Kids on the Coast - Sunshine Coast - Issue 77. November/December 2016

ISSUE 77 November/December 2016 SUNSHINE COAST

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FREE TO TAKE HOME

Local issue the

Take a Staycation!

LOVING Queensland holidays

Local mumpreneurs Create a MAGICAL woodland party

What is the IB? Coast schools offering world-class education

[WELCOME]

[CONTENTS]

Kaia, 7 years

Lottie, 5 years

Hi everyone!

I’m sure you’ll all agree, there’s something truly special about this little corner of the world in which we live. It’s not just the beautiful beaches, the amazing weather, the great entertainment, and the yummo dining on offer (though these things help a lot!). It’s the community that exists here: the mumpreneurs running their home businesses from the kitchen table, the neighbourhood cafes serving only locally grown foods, the markets teeming with unique products from regional artisans and growers, and the real sense of village around you as you raise your little ones.

And so, to celebrate our amazing little pocket of paradise, this issue we are all about living LOCAL. Making the most of living in a holiday destination, we have a huge feature on taking a family staycation, with the many ways to enjoy some much needed R&R, right on your doorstep.

Our Education section takes a look at the increasingly popular International Baccalaureate programme, and the Sunshine Coast schools now offering this world-class education opportunity. And we also delve into the mystery of Montessori, to unravel this peaceful pedagogy.

With Christmas just around the corner, an amazingly talented group of local mumpreneurs creates a magical woodland children’s party, and they share their secrets on successful party planning this festive season. And we have a bumper Check This Out section, featuring a bounty of locally produced gifts to fill your Santa sacks.

We also have an inspirational interview with Lizzie Velasquez, the brave woman who has gone from cyberbully victim to becoming one of the most influential anti-bullying campaigners in the world.

And with all the latest events, news, and a round-up of the local Christmas festivities happening across the region, we have your local summer covered!

To keep up to date with all the school holiday activities on offer over the summer, don’t forget to sign up to our weekly What’s On newsletter at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au. And, as always, if you have a story to share or feedback on the issue, drop me a line at editor@mothergoosemedia.com.au.

I’d love to hear from you!

Balloons supplied by Ruby Rabbit Partyware www.rubyrabbit.com.au

3 FROM THE EDITOR 4 WHAT’S ON: All your local events for November and December

24 EDUCATION: World-class education with the International Baccalaurreate 30 TALK: Surviving school holidays in paradise

6 SOCIAL: What's trending on our social pages

32 YOU: Home alone

8 WHAT’S NEWS: The latest news in your area

34 SPECIAL: Lizzie Velasquez, A Brave Heart

10 NOTICEBOARD: All the news and achievements from our local schools

38 PARTY: Local mumpreneurs creating woodland magic together 42 WELLBEING: Keeping pregnancy natural

12 FEATURE: Having a family staycation!

46 CHRISTMAS: Have a merry Coasty Christmas!

18 CHECK THIS OUT: Shop local this Christmas with these seriously cool products

48 WEB WRAP UP: The latest from online

20 EDUCATION: Unravelling the mystery of Montessori

49 LOCAL LIFE: In the fast lane with Holly Espray 50 REVIEWS: Movies, books and apps

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Kerry White, Rebecca Grugan, Trisha Valentine, Madonna Hirning, Chevaune Hindley, Nikki Warren

Angela Sutherland, Editor

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.

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

NOV/DEC 2016

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t

as o C e

WHAT'S ON Visit ou r website to see more events!

n

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

DAILY MALENY DAIRY FARM TOURS Cuddle up to some farmyard friends, feed the animals and watch the tour cow being milked.

The farm and factory is a great place to bring the family, where learning can be fun! www.malenydairies.com

NOVEMBER 12 GREASE Join ‘Coast Academy of Song and Dance’ and be taken back to the fabulous ‘50s, in everyone’s favourite musical Grease!

The talented 110-strong cast will perform all the hit songs making it one fabulous night to remember! www.thej.com.au/whats-on/grease

NOVEMBER 12 – 13 KIDS CULTURE CONSCIOUS LIFE FESTIVAL The Festival is a unique health and wellbeing event with free creative workshops and activities for children including music, singing, dance, yoga, storytelling, drumming, art, craft and face painting just to name a few! www.consciouslifefestival.com.au/kids-culture/

NOVEMBER 25 – 27; DECEMBER 2 – 3 MOTHERHOOD THE MUSICAL In this fun musical, four women share their insights, challenges and joys at a baby shower.

Peek into the powerful friendships of women who appreciate that motherhood is for life. It’s climbing the emotional mountain only to find that there’s laundry at the top. It’s discovering how powerful your love can be and how quickly they grow up. It’s helping them find their way and not losing yours! www.coolumtheatre.com.au

DECEMBER 2 – 3 CHRISTMAS IN COOROY The Lighting of Cooroy's Christmas Tree has become a tradition for many residents, marking the beginning of the festive season. Events the next day include music, games and carols, and even snow blowers for a bit of added fun! www.christmasincooroy.com.au

DECEMBER 12-16 KIDS ON THE COAST / KIDS IN THE CITY

VERTEC ADVENTURE SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMP A fun, hands on camping adventure where kids will develop skills in leadership, team building, and confidence. Enjoy archery, bush crafts, mountain biking, abseiling, survivor challenges and more! www.kidsadventure.camp

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There is a range of camps for all abilities, from proficient riders aged 13 and over, to children aged 6 years plus. Advanced activities include catching and preparing your own horse, jumping, cross country, cow mustering, swimming horses and gymkhana. www.kiahpark.com.au

It’s Rides Unlimited at Aussie World with over 30 rides and attractions for the young and young at heart including water ride.

Plunge, water play area Leak’n Logs, thrill ride Redback and fun Giant Slide. www.aussieworld.com.au

Surfrider Foundation is proud to present it's yearly "Eco Challenge", sustainability Festival promoting sustainable lifestyle options, food vendors, Surf Comp, yoga, markets, kids face painting, music and lots more! www.facebook.com/SurfriderEcoChallenge

DECEMBER 12 LIBRARIES ON THE MOVE Meet up at Brightwater Park for a morning of stories, games, dress ups and fun!

No bookings required, but teddy bears, hats and picnic blankets are essential.

Proudly supported by First 5 Forever. www.library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Visitors can explore the many amazing treasures and artefacts inside the Museum, or visit the Christmas market stalls in the gardens. You may even bump into Santa himself for a picture! www.abbeymuseum.com.au/events

NOVEMBER 26 – 31 DECEMBER KIAH PARK HORSE RIDING CAMP

DAILY AUSSIE WORLD

DECEMBER 3 ECO CHALLENGE SUSTAINABILITY FESTIVAL

NOVEMBER 19 ABBEY MUSEUM OPEN DAY AND BOUTIQUE CHRISTMAS MARKETS

TOP 5 SECRET SWIMMING HOLES Serenity Falls Gardner Falls Kondalilla Falls Artists Cascades Booloumba Falls

DECEMBER 17 13TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE A wonderful visual display of light and festivities on The Wharf Mooloolaba, to celebrate the Christmas season and help create a brighter future for people with a disability. www.christmasboatparade.net

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

DECEMBER 10 TREE HOUSE INITIATIVES ALL ABILITIES CHRISTMAS PARTY Get excited for the 3rd annual Treehouse Initiative Christmas Party for children of all ages and abilities. Activities will include bouncy castles, face painting, side show alley, food, show bags and much more! www.thetreehouseinitiative.org.au

DECEMBER 28 – 17 JANUARY BIG LEGO® AT THE BIG PINEAPPLE Brisbricks are holding a free entry showcase of fantastic LEGO® creations using both traditional brick building and mosaic techniques. Get inspired by towering buildings and scenes made of LEGO®! www.bigpineapple.com.au/events-2/

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

S

i h s un

Tue 17 Jan

11am & 1.30pm Sunshine Coast Lake Kawana Community Centre On Sale Now 5413 1400 or scvenuesandevents.com.au Go to livenation.com.au

Mister Maker ™ & © 2016 The Foundation. Licensed by Zodiak Rights Limited.

“A live comedy experience kids and their grown-ups can share...a winner”

PRESENTS Photo courtesy John Dumble

Sydney Morning Herald

From the producers of

"Menopause The Musical"

(IT’S (IT’S TWICE TWICE AS AS GOOD GOOD AS AS 3D) 3D)

comes...

THE MUSICAL

LAKE KAWANA COMMUNITY CENTRE

Thursday 19th January 2017 - 10am

Written by: Sue Fabisch Directed by: Jennifer Rousset Musical Director: John Rush

Rated S for Stupid.

EARLY BIRD single tickets on sale today for a limited time at only $16 until midday 23 December.

From 24 December: single tickets $20 / Group of 4 minimum 2 kids $68.

See website for booking details www.scvenuesandevents.com.au Or call 07 5413 1400

By Arrangement with David Spicer Productions www.davidspicer.com.au

In this fun musical, four women share their insights, challenges and joys at a baby shower. Peek into the powerful friendships of women who appreciate that motherhood is for life. It’s climbing the emotional mountain only to find that there’s laundry at the top.

TICKET PRICES Members $22, Adults $28, Conc. $25

SHOW DATES

NOV 25 & 26 at 7:30pm DEC 2 & 3 at 7:30pm NOV 27 & DEC 4 at 2pm COOLUM CIVIC CENTRE Park Street, Coolum Beach • Cabaret seating • Tables of 8 • BYO nibbles & drinks • Raffle prizes

BOOK ONLINE www.coolumtheatre.com.au or RING 5446 2500

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NOV/DEC 2016

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

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

KAWANA SET TO SCORE GOLD IN RACE FOR SPORTS FACILITIES

Kawana looks set to become home to a world-class high-performance sporting hub, following council’s approval of the master plan for the project.

The design includes short-term accommodation for visiting athletes and teams, an integrated indoor sports training facility, sports medicine facilities and a licensed sporting clubhouse with dining and conference rooms.

“This facility will cater for the needs of both the Sunshine Coast community and athletes across all sporting codes and I am pleased to welcome this sporting centre to Division 3,” said councillor Peter Cox. “It’s going to provide enormous regional benefits as it’s delivered in stages across the coming years.”

Tourism, sport and major events portfolio councillor Jason O’Pray added: “Short-term budget accommodation is what we need to grow our sports tourism sector because many sporting teams have difficulties meeting the cost of accommodation.

This new facility has the potential to provide a key solution.”

For more information visit council’s website at www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.

EXPERTS SAY ‘NO NEED TO BURP YOUR BABY’ Experts are telling mothers that it might not be necessary to burp your baby, following research conducted by the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research in Chandigarh, India.

Researcher and mother, Bhavneet Bharti, who found it hard to burp her baby, conducted a study on 71 babies. She and her team found that burped babies spit up more than those who aren’t burped. Burped babies spit up around eight times a week, and those that aren’t burped only spit up around half as much.

They also found that burped babies don’t cry less than those that aren’t burped.

To see the full results of the study, visit http:// onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/cch.12166/abstract.

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FUNDING BOOST FOR EARLY DETECTION OF CEREBRAL PALSY A research project that aims to detect cerebral palsy in infants has received a $1.5 million boost.

DID YOU

KNOW The longest ever recorded flight by a chicken is

13 seconds

QUEENSLAND HAS OVER 200 NATIONAL PARKS ON AVERAGE, CATS WILL SPEND

66%

OF THEIR LIFE

ASLEEP

The most often played board game in the world is Monopoly THERE ARE

200 MILLION

COWS IN INDIA kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

The project, run by the University of Queensland, is hoping to develop new ‘toolboxes’ of biological and clinical markers to detect the condition earlier.

Minister for innovation, science and the digital economy Leeanne Enoch, said: “About 600 to 700 babies are born with cerebral palsy in Australia every year. Pre-term babies are at a higher risk of developing the condition. If you can detect cerebral palsy early, then you can fast-track early intervention programs.”

