Kids on the Coast Magazine - Gold Coast - Issue 52

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

ISSUE 52 September/October 2014 GOLD COAST

! e e r F

The family budget

Easing into a return to work

Nature as a Teacher

Children and vision

52 Contents ISSUE

Av a

September/October 2014

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old yrs 0 1 s, 4

FROM THE EDITOR

6

WHAT’S NEWS

8

FEATURE: The family budget

14 CHECK THIS OUT 16 THE ‘P’ FILES: Returning to work 20 CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Find out what’s happening on the Gold Coast during September & October 22 EDUCATION: Nature as a teacher 30 GOOD HEALTH: Children and vision 35 COAST LIFE 36 CONVERSATION: Chantelle Ellem 38 REVIEWS

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: SANDRA SMITH, MAXINE ARTHUR, JESSICA JANE SAMMUT, MEREDITH GRAHAM COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: VERVE PORTRAITS

Kids on the Coast Magazine - Gold Coast

@kidsonthecoast

kidsonthecoastmagazine

KIDS on the Coast/in the City

issuu.com/kidsonthecoastmagazine

Printed with vegetable/soy based inks on paper supplied using pulp sourced from sustainable forests and manufactured to environmentally accredited systems.

WE ENCOURAGE RECYCLING. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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mother

WELCOME

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kids on the coast | in th

MEDIA PUBLISHED BY Mother Goose Media PTY LTD PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562 PHONE: 1300 430 320 FAX: 07 5442 7253 ABN: 86 473 357 391 WEB: www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

EDITORIAL / PRODUCTION PUBLISHER: Toni Eggleston EDITOR: Jackie Goldston ADMINISTRATION: Kellie Kruger admin@mothergoosemedia.com.au

I love September and October on the Gold Coast. For me it is the perfect weather… not to hot and not too cold. It is a great time to get out and about and enjoy the many advantages that we have living in such an amazing environment. And the wonderful thing about the Coast is that we have an array of activities that cost nothing or very little to enjoy.

This edition we examine how to manage your family budget. The Government has been calling for us all to tighten our belts so we help you take a look at where your money is going and offer a few simple adjustments to help you spend less and still live well. We also delve into the experience of going back to work after taking time out with your family. It can be a nervous time for any parent starting a new challenge in the workforce or even going back to the same role after being on maternity leave.

Speaking of new challenges, I am leaving Kids on the Coast magazine after more than 3 years. I am going back to my roots of strategic marketing. I am leaving with a heavy heart as Mother Goose Media (the owner of KOTC) is an exciting and ever changing working environment, filled with passionate people.

As always, our spring edition is full of fabulous articles, news, reviews and information. We would love to hear what you think. All of our articles are online and you can comment and discuss the topics on our website or Facebook page. We add topical news stories daily as well as blogs, Visit our website new articles and movie, product, app and book reviews. Do you have something that you want to share? Please feel free to contact our team via Facebook.com/ kidsonthecoastmagazineGoldCoast, our website or email. Don’t forget to sign up for our What’s On eNews that comes out weekly at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au.

Jackie Goldston, Editor in Chief

- on the coast

- in the city

HOLIDAEY eGUID AVAILABLE

SEPT 19

PTEMBER 20

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BURSTING WITH SPRING-HOLIDAY ACTIVITY IDEAS Download the Ultimate Guide to School Holiday Fun

PRINTING: Print Works, 07 3865 4433 All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications is 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 is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Feedback/comments/suggestions?

Send to: editorial@mothergoosemedia.com.au.

We aim to reply to all correspondence but don’t guarantee to do so. Letters to the editor may be edited for length or clarity.

DISTRIBUTION Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across South East Queensland.

Kids on the Coast (Gold Coast edition) is a free publication circulating over 18,000 copies from Tweed Heads to Coomera, including Hinterland.

Separate editions cover the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane.

Kids on the Coast (Sunshine Coast edition) is a free publication circulating over 20,000 copies from Caloundra to Noosa, including hinterland.

For distribution enquiries phone: 1300 430 320 or email: admin@mothergoosemedia.com.au

ADVERTISING Call 1300 430 320 or email your Sales Account Manager.

GOLD COAST Nicole - gc@kidsonthecoast.com.au SUNSHINE COAST advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au BRISBANE Joanne - advertising@kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au BOOST EXPOSURE OF YOUR EVENT IN OUR NEXT GUIDE! Call 1300 430 320

4

GRAPHIC DESIGN: Michelle Craik & Alana Falk

Kids in the City (Brisbane edition) is a free publication circulating over 20,000 copies from North Lakes to Springwood and covering all suburbs to Jindalee.

ING SPR

SE

PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT: Alana Falk production@mothergoosemedia.com.au

Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

- on the coast

- in the city www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Children & Adolescents GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY Does your child worry excessively about certain things? Does your child engage in senseless & time consuming habits, routines or rituals? Does your child constantly seek reassurance from you? Your child may be experiencing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) & Griffith University can help.

(07) 56788317 or email the OCD Busters Team on ocdbustersgc@griffith.edu.au

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Whatsnews DID Stay up to date with your local community news. If you have any unique news that you’d like to share, please contact our editor at editorial@kidsonthecoast.com.au

Visit our website for more news, www.kidsonthecoast.com.au/news

CELEBRATE 10 YEARS OF JDRF WALK TO CURE GOLD COAST

Sunday 12th October. The Walk to Cure Diabetes is the world's largest event raising funds for type 1 diabetes (T1D) research.

The diabetes community takes steps together in capital cities as well as many regional centres and small towns, to raise awareness and funds for T1D research. JDRF Walk to Cure Gold Coast started 10 years ago when Diabetes Support Group Coordinator, Nicole Callow, asked if local diabetes families would like to gather at a park in Broadbeach and have their own Gold Coast Walk. That year approximately five families turned up, they walked, had lunch and agreed they should do it all again next year. From there it grew, from five families to around 800 people last year. This will be their 10th Walk and the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes team are going all out to make it bigger and better than ever. This year Walkers will enjoy a jumping castle, slide, animal farm, face painter, raffle, Jelly Bean Guessing Comp and a free bag of goodies for every Walk child.

Register online now at www.jdrf.org.au/walk

ONE IN SIX QUEENSLAND KIDS SKIP BREAKFAST

Cancer Council is calling on parents to boost the brekkie habits of Queensland kids, with figures showing one in six school children across the state regularly skip breakfast. The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows 15.9 per cent of Queensland school children skip breakfast, above the national average of 14.8 per cent. Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said missing the first meal of the day was a worrying trend that was getting worse.

“Making breakfast a non-negotiable meal will give children a better chance of having a healthier diet overall, reducing their risk of a range of chronic diseases long term.” Having a poor diet can cause children to become overweight or obese, increasing the risk of a range of chronic diseases including some cancers. And research reinforces the importance of breakfast in improving brain function in children – they can focus better, are more alert and able to concentrate while at school. The key is to aim for a breakfast high in fibre, low in saturated fat and full of vitamins and minerals. See our website for great suggestions on quick, nutritious and delicious brekkie options.

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Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

YOU

KNOW The first letters of the months July through to November spell JASON

QUEENSLAND’S BIGGEST POOL PARTY

On Saturday 13 September 2014 the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre celebrates its opening with Queensland’s biggest pool party. This free community event will have plenty of entertainment, activities, food and fun for everyone. Collect your free commemorative swimming cap on arrival and be a part of the Guinness Book of World Records attempt for most swimming caps in one location. The Gold Coast Aquatic Centre is the venue for the swimming and diving competition for the 2018 Commonwealth Games. The upgrade includes a new 10-lane 50 metre competition pool, new learn-to-swim pool, elevated spectator concourse/viewing terrace, community meeting rooms and event facilities, and refurbishment of the eight-lane 50 metre pool and dive pool. Take a guided tour of the first new venue completed for the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Don’t miss out - be a part of our city’s history by coming along to the official opening of this magnificent facility!

To register, go to www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au.

SURFERS PARADISE KIDS WEEK

Each time you see a

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Toilets use

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About 90% of the world’s population kisses

Stand aside parents — this is a week where kids get to rule. Kids can have hours of fun as rides, face painting, animals and fireworks transform Surfers Paradise into a family playground from 20-27 September. Now running as a week-long event, Kids Week will be loaded with fun activities for all ages with plenty to see and do, including balloon twisting, cupcake decorating, character appearances and loads more! Throughout the weekend, the main stage will be the place to be with live performances

by Peppa Pig, plus special Paradise Resort and Currumbin Wildlife shows! During the week, don’t miss Lego day, craft day, animal day, music day, and superheroes & fairy tales day. All the music and entertainment takes place on stage along the Surfers Paradise Foreshore, and all the hands-on stuff is down by the beach. Presented by Zagames Paradise Resort Gold Coast, 20-27 September. Free. More info see www.surfersparadise.com www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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Featuring

FEATURE

THE FAMILY BUDGET

By Sandra Smith THE GOVERNMENT IS CALLING FOR US ALL TO TIGHTEN OUR BELTS, SO WE NEED TO BE PREPARED TO CUT EXPENSES AND LIVE MORE FRUGALLY. IF WE TAKE A LOOK AT WHERE OUR MONEY IS GOING AND MAKE A FEW SIMPLE ADJUSTMENTS, WE CAN SPEND LESS AND STILL LIVE WELL. BY CHANGING OUR SPENDING HABITS, WE’RE ABLE TO GET THE BILLS PAID ON TIME AND HAVE THE BENEFIT OF EXTRA CASH, LESS STRESS AND STRONGER FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS.

TIPS FOR SAVING MONEY

Australian families spend up to $1,900 per week on general living expenses, according to ASIC’s MoneySmart website. The biggest household expense for Australians is housing, followed by transport and recreation. Some of our costs are fixed, but we can look at saving money on variable household expenses.

LOWER ENERGY COSTS - Reduce power bills by turning appliances off at the wall when not in use, and use the clothes dryer sparingly. Invest in insulation to minimise cooling and heating costs for your home. Install a water-efficient shower head, have two-minute showers and wash clothes with cold water.

