Kids on the Coast Magazine - Sunshine Coast - Issue 60

Issue 60

January/February 2014 SUNSHINE COAST

Before words BABY SIGN LANGUAGE

ACUPUNCTURE: IS IT SAFE FOR CHILDREN? UNSCHOOLING...

CHILDREN LEARNING NATURALLY

PLUS HOLIDAYS | PARTIES WHAT'S ON CALENDAR + LOTS MORE

BELIEVE IT OR NOT...

STRIKE A BALANCE WITH MARTIAL ARTS

Contents JANUARYFebruary2014

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4 From the Editor 4 The Social Gathering 6 What's News 7 CHECK THIS OUT 8 FEATURE: Striking a balance: Martial Arts 16 NEW TO THE COAST 18 THE ‘P’ FILES: Developing children's communication and social skills 26 EDUCATION: Deschooling and Unschooling 38 CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Find out what’s happening on the

Coast in the new year

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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42 BABIES ON THE COAST: Sign language 46 ONLY NATURAL: Acupuncture and Families 53 MUMMY MOMENT 54 GOOD HEALTH: Gestational Diabetes 56 TOUGH TOPIC: Talking about Religions 62 Parentville: Winging It 64 LET’S CELEBRATE: Red Dinner 66 HAPPY HOLIDAY: With Nan, Pop, Mum and Dad 70 CONVERSATION: Andy Griffiths 74 REVIEWS

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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T hesocialgathering We have been chatting about post baby bellies, and the fitness bloggers under fire for posting 'selfies' of their post baby bodies. Do you think pictures like this add pressure to new mums to get back in shape quickly? Or is it just media sensationalism trying to Jodaveelyssa spark debate?

As far as I'm concerned it's

Welcome to

kidsonthecoast The New Year is a wonderful time to reflect on what our children have achieved. Even the smallest comments of recognition from us can make our children feel a million dollars. It can be anything from learning to blow bubbles in the pool to regularly remembering to unpack a lunchbox after school (I wish that we had that one ticked off!).

The past year has been a huge one for the team at Kids on the Coast, from an office move to a new magazine launch (we launched Kids in the City in Brisbane!). There have been many new milestones for all of the KOTC kids too. We would love to hear yours – so make sure you join us on Facebook or our website and let us know!

their body to do with as they wish. My third child is almost 2 and I Corinna: was back in a size 8 within a couple I think it has all gone of weeks of having her, not because I waaaaaay too far. If I didn't tried mind you, but because of having have a body like that before thyroid disease. I still have wobbly bits, having a baby then I am damn sure I stretchmarks etc and I don't care. All won't have a body like that AFTER a I can say is worry about yourself and baby. Wish I had the discipline to have a if you don't like what you see either body like that in my younger days...might change it or learn to accept it. be a different story for my body now if I did. What I don't like is them Heidi: I know for me personally it makes me feel guilty because I know that I could have trying to put the average female gotten my pre-baby body back if I had worked at it, but that wasn't my priority, I wanted to down because we don't breastfeed and give my baby the best milk possible and not worry if whether my eating look like that. or exercise was impacting my supply. But I honestly think we should stop focussing on this, because really all mum's should first and foremost be focusing on their child and doing what is best for baby. If you have time to exercise and lose weight, great, but also realise that some don't have that time or even have that as a priority.

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We are starting 2014 with an exciting range of topics too. In this edition we explore why martial arts can make a big difference to children’s confidence, understanding of safety as well as how to choose a martial arts school that is right for you. We also delve into the world of unschooling; look at acupuncture for families; find out why baby sign language has helped so many parents and investigate options to assist in the development of children’s communication and social skills.

Have you missed an issue of Kids on the Coast magazine? 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, new articles and product, app and book reviews. Please feel free to contact me via Facebook.com/ kidsonthecoast, our website or email.

Don’t forget to sign up for our What’s On enews that comes our weekly at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au.

Jackie Goldston Editor

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Lyn: I think if they've worked hard and on their own steam done it, why shouldn't they show it off? I object to the airbrushed photos of celebrities who have nannies and chauffeurs and personal trainers and personal chefs and elective c-sections [with nip and tuck] showing off their bodies 2 minutes after "giving birth". I think we all have time. I just spent 5 minutes reading this and replying to it. That could have been 5 minutes doing squats or star jumps or at least not drinking a coffee. I haven't prioritised it and I feel guilty and so I should - my daughter deserves a fit mum, not someone she has to drag around behind her!

Clever

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Win

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ussie World

Enjoying A

Out a Buderimnd about at Forest Park

Look for this symbol throughout the magazine and hop onto our website for you chance to WIN!

Editorial contributions for Issue 60: Luke Goldston, Sandra Smith, Maxine Arthur, Belinda Hopper, Justine Stewart, Mimi B, Dr Kelly Bowers, Aleney de Winter, Wendy Buckley

COVER: Photography by Jennifer Oliphant Photography.

Rain cloud created by Ligre Ward.

Models dressed by eeni meeni miini moh® + e3-M®

Kids on the Coast magazine is printed with vegetable/soy based inks on paper supplied using pulp sourced from sustainable forests and manufactured to environmentally accredited systems.

Kids on the Coast encourages recycling.

Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

PUBLISHED BY: THINGS 4 KIDS PTY LTD. PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562 PHONE: 1300 430 320 FAX: 07 5471 2372 WEB: www.kidsonthecoast.com.au ABN: 86 473 357 391. All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast 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 - on the coast 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@ kidsonthecoast.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.

PUBLISHER: Toni Eggleston ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Simone Bell EDITOR: Jackie Goldston ADVERTISING: For advertising enquiries please phone Renee 1300 430 320 or email: advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au Production Department: production@kidsonthecoast.com.au ADMINISTRATION: Kellie Kruger admin@kidsonthecoast.com.au Printing BY: Print Works PHONE: 07 3865 4433 DISTRIBUTION: Kids on the Coast (Sunshine Coast edition) is a free publication circulating over 20,000 copies from Caloundra to Noosa and through the hinterland. Separate edition cover Brisbane and the Gold Coast. For distribution enquiries please phone: 1300 430 320 or email: admin@kidsonthecoast.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGN: Helen Chapman & Alana Falk

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au - on the coast -

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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

The name of Oz in the

WIZARD OF OZ

did you know?

Whatsnews was thought up by the creator, Frank Baum, when he looked at his filing cabinet and saw O-Z.

HOURS

The longest movie runs for 85 hours and is fittingly titled The Cure for Insomnia.

8 minutes and 17 seconds... ... is the time it takes for the light from the Sun to reach Earth.

LEFT FEET

Separate shoes for left and right feet were only designed in the 1800’s.

Community

News

The only food that doesn't spoil is honey

GET SUN SMART: Grants reduce skin cancer risk!

Cancer Council Queensland and the Department of Health are calling on not-forprofit organisations across the Sunshine Coast to get SunSmart by applying for the 2013/14 SunSmart Grants Scheme! The SunSmart Grants Scheme offers funds for portable shade items for not-for-profit organisations and schools that cater for children up to age 17. Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said the SunSmart Grants Scheme would be a boost to eligible organisations who have limited funds for sun safety. “Queensland has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and we know increased sun exposure in childhood contributes significantly to the risk of developing cancer later in life,” Ms Clift said.

In Queensland, around 136,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year.

Early childhood centres, outside school hours care, youth community groups (eg. scouts, girl guides) and primary and secondary schools across Queensland are encouraged to apply.

Eligible organisations can apply for a SunSmart grant to assist with purchasing one new shade item, either a permanent shade sail or a portable shade structure (marquee kit). Applications are open now and close at 5pm on February 28, 2014. Funded projects must be finalised by June 30, 2014. To apply for a grant or for more information visit www.cancerqld.org.au.

THE BATTERY CONTROLLED

Express your national pride and celebrate

Australia Day

The spirit of Australia Day will be celebrated on Sunday 26 January with a range of community events happening right across the region. Sunshine Coast Council Division 2 Councillor Tim Dwyer said, “Council is hosting an Australia Day Flag Raising Ceremony at Kings Beach at 8am for those who would like to take a moment to express their national pride.”

“There is also a range of fun events for the community to get involved in, from the Coolum Beach Australia Day celebrations in the north and the Australia Day Family Fun Day at Glasshouse Mountains in the south, just to name a couple. As always, it is important that we remember to celebrate safely and responsibly and that we consider our community and environment.

“These celebrations, and others from across the region, are listed in council’s Sunshine Coast Festive Season Program 2013/14, making it easy for residents and visitors to begin planning their holiday activities.”

For more information on Australia Day events or other Festive Season events head to council’s website to obtain your free Festive Season program guide or visit kidsonthecoast.com.au to check out great family friendly events.

Button battery safety

With many toys at Christmas using button batteries, it is a good idea to remember that when swallowed, small coin-sized lithium button batteries can get stuck in a child's throat and cause severe burns or death.

In a joint safety campaign, Energizer, Kidsafe, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission warn parents about the dangers of small coin-sized lithium button batteries and

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

offer the following safety tips • Keep coin-sized button batteries and devices out of sight and out of reach.

• Examine devices and make sure the battery compartment is secure.

• Dispose of used button batteries immediately. Flat batteries can still be dangerous.

• If you suspect a child has swallowed a

button battery, immediately go to a hospital emergency room. Do not let the child eat or drink and do not induce vomiting.

• Call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for additional treatment information.

• Tell others about the risk associated with button batteries and how to keep their children safe. http://thebatterycontrolled.com.au/ www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Checkthisout

1

2

ol Back to esacshyo!! made

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3 4

6 1. Spencil lunch bags: a funky and convenient way to keep your food cold (or hot)! RRP: $11.95 - $12.95 from www.spencil.com.au or selected retailers across the Coast (including Buderim Pharmacy and Work’n’Learn, Kunda Park). Also available are matching library bags ($12.95), school book covers (from $2.50), pencil cases ($9.95), homework bags ($12.95).

2. Quut Ballo: We know – it doesn’t even look like a bucket. But your kids will use it like one, and that’s what makes the Ballo so unique.

Carrying water from the sea to a sandcastle has never been this much fun. RRP $24.95 http://www.tigertribe.com.au 3. Snurk Astronaut Single Doona Set: let your child’s imagination run free at night with this stunning photographic printed single doona set with a real Astronaut suit from the Space Expo Museum in Holland. RRP$169.95 from www.hardtofind.com.au 4. Juno Easy rider: The Spherovelo helps young children make the connection between their senses (vision, pressure, equilibrium...) and their motor system by being a ride on that’s unstable on the one hand (so that the child is required to effect some control - like with a bike) but safe on the other; a combination never before achieved. http://www.wooden.net.au $120 RRP 5. VW Camper Van Tent: a full size replica (1:1 Scale) of the 1965 Camper Van. The VW tent is large enough to stand up in and internally zip-divided into two rooms, sleeping 2 people in each room. www.missmel.com.au from $380 6. Book covers: going back to school has never been so funky with an amazing array of interesting and unique book covers and contact.

Check out Work’n’learn at Kunda Park for fun contact (from $2.20) www.worknlearn.com.au (as well as a large range of book covers) or super easy to use and great to look at slide on book covers from http://www.classcovers.com (from $2). www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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Feature

Striking a balance exploring martial arts

By Luke Goldston

M

artial arts training for children is experiencing a golden age in Australia. The idea of teaching kids to defend themselves is nothing new; it dates back to Ancient Greece and beyond. However, in the last decade, the ABS reports that there has been a 25% growth in children’s participation in martial arts.

The reasons for parents or kids to want to get involved can vary. In many cases the motivation may be poorly defined. However at the heart of it is often the desire that most parents have for their kids to be safe.

Concerned parents like to know that our children are protected, especially when they’re out of our reach. Renowned philosopher and martial artist (and concerned parent) Sam Harris explains it; “Just as it is prudent to wear your seat belt while driving, it makes sense to know how best to respond to violence.”

The problem is that there is often a large knowledge gap for parents when it comes to choosing the right school, the right instructor and the right style. Faced with a variety of confusing sounding names, often outrageous

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

claims and fancy looking uniforms, a parent with no personal experience of martial arts can never be certain what they’re actually paying for.

The Right School To choose the right school it’s important to understand what you and your child hope to get out of martial arts. Whether it’s purely for selfdefence, for self-discipline, confidence, fitness, fun, sporting competition or the social and even artistic aspects it will affect the kind of school you choose.

It’s not unheard of for martial arts teachers to make wild, unsubstantiated claims about the effectiveness of their style. It’s possible some of them even believe these claims themselves.

Unfortunately, teaching the average child that they can disarm a knife wielding attacker, take on three opponents at once or knock someone out with the force of their chi is an expensive self-delusion at best and dangerous at worst.

Daniel Keating has a black belt in Taekwondo and a brown belt in Brazilian Jiujitsu. He trains children, adults and professional fighters. He believes that at least continued on next page... www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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www.bellmaze.com JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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Feature Some people are concerned that teaching a kid to fight encourages them to fight, but this is not the case. It channels their natural aggression and competitiveness into something positive.

Vice becomes virtue…

Daniel Keating

some of the recent surge in popularity can be attributed to televised combat sports and the Mixed Martial Arts explosion, in the same way that the Olympics raised the profile of Taekwondo and Hong Kong cinema raised the profile of Kung Fu; but he also thinks that consumers are a touch more discerning than they used to be and not quite as willing to be taken in by mystical sales pitches.

Previously, he says, “people would just walk down to the nearest school and often become indoctrinated. It's natural to assume someone with a black belt knows what they're talking about in the same way one would trust a doctor!

It shouldn't be that way but it happens.”

Even without any background in martial arts there are some warning signs that anyone should be able to look out for.

Firstly make sure the financial arrangements are clear from the very beginning. Discounts for long term membership are normal but be aware if there are penalties for early withdrawal. Also take into account other costs, both compulsory and optional such as mandatory equipment, grading costs and ‘special’ classes before you make a decision.

Most schools will give kids tangible encouragement, often in the form of different coloured belts, to signify their advancement in the style. Good schools recognise that to give advancement too quickly or easily makes the process meaningless. Martial arts training should be hard and to achieve any kind of mastery takes more than a couple of years.

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

Other warning signs include schools that seem to run on ‘personality cults’, with the revered master accorded a more than human level of respect. Part of the benefit of martial arts, is learning to respect a role model outside the family but some schools seem to play on that respect to promote a kind of semi-religious awe of the instructor.

Finally there are those schools and instructors that, while excellent, just don’t seem to cater well to children. Most schools will offer a trial period or a few free lessons. Take advantage of these and don’t be afraid to look at different places.

But does it work?

Most self-defence experts will tell you that the best forms of self-defence are awareness and avoidance. Unfortunately, being able to see a bad situation develop before it gets out of hand is a skill many kids don’t have. On top of that, being able to avoid bad situations can be extremely difficult if that bad situation is locked up in school with you all day.