At the moment, children with cerebral palsy aren’t diagnosed with the condition until they are in their second year, which can result in late referral to intervention.

“The first two years of life are a period of rapid neural change so early detection is critical if we are to improve the health and well-being of these children as they grow up,” Ms Enoch said.

The Minister said Professor Roslyn Boyd, who is one of Australia’s foremost authorities on cerebral palsy and is leading the study, was already making great strides with older children in managing the condition.

‘RED HAIR’ TAUNTS ENCOURAGE MUM TO WRITE BOOK A mother from Queensland who was fed up of children taunting her 18-month-old son because he had red hair has written a book about him.

Melissa Giret, author of Roman Has Red Hair, said she wrote the book to help red headed children come up with ways to cope with people commenting on their hair. She told The ABC: "It's going to help little kids who maybe suffer from bullying, whether it's because of their hair or some other physical attribute."

Ms Giret, from the Sunshine Coast, has sent the draft to publishers but is hoping she will be able to self-publish the book with the help of funding through GoFundMe. To find out more visit www.gofundme.com/2o09aes.

ABDS has a brand new HOME Come check it out!

100 Lady Musgrave Drive, Mountain Creek

ENROL FOR 2017 NOW! FUN DANCE CLASSES FREE TRIAL LESSONS FAMILY FRIENDLY DANCE SCHOOL

Fun dance classes for children aged 2 years and over!

Phone - 0411 801 144 Find us on Facebook - Amy Beccari Dance Studios Official

i @noxandlei | www.noxandlei.com CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES CHILDREN’S BRAND

f

www.amybeccaridancestudios.com.au PR

FO OG RA R GE AM S5 & US P

FUTURE PROOF YOUR CHILD Start the robotics journey with a Bricks 4 Kidz Workshop this summer!

- NOOSA - CALOUNDRA - MAROOCHYDORE ADVANCED ROBOTICS WITH LEGO® MINDSTORMS®

Through learning coding and robotics, we will prepare students for the jobs of the future and develop their skills in critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and innovation.

Advancing Education Action Plan - Queensland Government

LEGO® TECHNIC AND CREATOR WORKSHOPS

JUNIOR ROBOTICS WITH LEGO® WEDO®

Various themes including Bat League, A Despicable Christmas and Go Pocket Brick Monsters.

Students will learn to write programs with WeDo® software to control and operate the unique Bricks 4 Kidz® models that they build.

- SCHOOL PROGRAMS - PARTIES - HOLIDAY PROGRAMS - ROBOTICS email: ghodgkins@bricks4kidz.com - mobile: 0477 077 060

For further information go to:

www.bricks4kidz.com.au/qld-sunshine-coast kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

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Do you have a story to share? Email your school's news to editor@mothergoosemedia.com.au

NOTICE BOARD All the news and achievements from ou r local schools

special places that the girl in the book visits with her grandad: The Think and Thank Seat, Let Go Log, Cross Over Corner and the Dream Table.

The four areas hope to teach the students about gratitude, forgiveness, courage and dreams.

Prep teacher Jon Northwood, who led the project, said: “The four recreated special places serve as reminders on what we value as a community within Australia. It is about leaving a legacy to our children.”

TWO COAST STUDENTS COMPLETE THE KOKODA TRAIL Two Year 5 students from the Sunshine Coast recently completed the gruelling 96km Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to raise money for two charities.

ST ANDREW’S STUDENTS ARE ON THE BALL

GARDENS FLOURISH IN COAST SCHOOLS

A group of 47 young fooatball hopefuls, including several from St Andrew’s Anglican College, spent part of the spring school holidays developing skills under an English Premier League football club.

In 2011, Eumundi State School received a $250,000 Healthy Queensland Award for an ‘open air’ classroom and now it boasts an edible garden most farmers would be envious of.

Coaches and staff from the West Bromwich Albion football team worked with elite players between the ages of nine and 14 as part of a Talent Identification camp.

Complete with a purpose built classroom, the garden is bursting with fruit and vegetables. The students learn about where their food comes from and get to use it fresh from the garden when they rustle up some tasty recipes in the kitchen.

West Bromwich Albion senior football development officer Adrian Dove said the club’s aim was to strengthen skills and identify potential new players in five camps held across Australia. “We look at a number of different things—the technical side and how the play the game, their tactical skills and also the social skills of players and how they work in a team,” he said.

Year 7 St Andrew’s student Lachlan Lumb said: “They have been teaching us new skills while still making it fun—I’ve learnt heaps about using both feet more often and how to play ‘on’ and ‘off’ the ball,” he said.

One player from five Australian camps will be selected to take part in a DB Sports Tours International Football Camp in Barcelona, Spain.

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The garden also has its own worm farm that turns compostable waste produced by the Eumundi Markets into worm juice, which is sold by the school and also used to help fertilise the gardens.

School principal Michael Connors said: “We are lucky to link in with the community and have pretty close ties with Eumundi itself. It's very back-tonature.”

And Eumundi students are not the only greenfingered ones on the Coast. Coolum Beach Christian College recently opened a new garden to celebrate this year’s Grandparents’ Day. Inspired by the book I Grow in Grandad’s Garden

by Brian Andrew, the garden symbolises the four kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

Anabelle Campbell from Matthew Flinders and Jak Azar from Kuluin State School endured the trek to raise funds for Diggers Rest, a retreat for serving and former Army members (www.diggersrest.org. au) and the Kokoda Track Foundation, a charity providing sustainable aid in PNG (https://ktf.ngo).

Both students told 7 News that, while the trek was difficult, it was an unforgettable, life-changing experience. “Extremely hard the trek, but really amazing,” said Jak. “All the sights and all the people there were lovely.”

Anabelle added: “It was so hard but then you got to the end and over the arch at the Kokoda, the end of the track—you felt like you could easily do it again,” she said.

YANDINA STATE SCHOOL TEACHER WINS REGIONAL AWARD A Year 5 teacher from Yandina State School has been selected as the North Coast Region's Teacher of the Year.

Craig Johnson won the award in the Showcase Awards for Excellence in School, run by the Department of Education. He is one of only two teachers to make the State Showcase Finals, where the winners will be announced at the Awards Gala Dinner in Brisbane. To find out more about the awards, visit http://education.qld.gov.au/community/ events/showcase/2016/index.html

Giving early swimmers an advantage

At NCC early swimmers, our focus is on the care and wellbeing of your child, teaching them essential safety skills, developing water confidence and strokes. Available for children as young as six months of age, our lessons are fun and structured in a warm, nurturing environment.

ER 2017 T

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a l of speci

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fe r s

E EBSIT W E E S S ETAIL D R O F

34 McKenzie Rd, Woombye QLD 4559 (07) 5451 3340 info@nccearlyswimmers.com.au nccearlyswimmers.com.au

6

MON + TH S

From age early 2 . 5 years have , l e a rn a each swim less ers o n in we e k c s w im w i t h a N C l u d e d m er s C e ar A gr e ly teach a er. gain t way for ch w safet ater confi ildren to y skil den c ls an d e an d h an d e sp e y f or c ially bu a n d d s y m um s a ds .

SOME EARLY ADVANTAGES EXCURSIONS including a trip to Australia Zoo, Maroochy Botanical gardens, the cinemas, visit to the hospital and Ginger Factory, riding on a train to enjoy a teddy bear’s picnic.

FR OM

15 O M NTH S

ACTIVE KIDS SPORTS PROGRAM a fun program to develop ball skills, fitness, balance and dance (runs twice a week).

WE HAVE OUR OWN FARM surrounded by a 5 acre farm where visits to our miniature horses and chickens, learning to care for animals and growing fruit and vegetables is a part of the NCC experience.

Visit nccearlylearners.com.au for further information or call (07) 5451 3330.

34 McKenzie Rd, Woombye QLD 4559 (07) 5451 3330 info@nccearlylearners.com.au nccearlylearners.com.au kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

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Family staycation [FEATURE]

HAVING A

by KERRY WHITE

AS WE COME INTO SUMMER, YOU MIGHT BE PLANNING YOUR NEXT FAMILY HOLIDAY. HOW ABOUT A PLACE THAT OFFERS THE BEST BEACHES, GREAT ADVENTURES, TIP-TOP ACCOMMODATION, SUPERB FOOD, FANTASTIC WEATHER AND MUCH, MUCH MORE? SOUND LIKE THE PERFECT PLACE FOR YOU? IT IS! AND IT’S CALLED SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND! WE BRING YOU THE BEST FROM OUR CORNER OF THE WORLD SO YOU CAN ENJOY A FAMILY STAYCATION THE WHOLE FAMILY WILL ENJOY. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

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kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

[FEATURE]

BEST

Adventure

Holidays are the perfect time to try something a little bit different, even if it is on your doorstep. Take the plunge and try stand-up paddle boarding (see www.oceanaddicts.com.au or http://goldcoastsup.com.au), hire a boat (see www.swanboathire. com.au or http://brisbaneboathire.com.au), or try your hand at tennis (see hotshots.tennis.com.au) or archery (see www.goldcoastarchery. com). Here are some other ideas.

TRY A KAYAK TOUR OF THE NOOSA EVERGLADES Kanu Kapers offers guided or self-guided kayaking adventures in the Noosa Everglades. You can choose a half-day guided tour suitable for all levels of fitness, or a longer tour (up to three days) that includes camping beside the Noosa River. More seasoned kayakers can opt for a self-guided three-day experience, allowing you to take things at your own pace and choose where to camp.

Half-day guided tours cost $155 for adults and $80 for children (16 and under). The cost for a family (two adults and two children) is $450. The self-guided three-day tour costs $175 per person, plus $15 each for the camping permit and fees, or $680, plus camping fees, for two adults and two children.

Visit www.kanukapersaustralia.com for details.

CLIMB MOUNT COOLUM Mount Coolum stands 208 metres high and offers spectacular views of the coast… once you reach its summit. But the walk is surprisingly easy and there are lots of areas to rest on the way up. A gorgeous little smoothie bar awaits you in the car park off Jarnahill Drive when you’ve made your way back down, or take a picnic and enjoy it atop the 26 million year old volcanic dome. Visit www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/mount-coolum.

Images courtesy: Tourism and Events Queensland

TAKE TO THE TREES Unleash your inner daredevil with a visit to Australia's first adventure theme park in the trees. The adventure park has two locations, Mount Tamborine and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. At Mount Tamborine you can enjoy Australia's largest guided zip line tour with over 100 TreeTop Challenges spread over six courses.

At Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, 80 amazing TreeTop Challenges await you, with 12 massive ziplines, including the huge Croc Shock course where you (literally) ride flying foxes over crocodiles! Adult tickets cost $49 and children’s tickets (14 and under) cost $39. Find out more at www.treetopchallenge.com.au.

SNORKELLING SPOTS Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island Cook Island, Coolangatta, Gold Coast Flinders Reef, Moreton Island North Stradbroke Island, Brisbane Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast

DO FRASER ISLAND'S GREAT WALK Fraser Island is a World Heritage site known for its natural beauty and pristine white beaches. It is Queensland’s largest island and home to an abundance of wildlife including dingoes, rays, dolphins, sharks and whales (in the spring). Take it all in at your own pace by doing the island’s Great Walk. It is 90km long and will take about eight days to complete, or you can just pick a section you’d like to explore for a shorter hike. A whole range of campsites are available en route. See www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/fraser/pdf/fraser-islandvisitorguide.pdf for more information.

FLY IN A SEAPLANE We all know we live in a pretty special place, but have you even seen it from the air? Take a different view of the coast with a ride on a seaplane. Flights cost from $149 a person for a bird’s-eye view over Mooloolaba and Point Cartwright and longer flights are available all the way up to Double Island Point. Flights depart from the Maroochy River. See www.paradiseseaplanes.com.au for details.

GO SANDBOARDING Moreton Island is home to the world’s tallest coastal sand dune, making it the perfect spot to try your hand at sandboarding. You can reach speeds of 60 km/h as you make your way to the bottom!

