have access to – living in apartments and high-density housing. As well as developing a connection to nature, a key part of a whole child education is learning from an early age to make healthy choices and lead an active lifestyle. Ensuring children in preschool get enough of the right exercise to develop and strengthen their growing bodies as well as develop their emotional and social skills is as important as teaching ABC. “One of the most important things we offer at NCC is our Active Kids program,” explained Bronwyn Taylor, Head of Early Learners. “This fun sports program runs four days a week as part of the Early Learners curriculum and includes a lot of ball handling skills, balance, movement and coordination. We change it to match the current needs of the child, reflecting on the program at all times.” Also as part of their active learning program, NCC has the very unique offering of a weekly swimming lesson for every child over the age of two and a half. “Our swimming program is quite exceptional,” said Bronwyn. “Living on the Sunshine Coast it’s really important that children learn to swim. And having them learn whilst at preschool is a huge help for busy parents.” The third, and equally important piece to this whole-child philosophy in the preschool years is nutrition. “The fact we provide all meals is definitely a favourite with the parents!” said Bronwyn. “The menu is planned with a nutritionist and it looks at the health and wellbeing of the children. Not only does this save parents the daily chore of preparing lunchboxes, it also gives children the opportunity to try different foods and ensures they all receive a balanced, healthy, nutritious diet each day.”

*You can find out more about the EYLF at www.education.gov.au/early-years-learning-framework] kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

EDUCATION PROFILE A COHESIVE EDUCATION

THE CRITICAL PRIMARY YEARS

A successful start to Prep depends on a smooth transition from Kindy. With the Early Learning Centre as part of the greater school, this is where schools such as NCC really excel. With a regular connection to the Junior school, Kindy students are accustomed to the environment well before officially stepping through the doors. Therefore, by the time they do enrol they already have a relationship with the teachers, they know the environment, and already feel like they belong. “We go over and above the typical school process to make sure the Prep transition at NCC is a smooth one,” explained Deb Holmes, Acting Head of Junior School. “With everything in one school, the Early Learners can come to all the concerts, events and exhibitions at the Junior school so they already feel part of the school.” She continued, “We also have information nights for parents and Kindy students have regular visits to the junior school to ensure that every child is completely comfortable in the Prep classroom before they start.” With such a smooth start students can hit Prep running, and rather than spending the first term finding their feet the NCC Prep students are already a significant step ahead.

The primary years are when the solid foundations are set for both emotional resilience and academic success. In response to this, many primary schools in recent years have moved to a combination of explicit teaching and student-led, play-based experiences. With a system of classroom ‘Investigations’ in Prep, where children are engaged in purposeful and deliberate activities at hands-on stations, NCC is one such school to make the shift – and with great success. “The foundations of literacy and numeracy are absolutely crucial,” said Deb, “and we ensure that these are achieved with explicit teaching.” However, the investigations add another level to the classroom, with children discovering learning intentions for themselves, nurturing and expanding those curious minds. Another aspect of preparing students for the future is a strong arts program. Fostering critical thinking skills and encouraging selfexpression and curiosity, creativity is integral to learning how to resolve problems. With Creative Arts now being such a critical part of the development of a well-rounded child, key thought leaders in education have been actively pushing for creativity to be taken as seriously as literacy and numeracy. Rather than preparing for a singular job for life, graduates of the future could have up to 30 different occupations in their lifetime, meaning they will need to constantly reinvent themselves, logically analyse information and take risks. If they aren’t creative and always looking for solutions, they aren’t going to cope with the future they face. “Our students need to be the problem solvers of the future. To equip students for life they need these critical thinking skills that creativity brings,” said Deb. “We know that a strong arts program in the early years is important, so we have a well-rounded arts program that complements students’ learning and incorporates the different areas.” A good example of this is NCC’s Year 4 music program, which ensures all children learn an instrument they haven’t learned before. “This approach has seen great success. We now have some amazing talent in the senior school, with bands that have travelled overseas for competitions and a renowned music department.” The many strands on offer ensure students have a solid foundation for their future learning as they progress through the junior school.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

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EDUCATION PROFILE “The future is unknown, we are preparing children for jobs that we don’t know what they are going to be,” said Deb. “We need to create strong literacy and numeracy skills. But students also need to be able to articulate what they think and feel, and we want students to love learning, which comes from it being fun and engaging. So, we aim to make that the case with all our programs.” This is reflected in the burgeoning facilities on offer to children in the junior school, where they have access to rock climbing walls, a dance studio, gym, swimming pool, their own science lab, a dedicated junior library, performing arts space and an art rotation program. “One of the things that makes NCC unique is the breadth we offer. We are constantly researching our programs and are dedicated to always meeting innovative learning,” said Deb.

CATERING TO EVERY STRENGTH Facing such an unpredictable job market, more than ever it’s important for graduating students to explore their skills and have every possible opportunity available to them. Bruce Campbell, CEO of Nambour Christian College, explained, “We have a high standard of education for those students that want to go to university, but that’s not for everyone. Therefore, we also offer hands-on skill development in hospitality via our fully operational commercial training kitchen and café restaurant, as well as Industrial Technology, Trade and TAFE Certificates.” The school also has a careers and guidance counsellor who ensures the balance is there in traineeships and apprenticeships. “No two children are alike,” Bruce continued. “We have families where one child loves books and robotics and another who loves to climb and paint. With our broad curriculum, every child is catered for and families can have all children at the school knowing that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.” Education today needs to deliver on many levels. “It’s not just skills and knowledge,” said Bruce. “It's behaviour, character, community, as well as physical, emotional and spiritual development.”

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This is more challenging for schools, because they not only need to be a classroom, they need to be a safe-haven and predictable space that gives students the stability, support and confidence to ask questions. “Children need to feel supported and safe to explore.” Bruce continued. “Meaning relationships and a strong connection to the staff are crucial for students of today.” As a Christian school, NCC believes that these Christian values play a critical part in preparing students for the future; this foundation providing education for human development – spiritual, emotional, physical and academic. “We believe that spiritual grounding is important to be prepared for the unknown,” explained Bruce. “Students need to have a firm understanding of what they believe; of reason, of logic, and to be inquisitive. These values will always be with them to guide them when they have to make tough decisions in the future. How we act will come back to the beliefs we hold.” To support these values, NCC operates an extensive global outreach program throughout the senior years, with student-led events and life-changing trips such as Kokoda, Malawi, Fiji and the Gulf of Carpentaria. “These activities push the capacity of students far more than is possible in a classroom, building resilience and developing character strength,” explained Bruce. “This also provides them with an understanding of gratitude and devotion, and always being aware that they are blessed, and that it is important to bless others.” This spiritual guidance is evident across the school. From the early years through to the high school, students are taught to look outward, becoming confident, well-rounded citizens, always able to see beyond themselves. So when they do step out of the school gates into that unknown future, students are equipped with all the skills they need to thrive and give back to society.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

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BACK TO SCHOOL

Ultimate

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE The tinsel is packed away, the kids are getting a little STIR-CRAZY, and all too fast back-to-school time is just around the corner! Whether you have a little one testing the waters at Kindy, a Preppie starting ‘big school’, or a child who already knows the drill, this time of year is one of great excitement, nerves and change as our little ones embark on the next stage of their learning journey. To ease the strain, we’ve gathered together the experts in one huge Back to School Guide, with everything you need to know to make your return to school a breeze.

