Kids on the Coast Magazine | Sunshine Coast - Issue 102. Mar/Apr 2021 by Shore Media

ISSUE 102 March/April 2021 SUNSHINE COAST

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

BABIES SPECIAL: HEALTH, SLEEP, AND THE L ATEST BABY GEAR TOP TIPS FOR BONDING WITH YOUR BABY “I THOUGHT I WAS PREPARED…” CAN YOU EVER BE TRULY READY FOR A BABY?

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Discover. Achieve. Belong. At Immanuel, exceptional teachers inspire learning. Contact us today to register for our next Open Morning. #InspiringLearning #BuildingCommunity #EnrichingLives

www.immanuel.qld.edu.au

WELCOME

hough my babies are heading for double digits, I remember the newborn days like they were yesterday. This little squishy creature looking at me, expecting me to have all the answers, when I couldn’t even remember where I’d left my keys! The conflict of overwhelming love mixed with overwhelming... erm… everything else. I’ll confess, I was ‘that’ mum at mother’s group—turning up late, baby spew on my shoulder, forgetting the nappy bag, sitting in awe of the glowing ladies around me whilst I gulped down my cold coffee. I’d believed the myth that an inherent mothering gene would kick in the moment my first-born arrived and that I’d instinctively know what to do. Oh, how wrong I was! In fact, it took me almost two (or more realistically, five!) years before I found my mama feet. And it was mostly my little ones that found them for me. As we got

to know each other and they took their first steps, I found my confidence to walk beside them. So, especially for all those parentsto-be, new parents, parents of toddlers, parents expecting number 2 or 3, or even parents of tweens who want to reminisce about the hazy baby days, this is our Babies issue! We have a raft of experts joining us to share their tips on obstetrics care, sleep and settling, what to expect in the newborn days, bonding with your baby and more. And hold onto your hormones as we have the most adorable baby and mama products that will have you all fleetingly considering ‘oooh, could we go again’? Not forgetting Easter, we also have the best school holiday activities, movie releases, reviews and more. With love,

Angela xo

SUNSHINE COAST - BRISBANE - GOLD COAST

Easter SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

ONLINE

MARCH

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U

If you need any parenting support, reach out to Parentline: 1300 30 1300 / www.parentline.com.au

THE TEAM

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Angela Sutherland

PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR Helen Rush

NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Francesca Goad

DIGITAL MANAGER Karine Godin

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tanya Nissen

GRAPHIC DESIGN Danielle Lunn

facebook.com/kidsonthecoast kidsonthecoastmagazine pinterest.com/kidsonthecoast issuu.com/kidsonthecoastmagazine K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

CONTENTS

FEATURES 21

PUBLISHED BY

SH RE

BABIES SPECIAL: Obstetrics, health, WELLBEING: Ever wondered if art therapy sleep, and what to expect in the early months, might help your little one? We investigate this it’s all in our Babies Special! powerful and positive intervention method.

MEDIA

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

More than a magazine, we are a vibrant community, bringing the best in local news, events, features and more to parents across the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Brisbane. Made by local parents, for local parents, we strive to be the first place that families come to connect; where they are understood, supported and inspired.

ADVERTISING

helen@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706 francesca@shoremedia.com.au 0432 674 159

REGULARS

MAY/JUN 2021 BOOKING DEADLINES

FROM THE EDITOR ............................................................................................................... 3 WHAT’S ON: Events and activities for families........................................................................ 8 NEWS: Community news from across the Sunshine Coast .................................................... 12 NOTICEBOARD: The latest from our local schools.............................................................. 14 CHECK THIS OUT: Our fav kid-friendly finds for baby and beyond................................. 16 STYLE: Everything your bambino needs for a rockin’ wardrobe ........................................... 18 PARENTHOOD: “I thought I was prepared...” The reality of bringing baby home ............28 ESSENTIALS: Quality baby essentials for your little bundle ............................................. 30 EARLY LEARNING: Simple ways to bond with your baby................................................... 32 SLEEP: Experiencing sleep regression? The sleep experts are here to help ......................... 35 LITERACY: Baby talk: the importance of those nonsensical chats .................................... 40 RELATIONSHIPS: Resolving issues that matter to you..................................................... 44 EDUCATION: The bush kindy in the heart of the the Sunshine Coast ............................. 46 ACTIVE: Kicking off a love for sport in little ones ................................................................. 50 THINGS TO DO: All aboard the Mary Valley Rattler!......................................................... 52 CLASSIFIEDS: Family friendly products and services ..........................................................55 REVIEWS: Books for the family............................................................................................... 58 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.

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

Ad booking: 5 April 2021 Art deadline: 9 April 2021 Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across South East Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast. For distribution enquiries inbox@shoremedia.com.au Printed at Print Works All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications are published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Feedback, comments or suggestions? Send to: inbox@shoremedia.com.au. We aim to reply to all correspondence. We are committed to bringing you editorial with integrity. Any assistance we do receive from local businesses to produce stories does not compromise the integrity of our coverage.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Free Holiday Fun this April! Kids Balloon Twisting with Miss Donna Dates: 6th – 9th April Times: 10am – 12noon daily No bookings required. For more information visit noosacivic.com.au

Roving Magic with Nickleby Dates: 6th – 9th April Times: 1pm – 3pm daily No bookings required.

Big W Woolworths 100 speciality stores 28 Eenie Creek Rd (Cnr Walter Hay Drive) Noosaville Ph 5440 7900

FraserIsland A U S S I E A DV E N T U R E S F O R T H E W H O L E FA M I LY

Guided tours and resort activities for all ages!

FAMILY FRIENDLY ESCAPES

AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION

IMMERSIVE ISLAND ADVENTURES

Nestled along the western bay, Kingfisher Bay Resort is the perfect base for ecotourism adventures and island fun for the whole family!

Enjoy the comforts of home, with interconnecting hotel rooms, 1-3 bedroom villas and holiday houses, with full access to resort facilities.

Explore Fraser Island’s freshwater lakes, beaches, and rainforests with guided tours and cruises from your base at Kingfisher Bay Resort.

FAMILY HOLIDAY DEALS ON QUEENSLAND’S #1 BUCKET LIST DESTINATION

Fraser Island’s iconic attractions were untouched by the summer bushfires and remain one of the top Queensland travel experiences.

Picture - perfect family memories... Kingfisher Bay Resort on Fraser Island is the place for family adventures in paradise this year! Nestled along the island’s calm western bay, the resort provides access to nature-based experiences for all ages. Fraser Island is easily accessed by ferry, just a few hours north of Brisbane – yet you’ll feel a world away in this World Heritagelisted wonderland… with freshwater lakes and safe swimming spots, ancient rainforests, expansive sandblows, a shipwreck, and epic sunsets across the bay. Time stands still here and it’s the perfect place to disconnect from devices and reconnect with what really matters.

