Kids on the Coast Magazine - Sunshine Coast - Issue 65 by Shore Media

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

ISSUE 65 November/December 2014 SUNSHINE COAST

h S i n t i e t e L

Rough play at school

Parenting a sensitive child

Laptops vs Learning

Christmas Gift Guide

65 Contents ISSUE

November/December 2014

Star Moon by Ligre Ward, Stork's Nest Designs

FROM THE EDITOR

THE SOCIAL GATHERING

WHAT’S NEWS

10 FEATURE: Cartwheels and rough play 16 CHECK THIS OUT: Christmas gift guide 18 THE ‘P’ FILES: Is my child too sensitive? 24 EDUCATION: Laptops in the classroom 34 C ALENDAR OF EVENTS: Find out what’s happening on the Coast during November & December 36 SPECIAL FEATURE: Get set for a swimtastic season

Kasper Lebrun, 2yrs

40 BABIES ON THE COAST: Starting solids 46 TEENS: Parenting Teens 52 GOOD HEALTH: Contraception for mums 55 PARENTVILLE: L for learner

Clothing - Bardot Junior Clothing stylist - Nicole Zaini

56 ONLY NATURAL: Sunscreen – the reality and the rumours 59 COAST LIFE 60 DESTINATION: The best of Bali with kids 62 CONVERSATION: Rick and Melissa Derksen of Ricky Dee’s Toys 66 REVIEWS

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: BELINDA HOPPER, DR KELLY BOWERS, JESSICA JANE SAMMUT, MAXINE ARTHUR, DANIELLE COLLEY, DR PETRA LADWIG, REBECCA PERRY, JASMIN FORSYTH, SIMONE BELL COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: VERVE PORTRAITS

Printed with vegetable/soy based inks on paper supplied using pulp sourced from sustainable forests and manufactured to environmentally accredited systems. WE ENCOURAGE RECYCLING. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

mother

WELCOME

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MEDIA PUBLISHED BY Mother Goose Media PTY LTD PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562

Wishing you

Merry Christmas

PHONE: 1300 430 320 FAX: 07 5442 7253 ABN: 86 473 357 391 WEB: www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

EDITORIAL / PRODUCTION

from KIDS ON THE COAST

PUBLISHER: Toni Eggleston EDITOR IN CHIEF/DIGITAL EDITOR: Carolyn Tate

When I picked up my first copy of Kids on the Coast over seven years ago, I never would have thought that I’d one day be writing to you, our readers, in my dream job as editor of the magazine. I was seven months pregnant with my first child, having just arrived back in Australia from ten years in the UK to settle on the Sunshine Coast with my new family. During any treasured ‘quiet time’ after my daughter was born, I’d pour over the latest issue with a coffee while sneaking a chocolate treat, enjoying the features, taking mental note of the parenting tips and working out our social plans from the events calendar! As a busy mum of two daughters, Briar and Naima, I have continued to be an avid reader of Kids on the Coast and have seen it grow over the years, just like I have as a mum. I am excited about my new journey and cannot wait to share this with my girls, my family and with all of you. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by such a talented and passionate team, and together we look forward to continuing to bring you a magazine filled with informative and entertaining stories, news, events details, product information and reviews. The countdown to the end of the year has started, which of course means Christmas is not far away. We’ve put together a fabulous Christmas gift guide full of ideas for all the family and review some fantastic movies to watch during the Christmas school holidays. This edition, we also explore the increasing restrictions on free play and activities available during school hours and the impact of this on our children. Keeping our focus at school, we also take a look at the pros and perils of learning with technology in the classroom. With the warmer weather comes swimming season and we share a timely reminder of the best swim safety and water quality tips to ensure a safe summer by and in the pool. We also share valuable tips for parenting your teens, identifying and parenting a sensitive child, some great recipes to try when introducing your baby to solids – and so much more. We would love to hear what you think. All of our articles are online and we welcome you to comment and discuss the topics on our website and Facebook page. We add topical news stories daily as well as blogs, new articles and reviews on products, movies, books and apps. Do you have something that you want to share? Please feel free to contact our team via Facebook.com/kidsonthecoast, our website or email. Don’t forget to sign up for our What’s On eNews that comes out weekly at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

PRINT EDITOR: Natasha Higgins ADMINISTRATION: Kellie Kruger admin@mothergoosemedia.com.au PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT: Alana Falk production@mothergoosemedia.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGN: Michelle Craik & Alana Falk PRINTING: Print Works, 07 3865 4433 All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications is published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Kids on the Coast is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Feedback/comments/suggestions? Send to: editorial@mothergoosemedia.com.au. We aim to reply to all correspondence but don’t guarantee to do so. Letters to the editor may be edited for length or clarity.

DISTRIBUTION Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across South East Queensland. Kids on the Coast (Sunshine Coast edition) is a free publication circulating over 20,000 copies from Caloundra to Noosa, including hinterland. Separate editions cover the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

The entire Kids on the Coast team would like to wish you and your family an amazing Christmas filled with happy times. Enjoy the read – we can’t wait to see you again in January!

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

Natasha Higgins, Editor

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

- in the city

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ADVERTISING Call 1300 430 320 or email your Sales Account Manager. SUNSHINE COAST Jo - advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au GOLD COAST Nicole - gc@kidsonthecoast.com.au BRISBANE Joanne - advertising@kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

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Wow! What a fantastic response we had to our recent competition to win the chance to appear on our cover. Loads of gorgeous babies, toddlers and teens to choose from. Here's a sneak peek of some of our entrants and winners. - in the city

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Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

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

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

GRANDPARENTS’ SUPPORT KEY TO HAVING MORE KIDS

Grandparents can significantly influence parents' decisions to have additional children and the wellbeing of grandchildren, according to a recent study completed at the University of Eastern Finland. In his PhD study, Dr Antti O. Tanskanen observed that grandparents' help with childcare and emotional support is linked to mothers' willingness to have a second or a third child. Furthermore, parents of small children who obtain support from paternal grandparents are also more likely to have additional children. The involvement of maternal grandparents in the lives of their grandchildren was associated to fewer emotional and behavioural problems. The study also discovered that children who have their grandmother as their primary minder between the age of nine months and three years are more likely to be overweight at the age of three than children whose primary minder is their own parent. This indicates that grandparents' tendencies to invest in their grandchildren can also result in unintentional, negative consequences.

NEW BOOK FOR KIDS OF FLY-IN FLY-OUT FAMILIES Sunshine Coast mum of three and now author Jo Emery has just published My Dad is a FIFO Dad, a children’s picture book that will touch many families who experience separation because of FIFO/DIDO work arrangements. My Dad is a FIFO Dad is a heartwarming and funny story about a child who feels the love of her Dad even when he is absent at work. This story will help to reassure children of all ages that despite distance, fathers can be present in heart, mind and spirit in many situations. With this book Jo aims to encourage an ‘I’m OK when Dad’s Away’ mindset and help children and families to build and maintain resilience, strength and unity to make FIFO/DIDO rosters fit seamlessly into their lifestyle. For more information or to purchase the book visit www.facebook.com/mydadisaFIFOdad. 8

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

YOU

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Vincent Van Gogh only ever sold one painting in his lifetime – and that was to his brother THE HOTTEST RECORDED TOWN IN THE WORLD IS MARBLE BAR, WESTERN AUSTRALIA.

FAIRY TALES BACK IN FASHION FOR THE QUEENSLAND BALLET

Queensland Ballet’s Artistic Director Li Cunxin continues to dream big in his third season for the Company, announcing a program of four magical ballets by celebrated international choreographers for the 2015 season. Queensland Ballet will perform Peter Schaufuss’ La Sylphide, Trey McIntyre’s Peter Pan, Greg Horsman’s The Sleeping Beauty and Ben Stevenson’s The Nutcracker in 2015. “I’m excited to bring these world-class ballets to audiences,” said Mr Li. “Not only will these works showcase the artistry of our talented dancers, but I know audiences will be swept away by these timeless stories. Fairy tales are definitely back in fashion.” The Company’s main stage season begins in March with an enduring Romantic classic, La Sylphide. Peter Pan will be on every family’s wish list for the school holidays in June. Based on JM Barrie’s famous tale, Peter Pan will transport audiences into a fantastical dream world of fairies, mermaids and pirates. This ballet is a brilliant mix of dance and theatre, with sword fights, giant puppets and characters who literally fly.

LITTLEBIGIDEA WINNER

Nambour Christian College student, Olivia Nancarrow, has won the national littleBIGidea competition for her idea of a solar-powered lawn mower. The talented 10-year-old competed against Year 5 and Year 6 students from across Australia in this prestigious competition. Olivia told judges she grew tired of listening to her father complain about mowing the lawn, so she designed a solar-powered lawn mower with auto assist technology. The mower has solar panels on top and other components hidden underneath, such as a battery to store the solar power, selfsharpening blades and 360 degree rotating wheels for cutting grass in all directions. The mower also has pre-programmed cutting patterns and bluetooth control that links to directional points in the ground. During the recent school holidays, Olivia travelled to Sydney with her father to present her invention to a judging panel at the Powerhouse Museum. She was one of four finalists in the Years 5 – 6 age group, and she confidently explained her idea to the judges. As the national winner in her age group, Olivia will now travel to the USA to visit the NASA Kennedy Space Centre and have some fun at Disneyworld. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

SATURDAY 22 NOVEMBER

SANTA’S cOMiNg TO TOwN DON’T MISS SANTA AS HE ARRIVES AT SUNSHINE PLAZA JOIN US FOR A LIVE MAGIC SHOW, THEN WELCOME SANTA AT THE RIVERWALK STAGE, FROM 9AM

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

FEATURE

play

CARTWHEELS AND ROUGH By Belinda Hopper

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FEATURE

IF WE TRIED TO PREVENT EVERY FORESEEABLE ACCIDENT AND POTENTIAL INJURY KIDS COULD SUSTAIN IN A TYPICAL DAY IN A TYPICAL SCHOOL PLAYGROUND, THERE IS PROBABLY NO WAY WE WOULD SUCCEED. BUT JUST SAY WE COULD: SHOULD WE? WHAT WOULD BE LOST AND WHAT WOULD BE GAINED? The trend in recent years towards tightening safety regulations in the school playground has sparked a rash of studies and coined the term ‘surplus safety’. While restrictions on kids’ free play are made with the best intentions, research findings suggest that we need to carefully weigh up the perceived benefits against the apparent losses to physical, emotional and social development.

The Sydney Playground Project study in 2011 found that adult fears are often disproportionate to actual risk: “While children can be injured when playing outdoors, most are minor cuts and bruises. On the other hand, restricting children's outdoor play activities may have unintended consequences, such as reducing children's opportunities for reasonable age-appropriate risk-taking.”

While increased restrictions to play in the school playground are, for the most part, motivated by a desire to keep children safe, some studies argue that isolated incidents and injuries are leading to broader and more inclusive restrictions, eliminating many ‘positive play’ activities with the reasoning that it’s better to be safe than sorry.

However, not all school playground injuries are minor. I personally sustained two significant injuries myself (way back) in the ‘80s. In year 4, I was running around playing chasey when I collided with my girlfriend. My teeth cut her forehead and the impact snapped my upper jaw. With no teacher in sight, I walked to the office with my hands under my chin, ready to catch any teeth that might fall out. An orthodontist snapped my jaw back in place, shoved my teeth back in my gums and plastered a splint across my teeth, which stayed on for two months. I still wear a mouthguard at night for jaw issues.

According to child psychologist and educator Collett Smart, “We seem to have stolen childhood in the name of sanitised, politically correct play. Children are increasingly kept indoors, away from ‘dangerous’ games, play equipment or any potentially knee-scuffing competitive activity… Our children’s lives tend to be micromanaged and over-planned, with very little allowance for freedom and autonomy.” Smart is concerned about the consequences of micromanagement of the playground. “Play for children is the greatest classroom yet it seems we have stripped [kids] of the very experiences that will teach them about healthy socialisation, enhance gross motor skills and develop a sense of self-worth.” Some experts are concerned that while parents and teachers seek to negate or minimise risks on behalf of children, the knock-on effect is that children miss out on learning to navigate and assess risks for themselves, while the stakes are still relatively low.

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

In year 9, under full teacher supervision, I was participating in high jump but cleared the bar and the mats and landed in a crumpled heap on the ground: followed by ambulance, hospital, x-rays, scans, MRI, prescription pain killers, wheelchair, weeks off school, crutches and three years of intensive physio. I still manage pain some 27 years later. Both incidents happened while I was in the care of teachers and one under direct teacher supervision, which points to the fact that we cannot remove all risk of injury. Accidents happen and they’re called accidents precisely because they are '“an undesirable or unfortunate happening that occurs unintentionally”.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

FEATURE

Restricting children's outdoor play activities may have unintended consequences, such as reducing children's opportunities for reasonable age-appropriate risk-taking.”

No parent wants a call saying his or her child is injured, as Sunshine Coast mum Maria can attest. Her 8-year-old son broke his arm by tripping over a school bag laying on the floor. He needed surgery to place pins in his arm. Maria says, “Schools do have a duty of care but parents can’t expect a guarantee that children won’t get hurt.” To minimise the risk of injury with general run-about play, the school her children attend decided to do away with school ties. “They were seen as a hazard when the children run around; someone could grab it which would obviously lead to an injury.” Because most accidents happen in general runabout play, it seems reasonable to restrict clothing rather than the activities that make up childhood. However, some injuries are a result of rough play. Sunshine Coast mum Joanne says, “My preppy was sitting at the top of a slide at school during break time with two boys behind him kicking him in the back. He couldn't move because the cord of his hat was caught in the slide.” He yelled for the boys to stop but they didn’t and his neck ended up “cut and bruised” by his hat cord. Joanne says the school dismissed the injury as simply “rough play”. However Joanne believes that the school’s policy of “not having teachers in the playground but supervisors who come in only to monitor the children during breaks” is the problem, as they don’t know the children or “have any knowledge of behaviours to watch”. It is therefore a school’s policies and procedures in dealing with children’s injuries that should be closely monitored and maintained. While the positive measure of more safety mats was instituted after the high jump accident I experienced, I am relieved that neither running around on grassy areas nor supervised high jump was banned as a result. Macquarie University study ‘Ten Ways to Restrict Children’s Freedom to Play: the problem of surplus safety’ argues that there is the possibility of taking safety precautions too far, saying that while risk management is an important “duty of care…management of risk in a climate of surplus safety negatively impacts on the rights of children and their growth, development and quality of life.” That’s exactly what concerned parents and citizens decried when Peregian Springs State School on the Sunshine Coast recently banned cartwheels in the playground. The news reverberated

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

around the country and principal Gwen Sands was pushed to justify her stance in the media due to community backlash. She pointed to the number of students and the layout of the playground, to past accidents and to the Queensland Education Department’s Policy and Procedures Manual, which requires trained personnel and gym mats be available when students are participating in activities requiring inverted positions, including cartwheels and handstands. So if the Principal was just complying with department regulations, then the protest was really against the ever-growing list of restrictions added to safety policies and procedures. However, it is possible that the increased policies and procedures are not only about child safety concerns, but also about teachers’ fears of being sued. The Macquarie University study suggests that teachers are aware they restrict children’s freedom to play, but are fearful of litigation should an injury occur while they have duty of care. One teacher disclosed a threat of legal action and others admitted to fears of their careers being jeopardised. Teachers also suggested they did not feel protected by policy or relevant authorities should a difficult situation arise, and therefore erred on the side of ‘surplus safety’ rather than their understanding of child development to determine their actions. A fascinating 2012 study by Kate Darian-Smith ‘Australian children's play in historical perspective: Continuity and change on the school playground’ found that “much has changed in children's play over half a century. For a start, there have been considerable alterations to school grounds, both in terms of landscaping and the facilities such as play equipment provided, as well as to school regulations determining who plays where and when.” The study also examined the shift towards extracurricular play and organised sporting activities, and noted that there is still the element of self-determined and voluntary play activities at school that involve a level of physical exertion and skill that is more extensive than that ‘taught’ in formal organised sports. The study found that play in the school playground is also more collaborative and less competitive than formal sports, allowing for, “differing levels of skill and for the involvement of complex social negotiations between children within and across age and gender groupings.”