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Overcoming Separation Anxiety By Joanne Wilson For many parents, new Preppies and children returning to school, this can be an extremely tense time of year. The trepidation can arise throughout the holidays, then increasingly loom like an encroaching storm cloud as January arrives. Some try a different path each year towards the first day of school and still arrive at the same place – separation anxiety. As a mother of three boys, I too have experienced the first day ‘Child Desperately Attached to Leg Upon Departure Syndrome’. On several occasions having to extract myself from an unavoidable scene on the school grounds, fighting back the distressed tears as the incredible rush of guilt engulfed me all at once. The joy of parenting involves plenty of exhaustion, surprising delights and trials. As a counsellor, it is a truly rewarding experience to empower clients when we collaborate on being one step ahead of our limitations or potentially woeful scenarios. The whole ‘back to school’ event is one of them! The best advantage we can give everyone involved is to calm the ‘emotional centre’ of our brain. This is the area responsible for detecting and alerting us to threat contributing to emotions such as fear. With preparation we have a much better chance of accessing our ‘smart brain’, being the pre-frontal cortex that allows us to think clearly and behave in a calm manner. An obvious main concern for many children commencing school is the fear that Mum or Dad won’t come back. Furthermore, the torrent of fears can include: • What if I don’t know where the toilet is? • What if my friend is not at school? • What if I miss Mum and Dad? • What if the other kids are mean to me? • How will I know when you’re coming back? • What happens at lunchtime? • Where do I play? JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

BACK TO SCHOOL So, if you’re expecting the unexpected for school this year, I’ve joined forces with two Junior School Prep and Year 1 experts at the Immanuel Lutheran College, Mrs Naomi Rogers and Mrs Leanne Auricht. Together we’ve created 16 wonderful tips to make your back to school experience something to look forward to. 1. BE POSITIVE: Talk about going to school as an upbeat experience. Don’t plant worry seeds in your child’s head or allow them to hear your own concerns voiced with others. 2. ARM THEM WITH KNOWLEDGE: Patiently answer all their questions and reassure them it’s normal to have concerns of the unknown. 3. ROLE PLAY: let your child know what to expect. They pretend to be the parent while you act as the child. Go through all the motions of the first day of school: waking you up, getting you dressed, feeding you breakfast, dropping you off and finally, picking you up. 4. CREATE A COUNTDOWN CALENDAR: Make a chart together that counts down the days until school starts. Not only can your child visualise the time frame, but prompts you to get organised! 5. FIND SOME FRIENDLY FACES: Find one or two other children that will be in your child’s class and set up a play date before school starts. It will give you a chance to get to know some fellow parents and help acclimatise your little one to their new surroundings. 6. GET THE SLEEP SCHEDULE ON TRACK: The long and sunny summer months are conducive to later bed times. Gradually get them back on schedule, moving up their bedtime by 15-30 minutes every few days. 7pm is a great sleep time for younger children. When it’s time for school to start, their internal body clocks are already adjusted! 7. READ SOME BOOKS: Fictional characters have a way of making difficult situations easy since they always have a happy ending. The stories can give your child a natural opportunity to share any fears and often have key kid-friendly phrases that parents can re-use to reassure their children. Here are a few to choose from: • I Love You All Day Long • The Kissing Hand • Go Home, Mrs. Beekman! • The Night Before Kindergarten

10. ENCOURAGE A HELP-SEEKING MENTALITY: Assure your child that all questions may not be answered on the first day, but teachers are there to help. They want to help you so don’t be afraid to ask. 11. KEEP THE DROP-OFF SHORT BUT SWEET: One of the biggest mistakes parents make is to turn school drop-off into the long goodbye. Give them one last hug, take a deep breath, trust the teachers and walk away. Even if your child starts crying, don’t linger because it will make it worse. 12. CREATE A SPECIAL GOODBYE RITUAL: Whether it’s a silly handshake or a simple call and response phrase like, “See ya later alligator/After a while crocodile”. Find something unique to do as you say your goodbyes. A repetitive ritual not only creates a familiar comforting cue, but a firm exit point for you to leave. 13. PACK A PIECE OF HOME: If your child has a comfort item like a little blanket, allow them to include it in the backpack so they’ll have a bit of familiarity that reminds them of you that they can go and look at/cuddle during the day. 14. NURTURING STATEMENT: As essential it is for adults to ensure their self-talk is nurturing and enabling, your child could use words of wisdom they can recite to themselves. “I can do it and I am brave!” or Winnie the Pooh’s, “I am braver than I believe, stronger than I seem, smarter than I think and loved more that I know.”

8. DE-STRESS YOUR MORNING ROUTINE: Do as much as you can the night before such as packing lunch boxes, lay out uniforms and find those elusive hats. Be organised!

15. CELEBRATE AT PICK-UP: At the end of the school day, make sure you are not late (first child, first day, I misinterpreted the pick-up time as 30 minutes later – whoops!). Then, tell them how proud you are. Ask them what they are looking forward to tomorrow so you can keep the enthusiasm going.

9. DON’T BE LATE: Set your alarm clock half an hour early to get your own morning preparation out of the way in order to focus on your little student. This alleviates children ‘feeding’ from your own potential stress levels.

16. BE PATIENT: It will generally take a few weeks before your child fully adjusts to the new school routines. Keep your morning schedule consistent, your goodbyes short, and your little student will eventually adjust to school.

Joanne Wilson is a professional Relationship Counsellor and Certified Clinical Neuropsychotherapy Practitioner of The Confidante Counselling in Buderim and Cotton Tree on the Sunshine Coast. She is a weekly radio guest for Radio Salt 106.5 and loves inspiring the community through guest speaking invitations and producing her own books. Email jo@theconfidantecounselling.com or visit www.sunshinecoastcounselling.com for further information.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

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IEnrol yourI I4 year old in aI Ikindy program nowI Kindergarten, or kindy, is: • a part-time educational program for children in the year before school • play-based learning

All children in Queensland are eligible to attend a quality kindergarten in the year before school. Your child must be 4 years old by 30 June to participate.

• delivered by a qualified early childhood teacher

Child born

Child can attend kindy

• available at some kindergartens and long day care services.

1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013

2017

1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014

2018

To identify a Queensland Government-approved kindy program, look for the ‘kindy tick’.

1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015

2019

1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016

2020

1 July 2016 to 30 June 2017

2021

You may be eligible for financial support, which offers kindy at low cost or no cost, please talk to your service.

More information Contact the Queensland Government on telephone 13 74 68 Search for ‘kindy’ at www.qld.gov.au/earlyyearscount kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

Authorised by the Queensland Government, William St, Brisbane

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

HEALTH PROMOTION

8 tips for healthy feet in kids Children are naturally active beings. Their young bodies are full of energy to jump, hop, skip and run around all day long. If your child is having trouble keeping up with the other kids, or is regularly falling over for no apparent reason, they might be having foot problems. Foot conditions can be associated with poor motor skill development, posture issues as well as injuries in their feet, knee, hip and back resulting in pain.

HERE ARE 8 TIPS FOR HEALTHY FEET IN KIDS: 1. Babies’ feet develop and grow rapidly. Allowing babies to remain barefoot while crawling enables full contact between their skin and the ground, which assists the development of balance. Of course, make sure there are no hazards around that could injure bare feet. 2. When your child starts to walk, it’s a good idea to get professionally fitted shoes to ensure a good fit and provide protection. Materials such as canvas or leather are preferred. 3. Sock sizes often change as frequently as shoe sizes. Make sure socks aren’t too tight and that they don’t bunch up inside shoes. 4. Little feet become big feet quickly! Measure your child’s feet regularly to be sure they are wearing shoes that fit properly. Shoes that are too tight may cause pain, discomfort and deformity. 5. The way your child’s shoes show wear and tear can give you a good indication of incorrect walking patterns or postural problems.

Excessive wear and tear, for example, from the outside edge to the inside of the shoe or around the heel is indicative of problems that should be checked out. 6. Wash little feet daily in soap and water and dry thoroughly. Little feet often get sweaty, and cotton threads or even long hair from mum can wrap around toes inside socks. 7. Keep toenails trimmed and take care not to cut nails too close to the skin as this can lead to ingrown toenails that can become painful. 8. Children rarely complain about painful or injured feet, so when they do it is important to seek professional advice.

QUICK TIPS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL FOOTWEAR FITTING: • Always have both feet measured for length and width, and have shoes fitted by a store with trained assistants to ensure they are the correct size and shape. • The shoe should fit the natural shape of the foot, especially around the toes. • Toes should be able to move freely and not be squashed from the top or the sides. Make sure there is about 1cm growing room for children between the end of the longest toe and the end of the shoe. • Shoes should fit comfortably around the heel and not be too loose or too tight.

At ProMed we are passionate about children’s feet. During the months of January and February all children who attend ProMed for a foot health assessment will receive a ProMed Podiatry Pack! To book your child’s foot health assessment please contact our friendly staff at ProMed Podiatry on 07 5522 1230 or book online via our website www.promedclinic.com.au.