Call 1800 FRASER

The executive houses and range of two-three bedroom family villas offer easy options for travelling with kids, and Kingfisher Bay Resort is a popular option for intergenerational family holidays and returning guests. PLUS, all guests have full access to the resort facilities and ranger-guided activities: Weekly “What’s On” Guide Junior Eco Rangers Program Guided 4WD Island Tours Lagoon Swimming Pools Island Day Spa (for the big kids!)

Kingfisher Bay Resort was voted the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice for 2020, and there’s no better place to #HolidayHereThisYear. Make the most of what’s on offer in our backyard, with a road trip to paradise on Fraser Island this summer!

Eco Marine Cruises

www.kingfisherbay.com

H OT

DEALS

Famfiolries!

WHAT’S ON ONLINE, FACE TO FACE AND #COVID SAFE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE EVENTS!

Paradise Resort, Surfers Paradise www.paradiseresort.com.au

With everything from their famous Easter Egg Hunt, bunny hop race, Easter themed trivia and visits from the Easter bunny himself, this April at Paradise Resort will be filled with egg-citing, cracking family fun! Voted Australia’s best family resort 10 years in a row, Paradise Resort knows how to celebrate. Stay during the month of April and enjoy poolside movies every Saturday night, book the family in to be entertained by the high energy ‘in the air’ aerial dance show, and don’t miss the Aussie Carnival on the 7th and 14th April.

RHYMES WITH RYAN MONDAYS AT 6.30PM Online www.library.sunshine coast.qld.gov.au

Join in every Monday night at 6.30pm on Sunshine Coast Libraries Facebook (@SCLibraries) to watch this fun First 5 Forever early literacy session. You can also watch previous episodes of Rhymes with Ryan on Sunshine Coast Libraries’ YouTube or website.

Intensive Holiday Swim Program THROUGH SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Goodlife Swim School, Buderim www.goodlife.org.au/swim-school Fast track your child’s swimming ability with an intensive holiday swim program. Offered throughout the school holidays, it’s the perfect time to accelerate your child’s swimming and water education.

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

24 TO 28 MARCH Various locations www.worldsciencefestival.com.au

Held annually in March, the World Science Festival Brisbane brings incredible science to life throughout Brisbane City and beyond. This year, there will also be plenty of content available online. With more than 120 events, there is something for all curious minds and all ages.

NOOSA KIDS & BABY MARKET 14 MARCH Tewantin State Primary School Hall, Goodwin Street, Tewantin www.noosakidsmarket.com.au

Welcome to the Noosa Kids & Baby Market, a monthly event for a variety of items for little ones and their parents. Find a variety of stalls including pre-loved stalls, and local business stalls for kids and baby.

ART ADVENTURES SESSIONS HELD AFTER SCHOOL AND DURING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Noosa Regional Gallery, Tewantin www.noosaregionalgallery.com.au

Workshops for kids of all ages are back for 2021 at Noosa Regional Gallery! From pre-school art adventures, to pop-up after school art classes. Also join in the Easter school holidays for lots of messy making fun. Learn new skills and make new friends! Workshop sessions are run by the gallery’s professional arts facilitator.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

* 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.

WORLD SCIENCE FESTIVAL BRISBANE

EASTER FAMILY FUN

VOTED AUSTRALIA’S BEST FAMILY RESORT 10 YEARS IN A ROW

WHAT’S ON ONLINE, FACE TO FACE AND #COVID SAFE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE EVENTS!

THROUGH SCHOOL HOLIDAYS The Ginger Factory, Yandina www. gingerfactory.com.au For the perfect family fun activity these school holidays, try a DIY Gingerbread Man making kit at The Ginger Factory! Ask at the Ice Creamery to purchase your kit on your next visit. The kit includes a gingerbread man, icing and lollies— everything needed to entertain the kids and let their imagination run wild.

BLAST OFF INTO A WORLD OF FUN 6 TO 17 APRIL Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore www.sunshineplaza.com Entertain your aspiring scientists these school holidays with some galaxy-themed fun. STEMpunks will be hosting immersive Minecraft Space Workshops from Tuesday 6 to Saturday 10 April. Then, drop into Street Science’s Science Lab for a Sensory experiment from Tuesday 13 to Saturday 17 April. The kids will love taking home their very own handmade galaxy slime!

COME AND PLAY THURSDAY 29 APRIL 9.00 TO 11.15AM Matthew Flinders Anglican College www.mfac.edu.au

Experience the excitement of Under 8s Day, with a morning of activities, social interaction and creativity to celebrate outdoor play and learning. This is followed by light refreshments and a short tour of the Junior Primary campus with Head of Junior Primary, Ms Chris Curtain. The morning is a great opportunity for families to see Junior Primary in action and speak to teachers, students and parents about life at Flinders. Bookings essential.

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

SUNSHINE BEACH STATE SCHOOL PREP OPEN MORNING 23 MARCH; 9.00 - 10.30AM www.sunshinebeachss.eq.edu.au Sunshine Beach State School, Sunshine Beach

As the first school in Australia to be accredited with the ‘Quality School’ status with the William Glasser Institute, Sunshine Beach State School offers a quality curriculum, quality teaching and quality relationships amongst staff, learners and the school community. Find out more at their Prep Open Morning and Storytime. Bookings required.

KINDER YOGA WEEKLY TUESDAYS: Marcoola Balance Studio FRIDAYS: Kawana Island Meeting Place www.zencat.com.au Zen Cat Kinder Yoga classes offer young children the opportunity to connect with their inner self and others, explore their creativity and develop techniques to find a place of calm. Children are taken on a magical adventure incorporating traditional yoga poses, creative movement, music, storytelling, visualisation and relaxation.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

DIY Gingerbread Men at the Ginger Factory

LITTLE MATCH PRODUCTIONS AND VENUE 114 PRESENT

School Holiday FUN!

TUESDAY 13 APRIL 2021 | 10AM | 1PM VENUE 114, 114 SPORTSMANS PARADE, BOKARINA TICKETS: $25 | FAMILY $90 (2 ADULTS + 2 CHILDREN) UNDER 2 FREE ON KNEE

#Venue114

@Venue114bokarina

210025 02/21.