Find out more at www.moretonislandadventures.com.au/playingthere/sandboarding/.

GO HORSE RIDING ON THE BEACH If you have horse-mad children then you have to put this one on your to do list. Take in the stunning surrounds of the Noosa North Shore as you ride along the beach. There are horses for all levels, but children must be over the age of nine and fairly confident on a horse to take part. Rides start from $155 for two hours and a maximum of two riders are allowed. See www.noosahorses.com.au/beach-rides for details and to book.

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

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Best days out FIND OUR REGION'S 'BIG THINGS'

Yep, it seems tourists can’t get enough of our ‘big things’, and who are we to judge? Make a fun day trip out of a tour round these icons of South East Queensland. Try and tick these ones off your list (and don’t forget the obligatory selfie): Big Boot, Gympie Road, Chermside Big Pineapple, Nambour Connection Road, Woombye Big Cow, Ayrshire Road, Kulangoor Big Pelican, Gympie Terrace, Noosaville Big Kangaroo, Kybong Service Station, Bruce Highway Big Ned Kelly, Gympie Road, Maryborough

WATCH A SHOW AT POMONA'S MAJESTIC THEATRE Established in 1921, the Majestic Theatre is Queensland’s longest continuously operating picture theatre and the oldest authentic silent movie theatre in the world. The wonderfully quaint theatre still hosts plays, silent films and musical acts and there is a restaurant that operates during shows. For a list of upcoming performances, visit www.themajestictheatre.com.au.

PAINT YOUR OWN CERAMIC MASTERPIECE Don’t let a drop of rain spoil a day of your holiday. Head inside for some fun at Colour My Pot in Cleveland. You can select from a wide range of pottery pieces to paint any way you like.

Then it is glazed and fired, ready for collection a week later.

Pieces start from $5 and a daily studio fee of $9 per painter applies. Find out more at www.colourmypot.com.

BEENLEIGH HISTORICAL VILLAGE AND MUSEUM Forget the stresses of modern life and take a trip back in time at the Beenleigh Historical Village and Museum. Browse the early Australia memorabilia and explore the 20 historical buildings which have been lovingly preserved and restored, each one filled with original items from the 1860s onwards. The buildings include the St George Anglican Church, The Beenleigh Council Chambers, Willkie’s General Store, the old Dodge fire engines, family homes, the Loganholme One Teacher School and the Post Office. Finish the day with a walk round the onsite art gallery and enjoy a bite to eat at the café. Tickets cost $8 for adults and $4 for children.

See http://beenleighhistoricalvillage.com.au for details.

TOUR THE WAX MUSEUM Have your photo taken with Kylie, shake hands with John Howard and then say ‘G’day’ to Crocodile Dundee—all in one day! Head to the Wax Museum in Surfers Paradise for a taste of the bizarre as you come face-to-face with life-size wax models of your favourite— and not so favourite—celebrities, royals, presidents and influential figures from history. See www.waxmuseum.com.au for details.

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WILDLIFE DESTINATIONS Queensland Zoo // www.whqzoo.com Australia Zoo // www.australiazoo.com.au Underwater World SEALIFE Mooloolaba // www.underwaterworld.com.au Currumbin Wildlife // www.cws.org.au Lone Pine Koala // www.koala.net SeaWorld // www.seaworld.com.au

Images courtesy: Tourism and Events Queensland

BEST

[FEATURE]

BROWSE BRISBANE'S MUSEUMS For a truly cultural day out, the Queensland Museum (www.qm.qld.gov.au) is the perfect starting point. A mix of permanent and changing exhibits the museum covers natural history, cultural heritage, science and human achievement. After you have finished exploring there, take a short stroll to the Gallery of Modern Art (www.qagoma.qld.gov.au). The Gallery of Modern Art has a physical space called the Children’s Art Centre which hosts events, workshops, exhibitions and programs for children, including installations by local and international artists. If you have the stamina for one more stop, make it the Queensland Maritime Museum (maritimemuseum.com.au). The museum is home to the HMAS Diamantina, a large World War II frigate you can actually board, and also the heritage listed South Brisbane Dry Dock, one of the last remaining remnants of the colony of Queensland, built in 1876.

TAKE A PITSTOP AT MOUNT MEE Motorheads, this one is for you! Drive out to the scenic Mount Mee, just an hour from the Sunshine Coast, and look out for the awesome collection of motorbikes and cars, with a café tucked behind. The Pitstop Cafe is all about the quirky motorsport memorabilia that decks the walls and is displayed out front, but it also offers good food and fantastic views. It has local crafts and collectibles for sale too. Visit www.pitstoponmtmee.com.au.

Walk off your lunch with a trip to the nearby D’Aguilar National Park (www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/daguilar/about.html).

WATCH A MOVIE AT THE DRIVE-IN Fancy a change from your local cinema for your next family movie night? Try the Yatala Drive-in Theatre. It’s a set-up straight out of Grease, with an onsite snack bar modelled on an authentic 1950s American diner serving all your favourite drive-in delicacies: think burgers, hot dogs, hot chips, donuts, popcorn, choc tops and more.

You can listen to the movie in the car via the radio, or set up camp next to your vehicle and gaze up at the stars. You can even bring your dog! So, put the kids in their pyjamas and settle in for a drivein movie experience you’ll want to revisit time and again. Tickets cost $14 per adult and $8 per child, with kids under six going free, or get two movies for $9.50 each (per adult) or $6.50 each (per child). See http://yataladrive-in.com.au.

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

CHRISTMAS CAMPS

Forest Glen

26 Nov - 3 Dec 2016

(Seniors for ages 13 and over)

3 - 10 December 2016 10 - 17 December 2016 17 - 21 December 2016 (4 days)

Only $10

per person

Book your Party

31 Dec 2016 - 7 Jan 2017 7 - 14 January 2017 14 - 21 January 2017

Or visit as a day guest and feel a holiday!

• Fulllike use ofyou’re all resorton facilities

Ph 5476 6646 www.kiahpark.com 5486 6166

• Heated pool & spa • Waterslide • Indoor cinema • Playground • BBQ’s

Camps every school holidays • Ages 6 to teens • Beginners welcome Focusing on horse riding, friendship and fun in a safe environment

www.forestglenresort.com.au

X

KIDS ON THE COAST / KIDS IN THE CITY

brings you

VERTEC ADVENTURE

Summer Holiday - CAMP -

For ages 8 - 17 5 days of outdoor adventure, camping and fun summer activities to keep kids entertained over the school holidays.

The Kids on the Coast/Kids in the City Vertec Adventure Summer Holiday Camp will bring adventure into the lives of everyone who participates.

At the core of the program is the use of fun, hands on, adventurous activities to develop skills in leadership, team building, confidence, social skills, identity and worth.

Surperb location in the Gold Coast Hinterland.

DECEMBER 12 - 16 & JANUARY 5 - 9

book now!

www.kidsadventure.camp Bookings close Dec 1, 2016

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

X

CHANGE. PURPOSE. ADVENTURE. NOV/DEC 2016

15

[FEATURE]

FORAGE FOR FREE FOOD The kids will love foraging and it’s a great opportunity to explain about local produce and how it gets from field to plate. If you’re unsure where to start, there are a few websites that can help you locate local produce in your area. Check out Falling Fruit, a global collaborative map of food sources for foragers (https://fallingfruit.org).

You can type in your address to find out what is growing near you, or search for a specific food. A foodie from Brisbane has also created a Google map listing the location of fruit trees and herbs in the city and its surrounds. Simply google 'Brisbane Public Harvest' and head to the interactive Google map to find local produce fresh from the trees, perhaps even just down your street! Happy foraging!

RIDE A STEAM TRAIN Tour the operating workshops of a Heritage Railway, test your skill inside a diesel cab simulator, find out more about the people who used to work on the railway, enjoy the largest model railway layout in Queensland and so much more! A trip to the Workshops Rail Museum in Ipswich will keep the family entertained for hours.

A family ticket for two adults and up to four children costs $63.

Find out more at www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au.

BEST

Music

WOODFORD FOLK FESTIVAL More than 2,000 performers and 438 events make up this music festival, now in its 31st year. The programme features concerts, street theatre, dances, writers’ panels, a film festival, acoustic jams, comedy sessions, debates, folk medicine, an environmental programme featuring talks, films, art and craft workshops, circus performances and workshops, late night cabarets, parades and special events including a spectacular fire event. There is also an entire children’s festival. Campers can relax in the tree-filled campgrounds after a busy day at the festival and the children will enjoy the butterfly walks, ponds and wildlife. The festival runs from December 27 to Jan 1.

Tickets with camping cost $713 per adult, $506 for children aged 13 to 17 years and $32 for children aged 6 to 12 years. Children under 6 go free. Find out more at www.woodfordfolkfestival.com.

PEREGIAN ORIGINALS On the second Sunday of every month, the delightfully artsy Peregian Beach becomes host to the Peregian Originals music concert. Featuring local performers playing music from folk to hip hop to rock (and everything in between), this free family-friendly event makes for a great afternoon. Unpack the picnic rug and Esky and settle in for some great entertainment.

See www.facebook.com/PeregianOriginals/ for details.

THEME PARKS Aussie World // www.aussieworld.com.au Dreamworld // www.dreamworld.com.au Movie World // www.movieworld.com.au

Images courtesy: Tourism and Events Queensland

Wet 'n' Wild // www.wetnwild.com.au

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NOV/DEC 2016

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Accommodation

ESCAPE THE RAT RACE G ET

Lost

TOD AY...

While all the activities and great days out we’ve covered here can easily be done in a day, you might be thinking of prolonging your stay to fit in more, or to mix the go, go, go with a bit of R&R. Southern Queensland Tourism has a comprehensive list of accommodation available on the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane—see www.brisbaneairportvic.com.au.

Here are some of our favourites.

FIND YOURSELF

CLANDULLA COTTAGES AND FARMSTAY

IN A TR ULY

Just an hour from Brisbane, or 40 minutes from the Gold Coast, lies the wonderful Clandulla Cottages and Farmstay. Set on a working farm, you are free to join in with the day’s activities, such as collecting the eggs and feeding the animals, or simply explore the tranquil setting at your own pace. They also offer ‘Breakfast with the animals’ and a ‘takeaway’ service, where the kids play and you can relax with a bottle of wine while your wood-fired pizza or fish and chips are prepared. For more details, visit www.clandullacottages.com.au.

THE MOUSES HOUSE RAINFOREST RETREAT, SPRINGBROOK You have to see this place to believe it! Each of the 13 luxury villas are named after Disney princesses or Snow White’s Dwarves and are set in the ‘enchanted rainforest’ of a World Heritage Listed National Park. Relax to the max in the spa bath with views of the forest after a day’s bushwalking and enjoy a visit each night from the resident possums. Visit www.mouseshouse.com.au for more information (and get ready to drool!).

OAKS OASIS, CALOUNDRA The huge waterpark is the main draw for most of the families that visit Oaks Oasis, but the putt-putt course, sandpit, climbing frame and jumper pillow also guarantee worn out (but happy!) kids at the end of the day. A short walk from the beach, the resort offers apartments and villas and is well placed to enjoy all the attractions on the Sunshine Coast. See www.oakshotelsresorts.com/ oaks-oasis for details.

NEED MORE INSPIRATION? CHECK OUT OUR GALLERIES OF THE BEST LOCAL PARKS, PICNIC SPOTS, PLAYGROUNDS, CAMPSITES AND MORE AT WWW.KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU/THINGS-TO-DO/GALLERY

PLA CE...

Nestled amongst 400 acres of native Australian bush, right on the doorstep of the Girraween National Park, a stone’s throw away from award winning wineries and restaurants, you can relax and unwind in your private, self-contained, four star AAA rated chalet.