Advice to simply avoid bullies is well meaning, logical and often incites a bullied kid to want to tear their hair out in frustration. Apart from the fact that it’s often impossible to avoid someone, the effort to constantly stay away from a tormentor is very psychologically draining.

That’s where martial arts come in. Like the seat belt, they’re a last line of defence for accidents we can’t avoid.

To Daniel Keating, one of the main things to look for in a school if you’re concerned

about self-defence is well controlled sparring.

Whatever style you choose, Keating says, “make sure they have some level of sparring.

No-contact sparring doesn't count. Watch the classes and see if the kids are having fun but are being kept under control.”

In this sense, sparring means practicing your techniques against a resisting opponent, as opposed to hitting pads or hitting the air or even throwing a compliant partner to the ground.

While these all have a place in training, they should at some point be supplemented with resisted training.

Don’t believe anyone who tries to tell you that they never spar because continued on next page...

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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Feature Just as it is prudent to wear your seat belt while driving, it makes sense to know how best to respond to violence.

Sam Harris

all their techniques are too deadly to be used, except in a life or death situation. While there should always be some limitations, rules and necessary protective equipment, a technique that is never trained against someone trying to prevent you applying it is probably not going to be useful when you need it most.

For this reason, grappling arts like judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu and western style wrestling are often a good fit for children. In contrast to styles which focus on striking, the techniques in grappling can be trained at, or close to, full intensity. When a hold or position becomes painful or too difficult, the option is always there to “tap” or submit and restart without injury.

As Keating says, “An adult who is interested in martial arts will happily practice techniques repetitively until they can memorise it, kids will not readily do that, but they will wrestle and grapple all day.”

Aside from their undoubted effectiveness, grappling arts have the benefit of giving a competent practitioner a means of ending a confrontation without injury and de-escalating a situation by physically controlling a person without actually hurting them.

Striking arts such as boxing, kickboxing, taekwondo and karate are more difficult to train at full intensity but can be extremely effective when well taught. They also give a different set of options to resolve a situation when, for instance, rolling around on the ground might be unwise.

Many people have begun to cross train in 2 or more different styles, usually a striking and a grappling style. Some schools offer both options under the one roof but be sure that all the instructors are fully qualified in the style they teach and it’s not just a case of shoehorning

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

some extra training in to accommodate the mixed martial arts trend.

Anger management One of the ongoing debates around martial arts is whether training actually helps children to control aggression or merely gives aggressive kids better means to hurt somebody. The worry in teaching a child the techniques to potentially hurt someone is that they will lack the maturity to understand when not to hurt people.

Troubled boxing champion Mike Tyson is living proof of the fact that you can master a style of fighting perfectly without any actual benefit to self-discipline outside of competition but Keating believes that a good school and good instructor will have the opposite effect.

“Some people are concerned that teaching a kid to fight encourages them to fight, but this is not the case. It channels their natural aggression and competitiveness into something positive.

Vice becomes virtue. Suppressing this is what really leads to it surfacing in more negative ways. Without self-discipline and self-control the kids learn very little when training.”

Martial arts training, at its best, serves to demystify violence. Boys in particular are prone to aggressively escalating confrontations because they don’t fully understand the consequences of a fight.

Long hours of bruising, physical training where they are quite often on the losing side of an encounter helps them to understand that there is very little that’s glorious, easy or inconsequential about fighting. It also can reduce any need they have to ‘prove themselves’ for the sake of their own ego.

For girls, the demystifying process can be a slightly different one. Less prone to rough and tumble games as part of the normal process of growing up, girls can often be paralysed if violence is used against them in earnest.

Through training they can learn not just physical techniques to protect themselves, but the ability to control their emotional reactions to violence. continued on next page...

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Feature Here is a brief rundown of some of the more popular martial arts that can be found locally.

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Karate is a traditional Japanese martial art that emphasises striking techniques such as punching and kicking. There are many different styles of karate. American servicemen stationed in Japan after World War 2 were largely responsible for the explosion of popularity in karate in the west. For a long time, karate was synonymous with Oriental martial arts.

Practitioners can choose to focus on competitive, sport style or more purely self-defence. Traditionally karate is often taught as much as a philosophy of self-improvement as a style of fighting.

An ancient western martial art (yes, really!) that dates back thousands of years. Boxing involves purely punching techniques and contests are governed by a rule set that rewards application of those techniques to the opponent’s head and body.

There is an amateur and professional competitive aspect though many people choose to practice a non-contact version purely for fitness. Professional boxers are usually among the world’s highest paid athletes while amateurs can compete at Olympic level. Also great for self defense and fitness.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu evolved from the Judo and traditional Japanese jujitsu brought to Brazil

by Japanese immigrants in the early 1900s. The main difference BJJ has to its parent styles is the heavier focus on ground fighting and submission holds, compared to Judo’s greater emphasis on throws. It has become wildly popular in recent years as one of the chief component arts of Mixed Martial Arts competitions.

BJJ is competitive up to World Championship level and is also excellent for self-defence, particularly for smaller, weaker people.

Like Karate, Kung Fu is not really one art, but a wide variety of different Chinese styles under one umbrella. In general though, Kung Fu emphasises striking techniques, often interspersed with some flashy sword waving.

Most Kung Fu is excellent for fitness and flexibility. The organised competitive aspect is relatively undeveloped but many Kung Fu styles have a strong performance focus, where practitioners display spectacular, choreographed manoeuvres for audiences and as such it may suit artistic kids.

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

Tae Kwon Do is a Korean art derived mostly from Japanese Karate that has become popular in the West. It’s noted for its variety of spectacular kicking techniques.

The competitive aspect can take kids all the way to Olympic level and its kicking techniques are perfect for flexible young legs.

Another Japanese art that was developed from the older jujitsu in the late 1800s. Judo means ‘the gentle way’ and focuses on grappling techniques such as throws, trips, joint locks and other submission holds. Don’t let the ‘gentle way’ stuff fool you, judo is highly physical and excellent for self-defence.

Judo teaches the principles of defeating greater force and strength with leverage and agility and there is a competitive aspect up to Olympic level.

Muay Thai is a form of kickboxing developed in Thailand which utilises punches, kicks, knees and elbows.

Muay Thai has become extremely popular in the West since the late 20th century, both as a professional spectator sport and a martial art for kids and adults.

It is a well organised combat sport at amateur and professional level and very effective for selfdefence and fitness.

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Infinity offers more than just Martial Arts If you’re looking for a way to encourage your child to get active, become more vibrant and increase confidence levels, then enrolling them at Infinity Martial Arts may just be the answer.

Infinity Martial Arts offers a range of fun and interactive classes for 2-15 year olds that have been designed to make sure every child is challenged and given the chance to reach their full potential.

With classes starting for children as young as 2, it allows kids to get a head start on learning vital skills such as paying attention, listening and showing self-control. The classes focus on hand and eye coordination, which is extremely important in early learning development.

For the slightly older age groups the classes are a fantastic outlet for children to release energy and build confidence, while improving coordination, flexibility and balance. The students will further their knowledge in self-defence, safe rolling and grappling techniques.

Infinity Martial Arts Head Instructor, Neil Owen, said the classes were not just about learning the latest Martial Arts moves, but about character building and really allowing each child to grow and develop into the best person they can possibly be. “We are thrilled at the improvement in behaviour that we see as each child progresses in their martial arts journey, there really is so much more to the classes than just learning martial art techniques,” he said.“We have even just started a new leadership program that allows our older aged kids to help mentor the younger children and we are seeing some amazing results with self esteem growth and mentoring abilities.”

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

All instructors at Infinity Martial Arts are full-time professionals that take pride in teaching quality, child-friendly martial arts as well as life lessons which include self discipline, strength, respect, honour and personal safety.

Each age group has been covered with the Cubs class for 2-3 year olds, the Koala’s class catering for the 3-5 year olds, the Python’s for children 6-8, Scorpion’s for 9-11 year olds and the Tiger Sharks for the 12-15 year olds.

If you want to give you’re the best start in life, bring them along for a free trial class and let them see what all the fun is about. Academies are located in Noosa, Maroochydore and Currimundi. Call 1300 INFINITY for more details.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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NEW TO THE COAST New to the Coast shares exciting new changes and products by local businesses that cater to Sunshine 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 new ventures to get off the ground by taking a look at what they’ve got to offer.

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

Kinesiology for Families Toni Burnett’s passion is to help families to be their healthiest and happiest and with two young children of her own understands how important this is. Kinesiology is a practice that combines science and energy to promote health and wellness. It recognises the person as a whole – anatomy, thoughts, emotions and energy systems.

Balance for Health and Wellbeing can help with food sensitivity testing, emotional support, immune system support, aches and pains, anxiety, depression, learning problems, fears and phobias, headaches, migraines, addictions, low energy, stress, hormone problems and jaw problems.

Ph: 0439 455779 | www.balance4health.com.au

Reliable, Efficient, Affordable Legal service New Grass Labyrinth No technology, good fun for all ages. Try the new grass labyrinth now open at Bellingham Maze. The ancient labyrinth design dates back to 1200 BC and is still found all over the world. Where a maze has choices in the pathways, a labyrinth has a single winding path leading from the entrance to the centre.Today labyrinths are still found in churches, public gardens and parks.

Recovering patients and their visitors use them to relieve stress, retreats use them for meditation, reflection and exercise. They can stimulate creative thinking and problem solving. Today the labyrinth still remains a metaphor for one’s journey through life.

Ph. 5445 2979 | www.bellmaze.com Bellingham Maze - Tanawha Tourist Drive, Tanawha

16

Kids on the Coast – January / February 2014

rb family law was established by its Principal, Candice RosboroughBall, with a clear and simple objective – to provide a reliable, efficient and affordable legal service to family law clients that fit around their busy work and family schedules while still achieving positive outcomes. rb family law will travel to you and offer an initial FREE half an hour consultation. rb family law will help you with: • parenting arrangements; • financial support for you and your children; • property arrangements before and while living with a partner; • property arrangements on separation • obtaining a divorce www.rbfamilylaw.com.au | Ph. 5430 6667

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Chiropractic for Kids

We offer care for all family members, including during pregnancy

Did you know that newborns, toddlers and children benefit from chiropractic care?

We provide a safe environment and gentle adjusting techniques specialising in: • Balancing the brain and nervous system • Cranial and spinal adjusting Many parents report an improvement in: • Settledness • behaviour • reflux • immunity • neurological development

Noosa Family Chiropractic Healthy Brain, Healthy Life...

For the Whole Family

Contact u today fo s complim r a entary initial consulta tion

Family rates available

Dr Rosemary Keating BAppSc (Chiropractic) MChiroSc (Paediatric) 220 Edwards Street, Sunshine Beach T: 07 5474 8338 E: admin@noosafamilychiropractic.com W: www.noosafamilychiropractic.com

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

17

T he P Files

Developing childrens

communication and social skills

By Dr Kelly Bowers Youthrive integrated therapy services

Imagine not having the necessary skills to communicate and interact with your friends, family, co-workers or the cashier at the supermarket.

How would it impact on your ability to achieve your daily or weekly tasks? How would you feel?

W

e often underestimate the importance of our social and communication skills, even though we rely on them heavily to get through our day. While social and communication skills are obviously used to build relationships and bonds with other people, we sometimes forget that they are also important for the growth of other areas of our life as well, including: • developing our sense of self • building self-esteem • understanding other people and why they behave the way they do • understanding how other people see us and our behaviour • developing emotional regulation skills so we can remain calm and in control of ourselves • establishing problem solving, conflict management, and team building abilities. continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Clothing, Gifts and Toys for boys and girls Ages 0000-14 years

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19

T he P Files

While there is no hard and fast rule, observing your child and comparing their development to their same-aged peers may give you some indication of how they are progressing.

Early childhood is an important time to develop these skills. Social functioning in childhood often predicts our social ability in later life and has been shown to impact on success at school, finding and maintaining employment, establishing positive social and romantic relationships and achieving a positive quality of life.

Sadly, not everyone has the opportunity to adequately develop these important life skills. According to the 2012 Australian Early Developmental Index (AEDI), 10.5% children aged 0–5 years living across the Sunshine Coast region are identified as being “developmentally vulnerable” when it comes to their social skills. That means that they’ve experienced developmental delays or are at risk in future. The national average is 9.3%.

There are many reasons why some children experience a delay in their social and/or communication skill development. While delayed social skills are commonly associated with a diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), social and communication delays may also occur for children and young people who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and for individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect, or who have a disability.

Are my child’s social and communication skills developing appropriately?

While there is no hard and fast rule, observing your child and comparing their development to their same-aged peers may give you some indication of how they are progressing. Often observations and feedback from teachers, other parents, and other children may also help. Information and fact sheets about the developmental milestones children should achieve at certain ages may also help you understand how your child is progressing.

You can access this information from various government websites www.qld.gov.au/health/ children/babies/milestones or youthrive.com.au During early childhood (0–6 years old), children typically begin to learn how to engage in imaginative play, how to interact with other children their own age, how to share toys or objects, and how to begin describing their own feelings. In later childhood (6–12 years old), skills in negotiation and conflict resolution (without parent support), in addition to the understanding of other people’s points of view, typically begin to develop.

If you are concerned about your child’s level of development, you can have a professional continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

$11 REGISTER NOW TO BE IN TO WIN A free term’s worth of fees, personalised Kiddie Kicks soccer t-shirt & kids soccer ball (valued at $155).

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

21

T he P Files

assessment of their developmental needs. While a visit to your doctor or a child health clinic may be your first port of call, additional support from allied health professionals (i.e. speech pathologists and psychologists) may also be beneficial. Speech pathologists typically assess speech, language and communication skills, while psychologists assess emotional regulation abilities and broader social skill development.

Both professional groups are able to provide follow-up support to overcome any barriers to social and communication skill development that may have been identified during the assessment.

While this may sometimes seem like a daunting process at first, it doesn’t need to be. Just because your child may experience some delays in their social and communication skills, does not necessarily mean they are going to experience “serious” problems now or in the future. Remember that even if your child develops a little slower than their peers, it is possible for them to catch up. The benefit of addressing some of your child’s difficulties early will most likely mean that they are able to overcome them sooner, and adjust and cope with the demands in social and school environments.

As your child gets older, it may also be beneficial to talk with them about how to make friends and the values of friendship.

How can I support my child’s social and communication needs?

While professionals such as psychologists and speech pathologists may be able to provide some support, the majority of progress is most often made in your family home. The best tools that parents have are themselves. Modelling how to interact with other people in social situations, and indeed how you interact with your child, are your strongest teaching tools. Our children tend to watch and learn from us much more than we realise, so demonstrating good social skills in their presence is beneficial. If you are unsure what this looks like, think about the people who are closest to you and the reasons why they have had such a positive impact on your life. You may find that these people are more likely to be positive, caring, open and empathetic towards you, so aim to model these behaviours. Easier said than done, right? Getting back to the basics of social skills is often the best way to achieve this, for both you and your child.