SERVICES

20 years servicing the Gold Coast Gold Coast’s Foot Health Professionals for all your foot health needs

• Children’s foot conditions • Nail and skin care • Diabetic foot care • Nail bracing • Nail surgery • Custom orthotic therapy • Sports podiatry • Heel pain • Foot, ankle, knee and hip pain • Wart therapy • Footwear assessment

Suite 1, 2 Executive Drive, Burleigh Waters • 07 5522 1230 • info@promedclinic.com.au

ONLINE BOOKING SERVICE AVAILABLE • www.promedclinic.com.au 24

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BACK TO SCHOOL

Beating the Summer Slide By Kelly Mulcahy Primary Learning Leader Unity College, Caloundra West The freedom and fun that the long summer holiday brings is always much anticipated (for us educators as well as the students!). And though that downtime is there to be enjoyed, all too often the holiday months can become a time when learning seems to switch off and many children start to slip down what has been coined by researchers as the ‘summer slide’ (which unfortunately is not actually as fun as it sounds!). In short, when children end up on this ‘summer slide’ it means that the progress they have achieved during the school year through hard work and effort is at risk of being ‘lost’ in a classic case of ‘use it or lose it’. Fortunately, however, the ‘summer slide’ is not a foregone conclusion and there is plenty of simple things that can be done over the break to ensure there is a good balance of ‘necessary recharging’ and ‘active engagement’ to keep children up to speed and ready for action at the start of the new school year. Here are a few top tips! • MAKE A FLEXIBLE PLAN: As much as educators love to see learning happening, the home environment shouldn’t become a ‘mini classroom’ over the holidays. If you aim to keep things relaxed yet stimulating you will be surprised at the magic that will follow. • READING KIDS RULE: Encourage reading in your home at every opportunity. Read to and with your children daily and focus on things they are interested in. If your little (and bigger!) ones love a competition, see if you can get them involved in a Holiday Reading Challenge – set an individual target appropriate to their needs and then celebrate when the goal is achieved! • VISIT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY: Libraries are an amazing community hub which are not only fabulous for discovering new books and authors to expose your children to but they also offer many free activities that children of all ages can become involved in – be sure to check yours out! • EXPLORE YOUR ENVIRONMENT: Remember that healthy and active kids learn! Help to limit screen time by encouraging hands-on imaginative and investigative play both indoors and outside – the world around us is so full of awe and wonder! • GO ON AN ADVENTURE: Hop on a train and head into Brisbane City to visit the Museum or Art Gallery for a dose of culture that will inspire and engage children of any age. • SHOW GRATITUDE: Encourage your child to be grateful for all that they have (and practice writing as an added bonus!) by keeping their own gratitude journal or contributing to a family one. Can be as simple as three things a day! • GET CREATIVE: Make daily activities like cooking, shopping and household chores fun and learning will be a positive and beneficial side-effect!

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“Have a practice run with the lunchbox before starting school to make sure they can open the lid and unpack all the food.” Nikki, Sunshine Coast “Though it’s tempting to wait until the last minute to get school shoes (so their feet are the right size), make sure you get them early enough to give them time to wear them in.” Pete, Gold Coast “Put names on absolutely everything. Everything.” Alex, Brisbane “Always send them to school with a tissue in their pocket, avoid those slimy sleeves!” Stevie, Gold Coast

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

BACK TO SCHOOL I Am... BRAVE Whether its monsters under the bed or first day school nerves, I AM… BRAVE is a relaxing and calming blend for the young and young at heart when feeling fear, self-doubt or anxiety. The multipurpose elixir helps boost healthy selfesteem and encourages us to step up our innate power and find our inner lion heart. RRP $24.95. hanakotherapies.com

Skobi School Shoes Locally designed in Brisbane and founded by Paediatric Podiatrists, the Skobi range comprises four collections which include options for children with sensory processing issues, sensitive and fussy feet as well as kids who love to be active and jump in every puddle they see. The unique and stylish designs offer the ultimate feel, form and function with a variety of features to ensure there is a shoe to fit every kid’s foot. skobishoes.com.au

BACK TO SCHOOL ESSENTIALS

Hippo Blue Sticker Pack Whether it’s your first year or last year, getting ready for a new school year is chaotic and preparation is key! This limited edition ‘Basic Back to School pack’ has all your labelling needs covered. It has a total of 180 labels: 64 x Mini Name Stickers, 32 x Standard Name Stickers, 24 x Shoe Labels / Round Name Stickers, 32 x Mini Clothing Labels, 16 x Standard Clothing Labels, 12 x Round Clothing Labels. Name stickers are dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe. Clothing labels are washing machine and dryer safe. Special Offer: $27 RRP $40 - save 33% whilst offer lasts hippoblue.com.au

WIN: $100 Hippo Blue Gift Card Just head to our website to enter! 26

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

Stuck on you Colouring Kit This fab colouring kit is perfect for little ones heading back to school, with the hard work of labelling items already done for you! You can even include an icon to each pencil and marker to truly personalise the kit. The pack includes 12 coloured pencils and 11 water soluble, non-toxic markers. $19.95. stuckonyou.com.au

Laceez no-tie shoelaces Do your kids struggle to tie shoelaces? Laceez no-tie shoelaces are designed with elastic that stretches enough to slip your shoes on, and fit snuggly around your feet so that you stay comfortable all day. Simple to install and adjust you no longer have to worry about your kids tripping over their untied shoelaces. From $7.99. laceez.com.au kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all. Aristotle

A Catholic education ensures your child is engaged, challenged and provided with clear expectations. We know your child is unique and with individual attention, we uncover their hidden talents. All our teachers seek opportunities for every student’s progress and Brisbane Catholic Education sets ambitious targets for improving classroom performance. Find out more about a Brisbane Catholic Education for your child.

Brisbane Catholic Education teaching • challenging • transforming

Find a school near you at brisbanecatholicschools.com.au

FOSTER CARE ENRICHES LIVES... YOURS AND THEIRS

Kaia Foster Care

and Residential Services

(07) 5564 0896 kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

fsg.org.au

Join the journey...

Become a Foster Carer with FSG Australia. JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

Stay on a real dairyfarm

We have 100 acres of rainforest to explore overlooking Lake Baroon. Children can milk cows, feed calves, pigs, goats & chickens, collect eggs & bush walk

Wittacork Dairy Cottages • Phone 07 5494 4369 • www.wittacork.com.au

• Early Learning program from 2.5 years of age • Pre Prep program building a successful transition to school • Noah’s Ark is the preferred entry point for starting school at King’s Christian College

e 28

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ACTIVE

Get the most out of your

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES From soccer to salsa, gymnastics to guitar lessons, there is an of activities available for little ones today. But what is age appropriate and how do you get the most out of your busy schedule?

ABUNDANCE

When it comes to kids’ activities, parents today are spoilt for choice. Whatever your child wants to try, there will be a class for it. And though you don’t want to oversubscribe your little one, getting them involved in a regular activity comes with many benefits… and they are never too young to start.

0-5 YEARS OLD One of the first activities that kids usually get involved in is swimming. Living in coastal regions, learning to swim is as essential as learning to walk and talk. There are many swim schools around, from those at the local council pool to private lessons. Look for an environment where children aren’t distracted with other classes or movement around the pool, and a low pupil to teacher ratio. “A purpose-built pool is essential to keep a class moving,” says Chris Shapland, Group Operations Manager from Shapland Swim School. “A non-purpose built pool means children stand on a platform and wait their turn which restricts the movement of the child. A purpose-built pool with lots of different depths of water keeps a class moving; you can have all three beginners moving and gaining confidence rather than going one at a time.” He continues, “All Shapland pools are purpose built and have eight different depths that work to really accelerate a child’s confidence and control in the water.” A significant amount of parent participation is expected at most activities until kids are around three years old, so be prepared to join in! And at this age it doesn’t matter so much about the specifics of the activity, its more about trying things out. Look for something that is fun and offers a wide range of movement and coordination. “For preschool kids, look for anything that involves running, jumping, ball skills, coordination, group work and taking turns,” explains Paediatric Physiotherapist Claire Mahoney, from Osana Therapy. Activities at this age are also about getting you (yes you!) out of the house and socialising with other parents in the local community, so choose something that you will both enjoy. This could be an art and craft group, a music and movement session, or a preschool team sport. If you are unsure where to start, many playgroups have visiting activities each week, which is a great way to try different things and meet people at the same time. Alternatively, check in with your local council, where you’ll find a range of creative and sporting activities for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SPORTS ACTIVITY Y Strength Y Coordination Y Balance Y Social skills and taking turns Y Confidence building Y Fun!