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

FEATURE

So despite the increasing restrictions on play in the school playground, kids are still free to invent and adapt games and play with a broader range of kids, developing a broader range of skills, than they are in organised or formal play outside of school. Another finding in the Australia-wide study was that schools on the urban fringe of cities or in non-metropolitan areas generally had playgrounds where native bush offered a distinct area for play activities: “Children could climb trees, and use the nooks, crannies and natural materials to make Fairy Gardens and dells. They constructed cafés and shops, using leaves and twigs to make pretend food. They were allowed to dig channels and make rivers, and smash rocks. Inevitably, the opportunities for making their own objects from the materials in the natural environment were greater for children going to these schools.” This may be the case in some urban fringe or non-metropolitan schools, but each school is free to make their own policies or rules that discourage or support particular games, based on the school’s philosophies on learning, socialisation and physical activity. In some schools, teachers make assembly announcements reminding kids that sticks and stones and pine cones belong on the ground; that the children are not free to play with them. Perhaps the number of kids crowded into a play area influences this decision, but it is possible that previous incidents and injuries from kids wielding sticks as swords, or pine cones as grenades, also has something to do with the decision. The study spanned a progressive ‘alternative’ non-government school where emphasis was placed on children's free expression and creative interactions with the playground, through to a government school in an area of high socio-economic disadvantage where a program to build children's self-esteem and positive behaviours had very restrictive rules on play. Findings were that “most school communities had a philosophy and rules that fell between these two extremes. The most prevalent school rules forbade physical contact among children, especially pushing, shoving and hitting, and designated anti-bullying policies.”

Interestingly, the tightening of school playground rules to reduce bullying stands in contrast to the findings of a study published in 2013 by Auckland University of Technology and Otago University, where four New Zealand primary schools participated in the radical, countercultural experiment of removing playground rules altogether. The children were free to climb trees, ride skateboards and play games such as bullrush. Kids also played in a "loose parts pit" containing junk pieces such as wood, old tyres and an old fire hose. Swanson Primary School principal Bruce McLachlan deemed the experiment a success. "The kids were motivated, busy and engaged. In my experience, the time children get into trouble is when they are not busy, motivated and engaged. It's during that time they bully other kids, graffiti or wreck things around the school. When you look at our playground, it looks chaotic. From an adult's perspective, it looks like kids might get hurt, but they don't. We want kids to be safe and to look after them, but we end up wrapping them in cotton wool when in fact they should be able to fall over." Perhaps then, it is the case that when kids feel frustration building up at heavy-handed safety rules, it creates a culture of boredom which leads to negative, anti-social behaviours. This idea is supported by the findings of The Sydney Playground Project, which concluded, “When children perceive that play settings are not demanding enough, they may compensate by engaging in activities that yield challenges -- in the context of undesirable behaviour (eg. bullying or using play equipment in truly dangerous ways).” In our attempt to keep kids safe in the school playground, it should not come at the cost of their physical, social and emotional development. Yes, schools have a duty of care. And yes, there should be sensible safety policies and procedures in place, but we cannot ban childhood with all its inherent dangers and risks, and we shouldn’t try. As Collett Smart points out, the very challenges we seek to protect kids from provide opportunities for them to learn and grow. “Success comes through being allowed to fall and fail and then learn, with guidance, how to improve the next time. Not sitting cocooned quietly on a bench.”

Isolated incidents and injuries are leading to broader and more inclusive restrictions, eliminating many ‘positive play’ activities.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

This luxury pendant teams gold and silver to create fashion alchemy. The cool silver circle is transformed into a bespoke beauty with a hand stamped message. A golden bail (yellow or rose gold) anchors the pendant so it can be worn with any of Koolaman’s gold or sterling silver chains. www.koolaman.com.au

CHECK THIS OUT XMAS SPECIAL THE GIFT OF FAIRY GARDENING Nurture children's hearts and create precious memories. Choose the perfect gift from our range of designer fairy garden kits, fairy houses and accessories. The fairies in your garden will love our Gypsy Garden Camper! www.gardensparkle.com

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Emme Elephant is the most adorable ballerina in her pink tutu. She will pirouette into your life with grace and style, making her the most wonderful Christmas gift for girls of all ages. www.evelynlily.com.au

Add fun to children's parties or dress up time with these cute photo booth props. Pick the KIDS set or Christmas set, each with a collection of 20 heavy-duty card props. The KIDS edition includes diving goggles, princess crown and wand, fireman's hat, pirate hat and mic, while the PHOTO BOOTH Christmas set includes Santa hats, DRESS-UP PROPS reindeer ears and candy canes … from $24.95 and so much more. http://shop.until.com.au

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

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The award-winning snow globe by Seedling gets a makeover for Christmas. A great activity for ages 6 years +, the kit contains a plastic globe, make and bake polymer clay, snow globe stand, glitter, EVA sheet and instructions. www.goodthingsforkids.com NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

THE P FILES

Is my child too sensitive?

by Dr Kelly Bowers, Psychologist, Youthrive Integrated Therapy Services SENSITIVITY IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO OUR SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT. IT HELPS US TO UNDERSTAND OURSELVES AND OTHERS AROUND US. BY BEING AWARE OF OUR EMOTIONS WE ARE ABLE TO COMMUNICATE OUR NEEDS AND EXPERIENCES WITH THOSE WE HOLD DEAR. IN TURN, BY BEING SENSITIVE WE ARE ABLE TO COMPARE OUR EXPERIENCES TO THOSE OF THE PEOPLE AROUND US AND TO SHOW EMPATHY AND COMPASSION IN RELATION TO THEM. Those who ‘wear their hearts on their sleeve’ are able to let people know who they are and what is important to them. The alternative is to mask our emotions, only letting them out once in a while. This may not only limit the number of people who we connect with, but may also impact on the quality of our relationships with others if we don’t let them see who we are on the inside. Expressing our emotions and providing emotional support to others is the core of developing relationships and is the crux of all humankind. Without them, our lives would be largely unfulfilled. Think about the time when your child took their first steps – imagine what that experience would have been like if we were unable to feel emotions like pride, elation and joy. Emotional expression is equally important to children. Because the brain is still developing during childhood, our children often have less ability to think rationally about their needs and to communicate them appropriately. For example, a child who is

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

hungry may start crying or show signs of anger and frustration. These are essentially signposts for caregivers to follow. Our children rely on their emotions to let us know what they need. Provided that we have experienced similar emotions and/or have interpreted our child’s emotions correctly, we are then able to provide our child with the relevant support they require. But when are children too sensitive? This is similar to asking ‘how long is a piece of string.’ A simple answer is that the expression of feelings become problematic when emotions are easily and regularly triggered by even the smallest of adversities. Similarly, children may appear to be oversensitive if they become solely dependent on us as caregivers to meet their needs. If emotions become debilitating and prevent a child from completing everyday tasks or activities, we can almost certainly determine that the child is ‘sensitive’ to something.

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

THE P FILES

But this is not necessarily an easy thing to identify. Several contextual factors often need to be considered first, before determining whether a child has displayed an overreaction to a particular event. Things that need to be considered are the developmental age of the child, the child’s previous experiences that may be associated with the emotion and our own expectations and beliefs about what degree of emotional expression is appropriate.

CHILD DEVELOPMENTAL AGE We wouldn’t consider a one-year-old child as being too sensitive if they cried as a result of not being able to find their caregiver in the exact moment that they needed them; however the same cannot be said for a 12-year-old who we would expect to communicate this need by using words. During infancy, our children are obviously very dependent on us as caregivers to support both their physical and emotional needs. When our children cry, we are there to hold them and nurture them. As our children begin to grow they not only tend to cry less often, but they learn that crying in certain other ways will help their varying needs to be met. For example, tantrums or clingy behaviours are also tools that children use to communicate that they have a requirement that needs to be met. As children get older their thinking, reasoning and problem-solving abilities begin to improve. This typically starts developing around 6–8 years of age and may not be fully developed until they reach their mid-20s. As their thinking abilities improve, children require less nurturing and holding and are better equipped at trying to problem solve with the support of their caregiver. While crying is a perfectly normal and positive way to release and express emotions, children will begin to rely on this mode of communication less frequently as they get older. A child may be considered to be sensitive to a specific situation if they frequently become emotional in a particular circumstance time and time again.

PARENTAL EXPECTATIONS We all tend to have different ideas about what emotions are acceptable under particular conditions. As a society we tend to place too much of a negative view on emotions such as anger or sadness. They are often considered taboo. The fact is that these are normal emotions that all people experience in varying forms on a daily basis. Despite our best efforts, we will never be able to completely protect our children from ever experiencing these emotions. What makes them 'okay' or 'not okay' is the manner in which they are expressed. The focus should not be on how to prevent these emotions from occurring, but rather how we can appropriately cope with them when they do occur. It is better that we spend time supporting our children in learning how to manage and cope with their emotions rather than trying to protect them from ever experiencing the emotion in the first place. It is safe to say that we can expect our children to express varying degrees of emotions from time to time; in fact, we should encourage it. However, if children do not possess the appropriate emotional coping skills, it is more likely that they will experience emotional distress from even small adversities. They may potentially even develop a sensitivity to them.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

TIPS TO INCREASE EMOTIONAL REGULATION AND INDEPENDENCE 1) Be present Your child will look to you for guidance in times of distress. Stop what you are doing. Get down on your child’s level. Look at your child. Speak with a calm voice.

2) Put your child’s feelings into words Give them the words that you would like them to use. Eg. “You look sad”; “It sounds like you are cross”

3) Help your child to recognise what is happening to their body Bring body changes to their attention. Eg. “You look like you are puffing”; “Put your hand on your chest. Is it beating fast or slow?”.

4) Practice some relaxation Take some deep breaths or stretch your muscles

5) Empathise with your child and normalise their experience Let them know that you understand what they are feeling. Eg. “I’d feel angry too if someone said that to me”

6) Problem solve together Work out a plan of action. Talk about what your child could the next time that situation occurs

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THE P FILES

PAST EXPERIENCES It is common that children may display a particular sensitivity to a negative situation or event that they have experienced in the past. Often our emotions can be of benefit to us, as they may protect us from harm, motivate us to complete particular tasks or help us to seek security from loved ones. Nonetheless, if children perceive a situation to be of threat to their wellbeing, it is reasonable to expect that they may become alert to similar threats that may occur again in the future. While this may be classed as being sensitive, a response that is perhaps ‘too’ sensitive may be one that results in avoidance of an activity and one that impairs the child’s ability to participate in daily tasks. The way in which caregivers manage these fears may determine the degree of sensitivity that children experience in response to these situations again in the future.

PARENT-CHILD ATTACHMENTS Children who feel safe and secure in their world are typically better able to cope with adversity and to organise and manage their emotions. The sense of feeling safe and secure within our world is developed based on the relationship that we have with our caregivers. If children have had their needs met consistently by their caregivers and have been supported by their caregivers to manage their emotions with increasing independence, then they are less likely to become overly sensitive to life’s smaller challenges. This is referred to as having a secure attachment between the child and caregiver. The two extremes of less secure attachments range from poor attachment in which caregivers provide inconsistent support to their children to an over attachment or ‘enmeshment’ between child and caregiver. In poor attachments, the caregiver may not always make themselves available to the child's emotional needs or may even prioritise their own emotional needs ahead of their child's. In these instances, amongst other difficulties, the child views the world as being unpredictable and is constantly on alert for danger. Small adversities may trigger large emotional reactions as the child does not possess the adequate skills to cope with any ‘threat’ to their wellbeing. Children who have experienced poor attachments are also less likely to understand and respond appropriately to the emotions expressed by others. The child’s emotional response often becomes inconsistent and is difficult to predict. Here the child may appear to be overly sensitive to a situation or circumstance.

On the other end of the spectrum are child-caregiver relationships that have become enmeshed and the child becomes overly dependent on the caregiver’s support. These children typically do not learn to cope with their emotions independently and can only seem to manage their emotions when their caregiver is present. The problem here is that children cannot remain in the care of their attachment person indefinitely. At some point, children start going to kindergarten, school, and sleepovers at friends’ houses. Not to mention when they start to fly the nest and experience the big world on their own accord in adolescence and early adulthood. It is true that we have better chance of success in later life if we have had a secure base in which to launch from, however in order to achieve this children require opportunities to develop their independence and to manage their emotions without always having to rely on the support of the caregiver.

WHAT CAN WE DO? It is our role as caregivers to model ways in which to cope with distress to our children. This includes ways to regulate emotions and begin solving problems. Without an adequate role model in the area of emotional regulation, children may potentially experience difficulty regulating their own emotions in the future and become overly sensitive to adverse situations. In order to develop these skills, we need to allow our children opportunities to experience different emotions including those not-so-pleasant ones from time to time. But it is equally important to ensure that we are there not only to pick our children up when they fall, but to also guide them in how they can learn from their mistakes. The old saying rings true – we learn from our mistakes and misfortunes. Once we have experienced a negative emotion and have had the appropriate level of support from our caregiver, we are then better equipped to cope with the same challenge if it presents itself again in the future. As much as we delight in the youthful innocence of our children, our long-term goal should always be to support our children in becoming independent people who are capable of managing their own emotions when needed, but who still feel comfortable seeking support from others at the same time. FOR MORE INFORMATION RELATING TO CHILD EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT, PLEASE VISIT THE RAISING CHILDREN NETWORK WEBSITE AT WWW.RAISINGCHILDREN.NET.AU.

Children who feel safe and secure in their world are typically better able to cope with adversity and to organise and manage their emotions. 22

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

EDUCATION

m o o r s s la the perils c e h t n i s ros + p p e o h T t Lap

By Jessica Jane Sammut

WITH THE GROWING NUMBER OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN FINDING THAT TECHNOLOGY SUCH AS LAPTOPS AND IPADS ARE A STANDARD PART OF THEIR SCHOOL DAY, JESSICA JANE SAMMUT ASKS THE QUESTION – ARE THEY A HELP OR A HINDRANCE? It’s a digital age. Technology is racing forward, and with it, the world is changing – but nowhere quite so much as in the classroom. As is the nature of momentum, the face of education is an evolving and ever-changing landscape, constantly appraised and improved upon to better help our children learn and grow. However, when there are changes being made in the name of progress, we must always be careful to step back and ask – IS this better? It’s true we can’t stand still, but we must always be sure that any kind of amendment to a learning method is a step forward and not a leap back. And in a modern terrain that is obsessed with quick results, the temptation to cut corners can be all too real.

“When children begin school, their learning is very play based. As students get older, they learn through discussion and experimentation. The common thread is that they learn by doing and interacting with others. Students need to interact and engage with what they are learning so that it is meaningful and therefore more likely to be remembered and transferred to other contexts.”

HOW DO PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN LEARN?

“When we were at school, classrooms were focused on the teacher. Students sat passively, listened quietly, took notes and memorised facts. Today, classrooms are very different places. Classrooms have needed to move with the times. Teachers are preparing students for the future. Students are now required to think, question and generate independent thought from the moment they enter kindergarten.”

“Students in primary school learn differently at different ages,” says leading educator Nadia McCallum, who holds a Masters in

So does technology help or hinder this approach? Are we dumbing down, or are we moving with the times?

So is technology in the primary school classroom something to be embraced or something to be ejected?