REVIEW LEISURE COSTS - Precious resources can trickle away unnoticed on poor choices. You don’t have to quit all the fun stuff, just reduce spending on extras like alcohol, takeaway coffee and magazines. Plan a picnic in the park, invite friends and family to play cricket on the beach or sit down with the kids for a game of Monopoly.

LIMIT SPENDING ON GIFTS - Set an affordable limit for Christmas and birthday gifts and stick to it. Don’t get caught up in a credit card spending frenzy; the extra debt often takes months to pay off.

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Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

CUT GROCERY BILLS - Plan ahead and take a shopping list to the supermarket to avoid impulse buys. Buy generic brands and shop fortnightly to pick up bulk-buy bargains. Support local growers by buying fresh produce at a farmers’ market.

COOK MEALS AT HOME - Take your lunch to work and send the kids to school with packed lunches. Look for recipes that use cheaper ingredients like beans, vegetables and pasta, and try baking your own biscuits and cakes if you have time. As well as being economical, home-cooked meals are more nourishing and tasty.

USE ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORT - Cars are costly, with insurance, registration and petrol on top of financing costs. Combine shopping and business errands into one trip or leave the car at home. Try car pooling, walking, riding a bicycle or using public transport instead.

GENERATE INCOME FROM YOUR HOME - Think outside the square and look creatively for ways to save some money at home. Plant vegetables in your backyard, rent out that spare room, turn a homebased hobby into a small business or start a weekend market stall.

RECYCLE - De-clutter your home with a garage sale and turn unwanted items into cash. Look for good quality second-hand goods and make big savings. Have a “fashion swap party” with friends, where clothes, shoes and jewellery can be exchanged and shared with friends.

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FEATURE

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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FEATURE

SETTING UP A FAMILY BUDGET

Creating a budget for the first time and realising just how much money is needed to cover even the basic bills can be a shock. Is our spending greater than our income? If it is, then we’re headed for a financial crisis.

Uniting Care Community financial counsellor Mark Bates says the more realistic the budget, the better. While the family budget doesn’t have to be carved in stone, Mark advises that even if it’s basic, it gets us thinking about our spending and our priorities.

Maintain a spending diary to keep track of expenditure. Be honest and write down every expense, including the small purchases.

Those cappuccinos and takeaway meals could be costing more than you think.

“Spending diaries are good because they make your budget accurate and they also give you time to reflect on what you’re actually buying,” Mark says.

The Raising Children Network website (www.raisingchildren.net.au) provides links to budget planners and money guides. There are also phone apps available to help with budgeting.

SPENDING PRIORITIES Mark says the most important priority for families is always housing, followed by medication and keeping the electricity and telephone connected. He says food is way down the line, because there are charities that can help with that.

“Once you’ve paid those four things, what you choose to spend your money on is your choice, but you’ve got to cover those four,” he says. “The first one, a roof over your head, is the single most important thing. Go without food if you have to, but pay your rent.”

People are much more savvy than they were three or four years ago, says Mark. They have already switched off the extra fridge or turned the air conditioning down a notch, but the cost of living is still rising.

“If you look at the national figure, electricity usage is declining; people are using less. Consumption is down and prices are still up, and that’s what people are finding frustrating,” Mark says.

“Whatever they do doesn’t make any difference; the bills are going up and up.”

Mark advises that the old-fashioned values that we were brought up with actually still work, and he says that family and friends are more important than the latest iPhone.

“Focus on the things that you need,” he says.

DEALING WITH A FINANCIAL CRISIS

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says. “The problem is that they are all things that just happen to you. You’ve got no control.”

In his role as financial counsellor, Mark provides people with information, support and possible advocacy. He may speak to creditors on the client’s behalf and walk people through the next steps in managing the crisis. [Call: 1800 007007 to speak to a Uniting Care Community financial counsellor.]

Mark says there has been a big change in the demographic of families approaching Uniting Care Community for financial counselling, with more middle class and affluent families needing help. These people often have greater ambitions, explains Mark, but things can go terribly wrong if there’s a crisis. He warns that relying on credit and moving money around will catch up with them eventually.

“They’ll have, generally, some more financial skills in the first place, and what that often means is they can actually access credit for longer. They can build the house of cards and it takes a bit longer for it to collapse,” Mark says.

Long-term unemployment can lead to a loss of self-confidence and feelings of failure, particularly in men, who traditionally see themselves as the breadwinners. Mark says that families in financial hardship also tend to become very isolated.

“Having no money is lonely. That’s part of the reality,” he says.

“Their kids don’t go on school trips. They themselves tend to stay home because they can’t go out and spend money. And then they’ll feel guilty if they do go out.”

COPING WITH JOB LOSS

Making ends meet on a limited income when circumstances change isn’t easy. Sunshine Coast mother-of-four Amy has had to survive on a reduced income after a serious work injury in 2010 left her with a permanent impairment. Amy’s husband, Michael, also had to give up work to care for her.

Raising four boys on a low income has been a challenge for Amy and Michael. They are careful with money, but they find it hard to stick to their budget and they often dip into their savings to get through the week. Rent is $420 a week and their last electricity bill was over $800, so covering these expenses is a struggle. Their eldest son, aged 17, is now working, but Amy says there are constant outlays for the other children, who are aged 14, nine and six.

To get by, Amy tries to cut back wherever she can. She does a lot of home cooking and makes school lunches for the kids; she buys meat and vegetables in bulk and stocks up her chest freezer; and she uses shopper dockets and buys petrol using discount cards.

Even with careful budgeting, there may still be a crisis due to circumstances that are beyond our control.

The family goes beach camping in their camper trailer during the school holidays, and for a special treat they will go to the Gold Coast theme parks using discounted season passes. There is an initial outlay of money for the passes, but it’s an affordable day out because they can pack their own lunches and drinks.

“We can say with reasonable confidence that there are only three things that ever push someone into financial crisis: end of a relationship, ill-health, job loss, or a combination of all three,” Mark

Amy’s youngest boy plays soccer, funded by the Queensland Government’s Get Started program, which provides a voucher that helps pay for club membership or sporting fees.

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FEATURE

“We used that for him to do soccer, which is great because that paid for everything except his uniform,” Amy explains. The other two children want to do gymnastics but Amy says they just can’t afford it.

Michael was a landscaper prior to Amy’s injury, and though he’s now able to return to work, he’s having difficulty finding a job.

“There’s just no work around. We’re both 35 and the older you get the harder it is,” Amy says.

Amy is worried about the impact on her family of the changes outlined in the 2014-15 Federal Government budget. “We’re pretty scared about it at the moment,” she says. “If it does come, I think we might be in a bit of trouble.”

MANAGING WITH A NEW BABY

Paid Parental Leave provides financial support for new mums so they can have time off work after their baby is born, but when these payments finish, there are tough decisions to be made about work and child care.

TOP TIPS TO SAVE MONEY › Turn appliances off at the wall › Switch off lights when not in use › Install a water-efficient shower head › Wash clothes with cold water › Plan your errands and save on petrol › W here possible leave the car at home: walk or ride a bike › Cut down on alcohol and coffee › Have a garage sale › Rent out a spare room › Cook meals at home WHATEVER OUR FINANCIAL SITUATION, THERE’S NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT TO SET UP A BUDGET AND CUT BACK ON HOUSEHOLD SPENDING. THIS WILL PREPARE US FOR ANY CHANGES THAT MAY LIE AHEAD, ON A NATIONAL OR A PERSONAL LEVEL.

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› Take a packed lunch to work and school › Buy generic brand groceries › Go grocery shopping once a fortnight › Support your local farmers’ market › Limit spending on Christmas and birthday gifts › Review your mortgage every 3-5 years › Revisit your mobile, internet and energy plans

Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

Local mum Katie had to return to part-time work when her baby, Charlie, was six months old and her parental leave payments stopped. Katie’s partner, Ben, is a fisherman who relies on a percentage of the catch, but his income fluctuates and is dependent on the weather and season.

With the birth of Charlie, there are now four children in the family, and Katie says they can’t survive on one wage. The family finances have improved since Katie returned to work, though there is now the cost of child care to take into account.

As well as paying their mortgage and car loan, Katie and Ben also maintain an investment property, so getting all the bills paid on time requires good money management. Katie says they don’t have a strict budget, but they know how much has to be in their account at the end of the month to cover the major bills.

Their household living costs are kept under control through a range of strategies. At home Katie has cloth nappies and she only uses disposables when she is out or when Charlie goes to day care. Katie doesn’t buy any luxury things for the baby and she goes without personal items, like her favourite brand of make-up, though she admits that is hard.

“As a mum, you tend to miss out on a lot of things. You don’t get the stuff you would normally get,” she says.

Instead of going to a restaurant for a meal, the family will get takeaway food for a treat, but it will be McDonalds for the kids and noodles for the adults. “We haven’t been out for dinner as a family or even just as a couple for a long time. It’d be a good six months to a year,” she says.

Shopping around for bargains also makes the money stretch a bit further, so Katie does her research and buys good quality secondhand baby equipment on Gumtree or eBay when she can. She bought two little activity tables, a pram and other things.

For Katie and Ben, it’s the small savings in a lot of different areas that make their money go further. During school holidays the older children may go camping for a few days with their Dad, and they go to the movies once or twice over the holidays, but it will be at an independent cinema where the tickets are cheaper.

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Cleverly converts to a change mat.

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Your car-obsessed child can turn every surface into a roadway or highway.

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Capture memories or create new ones.

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1. DIGIBIRDS: It’s no wonder these interactive birdy friends won Toy of the Year 2014. These virtual pets chirp, tweet, sing and move, responding to their owners’ whistles (using a whistle ring that doubles as a perch).

Put two or more together and they sing in unison. From $14.95. In stores and online. 2. REVERSIBLE NAPPY CHANGE BAG: This Lyn’s Labels nappy bag is sure to inject some style into your baby items. The waterproof, Italian faux leather bag cleverly converts to a change mat, a stylish tote and great sports bag and comes with key chain and petite traveller bag. RRP: $198.50 (plus postage) www.lynslabel.com.au 3. NO FUSS: We love the adorable Amelie's World's handmade 'no fuss terrariums. A beautiful addition to any room. $100 from Podie Pie, Nambour. www.facebook.com/podiepie 4. CUTE ALERT! Your little one will stand out in a crowd in this super cute hand made singlet from Podie Pie in Nambour. Check out their full range in store. RRP $15. www.facebook.com/podiepie 5. LOVE LOCKETS: Whether you’re capturing memories or creating new ones, Love Lockets is the perfect way to tell your story with interchangeable lockets and charms. Prices start from $6. Available in stores or online www.lovelockets.com.au 6. ROAD TAPE: Now your car-obsessed child can turn every surface into a roadway or highway. This amazing tape will stick to everything: chairs, tables, shelves and floors. Donkey My First Autobahn Car Track Tape builds 33m of roadways and comes with a tiny toy car. Train tape also available. From $19.95, available online.