A last true haven retreat with a landline in each chalet, but no mobile service, a tv, dvd player and 400+ dvd library, but no tv reception and no internet coverage in your chalet, you can truly leave the world behind. Here at Girraween we strive to make you relax and unwind. www.girraweenlodge.com.au E: info@girraweenlodge.com.au | Ph: 07 4684 5138

GRANITE BELT, QUEENSLAND

BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS, LIMITED CABINS AVAILABLE CALL US ABOUT OUR SPECIAL SUMMERTIME OFFERS

ATTENTION PARENTS!!!

WOULD YOU LIKE THESE BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD? • Confidence • Staying-Power • Improved Focus • Goal-Setting • Fitness • Concentration • Discipline • Coordination

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C BLE SPA AILA

TURTLE BEACH, MAIN BEACH A resort where kids come first. Jam-packed with a huge selection of facilities for the children including a waterpark, playground, putt-putt course, arcade games room, tennis court and 22-seat cinema, it also has its own kids activity club for ages four to 12. If the kids want to leave the resort (doubtful!), it is a short stroll to the beach. See www.turtlebeach.com.au for more information.

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WWW.MATTFIDDES.COM.AU • WWW.MFDANCE.COM.AU kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

NOV/DEC 2016

17

[CHECK THIS OUT]

Shop

local this

Christmas

HAVE A NICE DAY, SUNDAY THE ARK

RRP $149 Sunday the Ark is just one of a range of gorgeously simple toys, produced by a Gold Coast father of two. Using locally supplied, sustainably sourced birch plywood, the unique designs in the Have a Nice Day set are shipped unassembled and kids assemble the pieces to then discover their own adventures. Toys can then be disassembled or left out on display for next time. Low-tech, ingenious and the perfect platform for creative play, find Sunday and other great toys at www.haveaniceday.com.au.

WIN YOUR VERY OWN SUNDAY THE ARK! SIMPLY HEAD TO OUR COMPETITIONS PAGE TO GO INTO THE DRAW!

WIN!!

PARTY TIME STELLA DRESS

$46.95 We love everything that comes out of Mini Mooches’ doors, but this Party Time Stella Dress is a favourite for the upcoming party season! Handmade and styled on the Sunshine Coast from 100% quality cotton, the criss-cross back pattern and elasticated back is super cool for summer. Find this and more gorgeous local handmade kids clothing at www.minimooches.com.au.

SNUGĂ?POPS COMFORTER

$39.99 On-trend, monochrome comforters for the most stylish of babies, made from 100% GOTS organic fabric, 100% GOTS organic filling, and using 100% GOTS organic approved water based inks. Based on the Gold Coast, these beautifully designed, super-soft comforters are the perfect bestie for the fashionably inclined. Find at www.snugipops.com.

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NOV/DEC 2016

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

BEAN&DOE 'THE KNOXIE' TRAVEL CHAIR

$72 Out and about over the Christmas break? This bold strip travel chair will be your favourite accessory! Perfect for when there is no high chair, it fits on a standard chair (and even in a shopping trolley!) to secure your baby. Better still, it folds up into a clutch, making it simple to take with you wherever you go! Made on the Gold Coast you can find at www.beananddoe.bigcartel.com.

[CHECK THIS OUT]

CLASSIC LETTERBOX

$99 This classic letterbox from House of Cherub is a super-cute way for your whole family to send and receive mail at home. A letter to Grandma, a note for Santa, or a message from your pet, imagination, creativity and fun can be delivered in every letter! Locally based on the Sunshine Coast, you can find them at www.houseofcherub.bigcartel.com.

WIN!!

XANDER-LION BLANKET

ONE.CHEW.THREE MIA SILICONE NECKLACE

$21.95 Baby always chewing on your necklace? This gorgeous silicone necklace is made from high quality food grade silicon beads, free from BPA, cadmium, lead, phylates, PCS and latex. They don’t absorb odour or support the growth of mould, fungus or bacteria. Necklace includes a breakaway safety clasp for when the necklace is tugged sharply. The perfect Christmas gift for a new mum!

Handmade with love on the Sunshine Coast, you can find at www.onechewthree.com.au.

$129 Meet your perfect first blanket—the fierce but friendly Xander lion designed to protect your little one, day and night. Created with love on the Gold Coast, using 100% cotton for the top layer and a black silky soft minky fabric for the back of the you will want to snuggle till your hearts content. The lion will complete any kids room as a blanket or placed on the floor as a feature playmat. Find them at www.xanderloudkids.com.

WIN: YOUR VERY OWN XANDER-LION BLANKET! HEAD TO OUR WEBSITE TO ENTER THE DRAW!

LITTLE MACKIE ALPHABET CRAYON SET

$24 A fantastic way to introduce young children to colours and early literacy, these 26 thick and chunky crayons are perfect for little hands that are still developing find motor control. Colourful, fun and handmade by mum of two from the Sunshine Coast, these crayons will make a great Christmas present for young and old!

Find at http://littlemackie.bigcartel.com/products.

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

NOV/DEC 2016

19

[EDUCATION]

UNRAVELLING THE MYSTERY OF MONTESSORI

by REBECCA GRUGAN

MONTESSORI. MOST PARENTS MAY HAVE HEARD ABOUT IT, BUT FEW UNDERSTAND WHAT ‘IT’ IS. MONTESSORI IS A PEDAGOGY—A METHOD OF EDUCATION DESIGNED BY DR MARIA MONTESSORI OVER A CENTURY AGO. SHE WAS THE FIRST FEMALE MEDICAL DOCTOR IN ITALY AND OPENED HER FIRST SCHOOL IN 1907. A CONSTRUCTIVIST THEORIST IN HER BELIEFS ON HOW CHILDREN LEARN, MONTESSORI’S ULTIMATE GOAL WAS TO BRING WORLD PEACE THROUGH EDUCATION. There are many myths around this method of education such as ‘it’s the place children can do whatever they like’ or the extreme opposite opinion that ‘it’s too strict and children can’t make a sound’. Montessori is non-denominational, and is practiced in thousands of schools around the world.

Nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for three consecutive years, 1949, 1950 and 1951, Maria Jervolino wrote the following in her proposal for the 1951 Noble Peace Prize: “Dr Maria Montessori is universally known for her contribution to the cause of peace and the brotherhood of nations, to which she has dedicated the years of her long and active life, laying the foundations of a true science of peace by means on an innovated form of education”.

Originating out of Italy, the Montessori method is holistic in its approach to children’s learning and has a few key points different to what may be considered ‘mainstream’:

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NOV/DEC 2016

Prepared environment: The classroom is created using child-sized furniture, shelving, trays, utensils and so on. Activities (Jobs) are placed on the shelves and categorised into five curriculum areas: Sensorial, Mathematics, Language, Cultural and Practical Life.

Materials: The materials (toys) in the Montessori classroom are carefully designed and created ensuring they have an ‘isolated concept’ and where possible, a ‘control of error’. For example, in the maths work there is equipment called the ‘spindle box’ where its sole purpose is to teach that ‘0’ means nothing. It does this beautifully and simply, ensuring children can understand the concept with no confusion.

The goal of having materials do this is so that the child does not require an adult to tell them they are wrong or right, and that the materials do this for them, which allows the intrinsic motivation within the child to develop and shine through.

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KARINYA MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE We offer

investigate

nurture

•A nt ome l • K recogn o ised kindergar ten envirn now ch o your fo r s d e r c a h ild will be prep •A •Ap ulum als rogr na essive Montessori curric tura nim &a l env ironment with gardens

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imagine

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Find us on FACEBOOK

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We see...

Curiosity and exploration

We believe all children love a stimulating environment that is safe, warm and allows them to explore. At New Leaf Early Learning we provide parents peace of mind that children are nurtured to engage in appropriate early learning experiences that inspire their curiosity and exploration.

www.newleaf.qld.edu.au

Forest Glen

372 Mons Rd Phone 07 5453 7077

Book r u your toy! toda

Alexandra Headland

43-45 Okinja Rd Phone 07 5479 2222

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

An initiative of the

SUNSHINE COAST GRAMMAR SCHOOL A Service of the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association

NOV/DEC 2016

21

[EDUCATION]

Multi-age group settings: This is extremely important for the success of a Montessori classroom and one of the main differences to other pedagogies. Maria Montessori stated that there were four planes of development in a human’s life: 0 to 6, 6 to 12, 12 to 18 and 18 to 24.

Within these planes of development are a number of sub-planes, which ultimately form the school classroom groupings: CYCLE 1 (Children’s House): 3 to 6 CYCLE 2 (Lower Primary): 6 to 9 CYCLE 3 (Upper Primary): 9 to 12 CYCLE 4 (Middle School): 12 to 15 CYCLE 5 (Secondary School): 15 to 18 Some of the benefits of this multi-age setting include: • The opportunity for children to learn from one another through observing and interacting. Young children learn higher level cognitive and social skills not only through mental development, but also by observing others as models.

• The older children in the classroom are encouraged to give lessons to the younger children, giving the chance for the older child to solidify what they know by teaching it.

• It allows for better social development and a greater sense of community. Children who interact with children of different ages build a sense of themselves and build confidence that provides a strong foundation for them as they become adults.

• Children work at their own pace and in their own interests, no matter their age or abilities. The sense of inclusion of all children including those with special needs is demonstrated by the threeyear grouping allowing individual development to occur and without judgement on which child is behind and who is ahead.

• The curriculum is multidimensional and concrete. The child has the chance to rediscover the materials over time, and have the opportunity to repeat activities, further solidifying their learning but also taking it to another level they may not have been able to a year prior.

The three-hour work cycle: Each day the children engage in what is called a ‘work cycle’. This is three hours of uninterrupted time allowing the children to engage in a range of activities which are chosen independently and at times, by the teacher. When given a regular three-hour period, children (and adults) acquire deeper concentration, and a satisfaction within themselves at the completion of the work.

The trained teacher: A classroom can be prepared and have all the materials but without a teacher/directress/guide who has the heart and understanding of the philosophy, achieving a successful Montessori classroom is impossible. The trained teacher understands the development of the child and how the materials assist these children and when the right time to introduce new work to them is. Dr Montessori describes a number of ‘sensitive periods’

children go through and developed her materials to support these stages. This is where the deep interest and concentration of the child comes from when they are given the right work at the right time.

That is the perfect opportunity for the ‘magic’ to happen.

Mrs Stephanie Irvine, AMI trained Directress discovered the Montessori method after a friend told her about it.

“I was teaching in mainstream education and after a year of teaching I was ready to stop and change careers. The state school system I was in at the time went against everything I understood about how children learn and what they need from an education system. I was coming home at the end of the day soul crushed and I am sure the children felt the same.”

Many teachers feel at ‘home’ when they discover Montessori as it follows and supports the natural development of the child.

“Montessori suits children from all backgrounds and walks of life.

For some children it can take time to adjust and learn a new way to be self-directed and spontaneous. This takes practice and is an important skill to learn. Montessori is preparing them for life,” states Stephanie.

A question many parents have is whether their child could transfer successfully from a Montessori school to mainstream and because of the skills children learn in a Montessori classroom including independence, concentration, resilience, self-direction and confidence, they are able to adapt well in other environments.

In Australia, the Montessori movement is largest in the Early Years sector with many Montessori Long Day Care centres and Family Day Care services opening across the country.

Di Nitschke, Director of The Hills Montessori in Alexandra Hills, Brisbane explains the exponential growth in the sector: “Parents of today with children under three are more informed and understand the importance of these foundational years more than any other generation before. They want a holistic environment where their child is free to play and follow their interests, where they can connect with nature and learn at their own pace. They want their child to be happy and engaged, and Montessori is the philosophy that gives their child all of this.”

Many of today’s parents have to work, so child care is something they have to choose. “In the past Montessori has been too expensive with waitlists of years and years. Due to the demand for Montessori centres, more and more are opening up across the country allowing children from all demographics to have access to this incredible form of education,” said Ms Nitschke.

Whether a parent or guardian works, stays at home or something in between, bringing Montessori into the home is not difficult and can make parenting easier, and children happier. For ideas of what can be done at home, visit the informative parenting blog, www.howwemontessori.com.