People who are caring, genuine and empathetic towards us generally have all the skills of a good listener. They maintain good eye contact, have an open posture, ask questions about us, and summarise our thoughts and feelings. These same skills need

to be demonstrated to your child before they can begin to use them for themselves. It is important to remember that the effectiveness of your communication is often measured by the response that you get from the person you are communicating with, so if your child doesn’t respond to your communication in the way you hoped, then perhaps the delivery of your message needed to be clearer.

Eye contact Get down to your child’s level. Look them directly in the eye when giving them instructions or playing with them. It is hard for children to connect with us when we tower over them, or if we are distracted by other things around us.

Show your child that they have your complete attention and that you are there to listen.

Have an open posture Position yourself with your shoulders front-on to your child and try to avoid crossing your arms or having obstacles between you and your child when you’re interacting with them. This invites your child to come closer, and tells them that they are welcome to come to you and share their thoughts and feelings. Remember that your body language often speaks louder than your words. continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Early Intervention Therapy

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Occupational Therapists have an understanding of physical, cognitive (mental) and behavioural development and they aim to develop, restore, enhance or adapt a child’s abilities, to optimise functioning at home, at school and in the community. Occupational Therapists work with children who are experiencing, or are at risk of experiencing difficulties: • Fine motor development, including handwriting • Poor co-ordination • Sensory issues • Difficulties with play • Self care - dressing, eating • Attention difficulties

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Adapt provides Children health services including:

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Adapt Health Care provides early intervention therapy services to children between 0-10 years with a focus on Speech and Language Pathology and Occupational Therapy. Adapt delivers a co-ordinated multidisciplinary approach to help your family and child achieve their goals.

Speech Pathologists assess and manage children requiring assistance in five main areas: • Speech • Oral and written language • Voice • Fluency • Swallowing Adapt Health Care Speech and Language Pathologists are also able to offer the Hanen Programs “More than Words” and Talkability”.

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Adapt Health Care offer consultations at home, school or daycare

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10 week workshops on the Sunshine Coast Children 4-7 years, and 8-11 years

Children: • Learn how to be brave and use assertive communication skills • Develop an understanding of their own and others feelings • Learn how to recognise and self-regulate feelings • Learn strategies to change unhelpful thinking into more helpful thinking • Become aware of their self talk and that they can control what they are thinking • Recognise that our thinking affects the way we feel and the way we behave • Develop empathy skills and ways to use strengths to help others • Learn how to achieve goals or overcome fears • Develop ways to reward themselves for doing their best and having a go • Look for role models and support networks • Explore friendships- what makes a good friend and how to be a good friend

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For more information or to book your child’s place, call Donna Farman Mobile: 0414 674 674

Groups are run by registered teachers and facilitators of the Fun Friends and Friends for Life Programs. These programs are authored by Brisbane psychologist Dr Paula Barrett (www.pathwayshrc.com.au) and have been recognised by the World Health Organisation. Research has shown the positive effects of the strategies and skills taught in the program in the prevention of anxiety/depression as well as for general well being and ability to cope with life for all children.

Call Donna 0414 674 674

2 Parent Information sessions included

www.growingearlychildhood.com.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Layby available JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

23

T he P Files

Listening skills This is more than just sitting silently and waiting for your child to stop talking. Check your understanding of what your child has said by summarising or repeating what has been said.

Ask questions if you are unsure about anything, and encourage your child to be more specific where possible.

Speech and language The best way to encourage your child’s speech and language development is simply talking to them! Talk about what you and your child are doing during play and throughout the day; use a variety of words to assist with vocabulary development. Enjoy books together; have fun talking about the pictures and ask questions throughout. Link what is happening within the book to your child’s real-life experiences.

Face-to-face interactions In general, try not to rely too heavily on telephone or social media to communicate.

Engage in as many face-to-face interactions as possible in the presence of your child. It will be hard for them to learn from you if you communicate mainly through other mediums.

From your face-to-face interactions with other people, your child will learn that communication is a whole body activity. They will learn to read

24

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

body language and adjust their behaviour at appropriate times.

Provide clear, simple instructions and remain patient.

When you are teaching your child any new skill, it is important that you provide them with simple instructions. Focus on one skill at a time and break down each of these behaviours where possible. Remember to be patient while your child develops these skills. Allow them time to work out problems or to explore how things work on their own, before jumping in and doing it for them. Give your children the opportunity and time to respond to your questions or requests.

Model age appropriate social play Play with your child in a way that you would like them to interact with their peers. This is a free pass to be a ‘big kid’. Get on the ground and play at their level and try to be in the moment, as they often are. Be inquisitive. Ask questions.

Show that you are interested in what they are doing and why they are doing it. Be sure to demonstrate manners and how to share and take turns.

This is also an opportunity to demonstrate problem solving and conflict management skills.

In these instances, take turns expressing what your needs are, and allow your child to do the

same. Then work on developing a compromise that satisfies the needs of both parties. It is important to be mindful of the developmental milestones during this process, your child may not be expected to develop some of these skills until they reach later childhood or adolescence.

Once you have begun modelling and practicing positive social behaviours with your child, it is also important to provide opportunities for them to interact with their peers. This gives them opportunities to practice and develop their skills in other environments. Try to only intervene in your child’s play when needed, allow them the opportunity to attempt to solve any conflicts with their peers before you step in. As your child gets older, it may also be beneficial to talk with them about how to make friends and the values of friendship. Encourage them to think about the type of people who they would like to be friends with, and the type of friend that they would like to be.

Although the early development of these skills is beneficial, it is important to note that we are never too old to continue to improve our social and communication skills. With good development of these skills, conflicts are likely to be resolved more efficiently, relationships are likely to grow stronger, and overall quality of life is likely to improve – all important aspects in anyone’s life. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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Education

UNschooling Unschooling is a viable home education philosophy for a growing number of Queensland families. It is child-driven learning and is based on the principle that children learn naturally, just as they learn to walk and talk. This philosophy moves away from structured learning, where children follow a set curriculum, with lesson plans, textbooks and a strict daily schedule.

By Sandra Smith continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Junior Years @ GSLC Building the Foundations for Success Good Shepherd Lutheran College is a dynamic P-12 Co-ed Christian College offering a unique program for Prep - Year 5 including:

International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program Engaging and challenging academic, sporting and cultural programs Affordable all-inclusive fee structure College owned and operated fleet of buses servicing a wide area

Call us today to start your child’s education journey with Good Shepherd Lutheran College.

Good Shepherd Lutheran College provides quality Christian education in a caring environment.

115 Eumundi Road, Noosaville

5455 8600

gslc.qld.edu.au

The best start to high school

• Comprehensive secondary program that begins in Year 7 • Academic excellence in literacy and numeracy from Prep to Year 12 • Vacancies noW and enrolling for 2014.

Lomond Crescent,Caloundra West

07 5490 5777 www.uc.qld.edu.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

27

Education His learning has had purpose to him rather than him being taught things that have no relevance to his life.

Heather Haines

F

or children who have attended a mainstream school, unschooling may be preceded by a period of deschooling, a term that describes the transition to home education after they leave school.

Proponents of unschooling argue that children are naturally curious about the world and they learn best by absorbing what is going on around them. But can children be trusted to direct their own learning and will this method of home education prepare them for the real world?

WHY HOME SCHOOL? Sunshine Coast mother-of-two and home schooler Heather Haines believes school does not meet the needs of all children and parents are looking for alternatives. Heather says she has heard some “harrowing stories” from

other families she meets through home school community activities and through her internet group, SunnyHomeschool Support Hub. Heather turned to home schooling when her son, Samuel, was 10 years old. She describes Samuel as a quirky, different child who found it difficult to fit in and had come to “the end of the road” in mainstream school. He was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of four, and was later found to be gifted as well as having dysgraphia and Aspergers.

“Teachers did not have the training to really understand his diverse needs and other children did not really get him either, which resulted in quite a lot of bullying of Samuel by other children,” Heather says.

“We tried a number of different schools until finally Samuel was starting to get depressed.

He thought he was not very clever, because he

could not write and he had no friends.”

Heather says she couldn’t stand by and watch her “upbeat child disappear into depression” just because he couldn’t fit in, so she decided to pull him out of school and has never returned. Through home schooling, she was able to focus on what he could do, rather than what he could not do, with great results.

An avid reader, Samuel developed an interest in computer programming and taught himself a number of programming languages. He started his tertiary studies at the age of 14 at the University of the Sunshine Coast, and is now studying software engineering at the University of Queensland.

“This has all come from his passion and interests and teaching himself what he needed to know at any given time,” Heather says. “His learning has had purpose to him, rather than him continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Faith Diligence Love

Opening doors to fun-filled learning To celebrate the successful growth of our Little Learners program, we have opened our new purpose designed Kindy facility.

Kindy | 3½ – 4½ year olds A rich early learning program including music, PE, library and computer lessons.

Updated play equipment and learning facilities.

Pre-Kindy | 2½ – 3½ year olds See our current Little Learners dance, sing, create, imagine and share their way through each day.

Book a tour by calling Janelle on 5451 3600

E. info@suncoastcc.qld.edu.au | A. Cnr Schubert & Kiel Mtn Rds, Woombye

www.suncoastcc.qld.edu.au

Caloundra City Private School Give your child the Star Treatment at the new City Stars Kindergarten!

Our brand new state-of-the-art Kindergarten at Caloundra City Private School is now offering Before & After Kindy Care!

This fully air-conditioned, eco-friendly kindergarten is now open and the children love it.

City Stars Kindergarten is open to all children 4 years of age by 30 June 2013. Classes are strictly limited to 24 students with individual needs catered for by a qualified teacher and assistant ensuring your child has every opportunity to thrive.

Students will enjoy the future of learning with iPads too.

CC19761A

Ph: 5437 5800 CRICOS NO: 03241C

Email: admin@ccps.qld.edu.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

www.ccps.qld.edu.au

Pelican Waters Boulevard, Pelican Waters JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

29

Education being taught things that have no relevance to his life.”

Although Heather stumbled into home schooling as a result of her son’s difficulties at school, she is now home schooling her daughter, Poppy, because she loves the lifestyle choices so much.

Poppy, aged seven, is doing very well at home and Heather says she is on a par with her peers who go to school. A self-directed child, Poppy is able to spend more time on art and music at home than what she would at school.

She will often start painting or doing her own research and writing without being asked to, or she may simply do Lego all day.

As you let go of the reins a little bit more and you’re seeing the results already and you’re seeing just how easily they learn, you allow learning to take place naturally.

Csilla Tottszer

“She is gaining something from those experiences and if I sat and analysed what she was doing, I could link much of the learning that has been going on to the national curriculum,” Heather says.

UNSCHOOLING Unschooling is characterised by a flexible and open learning style that allows children to engage deeply with topics that inspire their imagination and enthusiasm. Children develop their own learning style and pursue their passions at their own pace, while learning through everyday tasks like cooking, shopping or gardening.

Heather says unschooling, or natural learning, is very much about letting the child lead the way with their own education. Children are encouraged to develop independence, selfreliance and responsibility.

A qualified teacher, Heather used structured lessons when she first started to home school Samuel, but she soon found this did not work for him. continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Early Learning for 3 - 5 year olds •

Free twice weekly specialist lessons in Sport & visits to onsite Junior Primary Library.

•

Regular onsite Farm excursions & Korean cultural classes.

•

$74 per day (before CCB), morning tea is provided.

McKenzie Road WOOMBYE | P: 5451 3333 E: enrolments@ncc.qld.edu.au | www.ncc.qld.edu.au

Pre-Kindy & Kindy • From 3 Years of Age • Extended Hours - 8am-4pm • Play-Based Learning • Nurturing Environment • CCB & CCR Benets Available

Pre-Kindy to Year 12

Primary, Middle & Senior School • Christian Values & Standards • Whole Brain Teaching • Inspiring Students to Excellence • Staff Dedicated to Student’s Needs • Partnering with Families

7 Gregson Place Caloundra 4551

Providing quality Christ-centred education, strong foundations for life and learning

P: 07 5436 6777

W: www.calcc.qld.edu.au

PACIFIC LUTHERAN EARLY LEARNING Specialist early childhood teachers and assistants inspire a love of learning in children. Creativity and confidence are nurtured as children explore the Queensland Kindergarten Guidelines.

Pacific offers a kindergarten program within a long day care model for 3½ and 4 year olds.

PHONE Chris Henschke, College Registrar on 5436 7321 LOCATION Woodlands Boulevard, Meridan Plains 4551 www.pacificlutheran.qld.edu.au

SCAN to visit our website.

Where curiosity leads to discovery www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

31

Education

RESOURCES Home Education Association: www.hea.asn.au Home Education Unit, Education Queensland: www.education.qld.gov.au Homeschool Australia: www.homeschoolaustralia.com SunnyHomeschool Support Hub: www.facebook.com/Sunny Homeschool?ref=hl Csilla Tottszer (home school consultant): www.lovelearnlive.com.au

“We quickly moved on to topic-based learning whereby he would choose his topic and we would totally immerse ourselves in it and I would somehow weave in numeracy, literacy or whatever other curriculum area I could into the topic he was studying,” she says.

“This worked well for us, but over time we just kind of slipped into the unschooling way of learning more and more, whereby Samuel really would just do what he wanted to do.”

Heather says people worried that they were not covering a wide range of subject areas, but she did not find this to be true for Samuel.

“I think children are naturally curious and if you provide a rich learning environment with lots of resources that are conducive to sparking a child's curiosity, you will be surprised how much learning goes on,” she says.

“Just going to the beach you might start talking about the ocean and what animals live there and what the sand is made from and about erosion or whatever else comes up. It really is just a very natural way of learning. You cannot help to learn just by being alive.”

DESCHOOLING Deschooling is a time of adjustment to learning at home, when children first leave school. It can be a confusing and scary time. Parents are finding their feet as tutors and children are adapting to the changes in lifestyle and routine.

Heather says that deschooling is a time when children first come out of school and just “be”.

Children may have had long periods of stress or been victims of bullying at school, and Heather says they need time to recover from that.

“Many children who turn to home schooling have done so because school has not been a good fit for them and coming home can be a time of recovery from the stress of school,” she explains.

“Samuel and I spent our time just going out to continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Caloundra City Private School Excellence, Integrity, Learning Caloundra City Private School is an award winning Kindergarten to Year 12 co-educational and non-denominational school set in beautiful grounds at Pelican Waters.

ENROL NOW FOR 2014 Call us today and make the first move towards a better future for you and your child.