BOOK NOW: 07 5413 1400 | VENUE114.COM.AU

LOCAL NEWS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE NEWS: KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU GOT A STORY TO SHARE? EMAIL OUR EDITOR AT INBOX@SHOREMEDIA.COM.AU

LEGO

LAUNCHES MUSIC VIDEO MAKER EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS

he LEGO Group and Universal Music Group (UMG) have launched LEGO® VIDIYO, a playful and innovative music video maker experience platform designed to celebrate and expand children’s creativity and passion for music. Aimed at children aged 7 – 10, LEGO VIDIYO is a brand-new way to play that helps children dream big by directing, producing, starring in, and sharing their own music videos, using tracks from across the globe, led by chart hits from UMG’s artists. Accessed through a unique mashup of LEGO elements, minifigures, music, augmented reality and a new App, LEGO VIDIYO will be filled with endless combinations of editing options unlocked through new special effect ‘BeatBits’. Young creators can

enjoy and experiment with their own individual styles and ways of bringing music videos to life. Using new AR technology, this will be the first-time children can play with minifigures in real-life scale and at a super-sized scale, in addition to the iconic minifigure scale. “We want to feed the imagination of the next generation of creatives, providing a new canvas for kids to creatively express themselves,” said Julia Goldin, Chief Marketing Officer, the LEGO Group. LEGO VIDIYO requires verified parental consent—along with anonymity—and external moderation of all content uploaded to the App feed, so parents can be reassured their child is unleashing their creativity while staying safe online.

INFINITY MARTIAL ARTS EXPANDS

nfinity Martial Arts has opened three new academies, significantly expanding access to its popular Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program across the region. Located in Nambour, Maroochydore and Woodford, the new studios will offer the same high quality program Infinity Martial Arts is known for. “We are very excited to be bringing our Martial Arts Classes to Woodford,” said Phil Cassidy from the new Woodford academy. “Woodford is a small community with not many activities for children to do without having to travel far. We are looking forward to being able to give the kids an activity that not only can help keep them fit and active but,

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

also teach them some very important self-defence skills.” The academies will commence with Infinity’s highly rated kids program, catering for ages 4 to 13 years. They will gradually add more classes, including an adults program and even something for the 2-4 year olds. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a physically and intellectually stimulating selfdefence martial art based on grappling, throws, takedowns and holds. As it emphasises the importance of physical activity, BJJ can instil positive habits in children from an early age, whilst also developing coordination, flexibility, agility, and endurance and fitness.

New studios have opened in Nambour, Maroochydore and Woodford.

www.infinitymartialarts.com.au K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Meet our staff and students on site and experience life and learning at CalCC.

OPEN DAY T U E S 2 5 M AY 9 : 0 0 A M -1 1 : 0 0 A M

SPECIAL ENROLMENT OFFERS AVAILABLE ON THE DAY!

Ph: 07 5436 6777 | 7 Gregson Place Caloundra Qld Email: enrolments@calcc.qld.edu.au | www.calcc.qld.edu.au

NOTICEBOARD NEWS AND ACHIEVEMENTS FROM OUR LOCAL SCHOOLS E M A I L YO U R S C H O O L’S S TO R I E S TO: I N B OX@S H O R E M E D I A.C O M.AU

Leading CHILDREN’S

LITERATURE FESTIVAL

finds success online

Innovative Years 5 and 6 Precinct

OPENS ITS DOORS AT FLINDERS

he new Years 5 and 6 Precinct technology rich multi-purpose rooms. at Matthew Flinders Anglican “There are also the ‘treehouse retreats’— College has just opened its doors multipurpose break-out spaces that overlook and, already, students and teachers seem the Anthony Vincent Oval and border impressed with its potential. rainforest,” said Mrs Edwards. “This Precinct gives our Years 5 and 6 “At Flinders, we design innovative and students their very own space and support aspirational facilities because we recognise in their final years of Primary,” said Mrs that to teach well, we must ensure that Trudi Edwards, Head of Primary. creativity and innovation are always present.” Designed over two “We also recognise the “THEY WILL BE storeys, the Year 5 and 6 importance of having ABLE TO GROW Precinct gives students a distinctive precincts and IN CONFIDENCE flexible environment that transitions to support and ... AND BUILD provides various spaces for nurture our 1,350 students RELATIONSHIPS AS personalised learning. as they journey through our The Precinct’s seamless College from Prep to Year 12.” A COHESIVE GROUP” integration of indoor-outdoor “Here, they will be able learning also enables students to engage to grow in confidence, further realise with nature to enhance their wellbeing. their academic potential and build The light-filled classrooms spill out relationships as a caring and cohesive group onto shaded outdoor learning spaces in preparation for the transition to our and spacious balconies, as well as a Secondary School in Year 7.” large gathering space on each level and www.mfac.edu.au | (07) 5477 3260

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

ith continuing COVID restrictions in place, leading children’s literature festival Voices on the Coast has significantly adjusted its format to reach existing audiences and new audiences via an exciting online program for 2021. “We’ve had 12 months to plan it and to draw on the expertise of others that have already made the COVID-safe transition, so we’ve had the time to put together a fabulous 2021 festival.” The 2021 program consists of five days of jam-packed online sessions from 1 to 5 March. “Normally, we would have 4,500 school kids enjoy 155 events at USC each year, so we’ve had to significantly change our model to ensure we can still reach those kids in 2021 and hopefully even more kids via an exciting online program.” Now the festival isn’t limited by geography, kids, schools and families Australia-wide can enjoy the incredible literature experience of Voices on the Coast. “It is open to everyone, so we hope to have kids from anywhere and everywhere,” said Kelly. “What I’m most excited about is the opportunity to reach those smaller outback towns that might not usually get a visiting author. The kids get to see the author is a real person, ask them questions, find out about what inspired them to write the story—it is such a fabulous way to get kids engaged in children’s literature.” www.voicesonthecoast.com.au

Deano, aka Mr Yipadee, will be at the Festival.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

PLAYFUL LEARNING BY THE LAKE SINCE 1965

Credit: Brooke Petro Photography

Enrol now for 2022

Nestled on the shore of Lake Donnella, Tewantin Community Kindy provides a welcoming and nurturing play based environment, an invaluable learning experience for your child as they prepare for Prep and beyond.