Rebecca Grugan is Managing Director at I AM Montessori—a Brisbane based company that runs Parent Child Classes, Tutoring sessions, Training and Management of Family Day Care and Long Day Care centres as well as selling all Montessori toys and materials on their website www.iammontessori.com.au.

22

NOV/DEC 2016

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

Discover why Montessori is called the future of education.

It starts with our parent / toddler program…

•

your child takes their first steps towards independence and self-reliance.

•

you meet like-minded parents who want to nourish their child’s sense of self-worth

•

your family discovers the Montessori difference – lessons that last a lifetime.

Montessori International College…

Nurturing your child’s love of learning from 15 months to 18 years.

It’s schooling reimagined.

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Curious...

P: 07 5442 3807 www.montessori.qld.edu.au

NOV/DEC 2016

23

[EDUCATION]

WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE

by TRISHA VALENTINE

WHEN THE CONVERSATION TURNS AS IT OFTEN DOES TO “WHAT SCHOOL SHOULD I SEND MY SON OR DAUGHTER TO?” PERHAPS, INSTEAD, THE QUESTION COULD BE “WHAT TYPE OF EDUCATION DO I WANT FOR MY CHILD?” Educational offerings come packaged behind wholesome mottos, latest educational trends, catchy phrases and polished publicity, but how do we really choose what is right for our children?

Two local schools have looked globally for an answer and today offer the Sunshine Coast community a world-class educational opportunity—an internationally valued International Baccalaureate (IB) education.

With challenging educational programmes, a reputation for high academic standards and a set of learning outcomes designed for 21st century needs, an IB education is valued around the world.

Mountain Creek State High School (MCSHS) and Good Shepherd Lutheran College in Noosa are IB World Schools and, after a rigorous authorisation process, have earned the right to offer IB programmes to their school community.

Good Shepherd Lutheran College was accredited in 2012 and teaches the Primary Years Programme while MCSHS offers the IB Diploma Programme to Year 11 and 12 students.

WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE? The International Baccalaureate Organisation is a not-for-profit organisation and offers four programmes for schools under its

24

NOV/DEC 2016

motto “education for a better world”: • The Primary Years Programme (PYP) as offered by Good Shepherd Lutheran College is aimed at students three to 12 years old, developing active, caring life-long learners.

• The Middle Years Programme (MYP) encourages 11 to 16-year olds to make connections between their studies and the real world.

• The IB Diploma is the pre-university programme aimed at Year 11 and Year 12 students.

• The Career-Related Programme, introduced in 2012, is aimed at students seeking work and study.

Already embracing the move towards international mindedness with its successful International Student Programme, MCSHS started down the IB pathway in 2003 seeking an education programme that was truly international; that would allow our Sunshine Coast students to stand amongst students in UK, Sweden, Canada, China and around the world. The school sought to prepare students for success at university and beyond, for success in the 21st century and beyond.

In 2006, the first 42 graduates—the first IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) graduates from a Queensland government school—donned the black academic gown and diploma cap and celebrated in front and family and community. It was the beginning of what has become a point of difference for MCSHS.

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discover their potential at CCC

Every Day is Open Day at Caloundra Christian College!

g Thrivin C @ GSL

Your child won’t look back

Book a tour today www.calcc.qld.edu.au 07 5436 6777

Celebrates 10 Years 2006 - 2016

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47 Lomond Cres, Caloundra West QLD 4551 - PH: 07 5490 5777 - www.uc.qld.edu.au kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

/unitycollegecaloundra NOV/DEC 2016

25

[EDUCATION]

In the IBDP, students are encouraged to develop breadth and depth of knowledge and to flourish physically, emotionally, intellectually and ethically. It is truly international, with a curriculum relevant for and taught around the world in first world cities and rural communities, in private, government funded and not-for-profit schools, across five continents and in over 4,500 schools worldwide. In 2015 over 136,000 students took their Diploma Programme exams with over 2,300 of those in Australian schools.

The IB at MCSHS attracts students from our academic junior school Zenith Programme, students from overseas who may not have the opportunity to attend an IB school in their own country, families returning from overseas who may have experienced an IB education, families new to Australia, and also students from the broader Sunshine Coast community.

Preparation for the IB pathway begins in Year 10 with a strategically designed year-long programme designed to mirror the IBDP in teaching and learning methodologies and assessment types, while working with students to develop those skills required for success in the Diploma Programme and beyond at university and in life itself.

WHY CHOOSE THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE? Families thinking about having their child take part in the IB programme are often seeking that educational advantage that comes with an international curriculum. They understand the advantage at university of having experience of rigorous external exams, a marking system that seeks the knowledge of subject experts worldwide, and a teaching and learning culture that incorporates the best educational practices from around the world.

In addition to the academics, IB programmes encourage inquiry, caring, reflection, ethical consideration, open-mindedness, intercultural understanding, and the development of attitudes necessary to respect and evaluate a range of viewpoints. It is through the core component Creativity Action Service (CAS) that students are really challenged to move outside of their comfort

zone. Being creative, being active and being of service is a core part of the IB Diploma programme. Students take on a service project to develop empathy, and to try to make a difference in areas where they see the need. For example, students this year introduced Living below the Line, an awareness and fundraising programme supported by non-governmental organisation Oaktree to provide educational opportunities for young girls in Cambodia.

Another young Year 10 student, after spending three years with her family in Bali, is extending to this community an invitation to help with the building and set up of the Sakti Library in Bali.

Over the last three years, Year 11 students have been involved with the Stanley River Environment Centre to monitor water quality and land use in the Somerset Dam, and Stanley and Brisbane Rivers.

Over this period of time the students have collected and compared data and engaged with the Jinibara, the indigenous people of this area in an attempt to understand land use, indigenous perspectives and the long history of this land. For six years the school has been involved with Relay for Life—a Cancer Council initiative where students participate in an overnight relay with a moving vigil for survivors and for those who have lost their fight against cancer.

Students are also encouraged to get active and their sporting activities, whether school or community based, recreational or representative, are acknowledged and recognised in the Action strand of CAS. These include the student who represented Australia in soccer, and the self-described ‘not the sporty type girl’ who took up tennis for CAS last year and has played for two hours every week since and loves it. The surf-life saver, the long distance swimmer and the dog walker are all setting goals and improving their health and fitness.

Likewise, creativity, an attribute so often described as that ‘X-factor’

by CEOs looking to recruit, is encouraged and acknowledged. While that creativity can take the form of playing a musical instrument or learning a new technique in art, is can also lend itself to marketing, creatively solving an issue or creating a service project.

“...IB PROGRAMMES ENCOURAGE INQUIRY, CARING, REFLECTION, ETHICAL CONSIDERATION, OPEN-MINDEDNESS, INTERCULTURAL UNDERSTANDING...”

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[EDUCATION]

“…UNIVERSITIES WORLDWIDE, INCLUDING THE UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND, SEEK ENROLMENT FROM IB STUDENTS AND OFFER OPPORTUNITIES TO ACCELERATE AN IB GRADUATE’S STUDIES.” A TRULY INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE Further, as a commitment to internationalism, language learning and service, the IB faculty is committed to offering students an international travel opportunity each year. At the end of 2015, students and two teachers from MCSHS adventured to Laos and Vietnam on a four week World Challenge, combining a three-day trek up Mount Fansipan with helping to build a facility in a remote rural community in Laos. The students creatively planned and managed everything from the itinerary, to modes of transport and the finances.

In September 2016, another hardy crew travelled to Argentina to immerse themselves in the language and culture of Spanish speaking Argentina. Combining some sightseeing including glacier trekking and exploration of the capital Buenos Aires, the major focus of the experience was language and cultural immersion in Cordoba, Argentina’s second city. Here, students attended IB school San Pedro Apostol, home stayed with families from the community and then volunteered in a small rural primary school.

A teacher reflected: “When the Australian flag flies beside the Argentinian flag in a rural school in Casa Grande, central Argentina and the sounds of Advance Australia Fair are followed by a resounding chorus of the Argentinian National Anthem; when wideeyed children try their very best ‘my name is…’, then ask ¿Cuál es tu nombre?; when a single rugby ball, a few cups of brightly coloured paints, a meal of empanadas and chorizo sandwiches and a shared rendition of a Beatles classic bring smiles and laughs, you know that young people around the world have more in common than not and therein lies our common humanity.”

The IB philosophy permeating through its programmes from PYP and MYP values learning in all its forms: through experimentation, research, exploration, questioning, through experience, discussion and reflection. When an IB student begins an assignment, they begin with a question, their own question. They determine in consultation with their teacher what they want to explore and the direction of their investigation using the methodology of the subject. So a history student may ask, “To what extent was

there a governmental suppression of knowledge regarding the consequences of nuclear testing held at Maralinga from 1955 to 1956?” Furthermore, a maths student might embark on an investigation to determine the effect on the area between the curve, the x-axis and the first two roots when the right-most root is increased by a value of c; A psychology student might consider, “To what extent does the time of day influence an adolescent’s ability to learn?” And in biology, another might question “To what extent do increased concentrations of nitrates in Australian waterways pose a threat to local ecosystems?”

MCSHS also offers tuition in Spanish and Japanese but will support students in the development of their mother tongue. To date, students have taken exams in Russian, Dutch, German, French and Chinese.

The IB will support registration and offer exams in many languages to encourage students to maintain connection with their mother tongue.

At MCSHS, IB classes are run separately to those that cover the Queensland, and soon to be introduced Australian, curriculum. IB teachers teach across both systems but have undergone IB training in their subject areas. The teachers come to the programme with an expertise in their subject area but soon develop the skills required to prepare students for an exam based assessment system and inquiry based learning.

Universities in Australia and overseas value IB graduates.

The University of Queensland claims that IBDP graduates are “incredibly well prepared for success.” The program’s “international flavour, academic rigour and emphasis on enquiry-based learning means IB graduates will enter university with a global outlook, an excellent work ethic and critical thinking skills”. Consequently universities worldwide, including the University of Queensland, seek enrolment from IB students and offer opportunities to accelerate an IB graduate’s studies.

So this year, when IB students graduate and venture into the world, their pathways will be as diverse as their interests and, as we have seen historically, they will seek entry into universities around Australia and, for some, around the world.

Trisha Valentine is head of department/IB co-ordinator at Mountain Creek State High School.

To find out more about the school’s IB programme, visit https://mtncreekshs.eq.edu.au.

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PREP 372 Mons Road, Forest Glen, Queensland 4556 Australia telephone + 61 7 5445 4444 facsimile + 61 7 5445 4345 email enquire@scgs.qld.edu.au web www.scgs.qld.edu.au A School of the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association

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NOV/DEC 2016

29

[TALK]

SURVIVING SCH OL HOLIDAYS…

in paradise

LET’S BE HONEST, WE SHOULD BE PRETTY PROUD OF WHERE WE LIVE. BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, AMAZING OUTDOOR ADVENTURES, THEME PARKS, MUSEUMS, SHOPPING, AND ENDLESS SUNSHINE. YES, OUR LITTLE POCKET OF PARADISE REALLY IS A HOLIDAY MECCA. YET, DESPITE THAT, SCHOOL HOLIDAYS STILL CREATE A SIZEABLE SLICE OF DREAD IN MANY HOUSEHOLDS. HOW WILL WE COUNTER-ATTACK THE INEVITABLE SCREENTIME PLEADING? DO I REALLY WANT TO MANAGE MULTIPLE KIDS AROUND A BUSY THEME PARK? AND CAN MY NERVES TOLERATE THE INEVITABLE TANTRUMS THAT WILL RAGE WHEN IT IS TIME TO LEAVE THE BEACH? Yes, although our sunny coast is a heavenly place to live, school holidays are often just another tough day of parenting, and no amount of sandcastles will offset the inevitable toddler battles. So, with the eight-week break looming six local parents share their secrets on how they plan on surviving the long school holidays in paradise!