6-10 YEARS OLD Similar to the preschool years, the primary years are a time to develop those core skills of strength, coordination and confidence. “For primary kids, again, anything that uses a variety of skills is great – ball skills, strength work, teamwork,” explains Claire Mahoney, “and mostly what they enjoy. Every child has different likes and dislikes, so it’s about doing something they find interesting.” So, if they like being outside, try a ball sport; if they prefer being indoors try dance or martial arts. If you aren’t sure what to choose, try something such as athletics that has a variety of different activities, or an all-rounded sports programme that rotates through a different sport each week. Testing out a different activity each week might give your child enough exposure to one sport to then move on and concentrate on that sport alone, or they might enjoy staying in the rotation programme… either is fine! “If in doubt, keep it varied, keep it fun, and look for activities that grow strength and coordination and confidence,” says Claire. JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

ACTIVE BENEFITS OF TEAM SPORTS As well as increasing fitness, coordination and being active, team sports have many other benefits, which include: • Teaching kids to lose and win graciously • Developing cooperation and leadership skills • Kids who play team sports are less likely to feel isolated • Can help kids overcome shyness • Teaching kids to work as a team • Giving kids a sense of belonging • Making kids more resilient through shared wins and challenges • Helping develop friendship and camaraderie • Giving kids an appreciation of different abilities • Boosting self-esteem

KEEP IT FUN! After school activities are all about fun and enjoying what they do. “Sport for kids isn’t competitive,” says Claire, “so don’t put too much pressure on them. Emphasis shouldn’t be on competing and winning, but looking at it as fun activity.” As well, don’t oversubscribe your child, or yourself – these activities are supposed to be fun for everyone! Look to do activities with other children at school so you can share the load of the driving, and they also have a friend alongside!

FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT, TRY… Q Rockclimbing Q Circus skills Q Kayaking Q Acrobatics Q Surfing Q Clay craft Q Aerials

WHEN A CHILD WANTS TO QUIT… Whatever you choose, there will possibly come a time when your child simply doesn’t want to go to their activity. But before they quit, take a look at why they no longer want to participate. Claire explains that kids are more likely to give up when things get tough. “If a child isn’t enjoying the sport, is it because they don’t like it, or is it because they find it hard?” She suggests working on improving their skills first before they drop the activity. “If a child finds sport hard there is a reason for it. Are they clumsy or not able to keep up? Maybe tripping over, or not catching as well as they should, then it’s worth seeing a physio to check and help with their strength and coordination. They might have low muscle tone, their feet might not be aligned, or simply not have the strength for that sport. With a few months of specific exercises to help with their strength and coordination they might find that they enjoy it when they then return to the sport.”

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

RECOMMENDED IN YOUR AREA AQUATIC ADVENTURE ACHIEVERS: EMPIRE:AMore babies than andafter toddlers school learn care,to swim Adventure program Empire built offers on theaheritage range ofof fun, almost social40outdoor years of recreation operating swim activities schools to challenge in Australia. and The reconnect schoolsour areyouth focused to on delivering progress the great in aoutdoors. fun and engaging learning environment, helping your child to get the most from their weekly ALEGRIA lesson.RHYTHMIC Aquatic Achievers GYMNASTICS: operates swim Sunshine schools Coast’s only dedicated across rhythmic Brisbane. gymnastics club offering recreational, school-based and competitive training options DELTA GYMNASTICS: for all ages for Funallprogressive abilities. gymnastics classes to get kids aged 18 months to 9 years moving with AMY confidence. BECCARI With DANCE an unparalleled SCHOOL: level A family of care conscious, for every fun child and relaxed they cater dance forschool children that ofprovides all ages and top abilities quality tuition – from toddlers from andcaring, schooldevoted kids to and competitive experienced and elite teachers. gymnasts. DANCE FAME THEATRE EDGE: OneSCHOOL: of the Sunshine Fame school Coast’sofleading performing dance schools artswith offers classes a range from of age quality 2 to training adult, and programs cateringtofor all children aged 3-17 years levelsthroughout and abilities. greater Brisbane. The performance-based programs include training in dance, DANCE EMPIRE: Classes from 16 months through to drama and voice. 8 years old, Dance Empire runs Kinderballet accredited classes, FLIPSIDE introducing CIRCUS: little Queensland’s ones to classical largest ballet, youth developing circus company, gross motor providing skills opportunity through imagery for young and storytelling. people to take risks, trust, dream and aspire, work hard, laugh and have INFINITY MARTIAL ARTS: With several locations across fun! the Sunshine Coast, Infinity Martial Arts offers Brazilian FORTE SCHOOL Ju-Jitsu OFclasses MUSIC: to Experience ages 2 to adult. music lessons at their best. Guitar lessons, piano lessons, singing lessons, drum MATT lessons, FIDDES: babyclasses music,from music 3 years for kids, through musictofor adults, adults, Matt Fiddes you’ll schools find it allincorporate at Forte School a range of of Music. techniques and styles for a well-balance self-defence system. Several MATT FIDDES:locations classes from across3 SE years QLD. through to adults, Matt Fiddes schools incorporate a range of techniques and MAINLY styles MUSIC: for a well-balance A fun music self-defence session forsystem. families Several with young children locations with groups across across SE QLD. the region. Sessions are full of fun, educational musical activities to grow and SPEAK UP: Exciting develop and engaging your child. drama programs that build confidence and encourage children to be positive NOOSA REGIONAL about GALLERY: speakingNoosa up. Regional Gallery offers a weekly after school programme to promote creative learning and develop artistic skills.

CONTACT Osana Therapy - www.osanatherapy.com.au Shapland Swim School www.shapland.com.au Infinity Martial Arts: www.infinitymartialarts.com.au kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

ACTIVE

Focus on… Brazilian Jiu -Jitsu What are the benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)? There are so many benefits! As well as teaching self-defence, BJJ builds confidence, strength, discipline, motor skills, and body awareness. It also teaches to you about personal space and being aware of bad situations. BJJ uses leverage and technique to keep you safe without ever throwing punches. So, it’s more about the smaller person being able to defend themselves. It is also something that kids really tend to stick at. We have kids that started in our kids’ programme that now come to our adult classes!

What ages are BJJ appropriate for? All ages! We start with a Fun & Fitness class for 2–4 year olds, where the parents are involved in the class. This is a great opportunity for parent–child bonding whilst teaching basic motor skills and body awareness to kicks. Then we have classes for 4–7 and 7+, through to adult classes.

How do you suggest encouraging kids to get involved?

What advice do you have for parents choosing an activity?

through life. Pick something they will enjoy but also something that will benefit them throughout life – something that they will stick at, will always get better and will provide them with a life tool. Also pick something that is flexible and always has lots of things happening. At Infinity Martial Arts we have classes every day from 3.30pm to 5.30pm, we also do school holiday camps that are fun and social.

Look for something that ticks many boxes – something that gives you confidence, strength and something that they will carry with them

Dan Castles, Infinity Martial Arts

We try and make it as welcoming as possible. We really encourage kids to take care of each other on the mat. We focus on the family and friend aspect, we are all friends at the end of the day. And more than anything, just encourage them to have a go!

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FOOD

Easy freezy! A week of freezable lunchbox recipes

grind?