For more information or to book a tour: info@tewantincommunitykindy.com or phone (07) 54471385 1 Doonella St, Tewantin, 4565 | tewantincommunitykindy.com

CHECK THIS OUT OUR FAV KID-SIZED ESSENTIALS FOR BABY AND BEYOND

ECO-FRIENDLY TEETHER This eco-friendly teether is made from sustainable beechwood timber and food grade silicone. Non-toxic and free from harmful metals, BPA, chemicals or phthalates, the teether is designed to help develop baby’s motor skills and soothe teething pain. Designed in Byron Bay, it comes in four gorgeous colours: Sage, Cinnamon, Turmeric, and Blush. $24.95 // www.obdesigns.com.au

NEWBORN UNISEX DELUXE BABY GIFT BOX This gorgeous deluxe baby gift box is the perfect baby shower gift. Filled with practical newborn items, everything in this gift box can be used from birth. Includes a cotton wrap, a Velcro swaddle wrap, 2 bodysuits, baby shoes, silicone teether, baby bath wash and more. The large white gift box can be personalised and double up as a baby keepsake box. You can also create your own basket, filled with bespoke gifts for a special little bundle. $160 // www.bespokebaby.com.au

NUTRIBULLET BABY Nothing beats feeding your baby fresh, homemade food, and now meal-prep is a dream with this fab baby kit from NutriBullet. Comes with a freezer tray and six date-dial cups with lids, so you can get ahead of the game and prepare a number of meals at once. With its exclusive Bullet cyclonic action, the NutriBullet converts whole vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and other superfoods into exceptional liquid fuel. $99 // www.bulletbrands.com.au

For some yummy NutriBullet Baby recipes, head to our website!

PETIT MONKEY TOUCANS BACKPACK On trend, lightweight and made from recycled PET bottles, this cute backpack is perfect for your little one’s adventures. Featuring a twoway zipper for easy closing and a large pocket on the front, it’s BPA-free, PVC-free and phthalate-free. $74.95 // www.daycareswaggies.com

TREVY’S TRICKY DAY BOOK AND TURTLE SET With help from his ocean friends, Trevy the Turtle wants to educate children on how they can be environmental warriors and protect our environment and ocean wildlife. This educational set includes a cuddly turtle for kids to share their sustainable ventures with. $45 // www.beachlifebooks.com.au

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

SLOTH PERSONALISED BIRTH PRINT WOLFIE RAINBOW OVERALLS The soft, stretchy jegging material will make these Wolfie Overalls the most comfortable overalls you will find for your bambino! They are a fitted legging design with a loose singlet-like top half. These are perfect for layering with long-sleeve tops or cardigans as we approach winter. $39.95 // www.littlewolfie.com.au

This super cute personalised birth print is a keepsake that parents will love for many years and a meaningful addition to any nursery. Bespoke Baby can frame the prints and deliver them ready to hang, Designs can be customised, they also have an extensive range of kids’ wall art too! From $15 // www.bespokebaby.com.au

KAKADU PLUM & HYALURONIC ACID SERUM

FOR MUM

SOHO WOODEN HIGHCHAIR This Scandi style highchair has a thoughtful no tray design that allows little ones to sit with the rest of the family at the dining table. Includes a front bar and high chair harness for safety. The multiple seat and footrest heights make this a long lasting highchair that can be adjusted as your child grows. Available in three colours: black, white and natural. $119.95 // www.mocka.com.au K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

This silken, vitamin C potent serum will boost hydration and bring vibrancy back to your skin, helping to soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and rejuvenate environmental damage. Formulated with only high-grade botanical extracts, natural and certified organic ingredients and handmade on the Sunshine Coast. Wendy Christina Premium Skin care is an eco-concious, cruelty free, vegan brand. From $80 // www.wendychristina.com @wendychristinaskincare

MODERN CLOTH NAPPIES These gorgeous modern cloth nappies (MCNs) from Cottontail Nappy Service feature adjustable clips to fit babies 5-18kgs. The outer nappy is made of polyester and 100% waterproof PUL, and the inner nappy is 100% white cotton microfibre fleece, which is soft against baby’s skin. Fast drying and highly absorbent, each nappy comes with one insert, made of three layers of microfibre and two layers of bamboo fleece. $22 // www.cottontailservice.com.au M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

e b o r d r a W e l t i L r u o Y

LOVE EARTH SLOUCH ROMPER Let your little one make a statement in the utmost comfort with this Love Earth Slouch Romper. Made from 95% cotton and 5% Elastane Cotton Jersey, the loose fit and generous length allows for growth. We LOVE! $30.95

UBER STYLISH, PRACTICAL AND LOCALLY DESIGNED AND PRINTED, MY LITTLE WARDROBE HAS EVERYTHING YOUR BAMBINO NEEDS FOR A ROCKIN’ WINTER WARDROBE. #ADDTOCART

WAFFLE LOUNGE SUMMER SET The most gorgeous lounge set we’ve found, this Waffle Lounge Summer Set is made from 100% waffle cotton and is sure to be your little one’s go-to set. Available in four colours: grey, pink, stone, and military green. #IWantOneToo $25.60

VIBES STONEWASH JUMPER Yay, stonewash is IN, baby! This stonewash jumper is super stylish and made from 100% organic cotton fleece, which will keep bubba super warm and comfy this winter! $39.95

PERSONALISED VARSITY JACKET This limited edition jacket is soft, comfortable and perfect for the colder months. With a thick stripe rib for hem, cuff and collar, Bub will be the raddest on the block. Simply add name and number at check out, to have the jacket personalised. $58.95 INDIE LINEN DRESS This super cute dress is fab for summer, or layer with a long-sleeved t-shirt in the winter. Made from 90% linen and 10% cotton and with the opening at the back, it’s practical, comfortable and oh so adorbs! Available in three colours: chocolate, snow, and dusty pink. $30.00

BEAUTIFUL CHAOS STONEWASH TANK Another stunning tee designed and hand printed on the Gold Coast, this versatile Stonewash Tank can be worn as a regular tank or size up to wear as a dress. Practical, simple, and uber on-trend. $28.00

All products are designed and made by My Little Wardrobe, Gold Coast | Get them online now at www.mylittewardrobe.com.au |

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

@mylittlewardrobeau

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Love. Learning. Adventure. Enrolling now for P re-Kindy. Enquiries: Janelle Appo on 5451 3600 or Krystle Cullen on 5451 3648

suncoastlittlelearners.com.au

Suncoast Christian College, Cnr Schubert & Kiels Mtn Road, Woombye

Prep is a big step... Make it with a community that will help your family flourish. Choosing the school community you and your child will join is an exciting step. Why should you choose Pacific Lutheran College? At Pacific we are aware that young people are preparing for a very different world to the one we know. They will need to be innovators, entrepreneurs, lifelong learners and responsible global citizens. Pacific Foundation College engages students through stimulating activities in a vibrant environment inspiring creativity to foster confidence, collaboration and independence. Prep students are encouraged and supported to develop lifelong skills.