Teaching and was recently awarded The Director General’s Award for Excellence in Service to Public Education and Training.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

EDUCATION

THE PROS PROMOTES INDEPENDENCE AND SELF-DIRECTION In order to become lifelong learners, students need to develop the skills of research and inquiry, and this is where computers really excel. Today, a teacher’s role is to guide students to find their own answers, rather than simply telling them the answer. This form of guided inquiry happens from a very young age. Therefore, technology is a necessary tool if students are to be taught how to independently acquire such information. “Computers allow students to be independent and self-directed in finding out their own answers,” confirms Nadia. Jenny Atkinson, a primary school teacher with 30 years of experience, and now an education transition specialist and founder of Sparks Education Australia (www.sparkseducation.com.au), agrees. “Laptops in classrooms provide students with the opportunity to be more selfdirected, with greater responsibility for their learning, whilst still under the overall direction of a teacher,” Jenny confirms.

OFFERS IMMEDIATE ACCESS TO INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE Offering immediate access to information and resources, laptops in the classroom encourage students to be curious. “Such learning can provide greater access to the curriculum at an appropriate level to consolidate and advance a child’s education, particularly for students with special needs,” says Jenny. It also allows equal access to information for all students as they are not reliant on having the ‘right’ books at hand.

CREATES A FUN LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

STUDENTS NEED TO INTERACT AND ENGAGE WITH WHAT THEY ARE LEARNING SO THAT IT IS MEANINGFUL. - NADIA MCCALLUM

With many educational games now available on the laptop and tablet, such technology can help make learning a source of fun, and the power of this can never be underestimated in terms of how children view schoolwork. Games that promote maths and literacy are often loved by young children who don’t even realise they are learning when playing them. Platforms such at ABC’s Reading Eggs and Mathseeds are two such games that deeply connect with youngsters, enhancing their learning and nurturing their love of education. “Such games can motivate children to keep trying, because they want to get to the next level,” explains Jenny. “This is particularly good for children who struggle with their work. This interest and motivation is difficult to replicate using worksheets.” Other less obvious games, such as Minecraft, that don’t have a clear learning goal at their core, can be equally as helpful in fostering and consolidating essential skills. “In order to play Minecraft effectively, students need a sound understanding of a broad range of mathematical concepts – numbers, area, time and money to mention a few, and need to be able to work with others in order to trade and build things, and plan ahead to meet targets,” confirms Nadia.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

“Children who are engaged and interested are more likely to learn and retain new learning,” adds Jenny. “They are also more likely to persevere with tasks if they find them interesting. Many children are more motivated to complete work and be actively engaged in their learning with technology-based activities.”

ENCOURAGES GLOBAL CONNECTIVITY Students as young as five are now aware of a global world. Many students travel internationally before entering school. Others see the wider world via television shows and movies. Classrooms that reflect this global connectivity via the use of technology offer a way to tap into it further. “It is not uncommon for students to email or Skype other students in different countries using their laptops,” explains Nadia. “By making such connections, the knowledge they acquire becomes meaningful in a global context.”

PROMOTES DIGITAL LITERACY “Technology is so interwoven in how we operate in the wider world, that to restrict it would not be doing a child any favours,” says Nadia. “Computers are integral to the workplace and are only becoming more so.” It therefore makes sense that our children are exposed to technology as a tool for learning. It is reflective of how the ‘real world’ operates. Like anything though, balance is key, and the use of technology should not replace active play or other skills that are learnt at school. It should merely complement or enhance such proficiencies. “The use of laptops in classrooms teaches students to use, differentiate and examine/analyse information in a way that is current,” confirms Jenny. “It prepares children for their participation in the digital world.”

PROVIDES CONTEXTUAL LEARNING The opportunity for children to participate in their learning and find a context for their theoretical knowledge is far greater with the use of technology. Children are better able to understand the value of what they are learning which means they are more likely to retain the learning.

ENCOURAGES HIGHER ORDER THINKING “Laptops can help a student think more widely, especially when they are given a choice as to how they will present their learning/ findings,” says Jenny. They allow young students to think ‘outside the square’, providing access to a variety of tools for presenting knowledge, which only serves to complement the more traditional aspects of a learning structure.

SUPPLEMENTS LEARNING Laptops in the classroom can be used as a tool to supplement learning: for example, a child might write a story on paper, edit it and then publish it with a laptop. More skills are being learnt than if the technology was not available.

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

EDUCATION

THE PERILS ENCOURAGES MULTI-TASKING MANIA AND DISTRACTION

CREATES A SCHOOL/HOME TECHNOLOGY USE IMBALANCE

Research has shown that multi-tasking can decrease performance and overall comprehension. Further to this, multi-tasking on a computer not only distracts the user, but can also distract those around them. Dealing with this issue effectively essentially comes down to the teacher in the classroom however.

Some children may already spend too much time on technology at home. “Health concerns such as eyestrain or posture problems can be an issue for these children,” says Jenny. It can therefore be problematic to ensure there is a good balance of technology use between home and school, especially as this varies so much from one home (and classroom) to the next.

“If a teacher is employing regular checks with students and making them accountable for the progress they are making, they are more likely to attend to the task at hand,” explains Nadia. “Children have the potential to be distracted by other programs/activities on a laptop. Good classroom management/monitoring by a teacher is therefore essential,” Jenny concurs.

PROVIDES ACCESS TO INAPPROPRIATE CONTENT As we know, it is very easy for children to access the wrong kind of content on the internet, and this is a common concern for parents. Some schools provide digital devices to students where the devices stay at school and are protected by the school Wi-Fi restrictions and filters. Other schools implement the BYOD (‘Bring Your Own Device’) strategy where students can bring a device from home. “The danger with parents providing the devices is that, unless each device is configured to adhere to settings that protect the device from accessing adult content or prevent the device from having games downloaded onto it, a child’s school laptop might expose children to inappropriate material,” says cyber safety expert, Leonie Smith (www.cybersafetylady.com.au). “Some families are tech savvy and have parental controls set up on their child’s device, but the majority of families do not. More education needs to happen around these devices as to what controls and filters can be enabled to lessen the risk of exposure to improper content if technology is to be a standard part of the school day.”

DEPLETES LEARNING TIME “Learning time can be wasted when technical issues arise, such as login dramas, short battery life or the internet going offline,” warns Jenny. All can deplete learning time. It’s the unexpected nature of laptop problems that can create issues in the classroom, and even if teachers do have a back-up activity, it is often not their first choice of learning experience. It is therefore vital that laptops are up to date and reliable.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

CREATES AN OVER-RELIANCE ON TOOLS Do laptops encourage laziness in children? Perhaps. With tools such as automatic spell and grammar check, children can become apathetic about using their brains. “Teachers need to teach children how to use such tools appropriately in an educationally beneficial manner and also to understand their limitations,” reminds Jenny.

REPLACES TRADITIONAL LEARNING Technology is not the only tool available in learning and children should know this. “Laptops and other technology should not replace the teacher’s effort in a classroom nor should they replace any other learning experience,” says Jenny. And this is the concern – that they might. Technology needs to be viewed as one tool amongst many other educational tools available to assist children with their learning.

WHAT CAN TEACHERS DO? “Teachers need to be aware of both the benefits and drawbacks of using technology in the classroom so that they can provide balanced opportunities for learning that both engage children and promote a lifelong love of learning,” says Jenny.

HOW CAN WE HELP OUR CHILDREN? “The best way for parents to support this type of learning is to be involved with their children,” advises Nadia. “Parents don’t have to completely understand the technology their kids are using, but need to understand enough to know the value of what their children are doing and if there is anything that might be a potential issue. If parents are unsure, they should speak to their child’s teacher.”

WITH TOOLS SUCH AS AUTOMATIC SPELL AND GRAMMAR CHECK, CHILDREN CAN BECOME APATHETIC ABOUT USING THEIR BRAINS.

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

EDUCATION

WHAT OUR LITTLE LEARNERS THINK “Laptops help me progress with my learning by giving me a wide variety of programs to use which help to extend my knowledge. They are more interesting to use than pen and paper because I can present my work in so many creative ways.” Year Six student: Hannah (12 years old) “We use the laptops for maths. We play treasure hunt which helps my learning and is a fun game.” Year One Student: Ella (6 years old) “We get to make presentations and documents about what we learn. We have fun by using games that help us with numbers and shapes.” Year Two Student: Lily (8 years old)

WHAT PARENTS SAY “We're preparing children for a future we can't even imagine. We are educating them for careers and jobs that don't even exist yet. I believe to do this successfully they need to have a diverse range of skills that promote flexibility and ongoing learning and we should be encouraging a desire to seek out information. Being at the forefront of technology in schools, I believe, is one of the ways to prepare our children for whatever the future holds.” Melanie McNiven, Noosa

“I strongly support the use of any computer devices in the classroom alongside the traditional methods of learning. Both my eldest boys have had delayed speech and my middle one suffers from language delay and impaired learning. Traditional reading and writing does not work well for them. Their school uses many forms of learning. I know a lot of the computer work involves logging on to specific sites such as Bug Club, Reading Eggs and Mathletics. They are also encouraged to use their laptops as a resource to look up items or information.” Caroline Thompson, Doonan

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Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

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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

Phone: 5439 7844

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Near Coles at Pelican Waters Shopping Centre, Pelican Waters Blvd, Pelican Waters Email: info@LSOPTOM.COM

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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The Creative Classroom By Genevieve Hudson, Assistant Head – P-2, at Sunshine Coast Grammar School Why value creativity in classrooms? Creativity doesn’t just happen in an art lesson. An effective teacher will facilitate opportunities for creative thinking and problem solving in every lesson. But why would this be an important part of teaching and learning? Our ideas about the role of talking in the classroom have changed radically over the years. We no longer consider that a ‘good’ classroom is necessarily a quiet one; we understand that learning is frequently most effective when learners have the opportunity to think and talk together, to discuss ideas, question, analyse and solve problems, without the constant mediation of the teacher. Most of our thinking has been heavily influenced by the work of Lev Vygotsky, and his concept of learning as a social process. In recent years, his ideas have been reflected in a number of learning and teaching approaches, including co-operative learning and critical skills. Creativity is clearly important on a national and global level for economic growth and development. But there is an increasing recognition that is key at an individual level also. Creativity improves the self-esteem, motivation and achievement of learners. Pupils who are encouraged to think creatively become more interested in discovering things for themselves; are more open to new ideas and challenges; are more able to solve problems; can work well with others; become more effective learners; and have greater ownership over their learning. Creativity can be described as letting go of certainties. In our modern world we can no longer afford to have teachers focus only on skills and knowledge. Our students require more than this to operate in a new and rapidly changing world. Rapidly advancing changes in technology means

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

their future looks nothing like the past. We need to produce problem solvers, innovative, and creative thinkers. Creativity doesn’t just happen. It needs to be cultivated. We need to teach creative skills explicitly. According to Collard, “Creative skills aren’t just about good ideas, they are about having the skills to make good ideas happen.” He suggests creative skills should include five major areas: imagination; being disciplined or self-motivated; resiliency; collaboration; giving responsibility to students. How do we do this with young learners? The creativity-inspiring classroom is a culture not a set of rules or specific activities. It is a mindset that teachers demonstrate to their students every day. How do you personally respond to “wrong” answers, assumptions, or points of view? Are they immediately corrected or they investigated? Do you yourself acknowledge that every individual has a unique set of experiences, point of view, and problems that may be reflected in her work? Do you honestly believe the old adage “there’s no such thing as a stupid question?” Do you always dig a little deeper before judging? I have to admit, these are all tough mindsets for us to practice! We also need to respect it and the students who demonstrate it. Remember that courage is a critical attribute of the creative individual. Fear of ridicule inhibits children from offering a divergent opinion and keeps a lot of hands from designing something original. A teacher’s respect and the respect she builds in her students is the most important element of a classroom that builds rather than destroys creativity.

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ADVERTISEMENT/LOCAL BUSINESS

Infinity: more than 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.

limits in both areas, which help them to stay fit, positive of mind and on the right path the reaching their full potential in life.

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.

3. Respect: the instructors at Infinity work one-on-one with the students and strive to ensure all children learn the art of respect - teaching them to behave appropriately and hold a high regard for teachers, parents and other mentors that are present during their life.

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.

4. Honour: all children will have the opportunity to progress through the coloured belt rank system. This provides the building blocks for learning how to set and achieve goals. The honour brings a positive social standing and more importantly improves their overall self-esteem.

Their programs not only teach children healthy and active habits from a young age, but also endeavour to give every student valuable lessons for life. All instructors at Infinity are full-time professionals that take pride in teaching quality, child-friendly martial arts that will help tackle selfconfidence, bullying and socialisation issues.

5. Personal Safety: students are trained to defend themselves against bullies in and out of the schoolyard. infinity teach non-violent ways to deal with the bully as well as providing valuable tools to make sure children don’t become a bully themselves.

1. Self-Discipline: research shows that children who train in martial arts develop a high level of discipline that flows through to how they focus and behave on a daily basis, in the classroom or at home.

6. Self-confidence and self-esteem: people that high levels of selfconfidence and self-esteem are less likely to be bullied, or become a bully for that matter. They are more likely to take on leadership roles in later life and have the belief in themselves to chase their dreams. This is the single most powerful life lesson, and one that they focus on most at Infinity.

2. Strength: physical and mental strength can be one of the most valuable components to carry through life. Children are encouraged to push their

“Your child deserves the best start in life - give them that with Infinity Martial Arts!” Call 1300 INFINITY for more details.

The Infinity Martial Arts 6 Lessons for Life

BE QUICK! OFFER EXPIRES 12TH DECEMBER 2014

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

TINY TOTS WICKID WEDNESDAYS

NOVEMBER 23

SPORTS MONTH “BREAK UP PARTY”

SUNDAY ROAST IN THE SHED

Where: Kandanga Amamoor Rd, Kandanga Recreational Ground, Kandanga When: 12pm – 8pm

MARY RIVER FESTIVAL

NOVEMBER 8

Where: Mystery Island Kids Club, Maroochy RSL When: 7pm Kids! Grab your Mum’s fancy hats and your Dad’s dancing shoes, it’s your turn to play with the horses, and you can’t lose! There will be lots of different sports games, so join us to secure your spot in the Mystery Island Hall of Fame! Details: Members $2.50; Non-Members $4.50 www.maroochyrsl.com.au/mystery-island

MELBOURNE CUP FANCY DRESS

NOVEMBER 8

NOVEMBER 29

NOVEMBER 9 AND DECEMBER 21

SANTA’S ARRIVAL AND COMMENCEMENT OF FREE SANTA PHOTOS

Where: Sunshine Coast Stadium The Gatorade Queensland Triathlon Series welcomes athletes of all ages and abilities to

GATORADE QUEENSLAND TRI SERIES

NOVEMBER 16

Where: Kawana Shopping World, 119 Point Cartwright Drive, Buddina When: Parade at 10am; Photos from 11am Santa is arriving at Kawana! Come along for FREE show bags and balloons for the kids, as well as the commencement of our FREE Santa Photos which will run every day until Christmas Eve. Details: Free www.kawanashoppingworld.com.au

NOVEMBER 15

Where: Butter Factory Arts Centre, 10 Maple St, Cooroy When: 10am – 12pm Be inspired by the latest exhibition then spend time creating your own masterpiece! Family orientated art activities based on the current exhibition. Details: Free. www.noosa.qld.gov.au

Where: Sunshine Coast Libraries Give the gift of reading this Christmas. Purchase a new children’s or teen book and donate it to our annual Christmas book drive. Books will be distributed to less fortunate families in time for Christmas. Details: www.library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Where: Noosa Civic Food Court When: Parade time: 10:30am with Santa and live Reindeer; Party times: 11am and 1pm. RSVP now to join Rudolph, Santa and friends for a live Christmas show, special party treats

RUDOLPH’S CHRISTMAS PARTY

NOVEMBER 22

Where: Aussie World When: 12 noon to 3pm With live entertainment, cold beers and the absolute best roast you’ve ever tasted, Ettamogah Pub’s Sunday Roast in the Shed is the ultimate way to spend an afternoon out. Cost: $20 Adults | $15 Children (12 and under) Details: www.aussieworld.com.au/events/ sunday-roast-in-the-shed