Dreading the return of the daily lunchbox Ditch the vegemite sandwich and fill your freezer with healthy, nutritious and super-easy bites. By Paediatric Nutritionist, Mandy Sacher BEETROOT BLISS BALLS This is a really clever way to disguise beetroot, a rich source of vitamin C, fibre and cancerfighting phytonutrients. 25 mins (+ 1 hr refrigeration time)

Makes approx. 30

Ingredients 1 cup (240g) dates, pitted and chopped

SWEET POTATO PIZZA

Kids love pizza but they don’t always go for vegetable toppings. So, I decided to create a pizza for my kids which had veggies in the base, and it worked best with sweet potato. This is one recipe that most fussy eaters will love. 15 mins

25–30 mins

Serves 4

¼ cup (40g) beetroot, peeled and finely grated

Ingredients

¼ cup (5g) baby spinach, finely sliced and chopped

Dough

1½ cups (150g) pumpkin seed meal (ground pumpkin seeds)

1½ cups (375g) sweet potato, peeled, steamed and mashed

1 cup (75g) shredded coconut

1½ cups (210g) wholemeal spelt flour

1–2 tbsp chia seeds

2 tsp baking powder

½ cup (35g) extra shredded coconut to roll balls in (optional)

½ tsp sea salt 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Instructions • Place all ingredients into a high-speed food processor and process until smooth. • Roll into little balls and then roll the balls in the shredded coconut. • Place bliss balls in freezer and leave to set for 1 hour. Serving and storing leftovers: Keep bliss balls in the freezer for up to 6 months. Tip: If your child doesn’t like shredded coconut, roll the bliss balls in carob powder or quinoa puffs.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

1 tsp oregano (dried) Topping 1 cup (250ml) tomato paste/passata 2 cups (160g) grated cheese (mozzarella, gouda or cheddar) Optional extras: basil, mushrooms, capsicum, tomatoes, olives, grated carrot, grated zucchini, anchovies.

Instructions • Preheat oven to 200°C and line a pizza pan or baking tray with baking paper. • To make the dough, place all ingredients into a high-speed food processor and process until well combined. Or you can add the ingredients to a large bowl and knead together with your hands until the mixture resembles a ball of orange pizza dough. • Press out the dough into a large circle. If it’s too sticky, oil your hands with additional olive oil. To achieve a crispy base, the dough should be about 5mm thick. • Bake in the oven for approximately 15–20 minutes or until the edges of the dough are slightly browned. 20 minutes will ensure a crisp base. • Remove pizza base from oven, add the tomato paste, cheese, and preferred toppings. Grill for 5-8 mins until cheese is melted. • Allow to cool, then cut into slices.

carotene and fibre, " Richsweetin beta potatoes are a great addition to a pizza base ." Serving and storing leftovers: Serve immediately. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze the precooked base for up to 4 months. Tip: For a gluten-free option swap the wholemeal spelt flour with the Wholesome Child gluten-free flour mix (recipe available in the Wholesome Child Book) BUTTERNUT HUMMUS Chickpeas are packed full of goodness, they are a rich source of folate, manganese, fibre, protein, iron and zinc. Butternut hummus is one of the easiest and tastiest ways to introduce chickpeas to your little one. You can either use canned chickpeas (go for an organic BPA free option if you can), or use dried chickpeas which have been soaked overnight and cooked until soft. 10 mins

Makes ½ cup

Ingredients 1 can chickpeas, drained and thoroughly rinsed 1 cup butternut pumpkin, roasted ¼ onion, finely sliced 100g pear puree ½ clove garlic ¼ cup olive oil ½ tsp cinnamon

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FOOD Tip: For a gluten-free version swap the wholegrain spelt flour with 1½ cups of the Wholesome Child GF Mix (recipe available in the Wholesome Child Book)

Instructions • Heat oil in pan, add onion, garlic and cinnamon and stir-fry until soft. • In large container add chickpeas, pear and cooked pumpkin. • Once cooled combine the onions and spices with the chickpeas and pumpkin. • Process in blender until smooth. • Use as a dip for veggie sticks or homemade crackers.

PESTO & CHEESE SAVOURY SCROLLS These scrolls are a big hit in the lunch box or at birthday parties. 15 mins

20–25 mins

Makes 10 scrolls

Ingredients Dough

Serving and storing leftovers: Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 4 months. FLAXSEED CRACKERS

These yummy crackers fill the gap between meals and combine perfectly with hummus or vegan cashew cream cheese. 10 mins

20 mins

Makes: 50 crackers

WHOLESOME CHILD BANANA BREAD

15 mins

55 mins

Makes 12 slices

Ingredients

¼ cup (45g) flaxseeds

2 large ripe bananas

¼ cup (40g) pumpkin seeds

3 large eggs

¼ cup (40g) sunflower seeds

½ cup (125ml) coconut milk

¼ cup (50g) chia seeds

4-6 Medjool dates, pitted

¼ cup (40g) sesame seeds

1 tbsp chia seeds

½ tsp sea salt

½ cup (125ml) coconut oil, melted

1 cup (130g) buckwheat/ spelt flour or Wholesome Child

1½ cups (210g) wholegrain spelt flour

gluten-free flour mix

⅓–½ cup (55g–75g) coconut sugar

½ cup (125ml) water

1 tsp vanilla powder or extract

¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda pinch sea salt

Serving and storing leftovers: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 14 days.

1 cup (260g) natural Greek yoghurt or coconut yoghurt 1 tsp baking powder

Store-bought banana breads are often loaded with processed flours, sugars and unhealthy fats. This healthier version contains wholegrain spelt flour, no processed sugars, coconut oil and chia seeds.

Ingredients

Instructions • Preheat oven to 160°C. • Place all seeds into a food processor and pulse until smooth. If you don’t want them to become meal consistency then just give them a few pulses. • Add remaining ingredients and process until just combined. • Place in between two sheets of baking paper and roll to 3–4mm thick. Transfer to baking tray and bake for 20 minutes or until golden and crisp. • Allow to cool on a wire rack then break into pieces to serve.

2 cups (280g) wholegrain spelt flour

Instructions • Preheat oven to 180°C and line a mediumsized loaf tin with baking paper. • Place bananas, eggs, milk, dates, chia seeds and coconut oil in a high-speed blender and process for approximately 1 minute or until it reaches a smooth consistency. • In a separate bowl whisk together spelt flour, coconut sugar, vanilla powder, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda and salt. • Slowly add dry ingredients into wet mixture and mix together on a medium speed. • Pour mixture into the loaf tin and sprinkle extra cinnamon on top. • Bake for approximately 45–55 mins or until a cake tester or knife comes out clean. • Allow to cool completely before cutting.

¼ tsp baking soda Pinch of sea salt Filling ½ cup (125ml) pine nut pesto (recipe available in the Wholesome Child cook book) ⅓ cup (55g) mozzarella cheese, diced

Instructions • Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper. • Place all dough ingredients into a food processor and process until smooth. • Remove the dough, shape it into a ball and place in between two sheets of baking paper and roll it into a rectangle shape about 5–10mm thick. If dough seems too sticky, lightly flour the baking paper and sprinkle some flour on top of the dough before rolling out. Remove the top sheet. • For the pesto filling, simply spread pesto onto the dough, leaving out 1cm on the longer sides and sprinkle with cheese. • Roll dough into a log shape and cut into even slices to make scrolls. • Place on the lined baking tray and bake for 20–25 mins. • Leave to cool on a wire rack before serving. Serving and storing leftovers: Serve immediately, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 4 months.

Serving and Storing leftovers: Serve immediately, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 4 months.

Mandy Sacher is a Paediatric Nutritionist, mum to two small children, and author of Wholesome Child. More than just a recipe book, Wholesome Child is a complete nutrition resource that aims to clear the confusion, arming parents with a comprehensive guide that will make meal-times far more enjoyable and nutritious for the whole family. The book incorporates a simple 8-step family nutrition program and covers everything from dealing with fussy eaters, the psychology of eating, meal plans and over 140 nutrient dense and delicious recipes. Wholesome Child is available in bookstores, on iTunes or at wholesomechild.com.au. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

Have you got someone starting school in February? Help them have a confident start...

• Bright, colourful activity kits, designed by a mum in consultation with early educators and endorsed by occupational therapists • Pressout, paste and colour activities in a self-contained kit with a wide variety of designs • Travel-friendly - ideal for summer holidays • Helps hone fine motor and foundation skills • Building preschooler confidence – ready for big school!

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PLACES

Kids eat FREE! Why not skip cooking tonight, and head out for dinner as a family? To help ease the strain on your wallet, we’ve rounded up the best kid-friendly restaurants where KIDS EAT FREE . And we all LOVE a freebie!