Core focus on relationships

K-12 learning community

Flexible learning spaces

Contact Chris Henschke, College Registrar P 5436 7321 A Woodlands Boulevard, Meridan Plains 4551

Visit pacificlutheran.qld.edu.au/prep to learn more

Focus on problem solving

F U N & F IT N ES S F O R 2 - 1 5 YEA R O L DS 3 LOCATIONS ON T HE S UNS HI NE COAS T

MAR OO CH YDORE, AUR A & K AWANA WATERS

Self Defence Confidence Discipline

Teamwork Anti-bullying Respect

CALL NOW ON 0481 781 196 OR EMAIL INFO@INFINITYMARTIALARTS.COM.AU

1 WEEK FREE TRAINING WHEN YOU PRESENT THIS AD

infinitymartialarts.com.au

A Montessoriinspired school for children aged 3-18 years

For more information and to book a tour, visit mic.qld.edu.au Phone 07 5442 3807

From Early Learning to Year 12, MIC provides a continuum of education supporting children to become self-confident, independent thinkers who learn because they are interested in the world and enthusiastic about life.

Find us at 880-932 Maroochydore Rd Forest Glen Montessori International College

mic.qld.edu.au

Aah, your newborn is finally in your arms! But that little bundle can bring a few eye-watering surprises. We’ve got the lowdown on what to expect in the first few months. WHY DOESN’T MY NEWBORN LOOK LIKE THE CHERUBS IN THE MOVIES? Yes, with their scrunched up faces, flakey skin and misshapen heads, newborn babies can look very different from those you see in all the books and brochures! Their misshapen head is due to the skull bones in a baby's head moving and shifting as they travel down the birth canal. This usually settles down within a few days. A baby's skin will flake and peel as it gets used to life outside the womb. It is also prone to minor rashes such as cradle cap or stork bite. These are all common and will settle down in a week or so. Another common rash is Neonatal K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Erythema Toxicum. Most obvious after a warm bath, it is a blotchy red rash that comes and goes with temperature changes. It will usually clear after a few days. Pregnancy hormones can have a physical effect on baby too. Some babies may have a small amount of breast tissue, some baby girls can have a spot of blood in their nappy and some babies have tiny white dots (milia) on their nose. This is all normal. However, whatever their age, you should

take your child straight to your paediatrician or GP if they have a rash and persistent high temperature, cold or cough symptoms, swollen neck glands, or any other symptoms that cause you any concern.

WHY DOES MY BABY MAKE SUCH STRANGE NOISES? As babies are nose breathers with very narrow nasal passages, snorting, grunting and snuffling are all common baby noises. M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

H E A LT H

These are normal as long as the rise and fall of their chest appears relaxed, is not particularly fast, and they are their normal skin colour. Ensure you keep newborns away from anyone with respiratory symptoms to prevent them from catching a cold.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON ILLNESSES TO WATCH FOR? A baby may come down with anywhere between 6 and 12 colds in their first year, so get ready for some sniffles and restless feeds. The good news is that each cold is building their immune system, so they are growing more resilient each time they get sick and recover. Check their temperature regularly and help them breathe easier with a few drops of saline in each nostril, or a humidifier in their room. Offer liquids more often, and always talk to your health care professional if anything concerns you. Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease is a common viral illness that causes a rash on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. They

might also have a fever and blisters on their hands, feet, inside their mouth, and also in the nappy area. It is highly contagious, so babies should stay home from childcare or social situations until the blisters have dried up. Another common infection for babies is conjunctivitis, which usually causes a baby to have pink, watery or sticky eyes. This eye infection is very infectious and needs prompt treatment from your healthcare professional.

WHEN SHOULD I CALL THE DOCTOR? Many new parents feel unsure whether a trip to the doctors is necessary, but you should always err on the side of caution and go straight to your paediatrician or GP if you are ever concerned about your baby’s health. No good doctor will ever think you are wasting their time, and getting checked over by a healthcare professional can't do any harm. Here are some important signs to

watch out for: • If your baby is listless, not reacting to you, has poor colour, or if you just feel something isn't right. • If your baby’s cough is worsening or they are having difficulty breathing. • You know your baby’s crying better than anyone. If they are crying more than usual, the cry is high-pitched, they are whimpering, or they are pulling at their ear, see the doctor straight away. • If they are unusually irritable for no apparent reason over the last 24 hours. • If they are under three months old and have any fever at all (temperature over 38°C) or are over three months and have a fever of 38.9°C or higher. • If they have diarrhoea or repeated vomiting for more than 12 hours. • If they don’t want to drink or feed for more than eight hours. If your baby is so ill you think they need urgent medical attention don’t hesitate to go to emergency or call 000.

"ALWAYS ERR ON THE SIDE OF CAUTION AND GO STRAIGHT TO YOUR GP IF YOU ARE EVER CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR BABY’S HEALTH"

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PREGNANCY

WHAT IS ‘GROUP CARE’?

our group care system is managed through the clinic, with births at Buderim Private Hospital,” explains Suzanne Wall, Practice Manager at Sunshine Obstetrics. “We find the maternity unit there provides a caring birth experience and postnatal stay.” Sunshine Obstetrics has three highly experienced obstetricians on their group care team—Dr Kirsten Morrow, Dr James Orford, and Dr George Bogiatzis. “You will meet all three of our obstetricians during your pregnancy care and it will be whoever from the team is on call that day for the birth Monday through Friday,” explains Suzanne.

“HAVING A BABY IS A VERY SPECIAL EXPERIENCE, BUT IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE EXPENSIVE.” WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

s well as excitement, nervousness and a serving of nausea, pregnancy brings with it a list of difficult decisions. Typically, the first decision is around pregnancy care and birthing—usually governed by choosing Public or Private. Public comes at no cost but you won’t know the care team on the day and your hospital stay will be much shorter. Private allows you to choose your obstetrician, who will manage all of your care, as well as enjoy a private room and the niceties of a private hospital, but it also means you’ll pay gap fees (even if you have

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private health insurance). Now, a third model is growing in popularity. Aptly called ‘group care’, this model blends the best of both the private and public worlds—in essence, it’s private care at a more affordable price.

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN GROUP CARE Group care is essentially private pregnancy care, but shared across a small team of obstetricians. This sharing of resources can keep the costs down without compromising on the level of care. “All antenatal, birth and postnatal care in

Apart from very complicated pregnancies, group care is open to anyone. To access care at $990 out of pocket for pregnancy care, you’ll need a medicare card and private health insurance with maternity cover. Families without that cover will need to get a tailored quote from Sunshine Obstetrics. “We are finding that a lot of second-time mums really love this care model. After trying the public or private system first time around, they realise that the group care approach fits them perfectly—giving them the private care, birth and postnatal care, without the blowout gap fees,” said Suzanne. “Having a baby is a very special experience, but it doesn’t have to be expensive.”