Where: North Shore Community Centre, 701 David Low Way, Mudjimba When: 10am – 2pm

NORTH SHORE COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

NOVEMBER 29

Where: Mystery Island Kids Club, Maroochy RSL When: 7pm Congratulations athletes everywhere! We’ve all played fantastically, and it’s all been fair. Come celebrate our sports month break up, and join us to see who wins the Mystery Island Cup! Details: Members $2.50; Non-Members $4.50 www.maroochyrsl.com.au/mystery-island

Where: Model Railway Park, Florence St, Nambour When: 10am – 3pm Kids love riding on these mini steam trains and diesel locos. Bring a picnic and make a day of it. Enclosed footwear must be worn when riding on trains. Details: www.scrms.org.au

MINI STEAM TRAIN RIDES

Where: Sunshine Coast Libraries Expressions of interest are sought from creative teens and young adults aged 10–25 years to be part of the Sunshine Coast Libraries annual summer youth market. Every Saturday morning from November 29 to December 20, young artists can set up shop in the library of their choice to sell their merchandise and gain invaluable business experience. Details: www.library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/

GET CREATIVE

BOOKS 4 KIDS

Y-SHOP REGISTRATIONS OPEN

NOVEMBER 15 AND DECEMBER 20

NOVEMBER

Where: Kawana Waters Hotel When: Fri and Sat night, Sunday afternoon Enjoy a meal on the deck while the kids are entertained with colouring in, face painting, games and a jumping castle. Details: Free. www.kawanawatershotel.com.au

Where: Event Cinemas, Maroochydore, Sunshine Plaza When: See website Take the family to the movies and catch a cheap flick! See some great family films, starting from 10am every Saturday and Sunday. Details: Only $6 per ticket www.eventcinemas.com.au/eventspromotions/events/weekend-family-flicks November 1 & 2: Planes: Fire and Rescue November 8 & 9: House of Magic November 15 & 16: Planes: Fire and Rescue November 22 & 23: The Boxtrolls November 29 & 30: Planes: Fire and Rescue December TBA

WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS

SATURDAY AND SUNDAYS

NOVEMBER 10 TO DECEMBER 15

Where: Aussie World When: 10am – 12noon Rides available from 10am until 12 noon: Tykes Trolley, Tin Lids Tea Party, The Carousel and Giggle Go Round. Details: $10 each and adults get a free coffee with any cafe purchase. www.aussieworld. com.au/events/tiny-tots-wickid-wednesday

KIDS ENTERTAINMENT – KAWANA WATERS HOTEL

Where: Butter Factory Arts Centre, 10 Maple Street, Cooroy When: 9.30am – 12pm Award winning ceramic artist Merrie Tomkins provides children with the experience of working in a pottery studio. Details: $35 per class (includes materials, firing and glazing). Contact Merrie: 0412 486 438 or email: merrietomkins@hotmail.com www.noosa.qld.gov.au/whats-on-bfac

Where: Buderim Aquatic Centre When: 11am – 12noon Bring your child to Buderim’s heated, enclosed teaching pool for an hour of swim time with toys, small inflatables and music, with a qualified instructor on hand. Details: $6 for the first child and $3 for any subsequent children in the family. www.swimfit.com.au EVERY WEDNESDAY DURING SCHOOL TERMS

SATURDAY KIDS POTTERY WORKSHOP

SWAMPY GYM - UNDER 5'S WATER PLAY FUN

OCTOBER 13 – NOVEMBER 9

WORLD KINDNESS DAY

NOV 13

Where: Maleny Dairies, 70 McCarthy Road, Maleny When: 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: $11 per person (2yrs & over). Bookings: 5494 2392 www.malenydairies.com

MALENY DAIRIES FARM & FACTORY TOUR

MONDAY TO SATURDAY

EVERY SATURDAY (EXCEPT SCHOOL HOLIDAYS)

MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY

Where: Bulcock St, Caloundra When: 8am – 1pm There is something for the whole family with activities for kids, handcrafted locally made products and art, live entertainment and street theatre. Details: www.caloundrastreetfair.com.au

THE CALOUNDRA STREET FAIR

EVERY SUNDAY

Where: Bulcock Beach Esplanade, Caloundra When: 4pm – 9pm A special twilight market featuring 100 unique stalls with street food, gourmet sweets, fashion, jewellery, fun stuff for kids and more. Details: www.caloundrastreetfair.com.au/twilight-markets-sunshine-coast

TWILIGHT MARKETS CALOUNDRA

EVERY FRIDAY IN DECEMBER

Where: Big Pineapple, Nambour Connection Rd, 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

BIG PINEAPPLE MARKETS

EVERY SATURDAY

Where: Talara Primary College, Talara St, Currimundi. When: 8am – 12pm A locally owned market selling pre-loved, new and beautiful handmade items for the under fives. Details: Entry $2, Kids Free www.sunnycoastbabykidsmarket.com.au

SUNNY COAST BABY AND KIDS MARKET

DECEMBER 7

Where: Sunshine Beach Bicentennial Hall, Bicentennial Drive, Noosa. When: 8am – 11am Find everything you’ll need for your baby, at a fraction of the price! Details: Gold coin entry. www.noosakidsmarket.com.au

NOOSA KIDS AND BABY MARKET

NOVEMBER 30

Where: Nambour State Primary, Coronation Drive, Nambour When: 8am – 12pm A locally owned market selling pre-loved, new and beautiful handmade items for the under fives. Details: Entry $2, Kids Free. www.sunnycoastbabykidsmarket.com.au

SUNNY COAST BABY AND KIDS MARKET

NOVEMBER 16

Where: Ocean St, Maroochydore When: 5pm – 9pm An evening of art, craft and culture held in the new epicentre of Maroochydore. Details: www.nightsonocean.com.au

NIGHTS ON OCEAN

NOVEMBER 14 AND DECEMBER 12

MARKETS

- CALENDAR -

REGULAR EVENTS

Sun

as o C e hin

compete in a fun, friendly environment. From the kool kids 7yrs+ races, to the beginners getting a feel for a triathlon, to challenging yourself to take on the sprint and super sprint distances races, there has never been a better time to tri! Details: www.qldtriseries.com.au and a free gift bag to take home! Plus visit Rudolph’s real live reindeer friends in the mall! Details: Free. To secure your seat RSVP via website or call 5440 7900 www.noosacivicshopping.com.au

Free family fun day with jumping castles, face painting, wildlife show and Santa arriving in a HELICOPTER! Details: Free

eGUIDE

holiday

2 0 1 4 / JA N U ER A

DECEMBER 16 TO 18

Where: Cotton Tree Park When: From 4:30pm

Where: Beerwah Sports Ground When: From 5pm

CHRISTMAS CAROLS

DECEMBER 13

Where: Mystery Island Kids Club, Maroochy RSL When: 7pm It may be summer in Australia but wouldn’t you like to have a White Christmas and build snowmen ... like Olaf. Details: Members $2.50; Non-Members $4.50 www.maroochyrsl.com.au/mystery-island

WHITE CHRISTMAS

DECEMBER 13

Where: Caloundra Regional Gallery When: 10am – 12 noon Children of all ages can engage in exciting and creative activities. Details: Free. galleries.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

KIDS CLUB

DECEMBER 7

Where: Currimundi Lake, Currimundi When: 4pm – 8pm 4 hours of entertainment, supervised kids activities, great food and a beautiful parade of canoes and kayaks lit with Christmas lights. Details: Free. www.currimundicatchment.org.au

LIGHTS ON THE LAKE

DECEMBER 7

CHRISTMAS CAROLS

Where: Kings Beach Amphitheatre When: From 4:30pm

CHRISTMAS CAROLS

DECEMBER 20

Where: Butter Factory Arts Centre, 10 Maple Street, Cooroy When: 9.30am Exhibition-related activities follow a guided tour for tots. Held in conjunction with Cooroy Library. Details: Free. www.noosa.qld.gov.au

TIME FOR TOTS

DECEMBER 17

Where: Butter Factory Arts Centre, 10 Maple Street, Cooroy When: 5-8 years (10.30am – 11.30am); 9-12 years (12 noon – 1.30pm) Engaging and creative art workshops for our younger audience based on current exhibitions with experienced art teacher Pam Walsh. Details: $8. To book, contact 5329 6580 or email gallery@noosa.qld.gov.au www.noosa.qld.gov.au/whats-on-bfac

KIDZART SUMMER HOLIDAY WORKSHOP

DECEMBER 16

Where: Art & Ecology Centre, Maroochy Regional, Bushland Botanic Garden, Tanawha Botanic Gardens, Palm Creek Rd, Tanawha When: Various times as per program Creating gifts and decorations using recycled and natural materials. Bookings will open November 20 and are essential for these popular workshops. Details: The registration fee of $5.00 per child to be paid at the time of booking at www.community.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/events

A RECYCLED CHRISTMAS

Where: The Workshops Rail Museum, North St, North Ipswich Catch the Christmas spirit with a festive return steam train journey. Add museum entry and make a whole day of Christmas activities. Details: Family $152, Child (under 15) $32.50, Adult $45. Under 3 free www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au

Where: The J Noosa, 60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Junction When: 6pm – 8pm 8 to 12 year olds can dance the night away in a safe, secure and fun filled venue. Details: $6. www.thej.com.au DECEMBER 6

CHRISTMAS EXPRESS

DECEMBER 14

GREENZONE DISCO

DECEMBER 5

Where: Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba When: 4pm – Midnight This free family friendly event is packed full of live entertainment and fun activities including live music, DJs, carnival rides, amusements, street performers, buskers, roving performers, face painting and two spectacular fireworks displays. Details: Free. www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

NEW YEAR’S EVE MOOLOOLABA

DECEMBER 31

Where: Mystery Island Kid’s Club, Maroochy RSL When: 7pm Now that Christmas is over its time for the Elves to celebrate. Dress as your favourite elf and come down to Mystery Island for the Elf party of the year. Details: Members $2.50; Non-Members $4.50 www.maroochyrsl.com.au/mystery-island

ELF’S CHRISTMAS PARTY

DECEMBER 27

Where: Venning St, Mooloolaba When: Daily 4pm until late Come join the carnival fun! Old-fashioned rides, sideshow alley and back by popular demand – piglet racing! Details: Free

CARNIVAL BY THE SEA

DECEMBER 26 TO JANUARY 17

Where: Mooloolaba When: 6:30pm Bring your family, pack a picnic and get yourselves ready for a magical floating light spectacular. Details: Free

MOOLOOLABA CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE

DECEMBER 20

Where: Kings Beach Amphitheatre, Kings Beach When: 4:30pm Come and enjoy a wonderful Christmas celebration with entertainment, food and fun including a spectacular fireworks show. Details: Free; BYO chair/blanket www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

CAROLS ON KINGS BEACH

DECEMBER 20

CHRISTMAS

Sign up at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au for our weekly What’s On guide. We also have a special comprehensive activity and event eGuide every school holidays, covering all of South East Queensland. You can sign up online to be notified when the guide is launched and to receive the link to download your personal copy.

Don’t miss out on any events!

DEC 5

- in the city

DOWNLOAD

- on the coast

Where: Sunshine Coast Libraries (various locations) Get ready for Adventure reading! The annual Summer Reading Club promotes reading for fun and aids children in keeping their literacy levels up over the long summer holidays. Great prizes are up for grabs. Details: www.library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

SUMMER READING CLUB

DECEMBER 1

Where: Aussie World When: Throughout December. Carols by Candlelight December 21 Come visit Santa along with his elves, soldiers and friends in a Christmas wonderland. Loads of fun, activities and more so make sure you don’t miss out! Details: www.aussieworld.com.au/events/ christmas-wonderland

CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND

DECEMBER

Where: Sunshine Coast Libraries Need some original, handmade gifts for Christmas? Visit the Y-shop at designated Sunshine Coast Libraries to purchase unique merchandise. By doing so you will be supporting young entrepreneurs aged 10 – 25 to start their own business. Details: www.library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Y-SHOP NOW OPEN

EACH SATURDAY NOVEMBER 29 TO DECEMBER 20

DECEMBER 25

DECEMBER

Visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au for more events

This year’s theme is ‘weaving community’ and marks five years since the end of the Traveston Crossing Dam proposal. Jampacked day of entertainment workshops, activities, talks and movies. Details: Adults $5, Children $2 www.maryriverfestival.org.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

- on the coast

* 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

Brisbane Entertainment Centre www.brisent.com.au/Event_Calendar/Disney_Live.aspx

DISNEY LIVE!

JANUARY 17

Lake Kawana Community Centre. www.scvenuesandevents.com.au

THE LISTIES MAKE YOU LOL!

JANUARY 13

QPAC Playhouse. www.qpac.com.au

GIGGLE AND HOOT AND FRIENDS

JANUARY 3 TO 11

Cremorne Theatre, QPAC www.qpac.com.au/event/Dinosaur_Zoo_15.aspx?showTab=Overview

ERTH’S DINOSAUR ZOO

JANUARY 3 TO 11

Brisbane Entertainment Centre http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=WIGGLES14

THE WIGGLES BIG SHOW - LIVE IN CONCERT

DECEMBER 23

Lyric Theatre, QPAC, Brisbane www.qpac.com.au/event/QB_Nutcracker_14.aspx

QUEENSLAND BALLET - THE NUTCRACKER

DECEMBER 12 TO 20

QUT Gardens Theatre www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au/whatson/2014/peppa-pig.jsp

PEPPA PIG LIVE! TREASURE HUNT

NOVEMBER 27 & 28

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

RAPUNZEL

NOVEMBER 15 TO DECEMBER 21

Lyric Theatre, QPAC. www4.qpac.com.au

THE LION KING

SEPTEMBER 27, 2014 TO JANUARY 25, 2015

TICKETS

Where: Memorial Drive, Eumundi When: Wed 8am – 1:30pm; Sat 7am – 2pm You’ll find original artworks, sculptures, furniture, handmade toys, home wares, skincare as well as cutting edge fashion and jewellery by local designers. All guided by the ethos of “make it, bake it, sew it, grow it”. Details: www.eumundimarkets.com.au

EUMUNDI MARKETS

EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SATURDAY

SPECIAL FEATURE

TOP SWIM TIPS FROM SWIM AUSTRALIA, THE LEADERS IN LEARN-TO-SWIM & WATER SAFETY

GET SET FOR A

SWIMTASTIC SEASON By Jasmin Forsyth,

Swim Australia Media Manager

WITH OVER 35,000KM OF COASTLINE, AS WELL AS ENDLESS PRISTINE BEACHES, NATURAL WATERWAYS, BACKYARD POOLS AND PUBLIC AQUATIC PLAYGROUNDS, IT’S NO WONDER AUSSIE KIDS ARE BORN WATER BABIES. But knowing how to swim properly is a learned skill and can only come from ongoing water education, practice and parent participation from a young age. As the parent body to over 600 registered swim schools located across the country, Swim Australia are the leaders in learn-to-swim and water safety. They encourage parents to enrol children in swimming lessons from as young as four months; enough time to allow the infant’s immune system to strengthen and bonding to occur with the primary caretaker. “As the child progresses through the levels, the experience can help strengthen the bond between parent and child and can enhance a child’s concentration, behaviour and physical coordination as they develop new skills and learn new abilities,” says Swim Australia CEO Ross Gage. “In turn their confidence should improve, which is wonderful for their wellbeing as they grow up, interact with others and face new challenges,” Mr Gage adds. To avoid negative associations, the industry leaders insist children should never be forced into lessons, especially if they are genuinely afraid of the water. Informal water play can be a great way to kickstart the process, however, through supervised bath time with toys, splashing in a backyard sprinkler or through gradual one-on-one play pool sessions. “Swimming should be about having sensible fun, first and foremost. However, it is a necessary and potentially life saving skill, so is an ability that should be formally learned as soon as possible, under the guidance of a qualified teacher and a swim

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

school registered with Swim Australia,” says Mr Gage. By three years of age, children who have kept up their swimming lessons from a young age should be able to perform certain life saving skills, such as: • • • • • •

Returning to the wall if they should fall in Climbing out from a pool ledge Swimming up to five metres Kicking with a kickboard Using basic arm stroke movements Possessing a general understanding of water safety rules such as never swimming without an adult.