CC19761B

Ph: 5437 5800 CRICOS NO: 03241C

Email: admin@ccps.qld.edu.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

www.ccps.qld.edu.au

Pelican Waters Boulevard, Pelican Waters JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

33

Education I think children are naturally curious and if you provide a rich learning environment with lots of resources that are conducive to sparking a child's curiosity, you will be surprised how much learning goes on.

the beach, bush walking and just having fun. No pressure until it was just a natural progression onto him wanting to learn about things.”

Heather sees unschooling as a continuation of the deschooling process, whereby the child leads in their own learning and has ownership of it.

REGISTERING AND REPORTING The number of children registered for home education with Education Queensland has increased by 44 per cent over the last four years, from 772 in 2010 to 1,108 in 2013. Despite the growth, it remains a small niche in the education sector.

Department of Education, Training and

Employment (DETE) deputy director-general Gabrielle Sinclair advises that the department recognises that home education provides choice to parents in determining the appropriate education outcomes for their children.

To maintain home school registration, parents must submit an annual written report to Education Queensland that demonstrates the child’s educational progress.

“In addition to the annual written report, parents provide annotated work samples to demonstrate educational quality and progress,” Ms Sinclair states.

The department’s Home Education Unit provides advice and suggestions for planning a suitable program, including referrals to free

online resources, however, there is currently no provision for home visits.

Ms Sinclair advises that the department does not pass judgement on applications for home education on the basis of the parents’ educational philosophy, for example, unschooling.

“Parents are required to outline how they will provide a high-quality education specific to their child’s learning needs in accordance with this philosophy,” she says.

THE HOME SCHOOL JOURNEY Sunshine Coast mother-of-four and author Csilla Tottszer was initially reluctant to educate her children at home, but after visiting a mainstream continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FOUNDATION COLLEGE (PREP TO YEAR 2) Specialist early childhood teachers support a strong focus on literacy, numeracy and problem solving.

A warm, stimulating, nurturing environment founded on Christian values, featuring: • Strong parent partnerships • High levels of teacher aide support • A fostering of creativity and imagination PHONE Chris Henschke, College Registrar on 5436 7321 LOCATION Woodlands Boulevard, Meridan Plains 4551 www.pacificlutheran.qld.edu.au

SCAN to visit our website.

Laying a strong foundation www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

35

Education

So far none of our teenagers struggled to step into the mainstream school or life in the ‘real world.

Csilla Tottszer

school she realised that it was the right choice for her family. And she has never looked back.

Csilla’s home school journey began with her five-year-old daughter, Anneka, and her stepson, Jake, who had just finished Year Six at a mainstream school. After a shaky start, when she struggled with self-doubt and worried about social isolation, she slowly gained confidence and eventually home schooled her four children for a total of 15 years.

Although she never relied on formal lesson plans, Csilla used a structured approach to learning when she started out, however, this changed after she gained more experience and trust in the learning process. She found that her children didn’t need the structure that is necessary in a regular classroom, with its standardised tests, rigid rules and timetables.

Instead, she was guided by her children’s interests and fascinations.

“As you let go of the reins a little bit more and you’re seeing the results already and you’re seeing just how easily they learn, you allow learning to take place naturally,” she says. “The wonderful thing about home schooling is you’re there every step, so you’re seeing the learning take place.”

At home, the education is tailored to the individual child’s interests, so there is no such thing as a typical school day, however, Csilla explains that unschooling is not about letting kids do whatever they want. Instead, they come up with ideas and topics that they are inspired by and want to investigate, and they set their own pace.

“The children were encouraged to work unassisted, finding answers to problems by themselves when possible,” she writes in her book, Love, Learn, Live. “Also, the children had some input into what subjects were being focused on and how much time was going to be spent on them.”

Csilla says home schooling allowed for an amazing family life, with plenty of time to enjoy the Coast lifestyle. Flexible learning meant the children could follow their passion for surfing, skating and martial arts, while still achieving academically.

“The idea is that learning is everywhere,” she says. “Any number of psychologists will tell you that playing is where a lot of the learning is taking place.”

The children chose to make the transition to high school at Year 10 level, and she says that after the foundation years of home schooling, this was a “winning combination.”

“So far none of our teenagers struggled to step into the mainstream school or life in the ‘real world,’” she writes. “We also did this with much more ease and with a fraction of the stress compared with what their peers were experiencing at school.”

Csilla developed an eclectic teaching style, which combined a formal education in Maths and English with natural learning, thus leaving room for the children’s interests to grow. She has drawn on her home school experiences to write a book, set up a home school consultancy and tutor high school students.

SMIGGLE BACK TO SCHOOL PRIZE PACKS UP FOR GRABS Smiggle has ‘back to school’ covered with a massive range of bright and colourful essentials that are bound to make school a whole lot of fun!

Lunch boxes, school bags, loads of stationery, cool gadgets and much, much more!

In fantastic bright core colours of pink, purple, green, orange, blue and black, Smiggle's range is designed to inspire and develop creativity and above all, encourage everyone to have fun!

To ensure the new school year is totally awesome, we have four Smiggle Back To School prize packs to be won, each pack is valued at RRP$50. Each pack includes stacks of stationery essentials and more!

Stockists: Available from Smiggle stores nationally or www.smiggle.com.au

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

Wi

n!

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

ADVERTISEMENT/LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE

What is it? - “Homework” Who does it? - “Tired students and frustrated parents.”

By Mrs Genevieve Hudson – Assistant Head of Prep to Year 3, and Ms Liesl Walker – Year 3 Teacher, Sunshine Coast Grammar School

Homework is the cause of numerous arguments in many households. Do you ever stop to think about solving homework frustrations? Can you use critical and creative thinking for homework? Can you create a better system for homework using this critical and creative thinking?

Sue Thomson, the Head of Educational Monitoring and Research at the Australian Council for Educational Research says, ‘’Parents like children to have homework because they think it is part of what schooling is all about.’’

John Hattie, the Director of the Melbourne Education Research Institute at the University of Melbourne, says homework, as it is usually undertaken, is likely to have little to no effect in primary schools. ‘’I do not advocate abolishing it but trying something different,’’ he said, suggesting schools should consider inviting parents into the classroom to work with them on developing more appropriate homework challenges.

For young children, Professor Hattie says homework should not take more than five minutes and it should be used to deliberately practise something already taught in the classroom.Professor Hattie believes it is more important for children to interact with parents rather than spending “some hours on some project”. The key is the interaction with parents. Children will gain nothing if interaction with parents turns into more time in front of the television or computer screen. It’s about making learning fun.

Year 3 students have participated in an action research project designed by their teachers who were trying to make homework more engaging and meaningful for both parents and children. As part of an Active Thinking Project the teachers created homework tasks based on the Bloom’s Thinking Skills

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Framework which embedded ‘higher order’ thinking tasks into homework which students and parents were encouraged to undertake together.

The project was based on their belief that from a young age, children should be given the opportunity to actively think about a topic they are learning about.

They should be encouraged to discuss, compare, justify and debate current topics with their parents. They should be encouraged to formulate questions and explore ways to answer their questions. Pupils should be given challenges that can switch them on to learning and they can start to see learning in a whole different context.

Students had a variety of active thinking tasks set as their homework. While learning how to write narratives, students were given the homework task of creating a ‘double bubble’ chart to record their findings when comparing the differences between the characters of Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella.

This was to be done after discussion with their parents.

Students were also asked to discuss ‘open ended questions, for example, ‘Why do aeroplanes leave lines in the sky?’ Children seem to have enjoyed being given tasks that didn’t have a specific answer which they can explore.

These gave them opportunities to explain and justify their thoughts, without limitations.

Ask your child the question, ‘What makes the clouds stay up in the sky?’

Initially you may see a puzzled face before an inquisitive mind starts thinking and tries to find an answer. This is active thinking and this is an essential skill for 21st Century children!

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

37

C a l e ndar Sunshine Coast

January Until February 2

Day out with Thomas

Where: The Workshops Rail Museum When: 9:30am - 5pm daily Get active with circus fun, let off steam in the indoor adventure playground, meet Thomas & The Fat Controller in person and make your own craft creation to take home.

Details: Adult $20, Child (3-15 years) $11.50, Child under 3 Free, Family (2 adults + up to 4 children) $59. www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au

January 7 to 10

Grassheads workshop

A calendar of regular weekly events is available online. For details of playgroups, library activities, weekly sporting events, craft classes, Australian Breastfeeding Association meeting times and much more, visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

December 15 to January 26

Heritage Rail Motor tours of Gympie Rail Yard and Precinct Where: Old Gympie Train Station, Tozer Street, Gympie When: Tours depart on the hour, commencing 10am with last tour at 2pm Tour The Silver Bullet and The Red Rocket Details: Adults $5, Seniors $4, Children 4 - 10 $3 www.thevalleyrattler.com

January 10

Summer ArtsCool – 2D Artwork

Where: Food Court, Noosa Civic Shopping Centre Time: 11am - 2pm Get your hands dirty with this unique gardening activity. Every child will get their own fuzzy friend to keep with hair that grows!

Details: Free! www.noosacivicshopping.com

Where: Butter Factory Arts Centre Time: 11am - 12noon (5-8 yrs) & 12:30 - 2pm (9-12 yrs) Learn exciting mixed media skills and techniques with an experienced art teacher to create a colourful 2D artwork inspired by the current exhibition, Colour is My Voice.

Details: $8 per child per workshop, bookings and pre-payment essential. Call 5454 9050.

January 12

January 13 to 17

January 3

Starry Nights Outdoor Movie Noosa

January 4

Kids Club

Where: Caloundra Regional Gallery When: 10am - noon Free creative activities inspired by the current exhibition. All Ages.

Details: Free. No Bookings required.

5420 8299

Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (PG) February 7 – The Lion King (G) Where: Noosa Library (1st Friday of each month) When: Start: 6:30pmish Bring the family, set up your picnic blanket and enjoy this outdoor movie night under the stars.

Details: Free. www.starrynights.com.au

January 7 to 16

Backyard Biodiversity Where: Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, Palm Creek Road, Tanawha When: Various times per programs available from council libraries, galleries and customer service.

Children can have fun learning about just some of the native wildlife to be found on the Sunshine Coast during this exciting series of wildlife activities.

Details: $5 registration fee per child. www.community.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ events

Starry Nights Outdoor Movie Cooroy

January 10 – Tintin (PG) February 14 – The Notebook (PG) Where: Cooroy Library (2nd Friday of each month) When: Start: 6:30pmish Bring the family, set up your picnic blanket and enjoy this outdoor movie night under the stars.

Details: Free. www.starrynights.com.au

January 11

Y-shop

Where: Eumundi Markets When: 7am – 2pm Young entrepreneurs, aged 12 - 25, who were part of Sunshine Coast Libraries Y-shop, youth markets in December will be selling original hand-made arts and crafts.

Details: Free. www.library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

January 16

Family Day

Wednesday 15 January 2014

Sesame Street Live Show

Where: Noosa Regional Gallery, Riverside, Pelican St, Tewantin When: 11am - 2pm Creative activities for all ages, inspired by the current exhibition.

Details: Free. No Bookings required.

5449 5340

Where: Riverwalk Stage, Sunshine Plaza When: 10am, 11am, 1pm Enjoy Elmo and Cookie Monster along with your favourite songs in this show spectacular.

Details: Free. www.sunshineplaza.com

Stencilled Birds

The Silly Billies Free Family Show

January 16

When: 1:30pm - 3pm Children will create a beautiful artwork using layers of single colours and a variety of bird stencils onto a canvas board surface.

Ages eight to 12 years Details: $8. Bookings required.

5449 5340

Where: The Avenue, Maroochy RSL When: from 5:30pm Get to Kids Club early for face painting and fabulous balloon art, starting at 5:30pm. At 7pm see Jumping John, Ophelia the Fairy and Cosmo the Cool Puppy live on stage.

Details: 5443 2211. www.maroochyrsl.com.au. Facebook/ MysteryIslandKidsClub

January 18 & February 15

Lifeline Bookfest

Jumpin @ The J Unlimited fun on jumping castles and activities for one whole hour!

When: 9am / 10am / 11am Price: $10 Per Child / Per Hour Parent or Guardian FREE

January 17

Sand Casting

Where: Caloundra Regional Gallery, 22 Omrah Ave When: 10:30am - noon Using sand, shells and other found beach objects create sculptural forms in sand and cast your unique artwork in plaster. Children can make different castings. Ages five to seven years.

Details: $8. Bookings required.

5420 8299

January 18 to 27

Get Creative

Where: Butter Factory Arts Centre When: 10am – noon A series of free family orientated activities.

Be inspired by the latest exhibition then spend time creating your own artworks. All ages welcome!

Details: Free, no bookings required.

5454 9050.

38

Where: Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Merivale Street, South Brisbane There will be books of every size and genre, the most you will pay is $2.50, and you will be providing Lifeline with much needed funds to continue their community help programs.

Details: Free entry. www.uccommunity.org.au/lifeline-brisbanebookfest

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

January 17

Where: Caloundra Regional Gallery When: 1:30pm - 3pm Create some ‘gnarly’ surf designs on your own model surfboards from balsa wood.

Ages eight to 12 years.

Details: $8. Bookings required.

5420 8299

Beach Party

Magician

Where: Riverwalk Stage, Sunshine Plaza When: 10am – 1pm Details: Free. www.sunshineplaza.com

When: 10:30am - noon Where: Noosa Regional Gallery, Riverside, Pelican St, Tewantin Select your favourite bird image from the exhibition and do a pencil sketch in the gallery, then explore colour and texture with acrylic paint to create a unique and beautiful image of some of our feathered friends.

Ages five to seven years.

Design Your Own Surfboard

January 18 January 18 to 19

Painted Love Birds

Where: Mystery Island Kids Club, Maroochy RSL When: from 7pm Sunshine and palm trees but no sand between your toes, Hawaiian shirts and grass skirts, wear your beach party clothes. Hula and limbo or dance to beach party beats, there will be lots of cool summer treats.

Details: Entry into Mystery Island - $2.50 junior cadets, $4.50 visitors.

Starry Nights Outdoor Movie Eumundi

January 18 - Grease (PG) February 21 - ‘Mamma Mia’ (PG) Where: Eumundi Amphitheatre (3rd Sat of month) When: 6:30pmish Bring the family, set up your picnic blanket and enjoy this outdoor movie night under the stars.

Details: Free. www.starrynights.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

* We publish information based on what is supplied to us - to the best of our knowlege all details are correct at the time of printing, however we do recommend you check event details with the organisers

Markets

January 20 to 24

Cookie Decorating Workshop

February 16 Sunny Coast Baby and Kids Market Where: Caloundra Talara Primary College When: 8am - noon A locally owned market selling pre-loved, new and beautiful handmade items for the under fives. Details: http://sunnycoastbabykidsmarket.com.au/

Where: Food Court, Noosa Civic Shopping Centre When: 11 am and 1pm Come and decorate your own cookies and take them home to eat!