CONTACT Sunshine Obstetrics is a caring and experienced team of obstetricians and midwives offering private pregnancy care to expectant families. SUNSHINE OBSTETRICS Buderim QLD 4556 www.sunshineobstetrics.com.au 07 5391 4088

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WELLBEING

so is a mother

WHEN A CHILD IS BORN,

et’s get real, this motherhood gig is not an easy one. We don't magically know what to do when baby arrives, and no amount of reading or baby classes can fully prepare you for what's just arrived. And to make things harder, thanks to social media, pregnancy and motherhood are often ridiculously idealised #nofilterhere. From glorious pregnancy photoshoots to Insta-ready newborns, the reality of baby life is often far removed from that which is portrayed. If a woman or her partner’s expectations are very different from reality, it can result in adjustment difficulties and this can lead to depression and anxiety—both pre- and post-natal. Postnatal depression can affect 1 in 10 women whilst they are pregnant, and 1 in 7 women during the first year after the birth of a child (www.beyondblue.org.au). Postnatal depression is not your fault. You’re not a bad person, you’re not a bad mother and you are not alone. Sleep deprivation alone can cause significant impacts on your general mood. Couple that with the trauma of birth, social isolation and adjusting to motherhood, it's not surprising you may find it difficult to cope with your new role as a mum.

Here are some strategies you can put in place during pregnancy and the postnatal period to reduce your risk of developing PND: 1. Establish realistic ideas of pregnancy/post pregnancy life. Re-evaluate what can really be achieved with a new baby in the house. 2. Establish a relationship with a health professional. Talk to your GP and ask for a referral to see a social worker or psychologist to engage in talk therapy. 3. Avoid major upheavals. If possible, avoid changing jobs, moving house and undertaking renovations. This can add a lot of stress to this already intense time. 4. Discuss expectations of pregnancy and parenthood. Many factors can influence a person’s ideas about parenthood. Discussing these expectations and coming to a shared understanding can reduce the likelihood of disappointments. 5. Get your finances in order. Losing an income for a period of time and the extra costs of a new baby can result in added stress. Where possible, work out your financial position before bub is born. 6. Gift substitute. Friends or family might like to gift a service such as cleaning or pre-made meals. 7. Division of tasks. Work out who is doing what in your household. Looking after a baby and carrying the mental load for the family can cause significant overwhelm.

SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR ARE:

Sleep disturbances (trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps) including insomnia, early morning waking, excessive sleep. Changes in appetite (not eating or overeating). Persistent and generalised worry. Feelings of inadequacy, worthlessness, emptiness or failure as a mother. Feelings of anger, guilt, resentment, shame and irritability. Thoughts of suicide.

ELIZA PIKE – BL ACKBIRD COUNSELLING Eliza Pike is a Clinical Social Worker and the Founder of Blackbird Counselling. She specialises in pregnancy and postnatal counselling, including fertility counselling, grief and loss, adjustment to motherhood and maternal mental health. blackbirdcounselling.com.au

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“HOW ON EARTH CAN YOU PREPARE FOR SOMETHING SO COMPLETELY LIFE-CHANGING?” You will be physically exhausted. Sleep is a thing of the past. Lack of sleep will instantly drain you of your capacity to cope with things. Account for this when you find that you are being hard on yourself.

RELATIONSHIPS Relationships will evolve. The top two points will make sure of that. We want to go into this period of our life understanding this and believing that this is not a bad thing, in fact it can be beautiful. This includes our relationship with our significant other, but we should be aware that this may also affect our relationship with friends and family.

SELF-DOUBT There is no manual. Every situation is different, every child is different and everything is constantly changing. Plus, we are inundated with information, rule and, advice. This can be overwhelming and can lead to feelings of self-doubt.

“I THOUGHT I WAS PREPARED…”

hough you read all the books and attend all the classes, can you ever truly be prepared for your first child? I have heard so many firsttime parents say ‘no one told me how it would actually be’. I think the real question we need to ask ourselves is how on earth can you prepare for something so completely and utterly life-changing? Maybe we need to break down what exactly makes it so life-changing. It seems like an easy answer—I have a child now whereas before I didn’t. Boom, life-changing. I think it is important to breakdown some of the multiple areas affected:

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PRIORITIES Your life plan changed because you are suddenly not the star player anymore. You now have this little, beautiful bundle of joy, but this bundle of joy is completely reliant on you. There is no other living creature in the animal kingdom that is so reliant on its parents for so long. This is a big realisation and can be quite overwhelming. They are now your #1 priority.

PHYSICAL Child birth alone will affect you physically. You need to be kind to yourself here. You need to understand what individually happened to you and how that interacts with everything else at this point in time.

IDENTITY We don’t talk about the fact that it is ok to miss your pre-child life. You have undergone e a very big shift in identity. You are now a parent. There may be big shifts in your career, which can affect how you see yourself and this can be very tough. One of the reasons it is hard to prepare for this time in our lives is that none of these changes occur in a silo. They are all competing for time, mental and emotional space at the same time. So, remember that it will take time to adjust to becoming a parent, to having this new little dependent person(s) requiring your undivided attention, but that’s ok, you have created something beautiful. Congratulations! There will be many highs to come. Don’t stress too much about parenthood, there’s no ‘right’ way of doing it, and there are many support mechanisms that you can lean on. Parentline is one of them and we’re here seven days a week. Call us on 1300 30 1300 or jump online at Parentline.com.au. By Kimberley Harper, Parentline Manager K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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QUALITY BABY ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR LITTLE BUNDLE

DREAM WEARABLE WEIGHTED SLEEP SACK Designed in the USA, this super soft wearable weighted sack is lightly weighted to mimic your hug and give your baby feelings of security and comfort to help fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. The sack is ACCC approved, 100% cotton (excluding beads) and has a tog rating of 0.6 suitable for all seasons. $143

BINKI JUMPSUIT biNKi is a divine range of functional, beautiful clothing for little ones. This jumpsuit has a unique fastener, which is attached across the front of the body. Just place the layers on top of each other neatly and you are done! This makes changing nappies easier (for you) and more comfortable (for baby). Made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, it comes in a range of cute prints. $55

CHARLIE CRANE LEVO ROCKER This high quality baby rocker is a must have for babies from birth to 7 months. Its natural rocking softly follows the movements of your baby, and the aesthetics will complement your home perfectly. Made from wood produced in sustainably managed forests and 100% GOTS certified organic cotton. $435

PREEMIE 3 PIECE LAYETTE SET This gorgeous functional eco friendly set is ready for your little one to wear in hospital or as a gorgeous take-me-home outfit. The 3-piece set includes a bamboo bodysuit, pants and hugger hat, made of certified 100% rayon from bamboo and produced with eco-friendly dyes and nickel-free snaps. The kimono-style opening offers convenient dressing with a body-hugging fit, and the head hugger hat will keep bub feeling safe and secure. $69