But sadly, accidental childhood drowning claims a greater number of young Australian lives than any other trauma. In 2012/2013, 40 children between the ages of 0 and 14 drowned in Australian waterways; 31 were under five years old. Summer proves the nation’s peak drowning period. However, not every drowning is fatal; one quarter of children admitted to hospital following a non-fatal drowning will be left with a brain injury resulting in lifelong disabilities. But the industry experts insist drowning can be prevented. By applying their unique 'Energy Australia SwimSAFER "Layers of Protection"', Swim Australia claim drowning incidents can be avoided simply by following four easy steps (see over page). By applying the four layers together, the philosophy works that if one layer fails, the remaining active layers will kick in and potentially save a child's life.

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

For just $65, get your pool checked and ready for the warmer weather. Your pool and water health check includes an equipment check, water balance test and recommendations on how to keep your pool safe and healthy all year round. Book your poolside service today with your local Poolwerx team by giving us a call on 1800 009 000 or visiting our website.

000 9 0 0 0 0 8 1 au . m o c . x r e w l www.poo TM

proudly supports www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

T&C’s – Green pools excluded, excludes chemicals. Expires 31/12/14.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

SPECIAL FEATURE

SWIM AUSTRALIA'S ENERGYAUSTRALIA SWIMSAFER "LAYERS OF PROTECTION"

BE AWARE: DON’T LET THE KIDS OUT OF YOUR SIGHT. This is fundamental and supervision should be carried out by a responsible adult. All nonswimmers and children under five must be supervised within arm’s reach.

BE SECURE: KEEP FENCES AND GATES LOCKED UP TIGHT. Pool fences and gates need to be regularly inspected, maintained and meet government requirements. Objects and potential climbing aids like pot plants and chairs need to be removed.

BE CONFIDENT: LEARN TO SWIM AND HOW TO GET TO SAFETY. Practicing water safety skills provides another layer of protection but should never be substituted for proper supervision and barriers.

Teaching your kids to swim isn’t just a smart decision – recent world first research has proven regular and ongoing pool practice from a young age can actually make your kids smarter. Results were recently published from a four-year study performed by Griffith Institute for Educational Research and part funded by Swim Australia in which around 7,000 parents of children aged five years and under from Australia, New Zealand and the US were surveyed. Griffith University lead-researcher Professor Robyn Jorgensen says many results exceeded expectations and showed swimming children had an advantage when starting school. “Children who had learned how to swim from a young age were anywhere from six to 15 months ahead of the normal population, when it came to cognitive skills, problem solving in mathematics, counting, language and following instructions,” says Professor Jorgensen. Mr Gage adds, “For a long time we’ve understood the benefits of swimming – physically, emotionally, socially – but we are very excited to finally see the facts in black and white … swimming kids are safer, smarter and stronger kids.” Swim Australia insist even children who know how to swim should never be left unaccompanied without an adult while in or around water – including a pool, the beach, river, dam, a bucket of water, animal water trough, irrigation channel or stream. With the peak swimming period now upon us, families must ask themselves whether they are swim season ready.

SUMMER POOL CARE TIPS TO BRING YOUR POOL OUT OF HIBERNATION With the start of the warmer weather, it’s time to get your pool into tiptop condition to ensure it is safe and healthy to swim in. Poolwerx offers the following tips to bring your pool out of hibernation and set for summer. Check all pool equipment is running properly

BE PREPARED: ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN IN CASE OF EMERGENCY. Check the pool and other waterways first if a child is missing, then inspect bedrooms, cupboards, etc. Ensure your resuscitation skills are up-to-date and permanently display at least one resuscitation or CPR chart in the pool area.

“No matter a child’s swimming ability, any time spent off or away from the water – for example over winter – could affect their capacity to stay afloat, swim and survive after jumping back in for the first time come summer,” Mr Gage says. “If your child – regardless of their age – didn’t swim during the cooler months, then there’s a good chance they will have lost their touch for the water; you simply can’t ever assume they’ll be right, or become complacent, when children and water are combined,” adds Mr Gage. While year-round swimming classes are advised, ‘booster blocks’, ‘intensity weeks’, ‘accelerator programs’ or even holiday swimming classes are a fantastic way to help kids catch up on their swimming skills, and quickly prepare them for the season ahead. “Booster blocks promote more regular swimming classes across a short period of time. Unlike regular swimming lessons where kids are exposed to one session a week, the booster blocks provide up to five lessons in one week. They have the potential to significantly improve a child’s confidence, skill and performance in a short time frame,” Mr Gage says. Be aware that drowning hazards can surface almost anywhere water exists. For an inexperienced swimmer or infant a few inches of water left exposed in or around the family home could also prove a potential drowning death trap. To help prevent a drowning disaster in and around your home, ensure: • Wading pools or spas are gated or securely closed • Nappy buckets filled with water are kept elevated or have a lid • Drink and ice buckets are tightly closed or out of reach • Dog bowls are kept shallow and away from children or replaced with animal specific water bubblers • Bird baths are elevated • Water features have a wire mesh above the water line • Livestock water containers or troughs are child restricted • Toilets have a self-closing or fitted safety lid.

Ensure the pH level is within a healthy range

Although it may take a few minutes, proper preparation is the key to a successful and safer swimming season.

Make sure chlorine levels are adequate to destroy all disease-causing germs. Even though your pool may look clean, there could be a few bugs in there if it hasn’t been maintained over winter

SWIMMING – IT’S NOT JUST A LIFE SAVING SKILL, IT’S A SKILL FOR LIFE!

Vacuum and skim the pool regularly Cut costs and energy consumption by switching to an energy efficient pool pump Make sure all pool chemicals are stored securely, out of view and reach of children

For further information on how to SwimSAFER no matter the season, please check out the Swim Australia website at www.swimaustralia.org.au.

Organise a regular professional check up. ForKids more information about pool care contact Poolwerx on 1800 009 000 38 on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 or visit their website www.poolwerx.com.au

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www.bellagrace.com.au NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

BABIES

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y ba b

e and texture t s a t to

Int

Starting solids By Maxine Arthur

BABIES ARE ADEPT AT LETTING US KNOW WHAT THEY WANT. IF YOU NOTICE YOUR BABY WATCHING YOU EAT OR REACHING FOR WHAT’S ON YOUR PLATE HE’S PROBABLY READY TO TRY SOLID FOOD. COMMON SENSE, BACKED BY EXPERT ADVICE, WILL HELP YOU CONFIDENTLY MOVE YOUR BABY FROM BREAST MILK OR FORMULA FEEDING ONLY TO A VARIED AND HEALTHY DIET OF FAMILY FOODS BY 12 MONTHS.

WHEN TO START SOLIDS AND WHY Australia's National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for around the first six months and then for breastfeeding to continue alongside complementary foods for one year or longer if desired. “Breastfeeding provides sufficient nutrients until around the age of six months for most infants. There is almost universal agreement that solids should not be started before the age of four months and that they should not be delayed much beyond the age of six months.” Introducing solid foods too early can burden an immature digestive system, increase the risk of food allergies and impair the maternal milk supply. There is also evidence that introducing solid foods before the baby is developmentally ready may be counterproductive. If the tongue extrusion reflex (pushing the tongue out to prevent choking) is still strong, the baby will reject the spoon. According to the NHMRC, “The mother might then feel that the infant is rejecting the food, when in fact it is rejecting the object placed in its mouth. Early introduction of foods does not lead to earlier loss of the tongue extrusion reflex; it just prolongs the length of introduction. Delaying the introduction of solids until six months will considerably shorten this period.” On the other hand, introducing solid foods too late can also cause problems. After six months, breast milk (or infant formula) alone provides insufficient nutrition for baby. Iron and zinc levels in particular may drop and immune protection be compromised. At around six months, your baby is ready to learn to eat, to experience new tastes and textures in food, to develop his teeth and jaws and build the motor skills needed for speech. If your baby has developed good head and neck control and can sit upright when supported, shows an interest in what others are eating and opens his mouth when you offer food on a spoon, it’s time to give solids a go.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

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BABIES

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD Emily Dupuche, Melbourne mother of three and author of a newlypublished book, Food Babies Love (A guide to introducing your baby to solids), is passionate about the importance of feeding your baby fresh home-cooked food. “Research shows that by introducing a wide variety of tastes, colour and textures to babies before the age of 12 months, they will go on to enjoy a wider variety of foods throughout childhood and into adulthood.”

Food Babies Love by Emily Dupuche, RRP $29.99, is available now from all good bookstores. It is full of simple recipes, tips and advice about feeding young children. For more information go to www.foodbabieslove.com.au

Emily urges mums to, “Serve meals with flavour. Babies do not like bland food.” She suggests flavouring food with fresh herbs and gentler spices. Occasional use of commercial baby food may be handy in an emergency or when travelling but, as always, “fresh is best”. Emily says, “As an advocate of fresh nutritious meals I’m not a fan of ‘squeezies’ and jars”. “Although convenient, they are not doing your baby or your wallet any favours; • • • • •

The extreme heat treatment they undergo to make them shelf stable KILLS the goodness. They taste really ordinary. They offer your baby no sensory stimulation. It’s easy to spend approx. $65 per week on squeeze pouches! Consistent use of pouches causes oral developmental issues.”

Many mums start with baby rice cereal because it is iron-rich and smooth in texture. Try mixing it with a little of mother’s milk, formula or cooled boiled water. Lightly steamed vegetables such as zucchini, sweet potato, pumpkin and carrot, and fruit such as avocado, banana, pear, melon and cooked apple make healthy purees. Puree with a stick mixer or simply mash with a fork. There is no need to add salt, sugar or honey. Offer baby finger foods like cooked vegetable pieces such as broccoli spears and soft bread crusts from around eight to nine months. From nine months, full fat dairy products like yoghurt, custard, grated cheese and cottage cheese can be added to baby’s meals. By 12 months, infants can be eating most of what the family eats. The NHMRC guidelines say that the most important micronutrient deficiency seen in Australia is iron, so be sure to include small amounts of iron-rich foods such as meat, poultry and fish from the start. Remember that breast milk or infant formula is baby’s most important source of nutrition for the first 12 months. Solids are complementary feeding only. Cooled boiled water is the only other fluid suitable for infants under 12 months. Cow’s milk should not be given as a drink until 12 months.

Research shows that by introducing a wide variety of tastes, colour and textures to babies before the age of 12 months, they will go on to enjoy a wider variety of foods throughout childhood and into adulthood.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

QUICK CHICKEN AND MUSHROOM RISOTTO Age: third month of eating, plus Suitable for freezing Makes: 1 serve Prep time: 1 minute Cooking time: 4 minutes ¼ cup rice flakes* ½ cup salt-reduced chicken stock 50 g chicken mince (or ½ chicken tenderloin, finely chopped) 3 button mushrooms, finely chopped 2 teaspoons parmesan or tasty cheese, grated 1-2 teaspoons ricotta cheese (optional) Chopped fresh parsley leaves *Available in the health food section of your supermarket or specialty health food stores. This cheat’s risotto is ready in 5 minutes flat. It’s great for young babies getting used to new flavours and textures and a terrific speedy standby for toddlers. I love this dish as it’s so easy to prepare and my kids love it! Place all the ingredients except the cheeses in a saucepan and simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring regularly to break up the chicken mince. The rice flakes will soften and thicken to a porridge-like consistency. Add the cheeses and stir to combine. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley for colour and freshness and allow to cool before serving. For tasty variations on this dish, cook the rice flakes and stock as per above and: • Replace the mushrooms with ¼ cup mashed pumpkin (steamed or roasted) to make a delicious pumpkin risotto • Add ¼ cup roasted pumpkin and a cube of pear puree to the same quantity of rice flakes and cheeses to make a pumpkin and pear risotto • Add ¼ cup cooked green peas and a few baby spinach leaves, washed and chopped, to make a green risotto • Replace the chicken mince with finely chopped roast chicken (or any cooked chicken) and keep the cheeses for another tasty alternative. TIP: Ricotta cheese is a great binding agent. Not only does it add a lovely mild flavour, it helps bind the risotto together on the spoon – a blessing for little people attempting to feed themselves.

RED LENTIL DHAL Age: second month of eating, plus Suitable for freezing Makes: 2 cups Prep time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes ½ butternut pumpkin, peeled and diced into 2 cm pieces* 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons butter ½ small onion, finely diced 1 garlic clove, minced ¼ teaspoon ground coriander ¼ teaspoon ground cumin ½ cup red lentils 1 ½ cups salt-reduced chicken or veggie stock Plain full-fat yoghurt 1 tablespoon chopped fresh coriander leaves *You don’t need all of this but leftovers can be used as finger food. I’ve always loved dhal. It’s tasty, filling and good for you. This dish is so simple to make and super delicious. For older children, it’s great served with warm roti bread, which is readily available from most supermarkets. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line an oven tray with baking paper. Toss the pumpkin in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place on the baking tray and roast for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check the pumpkin is soft all the way through before removing from the oven. To make the dhal, heat a saucepan over medium heat. Add the remaining oil and the butter and sauté the onion for 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for a further minute. Add the ground spices and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the lentils and stock and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and mushy. Add the chopped coriander. Mash ¾ cup of roasted pumpkin pieces with a fork and stir into the cooked lentils until well combined. Puree if required or leave as is. Serve warm with a dollop of yoghurt stirred through and some fresh coriander leaves as a garnish. TIP: This dish will take you a long way – just adjust the spice levels as your baby grows.

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

BABIES

HOW TO BEGIN The Australian Breastfeeding Association suggests the following approach: • • • • • •

•

Make sure baby is sitting upright in a high chair or your lap. Eating is a social occasion so try to have at least one other family member eat at the same time as baby even if it is only you. Try offering food from your own plate. Baby may feel that eating food from your plate is ‘safer’ and be willing to try it. Respect your baby’s tastes. If he doesn’t seem to like a food, leave it for a few days and try again. Some babies are quite happy to be spoon fed, although soon they will want to try a spoon of their own. Some mothers begin with purees, but if your baby is about six months, these will only be needed for a very short time. Some babies want only finger foods. It is important for babies to begin to chew soft foods from about seven months. However you start, be prepared for mess, at least for a while. This is all part of your baby learning a new skill. Be patient.

Start with a small amount (one or two teaspoons). Increase to two or three tablespoons and then to three meals a day at your baby’s pace. Small amounts of food can be stored in ice cube trays and thawed as needed. As far as possible, try to adapt family meals rather than prepare separate meals for baby. You can puree or mash baby’s portion as needed.

WHAT ABOUT ALLERGIES? Paediatric general practitioner Dr Scott Parsons offers the following advice on his website www.childhealth.com.au:

As far as possible, try to adapt family meals rather than prepare separate meals for baby. You can puree or mash baby’s portion as needed.

“In the past it was advised to avoid potentially allergic foods, such as egg white, peanuts and tree nuts. However this advice has no scientific basis. In fact some studies have suggested that early introduction of such foods may in fact induce a tolerance. Even if a sibling is allergic there is only 7% chance that this will have been passed on. The advice is to try a small amount on the lips, such as smooth peanut butter, or scrambled eggs, then next time a small taste and slowly increase amounts. If there is a reaction it will be obvious and immediate, but never life threatening. Reactions include rash around mouth, slight swelling of lips and immediate spitting or even vomiting. In this instance do not repeat giving the particular food. If there is a rash, take a photo and consult with your local GP.”