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Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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THE P FILES

“WHAT IF I CAN’T DO MY JOB AS WELL AS I USED TO?”

“CAN I MAKE IT THROUGH A DAY IN THE OFFICE?” “WILL MY LITTLE ONE BE OKAY WITHOUT ME?”

“WHAT IF I AM STUCK IN TRAFFIC ON THE WAY TO CHILDCARE?”

HI HO HI HO IT’S BACK TO WORK I GO

By Maxine Arthur

It is normal for mothers returning to work to feel anxious about the many financial and logistical issues that need to be considered.

Emotions such as guilt about leaving a child in someone else’s care and a loss of confidence in your work skills can also be difficult to deal with. Returning to work may be even harder if you have been out of the workforce until your children reach school age or older.

You may be returning to work for financial reasons, the most common reason given in surveys. Perhaps you wish to continue in a career that you have worked hard to advance in or you are itching to try a new career path. Many mums miss the mental stimulation and social interaction of working outside the home.

CREATING A WORK–LIFE BALANCE THAT WORKS FOR YOU Emma Walsh is the founder and director of Mums at Work, a provider of return to work guidance that is family friendly. Emma recommends that you: “Look at all the aspects of returning to work to get a picture of what work–life happiness is for you and always make sure you prioritise your self-care (nurture and support that you need). Getting that balance right by figuring out what you need in advance is the key.”

“To work out your balance, consider the following aspects: finances (e.g. does your family need you to go back to work and if so, what is the minimum salary you need?), childcare (what sort of care do you want for your baby/child?), what is it you want out of your next career move, and do you need support and guidance to work through these things to make the best choice possible for you and your family?”

“Ask yourself what you can do to look after yourself. Be mindful of the foods you are eating and make time for relaxation activities, whether that is watching a movie, reading a good book or having a massage.”

“However you choose to blend your career with your new family, it’s about working out what’s most important to you and for your future career and life. Every family is different: what works for one is different for another. Achieving ‘work and life happiness’ is about setting your own goals, running your own race, and then calling your fans and supporters for help along the journey and giving it in return!

But you have to be prepared to adjust your plans and expectations as your children grow, and as you and your work change.”

16

Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

PEACE OF MIND MEANS FINDING QUALITY CHILDCARE You cannot return to work successfully if you are worrying constantly about the welfare of your child. But first let’s separate the perfectly understandable fact that you will miss being together all day from the ‘mummy guilt’ of leaving your child in someone else’s care. Yes, you may both feel anxious about separation, though the evidence shows that most children find it less stressful than their mothers and it does get easier for you when you see that your child is happy.

As for the guilt, don’t buy into it and don’t allow others to burden you with it. Quality childcare can play a positive role in your child’s development. You will soon realise that your child is benefitting from new social and learning environments.

A US study looked at the influence of both childcare and the home environment on over 1,000 typically-developing children.

They concluded that children who attend childcare have the same outcomes as children who are cared for at home. Whether a child attends day care or not, it is the family that has a major impact on their child’s development, with the parents’ interactions with the child being a critically important factor.

The more difficult issues with childcare are availability and cost.

Waiting lists can be long, and locations may be inconvenient to work and home. Care for Kids, a leading childcare organisation, reported in its 2014 survey that 30 per cent of working parents say that working is financially unviable due to the high cost of childcare. Many women report that they are working solely to advance their careers and are not financially better off.

Emma suggests that childcare is the number one obstacle for mums returning to work.

“Finding the right care for your child around the times you need to work is difficult. Many families do not have extended family nearby to lean on for childcare and so they have to rely on paid care. Choosing childcare for your baby can be one of the most important decisions you make as a new parent. Therefore, it is important that you thoroughly research your available options. Try discussing the types of childcare you may prefer (and can afford) with your partner or family, as well as what might suit your family’s needs (and that of your baby).”

“Whoever you choose to care for your child, you must feel

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

17

THE P FILES comfortable with your decision. The primary goal for most parents is that their child will be cared for in a nurturing, safe and stimulating environment. Planning is the key to a successful placement and you should start this planning well in advance of you needing the care. Many childcare centres and Family Day Care schemes have long waiting lists, and other options such as selecting a nanny can be very time consuming.”

“Visiting and talking to the carers will be your best chance of finding the perfect place for your child. If possible, try to drop into the centre or Family Day care home outside of your appointment time so that you can see how things ‘really’ work and try to visit at a couple of different times of the day. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’re entrusting these people with your baby. For example, ask to see the meal prepared for that day, take a look at the nappy change area and assess its cleanliness, ask to see the baby’s sleep area, ask questions about how the staff would respond to a specific first aid or safety situation.”

PLANNING A CONFIDENT RETURN TO WORK Tips and tricks (adapted from Mums@Work website)

• B e organised, create a return to work and ‘to do’ list. Identify what you will need to tend to, what support will you need, how you will make the transition back. Be realistic and give yourself the time and space needed to work through it.

• R eview your life and career plans; what’s important to you since becoming a parent? What interests you and what would you like to gain from return to work (RTW)? How do you see family and friends fitting in?

• T ell your family and friends you’re planning on RTW. Get in touch with past colleagues and associates too. Ask parents you know who have RTW and ask how they did it. Join network groups you think will help with your RTW such as Linked In and Facebook or industry associations.

• S et aside a certain amount of time per week to work on your RTW. When back at work expect the first few months back to be full of ups and downs, it’s normal. Use the mum-grapevine to vent the lows and get ideas to make it easier.

• M ake a list of all the things you’ve done since becoming a parent: the skills you’ve acquired; the extra-curricular study or unpaid work etc and include these in your resume. Don’t leave an unexplained gap. Format your resume to highlight your strengths and experience not your absence.

Mothers returning to work can become stressed very quickly if they try to do everything at home they were doing before.

Research shows that men aren’t always taking on more responsibility for home and children when their partners return to work. Talk to your husband about sharing chores, determining together which ones are absolutely necessary for the household to function and which can be done less frequently. Consider home delivered internet supermarket shopping.

Emma suggests: “Have a discussion with your partner and brainstorm possibilities such as: tag team drop-off and pick-ups, get the grandparents to do one pick-up a week, prepare lunches and lay out breakfast the night before.”

Make changes to family routines, including childcare, some weeks before you start work. Once you start back, concentrate on establishing new work and family routines before taking on any extras such as volunteering and socialising. Learn to say ‘No’ to avoid overload.

Remember to organise back-up care for when your child is unwell.

Do not underestimate how many bugs your child may pick up in early childcare days.

NEGOTIATING A FAMILY-FRIENDLY RETURN TO WORK Be confident in asking your employer for ‘reasonable’ job arrangements that will allow you to meet your responsibilities as a parent of preschool age children.

Emma says that employers are increasingly open to such negotiation.

“Largely due to Australia’s labour skill shortages in the last decade and our rapidly aging population, organisations are acknowledging the need to offer flexible working arrangements in order to attract and retain talented people.”

“Employees have increased access to flexible work under the National Employment Standards (NES). Working parents with children under school age have the right to request a flexible work arrangement. Employers have an obligation to investigate the viability of the flexible work request and formally respond, in writing, to the employee’s request. The employer may not reject the employee’s request unless it is deemed ‘unreasonable’.”

• W e are often our own worst enemy. Have confidence in your skills and experience and the chances are others will too! Remember, being a parent is often the toughest job many of us will ever do — your patience, negotiation skills and adaptability will come in handy when back at work.

“However, access to flexibility is a high priority for many employees, not just parents and this is also reflected in the NES. Recent research reveals that with 67 per cent of employers in Australia using flexible working arrangements to retain their employees, it is now the most widely used staff engagement strategy.”

• S eek out a career counsellor to help you figure out what you want and how to find it. Register on job boards that support parents find flexible employment such as www.careermums.com.au

USEFUL LINKS

• T hink about your flexibility needs; propose a few options to your manager and how you see it working; present the benefits and how you plan to overcome any drawbacks; ask your manager for a meeting to discuss and to provide their response in writing.

• G et out there, have a go and learn from setbacks. If things don’t always go according to plan then review your options and reassess next steps.

18

SHARING THE WORKLOAD

Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

Mums at Work provides return to work guidance and job search skills. Under the Resources tab you will find a wealth of practical information. They also sell a Return to Work Toolkit for Parents for $39.95. See www.mumsatwork.com.au Career Mums is an employment site for working parents and parents returning to work. Under the Candidates and Resources headings at the foot of the Home page there is much useful advice for job seekers. See www.careermums.com.au

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

19

Gold Coast - on the coast

CALENDAR

EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

FUNSAIL DAYS

GOLD COAST ACTIVE AND HEALTHY PROGRAM More green time, less screen time. Get the kids moving and having fun during the school holidays with this program. There are hundreds of activities. To find out what’s on visit www.cityofgoldcoast.com.au/ schoolholidays

SEPT 7

VIBE YOUTH PROGRAM Being active is a fun and positive experience for teenagers and there are lots of great weekly activities on offer in this program just perfect for teenagers. There is a heap of cool events on offer from skate, craft, stand up paddle boarding and more.

Details: 5581 5233 or email activehealthygc@goldcoast.qld.gov.au www.gcparks.com.au

LIBRARY EVENTS Check out your local library!

Did you know that Council libraries have free events, classes, workshops and activities for babies and children.

Details: www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/library/ events-activities-66.html EVERY SUNDAY

FARM DISCOVERY DAY Where: Currumbin Community Farm Campus, 1226 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Valley When: 10am to 2pm Currumbin Community Farm Campus is open free to the public every Sunday from 10am to 2pm.