BRISBANE Every day CEMENT 696 New Cleveland Rd, Gumdale Cement offers a casual dining experience with a simple food ethos – excellent service and quality food. Available for dine in or take away. Kids (up to the age of 7) pay for their meal by age (for example, a two-year-old’s meal will cost $2). OK, it’s not quite free, but still a bargain!

Monday to Saturday TOMATO BROTHERS 75 Kedron Brook Rd, Wilston, QLD 4051 All kids love pizza, and Tomato Brothers’ extensive menu of woodfire pizzas has something for everyone. Dine between 5pm and 6pm, Monday to Saturday and receive one free kids’ meal for every main meal purchased. Family friendly and BYO, they can cater for any gluten or other food intolerances. It gets busy, so best book ahead.

Sunday & Monday LIONS @ SPRINGWOOD 2 Pannikin Street, Rochedale South, QLD 4123 With a video arcade for kids and casual atmosphere, every Sunday and Monday kids eat free with a paying adult.

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Sunday to Wednesday TOSCANI’S Hyperdome Shopping Centre, 3828 Pacific Highway, Shailer Park, QLD 4128 Available for kids aged 12 years and under. One free kids’ meal for every adult purchasing a large pasta or risotto, main meal or pizza.

Monday FOREST LAKE HOTEL 245 Forest Lake Blvd, Forest Lake, QLD 4578 Kids club members each free every Monday with any main meal purchase; valid for kids under 12 years old.

THE GAP TAVERN 21 Glenquarie Place, The Gap, QLD 4061 The Gap Tavern has plenty to keep the kids entertained with an outdoor playground, arcade games and movies. Kids eat free every Monday.

Tuesday EVERTON PARK HOTEL 101 Flockton Street, Everton Park, QLD 4053 A great playground with swings, slides, a movie room, a PlayStation room, and a fully operational carousel with spinning teacups that runs every day. The playground is fully fenced and designed for kids of all ages. The outdoor courtyard is situated right next door to the playcentre and the play area is also shown on CCTV inside the venue, so you can always keep an eye on the little ones, wherever you are. Purchase a full price adult main meal from the Bistro menu and receive one free kids’ meal (available for dinner only).

FISH KITCHEN 220 Annerley Road, Dutton Park, QLD 4102 Great seafood restaurant available for dine in or takeaway. Kids’ menu includes calamari & chips or fish bites & chips. Receive one free kids’ meal with an adult meal purchased.

Wednesday PEPES MEXICAN JINDALEE 48 Goggs Road, Jindalee, Brisbane, QLD 4074 Pepe’s Mexican is a laid back, family run cantina serving generous portions of affordable Mexican food. Kids eat free with any adult meal over $15 and there is the added bonus of colouring-in pictures and crayons to keep little hands entertained whilst you finish your meal. Kids also receive a kids’ raspberry slushie or Mexican punch with each kids’ meal.

ALBANY CREEK TAVERN 730 Albany Creek Rd, Albany Creek, QLD 4035 Albany Creek Tavern is a family friendly bistro with great indoor–outdoor play areas and value meals. They also have regular family fun days with special offers for the kids, and can host kids’ parties! Get one kids’ meal free with every main meal purchased on a Wednesday, available lunch and dinner.

GLEN HOTEL 24 Gaskell St, Eight Mile Plains, Brisbane QLD 4113 Another hotel that has really embraced the family-friendly vibe, the kids’ playground at The Glen Hotel has slides and climbing equipment with a soft-fall floor. Kids eat free for every Wednesday with every main meal purchased. JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

PLACES Monday to Wednesday

Sunday to Wednesday

COORPAROO RSL

TOSCANI’S ROBINA

45 Holdsworth Street, Coorparoo, QLD 4151 Children 12 years and under eat free with the purchase of a main meal or member’s night special meal. Night specials include: chicken schnitzel & chips, curry of the day, and steak and chips. Offer available for dinner only.

Robina Town Centre, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina, QLD 4226 Great Italian and Mediterranean restaurant with a range of pizzas and pastas and more. Kids’ menu includes mini pizza, nuggets, cheeseburger, fish and chips and spaghetti bolognese. Kids 12 and under eat free from Sunday to Wednesday. One free kids’ meal for every adult purchasing a large pasta or risotto, main meal or pizza.

Monday to Thursday HOG’S BREATH CAFÉ 5 Petrie Terrace, Paddington, QLD 4064 At the Paddington branch of this popular chain, kids eat free Monday to Thursday each week. Offer is for one free kids’ meal per adult meal purchased valued over $20. Kids must be 12 or under.

Thursday CAPALABA TAVERN 30 Old Cleveland Road, Capalaba, QLD 4157 Bring the family for lunch or dinner on Thursdays and Club 4 Kids members eat free! Just purchase a main meal in the bistro to receive a kids’ meal.

Sunday CENTENARY TAVERN 96 Sumners Rd, Middle Park, QLD 4074 The Centenary Tavern is a family friendly pub that offers a large outdoor kids playground, indoor kids games room, and monthly Family Fun days with jumping castle, petting zoo and face painters. There are always activities available to keep kids entertained! Kids’ club members eat free every Sunday night with every adult meal purchased.

GOLD COAST Every night FOOD FANTASY The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach, QLD 4218 The most decadent buffet on the Gold Coast, Food Fantasy offers over 80 dishes from around the globe. Don’t miss the seafood feasts on Friday and Saturday night! Kids eat free every night of the week, one with every adult meal purchased.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

steak for the kids, kids eat free from 5.30pm each Monday with every paying adult. Kids’ meals include a soft drink or an ice-cream.

Monday & Tuesday HOG’S BREATH CAFÉ 146-150 Griffith Street, Coolangatta, QLD 4225 Unwind, relax and enjoy the trademark Hog’spitality at this upbeat restaurant with a large outdoor patio. Kids eat free all day Monday and Tuesday Offer is for one free kids’ meal per adult meal purchased valued over $20. Kids must be 12 or under.

Monday

Tuesday

FRENZY'S, SOUTHPORT SHARKS

LONE STAR TAVERN MERMAID WATERS

Corner Musgrave & Olsen Avenues, Southport, QLD 4215 Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Frenzy’s caters to the whole family with value dining and plenty of entertainment for the kids. Every Monday kids eat free from the buffet with every full-paying adult buffet purchased. The club also has the Wobbygong’s Kids Fun Zone – a purpose-built play area for children aged 3–12 years with a rock climbing wall, mini basketball court and PlayStations, so kids can burn off that energy whilst you enjoy your dessert! It gets busy so it’s worth booking ahead.

Corner Markeri & Sunshine Blvd, Mermaid Waters, QLD 4218 Take the stress out of Tuesdays with dinner at The Lonestar Tavern. Offering over six buffet dishes including everything from greens to chicken nuggets, and a kids’ entertainer every Tuesday night as well as an indoor and outdoor play area. Kids eat free Tuesday 5.30–8.30pm.

DOG & PARROT, ROBINA 2-6 Scottsdale Drive, Robina, QLD 4226 Popular amongst the locals, the Dog & Parrot has an affordable menu and a stack of kids’ activities on offer including colouring-in and weekly face painting. There is also a shaded outdoor play area and an indoor games room with PlayStation to keep little ones entertained. Club 4 Kids members under 12 eat free every Friday and Saturday night, where you get one kids’ meal with every adult meal purchased (minimum value $19).

BENOWA TAVERN 117 Ashmore Rd, Benowa, QLD 4216 Benowa Tavern is a family friendly venue situated on the canal and only minutes from Surfers Paradise. Featuring an indoor play area with PlayStations and a covered outdoor playground, all Club 4 Kids members eat free every Monday night 5.30–8.30pm. One free kids meal with any main meal purchase. Kids must be under 12 years of age.

SALTWATER CREEK HOTEL 40 Siganto drive, Helensvale, QLD 4212 With a delicious range of mains, burgers and salads for the grown-ups, and nuggets, fish or

MERMAID BEACH SLSC 172 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach, QLD 4218 Featuring a fabulous kids’ room with jungle gym and free PlayStations, you can sit back and relax whatever the weather, watching the kids play. Kids eat free Monday nights 5.30– 8pm. Receive one kids’ meal free per adult meal purchased. Kids meals come with a free zooper dooper. Kids’ busy bags are available for $2.50.