Details: $6 per session per child (includes mini chef kit). www.noosacivicshopping.com

January 22

January 20 to 24

Recycled Robot Challenge

Where: Butter Factory Arts Centre When: 3pm winner announced The Butter Factory Arts Centre invites children to create a robot sculpture from recycled materials. There will be a $50 art material prize pack for the winner.

Details: Free entry. Contact the Butter Factory Arts Centre on 5454 9050 for further information, entry form and competition guidelines.

February 16 The Mummy Tree Markets

January 25 to 26

Jumping Castle

Where: Riverwalk Stage, Sunshine Plaza When: 9am - 5:30pm (Sat) and 10:30am - 4pm (Sun) Details: Free. www.sunshineplaza.com

Monsters Inc. Interactive Activity Zone

Where: Riverwalk Stage, Sunshine Plaza When: 10am – 2pm Experience cool games, activities and school holiday fun.

Details: Free. www.sunshineplaza.com

Sunday January 26

Australia Day at Mystery Island

Sunday 26 January 2014

Australia Day Dunny Races

Where: Mystery Island Kids Club, Maroochy RSL When: All day Kangaroos and cockatoos, Aussie slang and songs.... From the bush to the beach let's celebrate with Aussie games and craft, bring your Aussie flag and come along.

Details: Entry into Mystery Island - $2.50 junior cadets, $4.50 visitors www.maroochyrsl.com.au/mystery-island Facebook/MysteryIslandKidsClub

Australia Day at Aussie World attracts thousands of people looking for family fun.

The day is filled with true blue events, entertainment and food suitable for the entire family.

Starts 10am Details: Visit - http://www.aussieworld.com. au/events/australia-day-in-sunshine-coast

February February 5

Time for Tots Storytelling

Where: Butter Factory Arts Centre When: 9:30am – 10:30am Storytelling for under 5’s and families.

Details: Free, no bookings required.

5454 9050.

February 7

Greenzone Disco

Where: The J Noosa, 60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Junction When: 6pm - 8pm Eight to 12 year olds welcome back the Greenzone Disco with enthusiastic cheers.

The same popular DJ will be running the nights with great prizes and giveaways, including best dressed.

Details: $6 Entry / $5 if in theme. www.scvenuesandevents.com.au

February 15 & 16

Travel Expo

Where: Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Merivale Street, South Brisbane When: 9am - 4pm All your travel needs under one roof: airfares, accommodation, cruises, coach tours, travel insurance and much more.

Details: www.travelexpo.net.au

February 22

Big Top Carnival

Where: Mystery Island Kids Club, Maroochy RSL When: from 7pm The big top carnival has arrived, our circus acts will have you in surprise. Get your ticket at the box office door, wear your circus costume for a spectacle of fun galore.

Details: Entry into Mystery Island - $2.50 junior cadets, $4.50 visitors www.maroochyrsl.com.au/mystery-island Facebook/MysteryIslandKidsClub

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Where: Mountain Creek State School Hall, Lady Musgrave Drive When: 9am -1pm A large selection of unique products and services for hip and stylish families, children’s entertainment, yummy food and more.

Details: http://themummytreemarkets.com.au/

Eumundi Markets - Every Wed & Sat Where: Memorial Drive, Eumundi When: Wed - 8am - 1:30pm, Sat 7am - 2pm You’ll find original artworks, sculptures, furniture, handmade toys, homewares, skincare as well as cutting edge fashion and jewellery by local designers, all guided by the ethos “make it, bake it, sew it, grow it”.

Details: http://www.eumundimarkets.com.au Big Pineapple Markets - Every Saturday Where: Big Pineapple, Nambour Connection Road, Woombye When: 6:30am - 1pm The biggest all-weather market with fresh fruit and veges plus an array of art, amazing food, clothing and more.

Details: www.bigpineapple.com.au/saturday-growers-markets Bazaar Saturday Markets - Every Saturday Where: Corbould Park Racecourse, Caloundra When: 7am - 1pm Showcasing the Sunshine Coast’s finest artists, designers, craftspeople, entertainers, fresh healthy produce and delicious food all in one fabulous undercover venue.

Details: www.thebazaarmarkets.com.au

Regular Events Monday to Saturday Maleny Dairies Farm & Factory Tour Where: Maleny Dairies, 70 McCarthy Road, Maleny 4552 Time: 10:30am & 2:30pm Come and experience life on a real farm and see the whole process of milk from the cow to the bottle.

Details: $9 per person (2yrs & over). Bookings: 5494 2392 www.malenydairies.com

Tickets January 23 Lake Kawana Community Centre http://www.scvenuesandevents.com.au

Nickleby the Magician January 14 Lake Kawana Community Centre http://www.scvenuesandevents.com.au

Pete the Sheep April 28 & 29 Lake Kawana Community Centre http://www.scvenuesandevents.com.au

January 28

Schools Clean Up Day Registrations for 2014 are now open - so put yourself into the picture in 2014 and register your school for Schools Clean Up Day. (Clean up Australia Day is March 2). www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au

Jurassic Joe

Angelina Ballerina - The Mousical January 8 to 12, 2014 Concert Hall, QPAC, South Bank, Brisbane http://www.qpac.com.au

The Illusionists 2 January 19 to 27 Concert Hall, QPAC, Brisbane http://www.qpac.com.au

Don Quixote Imperial Russian Ballet Company April 10, 2014 The Events Centre, Caloundra http://www.scvenuesandevents.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

39

Babies on the Coast

Before Words signing with your baby

By Maxine Arthur

W

e rely heavily on words to communicate and when our words are misunderstood and we fail to connect, we feel frustrated. Try communicating for a whole day without using words and you will understand why babies cry and toddlers throw tantrums!

Babies are born with the instinct to communicate and be understood. Switched-on parents give their baby lots of positive attention, through eye contact, smiling, talking, singing and touching. Babies respond by gesturing, smiling and making sounds, including crying, to communicate their needs, feelings and discoveries about the world. As hard as parents try, and as hard as baby tries, sometimes we just don’t know what baby is trying to tell us. Perhaps we should try another language.

Signing for hearing babies Baby sign language builds on baby’s instinctive use of gesture and the desire to communicate by teaching the precise signs of, for example, Auslan (Australian Sign Language) as a second language to facilitate communication with your pre-verbal child. It works because hand-eye coordination develops sooner than verbal skills, meaning that babies can learn simple signs for common words such as ‘eat’, ‘dad’, ‘cat’ and ‘book’ before they can speak them.

Sign language has been used by the deaf community as a means of communication since the 17th century but about 25 years ago American researchers identified the

many benefits of teaching signing to hearing children from an early age. This has led to the widespread development of baby sign language programs in America and the UK. There are now programs and some classes available in Australia.

In the mid 80s Dr Joseph Garcia, an American researcher, noticed that children of his deaf friends were communicating with their parents as early as six months old and acquired substantial vocabularies as early as nine months. He began researching the use of American Sign Language with hearing babies of hearing parents and found similar results. Babies consistently exposed to sign from six months began to respond around nine months of age.

What are the benefits of baby signing?

Researchers have identified many long-term benefits for signing babies.

Professor Linda Acredolo, after noticing her daughter making simple signs, paired with Professor Susan Goodwyn to conduct extensive baby sign language research at the University of California. They concluded that there were substantial language and cognitive benefits in teaching baby signing. Their research found that three year olds who were signing babies were talking like average four year olds. Cognitively, the same signing babies scored significantly higher on IQ tests than non baby signing children.

Dr Marilyn Daniels, author of Dancing with

Words: Signing for Hearing Children’s Literacy, has done extensive research on the benefits of signing with verbal children in the US and UK. Dr Daniels found: • Children who were exposed to sign language had larger English-language vocabularies than non-signing children.

• Children who learn sign language are more able to recognise letters and words and are better spellers.

• Children who learn sign language are generally more self-confident and have increased self-esteem.

• Using sign language from infancy through to sixth grade increases your child’s interest in books and results in improved literacy.

• Using sign language with your child stimulates whole brain development and memory skills as it uses both left and right hemispheres of the brain. Learning a spoken language uses only the brain’s left hemisphere and visual information the right hemisphere. When sign language is incorporated into learning activities, children are learning visually, verbally and kinesthetically (through movement) all at the same time.

• Sign language can strengthen fine motor skills. When babies begin to use signs they are usually not precise but with practice and repetition they begin to improve. This practice stimulates the parts of the brain responsible for fine motor skill development. continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FREE SUNGLASSES for your children when they get their eyes examined by a Looking Smart Optometrist.

Did you know…

30% of children have some type of eye condition that affects vision?

Free pair of sunglasses

In most cases if the eye condition is detected early enough, exercises can be given to avoid it developing into a vision problem at school. In some cases vision problems exhibit themselves in children who have short attention spans but often are undetected by the parents or carers.

(Up to RRP $19.95) for each of your children when they have an eye examination with a Looking Smart Optometrist.

(Age Limit from 6 months - 12 years)

At Looking Smart Optometrists we recommend a vision test for every child who is 6 months of age or older.

Easy parking

We bulk bill all eye tests so it costs you nothing to have it done, and you can feel secure that you are looking after your child’s eyesight.

Tests are fun for children

The test takes approx 15 minutes

All staff hold a current blue card Looking Smart Optometrists bulk bill

All eye examinations provided the patient has a Medicare or DVA card

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Phone: 5439 7844

Near Coles at Pelican Waters Shopping Centre, Pelican Waters Blvd, Pelican Waters Email: info@LSOPTOM.COM JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast 41

Babies on the Coast Baby signing is primarily about bonding with your child and communicating with your child.

They can communicate with you through sign and you can understand what they are saying to you.

Who uses baby signing?

Apart from parents who want to learn to communicate with their hearing baby, signing is used by parents to communicate with their deaf baby or a special needs child. Baby signing has been shown to be beneficial with children with Down Syndrome, Autism, Verbal Dyspraxia or any communication problem.

Teachers and childcare professionals have also found sign useful. At the Ohio State University Infant-Toddler Laboratory School infants have learned to use simple signs from American Sign Language to communicate needs before they can verbalise them. Kimberlee Whaley, co-ordinator of the program said: “It is so much easier for our teachers to work with 12-month-olds who can sign that they want a bottle, rather than just cry and have us try to figure what they want. We’ve known for a long time that there is a lot going on in young infant’s heads, but they don’t have the skills to use spoken language. However they do have the motor skills to use sign language.” One of the concerns parents had was that children wouldn’t learn to talk as quickly if they already knew the signs. “What we found is that their first spoken words are usually words they had already learned to sign. As children learn to speak more words, their use of signs fades away”, Whaley said. (Research News, Ohio University website) Parents and teachers may also consider baby signing an introduction to a second language.

Language skills are most easily acquired in the

42

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

first years of a baby’s life. If you introduce Auslan to your baby and continue with it through school years your child will have the social advantage of being able to communicate with the Australian deaf and hard of hearing community.

Where do I start?

In Queensland baby sign classes are hard to find. If you are lucky enough to be able to access classes such as the Sing and Sign Playgroup Course at Honeybee Creations on the Sunshine Coast, the face to face teaching will get you off to a flying start.

Honeybee Creations director, Lisa Mills, met with me recently to discuss baby signing.

Lisa says you can start teaching baby to sign at six months or as soon as he can point. “Baby signing is primarily about bonding with your child and communicating with your child. They can communicate with you through sign and you can understand what they are saying to you”, Lisa said.

The Honeybee baby signing courses are based on the work of Dr Joseph Garcia and his Sign with your baby program. The advantage of a class is that the teacher provides a model of effective delivery. Lisa teaches parents to be expressive in teaching the signs, but receptive skills are also important for two-way communication. Hearing people are used to listening for words but are not so used to watching for gesture and body language. “Baby signing is also about teaching parents to be

visually aware of their baby’s gestures, to be visually aware of baby trying to sign. If you are not reading baby’s cues, you will not be successful.”

Sometimes parents are concerned that teaching a baby to sign will delay a child’s speech. In fact it does the opposite. Lisa talked about how signing can be used to promote language development. Once a baby can speak a single word that he has been signing, parents can start combining two signs, and so on.

Lisa uses singing, toys and puppets to help teach signs. ‘If you can’t engage young children, you can’t teach them. You need to make good eye contact. Singing is absolutely the best way to teach signs.” For this reason Lisa has produced a video “Sing and Sign with Lisa”.

Some baby sign programs teach signs based on a baby’s natural gestures, on the assumption that proper sign language is too difficult for babies. Lisa prefers to teach Auslan signs.

“We underestimate how much is going on in children’s minds. We don’t need to dumb down either sign or verbal language. They just need time to learn the signs to express it.” Patience and consistent signing are needed to succeed. If you start signing at six months you may not see baby’s first signing until nine months.

Lisa said her playgroup course gives parents all they need to teach baby sign. If parents want to extend their Auslan skills there are community programs available. continued on next page... www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

ADVERTISEMENT/LOCAL BUSINESS

Restoring your confidence with bladder control Dr Petra Ladwig from Suncoast Women’s Centre understands the problems most women face after giving birth. One of the most embarrassing side effects is often incontinence which can occur due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. A lot of women simply put up with this as the natural course of being a woman after child birth but this need not be the case. If addressed early these problems can be managed, improved and even cured by something as simple and painless as sitting in a chair, fully clothed for 20 minutes!

The pelvic floor controls your urinary, bowel and sexual functions yet these muscles are your most neglected. The new ‘Wave Brilliance’ Magnetic Pelvic Floor Stimulation chair (magnetic chair) uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve impulses which rapidly flex and tighten your pelvic floor muscles.

This is the equivalent of approximately 200 pelvic floor contractions every minute at 20 times greater the intensity than the patient can do themselves!

It is the ideal way to kick start or regenerate the pelvic floor and surrounding muscles to restore strength, endurance and continence.

Treatments are tailored to individual patients but a typical therapy program consists of two 20 minute treatments per week for eight weeks. Of course children are most welcome to attend with you and can simply sit and play whilst you undergo your treatment.

www.petraladwig.com

For more information about the new Wave Brilliance magnetic chair treatment phone the Suncoast Women’s Centre on 5437 7244 or visit Suite 5, 5 Innovation Parkway, Birtinya (Kawana). Medicare rebates available.

Do YOU need quality childcare?

WE HAVE EDUCATORS OFFERING CARE FROM NOOSA TO CALOUNDRA • We tailor our services to meet your family’s needs, including casual and OVERNIGHT care.

• Flexible family environment • At very reasonable hourly rates • CCB and CCR available to qualifying families • Govt. rated as “Meets all 7 national quality standards”.

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WOULD YOU LIKE TO BECOME AN EDUCATOR? • Do you enjoy the company of children?

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Ph: 07 5449 1959 Mob: 0419 868 234

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

43

Babies on the Coast

It is so much easier for our teachers to work with 12-month-olds who can sign that they want a bottle, rather than just cry and have us try to figure what they want. We’ve known for a long time that there is a lot going on in young infant’s heads, but they don’t have the skills to use spoken language.