EVERY CHILD IS DIFFERENT Jess and Richard are parents to Brandon, 6, and Taylor, 2. Jess started Brandon on solids at five months. “As Brandon was my first child I had no idea where to start when it came to solids. Mum suggested that I try him on rice cereal. The first few times, he ate no more than a teaspoon. I remember sitting on the floor of the kitchen with Brandon in a booster seat pushed up against the wall because we did not have a high chair and hoping that he would not spit his Farex all over my work clothes.” “Brandon began to watch us very intently when we ate and he started to mimic chewing. It also seemed he was not content after

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

Some ideas for foods (adapted from the Australian Breastfeeding Association website). The best food for your baby to have at a particular meal is what you are preparing for the rest of the family, adapted as needed.

FRUIT: Grated apple or other fruit; piece of banana or ripe avocado; pieces of melon or pawpaw (without seeds); an orange quarter, minus peel and seeds; stone fruit with stone removed; peeled and cored apple or pear.

VEGETABLES:

Cooked green stringless beans; cooked broccoli or cauliflower floret; fingers of cooked potato, carrot or other vegetable; grated raw carrot. If baby has teeth, try a piece of raw celery or other salad vegetables.

FISH: Homemade fish fingers or fish cakes; flakes of cooked fish with every bone removed. MEAT OR ALTERNATIVE: A small amount of meat on a safe bone, for example, chicken leg bone, lamb chop; rissoles or slices of homemade meat loaf; firm tofu cooked in long thin slices.

BREAD:

White ‘high-fibre’ or wholemeal (note that the type of fibre in wholemeal bread can be a little harsh on the digestive system of a baby under nine months); homemade rusks (bake thick slices or crusts in a very slow oven until they are quite crisp and dry); toast, plain, buttered, or sometimes use a spread thinly; sandwiches.

PASTA: Boiled, cooled, pasta shapes, with meat/vegetables from a casserole. EGGS: Pieces of hard-boiled egg yolk or whole egg; strips of omelette. MILK PRODUCTS: Fingers of cheese; grated cheese; yoghurt. Very soft cheeses and custard can be eaten by using other finger foods as dippers.

his bottles any more. I started feeding him around three teaspoons of puree and Farex/Weetbix after his morning bottle. Once he started eating a whole Weetbix with pureed fruit we stopped giving him a morning bottle. This was around eight months.” “A close friend of mine told me that as long as you start your child on vegetables as soon as they start solids, they would grow up enjoying them. It was because of this advice that Brandon was given very little fruit and once I was confident with his chewing action he was taken off purees and given mashed vegies instead. Now both my kids will take vegies over fruit any day of the week. They also both love to have raw vegies as snacks now. By the time Brandon was eight months old I had become very tired of cooking separate food for him and just started giving him what we were eating. If it was things like spaghetti bolognaise, I would use a stick blender on Brandon’s serve to make it the right consistency for him and just chop the pasta into smaller pieces.” “When my second child, Taylor, started solids it was a totally different experience. When Taylor was on bottles she would throw up more than she kept down at each feed and I was not looking forward to starting solids. One day she just grabbed some food off my plate and started to suck and gnaw at it. She was four months old. From that day on we started feeding her when we sat down for meals. She never really had purees; it was all mashed food. Taylor was eight months when we stopped bottles as she could now hold a sipper cup and was happy to drink her formula from that.” “One thing that has worked for both my children has been giving them their own spoon to play with while feeding. Yes, it does create more mess but in the long run it helps them learn and can keep them interested in the meal for longer.”

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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TEENS

PARENTING TEENS by Dr Kelly Bowers Psychologist, Youthrive Integrated Therapy Services

PARENTING ADOLESCENT CHILDREN IS ARGUABLY ONE OF LIFE’S MOST DIFFICULT CHALLENGES. LET’S BE HONEST; IT TESTS YOUR PATIENCE, NEGOTIATION SKILLS AND MAY EVEN TEST THE STRENGTH OF YOUR FAMILY’S RELATIONSHIP AT TIMES. While it is recognized that adolescence is a time for change, the extent to which this change occurs is often underestimated. While adolescents themselves experience the biggest transformation, change also occurs for the parents of adolescents and the wider family unit. As with any degree of change, it is reasonable to expect that conflict may occur until a new sense of balance is achieved. While it is often said that this is a natural process that adolescents and their families will eventually grow out of, there are a number of less obvious factors that parents and families should be aware of in order to help the road seem a little smoother.

PUTTING CHANGE INTO PERSPECTIVE While physical and hormonal changes are well documented during puberty, changes in adolescent thinking styles are more commonly overlooked. As the brain develops, adolescents begin to think about themselves and the world around them. First of all, they develop an ability to build critical thinking skills. In this sense, adolescents become more aware of the impact of their thoughts and how thoughts might influence their behaviour. Improvements in reasoning and logic also occur, in addition to an increased ability to consider other possibilities or hypothetical scenarios. As these changes take place, adolescents begin to see the world differently. They start questioning why things are done the way they are, rather than simply accepting them as absolute.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

Any change in thinking is in itself a difficult adjustment to make. As adolescents become more aware of their own thoughts, they naturally begin to feel as though their thoughts are unique and special. At least once or twice in their parenting years, almost all parents would have heard their adolescent child say, “You don’t know how this feels”. However, within these newly formed thought processes adolescents often make the common mistake that everything that they do or say is the focus of everyone else’s attention. This is when adolescents start experiencing an increase in self-consciousness, which in turn motivates them to begin following a greater influence from their peers as opposed to their family. This is an important process in the development of independence, self-assurance and individual identity as the adolescent ‘prepares to launch’ into adult life. Nonetheless, it can often be difficult for families to understand that their once dependent child is no longer seeking their support and would rather do things for themselves or with others. As the adolescent thinking style changes they become more aware of their rights and responsibilities within the family unit. They gradually gain more power within the parent-child relationship, increase their assertiveness and begin to develop their negotiating skills. Naturally, this may cause disruption to the family’s sense of balance, and changes in family dynamics, rules or routines may also occur. This is rarely a smooth process and regular confrontations are likely to ensue.

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

TEENS

THE SOURCE OF CONFLICT Conflict during the adolescent years is inevitable. Research suggests that it peaks when the adolescent is between 13 and 14 years of age, although it is likely to persist throughout the duration of adolescence. It is important to note that parent-adolescent conflict is not simply due to a ‘generation gap’. Research shows that parents and adolescents often share the same core values (e.g. ethics, hard work, personal characteristics, religious beliefs etc.), and that conflict is less likely to be in regard to these principles. However, parents and adolescents are more likely to experience a difference in personal taste (e.g. dress style, music, leisure activities), particularly as the young person begins to follow the influence of their peer group. More often than not, these differences in personal opinion are likely to be the cause of conflict. Parents are more likely to view behaviours as being right or wrong in regards to tradition or routine as opposed to those in a moral sense. Nonetheless, it is also important to note that the definition as to whether an issue is one of moral concern or one of personal choice may often be the cause of an argument in itself. Parents and their adolescents often define issues of contention differently; however this does not mean that the adolescent child no longer holds the same set of ideals as their parents. Personality factors should not be overlooked either. It is true that the behaviour of one family member can influence the behaviour of another. An adolescent who is impulsive and argumentative may evoke similar reactions from their parents and vice versa, however reasons for conflict should not be limited to factors related to family beliefs or dynamics. Other family stressors that are independent of adolescence may also impact on family harmony. Examples of these include family financial stress, external social pressures (such as the beliefs of extended family members) and parental mental health.

WHAT DO ADOLESCENT CHILDREN NEED FROM THEIR PARENTS? This can be a difficult one to figure out. During the adolescent years teenagers may feel as though they are neither here nor there – they are no longer a child, but not yet an adult. They require less nurturing and protection than they have previously received from their parents, but require a greater level of support, guidance and direction, while they are simultaneously trying to achieve a sense of independence and autonomy. Parenting styles play a large part of how a balance between these two notions is achieved. Research from Diana Baumrind has identified two aspects of parenting that determine a parenting style. These are parental responsiveness and parental demandingness. Parental responsiveness refers to the degree in which parents accept, support and guide their child’s thoughts and behaviours. Parental demandingness on the other hand refers to the expectations and demands that a parent places on their child in relation to the demonstration of mature and responsible behaviour. Parenting style and the way in which adolescents respond can be determined by the way in which parents behave across both of these scales. A parenting style which achieves a balance between these two aspects (i.e. is both responsive to the child’s needs, yet enforces consistent behavioural expectations and standards) is considered the ideal approach. Think of this as being warm but firm. A large body of research has shown that children who are reared by this parenting style are often more psychologically and socially mature than their peers who may have been raised in other styles, regardless of culture. They tend to be more responsible and more self-assured.

During what may seem like a never-ending battle, it is important to keep in mind that the natural distancing between parents and teenagers during adolescence is typically temporary. Adolescents may experience an increase in the need for privacy and a decrease in the need for physical affection, but rest assured, within secure families the underlying love and affection between family members remains intact.

Within secure families the underlying love and affection between family members remains intact.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

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TEENS

TIPS FOR PARENTS The best tool that parents have in raising adolescents is their own experiences. Think back to when you were an adolescent. What did the world seem like to you? What was the most important thing to you during that time? How did you want/expect your parents to react? By considering your answers in relation to your adolescent, you may gain a little more insight into their point of view. Almost all adolescents will tell you that the most important thing to them is the feeling that they have been heard. The following tips will hopefully promote opportunities for adolescents to experience just that. • RESPECT. RESPECT. RESPECT. Showing respect to others often results in them showing respect in return. Show your adolescent the kind of respect that you would like them to offer you. Respect is something that all people seek no matter what stage of life. It is hard to expect adolescents to develop into responsible young adults if they do not have someone to model themselves upon. Often we look at sports stars or celebrities as role models, however the truth is that the most important and influential role models are within the family unit.

• ALLOW OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUR ADOLESCENT CHILD TO DEMONSTRATE THEIR INDEPENDENCE. This may mean trying to find a balance between placing boundaries on particular behaviours and entrusting your adolescent with others that requires a degree of responsibility. But be sure that the tasks that you set are consistent with your child’s ability level to increase the likelihood of success. Positive outcomes in these situations are likely to foster individual motivation to complete a similar behaviour again in the future.

• ENGAGE IN FREQUENT OPEN DISCUSSIONS. About your child’s behaviour and why you are enforcing a particular rule or guideline. Avoid simply saying no without offering an explanation. Give yourself time to prepare what you are going to say if needed. Allow your adolescent child the opportunity to understand your point of view and why you have made the decision that you have come to. Provide explanations for the decisions that you make and communicate them clearly with your child. Allow your child the opportunity to express their opinions.

• EXPECT YOURSELF TO MAKE MISTAKES. Try not to dwell too much on them. Have you ever met the perfect parent? The adolescent years are often described as the most difficult period of parenting. Be sure to look out for signs of stress or anger for both yourself and your partner. If you do react poorly in a particular instance, then don’t be afraid to use the experience as a teaching tool. Discuss with your adolescent that even adults make mistakes from time to time. Promote problem-solving skills in these instances so that your adolescent may learn to cope independently with similar difficulties in an appropriate manner.

• ASK QUESTIONS WITHOUT BLAME. Often when emotions are running high, the way in which we word questions (even the innocent ones) may trigger an escalation of an argument. Avoid questions such as, “Why did you do that?”, and attempt to ask questions that allow your adolescent to provide their side of a story such as, “Can you help me understand what happened?” • PICK YOUR BATTLES. Be willing to negotiate and compromise every now and then on the smaller issues that may be more related to personal choice as opposed to the issues related more closely to family morals or values. Try to only engage in negotiation during periods of calm rather than in the midst of an argument. Where possible, remain patient. Remember the limitations of yourself and your child.

Almost all adolescents will tell you that the most important thing to them is the feeling that they have been heard.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

For parents whose children are yet to reach the adolescent years, consider the fact that parenting adolescents starts with parenting young children. The establishment of warm and secure parentchild attachments in early life is associated with the increased likelihood that those children will be open to their parents’ influence and will share similar values and attitudes in later life.

For additional tips and resources, please visit the Raising Children website at www.raisingchildren.net.au. If you have concerns about the development of your adolescent or are experiencing conflict within the family home, it is recommended that you consult with your GP or make an appointment with Youthrive (www. youthrive.com.au) or a registered psychologist. Psychologists in your area can be found on the Australian Psychological Society website at www.psychology.org.au/findapsychologist

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GOOD HEALTH

for M u By Dr Petra Ladwig,

Gynaecology & IVF Specialist, Sunshine Coast

WHETHER YOU HAVE JUST STARTED YOUR FAMILY OR FINISHED HAVING BABIES THERE IS A BEWILDERING ARRAY OF CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS AVAILABLE. SO HOW DO YOU DECIDE ON THE METHOD THAT IS JUST RIGHT FOR YOU? The choice of contraceptive is based on many factors in an individual including effectiveness, side effects, other health concerns that may influence the risk of particular complications and control of other problems such as acne or heavy periods. Everyone is different, so it is important to discuss your situation and any concerns frankly with your doctor and to understand the way a method works and potential issues. Barrier methods such as condoms and diaphragms offer ease of use and are readily available, however they have a significant failure rate if not correctly used. Condoms offer the additional advantage of protection against sexually transmitted diseases and may be used for that purpose even if other contraception is used for reliability. Hormonal methods include the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) and progesterone only methods. The latter includes pills, implants, injections and intrauterine devices.

Kids on the Coast â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

There are many types of contraceptive pill, however essentially all contain an oestrogen and a progestagen. The variations in relative doses and the actual hormones used may offer different advantages to particular patients. The common side effects of oestrogen are headache, nausea and an increased risk of blood clots. Facial skin discoloration (chloasma) may occur in some patients similar to that seen in pregnancy. Oestrogen-containing compounds should not be used by women at higher risk of clotting (inherited disorders, previous history of clots or severe migraine, smokers over 40), or by those who have had a hormone sensitive cancer (breast) or have liver disease. The common side effects of progestagen are mood change, fluid retention, bloating and weight gain. These are less with some of the newer types of progestagen. Contraceptive pills are highly effective if used correctly. Some medications (anti-epileptics for instance) can alter the metabolism

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

GOOD HEALTH

EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT, SO IT IS IMPORTANT TO DISCUSS YOUR SITUATION AND ANY CONCERNS FRANKLY WITH YOUR DOCTOR AND TO UNDERSTAND THE WAY A METHOD WORKS AND POTENTIAL ISSUES.

and therefore blood levels, so a higher dose pill may be needed. Similarly, antibiotics or severe diarrhoea can decrease absorption and alternate measures may be needed. If concerned, always check with your doctor or pharmacist. While breastfeeding, women are often keen to avoid medication. If the baby is fully breastfed and there are no periods this offers 98% protection in the first six months. However, the first ovulation can occur prior to the first period. Women should consider backup if worried and particularly if they are feeding less often or expressing regularly. Condoms, intrauterine devices or the minipill are suitable. The minipill contains no oestrogen and will not affect milk supply. It works by thickening the cervical mucus and must be taken every day to be effective. Another option is Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DepoProvera), an injectable long acting reversible progestagen-only method which is given every three months. It is very reliable as it removes the need for daily pill use. It contains no oestrogen, making it suitable for women who cannot take this hormone. In common with other progestagen only methods it gives irregular periods and sometimes constant bleeding; with continued use periods often disappear. The high dose increases the risk of side effects, particularly weight gain and mood disturbance, however some women will find this method very effective long term. Once injected it cannot be reversed and needs to wear off. With repeated injections complete reversal may take some time. Implanon is another long acting reversible method presented as a small flexible rod which is inserted under the skin in the upper arm. Removal leads to restoration of normal hormonal function within days. It maintains hormones in a normal range but blocks ovulation. Irregular bleeding is usual with a small number

Kids on the Coast â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

of women having no periods, while troublesome, frequent or prolonged bleeding is seen in up to 10% of women. Intrauterine devices are available in two types and both provide reliable long-term contraception for up to five years. The Mirena contains a low dose of progestagen. It was designed to treat heavy menstrual loss; it lightens periods in most users and they may disappear in up to 20%. A small number of women experience troublesome frequent and/or prolonged bleeding. Systemic side effects are uncommon although a small number of women experience mood change/dysphoria and fluid retention. The copper intrauterine device contains no hormones. Periods will continue on as previously though slightly heavier in most cases. These devices are best suited to women in a stable relationship who have had children although the latter is a relative contraindication. Insertion can be more difficult in nulliparous women. If you have completed your family, sterilisation may be suitable. For men, a vasectomy can be done under local anaesthetic and is a simple procedure performed out of hospital. Follow-up semen analysis after three months is recommended to ensure it has been successful. For women, sterilisation by tubal ligation or Essure requires day surgery in hospital. This involves placing a clip over the fallopian tubes at laparoscopy or blocking the tube with a small coil from the uterine side. These should all be considered permanent and careful counselling is recommended before they are performed. Reversal may be possible and IVF is an option if there is a change of heart. Further information on contraceptive choices can be obtained from your gynaecologist, GP or Family Planning Queensland (www.fpq. com.au). Dr Petra Ladwig is located in Birtinya on the Sunshine Coast with further information on her website www.petraladwig.com.