Wednesday ALLEYS RESTAURANT & BAR 165 Duringan Street, Currubin, QLD 4223 Located at Currumbin RSL, the awardwinning Alleys Restaurant prides itself on offering the best fresh, seasonal and delicious food. Kids aged 12 and under eat free every Wednesday night – one free kids’ meal with every adult member main meal ordered.

Thursday THE AZTEC & MONTEZUMAS, SURFERS PARADISE Aloha Apartments, 8-12 Trickett St, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217 Family run Mexican restaurant with free arts and crafts activities for kids such as colouring-in, making ponchos and counting in Spanish. Menu has all the usual Mexican food including burritos, tortillas, nachos, or kids can make their own fajitas. Kids eat free every Thursday with every main meal purchased. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

C O N TA C T U S T O D A Y TO DISCUSS YOUR UNIQUE F A M I LY E X P E R I E N C E

C R E AT I V E

family P O R T R A I T S

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LOCAL LIFE

BABES + PICNICS exciting,

overwhelming

Becoming a new mum is an exhausting and often experience. One local mum has found a way to support new mamas whilst also giving back to the community… and her initiative is taking the country by storm.

Lucia de Mello

We chat to to find out more… TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT BABES + PICNICS…

Babes + Picnics Australia/New Zealand is a first of its kind – the official 'Pay it Forward' Mama Tribe initiative! B+P hosts events around Australia and now also in New Zealand, which bring mums and their babes together once a month for a picnic-style gathering and other planned events. It can be very isolating and daunting being a mum, especially a first-time mum. These picnics provide mums with a safe, positive, judgement-free, purposeful and supportive environment to meet other mamas with the possibility of making new friends. The purpose of these gatherings is to support + connect + give back. Each month Australia-wide we support businesses and give back to local organisations and charities at our events. Each location has its own ambassadors who organise everything for their monthly event. We currently have 55 locations across Australia and eight in New Zealand. Our community grows every single month with new locations constantly popping up.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START THE INITIATIVE? My first picnic in October 2016 was inspired by other mums who had reached out to me through my personal social media pages. Local mums wanting to meet new people and make likeminded friends, and most of all wanting a place to feel included and supported. So, I created a Facebook page, named it Babes + Picnics Brisbane, invited everyone to it and created an event – a simple picnic in the park, bring your kiddies and some snacks to share. Surprisingly none of the mamas that had reached out to me turned up. After the event I received DMs and emails from some of the mums and began to learn more about anxiety, more specifically social anxiety as well as post-natal depression. Though I was a little put off creating another event after such a small turnout, the Facebook page was growing quite fast and I felt like I had to give it another chance, so I created a November event. Leading up to the event I found myself contacting friends who owned businesses and asked them if they could donate towards a free

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

raffle at the event and I would then promote them locally in return. I then contacted a local charity and asked how we could donate to them as a community of mothers. I brought the idea to the group and the feedback was overwhelming! The mums were so excited to be able to be part of something greater than just a general ‘meet up’! A chance for them to be able to contribute and give back was really the turning point for B+P and how it was all conceived. We went from an intimate picnic of seven friends in October, to 30 mums, 40 bags of donations for Share the Dignity and seven business prize donations for our free raffle at our November picnic!

HOW QUICKLY HAS IT GROWN FROM THERE? Pretty quickly! After our November picnic I shared it on my social media and the feedback was overwhelming. I reached out to some of my online friends and asked if they would be interested in becoming an ambassador for Babes + Picnics in their local area, and they all said yes! So, by December we had 10 events. By January we had 20 and it just kept growing. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

LOCAL LIFE From our online platforms I’ve had mums not only from Australia reach out to me, but also from New Zealand, UK, Europe, Brazil, USA, Singapore. Basically from all around the world! Something ground-breaking we created was the connection from on-screen friendships and followers to off-screen ‘real life’ meet ups. We find that so many mums who are friends online are finally meeting for the first time at our events. We have created that safe place for them to finally be able to do that!

THE PICNICS HAVE RAISED MONEY FOR SOME GREAT CHARITIES. HOW DO YOU FUNDRAISE? At our events we normally collect tangible items for our local charities, such as food, clothes and nappies. But we have had two nationwide fundraisers in 2017. In May we held Mother's Day Fundraising/ Awareness events and raised money for PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety Depression Australia). In October we fundraised $14,200 for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Month and raised so much awareness on the topics too! We donated to SANDS Australia (Stillbirth, Miscarriage & Newborn Infant Death) and Charlee's Basket Bereavement Hampers Inc. – beautiful gift hampers for families who have experienced a perinatal death (stillborn or infant death). We plan to host more nationwide fundraisers in 2018 for different causes and charities.

DO YOU FEEL THAT A SUPPORT NETWORK IS LACKING FOR TODAY’S NEW MUMS? Yes and no. There are support networks available, but like anything, there is never a one size fits all, so we can never have enough. The more

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networking and supportive events and groups we have, the better! Not all mums use social media either.

WHAT CAN WE DO TO BETTER SUPPORT NEW MUMS IN OUR COMMUNITY? Providing more services and opportunities for our mums. There needs to be more support specifically after the home visits and beyond the Child Health Nurse appointments. Also, connecting likeminded mothers and not simply mothers that had babies in a similar time period. Perhaps base more community events and groups on different interests. Maybe these types of things already exist, but we need to find a way to make sure our mums know about them.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE WITH OUR READERS? Always stay genuine and true to yourself. By simply being YOU can be your greatest asset to the world. Share your story! We all have a story, not one is ever the same and we never know who is listening/reading and how it may positively impact or inspire another person. You could change someones life by simple sharing your experiences. Always back yourself! And most importantly surround yourself with people that uplift you, support you and only ever want the best for you. Stick with those that want to see you shine! Your support network is your most powerful tool. If you want to know more about Babes + Picnics or attend their next event, just head to luciademello.com/babesandpicnics and check out the location tab and event calendar. You can also join the closed Babes & Picnics Facebook page allocated to your area, or follow any of the Babes + Picnics social media channels.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

CLASSIFIEDS Timezone Gold Coast

LITTLE BEACH BUMS

www.timezonegoldcoast.com.au (07) 5539 9500 Surfers Paradise & Coolangatta

littlebeachbums.com.au @little.beach.bums Across Sunshine Coast

Looking for hours of affordable fun for the whole family? Timezone Gold Coast features the best indoor family entertainment in the world. With 5000sqm in Surfers Paradise and 3000sqm in Coolangatta of the latest games and attractions including laser skirmish, dodgem cars, mini golf (Surfers Paradise store only) and Tenpin Bowling (Coolangatta store only). Open 7 days, 9 am till late.

Little Beach Bums makes choosing cloth for your baby (and our environment) a breeze, delivering freshly laundered organic cotton nappies to your doorstep for an affordable weekly price. Looking for the perfect gift for new parents or parents-soon-to-be? Visit our new online store for gift cards, subscriptions and a huge range of great baby products! Want to know more? Visit our website!

FIRST POINTE DANCE

Sunflower Florist Mooloolaba

facebook.com/firstpointdance 0435 079 108 Ballet, Hip Hop, Acrobatics & more! Join the dancing FUN with First Pointe! Affordable and fun filled all dance style classes for all ages, at 4 studio locations: Mudjimba, Buderim, Noosa & Kawana Island. Your child will benefit from professional tutoring and have fun at dancing with no pressure of exams or competitions and no expensive dance uniforms! Contact Principal Miss Laura to enrol today!

@sunflowerflorist.mba (07) 5309 6634 / sunflowerflorist.mba@gmail.com 12/34 River Esplanade, Mooloolaba Sunflower Florist is a florist striving to sustainably provide and deliver the freshest and finest flowers. We source locally made and grown gifts and plants for our shop to help support as many other small, local businesses as possible. Delivering Sunshine Coast-wide and able to cater for weddings, functions, funerals and more! 10% off orders until end April 18, quote code KOTC18.