Details: www.currumbinfarmschool.eq.edu.au SATURDAYS

DRAX4KIDS THE SHOW Where: Draculas, Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach When: Midday See live rock music, special effects, comedy, puppetry, dancing, interactive games, and an amazing aerial circus!

Details: www.draculas.com.au

20

SEPTEMBER 14 SEPTEMBER 12 TO 21

SWELL KIDS WORKSHOPS Where: The Green Room, Alley Board Riders Club House, Cnr Durangan St and Pacific Pde, Currumbin When: 10am to 4pm Children will be able to unleash their imagination with green modelling clay.

Details: Gold Coin Donation. www.swellsculpture.com.au/pages/ education-and-workshops.php SEPTEMBER 13

BONOGIN VALLEY SPRING FAIR Where: Davenport Park, Bonogin When: 10am to 3pm As well as 30+ stall holders attending on the day, the fair includes food vendors, rides, games, free entertainment, an equestrian show and the annual gumboot throwing competition!

Details: Free. www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/ bonogin-valley-spring-fair-22345.html

Where: 1226 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Valley When: 9:30am to 2pm Market Stalls; Food; Plants; Rock Climbing; Animal Feeding; Jumping Castle.

Details: Free Entry. www.currumbinfarmschool.eq.edu.au SEPTEMBER 22 TO SEPTEMBER 26

SEPTEMBER 16

MR AND MRS POTATO HEAD SHOW AND COOKING WITH KIDS WORKSHOP Where: Pacific Fair, Centre Court, Ground Floor Arcade outside Myer When: 9:30am & 11:30am, Workshop between 9:30am & 12:30pm, Meet and Greet 10:30am Join Mrs and Mrs Potato Head in a singing dancing show. After the show kids can make their very own sushi treat to eat.

Details: Free. www.pacificfair.com.au

iPad Creativity Workshop

Father’s Day

20to21

TO SEPTEMBER 11

GOLD COAST EISTEDDFOD

CURRUMBIN VALLEY SPRING FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER 22, 25 & 30

KIDS WEEK

WILDLIFE RANGER EXPERIENCE Where: David Fleay Wildlife Park, West Burleigh When: Phone for time (3 hours) Sneak a peek into the exciting world of a wildlife ranger at David Fleay Wildlife Park!

Details: $20.10 per child. Bookings required.

07 5576 2411 between 9 am and 4 pm.

Where: The Arts Centre Gold Coast, Robina and Albert Waterways Community Centres The largest competition of its kind in the country, individual entrants, 140 primary and secondary schools and more than 70 dance studios participate in various categories, which include solo and group dance, piano, strings and wind, instrumental groups, bands, orchestras, vocal, choral and special needs.

Details: www.goldcoasteisteddfod.com.au

Where: Evandale Parklands, cnr Crombie Avenue and Bundall Road, Bundall When: 10am to 4pm Performances on 4 stages; International Food; Art & Craft; Children’s Rides. A fun day out for the whole family!

Details: Free parking and entry. www.goldcoastculturalfestival.org

Where: Surfers Paradise Beach & Foreshore A FREE family friendly event in Surfers Paradise celebrating all things kids! Kids Week will be loaded with fun activities for all ages with plenty to see and do, including balloon twisting, cupcake decorating, character appearances and loads more! Visit the website for more information.

Details: www.surfersparadise.com/whatson/major-events/kids-week

SEPTEMBER 12 & OCTOBER 10

SEPTEMBER 14

SEPTEMBER 20 TO 21

BLUE LIGHT DISCO Where: Gold Coast PCYC, 180 Monaco Street, Broadbeach Waters When: 7pm to 9:30pm With a no pass out policy and Police supervision your child will have a fun and safe evening. Primary school age only.

Details: www.goldcoastpcyc.com/new/disco SEPTEMBER 7 – 13

CHILD PROTECTION WEEK GOLD COAST The dates and location for the events are: Burleigh Heads Memorial Park, Connor St: Monday, 8th Sept, 3pm - 5:30pm. Free Sausage Sizzle, entertainment and information Stalls Oxenford and Coomera Community Youth Centre: 28 Leo Graham Way, Oxenford. Wed 10th Sept, 9am - 12pm. Free morning tea, entertainment and information Stalls.

Broadwater Great Parklands, Southport on the Great Lawn: 9am-12pm. Free Sausage Sizzle, entertainment and information Stalls.

Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

DOG’S DAY OUT IN PACIFIC PINES Where: Flooded Gum Park (home of the PacPower Junior AFC) When: 10am to 1pm Bring your best furry friend, or come by yourself, for a great morning out, including; Market Stalls; Giveaways; Jammin’ with Gee Cee and Cee Cee Show; Dog Parade and Dog Activities Training Tips; Food and Drinks.

Details: Free. www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/ dogs-day-out-in-pacific-pines-22648.html SEPTEMBER 14

BIGGERA WATERS STATE SCHOOL FAIR Where: Biggers Waters State School, Morala Avenue When: 10am to 3pm A fantastic day out with two massive thrill rides, laser tag, giant slide, jumping castle, baby animals, market stalls, face painting, entertainment and performances.

Details: Free entry. www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/ biggera-waters-state-school-fete-23019.html

Where: Harbour Town, outside Reading Cinemas When: Shows daily at 11am & 1pm, Meet & Greet: 12noon to 12:20pm daily Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are taking over Harbour Town these School Holidays. Get up close and meet Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michelangelo as they showcase their ninjutsu skills on stage at Harbour Town.

Details: www.harboutowngoldcoast.com.au.

Free.

SEPTEMBER 20 TO SEPTEMBER 26 SEPTEMBER 14

MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES LIVE SHOWS

Wildlife Ranger Experience

Children need little encouragement to be active. Making physical activity a party of their daily routing is not only fun, but also healthy while improving healthy growth and development. Active & Healthy Kids runs during the following school terms: Term 3 21/7/14 to 12/9/14 Term 4 13/10/14 to 5/12/14 Details: www.gcparks.com.au

SEPT

ACTIVE KIDS PROGRAM

Where: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent, Hollywell When: 9am - 10:30am A perfect introduction into sailing for kids from 7 to 16 years. Maximum of 32 students.

Bring a hat, shorts, t-shirts and sunscreen.

Details: $20 per person. No bookings required

BRICK EVENT Where: Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, 2684-2690 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach When: 20th - 9am to 4:30pm & 21st 9am to 3:30pm The Brick Event is a fan event showcasing Lego creations and sets from Lego history.

A play area is open during the event, where will your imagination take you?

Details: Adults $12.00; Children $6.00 (3-15 years); Family $40 (2 adults & 4 children).

Tickets sold at the door. www.gccec.com.au/ gold-coast-brick-event.html, 07 3390 1288

- on the coast

SPR

- in the city

ING

HOLIDAEY eGUID SE

PTEMBER 20

14

SEPTEMBER 23 & 30

FREE FUN AND GAMES Where: Robina Common, 45 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina When: 9am to 10am This wide range of fun games and activities is designed to keep kids 5 to 12 years entertained and physically active.

Details: Free. 0417 179 900, http://gcparks. com.au/activities.aspx?page=335#.USbtPmSx8E SEPTEMBER 28

CELEBRATE GOLD COAST Where: Queen Elizabeth Park, Marine Parade, Coolangatta This year's highly interactive event will focus on Gold Coast’s enviable beach lifestyle, inviting you to slap on some sunscreen, slip off your shoes and immerse yourself in a wide range of surf and sand themed activities.

Details: Free event. www.goldcoast.qld.gov. au/celebrate-gold-coast-15330.html

DOWNLOAD

SEPT 19

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

To see more events visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au/events Regular weekly events, playgroups, library activities, weekly sporting events, craft classes, Australian Breastfeeding Association meeting times and much more…

OCTOBER

MARKETS

SEPTEMBER 29 TO OCTOBER 3

DISNEY PRINCESS & HERO ACTIVITY ZONE

OCTOBER 4

Where: Australia Fair, Level One – Outside Toyworld When:11am to 2pm Make your own tiara or crown, explore technology, art & craft and play with other aspiring princesses and heroes. It’s a zone where dreams come true and anything is possible.

Details: Free. www.australiafair.com.au

KIDS GRAND PRIX Where: Metricon Stadium When: TBA closer to date Designed around the same criterion course for the elite riders, kids will be awarded a commemorative gold medal at the end.

Details: Free. www.gccyclefest.com. au/#!kids-grand-prix/cz0c

OCTOBER 1

FAMILY FRIENDLY MEAL PLANNING

GOLD COAST CYCLE FEST - COMMUNITY AND FAMILY FESTIVAL

Where: Southport Library, Cnr Garden and Lawson Streets, Southport When: 10am to 11:30am Learn how to cook your way to good health using fresh ingredients and rediscover the joy of cooking.

Details: Free. (07) 5581 7200 for bookings. www.gcparks.com.au

Where: Metricon Stadium When: From 6am Enjoy a wide array of cycling activities, face painting, a dedicated Cycling Trade Show, live commentary, on stage presentations, food and beverage outlets and Kids Active Zone.

Details: Free. http://www.gccyclefest.com. au/#!festival-activities/c1tcg

4

SEPTEMBER 14 & OCTOBER 12

OCTOBER 4 & 5

4&5

EVERY WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY AND SUNDAY NIGHT

BEACHFRONT MARKETS Where: The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise When: 5pm to 10pm If you're looking for an unusual gift or one-off piece, the beachfront Night Markets are your one-stop-shop.

Details: www.surfersparadise.com SEPTEMBER 7 & 21, OCTOBER 5 & 19

THE VILLAGE MARKET Where: Burleigh Heads State School When: 8am to 1pm Showcases up to 100 fashion, arts and creative stalls as well as live local music and delicious gourmet food.

Details: www.thevillagemarketsgc.com.au

OCTOBER 4 & 5

JUNIOR BEACH BASH OBSTACLE CHALLENGE

OCTOBER 24 TO 26

Where: Coolangatta When: 1pm start Beach Bash is the sandiest obstacle challenge in Australia with the aim to promote health, fitness and above all fun. Junior Beach Bash is back with 5 to 8 obstacles over 1 to 2kms of sand. 4 to 10 years.