EMBÉ STARTER SWADDLES The award-winning embé swaddles have a ‘no break-out’ design that promotes longer, healthier sleep by offering a womb-like comfort. Perfect for the warmer climate, embé swaddles also feature a patented legs in/legs out design that allows bub to be cooled down, warmed up and nappy changed without unswaddling. The embé range also includes a Transitional Swaddle, designed to safely help baby gradually adjust to sleeping unswaddled. All embé products are designated ‘hip healthy’. $55-$66

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BONDING WITH YOUR

or many new parents, an instant bond forms from the moment you set eyes on your new little bundle. For others, however, this bond can take some time. Maybe instead you find yourself looking at the teeny scrunched up face and wondering, ‘who is this person?’ It’s not uncommon for new parents to struggle building a relationship with their newborn. The one-way street, where you give everything and they can hardly communicate in return can make it hard for a bond to form. Instead, parents can feel emotionally underwhelmed in those early days and unfortunately this can lead to feelings of failure. However, there’s no need to worry if you aren’t feeling that immediate bond. Attachment and bonding can sometimes

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take weeks or months of getting to know and understand your baby. As long as you are having fun and feel happy around your newborn, bonding will naturally happen over time.

W H AT E X A C T LY I S B O N D I N G ?

Bonding is the special attachment that forms between a parent and their baby. It’s that instinct that makes you want to care and nurture your child, always responding to their needs with love and care. Bonding is an important human instinct that gives a baby a sense of security and self-esteem. When bub gets what they need from you—a smile, a touch, a cuddle—they feel the world is a safe place to explore. This supports them to bond with others and lays the foundation for development

and early learning. With repeated human contact, such as touching, cuddling, talking, singing and eye contact, your newborn’s brain releases hormones that help their brain to grow. And as your newborn’s brain grows, they start to develop memory, thought and language. Though it might not be easy to interpret at first, babies communicate from the day they are born. In their first few months, this is done through crying (using different cries for different needs), cooing and squealing, eye contact, smiling and grimacing, and body movements, such as kicking their legs in excitement. Observing a baby’s cues and modifying your touch, eye contact and voice to suit the responses is much like having a ‘conversation’ with your baby. Researchers K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

BABY

call these types of interactions ‘serve and return’ and believe they form the basis of brain, cognitive and social development.

THINGS YOU CAN DO TO SUPPORT BONDING

The early days of parenthood can be overwhelming. Here are a few simple things that can help to develop a bond and remind you to take a breath and enjoy a moment with your baby.

CUDDLE

It’s very daunting for the babies if you have adults standing up and walking around them all the time. We spend a lot of time at their level building trusting relationships, which supports them to feel secure enough to explore their environment.

“Babies aren’t neurologically developed to cry for attention, they cry because they need support and a sense of security”

Just sitting with your baby, being with them, cuddling them, letting them know that they are safe and secure, is one of the most important ways to bond with your newborn. You can never cuddle a baby too much! Babies aren’t neurologically developed to cry for attention, they cry because they need support and a sense of security. Cuddle your baby all you like—it will only benefit them in the long run.

H E A LT H Y TO U C H

Touch is a vital part of baby’s development. It helps to regulate their heart rate and breathing, promotes healthy weight gain and plays a role in cognitive and social development. Bath time, nappy changes, bedtime, feeding and floor time are all great opportunities to experiment with healthy touch and see what your baby likes. A little massage on the legs or gentle stroking on the back can enhance your bond, and will give you both a rush of oxytocin—the ‘love’ hormone that is released through soothing physical contact.

EYE CONTACT

Research shows that eye contact is vital for parent-child attachment and a child’s social and emotional development. Offer your baby lots of eye contact, but don’t worry if at first they can only hold your gaze for a few moments—as they develop this skill, they will use eye contact more and more to share important information with you. In the nursery at Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure, whenever the babies are on the floor, the educators sit on the floor with the babies. This enables them to truly connect with the babies and be at their eye level.

TALK, SING AND TELL STORIES

Babies love it when you sing and talk to them! As well as the positive interaction this brings, infant-directed speech (IDS)— that sing-song voice with a higher pitch and longer vowels that people subconsciously use with babies—aids language acquisition, and helps babies develop their attention and focus, as well as aspects of social development. Studies have revealed that singing to infants can reduce crying, help them sleep through the night, increase bonding and reduce maternal stress. One clinical trial found that premature infants in an intensive care unit, who were

exposed to lullabies, showed improved heart and respiratory rates, better sleep and feeding patterns and better weight gain. A wonderful way to soothe a baby is to take a rug outside and lay down with them and watch the wind blow through the trees. Talk to them about what you can see and hear. Babies love istening to your voice whilst interacting with the natural environment, and it’s a delightful bonding experience for you both.

WHEN TO ASK FOR HELP

If you don’t feel an immediate bond with your baby, you’re not alone. The most important thing is to confide in someone you trust and seek support sooner rather than later. Those first weeks are so important—early intervention is best. Friends, family, midwives, and maternal, child and family health nurses or your GP can be great sources of support. Beyond Blue also has a variety of resources available online for expectant and new parents, including a guide to emotional health and wellbeing and a two-minute mental health checklist for mums which will help you get a better sense of how you’re feeling.

SIMPLE TIPS FOR BONDING

• Look into baby’s eyes • Give them a massage • Put your phone away • Look in the mirror together • Go skin-to-skin • Take in their smell • Read a book • Come up with a pet name just for them • Leave the mess and have a cuddle • Talk to them • Give plenty of kisses • Breathe through the crying • Go on a mum-andbaby date

Eye contact is vital for parent-child attachment.

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SLEEP

GOODNIGHT, SLEEP TIGHT Toddlers and sleep

Is your toddler experiencing a sleep regression? Claire Andersen from Bubbasleep joins us to explain what’s happening and what you can do.

oddlerhood is hard. It is hard for us, as parents, to deal with the overwhelming changes, demands, comprehension and limit testing of our little people. It is hard for them too: separation anxiety, increased mobility, increased language (but not quite enough to communicate exactly what they want), and a flood of emotions that they, themselves, don’t understand. All this can conspire to create some pretty rough sleep regressions.