However they do have the motor skills to use sign language.

44

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

Not able to access a baby sign class?

There are excellent, well-researched programs and resources available online.

Australian Baby Hands is a program developed by Jackie Durnin about communicating with your baby using simple sign language based on Auslan. Products include books, flashcards, posters and videos.

Baby Signs Australia is a program based on the work of Acredelo and Goodwyn at the University of California. Baby Signs says that it uses ‘natural, simple baby friendly’ signs that are easier for babies to use ‘rather than complex signs developed for adults’. They also say “Our program is also very flexible, encouraging you to incorporate your own signs and Auslan”.

The product range includes videos, books, a signing toy and educator resources. (Baby Signs Australia website) Baby signing is not just a gimmick. Signing with your baby is easy, fun, and strengthens the bond between you. If it also fast tracks your baby’s language and general intellectual development as the research suggests, that’s even better.

For more information: www.honeybee-creations.com for general information about Auslan and details about baby sing and sign classes and resources. www.australianbabyhands.com for general information on baby signing and resources. www.babysignsaustralia.com.au www.bilby.net for resources for teaching sign to infants and toddlers http://raisingchildren.net.au offers excellent advice on communicating with your baby. Baby signing uses the same principles of attending to your baby’s attempts to communicate and reflecting these back, but is an additional tool which allows earlier and more precise communication.

Top TIPS things a parent/carer needs to know in Baby Signing

• Start with just a few signs • Always use the baby sign and spoken word together (repeat several times) • Point when possible • When necessary, gently guide your child’s hands • Make baby signing a regular part of your day • Watch for opportunities to model the signs (Make eye contact before modelling the signs with the spoken word) • Be flexible and watch for your baby’s creations • Be patient • Remember, make learning fun (Source: Honeybee Creations website)

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

45

Only Natural

Acupuncture and families

Health, Harmony & Meridians, Is acupuncture a safe treatment for the whole family?

By Belinda Hopper

I

n the West we tend to think of acupuncture as ‘alternative’ medical treatment: alternative to mainstream or conventional medical practice. Its ‘alternative’ status precludes it from Medicare rebates and it resides in the ‘extras’ category of Additional Therapies for health insurers.

Yet conventional, science-based medical practice was in its embryonic stages a mere two hundred years ago, with the first New England Journal of Medicine and Surgery published as late as 1812.

By contrast, acupuncture has been an established medical practice in China for at least four thousand years. The meridian pathways and pressure points used today were already established by 161 BC. Given the historical context, it is interesting that we give acupuncture the label ‘alternative’ and mainstream medical practice the term ‘conventional’.

So what, exactly, is acupuncture? What does it treat, and is it safe for children and pregnant women?

46

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

The Philosophy The philosophy behind acupuncture is that the body’s natural state is in harmony: when the flow of energy or life force, called Qi (pronounced Chee) moves freely through the body. This is the state of health. Sickness results from imbalance: when an action or force interrupts the flow of Qi through the body, whether by physical, emotional, psychological, or environmental stress.

Acupuncture is a treatment that involves the insertion of single use, sterile, disposable needles into acupuncture points to bring balance back to the flow of energy or Qi, to heal and maintain wellness.

The most common needles used are stainless steel and range in length from 8 mm to 7 cm. They are usually inserted 2.3 mm to 2.5 cm into the body and are between 0.12 mm to 0.35 mm in diameter.

Each session lasts between half an hour, to an hour. And, according to Waveny Holland, an experienced practitioner and Board Member of the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medical

Association (AACMA), some treatments bring healing after just one session.

What it treats As acupuncture has gained wider acceptance, acupuncturists are treating a variety of health issues: musculo-skeletal and joint problems including arthritis and fibromyalgia, as support during chemotherapy, and as treatment for gastro-intestinal problems like irritable bowel syndrome, constipation/diarrhoea and nausea/ vomiting.

It can also treat a wide range of ailments such as headaches, pain, rashes, chronic fatigue syndrome, respiratory infections, asthma, sinus, hay fever, and bladder infections. Women’s health is another area of treatment: fertility issues, menopause, menstrual disorders. It is also used in post stroke and weight loss therapy.

And perhaps surprisingly, acupuncture is used to treat mental health issues such as depression, and anxiety/panic attacks.

Since the late nineties, a host of academic research has been continued on next page... www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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47

Only Natural

The overall risk of acupuncture treatment was classified as ‘very low’ with the risk for any individual patient varying with the qualification and experience of the practitioner.

conducted into the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating the ailments practitioners claim it heals, and assessing the safety of the therapy, particularly for children.

Is it safe for Kids?

The AACMA states that, “acupuncture is safe at any age if performed by a qualified acupuncturist”. Children may be too young to understand what the word ‘puncture’ means.

But they quickly learn to fear needles! If it’s hard enough to coerce them to co-operate for immunisation needles, you may wonder if there are enough jellybabies in the world to convince them to lay very still so the nice practitioner can stick multiple long needles into various parts of their body—and leave them there for half an hour?

But Holland explains that for very young children or babies, needles aren’t retained, “they are a quick in out insertion. Or, laser acupuncture or acupressure on the points can be used instead of needles.”

The most common ailments children are treated for are reflux, teething, colds, gastro intestinal problems, eczema and rashes, and respiratory problems like asthma. Holland says even babies can benefit from a gentle acupuncture treatment, “to help with settling, feeding, wind and reflux”.

Is it safe for pregnant women?

A 2002 study by Adelaide University found that “no serious adverse effects arise from

acupuncture administered in early pregnancy”.

And the AACMA asserts that, “acupuncture is very safe at any stage of pregnancy if delivered by properly trained, qualified acupuncturists who are registered by the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA)”.

The most common reason pregnant women are treated is for morning sickness and Holland explains that there is no risk to the baby as the general points that needles are likely to be inserted are bilaterally on the inner forearm, a couple of finger widths above the wrist crease and on the outer aspect of the lower leg, below the knee.

Holland explains that post-birth acupuncture is also very useful for new mums to get their bodies rebalanced after delivery and claims it can help to improve breast milk supply. She says, “Treatments can also help mums through those early weeks where lack of sleep and exhaustion is common. Acupuncture can help replenish their depleted energy stores.”

Neck, back and shoulder pain are common complaints for new mums, with the constant handling of their baby, which are also treated by acupuncture.

Are there side effects?

Holland says that side effects are rare, especially if the practitioner is properly trained and is skilled. “Some side effects may be local bruising, soreness at the needle site, light headedness, sometimes there may be a short period of time post treatment that the person feels worse continued on next page...

48

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

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49

Only Natural

The most common ailments children are treated for are reflux, teething, colds, gastro intestinal problems, eczema and rashes, and respiratory problems like asthma.

before feeling better, but that is fleeting.”

However, a 2004 UK study by Adrian White, a Clinical Senior Lecturer at Plymouth Medical School, concluded that worldwide there had been 715 significant or serious adverse events reported in association with acupuncture. Fourfifths of cases were due to trauma or infection, in approximately equal numbers. There were 12 primary reports of deaths and 39 secondary reports.

Yet, the overall risk of acupuncture treatment was classified as ‘very low’ with the risk for any individual patient varying with the qualification and experience of the practitioner.

A 2011 study published in Pediatrics, The official journal for the American Academy of Pediatrics concluded that of the adverse events associated with paediatric needle acupuncture, a majority of them were mild in severity and that any serious problems might have been caused by substandard practice.

Is it effective?

A double blind study, published in Pediatrics, in 2004, compared active acupuncture with sham acupuncture for the treatment of persistent allergic rhinitis among children.

50

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

The study showed that active acupuncture was more effective than sham acupuncture in decreasing the symptom scores for persistent allergic rhinitis and increasing the symptomfree days, and no serious adverse effect was identified.

Australians and Acupuncture A Bio Med Central (BMC) Public Health report published in 2008, suggests of the Australians who used acupuncture, a majority did so to treat a specific condition, the most common being problems relating to back and shoulder pain.

As of October this year, Holland claims there were, “3509 Chinese medicine practitioners registered with the CMBA, 1,568 practising solely as acupuncturists and 1,941 combining the practice of acupuncture and Chinese herbalism.”

The growing number of practitioners suggests a growing number of people seeking treatments. Acupuncture is transitioning from ‘alternative’ to ‘complementary,’ to be administered alongside ‘conventional’ medical treatment.

For Linda, a Queensland mother of four, it was her GP who recommended acupuncture as treatment for knee pain. She says, “I hadn’t www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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51

Only Natural

In 2014 Kids on the Coast will: be celebrating ten years

be launching a new look website continue to interact with our readers through our social media networks launch new, exciting competitions regularly And best of all, we will continue to bring you quality information, articles, news, reviews

All the things that hav e made us YOUR fa parentin vourite g reso for the p urce ast 10 years !

Wishing you the best festive season, Love the KOTC Team xo

If you would like to be included in Kids on the Coast Magazine during 2014, please email Renee advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au or phone 1300 430 320

52

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

thought of having acupuncture. At my GP’s suggestion, I had weekly treatments for a few weeks.”

Does she believe that acupuncture healed her knee? She says, “It’s hard to know whether it was a direct result of acupuncture, or whether it would have improved over that timeframe, but it certainly didn’t hurt.”

Queensland mum of two, Michelle, is another whose GP recommended acupuncture, as treatment for a head flu. Michelle felt under pressure juggling family and assignments, with looming deadlines and persistent flu symptoms. She says, “I went to my GP because I just couldn’t concentrate and she suggested I have acupuncture to help clear my head and have to say I felt much more clear-headed afterwards.”

It seems Australians are becoming more open to ‘alternative’ or natural therapies, with a holistic approach to health. Where conventional medical practice treats presenting disease, with the aim of curing the ailment, or at least suppressing the physical symptoms; acupuncture is of the philosophy that if our life force flows through the meridian pathways of our body freely, our bodies will be in a state of harmonious health.

If you do consider acupuncture treatment for your family, the best way to find a fully qualified practitioner is via the search facility on the AACMA website: http://www.acupuncture.org.au/.

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

MUMMY moment

H " appiness is a habit cultivate it."

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Be kind whenever possible ...

It is always possible.

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Sea-Band Travel Often holidays with our kids can be spoilt by the onset of nausea and vomiting, ruining what would be otherwise a perfect travel experience. If you or your family suffer from motion sickness as a passenger during long winding car journeys or can’t stomach the up and down motion on a cruise and want to prevent seasickness, Sea-Band can help ensure you enjoy the experience. Sea-Band acupressure bands provide an easy and natural way to combat motion sickness without taking drugs.

Scientific studies have shown that one of the most effective drug-free treatments is based upon the ancient Chinese principle of acupressure - effectively acupuncture without needles. Sea-Bands harness the natural effect of acupressure by applying continuous pressure on the P6 (or Nei-Kuan) point on each wrist using a plastic stud.

Sea-bands are available at most leading Pharmacies and are priced at $17.95 RRP. www.sea-bands.com.au HOP ON THE KOTC WEBSITE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A SEABAND PACK WORTH $117.95

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS?

For all of our good intentions, University of Scranton research suggests that just 8% of people achieve their New Year’s goals. Apparently the reason we fail is because we don’t follow these rules (give it a try and let us know if it works out for you!

1. Keep it simple – maybe consider small attainable goals, rather than one overwhelming goal.

2. Make it tangible – be specific and have a plan 3. Make it obvious – experts recommend charting your goals (or create a vision board) 4. Keep believing you can do it – if you hit a bump in the road, don’t give up. Remember why you set the goal and refocus yourself.

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“I'm selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best.”

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Our N ew Y e ar Celebr ation of You !

THE WOLF OF WALL STREET (in cinemas from January 23) Revered filmmaker Martin Scorsese directs the true story of New York stockbroker Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio). From the American dream to corporate greed, Belfort goes from penny stocks and righteousness to IPOs and a life of corruption in the late 80s. Excess success and affluence in his early twenties as founder of the brokerage firm Stratton Oakmont warranted Belfort the title – “The Wolf of Wall Street.” Temptations were for the taking and the threat of authority was irrelevant. For Jordan and his wolf pack, modesty was quickly deemed overrated and more was never enough.

Citizen science: there’s an app for that!

Do you have a smart phone? If so, you’re only a few taps away from contributing to international environmental research, thanks to a new app.

Coastal Walkabout is an easy-to-use app designed to encourage people of all ages to get out into their local marine, estuarine and near shore environments and take note of the fauna living there. The app can be used to record sightings anywhere in the world. “If you spot a creature down at the beach, by the river or out on a boat, use the app to take a picture of it,” said Associate Professor Lars Bejder, of Murdoch University. “The app will automatically take note of the time and location before uploading that data to a website, where it can be freely accessed by anyone all over the world.”

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

53

Good Health

Gestational

Diabetes

D

iabetes is the world's fastest-growing chronic disease. It's the sixth-leading cause of death in Australia. Every day, 62 Queenslanders are diagnosed with the condition including two people with type 1 diabetes, and 60 people with type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes is a medical condition where the body fails to process blood sugar or glucose in a normal way. There are several types of diabetes including type 1, type 2, gestational, and prediabetes. Understanding the different kinds of diabetes can help you understand the symptoms and treatment available.

Gestational diabetes occurs in 3 to 8 percent of Australian women during pregnancy, and usually goes away once the baby is born.

With gestational diabetes, women continue to produce insulin normally, but the hormones produced during pregnancy mean their bodies are temporarily less responsive to insulin. This means normal blood glucose levels cannot be maintained.

Of the women who develop gestational diabetes (GDM), about 17 per cent go on to develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years, and up to 50 per cent will develop type 2 diabetes within 30 years. Good management after pregnancy helps to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Who is at risk of gestational diabetes?

Every year in Australia at least 17,000 women develop GDM. Some women are at higher risk. Your risk increases as you get older, if you are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander or born overseas.

54

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

Women who are at an increased risk of gestational diabetes are women who; • are over the age of 30 years •

are overweight or obese

• are Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander • are from particular cultural groups, such as Chinese, Indian, Middle Eastern, Vietnamese or Polynesian • have had gestational diabetes in previous pregnancies What does gestational diabetes mean for me and my baby?

GDM is associated with an increased risk of complications in pregnancy and birth, as well as a greater likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

If you are diagnosed with GDM, your diabetes and pregnancy teams will monitor you and your baby throughout the pregnancy. You can still have a healthy baby but it is important to

manage your gestational diabetes to reduce your risk of developing complications during your pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes will not lead to your baby being born with diabetes Screening for GDM is part of your ante-natal care and usually occurs between 24 and 28 weeks into your pregnancy.

How is gestational diabetes managed?

• Monitoring Blood Glucose levels •

Following a healthy eating plan

•

Getting active

• If your blood glucose levels cannot be managed by diet and exercise alone your doctor may suggest the use of insulin injections.