Keira,

Gold Coast

I lower my expectations. A lot. After all, whenever I take the kids anywhere awesome (i.e. expensive), the main thing they remember is usually the play park and the ice cream. So I find something simple that they will enjoy, and that I don’t mind doing, and simply settle for that. After all, even average entertainment around here is still pretty good!

Mick,

Brisbane

Our house survives just by sharing the load. We both work, so we both shuffle our hours, taking turns to handle the mayhem of home. I tend to take the kids out bike riding, whilst my wife tends to be more cultural and hit the museums or just give the kids some much-needed downtime. It’s not easy, but I try to remember that I used to love summer holidays as a kid, and I want my kids to have the same memories.

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Tracey,

Sunshine Coast

I find I have to have a plan. Those days when you don’t know what you are doing, then it’s 11am and you really need to get the kids out of the house before they kill each other? Don’t let it happen, have a plan.

That, and wine.

Louise,

Brisbane

In our family, taking turns is key. First day, Child 1 gets to choose something they like, within a certain budget. The next day, the next child has a turn. I insist that all kids take part, or at least have a go in everything that we do, which means the boys sometimes have to get involved in craft and the girls also head to the skate park. And we never do activities two days in a row. We have one day at home between every excursion— both to break it up, and to give the wallet a breather.

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Sam,

Gold Coast

We particularly struggle at school holidays as we have no family nearby. So survival for us is down to play dates. Lots of them. I find having friends over stops the sibling battles, so I’d rather have more kids than just my own! Then we can trade and my kids go for a play date at someone else’s house!

Alex,

Sunshine Coast

We are really lucky that we have a beach within an easy walk, so a lot of the summer holiday struggles are easily remedied with a swim and a sandcastle. I do sometimes try to take them further afield—such as the zoo, or for a trip to the city and to check out the museums and attractions in Brisbane—but the beach is definitely the one thing that gets us through the eight weeks! And best of all, it’s free!

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NOV/DEC 2016

31

[YOU]

Home alone

by MADONNA HIRNING

IT’S EASY TO AVOID PUTTING LITTLE ‘STRESS RELEASE’ BUFFERS INTO OUR LIVES, AND WE TEND TO SOLDIER ON REGARDLESS OF HOW TIRED OR FRAZZLED WE MAY BE FEELING. BUT RECHARGING OURSELVES AND OUR PARTNERS OCCASIONALLY—TO STRENGTHEN OUR ENJOYMENT OF FAMILY LIFE, AND OUR ENJOYMENT OF EACH OTHER—SOMETIMES NEEDS TO COME FIRST. Recently my husband and I celebrated thirteen long (and of course wonderful!) years together, and as it’s been a difficult year due to a combination of factors, we decided we needed a weekend away.

We’re lucky enough to have very willing grandparents nearby, who are only too happy to have the toddler of the house come for sleepovers. In fact the only hassle is getting him back at the end.

I was thinking we’d book into a flash hotel or romantic B’n’B, but for various reasons my husband talked me into having a weekend away… at home!

Sounds a bit of a non-event, you may be thinking—and so was I. Lying awake at 2am on the Saturday morning, I was tempted to get out of bed, jump onto the internet and find a last-minute accommodation package. However, I resisted (the thought of actually having to get out of bed might have had something to do with it)… and was glad I did, as the weekend actually turned out to be just what we needed.

In hindsight I was really pleased we hadn’t spent a large part of our weekend packing, driving and unpacking for the sake of having one night away. Here on the Coast we have so much to choose from within easy reach of our front door, so having a holiday at home makes perfect sense.

Of course, once you have one and are sufficiently relaxed, you could always apply the same principles and have a holiday at home with the kids… you may just want to amend the activities slightly!

Our adventure began when the little person was safely delivered to Grandma and Grandad’s house. We executed our

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escape and made haste to the Eumundi markets and had a leisurely browse. After photographing the camels (for He-Who-Was-LeftBehind), we moved on to Kenilworth, lured by thoughts of cheese direct from the factory.

After tasting everything twice, and some things three times just to be sure, we emerged loaded down with cheeses and yoghurt. Of course it was only the right and natural thing to do to check out the winery around the corner! Our weekend continued with a massage, decadent dinner, a romantic candlelit evening, late breakfast at a café, walk on the beach and seafood lunch, followed by an afternoon nap. Bliss!

Holiday-at-home rules

P If possible, organise an overnight stay for children with friends or family that both you and the kids know very well, so that you can switch off and enjoy.

P If not, then arrange for some babysitting during the day at least, or have your ‘weekend’ during the week when you can get childcare.

P No house/yard work or computer time.

P No phone calls/texting (except to check on the little people).

P No television.

P Set a budget to do all the things you wouldn’t normally do without worrying about the money (think of the money you are saving on accommodation).

P Set a loose itinerary of things you would like to do in the surrounding area—but be flexible.

P Eat out or get takeaways if possible, unless you enjoy cooking together, and if so then use paper plates to keep washing-up to a minimum!

Most of all just relax and enjoy the quiet time with each other and allow yourselves to unwind and reconnect.

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While you’re out and about, you may find yourself casting a few longing glances at happy families, but you’ll also enjoy being able to simply talk to one another without having to soothe a crying child, answer a question, find a lost item or fix a broken toy.

After so much self-absorption, we couldn’t wait to be reunited with our boy. With our batteries recharged, we were happy to be swept up in the noise and fun and deliciousness that small children carry with them, but which can get lost or masquerade as annoyances in the daily grind.

Our weekend ‘away’ was a great success, didn’t cost that much, and left us feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world once more. Hopefully you’ll be inspired to try something similar at your place!

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33

[SPECIAL]

A Brave Heart Lizzie Velasquez

by KERRY WHITE

HOW ONE INSPIRATIONAL YOUNG WOMAN WENT FROM CYBERBULLY VICTIM TO ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL ANTI-BULLYING CAMPAIGNERS IN THE WORLD. “Kill it with fire!” “Do everyone a favour and kill yourself!”

Imagine if you logged on to your computer one day to find those callous statements on one of your social media pages. That’s exactly what happened to Lizzie Velasquez.

she was, or who she would become. She took that hatred—from complete strangers who didn’t even know her—and channelled it into feelings of power and positivity that saw Lizzie, now 26, emerge as one of the world’s leading anti-bullying activists.

A new documentary, A Brave Heart – The Lizzie Velasquez Story, follows her inspiring journey from bullying victim to anti-bullying campaigner. Part of the documentary focuses on Lizzie’s attempts to get a new bill passed in the US government that could help victims of bullying. The Safe Schools Improvement Act would ensure that schools prohibit bullying and harassment in their codes of conduct, and would have to record instances of bullying and harassment in their annual school safety reports. At the time of writing, this bill still hadn’t been passed.

Lizzie was born with an extremely rare condition that prevented her from gaining weight and made her look different from the other kids at school. After suffering bullying through her early school years, she was beginning to be accepted as a teenager, joining the cheerleading team and making friends, when the bullying started again. And this time, she couldn’t escape from it when she got home. It was online, for everyone to see, including Lizzie from the sanctuary of her own bedroom. She found a short video of herself on YouTube, dubbed ‘The World’s Ugliest Woman’. It had had thousands of views, and had generated thousands of hateful comments from cyberbullies.

“Unfortunately the bill still hasn’t gotten enough votes to be put to the floor.” Lizzie says. “I think what’s most important right now is the need for awareness of the bill. Not many people know

However, while this was clearly a low point in Lizzie’s life, she refused to let that determine who

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We are currently looking for people with patience, understanding and maturity to care for children in need.

Our foster carers receive extensive training, have access to 24 hour support and work closely with our care team to make a difference in the lives of children and young people who need extra support.

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NOV/DEC 2016

35

[SPECIAL]

“Know that when it comes to the internet, with the good comes the bad.

Not everyone will have something nice to say.

If you ever feel like it’s too much, take a break from social media and do something positive.” ~ Lizzie Velasquez

WHAT CAN YOU DO IF YOUR CHILD IS BEING CYBERBULLIED? The Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner (www.esafety.gov.au) defines cyberbullying as: • Abusive texts and emails • Hurtful messages, images or videos • Imitating others online • Excluding others online

about it and I believe what is important is the personal stories of children being bullied in school.”

• Humiliating others online

In the film, we meet the mother of Megan Meier, a 13-year-old girl who hanged herself in her wardrobe after being bullied online.

Lizzie says cyberbullying is a real problem for today’s children and something needs to be done about it to prevent more lives being affected, or even taken.

According to the Queensland government, around one in 10 young people experience cyberbullying at least every few weeks (see www.qld.gov.au/youth/family-socialsupport/bullying-facts/). Most victims of cyberbullying have suicidal thoughts and low self-esteem (according to www.nobullying.com).

So, what advice does Lizzie have for someone who experiences cyberbullying? “Know that when it comes to the internet, with the good comes the bad,” she says. “Not everyone will have something nice to say. If you ever feel like it’s too much, take a break from social media and do something positive.”

She also says parents and carers play a big role in tackling the problem with their own children: “Keeping a healthy conversation open with your child about the good and not so good days is key.”

Lizzie has taken her anti-bullying message around the world. She also received a standing ovation for her influential TEDx Talk (www. youtube.com/watch?v=c62Aqdlzvqk), which has been viewed in excess of 10.5 million times.

Lizzie has just finished writing her new book and is looking forward to sharing it with everyone in 2017.

To find out more about the documentary A Brave Heart - The Lizzie Velasquez Story, visit http://imwithlizzie.com/ or www.facebook.com/aboutlizzie.

Useful websites and phone lines

• Nasty online gossip and chat

It’s a good idea to try and keep an open dialogue with your children about what they are looking at online. While they probably won’t want you looking over their shoulder, make it clear that you are there if they have any concerns. The Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner provides some good tips for children who are experiencing cyberbullying, including: • Talking to someone they trust straight away, like a parent, sibling, uncle/aunt, teacher or friend, or contact Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.

• Resisting the urge to retaliate or respond, as the bullies might use it against them.

• Blocking the bully and changing their privacy settings.

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter all have information on their sites about how to do this.

• Reporting the abuse to the site. Again, most social media sites have instructions on how to do this.

• Collecting the evidence: keep mobile phone messages, take screen shots and print emails or social networking conversations.

• Stepping away from the computer and do something they enjoy, like catching up with friends, listening to music, or watching television.

THE OFFICE OF THE CHILDREN’S ESAFETY COMMISSIONER Helping young people have safe, positive experiences online. www.esafety.gov.au/esafety-information/esafety-issues/cyberbullying

NOBULLYING.COM Bullying and cyberbullying facts and advice. https://nobullying.com KIDS HELPLINE Free online or phone counselling for young people aged 5 to 25. www.kidshelpline.com.au/kids/get-help/webchat-counselling or 1800 55 1800

EHEADSPACE Supporting young people and their families who are going through a tough time. www.eheadspace.org.au

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[PARTY]

Local mumpreneurs creating MAGIC together

by CHEVAUNE HINDLEY

When we become a parent, particularly a mum, there are a million little shifts that occur in our lives and within ourselves. As a result, we find that new doors open and exciting opportunities present themselves. There is a growing number of mumpreneurs who are seizing these opportunities, with the goal to gain flexibility, additional family income and personal fulfillment.

In an effort to extend their reach and build stronger networks, as well as create beautiful things together, these clever, hardworking mums are increasingly coming together to collaborate—pooling their resources to run amazing events that fuel creativity and fulfill personal ambitions, as well as develop truly inspiring support networks.

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A few local mumpreneurs recently did just this, coming together to create a magical styled children’s woodland party, in a bid to show other mums (and dads!) how easy it can be to inject some fun and creativity into their own—and their children’s lives! By pooling available resources on a small budget they put together a party, which was both beautiful and fun for the kids. And with just a bit of thought and preparation (and a rummage through your local op-shop), any mum or dad can do it!