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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. 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.

By Simone Bell

L for learner I’ve always classified myself as a fairly good mother. You know, I’ve had my moments that certainly wouldn’t earn me any Mother of the Year medals, but aside from a few ‘character building’ stories – told all at once they could possibly mean a knock on my door from DoCS – we’ve reached the ages of 14, 15 and 16 relatively unscathed. I thought three babies were tough. And yes, three toddlers were hard work too. But three teenagers … Hang on, I shall return – the world will simply END if I don’t help Miss 14 find her HAIR WAVER! Crisis averted. Hair waver found. Thank God for that. As we deal with hair wavers, hair straighteners, hair curlers (yes, they are very different appliances), make-up, the upcoming parties, independence, hashtags, Facebook likes, snapchat and boys … my biggest struggle is the thought of my children driving. As Miss 16 recently trotted off to take her driving test, I was secretly a little happy that she didn’t pass the first time. But second time around, she did. And we have shiny yellow plates with a big fat L on them to prove it. Leading up to her second test, we were casually driving from home to do our grocery shopping. Living outside of town means we drive for around 20 minutes before reaching any kind of destination. So we started to talk about road rules – every speed sign, why you slow down on bends, the sneaky country road turns that you need to be ‘extra’ aware of – and how cars flashing lights could mean a speed camera, an accident or cows on the road. All the things a driving instructor may not teach but you learn from experience. I was doing well. I sounded like a responsible, teaching mother. After a while, I could tell her 16-year-old brain was a little sick of responsible mother lectures, and she asked if she could put on some music. As we all love a little car sing-a-long, I was happy to move my brain from thinking about my child behind the wheel of a car. The music was pumped up and we happily sang along in unison at the top of our voices to Carrie Underwood. Gosh, for a moment there, I even felt like I was back at a disco, what with the blue flashing lights behind me and all. Wait … WHAT? Blue. Flashing. Lights. “Do you know why I’ve pulled you over today?” “Ummm, was I speeding????” “Yes.” Okay, back to ‘Responsible Mother School’ for me.

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And there’s lesson number one, Miss 16. Don’t be distracted. Don’t speed. And get driving lessons. NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

ONLY NATURAL

SUNSCREEN IN AUSTRALIA THE REALITY & THE RUMOURS By Danielle Colley THE SLIP, SLOP, SLAP CAMPAIGN WAS LAUNCHED IN 1981, SO MANY OF US HAVE GROWN UP WITH THE MANTRA DRUMMED INTO US: SLIP ON A SHIRT, SLOP ON SUNSCREEN AND SLAP ON A HAT. Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with around 136,000 new skin cancer cases diagnosed each year in Queensland alone. Studies in Australia suggest a stabilisation or slight decline in skin cancer in the under-45 age group. Cancer Council Australia believes this is a consequence of their campaigns urging young people to reduce their UV radiation exposure and improve sun protection. Our shelves are stocked with a bounty of different sun protection products, but with ever-changing technologies are these products actually safe to slop on our skin? With one in five Australian adolescents reporting getting sunburnt on any given summer weekend, we know sunscreen is safer than frying ourselves in the harsh sun for prolonged periods, but choosing the right product can be a minefield. Roll-on, aerosol spray, pump action … oil free, dry touch, repelling – simply applying sunscreen can be confusing enough. While aerosols may seem a fantastic option on a squirming toddler, they not only waste a large amount of expensive product but they spray tiny particles into the air directly around your child’s face that may trigger allergies or asthma. Although the number is higher, SPF50+ offers only marginally better UVB protection than SPF30+, with the former filtering out 98% and the latter 96.7% of harmful rays. “It’s important to remember that SPF50+ is not a suit of armour, and doesn’t equate to an ability to spend any longer in the sun. SPF50+ needs to be applied just as liberally as SPF30+, every two hours,” says Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift. “It’s imperative to reapply sunscreen every two hours – or after sweating, towelling or swimming. We recommend reapplying frequently, as research shows Queenslanders often don’t apply sunscreen correctly at the first application.”

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

Incorrect application explains that awkwardly shaped sunburn under your arm, but thorough application and the correct sun protection factor are only two issues to consider. Another issue is: what is it that we are actually applying to our skin – the largest organ of our body? The active ingredients in sunscreen come in two forms – mineral and chemical filters. Each uses a different mechanism to protect our skin from the sun. The most commonly used sunscreens contain chemical filters. These products typically include a combination of these active ingredients: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. There is evidence that some of these ingredients contain a high level of toxicity for the human body, with dioxybenzone, oxybenzone and octinoxate ranking as the highest according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), as they are the most likely to penetrate the skin thereby not only potentially causing allergies but also disrupting hormone balance and generating free radicals. Active ingredients such as zinc oxide, avobenzone and mexoryl sx are considered to be better options because they have very limited skin penetration and there is no evidence of hormone disruption. The burning question that springs to mind is surely these products have to be safe to be on the shelves? National Toxics Network coordinator Joanna Immig believes that we should not just take it for granted that sunscreens are a safe product for ourselves or our children. “There are so many things out there that we think are safe for children, or which an authority has checked and ticked off, that unfortunately turn out not to be. I

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It’s important for parents to be wary about the products that they’re choosing and to make sure they’ve satisfied themselves that they’re using the safest products.

think it’s important for parents to be wary about the products that they’re choosing and to make sure they’ve satisfied themselves that they’re using the safest products,” says Joanna. What is deemed safe at one time may be discovered unsafe later. PABA was introduced into sunscreens in the 1970s, however it was discovered to cause increased sensitivity and allergic reactions. More concerning, however, were studies that showed PABA might damage DNA. In the late 1990s, University of Oxford researcher Dr John Knowland reported on studies that showed when DNA was added to a chemical sunscreen and exposed to sunlight, the sunscreen broke down, releasing free radicals that could damage the DNA. Results such as these raised the concern that PABA could actually encourage the formation of cancerous cells in the skin. PABA can still be found in some sunscreens, although very few. “The big concern and the big unknown at the moment is nanotechnology,” explains Joanna, “because we don’t have specific laws in Australia that make manufacturers disclose whether there is nanotechnology or not, so it’s hard for people to make informed decisions.” Nanotechnology is a new technological platform that takes a molecule and applies the technology to it thereby altering the molecular structure. For instance, taking our famous face paint of surfers – zinc – and making it invisible. “Zinc oxide in and of itself is not a bad chemical and can be used effectively as blockout, but when you apply nanotechnology to it, it becomes a whole different substance and the problem with it is then it does begin to penetrate into cells and go into the body,” says Joanna.

“In terms of sunscreen, it is a big concern because it’s a product that we put directly on our skin so that’s an exposure and we don’t know what the consequences of that are going to be to anyone,” explains Joanna. “That’s just one thing, so basically I would be advising parents to make sure they’re choosing the sunscreen that offers the protection that they need, because they’re relying on it, but to dig a little deeper and look at the actual ingredients to make sure that they’re getting one that’s as safe as possible for children.” Cancer Council Queensland advises that the relevant authorities have researched these products and ingredients. “The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) routinely monitors and tests the safety of sunscreens and has found no evidence that sunscreens containing nanoparticles pose any risk,” clarifies Katie. “Available evidence suggests that nanoparticles used in sunscreens do not pose a risk to health. In fact, long-term studies of sunscreen use in Australia have found no harmful effects of regular use.” While there are some advocates for naturally occurring sunscreens in certain everyday substances there is not a lot of supporting evidence that they are effective. Goji berries are said to prevent free radical damage caused by sun exposure, and it is believed that the application and consumption of coconut oil can provide up to SPF 4 on the skin, but the fact is, we are talking about stopping sun cancers and melanomas and in Australia we can’t afford to mess around.

Nanotechnology is being applied to many things from food packaging to pharmaceutical drugs to clothing, but we just don’t know yet if there are going to be implications.

According to Cancer Council Australia, from 1982 to 2010 melanoma diagnoses increased by around 60%, however it’s hard to know if this is due to an actual increase in the disease or we’ve become better at detecting it. Exposure to sunlight at high levels in childhood increases the risk of melanoma, and the very nature of childhood means children get the most sun exposure. It’s imperative we do our best to protect young skin from the sun’s rays.

Drawing on the best available evidence, Cancer Council Australia’s current assessment is that nanoparticulates used in sunscreens do not pose a risk. What is clear is the benefit of preventing sunburn and therefore skin cancer, especially in young children.

Cancer Council Australia’s CEO Professor Ian Olver recommends a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for children. “It’s important to be prepared, because sunscreen should be applied 15–20 minutes before heading out and reapplication

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

ONLY NATURAL

Get SunSmart and App Happy! Smartphones are fast becoming the new weapon in the fight against skin cancer with Cancer Council’s SunSmart app for iPhone and Android available for free download. The SunSmart app is designed to boost sun protective behaviour among Australians. It allows users to track UV levels in real time, wherever they are in the country, includes advice on applying sunscreen and sets the record straight on vitamin D myths too!

SLIP, SLOP, SLAP, SEEK AND SLIDE every two hours is key,” advises Professor Olver. “Infants benefit most from physical sun protection – this means shade, clothing and broad brimmed hats should be your go-to options. If babies are kept out of the sun and well protected by these methods, sunscreen is only needed occasionally on small areas of their skin.” Burning can occur in as little as 15 minutes, even on cold and overcast days, and sun exposure that does not result in burning still increases the risk of skin cancer. We need a plan for sun protection that goes beyond just sunscreen, so it’s important to remain vigilant about staying SunSmart. The Cancer Council’s SunSmart message recommends five sun protective behaviours: Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide. This adds another two to our childhood mantra and suggests you seek shade and slide on some sunglasses to protect your eyes. Wearing clothing that covers as much skin as possible and fabrics that have a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating are the best for children.

Rather than our be all and end all, sunscreen should be used as only one line of defence. Aim to minimise time spent outside during the middle of the day in summer when UV levels are at their highest. This isn’t always possible, so protective clothing and hats, sunglasses and seeking shade should all be combined with proper sunscreen use in order to keep our children safe and our skin happy.

BE INFORMED!

For more information on how to be SunSmart, visit the Cancer Council Queensland website www.cancerqld.org.au For information about the active ingredients in sunscreens, visit the National Toxics Network website at www.ntn.org.au and the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website www.ewg.org. To explore the range of natural sunscreens available in Australia, visit your local natural or organic food store or visit www.nourishedlife.com.au.

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Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

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COAST LIFE

Coast Life shares exciting products and services by 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 ventures by taking a look at what they’ve got to offer. And if you’ve got a business you want to spread the word on, let us know!

TEEPEA KIDS BOUTIQUE Ph: 5455 3890 Facebook: Teepea Kids

EZY KIDS PARTIES Ph: 1300 118 840 www.ezykidsparties.com.au | www.childrenspartysupplies.com.au Children’s Party Supplies is a Sunshine Coast-based online shop, with a huge range of invitations, tableware, decorations, accessories, party bags and favours, party games and craft. If it’s online, it’s in stock. Order today, and it’s shipped tomorrow, or you can collect to save on postage. If you need an entertainer, cake or catering, Ezy Kids Parties has over 20 themes to choose from. They do the lot so you can enjoy yourself too!

Teepea has been created with love by a local mum of two crazy boys! It is the result of one mum’s many hours spent online, searching, buying and trying in a quest to find kids clothing and homewares in the coolest designs, of the highest quality, for the rad-est kids! Home of super cool kids stuff you can see, try and buy locally!

KUDDLY KIDS Ph: 5445 2486 www.kuddlykids.com.au

AMY BECCARI DANCE STUDIOS Ph: 0411 801 144 | www.amybeccaridancestudios.com.au Dance is not only fun, it provides kids with a wide range of skills including enhanced flexibility, coordination, strength and discipline. Classes at ABDS are run by passionate and qualified teachers for children 3 years and over, including ballet, tap, jazz/funk, contemporary, acro and performance teams. Take advantage of free trial lessons - enrolments open for 2015 now.

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Horse Riding Camps are a great way for your child to enjoy a week of outdoor fun! For ages 6yrs - teens. Children are allocated their own horse to suit their riding ability. Camp includes: arena lessons, trail rides twice a day, learning to keep and care for your pony, a gymkhana and fun night activities. 7 Day Camps every week in the December/January holidays. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Kuddly Kids on Buderim children's shop specialising in clothing, gifts and toys for boys and girls newborn to size 12. Book your instore birthday party with Frozen in Fairyland or Fairyland Fun for ages 4 plus. Visit our Facebook page Fairyland Fun Wonderland Parties for what's new and all of the party information. Llike and share to go in the draw to win a great prize!.

VEGIE PATCH www.vegiepatch.net.au

‘Making Eating Well Easier’ is the mantra of local small business Vegie Patch who provide the very best premium fruit and vegies to households here on the coast. With seasonal boxes starting at just $20 including free delivery, Vegie Patch says it’s time to support our local farmers. Personal attention, complimentary recipe cards for your box and special requests included. NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

DESTINATION

Bali with kids

S BE

By Rebecca Perry

Bali is undoubtedly one of the best places to travel to as a family. The Balinese people adore children, the culture is fascinating, food is cheap and fabulous, and there is a style of holiday to suit all budgets, from resorts to family-run guesthouses. Bali worked its magic on our three children so much that after our first trip we’ve had to go back every year. As they’ve grown, our kids have appreciated different things about Bali. Here are the top picks from our kids at different ages.

Under six years

This age group is easy to please in Bali. Our under-sixes just wanted to swim, play with adoring staff, feed fish in all the fishponds and eat unlimited cheap ice-creams. Zoos are a winner too: although the infrastructure looks a bit tired to adults, the Bali Zoo and the Bali Butterfly Park were big hits with this age. Our kids begged to go back to Bali Safari and Marine Park. Seeing the animals from a safari bus rather than by foot is a big plus if you have a toddler, and the park (rather oddly, but who cares) includes a water park and children’s rides.

Six to ten years

This age group gets a lot out of exploring the Balinese culture with you. Pondok Pecak Library in Ubud runs classes in woodcarving, fruit carving, Balinese dance, kite making and playing the traditional gamelan instrument. Our kids also painted traditional masks and made their own silver jewellery in Ubud. You’ll find staff everywhere will be delighted to teach your children to make local handicrafts. A highlight for our kids was catching frogs and surprising flocks of ducks on walks through the rice fields. Once they’ve finished all that, there is always the beach or hotel pool. Our kids begged to go back to Waterbom. Even though we’re spoiled by the proximity of the Gold Coast theme parks, it’s hard to miss this large, well-groomed waterslide park in Kuta. With a range of slides for all ages and friendly staff, it’s both fun and relaxing.