For more information on gestational diabetes, visit Diabetes Queensland's gestational diabetes website www.you2.org.au

Gestational diabetes peer support Have you been diagnosed with gestational diabetes? Would you like to talk to someone who has been in your shoes?

You2Connect is a confidential telephone support program that puts you in touch with other women who have experienced gestational diabetes.

Support is available from a trained

volunteer to help you understand gestational diabetes and guide you through the rest of your pregnancy. Sharing your experience can provide you with support, reassurance and confidence.

If you would like to speak to someone who understands or would like more information please email you2@diabetesqld.org.au. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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55

Tough Topic

Believe it or not...

In a changing world, there HAve been some major shifts in how we talk to our kids about religion.

By Justine Stewart

“T

hese are not the droids you're looking for.” That phrase is meaningless if you're not familiar with the world of Luke Skywalker, Yoda, Jedi Knights, and The Force, but for devotees of Star Wars films, it's almost an article of faith. It might seem ludicrous compared to spiritual traditions dating back thousands of years, but on the most recent Australian census, over 65,000 people marked their religion as Jedi. Okay, so it's probably a joke, and isn't really counted as a valid response by the Australian Bureau of Statistics – but there are now more Australians calling themselves Jedi than there are Seventh Day Adventists (not to mention the Rationalists, Scientologists, Pantheists, and New Ageists, with around 1500 – 2500 adherents apiece).

It just goes to show how much things have changed. A hundred years ago, Australians were overwhelmingly (96%) Christian. Even thirty years

56

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

ago, ceremonies such as baptisms/christenings, Sunday School, First Communion, Easter, Christmas, church weddings and funerals, as well as things like grace before meals, bedtime prayers, and parenting guided by church teachings (most contentiously, on sexuality), were considered “the norm” in Australia.

Religion in Australia But our attitudes to religion have been influenced by wars, immigration, divorce laws, the Pill, church sex abuse scandals, television and the Internet, etc. Now, the percentage of Christians in Australia has dropped to 61%.

Other religions are growing, but they still make up only a tiny fraction of the population. For example, 1.3% of Australians are Hindus, 2.5% are Buddhists, 0.5% are Jewish, and contrary to what some right-wing radio hosts would have

RELIGION IN AUSTRALIA

61%

CHRISTIANITY

0.5%

JEWISH

1.3%

HINDUS

2.2%

MUSLIMS

2.5%

BUDDHISTS

22%

NO RELIGION

their listeners believe, a whopping (ie, not) 2.2% are Muslims. But more significantly, the number of people reporting No Religion on the Australian census has almost doubled over the last decade, to around 22%. Actually, it's 28% (almost one in three) for those aged under 35. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

One view Corrie Macdonald is one mum who's found that navigating the world of beliefs, both her family's and others', can be tricky. While not a believer herself, she believes it's important to expose her kids to a wide variety of ideas, including Christianity, to allow them to make their own choices: “Christianity is the foundation of a lot of things in our culture, whether it's stories, or words, or celebrations – my partner, for example, didn't really understand the story behind Easter, even though he'd celebrated it, because he was brought up in a family that didn't really do anything religious,” she explains.

Corrie says churches offer a sense of community “in a way that very few other institutions do”, and even briefly considered going through the motions of prayers and hymns just so she could be part of her local church network. (In the end, she couldn't quite bring herself to.) She says she feels society is missing out on something that's “slipped away without us realising”.

Even though her kids know their parents don't believe in God, she wants them to understand the importance of respecting people with different beliefs and attitudes.

“There are people I respect - smart people who do believe. The kids have also read stories that involve gods and goddesses from different cultures, and I think it's important for them to see the different ways that people try and understand what it is to be virtuous, and what it means to live a good life.”

Society and religion And then there's the dark side of religion, or at least some of its adherents. While church attendance and Christian influence had been declining for many years, 2001 was the year in which the world was shocked by terrorist attacks, supposedly motivated by Islamic beliefs - although geo-politics might be a more accurate description, and the majority of Muslims immediately decried the acts as violent extremism.

September 11 helped spark a new movement, based on the idea that religion itself is the root of all the world's problems. Led by Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris and the late Christopher Hitchens, these “New Atheists” have rapidly grown in number and influence worldwide.

(In a somewhat predictable twist, the tenets www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

of “New Atheism” are now proving extremely useful to right-wing racist groups in the UK, who incorporate them into their anti-Islam propaganda.)

It's no wonder that all this change has created some fairly strong feelings, especially among those at the opposite ends of the spectrum.

Weirdly enough, fundamentalist Christians and atheists both apparently read The Bible the same way – as though it were intended to be a literal, inerrant, history and scientific textbook, despite most serious scholars, many theologians and the two largest mainstream Christian traditions saying that it's meant to be considered in a far broader context. Debates raging online would have us believe that science and religion are natural enemies, but must society also choose between, say, maths and art?

Conservative Christians, who tend toward a strictly literal interpretation of the Bible, feel especially anxious about changes to what they regard as traditional Australian and family values, and have a strong desire to evangelise or convert others to Christianity. Meanwhile, staunch New Atheists take the view that religion is all “myths and fairy tales” and is only ever a destructive influence on society. They believe that teaching a child to follow a religion is akin to child abuse, and, in an interesting parallel, have Clinical a strong desire to “convert” others to atheism.

And many people at both ends of this spectrum feel that, since only their world-view is “correct”, all Australian children should be brought up accordingly. Which makes for some interesting discussions around how government-funded schools should handle religious education! continued on next page...

There's some research to suggest that religion and spirituality can play an important role in children's psychological well-being, and can help build resilience. psychologist Judith Piccone

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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Tough Topic

Christianity is the foundation of a lot of things in our culture, whether it's stories, or words, or celebrations.

Corrie Macdonald

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

In school Over the last decade, the federal government has helped fund chaplaincy services in state schools (which opponents argue is just a cheap way of providing “counselling” in schools, by untrained personnel). Partially as a result of this, volunteer religious instruction in state schools now often leans more towards a particular version of Christianity, generally speaking, through conservative, evangelical/ Pentecostal churches such as Scripture Union in Queensland.

Many parents are concerned that religious instruction volunteers are not trained teachers and are using unapproved materials, especially since young children can't necessarily tell the difference between their teacher giving them lessons, and another adult standing at the front of the classroom presenting beliefs as “facts”.

Dr Cathy Byrne is a religion in education policy expert who's undertaken extensive research into this issue. She points out that there are ways of educating children about religion that don't involve telling them that one view or another is “right” or “wrong”.

“There are critical education frameworks which provide children with models for enquiry. This doesn't impose a belief; it gives [children] the tools and the access to information, and the forums, like class debates or research or activities, where they go out and explore information and ideas and abstract concepts,” she explains.

Dr Byrne's research shows that a large majority – almost 70% - of parents and teachers, regardless

of their own beliefs, would prefer a broad-based “comparative religious studies” education model.

“The international research on that type of model has shown positive outcomes in terms of children's ability to think critically, to be better able to conduct research in other areas, and there's a reduction in prejudice, and children are more resilient, because they're more able to deal with ambiguity, not just about ideas but about how to approach difficult concepts, not just in religion but in other areas,” Dr Byrne says. “So there are a lot of benefits across the education spectrum”.

EDUCATION PREFERENCES IN STATE SCHOOLS

35% OPT-IN/OPT-OUT RELIGION

65% BROAD COMPARATIVE RELIGION

Although not conducted under academically rigorous standards, our own Kids on the Coast survey found similar results. Of 133 respondents, 65% said they favoured a broad comparative religion plus ethics model of education in state schools, in preference to either nothing, or an opt-in or opt-out system taught by volunteers.

Support for the “general religious education” or GRE model was continued on next page... www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Tough Topic

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

SUPPORT BY PARENT FOR GENERAL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION IN STATE SCHOOLS

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At home Meanwhile, in the home, how should you talk to your kids about religion? Especially in difficult times, like when you’re dealing with a death in the family, or if you have different beliefs to other friends or relatives?

According to Queensland clinical psychologist Judith Piccone, whether or not parents feel inclined to want to indoctrinate or impose a particular point of view on their children with regard to religion may relate to their general parenting style.

She says as parents, our job is to give kids tools to become fully-functioning adults. Things like empathy, caring for others, intervening if someone else is being hurt – all come under the banner of pro-social behaviour. As she explains: “Most of those things fit in nicely with messages of religious empathy for others. If people want to add in `that's how you have to do it, and this is the only way' that's when we end up with problems.”

She says like most things, religious beliefs can be positive or negative for children, depending on how parents approach it. “There's some research to suggest that religion and spirituality can play an important role in children's psychological well-being, and can help build resilience. As caregivers, you're providing safety and security and helping organise children's feelings. That's one of the key roles in helping children feel secure and grow up with all the skills they need to work well in the world.

Sometimes a way of organising feelings and making sense of stuff can be about believing in something bigger than yourself.”

But Ms Piccone says parents must be aware that they could be meeting their own needs, rather than those of the child. She cautions that some parents' use of harsh discipline or abusive practices that are done “in the name of” a religion, although not the usual approach of that faith, can have negative mental health outcomes.

Mark Galli, author of Christianity Today, echoes this when he says some parents are attracted to religions, or denominations within religions, that accent discipline and obedience because it gives them a sense of control, and as a result can be too hard on their children.

Additionally, if parents argue with each other, or with the child, about religion, the overall effect on them can be negative.

Ms Piccone says that religion can provide a sound basis for parenting, but isn't essential: “The underlying principles are structure, empathy, meeting the child's needs, good morals and ethics ...you're working towards creating a lovely fully functioning person in society.” She says that for non-religious families, providing the same benefits without religion requires very mindful parenting: “But there are many pathways.”

Corrie Macdonald has a similar outlook: “That's what a lot of the interfaith stuff is about – we can find enough points of connection and commonality. We don't have to agree on every single point.”

ATHEISTS

apparently independent of parents' personal beliefs: it won majority support from atheists (67%), Anglicans (70%), non-Christian religious respondents (75%), and Catholics (83% although the question referred to state schools) Dr Byrne is one of many who believe Australia's public education system should be secular.

“Secularism is a style of governing that separates the church from the state,” she says. “Secular education about religion means professional teaching about religion, not done by priests or volunteers, but done in an educational setting,” she adds.

Dr Byrne clarifies that a secular system of religious education is not the same as an atheist system: “It [atheism] can be as extreme as any other kind of belief system. A secular religious education system is about separating indoctrination of any idea, but particularly any extreme idea, from the enquiry-based model”.

Suggestions for Talking to Kids About Religion (adapted from a list by Wendy Thomas Russell – an atheist, but these apply equally to all) • Expose your kids to many religions Religious literacy is a gift – give it.

• Don't set up religion and science as opposing forces • Knowing someone's label doesn't tell you what's in their heart Most of the people your kids will meet during their lifetimes will have something wonderful to offer the world.

• Let kids discuss religion with family members with different views provided no-one says things that are harmful or hateful.

• Don't be snarky, arrogant or mean.

Teach your kids how to discuss differing beliefs (or non-beliefs) with others, without yelling, name-calling, generalising, or degradation.

• Give your child the freedom to make up

their own mind.

If it’s okay for people to hold different beliefs, it goes without saying your children are also allowed to decide for themselves – and change their mind once they're old enough to grasp the issues.

• Admit when you're confused.

Let kids know that you can talk openly and respectfully about tough subjects — including religion.

• Respect beliefs without tolerating intolerance Teaching your kids to respect people's beliefs is important. But that doesn’t mean they must respect intolerance, or unethical or hateful words and actions simply because they come under the heading of religious (or atheist) righteousness.

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

61

PARENTville

S

By Aleney de Winter

Winging it...

ometimes it feels like my children are raising me with bright flashes of preschool wisdom and fearlessness.

And you know, they aren’t doing too bad a job, as I have just had acutely demonstrated.

You see, I’m afraid of flying. Actually I’m not so much afraid of flying as I am of crashing, but let’s not split hairs, either way it proves a little awkward given I spend quite a bit of time on airplanes. In the actual sky.

You’d think that with several hundred flights under my belt I’d be able to fly one by myself by now. But no, my phobia hasn’t abated.

The in-flight safety demonstration never helps. The seat belt? Farcical! My two-year old daughter has a better restraint in her stroller and we’re lucky if that goes faster than 2kph, let alone 900! And the life jacket with the light and whistle, what’s that for… entertaining the kids with a song and dance routine on the way down?

If you should ever find yourself sitting next to me on a flight can I ask a favour? Please don’t start on all that “statistically speaking” mumbo jumbo because I’ll raise your rational

argument with an irrational spleenful of venting! I get the statistics. I know that the likelihood of me dying in a plane crash is about as likely as Brad Pitt popping by with his brood for a play date this afternoon.

With the assistance of a litre or two of chamomile tea and focusing all my energy on maintaining a faux-calm face for my kids, I get there. I may be a card-carrying flight phobic but I haven’t allowed my anxiety to keep me from flitting around the world on big planes.

And here comes the but! Just writing about small ones is enough for me to call for smelling salts. And I have said no when confronted with the reality of having to hit the sky in one. Show me a Cessna and I’ll show you a hysterical loon who pretty much takes the “joy” out of a joy flight for everyone.

But we’re in the Whitsundays and there really is no better way to see the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef than with a bird’s eye perspective and my five-year old son is so excited at the prospect I can’t say no. Gulp!

And it’s not any old little plane… this one has an identity crisis and thinks it’s a boat!

My family peel me off the tarmac and

forcibly stuff me into the aircraft. We’re then briefed and given headsets to hear our captain above the noise of the teensy tiny plane. Soon enough we’re in the air and I’m turning a fetching shade of blue from holding my breath. Until my five-year old son gently takes my hand, smiles reassuring me and signals that I should look down. I exhale as I take in the view of the water below us peppered with islands to the left and right.

It’s amazing. And in that moment I realise that I have no fear. In fact, with the fresh air flowing through the small plane and my little wingman beaming at me and signing that he loves me in encouragement, I’m positively euphoric.

Literally hundreds of flights, pages of safety statistics and even an end-your-fear class couldn’t put a dent in my flying phobia but a very small boy who simply wanted to share something beautiful with his mama has obliterated it in one moment.

Back on terra firma I can’t believe that I nearly talked myself out of this once-in-alifetime experience and thank my lucky stars I gave in to the pleas of my fearless fly baby!

My family peel me off the tarmac and forcibly stuff me into the aircraft.