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[PARTY]

Pick a theme First things first, pick a theme and stick to it. This will save you both time and money. By picking a theme, it will allow you to focus your ideas and keep you on track. You can start by asking your child what their favourite thing is to do (since it’s their day), or be led by a gift that they’re receiving.

First bike? Make it a bikes and trikes party. All you need then is to seek inspiration on creative websites like Pinterest, and get pinning.

Particularly for kid’s parties, where there are sugarinduced children running amok, it’s definitely a good idea to focus that energy into an activity or craft. At this Woodlands shoot, the children were given decorated boxes and told to ‘forage for forest finds’. Once they had filled their baskets, they could then use their finds to make a framed collage to take home as a keepsake, rather than the traditional lolly-filled bag. Not only does it keep the kids busy, but also the parents will thank you for not sending them home with more sugar.

Craft time

Introduce fancy dress A great idea to unify your party goers and build on your the theme, is to encourage your guests to get on board and dress accordingly. Not only will it enhance the atmosphere, but it will also look great in the photos. Stick a little note on the invitation to ask guests to get involved, and maybe stock up on some extra dress-up props for anyone who may have missed the memo.

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NOV/DEC 2016

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[PARTY]

Get thrifty Kids parties can get quite expensive. Particularly when it comes to parents, whose emotional strings are tugged at and are suddenly purchasing a custom made piñata from Mexico for $200. One of the best things you can do is hit up all of your local thrift stores. You never know what you may find. Ladders, lace curtains, a vintage dresser to use as a candy stall... there are so many possibilities. Warning: If you haven't done this before, it can be slightly addictive!

For some further inspiration and thrifty places to shop, here are a few fantastic sites to check out: q pinterest.com q pinkfrosting.com.au q paperdivas.com.au q gumtree.com.au q facebook.com/sunshinecoastbuyswapsell

Easy DIY food There’s no need to fork out hundreds of dollars or spend endless hours in the kitchen, in order to cater food that both looks and tastes great. There are an abundance of no-bake recipes available out there, which you can adapt to your theme and can delegate to family and friends to make for you, on a limited budget.

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No-Bake Chocolate Wands & No-Bake Choco Ingredients

1 block white or milk chocolate (approx 220g) 1 pkt bread sticks Colourful sprinkles or edible glitter

Microwave chocolate in a heat proof bowl until melted, stirring every 30 seconds.

Carefully pour melted chocolate into a high, narrow container or glass.

Dip breadsticks into chocolate to cover approximately half of the bread stick.

Allow chocolate to settle on stick before rolling over a layer of colourful sprinkles.

Allow to set standing up and refrigerate if you want to speed up the process.

Microwave chocolate in a heat proof bowl until melted, stirring every 30 seconds.

Stir in the crunchy noodles and mix until fully coated.

Spoon the mix into patty cases and mould into birds’ nests with the ends of two teaspoons.

Refrigerate for 1 hour.

Fill with your choice of eggs.

Ingredients 1 block white or milk chocolate (approx 220g) 1 pkt original fried noodles (Find in your local supermarket Maltesers / chocolate eggs / M&M’s / jelly beans

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

[PARTY]

Create separate areas

Clever mamas Props, styling & styling tips Old.Rope 0423 007 944 www.instagram.com/old.rope Photography & article Chevaune Hindley 0417 673 960 www.chevaunehindley.com Flowers Poppy Lane Flowers By Design 0430 324 004 www.poppylaneflowersbydesign.com.au

This is a tip that works for all types of events, whether it is for a 1st or 50th birthday. By creating separate areas within your venue, you’re allowing moments to happen naturally. A photo booth is a great example of this, or perhaps a craft corner or comfy cushioned tee-pee. It’s an easy way of calming what could possibly be a chaotic few hours. It also allows your guests to entertain themselves with these organised activities, allowing you to focus on being the ‘hostess with the most-ess’.

Kids’ shoes Supplied by Little Treads 07 3379 8696 www.littletreads.com.au Food Styling Lizzy Keim

Outsource

Party planning can be pretty stressful, which is why you need to delegate.

Whether it’s enlisting Grandma to bake some of her famous sweets, having Uncle John blow up 60 balloons, or perhaps purchasing pre-made party packs online. Every little job you can delegate or outsource will be giving back time to yourself, so that you can focus on any other tasks at hand.

colate Birds' Nests

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

NOV/DEC 2016

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[WELLBEING]

Keeping pregnancy natural

by NIKKI WARREN

YAY, YOU’RE PREGNANT! CONGRATULATIONS ON WHAT IS SURE TO BE THE MOST EXCITING ADVENTURE OF YOUR LIFE! During pregnancy, many women face a common dilemma—they suffer from the many pregnancy side effects, but they really want to avoid taking any artificial medicines. Thankfully, there are many natural remedies out there to help a pregnancy go as smoothly, and as healthily as possible. We get the low down from Sunshine Coast naturopath Nikki Warren on her best-kept secrets to a natural pregnancy.

MORNING SICKNESS Any woman who has suffered from morning sickness knows that it is absolutely debilitating. It affects a woman’s ability to work and has a psychological, emotional and social impact on women and their families. Up to 85 per cent of women suffer from morning sickness which varies from mild nausea to severe nausea and vomiting several times a day, otherwise known as hyperemesis gravidarum.

There are several known factors which can increase the likelihood of morning sickness, some are unavoidable such as being aged less than 24, carrying a female foetus or more than one foetus, but some are avoidable. Iron supplements are known to worsen the symptoms of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and unfortunately a large majority of prenatal supplements contain iron. This is because iron supplementation is essential later on in pregnancy due to the increase in blood volume, however, in the first trimester iron supplementation is usually unnecessary, especially if a woman has followed a preconception care plan and boosted her iron levels prior to conception.

The pregnancy hormone, HCG, stimulates a woman’s thyroid and this is known to aggravate the symptoms of morning sickness.

The recommended daily intake of iodine in pregnancy is 220 micrograms, but if this amount is taken in the first trimester it is possible that her thyroid could become overstimulated and

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lead to an increase in nausea and/or vomiting. The World Health Organisation recommends that all pregnant women should take 150 micrograms of iodine daily.

There are a few factors that can help ease the symptoms of morning sickness. 75mg of vitamin B6 taken daily has been found in several randomised controlled trials to reduce the frequency and severity of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. The type of vitamin B6 often used in supplements is the form containing pyridoxine hydrochloride rather than the activated form, pyridoxal-5-phosphate (the type that naturally occurs in food). People who lack pyridoxal kinase (the enzyme that converts pyridoxine hydrochloride to pyridoxal-5’-phosphate) need to take pyridoxal-5’-phosphate instead. Pyridoxal kinase is activated by zinc and magnesium so a lack of those minerals also inhibits conversion.

Stabilising blood sugar helps reduce morning sickness symptoms and aside from eating frequently, preferably every two hours, there are several nutrients you can supplement with which help to maintain blood sugar levels including chromium, biotin and alpha lipoic acid.

Other nutrients involved in carbohydrate metabolism include vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, magnesium, manganese and zinc.

Ginger is a traditional remedy for morning sickness and has been shown in several studies to be effective. Chewing on crystallised ginger or drinking ginger tea during the day may help to ease symptoms and chamomile or peppermint tea may also be helpful.

Try snacking on almonds and other nuts to stabilise blood sugar and eat foods high in chromium such as apples, raisins, nuts and cheese. It’s also a good idea to eat something high in protein just before bedtime to help prevent blood sugar from dipping too low overnight. Nuts or yoghurt are especially helpful. Keep some crackers or ginger biscuits next to your bed to eat before getting up in the morning.

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A midwife, a lactation consultant and a medicare rebate.

Kuluin Early Learning Centre “Committed to caring for your child”

An award winning service invites you to CALL US TODAY to enquire about our Kindergarten / River Kindy program and Early Learning Centre.

Government approved Kindergarten program including fortnightly River Kindy excursions to Chamber’s Island providing children with valuable learning opportunities in a natural local environment.

Ante natal & post natal care including: • Lactation support • Latch assessment & frenulum assessment • Oral examination including suck assessment • Treatment of frenulums when necessary.

M 0419 729 621 E brigid@yourownmidwife.com.au www.yourownmidwife.com.au

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Kids on the Coast - Kids in the City

N RI

As South East Queensland's most trusted parenting hub, we speak to parents every day about issues that matter.

Connecting parents with local business, Kids on the Coast / Kids in the City is the first place parents go for local information.

CONNECTING your BRAND with MUMS every day

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[WELLBEING]

MAINTAINING GOOD HEALTH DURING PREGNANCY Some nutrients are effectively stored in the mother’s body and the baby will draw on those stores as needed, for example, iron or calcium which can be drawn from the mother’s bones. Of course, this impacts the mother’s long term health if she doesn’t replace those nutrients, which is why a preconception care plan is vital to ensure good body stores of nutrients prior to pregnancy.

Other nutrients such as zinc and iodine are not stored effectively in the body and need to be obtained from the diet on a daily basis.

Making sure that she is eating the right amount of several different food types can become a bit of a chore for the mother, and although supplementation does not replace a balanced diet, it is a good insurance policy to ensure the mother’s and baby’s needs are adequately met.

A good supply of nutrients during pregnancy can help prevent conditions after the baby is born such as postnatal depression. Studies have shown that women who suffer this condition have high levels of copper (which rises naturally during pregnancy) and low levels of zinc.

Zinc is one of the most important minerals during the entire preconception, prenatal and postnatal period and is depleted by taking high doses of iron supplements, which can be found in prenatal supplements or prescribed during pregnancy.

TIPS FOR A CALMER LABOUR Zinc deficiency greatly affects a women’s labour as studies have shown sufficient zinc is vital for an on-time, quick labour, less tearing and less likelihood of cracked nipples during breastfeeding.

It has also been found that zinc-deficient babies cry excessively and are difficult to console. This is hardly surprising as zinc is required for more than 300 enzyme reactions including serotonin and GABA synthesis, two neurotransmitters involved in keeping us calm and happy.

There are several other naturopathic remedies that can be utilised during labour—Perfect Potion Birthing Oil which can be massaged into the mother’s back during contractions, Rescue Remedy to help relieve anxiety and high dose Arnica to help reduce swelling and treat the symptoms of shock post-labour.

Nikki Warren is an experienced fertility naturopath, herbalist and doula on the Sunshine Coast who has recently launched her new supplement range Naturopath’s Best, available at Livelife Pharmacies. Visit www.naturalreproductivecare.com.au

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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.

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

NOV/DEC 2016

45

[CHRISTMAS]

Have a merry Coasty Christmas!

HO HO HO! WITH CHRISTMAS JUST AROUND THE CORNER, HERE ARE SOME OF THE BEST FESTIVE EVENTS HAPPENING ACROSS THE SUNSHINE COAST.

DECEMBER 2 – 3

DECEMBER 10

DECEMBER 17

CHRISTMAS IN COOROY

BUDERIM COMMUNITY CAROLS

13TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE

Kids, parents, grandparents! Everyone is invited to this much loved, heart warming, Buderim Christmas event. From Jingle Bells to Hark the Herald Angels, enjoy a good old fashioned singalong with the community.

A wonderful visual display of light and festivities on The Wharf Mooloolaba, to celebrate the Christmas season and help create a brighter future for people with a disability. www.christmasboatparade.net

DECEMBER 10

DECEMBER 2, 9, 16, 23

TREE HOUSE INITIATIVES ALL ABILITIES CHRISTMAS PARTY

EUMUNDI NIGHT MARKETS

The lighting of Cooroy's Christmas Tree has become a tradition for many residents, marking the beginning of the festive season. Events the next day include music, games and carols, and even snow blowers for a bit of added fun! www.christmasincooroy.com.au

DECEMBER 9 & 17

ALL WRAPPED UP, AUSSIE WORLD With Christmas theming and light displays, All Wrapped Up offers 2.5 hours of rides, a Christmas theme menu, entertainment and a snow entrance. www.aussieworld.com.au

DECEMBER 9

NAMBOUR COMMUNITY CAROLS Enjoy a wonderful Christmas celebration with live entertainment, fireworks and fun, from 5pm at the Nambour Showgrounds.