Details: $30 online. $35 on the day. www.beachbash.com.au/index.php/ goldcoast-register

When: See website for schedule The Castrol EDGE Gold Coast 600 is a must see on everyone’s calendar with three days of heart stopping action packed racing.

Details: Kids 14 and under receive free general admission with a paying adult. www.v8supercars.com.au/ championship/2014-v8-supercarschampionship/castrol-edge-gold-coast-600

Where: Central Park Oval and Varsity Lakes Sports and Arts Centre, Central Park Drive When: 4 Oct - 9am to 4pm, 5 Oct - 9am to 3pm Step out of your backyard and into our interactive backyard display or go a little wild with the wildlife. There is something for all animal lovers.

Details: Free admission. www.goldcoastpetexpo.com.au

OCTOBER 17 TO 19

TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN SCARECROW FESTIVAL Where: All around beautiful Tamborine Mountain When: Various events, see website This annual event is a huge Sculpture Show with the subjects being Scarecrow related!

There is a Scarecrow Discovery Trail as well as colouring, poetry, entertainment and performance art.

Details: www.tamborinemtncc.org. au/tamborine-mountain-scarecrowfestival-2014/

CASTROL EDGE GOLD COAST 600

NOVEMBER 1 & 2

COOLANGATTA GOLD FESTIVAL OF SURF, SAND AND SWEAT

Where: Gold Coast between Coolangatta Beach and Broadbeach When: 1 Nov - Short Course, From 7am 2 Nov - Long Course, From 7am Nothing demands more from an athlete than the Coolangatta Gold. Celebrating 30 years in 2014, bring the kids along to watch and be inspired.

Details: http://sls.com.au/coolangattagold

î DON’T MISS OUT ON ANY EVENTS!

SIGN UP AT WWW.KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU FOR OUR WEEKLY WHAT’S ON GUIDE. WE ALSO HAVE A SPECIAL COMPREHENSIVE ACTIVITY AND EVENT EGUIDE EVERY SCHOOL HOLIDAYS, COVERING ALL OF SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND. YOU CAN SIGN UP ONLINE TO BE NOTIFIED WHEN THE GUIDE IS LAUNCHED AND TO RECEIVE THE LINK TO DOWNLOAD YOUR PERSONAL COPY. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Where: Paradise Point Parklands When: 8am to 1pm Showcases up to 100 fashion, arts and creative stalls as well as live local music and delicious gourmet food.

Details: www.thevillagemarketsgc.com.au

SEPTEMBER 28 & OCTOBER 26

OCTOBER 19

CAR BOOT SALE

BABY & KIDS MARKET

Where: Quality Hotel/Lonestar Tavern car park, Cnr Markeri Street & Sunshine Blvd, Mermaid Waters When: 5:30am to 10:30am Free entry to the public to buy or browse the goods on display which may include household items, clothing, toys, books, collectibles and more.

Details: Free entry. www.mermaidbeachrotary.com.au

Where: The Carrara Indoor Stadium, NerangBroadbeach Road, Entrance Gate 2, Carrara.

Inside the Sport Hall.

When: 9am to 12noon This Baby & Kids Market is for preloved goods for boys & girls from birth to 7 yrs.

Details: $4 (kids free).There is plenty of free parking around the Centre.No EFTPOS, cash only.

Details: www.babykidsmarket.com.au

24to26

Find us on

TICKETS

GOLD COAST PET & ANIMAL EXPO

THE VILLAGE MARKET

Coolangatta Gold Festival of Surf, Sand and Sweat

OPERA IN THE PARK

OCTOBER 4

SEPTEMBER 28 & OCTOBER 26

Where: Westfield Helensvale When: 9am to 1pm This ‘Family Boutique’ market provides beautiful high quality, unique products and services which are not mass produced or easily found in shops.

Details: www.themummytreemarkets.com.au

Tamborine Mountain Scarecrow Festival

OCTOBER 4 Where: Kurrawa Park, Broadbeach When: From 6pm Bring a blanket, sit back and enjoy a free evening of incredible world-class entertainment under the stars.

Details: Free.www.broadbeachgc.com

THE MUMMY TREE MARKETS

SEPTEMBER 20

CINDERELLA

15 NOVEMBER TO 21 DECEMBER

The Arts Centre Gold Coast www.theartscentregc.com. au/whats-on/whats-on-items/ cinderella

RAPUNZEL Brisbane Arts Theatre www.artstheatre.com.au/show/ rapunzel

SEPTEMBER 27, 2014 TO JANUARY 25, 2015

NOVEMBER 27 & 28

THE LION KING Lyric Theatre, QPAC www4.qpac.com.au OCTOBER 7 TO 11

ROMEO AND JULIET QUT Gardens Theatre www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au/ whatson/2014/romeo-juliet.jsp OCTOBER 16 & 17

ELMO’S WORLD TOUR QUT Gardens Theatre www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au/ whatson/2014/elmo.jsp

PEPPA PIG LIVE! TREASURE HUNT QUT Gardens Theatre www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au/ whatson/2014/peppa-pig.jsp DECEMBER 12 TO 20

QUEENSLAND BALLET - THE NUTCRACKER Lyric Theatre, QPAC, Brisbane www.qpac.com.au/event/ QB_Nutcracker_14.aspx DECEMBER 23

THE WIGGLES BIG SHOW - LIVE IN CONCERT Brisbane Entertainment Centre http://premier.ticketek.com.au/ shows/show.aspx?sh=WIGGLES14

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

21

EDUCATION

Nature as a Teacher

By Jessica Jane Sammut WITH THE GROWING NUMBER OF SCHOOLS INCORPORATING GARDENS INTO THEIR LEARNING STRUCTURE, JESSICA JANE SAMMUT TAKES A LOOK AT WHY THESE LITTLE GREEN HAVENS ARE BECOMING A VITAL CORNERSTONE IN CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT. You can picture it. A young student burying a seed in a school garden, gasping in wonder days later when that seed pushes through the soil and sprouts into a plant, bearing fresh produce weeks down the track to be picked and eaten. From ground to mouth, it is a natural lifecycle which sustains our environment and our health. It involves science, maths, literacy, art, design and social studies. It promotes an awareness of habitat, a love of the outdoors, a sense of patience and an understanding of where food comes from, together with an appreciation of what we put in our body. It offers hands-on learning, with nature as our teacher.

So it is not surprising that the government in the last ten years has ramped up its grants to schools to initiate school gardens, for there is little else that cuts across such a broad range of disciplines in this unique and empowering way, with children able to put theory into practice and get out of the classroom to see for themselves what the world is truly made of.

22

Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

we all benefit

With obesity in Australia rising to alarming heights in recent times and a deep concern about our ‘dying’ earth, a reconnection with nature is not only a welcome step, but arguably a necessary one, with our children the custodians of the future. This is the generation who must demand better of their world leaders, and at the very least ask where their food has come from and how it has been produced.

“School gardens have a profound effect not only on our children, but also on the future of the planet,” confirms Ange Barry, CEO of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation (www. kitchengardenfoundation.org.au), the not-for-profit body which runs a hugely successful national kitchen garden program in schools.

“Growing, harvesting preparing, sharing – it’s the backbone of our culture. Through our program, kids learn about the connection between the environment and food and health, together with sustainability principles. They get exposure to where food comes from and why it is important to look after our world, and once they know why and how, they will keep on doing it.”

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23

EDUCATION

feel the power

And it’s not just an understanding of our surroundings which get a lift as a result of gardening in a school’s syllabus. Psychologically, there are immense benefits, both short-term and long-term.

“Students who are involved in cultivating a garden at school are more likely to be interested in learning beyond the classroom walls,” explains leading Sydney paediatric psychologist Chiu Lau (www.psychpossibilities.com.au). “Benefits include a sense of responsibility and ownership, in addition to improved self-esteem and appreciation for diversity and teamwork from successful collaboration with peers and teachers.”

“A school garden not only encourages an understanding of basic science concepts e.g. plants and animals, life cycles, growth, death etc., but also promotes nurturing behaviours in the caring of plants,” adds Dr Koa Whittingham, psychologist, research fellow at the University of Queensland and founder of Parenting from the Heart blog. “In addition, it is hugely important for confidence, offering children a space that is theirs that is linked to success.”

Susan McKinnon, teacher and program coordinator of the garden at Seven Hills State School, agrees.

"SCHOOL GARDENS HAVE A PROFOUND EFFECT NOT ONLY ON OUR CHILDREN, BUT ALSO ON THE FUTURE OF THE PLANET,”

TUDIES OF SOCIETY AND ENVIRONMENT – determining S rules and democracy in decision-making surrounding the gardening project, learning stewardship in caring for a habitat, understanding how to live sustainably, deciding what is rubbish and what can be recycled/reused/reduced, learning to live ethically, becoming aware of fair trade and food miles and the use of the planet’s resources and understanding the concept of the interconnectedness of all life.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION – becoming aware of nutrition, learning safe practices when using tools and equipment, developing fine and gross motor skills and embracing general fitness.

ENGLISH – honing communication skills, extending vocabulary, learning how to document and how to share information orally and in written form.

TECHNOLOGY – understanding the need to use and invent tools to assist in the gardening process, awareness of levers/pulleys etc. to assist with gardening, learning how to record data, publishing gardening newsletters, becoming involved in garden progress blogs and social media to share findings and progress.

“A school garden not only creates a knowledge of where food comes from and how to grow it (including an awareness of weather, seasons and life cycles), it also provides hands-on physical learning outdoors and builds a child’s sense of belonging and contribution to their school community. It gives children ownership, and empowers them to make decisions and take on responsibilities for the wellbeing of plants and their habitat, while encouraging deep thinking, enquiry and knowledge. It also develops communication and social skills and the ability to work as a team.”

ART – practising the skill of observation in sketching the details of vegetable or fruit and having a creative representation of the growing world.

What is more, boredom, bullying and behaviour issues in schools has been seen to reduce following the introduction of a school fruit and vegetable gardening program, with improved attendance reported by many educational facilities also.

So what can parents do to nurture such a green-thumbed skill?

academic success And academic success? Red hot.

Gardening is seen to create a renewed interest in many subjects, together with a point of context for the theory that children learn.

“It is amazing how a garden can educate our young academically,” says Susan.