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

63

Let's Celebrate

r of Autho se.com , B i m u

By Mi ejustbeca t lebra ww.ce

w

O

nce a month surprise (and shock!) your children with a random, crazy, yet meaningful meal time. Why not try an imaginative meal together, designed for families (young at heart parents and kids between the ages of 5 - 12 years) to celebrate anything and everything…just because, the family dinner table becomes the centre of laughter, conversations and silliness! There’s no need to spend money on entertainment and fun, your family will create it, love it and remember it – forever. In this busy, expensive, chaotic world we live in, now is the time to gather the family around the dinner table, create amazing memories and celebrate…just because! Here is an idea for your family to try:

plates or bowls, red candles, red ribbons tying cutlery together, a bunch of red straws in a glass, red vases etc, etc. You will be surprised how many red things you have in your home that you could use as funky decorations on your table.

What you will need ∙ A piece of cardboard or paper with the word RED printed on it ∙ One piece of paper and pen for the family to share

The Food This is when your children are gob-smacked!

Offer your children red soft drink, strawberry milk, red cordial or plain water with red ice cubes (make ice cubes ahead of time, adding a drop of red food colouring into each ice cube tray).

Serve red spaghetti bolognaise (again, put a few drops of red food colouring into the pot of boiling water when cooking the spaghetti) and be prepared for squeals of delight! For dessert, dish up red jelly and ice-cream with red coated chocolates smashed through it! (Smashing the red chocolate is the fun part!) Simply place the red chocolates in a plastic zip-lock bag, grab a rolling pin and bash away! When the chocolates have broken into pieces, mix them through the ice-cream. Instant red speckled ice-cream!

As a final thrill for your children, display in the centre of the table a cake (doesn’t matter if it is homemade or store bought) that is covered in red lollies. To have a cake decorated entirely in red lollies is breathtaking for a child, but to make it fun, have everyone guess how many red sweets are on the cake! (Take note: as you are decorating the cake, you need to keep count of how many lollies you put on so you know the final number). It is phenomenal how many little red treats can fit on a cake and your children will be ecstatic when they hear the answer. The person who guesses closest to the answer gets the first slice!

The Table Your red-themed table will scream to your family – ‘Let’s have some fun!’ Let everything be red and display it! Red placemats, red napkins, red

The Conversation To keep your children’s brains busy throughout dinner, have on display the piece of cardboard with the word RED written on it. While they are

Red! The Red Dinner has the WOW factor! It is probably one of the most visually stimulating dinners your kids will remember and not because it is glamorous and extravagant, but because everything from the food to the drinks to the table is RED! As they sit down amongst a haze of red, explain to your children that dinner will not be served unless they adhere to the appropriate dress code – something red! Watch them scoot off and find that all important piece of red clothing! Once everyone is back at the table and blending in with the decor, ask your kids, “Are you REDDY for Dinner?” They will be more than ready and willing!

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

eating, anyone can randomly say words that start with either R, E or D e.g. Roof, Egg, Doctor etc. At the end of the dinner, count how many words altogether were written down. You will all be amazed! Also, talk about foods that are red e.g. apples, cherries, frankfurts, chillis, lobster, capsicum etc and food that could easily turn red with food colouring e.g. cake, biscuits, pancakes, rice, mashed potato etc. Encourage your kids to be imaginative little chefs and together brainstorm a whole range of colourful meals!

This dinner is an explosion of RED! It is bright, it is bold and it is brilliantly shocking! It is a party for the eyes as everything on the table will have you seeing red... in a good way! The Red dinner is all about eating, drinking, wearing and thinking the colour red... Just Because!

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

65

Holidays

HAPPY HOLIDAYS with Nana, Papa and Mum and Dad

By Wendy Buckley, www.travelwithkidz.com.au

F

amilies are now living and working all over the world, more so than ever before. Just as you might have packed up the kids and caught a train to Sydney twenty years ago, now you can jump on a plane to visit Mum and Dad on the other side of the world. (Although the latter is far more exciting, and will probably include personal TVs on the back of your seat with hundreds of movies and songs to keep them amused.)

Baby boomers are expected to live longer due to medical advances and healthier lifestyles, and good financial planning is allowing the grandparents of today more time and flexibility to travel with their children and grandchildren.

When planning a family holiday spanning three generations, you need advice based on experience and firsthand knowledge. Among the many things to consider when looking at a multi-generational holiday, families should ask themselves whether they want the holiday to be mainly: Cultural: eg dancing with the Maasai in

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

Tanzania, or exploring a sacred cave in Fiji Historical: eg staying in a 100-year-old Tuscan Villa and walking the cobblestone streets of Sienna Environmental: eg staying in Jean Michel Cousteau’s Fiji Resort where marine biologists are available to guide you Active: eg anything from Club Med Circus School at Club Med Bintan Island to riding a cable car to the peak of Table Mountain in Capetown Relaxing: eg taking time out on a sandy beach where a chef prepares family dinners in your private villa You should also discuss whether you prefer self-catering or all meals included; what kind of climate everyone likes (tropical/beach or cool/ mountainous?); and whether to holiday closer to one family group or the other, or meet in the middle.

Another important variable to consider is whether you want boutique or resort accommodation. Many families love all the frills

of big resorts like the Sheraton Port Douglas Mirage Resort, which offers a golf course, tennis lessons, massages, lagoon pools and a kids’ program during school holidays, along with a choice of one, two, or three bedroom villas which are perfect for families. Others like intimate, personal, boutique hotels, such as the luxurious Nam Hoi located in Hoi An, Vietnam, with its butler service and limousines to buzz you around your shopping trips.

Some families find it easier and less stressful to book and pay for all transfers, accommodation, meals, and tours in advance.

For example, a Club Med holiday allows multigenerational groups all-inclusive deals and a huge range of prepaid activities, allowing each family member to be as active or relaxed as they want to be, without having to arrange transport and argue over where to eat, or who’s paying!

Organising safe, reliable childcare that provides adults with a break to enjoy time together can also help to ensure a successful family holiday catering for all the generations. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Holidays

While textbooks and televisions can teach history and geography, nothing beats sharing the real thing with your family. Lifetime memories are made on a family holiday, so plan carefully to get the most out of your multi-generational travel experiences.

More ideas for terrific holidays with three-generation appeal.

Carnival Cruise Line

Maria Island, Tasmania

Your package is paid for up front and includes transport, accommodation, meals, entertainment, and professional childcare. You’ll visit amazing destinations and only have to unpack once!

The whole family can splish and splash at Carnival WaterWorks, do lunch on the Lido Deck, catch a movie, and enjoy mini golf, swimming, shore excursions and shopping.

Grown-ups can be pampered at Spa Carnival, check out a stage show, chill at the adults’ Serenity Retreat, hit the casino, dine in the steakhouse, get physical in the fitness centre and more. And the kids can mix, mingle, and have fun with Carnival’s children’s programs (awarded Porthole Cruise Magazine’s 2008 “Readers’ Choice Award”).

On offer are Camp Carnival (ages 2-11), Circle “C” (ages 12-14), and Club O2 (ages 15-17).

Why not try the great outdoors and keep even teenagers busy? The Maria Island Walk is a unique four-day experience on beautiful Maria Island, just off the coast of Hobart.

The spectacular, abundant wildlife includes Tasmanian kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and echidnas. Spot unique birdlife such as the endangered forty-spotted pardalote, Cape Barren Goose (the world’s second rarest breed), eagles and numerous sea bird species. The crystal clear waters include protected marine reserves teeming with fish, dolphins, seals and migrating whales. The days are spent doing not-too-strenuous walking with highly qualified enthusiastic guides, and top quality food and wine and accommodation are all included (cabins for two nights and the homestead for one night). Perfect for family groups of up to eight people.

Specialising in family holidays for over 18 years, Wendy Buckley is Managing Director of Travel With Kidz www.travelwithkidz.com.au

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

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Conversation

CLIMBING HIGH WITH ANDY GRIFFITHS Interview by Jackie Goldston

I

am not sure who was more excited about the opportunity to interview Andy Griffiths – my son or me? As one of Australia’s most popular children’s authors, he has written more than 20 books, won more than 50 children’s choice awards, been adapted as a television cartoon series and sold more than 5 million copies worldwide. Andy is best known as the author of the much-loved Just! series and The Day My Bum Went Psycho – although in our household he is celebrated for his Treehouse series.

In 2011 Andy and Terry Denton started a new series, The 13-Storey Treehouse, which won the Book of the Year for Older Children Award at the Australian Book Industry Awards in 2012.

Andy and Terry have just released the third book in this series, the 39-Story Treehouse. Andy is passionate about inspiring a love of books and reading, and this passion drives his work as an ambassador with The Indigenous Literacy Foundation where he regularly participates in field trips to remote areas of New South Wales, the Northern Territory and Western Australia to run writing workshops with Indigenous children and to help facilitate the Foundation’s work.

Andy relishes his family, sharing, “My wife and editor and co-writer’s name is Jill. We have two daughters: Sarah (12) and Jasmine (20). We did have a cat named Silky but she’s left home now and we had some sea monkeys but I left the jar in the sun and they all boiled to death, something that Jasmine has never let me forget.”

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

Having published over 20 books, you would expect that it may be harder to come up with new characters and topics. “Not at all, in fact I have the opposite problem,” Andy explained, “Each new book suggests sequels and other interesting directions to follow. I have a dozen possible titles that I could write at any one time.

I listen closely to my audience, Jill, Terry and my own instincts as to which one to actually write.”

So what is his favourite from his published titles? “It’s got to be the Treehouse series, I think.

This series combines all the different types of books and different styles of humour that Terry and I have experimented with over the years into one satisfying ever-expanding narrative.” For those who haven’t read the Treehouse series, Andy has been capturing a version of himself throughout the narrative. How have his kids responded to seeing him in this “light”? “They already had a healthy curiosity about how Terry and I got along in real life thanks to all his work in the margins of the JUST series. I realised there was an opportunity to explore the truth of that relationship in a completely made-up and entertaining way.”

It is Andy’s humour that engages adults and children alike and has played a huge role in his success as an author. But what else motivates him? “One of my great passions in life besides books and humour is music—the louder and crazier and more out-there the better! One of the most exciting amazing things I ever experienced was The Birthday Party at the Astor Theatre in

Quick questions: What does a typical day look like for you?

“I get up early and read for an hour, run or swim or lift weights for an hour, have breakfast, read the newspaper and am at the desk by 9am. I write until about 3pm and then spend an hour or two answering mail and emails. In the evening Jill and I watch and analyse sitcoms, classic movies and documentaries. Then I write down all the stuff that happened that day in my diary and go to sleep!

What advice has had the biggest impact on you?

“The punk anthem ‘Do it!’ by Henry Rollins.

‘Don’t think about it ... do it ... do it! Don’t talk about it ... do it ... do it!’ When I was dithering about whether to trade in my full time well paid job as a secondary teacher for the uncertain risk of trying to become a professional writer it was this song that helped me to take the plunge. “ What’s the motto you live by regarding your family and being a parent?

“To be a good listener.”

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

71

Conversation It is Andy’s humour that engages adults and children alike and has played a huge role in his success as an author.

Melbourne in 1982. Such a powerful concert, it’s inspired me ever since!” And what books have helped inspire him as an author? “Alice in Wonderland, Dr Seuss, Enid Blyton, Pinnochio, The Brothers Grimm, MAD magazine, Winnie the Pooh, The Wizard of Oz, The Magic Pudding ... all the classics!”

Having children has made Andy a more efficient writer. As well as making him prioritise family time to ensure some balance in his day. “The time available for writing becomes more limited so you have to make the most of whatever you can get. It also provides a good reason to get writing even when you don’t feel like it. Knowing that others are dependent on

72

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

you is a great motivator! I reserve the hours between 9am and 3pm five days a week for writing and the rest of the time (when I’m not reading or exercising) is family time.”

Being very family focused, what life message does Andy most want his children to learn? “To spend time finding what thing or things inspire them the most and to spend their lives doing those things, regardless of whether they think they can make money out of them. When you spend time doing the things you love they don’t really feel like work ... they’re more like play. And you end up spending so much time playing that you gain expertise and, almost accidentally, a career.”

Questions from Declan (aged 7): Will there be a 52 Storey Treehouse?

Yes, Terry and Jill and I are already working on it! It will be published September 2014.

How did you come up with the character, Trunkinator?

“A reader sent me a picture that had an elephant in a boxing ring. I thought it was such an unusual silly image that it might be great to have one in the 39-Storey Treehouse. And it is!”

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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d a studio apartment on the Goldy. for ideas and the bank balance is www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

spoiling from grandparents can’t hurt.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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Books | APPS | Movies

Reviews BOOKS Tom Gates: Extra Special Treats,

by L. Pichon, Scholastic Australia, RRP $12.99 “It's really cold outside and we're all hoping it's going to snow. Yeah!

Derek and I could make a snow Rooster and have a snowball fight (look out, Delia!). Granny Mavis has started to knit me a new winter jumper, but by the looks of things I'm not sure it's going to fit...” For ages 6 – 10.

There, There,

by Sam McBrathney, Koala Books, RRP $14.99 A beautiful soft cover picture book with a very sweet story from the author of Guess How Much I Love You. “There, there, Hansie Bear. You’ll be better soon.” That’s what Hansie’s dad says whenever he hurts himself.

And he always has the perfect remedy. So when Dad gets a thorn in his foot, little Hansie knows just what to do… For ages 0 – 5.

Kid’s App Big Nate: Comix By U! (USD$2.99, iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch)

MOVIES: FOR kids Free Birds In Cinemas January 9 Rated: G Two turkeys from opposite sides of the tracks must put aside their differences and team up to travel back in time to change the course of history - and get turkey off the holiday menu for good.

Featuring the voices of Owen Wilson and Woody Harrelson, Free Birds is a hilarious movie for all of the family.

MOVIES: FOR THE FAMILY Saving Mr. Banks In Cinemas January 9 Rated: TBA Emma Thompson and Tom Hanks star in Disney’s “Saving Mr. Banks,” inspired by the untold backstory of how “Mary Poppins” made it to the screen. When Walt Disney’s daughters begged him to make a movie of their favourite book, he made them a promise—one that he didn’t realize would take 20 years to keep. In his quest to obtain the rights, Walt comes up against a curmudgeonly, uncompromising writer who has absolutely no intention of letting her beloved magical nanny get mauled by the Hollywood machine.

Kid’s WEBSITE

Create your own comix with art from BIG NATE! Big Nate, aka 6th grader Nate Wright, is a self-described genius, hilarious “king of detention” and cartoonist extraordinaire.

Now just like Nate, your child can create their own comix, using Lincoln Peirce’s art from the bestselling Big Nate book series. Ages 4+

Goosebumps: Fleecamp Jelly Jam http://www.scholastic.com.au/kids/ Free online games For families that prefer their kids to play games on a computer, Scholastic has a range of free online games that are advertising free and do not link to signups or requests for money. They are simple, yet fun. Typically for ages 4+

To see more visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au 74

Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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More for the kids than ever before!

Rides start at 10am.

Open 7 days from 9am to 5pm.

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Kids on the Coast – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014

www.aussieworld.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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