BUBBA SLEEP

TALK PLUS

bubbasleep.com.au 0406 690 002 info@bubbasleep.com.au You don't have to go it alone Offering professional, supportive, non-judgemental help with sleep associations, routines, naps, night waking, early waking and more! With many years' experience working one-on-one with families, I evaluate each situation on a caseby-case basis to get to the bottom of why your little one isn’t sleeping and work with you to restore sleep to your household.

talkplus.com.au (07) 5491 5400 3/18 Mayes Avenue, Caloundra Happy, confident children achieving their best. We are here to help all children shine! Supporting your child to play, learn, connect and build friendships helps build the foundation for a bright future. We provide a range of allied health services to promote the development of all children: speech pathology, occupational therapy, psychology, dietetics and music therapy. See our therapy shop too!

LAMBS AT PLAY

GARDEN SPARKLE

lifepointe.org.au (07) 5443 1582 186 Wises Rd, Buderim Lambs at Play is a playgroup running at Lifepointe Baptist Church on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesdays from 9:30-11:30am. We offer a safe, stimulating play environment for the children – but more than that we offer a place where families feel loved and cared for. Our morning consists of free play, morning tea, craft, music and story time. More information at lifepointe.org.au or 54431582.

gardensparkle.com.au @gardensparkle 54 Shields Street, Cairns Create a mini mermaid garden! Nurture imaginations, inspire hearts and create precious memories. Choose from Fairy Kate's handpicked range of designer fairy garden kits, magical fairy houses and miniature accessories. Products shipped Australia wide and internationally. Afterpay + Zippay available. Fast and friendly service with lots of sparkle! Visit us next time you are in Cairns!

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS Funky Monkey Bars funkymonkeybars.com @funkymonkeybars 1300 912 198

zzLEEP MY BABY

The world's first free-standing, height-adjustable monkey bars, made here in Australia. Funky Monkey Bars is an Australian online outdoor play equipment company that delivers monkey bars, swings sets, ninja and fitness equipment to your door. Modular and portable, yet so strong and sturdy, you can continue to add and change equipment as your child grows in age and confidence.

zzleepmybaby.com 0409 622 424 Servicing Brisbane Zzleep My Baby is a sleep consultancy, offering a much specialised service to parents that want to recover their healthy sleep habits after having a child. We coach families all around the world complementing our services with advice & understanding. We also offer lactation advice and Infant Massage Courses. Book your free assesment online at www.zzleepmybaby.com.

THE LAUNDRY LADY

CHEEKY LITTLE MONKEYS

laundrylady.com.au @laundrylady_aus Servicing Gold Coast, Brisbane & Sunshine Coast As a mobile laundry service, at the Laundry Lady we understand your time is precious. The last thing you need to come home to is a pile of dirty laundry, clothes that need folding or truckloads of ironing! We will come to your home or workplace, pick up your laundry and take it away to be washed, dried, folded or ironed (whatever you need) and deliver back to you. How’s that for easy?

Are you planning an event and need entertainment for little people? Cheeky Little Monkeys has a range of exciting, fun and safe soft play equipment for hire. We provide a fully mobile service to our customers, delivering and assembling our equipment direct to your location. At the end of the event, Cheeky Little Monkeys will disassemble and remove from your location like we were never there.

THE MILK PANTRY

HEALTH NATURALLY CHIROpractic

milkpantry.com.au @themilkpantry sales@milkpantry.com.au The Milk Pantry’s extensive range of lactation products for busy breastfeeding mums includes cookies, brownies, shakes and hot chocolates. Options for those with food allergies are also available such as gluten free, dairy free and vegan options. Each product is lovingly hand-crafted and designed to nourish the body, taste great and includes special ingredients that target breast milk production.

SHAPEEZe ACTIVITY KITS shapeeze.com.au @shapeeze Simone from Shapeeze believes all children deserve a confident start to their school years. Shapeeze press-out, paste and colour activities help build fine motor and foundation skills whilst boosting independence – ready for big school! Best of all, your purchase helps Simone donate kits to child welfare organisations around Australia. shapeeze.com.au

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

cheekylittlemonkeysplay.com @softplay01 / 0437 718 066 Servicing the Sunshine Coast

(07) 5451 1121 @HealthNaturallyChiropractic Unit 7, 2-6 Beach Road, Maroochydore Have you even been curious about Chiropractic care for your family? Come and visit us for an Initial consult, Pre-care appointment and Report of findings – ON US – to see if we can help in any way. Give us a call on 07 5451 1121 or visit our office on the corner of Ocean Street and Beach Road. We look forward to seeing you. Regards Sam and Natise.

Put your business DIRECTLY in front of our readers! Contact your Business Development Manager today to secure your Classifieds spot: Sunshine Coast: 0424 577 706 / helen@shoremedia.com.au Brisbane: 0411 645 887 / rebecca@shoremedia.com.au Gold Coast: 0468 868 087 / bridget@shoremedia.com.au

SPECIAL OFFER: BOOK 5 ISSUES AND GET THE 6TH FREE!

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

REVIEWS

MINI PREP

THE NUT JOB 2: NUTTY BY NATURE (PG) In cinemas Thursday 11th January 2018 Synopsis: When the evil mayor of Oakton decides to bulldoze Liberty Park and build a dangerous amusement park in its place, Surly Squirrel and his ragtag group of animal friends need to band together to save their home, defeat the mayor, and take back the park. Voice cast: Will Arnett, Katherine Heigl, Maya Rudolph Get Cinebuzz tickets from just $10 for ‘The Nut Job 2: Nutty By Nature’ plus other great Family Flicks these school holidays at Event Cinemas. Not a member? Join now at eventcinemas.com.au. *for terms and conditions visit eventcinemas.com.au

$1.49 Recommended for ages three to five, this great little app facilitates learning through play. It has three simple activities based on numbers, letters and colours and the easy controls will keep kids coming back for more. It also offers a school readiness program, where pre-schoolers can learn their alphabet in 28 days.

MAZE RUNNER: THE DEATH CURE (CTC)

In cinemas Thursday 25th January 2018 Synopsis: In the epic finale to the Maze Runner saga, Thomas leads his group of escaped Gladers on their final and most dangerous mission yet. To save their friends, they must break into the legendary Last City, a WCKD-controlled labyrinth that may turn out to be the deadliest maze of all. Anyone who makes it out alive will get answers to the questions the Gladers have been asking since they first arrived in the maze. Starring: Nathalie Emmanuel, Dylan O’Brien, Katherine McNamara

LAUGH YOUR HEAD OFF AGAIN AND AGAIN!

Just when you thought you were safe, nine of Australia's favourite kids' authors are ready to get heads rolling - again with a wonderful collection of hilariously zany tales! Filled with delightfully quirky illustrations by Andrea Innocent, Laugh Your Head Off Again and Again will appeal to both girls and boys. Contributing authors are: Andy Griffiths, R. A. Spratt, Tristan Bancks, Tony Wilson, Meredith Costain, John Marsden, Alex Ratt, Deborah Abela and Alan Brough. For ages 8-11. RRP $19.99

GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS: AMAZING ANIMALS Highlighting the animal kingdom through the world of record breaking, Amazing Animals is a compendium of the cutest, strangest and most remarkable creatures. From the shortest to the tallest, slowest to the fastest. Even includes a quiz to determine your own pet’s IQ! RRP $24.99

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

FREAKS ON THE LOOSE By Leigh Hobbs

It's Miss Corker's first day at her new school and she is looking forward to meeting her class. Here are the hilarious, anarchic antics of One-eyed Eileen, her 4F classmates and their long-suffering teacher in one collectable volume. Freaks on the Loose is the latest book from multi-award winning author and Australia’s Children’s Laureate (2016; 2017) Leigh Hobbes. For ages 7-11+. RRP $16.99

GRANDMA FORGETS By Paul Russell and Nicky Johnston

Over the years, the little girl has built up a treasure trove of memories of time spent with Grandma. But now, Grandma can’t remember those times. Sometimes Dad is sad because he must hold onto memories for both him and his mother, but fortunately his daughter is only too happy to help him make new memories to share. This is a warm, hopeful story about a family who sometimes needs to remind their grandmother a little more often than they used to about how much they care. For ages 4-8. RRP $24.99 kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

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