“As well as gardening and kitchen classes, the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation program is integrated into the curriculum at every level,” agrees Ange. “It is incredible what a skill base it covers, from using maths to take garden measurements, to English to describe textures, flavours and processes.”

Susan even details an extensive list of key areas that school gardening actively engages with: MATHEMATICAL THINKING – includes measuring plant heights, using maths language to describe produce and seed weights/ sizes/shapes, counting and packaging and data reporting.

24

SCIENCE – learning by trial and error, understanding life cycles/erosion/soil elements/bacteria/fungi in compost making, undertaking pH and soil testing, enjoying microscope use and learning about biodiversity audits.

Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

how you can nuture your child’s interest in gardening “If there is a school garden, parents can support the program by volunteering to assist with it, modelling a positive involvement with the community and environment,” confirms Chiu. “For time poor parents, support can be provided via the donation of seeds and tools.”

And if there isn’t a school garden, families can cultivate their own garden at home. You needn’t have vast amounts of green space to do this – a square foot garden is just as good, as are a few pots or self-contained raised beds. And with a plethora of information on the web to help break down the mystery that is the garden arena, there is no need to feel bamboozled in starting out. The ABC Vegie Guide app (available for free download on iTunes) is a particular beauty in this regard, talking you through what to do step-by-step.

“Families can also prepare meals together while discussing the benefits of a variety of natural plant-based foods,” adds Chiu.

“Parents with no access to any type of garden can encourage their children to maintain a positive attitude towards their environment and health, and ensure their children continue to participate in and enjoy outdoor physical activities.

“Remember, gardening is not just about pushing little seeds into the ground. It is about exploring our relationship with the earth we live in, nurturing the planet that sustains us and working with others to make our world a better place to live.”

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25

EDUCATION

we love our school garden We take a look at three schools who love their school garden.

SUNSHINE BEACH STATE SCHOOL, SUNSHINE COAST What: Permaculture garden for selected classes from prep to year six.

Growing: Raised garden beds growing many different herbs and vegetables, as well as a number of well-developed fruit trees.

Story: “Our permaculture garden originally started about 15 years ago,” says Greg Brennan, permaculture garden teacher coordinator. “We have a remarkable parent who is employed one day a week to run lessons with a number of classes in the garden. The garden is very much used to promote the concept of sustainability. It has a worm farm and compost bins to ensure the students understand the process of a permaculture garden. The sustainability project is growing more and more, with pupils collecting food scraps from their lunches for the worm farm and compost, and recycling paper and cardboard from their lessons.

The kids are involved in many ways with the garden including weeding, planting and composting.

Once or twice a year the kids enjoy a shared harvest lunch with all the produce coming from the garden. The feedback from parents is very positive as they see it as a real-life experience.

SEVEN HILLS STATE SCHOOL, BRISBANE What: Food garden for prep to year three, supported every fortnight by their adopted barefoot farmer, Franco Cencig, introduced to the school by Food Connect (www. foodconnect.com.au).

Growing: A variation of garden beds and cut-down rain tank beds growing organic seasonable vegetables including spinach, peas, tomatoes and corn, herbs such as rosemary, fruit including blueberries and pineapples, edible flowers and bug-attracting flowers. There is also an orchard which includes fruit trees and vines with seven varieties of bananas, white mulberry, star fruit, mango, lemon, mandarin, kumquat, chocolate sapote, passion fruit, ice cream bean, guava, Brazilian cherry, tropical vegetables and cassava.

Story: “Five years ago we established our main garden with the help of some active community involvement after a permablitz, where a group of local individuals assisted in the setting up of new garden beds using permaculture methods,” explains teacher and gardening program coordinator, Susan McKinnon. “Prior to this, some teachers and parents had put in an orchard and two smaller garden beds when the school was much smaller. It is amazing to see how the children love it (they even have their own gardening gloves!) and how it has flourished. We now have a chook house named ‘Cluckingham Palace’ and a lunchtime environment club, with some children assigned as ‘Earth Champions’, responsible for encouraging class members and teachers to turn off lights and fans when leaving a room, to recycle, to compost and to bring a litterfree lunch to care for the waterways and ocean. The garden has knocked-on in so many ways in this regard, as well as creating a knowledge of where food comes from. It has greatly contributed to the children’s sense of belonging and responsibility to their community, while giving them a cherished hobby.”

ST HILDA’S SCHOOL, GOLD COAST What: Raised herb garden beds for years seven to nine.

Growing: An array of organic fresh herbs including parsley, basil, chives, thyme, sage, mint, chilli and coriander.

Story: “The garden at St Hilda’s is an extra-curricular initiative very much undertaken by the pupils as part of a school environment group,” explains head of middle school, Susan Sanburg. “Set up three years ago, the garden has changed forms many times, with its role decided upon by that year’s group. It is always very inspiring to see what the girls come up with. This year a herb garden was in favour, with the students very much influenced by what they were eating and wanting to cook. We had many plants donated and the others were planted as seedlings. The students have had to learn about preparing the beds, watering and maintaining the area, as well as the initial research and planning.

The skills they are learning are life long, permeating deeply and encouraging an attitude towards the environment that will serve to benefit. The girls learn to appreciate what they have and gain a sense of achievement and pride from what they have done.

They feel they are making a very real and tangible contribution to their school community.”

getting in on the action

For those wishing to implement a school garden, it doesn’t have to be difficult and you don’t need fields of space. “The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation Program, for one, is affordable, flexible and attainable for all Australian schools with a primary curriculum,” confirms Ange. “The Australian Government funding associated with the program is directed to training school staff to deliver the program, supplying written and online resource materials and providing ongoing support to the school, so if you have the will, there is a way.” And for those wishing to dabble before committing more fully, a few raised beds are all it takes to get kids enthused. Keep it simple, and build from there.

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Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast 15/08/2014 1:47 pm

GOOD HEALTH EYE SPECIAL

CHILDREN AND

VISION

BAppSc(Optom)Hons FACBO

WHAT AM I?

different to the clear sight required to see far into the distance.

Of all the senses, I function as the least mature at birth, yet in a classroom, it is said I am responsible for up to 90% of the sensory input to the brain. My development changes rapidly from birth throughout childhood. Along with allergies and asthma, disorders with me are the most common long-term health problems experienced by Australian children1, yet comprehensive testing is not routine. It is estimated, that I am the 4th most common disability amongst children and 70% of children with a learning difficulty have a problem with me2 – yet these problems often go undetected and are overlooked.

Ironically, problems with the visual process can be very much hidden from sight. It is difficult as a parent or caregiver to see the problem, and younger children almost never question how they see. I commonly meet children who report double vision or the words moving on the page when I question them, yet they almost never think to tell the teacher or their parents about it!

WHAT AM I? I AM VISION. Your Child’s Vision We have all heard the catch cry “sight is a precious gift”, yet oddly enough, the human visual process is generally underestimated. Few seem to realise just how important vision is to our lives. Most people think of the eyes as a marvellous pair of cameras. Yet in thinking this way, most fail to understand how extensively the quality of vision affects a child’s development – intellectually, emotionally, behaviourally and socially.

Good vision does more than allow your child to see the board at school, or a bird in the sky. Of the three million inputs arriving in your child’s brain every second, two million come from their eyes. For this reason, vision is the process that guides and shapes your child’s behaviour and experience of life. Posture, coordination, attention, communication, language and balance are all guided by vision.

WHY THE CONFUSION? Alarming as these facts are, the next question is why? Why is vision overlooked? Why, if it is so important, do we hear so little about it?

And, finally, how do I know if my child is suffering?

The answers to these questions are complex, but primarily, the problem occurs when people confuse SIGHT with VISION. Sight is the ability to see with clarity, and in an eye examination, this is usually measured on a letter chart across the room. However, important things in a child’s world are usually much closer to them - within arms’ reach. The visual skills for looking close are very

30

By Meredith Graham

Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

WHEN TO TEST & WHAT TO LOOK FOR Many parents assume that a child must know their letters to be able to have their eyes checked. This is not true, and potentially leads to late diagnosis. The following is a recommended guide for vision checks, and lists some of the more common symptoms and signs to be aware of.

1ST CHECK @ 6 - 12 MONTHS OF AGE. This check is important to ensure that your child’s vision is developing symmetrically in both eyes. Symptoms to look for: • Avoids eye contact or does not respond to faces; • One eye turns in or out; • Delays with gross motor development (vision provides your child with the hunger to explore – if it is not working well, then their motor development may be delayed).

2ND CHECK @ 3 YRS OF AGE At this age, children become less random in their play, and begin to sit for longer periods to draw, colour in or manipulate things with their hands. A check at this time confirms not only that the eyes are still developing symmetrically; but that they are beginning to develop the muscle coordination and stamina necessary for close work. Symptoms to look for: • Avoidance or no interest in books, colouring or close work; • Pulling very close to things; • One eye turning in or out (perhaps only occasionally); • Clumsiness; • Can’t visually inspect without touching; • Avoids eye contact, or • Doesn’t watch and imitate others.

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GOOD HEALTH EYE SPECIAL PRE PREP CHECK Before starting school, it is important to ensure that children have all the necessary visual skills to cope with the demands of the classroom. Children should be able to sustain close viewing comfortably, control their far-to-close focusing muscles, move their eyes accurately from place to place, and process visual information. Symptoms at this age may include: •U nable to draw and name pictures or basic shapes; •U nable to tell you about places, things or people seen elsewhere; •N ot interested in imaginative play; •N ot visually alert and observant of surroundings; •D oesn’t colour within lines; •D ifficulty using hand tools such as scissors, or placing small objects in small openings; SCHOOL CHECKS It is important to note that vision checks at school are not routine.

A school sight screening will usually only check your child’s SIGHT, not their VISION. Children’s visual skills are still maturing between 5 – 8 yrs, with fine-tuning of the muscle control for eye movements and two-eyed looking. Checks should occur at least every 2 years, or sooner if your child’s performance is not as expected.

Symptoms may include: •D ifficulty learning to read;

• Mistakes words with similar beginnings; • Poor comprehension; • Fatigued at end of day: • Difficulty with attention and concentration; • Poor recall of visually presented material; • Slow to copy or complete work; • Headaches or tired/sore eyes; • Turns head to the side or covers one eye during close work; • Poor handwriting & poorly spaced work, or • Difficulty with right/left concepts.