Eleven + years

If you can drag your teens and tweens away from the surfing and shopping in Bali’s south, show them the ‘real Bali’ on a downhill cycling tour. Starting from the volcano at Bali’s centre, you coast through traditional villages as local children wave and call out “hello”. Whitewater rafting is another unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

Our kids begged to go back to Bali Treetop Adventure Park. Teens will be challenged by this high ropes course and have a laugh at your expense as you quiver on the flying fox. Different circuit levels and professional staff help all ages enjoy a day in the cool mountains near Bedugul.

For parents

The big bonus for parents is that kids love Balinese babysitters as they get treated with genuine warmth and caring attention. Many hotels have kids’ clubs, and family guesthouses will always have someone who can babysit for you so you are free to go to yoga, spas, restaurants, shopping or enjoy a quiet sunset cocktail. Treating kids to restaurant meals out is so much easier (and cheaper) in Bali, where you always feel welcomed by staff. Our favourite child-friendly restaurant is Laka Leke in Ubud, where they also do dance performances most nights. I’m going back to see the wonderful Balinese friends I’ve made over the years and immerse myself in the peaceful culture of this incredible island. And maybe have a cocktail or two watching the sunset.

Bali Travel Tips

GETTING THERE: Flying to Bali from Brisbane is a relatively cheap six-hour flight, and recent renovations at the airport in Denpasar have made arrivals easier. Try to stay the first night at least in a hotel with a pick-up service so they meet your flight. WHEN TO GO: Bali is getting more crowded by the year, especially in July/August and the Christmas holiday period. Try to travel outside these times for cheaper deals and less traffic. Weather wise, there are only two seasons — wet (October to March) and dry (April to September) — and we’ve found travelling in both okay. WHERE TO STAY: Many families like to get away from the crowds and bustle of Kuta and Legian (especially during schoolies) by staying in Sanur or Nusa Dua. If you can do without the beach, opt for the peaceful rice fields surrounding Ubud, Bali’s artistic and cultural hub. Few Aussie families venture further afield, but Amed and Candi Dasa are both beautiful snorkelling spots well worth driving an extra couple of hours. GETTING AROUND: A driver with a car is a great investment for a family. You’ll generally need to bring your own booster seat, and be aware that few cars have anchor points. Kiddie backpacks are more useful than strollers in Bali given the uneven footpaths.

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kids on the Coast

CONVERSATION

Rick and Melissa Derksen Interview by Natasha Higgins

The makers of RICKY DEE’S TOYS FROM CAMPHOR TREES Handcrafted locally in Eumundi by the Derksen family, the unique and enchanting designs of Ricky Dee’s Toys from Camphor Trees offer a glimpse into a whimsical world. Magical childhood toys including timber tree houses, castles, fairy houses, eco log cabins, fairy doors, horse ranches, wishing wells, moneyboxes, gnomes, knights, pixies, fairies and miniature furniture have recently been joined by handcrafted hobbit and fairy garden kits. Set to become heirloom pieces to last generations, every Ricky Dee’s creation is unique in its own way. This stems from the variation in the timber itself as well as limitless imagination of whoever carefully crafted the timber piece. Rick is the main woodcrafter, but the whole family joins in at different times. When Rick was a child he used to build little log cabins in the scrub and is now a self-taught woodworker. “Creations just come to me in dreams or from appreciating nature. I imagine the ‘wee folk’ like gnomes, fairies, hobbits and pixies living within our Australian wildlife,” explains Rick. Rick’s wife Melissa is a teacher/ tutor who is passionate about education and focuses on the whole child - the heart, head and hand. She makes the ‘wee people’ to complement Rick’s toys, together with 11-year-old daughter Pearl, and helps with sharing their creations. The whole family has been involved in the family business at various times. The Derksen boys – sons Jared (21), Jacob (18) and Melissa’s brother Cameron (24) – have been known to tinker in the shed making their own creations including real scale medieval weapons, a pirate set complete with pirates, dock, boat and mermaid, a miniature coffee machine and a series of mining playscapes inspired by the show “Gold Rush”. Cameron also assists with IT needs and Jacob helps with photography. Pearl has designed her own doll house pergola which any child would adore and also helps staging the toys for photos.

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

Together they believe in sustainable education, and by using Australian vegetation in their designs they hope to promote the amazing fauna and flora Australia has to offer to a whole new generation of children. Melissa and Rick share more of their family’s journey and passion for the enchanting toys they create.

TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOUR LIFESTYLE AND YOUR VALUES. Melissa: We have been fortunate enough to have lived on acreage within the Eumundi hinterland most of our lives. Our acreage property has been a home for horses, goats, chooks and dogs (Pugs!). We often have orphaned possums living here as I am a volunteer wildlife carer with WILVOs (Wildlife Volunteer Association Inc.). We love living close to nature. All three of the lads have worked in the horticulture industry and we try to live by sustainable principles and use permaculture techniques. Our property is slowly being planted with more Australian native plants as part of the ‘Land for Wildlife’ initiative.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START CREATING YOUR TOYS? Melissa: Ricky Dee’s started off by accident when we were removing a camphor laurel tree from our driveway. We then made the stump into a castle and used some branches for doll furniture for our daughter. Rick’s brain exploded with possibilities from there. Rick: Reflecting back on my childhood we never had as many toys then but we discovered a whole realm of possibilities in nature. These days our world can be futuristic and that doesn’t allow a child to be as imaginative. We try to make toys and creations that allow a child to be a child, to imagine, to dream, to open their minds to the possibilities … to make a fairy tale of their own.

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Find us on Facebook/MysteryIslandKidsClub NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

CONVERSATION

WHERE DO YOU SOURCE YOUR MATERIALS? Melissa: From our own camphor laurel timber (camphor is a noxious weed) and small branches from our own property and from a local business ‘Fab Slabs’. We have an amazing gum nut collection from Australian flora. We purchase doll bases from ‘Winterwood’ and felt from ‘The Treasure House’ (Noosa Pengari Steiner School). Our designs are also sold at ‘The Treasure House’.

Melissa: When our sons were small, we both worked full time. After Rick was made redundant (after 22 years!), I worked full time and Rick was a stay-at-home dad. He loved it! He never wanted to go back to 9 to 5. He was able to be available as a dad. He’d never had so much time with the kids.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY FOR RICKY DEE’S TOYS?

WHAT GENERAL ADVICE HAS HAD THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOU?

Melissa: Have a cuppa on the verandah, listening to the birds. Turn the power on in the shed. Call Kip the shed dog and off we go into the shed. Turn the radio on, listen to old tunes and let the imagination run wild. Rick sometimes takes a walk in the paddock looking for twigs and fallen gum nuts. He takes the dogs with him. When our kids come home, we can turn the power off and go hang out with the family.

Melissa: Rick’s imagination was unlocked by a break from ‘work’. We now know to follow your dreams and passions. This can occur no matter what your age. Pearl is now joining ‘SevGen’ who are pioneering a different approach to learning. There she will be able to play with purpose and learn about her passions.

To be good to all creatures (humans and animals), to be connected to the earth, to trust in yourself, be true to yourself, to know you don’t have to conform to systems and that money isn’t everything.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCE IN MAKING YOUR TOYS? Rick: When children and adults see my work, their smiles say it all. They all want to know “How did you think of this? What made you start to make such wonderful designs?” They show so much interest that I begin to tell my story … my passion for what I do has shown me time and time again that everyone is a child at heart.

WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT CHILDREN’S REACTIONS TO YOUR TOYS? Rick: Kids question all the time, “Do you believe in wee folk or fairies? Did you make all this?” They are amazed! Adults ask, “How can a 6 foot 2 bloke make a gumnut kettle the size of a thumbnail?”

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY LIFE AND WORK DEMANDS? Melissa: We love working from home. It can be challenging. You get interrupted a lot yet we can be available for our family. It’s been wonderful to share the creativity with our kids and their friends. Everyone has ideas and designs. We constantly chat about our imaginative ideas. We are now considering “Hands-on Workshops”, “Creativity Classes”, publishing children’s books using Rick’s creations, our wildlife stories, photo prints and animation possibilities. We also commission pieces for people by appointment.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST LIFE-DEFINING MOMENT?

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014

WHAT PARENTING ADVICE HAS HAD THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOU? As a parent, we know our own children even better than ’professionals’ and that’s been a recent, difficult lesson. A lovely lady told us to, “Trust yourselves; you are wonderful parents”. So if need be, gather advice, listen, reflect and then trust your child and your own parenting instincts!

HOW HAS HAVING CHILDREN CHANGED YOUR LIFE? Rick: Completely! To have grown into an adult with children of my own has provided me with untold riches that money or wealth can’t buy. Our life’s achievement would be our kids generally; we love them so much. We hope our children know their self worth, know they are unique and to be proud of that diversity. We wish them to be able to follow their passions and forge their own path.

WHAT LIFE MESSAGE DO YOU MOST WANT YOUR CHILDREN TO LEARN? To be good to all creatures (humans and animals), to be connected to the earth, to trust in yourself, be true to yourself, to know you don’t have to conform to systems and that money isn’t everything.

WHAT IS THE MOTTO YOU LIVE BY REGARDING YOUR FAMILY AND BEING A PARENT? After both working full time we learnt as parents to slow down and value time with our children. Now our children are older, we tell them to be unique, to follow passions and interests, be different and march to a different drum!

DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER ‘WORDS OF WISDOM’ TO SHARE? Foster creativity in children (and adults) and let your imagination run wild! SEE RICKY DEE’S TOYS AT THE EUMUNDI MARKETS MOST SATURDAYS. TO FIND OUT MORE, VISIT WWW.RICKYDEES.COM.AU OR EMAIL RICK AND MELISSA AT INFO@RICKYDEES.COM.AU.

USEFUL LINKS SevGen – www.sevgen.com.au. Land for Wildlife – www.lfwseq.org.au. Wildlife Volunteer Association Inc – www.wilvos.org.au. For Australian native wildlife emergencies phone the WILVOs 24-hour hotline on 07 5441 6200.

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3 Wins in 3 Weeks for Australia’s Favourite Family At the recent Queensland Hotels Association industry night of nights, Australia’s favourite family holiday destination, Zagame’s Paradise Resort, took home its third win in three weeks. The annual Queensland Hotels Association Awards for Excellence presentation and gala dinner was held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on 1 October with the award for “Best Mid-Range Accommodation 2014” being presented to Zagame’s Paradise Resort on the Gold Coast. The glittering award ceremony was attended by over 1,000 industry representatives. In accepting the award, General Manager David Brook was thrilled that the QHA had recognised the efforts of the staff and dedication by its owners. “It was an honour to have won this award,” he said. “It’s nice to have all the hard work, capital investment and planning validated with this special recognition. We’ve taken our customer feedback on board and looked at areas of improvement and believe the overall product speaks for itself,” said Mr Brook. The QHA award was the third win in as many weeks for the resort, with Paradise Resort also announced winner of Holiday with Kids magazine 2014 “Best Family Resort in Australia – 4 stars and under” and winner of the “Family Holiday Destination of the Year” in the prestigious Australian Mother & Baby Awards. Announced in the Spring issue just three weeks ago, the readers of Holidays with Kids magazine voted Paradise Resort “Best Family Resort in Australia – 4 stars and under”, making this the fourth year in a row (and six years out of seven) that Paradise Resort has been positioned at number one.

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And earlier this week, in the first year of being nominated, Paradise Resort won the Gold Award for “Family Holiday Destination of the Year” at the 2014 Mother & Baby Awards. The Mother & Baby Awards celebrate the best baby buys in the market from cots to nappies, prams to wipes and the best places to travel with a baby. The resort was nominated alongside a host of worthy recipients with Silver awarded to SeaWorld Resort & Water Park and Accor Hotels taking the Bronze, so to take away Gold is a huge honour. Resort General Manager David Brook is delighted at having “three nominations and three wins; there’s a lot to be proud of. Our team are very focused and work tirelessly in ensuring each family enjoys their stay. From the complimentary daily session in the Zone 4 Kids Club that caters for 0 to 12 year olds, to the exclusive daily activities, entertainment and outdoor water park, we strive to exceed the expectations of families visiting the Gold Coast.” The resort operates on a ‘kids first’ policy with a rich program of activities and leisure activity to occupy children, allowing for much needed adult R&R time. “We recognise that a family holiday is much more than just a hotel room; it’s about the experiences and memories encountered as a family the minute you step out of your hotel room. That is what makes for a true family holiday experience.” The resort has one final awards nomination for the year set to be announced on 28 November, having been nominated for the “Unique Accommodation” category in the 2014 Queensland Tourism Awards. Will it be four from four?

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 – Kids on the Coast

BOOKS, MOVIES, APPS, GAMES

REVIEWS BOOKS

APPS

THE LITTLE GIRL WHO LOST HER NAME / THE LITTLE BOY WHO LOST HIS NAME

BEDTIME FOR SARAH SULLIVAN

A Lostmy.Name personalised book, Not in Shops, RRP $33.95 A beautiful gift for children aged 2 – 6 years, these magical personalised books tell the story of a child who has lost his or her name and who bravely sets off on a marvellous adventure to track down all the missing letters. Along the way the child meets lots of weird, wonderful and wise characters who all help in the search. Each one has its own funny, surprising and touching story, and each gives the child a letter. A little girl called Emily would meet a forgetful Elephant, a rather vain Mermaid, a cold-averse Inuit, a misunderstood Lion and genial Yeti to discover her lost name, while a little boy named David would meet a not-so-ferocious Dragon, a kind-hearted Aardvark, a rather unorthodox Viking, a cold-averse Inuit, and a disgruntled Hole that throws out letter Ds (among other things) to uncover his name. Each name creates a different journey, designing a unique story that will be special to every child.

SNAP MAGIC Angela Sunde, Red Pedal Press, RRP $12.95 Something weird is going on...very weird. Long black hairs keep sprouting from Lily’s chin and her dad is looking more and more like a Yeti. Just what’s behind this fuzz fest? And is Lily really turning into a witch like her neighbour, Mrs Swan? Now the prettiest and meanest girl in class is threatening to tell the whole school, including the cute new boy. Can Lily put her desperate plan into action before the school bully strikes? And will the magical solution Mrs Swan offers work? Written by Gold Coast based author Angela Sunde, this is a bewitchingly funny coming-of-age story about secrets, bullies and pumpkin soup. Ideal for 9 – 12 year olds.

(iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, Kindle) $2.99 – $3.21 The Bedtime for Sarah Sullivan app, based on the award-winning book of the same name, offers a positive twist on traditional bedtime stories with its rewarding interactive experience. With three storytelling modes – Read To Me, Auto Play and Read By Myself – each of the 32 imaginative interactive pages feature objects and characters that make sounds, movement or speak upon touch, bringing to life the character of Sarah, a modern girl who is outgoing, bold and expressive. Two inapp games and a special ‘dreams’ drawing activity challenge, educate and entertain young readers.

MOVIES ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY In cinemas December 4. Rating: TBC Follow 11-year-old Alexander as he experiences the worst day of his young life in this Disney adaptation of the award-winning children’s book. Alexander’s day begins with gum stuck in his hair, followed by one calamity after another. He finds little sympathy from his family and being to wonder if bad things only happen to him. He soon learns that he’s not alone when his mum, dad, brother and sister all find themselves living through their own terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.

PADDINGTON In cinemas December 11. Rating: TBC Adapted from Michael Bond’s universally beloved books, Paddington follows the journey of an optimistic and polite young bear from Peru who travels to London in search of a home and a family. When the Brown family invites him to stay with them, little do they realise how much comic mayhem one young bear will bring to their everyday life.

To see more reviews visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au 66

Kids on the Coast – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014