Bring a rug, a chair and your best singing voice! There will be food stalls, fireworks, local performances, free rides and a Christmas concert starting at 6.30pm. www.events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

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Get excited for the 3rd annual Treehouse Initiative Christmas Party for children of all ages and abilities. Activities will include bouncy castles, face painting, sideshow alley, food, show bags and much more! www.thetreehouseinitiative.org.au

DECEMBER 10

CAROLS AT COTTON TREE A lovely Christmas event at Cotton Tree Park, with entertainment, food stalls, coffee, fireworks and a visit from Santa. Bring a blanket or chair. From 4:30pm. www.facebook.com/carolsatcottontree

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

The market precinct will be lit up with Christmas lights, Santa will arrive at 6.30pm, coming in on the Eumundi Fire Truck, and there will be colourful street performers and fire shows each night. Movie lovers will enjoy the free family outdoor movies screening each week from around 7pm.

BYO blanket to get comfy on the grass. www.eumundimarkets.com.au

!

ow n e n i l n o Read

Christmas Gift GUIDE - 2016 -

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au www.kidsinthecity.com.au

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GOES LIVE

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Sunshine Coast - Brisbane - Gold Coast

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

Fill up your holiday calendars … read online

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NOV/DEC 2016

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Visit ou r website!

Nov/Dec 2016

WEB WRAP UP Here’s what you’ve loved on www.kidsonthecoast.com.au & www.kidsinthecity.com.au

LOCAL 6 STUNNING ISLAND DAY TRIPS IN SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND

mother

kids on

MEDIA PUBLISHED BY Mother Goose Media PTY LTD PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562 admin@mothergoosemedia.com.au www.mothergoosemedia.com.au Uniquely connected to our local market and with a devotion to our community we exist to bring an abundance of high quality content – news, events, features and lifestyle – to parents across South East Queensland. Fresh, modern and always evolving, this is THE place for local parents to be united, be understood and be inspired.

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PUBLISHER Toni Eggleston

EDUCATION NATURE’S CLASSROOM: THE RISE OF OUTDOOR-BASED EDUCATION

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WELLBEING DOES YOUR CHILD STILL WET THE BED?

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Visit our website to get to know us!

ADVERTISING Phone 1300 430 320 or email SUNSHINE COAST: advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au GOLD COAST: gc@kidsonthecoast.com.au

THINGS TO DO 12 EASY KID-FRIENDLY WALKS

LIFE STORY LIFE IS A REAL JUGGLING ACT FOR CIRCUS MOTHER

BRISBANE: advertising@kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au JANUARY/FEBRUARY BOOKING DEADLINES Ad booking: December 7. Art deadline: December 12

DISTRIBUTION Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across South East Queensland. Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast.

Gold Coast Distribution: T.H.E Brochure Service 1300 655 418. wwwthebrochureservice.com.au For distribution enquiries phone: 1300 430 320 or email: admin@mothergoosemedia.com.au

TECH CODING FOR KIDS: BUILD YOUR FIRST COMPUTER GAME

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BABIES HOW CAN I REDUCE THE RISK OF FOOD ALLERGIES IN MY CHILD?

- on the coast

- in the city

All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications are published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Kids on the Coast is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Feedback/ comments/suggestions? Send to: publications@mothergoosemedia.com.au.

We aim to reply to all correspondence.

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- on the coast

- in the city

[LOCAL LIFE]

In the fast lane Holly Espray WITH HER SIGHTS SET ON V8, SPEED-DEMON HOLLY ESPRAY FROM SIPPY DOWNS IS TURNING HEADS WITH HER PERFORMANCES AT RACE TRACKS AROUND THE COUNTRY. HERE THE 13-YEAR-OLD TELLS US MORE ABOUT HER LOVE OF MOTORSPORT. When did you develop a love of racing? I was young, maybe six.

Dad bought two dirt go karts. We spent hours racing around and fixing them. One day I beat Dad fair and square! I loved the feeling of competing and winning.

How old were you when you started karting? I had my first go kart race when I was seven and began racing regularly at nine. I was also racing BMX bikes at this time. I got quite good and I have even beaten the world number one! I placed second in Victoria and won races against the boys.

You started racing at Lakeside Parkway earlier this year. How did you feel during your first ever race lap? I was a bit nervous, but after the race started I was just like, “Let's do this!” The other cars were faster, so it was a race to not get lapped. My second race meeting was totally different. The Lakeside 300 was a 116 lap race! I started second in class and battled on for 55 laps before coming in, re-fuelling the car and dad jumping in to finish the race. We placed third in class.

What car do you race at the moment? I am lucky enough to have three! I started off in a BMW 323i. It was a road registered car that we converted. I began sprinting it, then we slowly removed the interior and fitted a roll cage, etc. I also have a Formula Ford race car that I'm hoping to race next year in the QLD Formula Ford series. I had my first drive in it at Lakeside, it's very different to the BMW! We also picked up an old Excel race car and fixed it up.

I Rally crossed it, which was mad but I'm hoping to do it again!

You must have a pretty hectic schedule. How do you fit in school work?Most of my school work I just do at school, but if I have to complete something at home, then I have about half an hour before getting back to car stuff!

Where do you see yourself in five years’ time? I can see myself in a V8 Supercar, racing in the main game series.

Your dad is a former racer. What does he think about your ambitions? Dad is realistic. He's told me I can do it, but it's not talent alone.

Do your friends come to watch you race? Sometimes, but most of them don't fully understand what I'm doing, they just think it's cool that I can drive a car!

Who inspires you? The person I look up to most is Shane Van Gisbergen. He always seems to be driving his hardest. He drives lots of different types of cars all around the world.

How can people get involved? I’m currently looking for some financial sponsorship for next year, to help with the ongoing costs of motorsport. If you are able to help out, you can contact my dad at richardespray@hotmail.com. Also, please check out my Facebook page, Holly Espray Racing (www.facebook.com/ hollyesprayracing).

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

NOV/DEC 2016

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Movies FANTASTIC BEASTS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM

TROLLS

In cinemas November 17. Rating CTC Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them is an all-new adventure returning us to the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling. The story opens in 1926 as Newt Scamander has just completed a global excursion to find and document an extraordinary array of magical creatures. Arriving in New York for a brief stopover, he might have come and gone without incident… were it not for a No-Maj (American for Muggle) named Jacob, a misplaced magical case, and the escape of some of Newt’s fantastic beasts, which could spell trouble for both the wizarding and No-Maj worlds.

Books

In cinemas December 1. Rating CTC From the creators of Shrek comes DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls, a smart, funny and irreverent comedy about the search for happiness, and just how far some will go to get it. This hilarious film transports audiences to a colourful, wondrous world populated by the overly optimistic Trolls, who have a constant dance in their step and a song on their lips.

See Trolls at a special advance screening at Event Cinemas on Sunday 20th November. Foyer fun at 10am and the film is at 10.30am.

Tickets are $11* each for Cine Buzz members and are on sale now at eventcinemas.com.au. *+$1.20 online booking fee applies.

A BUG CALLED DOUG Chris Collin & Megan Kitchen

RRP $24.95 (with audio-visual CD) It's Drew's eighth birthday and his best mate Mikey is sleeping over. The boys are having the best day ever, until they discover a hideous monster under the bed! When Mum and sister Daisy get in on the act, pandemonium erupts!

But when the panic subsides we discover Doug the Bug isn’t quite as scary as first imagined.

See more and save more with a BCC and Event Cinemas Family Pass, available for some great family films during the school holidays.

Check the website during the school holidays for your local BCC or Event Cinemas Family Pass offer. www.eventcinemas.com.au

WIN!!

DISNEY’S MOANA

In cinemas Boxing Day. Rating CTC Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana, which opens in theatres nationwide on December 26 2016, features a dynamic roster of characters brought to life by a talented group of actors. Directed

by Ron Clements and John Musker, who were behind The Little Mermaid and Aladdin, Moana showcases the life-changing journey of a tenacious 16-year old who teams up with the mighty demigod Maui to fulfill an ancient quest.

See a Charity Advance Screening of Disney’s Moana on Sunday 4th December at all BCC and Event Cinemas.

All proceeds go to the Children’s Hospital Foundations Australia. 10.30am fun in the foyer, 11am film commences.

All tickets are $12. Tickets go on sale on October 18 at the box office or online at eventcinemas.com.au

apps

BECOMING AURORA Elizabeth Kasmer. RRP $19.95 Sixteen-year-old Rory is in trouble. It’s not that she’s fallen in with the wrong crowd, her friends aren’t who they used to be. Directionless, they vent their frustration by trying to start a war with the local immigrant community. Can Rory find a way through her prejudices?

And can she become the girl her dad called Aurora?

Researched and inspired by a news report of a racist attack on a Brisbane restaurant, Becoming Aurora is a nuanced portrayal of tensions in a small town and the first young adult work to win the Queensland Literary Awards Best Emerging Author prize since it was established in 1999.

CHATBOOKS

For the busy parent who never has time to sort their photos, Chatbooks is a phone-based app that automatically creates and ships a high quality photo book to you every time you add 64 photos to Instagram, Facebook, or to your phone favourites. The app even includes the dates and captions in the book. It takes just 30 seconds to set up, and you only need to set up once. For those who do like to edit their photos, Chatbooks will notify you before the order goes ahead, so you have time to change the book, if you want to. And if you prefer to create your own, you can also just create a single Custom Chatbook, using whatever photos you choose.

This delightfully Australian story teaches us all a gentle lesson about preconceived ideas.

Published by Sunshine Coast author Chris Collin and Megan Kitchin (illustrator), A Bug Called Doug is a bestseller in Australia, is Long Listed in the 2015-16 ISLN (International School Library Network) Red Dot Awards, and is also on the 2014 QLD Premiers Challenge Book List.

Providing a way of storing treasured memories in a format where everyone can look back at and share is a genius solution to the digital chaos that often ensues after having children. For a full review, including a chance to check out the hilarious Chatbooks video, head to our website!

WIN your own copy of A Bug Called Doug! Head to our website for your chance to win!

READ MORE reviews www.kidsonthecoast.com.au or www.kidsinthecity.com.au 50

NOV/DEC 2016

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ENROL IN COURSES AT NCC TRADES SKILLS CENTRE Nambour Christian College (NCC) Trades Skills Centre offers accredited and non-accredited courses in pastry/baking and hospitality: • SIT20416 – Certificate II in Kitchen Operations • SIT20213 – Certificate II in Hospitality • FDF20510 – Certificate II in Retail Baking Assistance NCC has a large commercial pastry/ baking kitchen, industrial commercial kitchen, restaurant, bar and bakery shop.

The school employs a qualified chef and pastry chef with many years of industry experience.

The courses are ‘real life’ learning, allowing you to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become a professional employee in the hospitality industry. Every student will gain skills in making pastries, desserts and international dishes, waiting, barista/coffee making, customer service techniques, retail and much more.

Every student has the opportunity to prepare, cook and serve paying customers in a range of service styles including high teas, banquets, buffets and à la carte.

NCC runs short courses in most areas of hospitality, for school-aged students (Years 9, 10, 11 & 12) and also adults.

We will also be offering positions at NCC, for full time Hospitality and Pastry/Baking students for 2017.

For enquiries, please contact John Shuttleworth at tsc-hospitality@ncc.qld.edu.au (07) 5451 3333 | 2 McKenzie Road, Woombye QLD 4559

JUNIOR PRIMARY AT FLINDERS

Flinders provides our youngest children the greatest start to formal schooling. We are a caring community that fosters a passion for learning where every child can unlock their potential. Students learn how to think critically and creatively, explore ideas and work collaboratively as they develop their own sense of identity. Our supportive nurturing environment ensures the well-being of all students and families.

REGISTER TODAY | www.mfac.edu.au or (07) 5477 3260