These symptoms are intended as a guide and are by no means exhaustive. Any concerns about your child’s development or performance should be followed up with a consultation with an optometrist who is experienced in treating children’s vision problems.

BEFORE STARTING SCHOOL, IT IS IMPORTANT TO ENSURE THAT CHILDREN HAVE ALL THE NECESSARY VISUAL SKILLS TO COPE WITH THE DEMANDS OF THE CLASSROOM..

Meredith Graham is an optometrist and Fellow of the Australasian College of Behavioural Optometrists. Together with her husband Paul Graham, they established Harmony Vision to serve the vision needs of Gold Coast families, offering vision examinations for the young, and the young at heart. Meredith has a special interest in children’s vision problems that impact on attention and learning, and is frequently invited to lecture about vision training. In 2013, Meredith was awarded the ACBO President’s Award for service to her profession.

References cited: 1. Eye Health Among Australian Children. 2008 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Canberra.

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31

GOOD HEALTH EYE SPECIAL

CHILDREN’S

VISUAL SKILLS

Vision, most would agree is our most precious sense. Why is it then that parents across the country, rightly so worry about immunisation, hearing, speech, dental care but simply do not think of having their child’s eye’s examined?

Former Qld State President and National Vice President of Optometry Australia and Queensland Optometrist of the Year, Michael Hare, pleads with mums and dad’s to have their children’s eye’s checked.

“There is simply no excuse for a child to reach their schooling years without having a visit to the optometrist” he said.

Optometry consultations are mostly covered by Medicare so there can be no financial excuse for not protecting our child’s precious sense, their vision. When we understand that 80% of what we learn comes by way of our eyesight then the importance of a visit to the optometrist is even more accentuated.

All too often parents delay seeking eye care for their children until there are obvious signs of a problem. Often in fact it is the class teacher who will recommend an eyesight check due to their observations. Squinting, frequently rubbing the eye, covering an eye, difficulty concentrating, difficulty learning to read, holding a book very close to read, complaints of headaches, can all be signs of a potential eyesight problem.

THERE IS SIMPLY NO EXCUSE FOR A CHILD TO REACH THEIR SCHOOLING YEARS WITHOUT HAVING A VISIT TO THE OPTOMETRIST

Parents need to be able to recognise the signs of a vision problem, as a child just assumes that how they see is normal. Through regular eye examinations and by following some simple guidelines you can help to protect your child from conditions that can lead to permanent vision impairment.

A great variety of visual tasks need to be performed, from discerning different colours, to reading the board, drawing and writing, looking at classmates and using the computer terminal.

These are apart from the visual demands when in the playground and playing sport. To perform all of these tasks well, children need to have a range of visual skills. They include

• DISTANCE VISUAL ACUITY: The ability to see clearly when looking at objects greater than 6 metres away.

• NEAR VISION: The ability to see and maintain clear vision at distances closer than arms length.

• FOCUSING SKILLS: The ability of the eyes to maintain clear vision at varying distances.

• STEREOPIS: Binocular (two eyed) depth perception, which is an important skill for ball sports.

• PERIPHERAL VISION: The ability to see and interpret what is happening at the edges of the field of vision whilst looking

By Michael Hare, straight ahead.

• BINOCULAR VISION: The ability EyecarePlus of the eyes toOptometrist aim, move and work as a team.

• EYE TRACKING AND FIXATION SKILLS: the ability of the eyes to look at and accurately follow an object: this includes the ability to move the eyes across a piece of paper while reading. If the eyes are not able to aim properly, more effort is required to interpret the two slightly different angles. Headaches, tiredness, confusion or in severe cases double vision can result.

• CONVERGENCE: when looking at close objects, the eyes need to turn slightly inwards, this is known as convergence. excessive or inadequate convergence is often related to refractive error (long-sightedness and short-sightedness) • COLOUR VISION: The ability to differentiate colours. The use of different colours is often used as a teaching tool, so it is important to identify any problems with colour vision as early as possible.

• VISUAL MOTOR INTEGRATION: the ability to combine visual input with other sensory input (hand and body movements, balance and so on) Community values are strong when it comes to immunisation and dental care as examples. Why is there so little emphasis placed on the importance of good eyesight? It is an essential attribute for learning and crucial for a life of happiness.

Health column with thanks to Michael Hare, Optometrist, VISION Michael Hare, EyecarePlus Optometrist, 17 Nerang St, Southport QLD 4215

SEEING YOUR BLIND SPOT Hold the page at about arms length, look at the cross and the circle so your nose is positioned in between the two objects. Cover your left eye and stare at the cross with your right eye. Slowly move towards the page while staring at the cross with your right eye. The circle will disappear!

This is your blind spot.

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y

Children’s eyecare is painless (fun even) and all part of Checkup Plus®

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Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

Michael Hare Benowa 5597 0038 Kerrin Woods Mermaid Beach 5526 1400 Michael Quante Miami 5535 1121 Michael Hare Southport 5532 9566

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Swim Fit Nerang

LEARN TO SWIM

Child Minding Available!

(all ages)

Enrol now and discover the benefits for your child

Go to www.swimfit.com.au for tips and advice on swimming for babies

Nerang Aquatic Centre - 5578 1976 Mention this ad when enrolling in lessons to receive a FREE TRIAL PASS to our Child Minding, Squads or an Aqua Fitness Class* Offer valid for Adult Squad, Aqua Aerobics, Deep Water Running and Child Minding only. Valid until 31st December 2014 variableNot-

Call for your free trial now!

07 5535 8640

fun

rugby skills

ages 2½ to 7

Little Rugby offers a fun-filled introduction to non-contact rugby with imaginative, playful games in a safe environment.

Three separate age groups running from ages 2½ to 7th birthday.

Soccer for kids aged 18mths to 7 years

Build confidence, coordination & a sense of belonging through imaginative play. We’re not just about soccer!

Classes available at these locations:

Paradise Point • Pacific Pines • Southport • Helensvale Carrara • Burleigh • Currumbin • Varsity Lakes • Ormeau • Upper Coomera

CALL FOR FREE TRIAL 07 5535 8640

www.littlerugby.com.au

www.littlekickers.com.au

goldcoast@littlerugby.com.au

goldcoast@littlekickers.com.au

Sessions in Burleigh | Robina | Upper Coomera ADVERTISEMENT/LOCAL BUSINESS

Australia’s First: Kids 1st Health Clinic Providing specialised health care for children

• Acute injury & illness

Gold Co ast’s

• Immunisations • Growth & development screening • Direct referral to Kids 1st Paediatrician • Emergency/Paediatric Nurse Practitioners

1s t

children ’s acute health c are clinic

• Paediatric Focused GPs

Are you looking for a paediatric focused team who are dedicated to offering quality, compassionate health care for your family? Do you struggle to get an appointment with your GP when you need one?

Kids 1st Health is Australia’s first private paediatric clinic run by Nurse Practitioners in collaboration with a Paediatrician. A Nurse Practitioner is a registered nurse educated to a Master’s level and authorised to operate in an advanced clinical role.

The ability to provide direct referrals to Dr Liam Tjia, Kids 1st Health’s Paediatrician, means that Kids 1st Health can provide the very best treatment and health care for your children.

The team at Kids 1st Health believe it’s important for families to have access to a health care service that has children as the focus, and can assist with day to day illness, acute injuries, immunisations and preventative health such as nutrition and lifestyle.

07 5689 1268 • www.kids1sthealth.com.au Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5pm

*

OPEN NOW

Riverwalk Place, Level 1/238 Robina Town Centre Drive (corner Laver Drive)

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

The management team of Shahn Horrocks (Nurse Practitioner – emergency and paediatric specialty) and Dr Liam Tjia (Paediatrician) each have 3 daughters, so understand the demands of being a parent. They both realise the difficulties many parents face when seeking quality and timely health care treatments for their children. Kids 1st Health aims to alleviate these pressures by making children’s health their priority. The clinic covers a multitude of paediatric areas and also have an allied health care team onsite who specialize in women’s and children’s presentations.

Kids 1st Health is located at Riverwalk Place, Level 1/238 Robina Town Centre Drive (corner Laver Drive), opposite The Rocket. For appointments call 07 5689 1268 or email reception@kids1sthealth.com.au | www.kids1sthealth.com.au.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

33

ADVERTISEMENT/LOCAL BUSINESS

Party on at Paradise Resort!

In a move sure to please both parents and kids, Australia’s favourite family resort– Paradise Resort – has introduced birthday party packages to suit all ages. Available seven days a week, the all-inclusive party options are suitable for boys and girls and take advantage of a family-friendly environment, loaded with fun extras. You can choose from an Ice-Skating or Waterpark party with your food and entertainment taken care of so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the party. if your kids are obsessed with the movie “Frozen” then Planet Chill Ice-Skating Rink provides the perfect backdrop with packages including up to 2 hours of ice-skating, balloons, party bags, invitations and yummy party food to ensure your kid has the coolest party ever! And if you can’t cut down the list of invites there’s even an option to book out the entire ice-rink. Resort General Manager, David Brook, believes the birthday packages will provide parents with an exciting and affordable alternative for kid’s birthdays. “Catering to families is our specialty and when you consider the cost and stress of hosting birthdays in parks, homes and other locations, what we offer is very competitive.” “Apart from the huge smiles and wonderful memories for party-goers another added benefit is that parents can simply walk out the door without worrying about cleaning up.”

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Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

You can even add on extras such as popcorn and fairy floss, balloon twisting and face painting as well as a menu of “parent platters” taking the stress out of party hosting for the parents. Or for that extra special touch you can even arrange a VIP meet and greet with one of the resort mascots Captain, Cleo, Dusty or Astro who would be only too happy to join in on the party fun. And while Planet Chill has a definite party vibe with flashing lights and glow sticks, they also offer a complimentary jukebox to select your own music (and yes “Let it Go” is on the list) the Zone 4 Kids Waterpark Parties are a firm favourite as the weather heats up offering hours of fun with a myriad of slides, water cannons, and climbing frames designed to entertain children of all ages.

“We believe we have developed a birthday experience that is value for money and, more importantly, provides great memories for both the kids and the parents”, said Mr Brook.

For more information visit: www.paradiseresort.com.au/parties/packages/

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

- on the coast

- in the city

Whats coming up NOVEMBER / DECEMBER ISSUE

COAST LIFE

Coast Life shares exciting products and services by businesses that cater to Gold Coast parents and families. We think local kids and parents deserve just as much choice, style, fun, innovation and value for money as those living anywhere else. So if you agree, please join us in helping these ventures by taking a look at what they’ve got to offer.

And if you’ve got a business you want to spread the word on, let us know!

LITTLE ORANGE PHOTOGRAPHY Ph: 0449 658 131 www.littleorangephotography.com.au

Your maternity, newborn and family photographer for the Gold Coast. Tailored to find the unique qualities and personalities in every person and family. Capturing beautiful memories to share. I am sensitive to your family needs, passionate and caring to your little one's. You and your family will receive the personal attention you deserve. Dedicated to providing quality as well as excellent personal service.

LIL' ROO & YOU YOGA Ph: 0403 843 730 www.moksastudios.com.au

p i h s b i r n m e e o C v e d re ad o r 2 0 0 , 0 00 *

NEWS ARTICLES REVIEWS EVENTS

* Combined monthly readership from our printed publications, website, emarketing and social media channels

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Offering family friendly yoga sessions. The Lil' Roo & You Yoga spring program in Moksa Studios Southport is staring Tues 23 Sept. Mums, bubs & pre-school kids are welcome. Mums and bubs can socialise with lots of freedom, practicing yoga and meditation. Promoting weightloss, including chakra kegels and CardioCare while bub bonding.

AS YOU WISH

XMAS GIFT GUIDE

DON'T MISS OUT

Ph: 0400 789 768 www.as-you-wish.com.au

Call 1300 430 320 or email your Sales Account Manager.

As You Wish is a girls pamper party experience. Where your daughter and her friends will be pampered like princesses. We come to you all over the Gold Coast.

For 2 hours, 2 trained professionals will pamper your princess and her friends from head to toe, then girls dance with disco lights and play party games. Party good is served and princesses recieve gift bags. Call to organise your girls party.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

35

CONVERSATION

Meet Chantelle Ellem

AKA Fat Mum Slim Interview by Jackie Goldston

When Coast mum Chantelle Ellem gave birth to her daughter in 2008, she took up blogging to inspire herself to lose the baby weight, but instead she ended up gaining a whole new career and new life through her blog, Fat Mum Slim.

The married mum of beautiful 6 year old daughter Lacey and sweet 10 month old Luella has found that since taking the leap of faith and blogging full time that she has had many rewarding experiences.

Chantelle explains, “There have been so many amazing things happen because of blogging. We’ve travelled the world as a family; to Disney World, Singapore and beautiful Queensland. I’ve met amazing people, and connected with people all over the world. With my Photo A Day* challenges I’ve been let into the lives of so many people, and I’ve had so many emails from people sharing that taking a daily photo has changed their lives for the better. My very favourite part of blogging is that it allows me to do what I love (writing and social media) and stay at home to care for my girls as well.”

“My family is my priority. We do everything together, and I like it like that. We’re like a package deal. We try and have as much fun as possible. We make mess, we explore, and we laugh and have fun.”

So what has surprised her most about people’s reaction to her blog and Photo A Day challenges? “The problem with the online world is that sometimes it can be hard to realise how real it all is.

I know that sounds odd, but I sometimes struggle to realise that it’s all actually happening. When people send me emails to say how Photo A Day changed their lives, for some it’s helped them to emerge from the depths of depression, it’s a little reality check. I know how much it helps me stay inspired and creative, and to see what it does for other people is beautiful and exciting.”

WORKING FROM HOME As a busy working mum, like many others she appreciates the challenges of the so-called ‘work-life balance’. She shares, “I’d love to meet someone that has mastered the work from home and life juggle. There are days when I think I’ve got it sorted, but then someone gets sick or a massive workload gets thrown my way and it all comes undone.

“I take each day as it comes. I get up early and get work done while my girls sleep, and I prioritise my kids because they’re only little for so long. I also just got a weekly cleaner, which is definitely helping make the juggle easier so far.”

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Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

LIFE IN THE SPOTLIGHT Chantelle is living her life in the spotlight in many ways, she reaches over 140,000 people via her blog alone each month, and has nearly 100,000 Instagram followers. She maintains privacy for her children and appreciates their right to grow up sharing their own stories. “There are definitely stories that I don’t go near. I’m very protective of my kids, and my eldest is at an age where it’s not fair to share her stories. There are so many cute things she does, but there are people that know her that read my blog and they’re just not my stories to share. I also wouldn’t share anything that would embarrass anyone or hurt people’s feelings.”

“I’m so scared of the day that my kids ask me to join Facebook.

That scares me. My husband is a police officer and I see a lot on social media, so between us we’re probably going to be some pretty strict parents. I used to be a nanny to teenage kids and back then it was stressful enough trying to manage their social media use. I think we’ll just keep a very open and honest relationship and take things as they come.”

Chantelle is full of passion for life and for her family. “I want my kids to believe that anything is possible. That if they can dream it, they can make it happen. Except unicorns, maybe we have to draw the line somewhere.”

HOW TO PLAY PHOTO A DAY Playing photo-a-day is easy! Here’s how to play: Grab your camera or phone or photo-taking-device.

Look at the monthly list to find the prompt for the day. {The number corresponds to the date of the month}.

Take a photo using the prompt as inspiration.

Now you’ve taken a picture, it’s time to share it. This is the fun part. You can share to whichever social media platform you like.

Chantelle likes “Facebook and Instagram best, oh and Twitter too.”

Make sure you add the hashtag #FMSphotoaday to your caption so people can find you, and others know what you’re doing.

Visit fatmumslim.com.au for this month’s list and more information You can read more about Chantelle and her new project Little Moments at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Find us on Social Media or visit pacificfair.com.au

Barbie is coming to town!

The fabulous world of Barbie will be brought to life in Centre Court with Mattel’s Barbie Interactive Zone. Featuring an iPad station, craft activities, basketball, face painting and more - You won’t want to miss it! Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet Barbie in person!

WHERE: DATE: TIME: MEET & GREET: COST:

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Centre Court, Ground Floor Arcade 29 September to 5 October 10am to 1pm 29 September at 10am, 11am, 12noon Free

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

37

BOOKS, MOVIES, APPS, GAMES

REVIEWS APPS

BOOK

MOVIES

For the kids

52 STOREY TREEHOUSE

For the Kids

by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton, Pan Macmillan, RRP$12.99

BOXTROLLS (3D) In Cinemas September 18. Rating: PG

Andy and Terry's amazing treehouse has 13 new levels including a chainsaw-juggling level, a makeyour-own-pizza parlour, a rocket-powered carrotlauncher, a life-size snakes and ladders game, a remembering booth, a Ninja Snail Training Academy and a high-tech detective agency, with all the latest high-tech detective technology, including a hotdonut vending machine! Well, what are you waiting for? Come on up! For boys and girls aged 6 – 12.

STARLIGHT FOUNDATION ADVANCE SCREENINGS SUNDAY 14 SEPTEMBER, 11AM. ALL TICKETS $11 (PLUS $1.10 ONLINE BOOKING FEE $2 FROM EACH TICKET DONATED TO THE STARLIGHT FOUNDATION

DRAW WITH US! - STICKERS, PHOTOS, PENCILS & FUN FOR KIDS (iPad and iPhone) $3.99 Draw With Us! is a safe, easy to use drawing and creativity app built for just children. Kids can use different brushes, textures and colours to create their own amazing artworks. Insert or take photos and create funny faces. "Draw With Us!" contains 100s of free stickers. Developed for ages 6 – 8, recommended for ages 4+.

For the teen

ASSASSIN'S CREED PIRATES (iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, Fire phone, Kindle Fire) $4.99 - $6.49 Become one of the most feared pirates of the Caribbean in this exclusive Assassin's Creed adventure! Play as Alonzo Batilla, a young and ambitious captain, a pirate eager to take on the fiercest of enemies... Break all the rules, challenge empires and make your own fortune! Assassin's Creed Pirates is an action game based on the popular and successful Assassin's Creed console franchise.

Although there are frequent naval battles, there's nothing gratuitous in the violence. Rated for ages 12+.

BOOK/MOVIE: Tweens and Teens

THE MAZE RUNNER

by James Dashner, Chicken House Ltd, RRP$16.99 Read it before you see it at the movies! Thomas wakes up in an empty elevator. He doesn't know who he is or how he got there. His memory is blank. When the doors open, he is surrounded by boys who welcome him to the Glade - a large, open expanse surrounded by gigantic stone walls.

Just like Thomas, they don't know how or why they are there. All they know is that every morning the stone doors to the maze that surrounds them have opened. Every night they've closed tight. And every thirty days a new boy has been delivered in the lift. Thomas was expected. But the next day, a girl is sent up--the first girl to ever arrive in the Glade. And more surprising yet is the message she delivers. For girls and boys aged 10 -16

THE MAZE RUNNER (THE MOVIE) In Cinemas September 18. Rating: M

The Boxtrolls is a comedic fable that unfolds in Cheesebridge, a posh Victorian-era town obsessed with wealth, class and the stinkiest of fine cheeses.

Beneath its charming cobblestone streets dwell the Boxtrolls, foul monsters who crawl out of the sewers at night and steal what the townspeople hold most dear: their children and their cheeses. At least that’s the legend residents have always believed. In truth, the Boxtrolls are an underground cavern-dwelling community of quirky and lovable oddballs who wear recycled cardboard boxes the way turtles wear their shells. The Boxtrolls have raised an orphaned human boy, EGGS, since infancy as one of their dumpsterdiving and mechanical junk-collecting own.

For the Parents

THE EQUALIZER In Cinemas September 25. Rating: TBC In The Equalizer, Denzel Washington plays McCall, a former black ops commando who has faked his death to live a quiet life in Boston. When he comes out of his self-imposed retirement to rescue a young girl, Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz), he finds himself face to face with ultra-violent Russian gangsters. As he serves vengeance against those who brutalise the helpless, McCall’s desire for justice is reawakened. If someone has a problem, the odds are stacked against them, and they have nowhere else to turn, McCall will help.

To see more reviews visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au 38

Kids on the Coast – SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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