AT 12 MONTHS Bub can be going along sleeping beautifully for months and then WHAM the ‘12-month regression’ hits. The increased comprehension and physical mobility makes it hard for them to switch off. Fighting naps K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

is common, fighting bedtime is common and an increase in the stamina and intensity that naturally comes with turning into a toddler can throw us off. The important thing at this age is not to panic and not to change approach just because bub has turned it up a notch. All this refusal to sleep at nap time, can make it tempting to go to one nap prematurely. The symptoms are often the same as a one nap transition, yet not. Confusing, I know! Stick with the two naps (shortening the first to 30-45 minutes if you need to in order to get the 2nd nap in, as sleep requirements slightly reduce at this age) and your little person will come through. If they need extra support during this tricky time, that is fine. An extra-long wind down prior to sleep is helpful but try not to skip naps, this will

lead to night wakes and a 5am start to your day due to overtiredness. Night waking from 2-3am is also common at this age, often including playing around and having a party. The best strategy, so long as bub is happy, is to ignore this. Going in and engaging at 3am teaches your little person that 3am is play time. Leave them be—they are just working on their skills while it’s quiet. This will pass once they’ve mastered walking, or those new words they’ve been trying to say.

15-18 MONTHS This period can be a tough time too, with the genuine transition to 1 nap happening at this time, along with a bout of separation anxiety. More words but not enough can mean massive tantrums. Serious FOMO at M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

SLEEP

The increased comprehension and physical mobility makes it hard for them to switch off. Fighting naps is common...

bedtime is common. Some signs to look out of for in the lead up to transitioning to one nap are: refusal of nap 2 even when nap 1 is cut short, early morning waking, refusal of nap 1 even when taken in the car, and fighting bedtime. Only when most of these signs are present should you make the transition. Your little person needs bucket loads of empathy here but also strong boundaries around sleep, if you don’t want the wheels to fall off completely. They are totally aware and understand cause and effect. (i.e. I throw my drink bottle out of the cot, Mum comes in and replaces in = fun game). So,

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stick to your limits but be compassionate as this time can be tricky. Extra comfort may be needed, it may be reasonable to linger in the doorway at sleep time or spend longer winding down before bedtime while they go through this regression period.

20-24 MONTHS This can be the time where some parents are thinking about transition to a “big bed”. However, I like to save this transition to at least 2.5 years unless they are climbing out of the cot. A child is not usually emotionally ready for the independence that a big

bed brings until this age. Transitioning early tends to make existing sleep issues worse and the novelty of staying in bed wears off within 3-12 weeks. Returning a 22-month-old to bed endlessly when they don’t understand why you are doing it is exhausting. Wait until their comprehension is better at a later age, if you can. A sleeping bag in the cot can help deter little climbers from leaving their cot. At this age we also see a bit of bedtime stalling. There is lots of information in their little minds and they can’t switch off. One more book, one more drink, one more hug, can turn into 5 and a very late bedtime as a result. Again, stay firm on your boundaries for the benefit of your little one. A visual bedtime routine chart can be helpful, even at this young age. It gives a sense of control (because 2 year olds are all about controlling their environment and autonomy) but also helps prevent power struggles, because you can detail in the routine their book, drink, cuddle and song, and your little one can help check off each activity as you go through the pre-bed routine. It is a simple but effective way of reducing bedtime battles. Try to make sure bedtime falls no later than 4.5-5 hours from the end of their nap. If your toddler is having an early nap, you may need to push it back to avoid having a 5pm bedtime. Audio relaxation (such as Dinosnores) can help an active mind switch off. Fear of the dark is common, so a low watt red or amber night light can help here. If you are still getting night wakes as a toddler, irrespective of the regressions I’ve spoken about, it is likely that there are some sleep association issues at play. Your toddler can absolutely developmentally sleep 10-12 hours overnight (providing diet is adequate, they are developmentally on track and there are no medical issues). So, if you are still getting night wakes and would like some help to resolve them, please reach out. We can work out a plan that you are comfortable implementing and provide daily support as you make changes.

CLAIRE ANDERSEN – BUBBASLEEP

Claire offers professional, supportive, nonjudgemental help with sleep associations, routines, naps, night waking, early waking and more. With many years’ experience working one-on-one with families, she evaluates each situation on a case-by-case basis to get to the bottom of why your little one isn’t sleeping and works with you to restore sleep to your household. www.bubbasleep.com.au

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

SWIM

Making t h e most of BABY & TODDLER SWIM LESSONS

Wondering whether baby swim lessons are worth it? (Spoiler alert—they totally are!)

“S

hould babies and toddlers take learn to swim classes?” “Isn’t it a waste of time until they are a little older?” “They don’t really learn anything…” “It’s nothing I can’t teach in my pool…” These are all common comments I often hear from parents, regarding their baby starting a learn to swim program. There are many misconceptions with babies learning to swim, such as ‘babies can’t learn to save themselves’ or ‘baby swimming is a waste of time and money’. But baby learn to swim programs are a critical part of a child’s aquatic education, as long as the program is not just all water play, songs and games, and splashing about! Studies have shown that the earlier you start your baby in an effective learn to swim program, the earlier they become strong, independent swimmers, which could save their life one day. When taught effectively, building on the skills they have gained in baby classes, young toddlers can develop a high degree of water safety skills, based off repetition of effective

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drowning prevention skills. To get the most out of your baby and toddler swim lessons, ensure the lessons are designed to develop independent drowning prevention skills. An element of swim lessons should involve water play, songs and games, but this should not take up the majority of time in swim classes. Most of the lesson time should be spent teaching real skills and working towards babies being independent in activities. Also, ensure you attend swim lessons consistently—don’t stop for the cooler months. Babies and toddlers don’t have a developed muscle memory, so life saving aquatic skills are only developed through regular, consistent learn to swim lessons, as part of an effective, progressive swim program that teaches real skills. Drowning rates are still much too high and there is much we can do, as a community, to work towards zero child drownings. Parents may have the attitude that child drowning will never affect them. We know this, tragically, is not always the truth. By Karen Baildon

Tips

• Start lessons when baby is as young as possible, most centres have lessons from 12 weeks. • Treat lessons with babies and toddlers with urgency—they are learning life saving skills that need to be mastered quickly. • Make sure you have water safety goals for your lessons—what would you like your baby to achieve? • Your baby will react to your attitude during swim lessons! Make lessons a happy, fun time. • Repetition and reinforcing the development of water skills through regular lessons is crucial. Babies and toddlers don’t have a developed muscle memory. • Lessons must be continued all year. Don’t stop lessons in the cooler months. Karen Baildon is an Aquatic Community Expert for ‘Swim Safer’, National Lecturer for Swim Australia and International Lecturer at the 2020 World Aquatic Development Conference, speaking on Effective Drowning Prevention for Babies & Toddlers. She is the founder and owner of Superfish Swim Schools, who are now in their 25th year operating in South East Queensland.

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Affordable Private Pregnancy Care Sunshine Obstetrics care about you and the costs associated with private obstetric care. This is why our group care model offers you uncompromised care at affordable prices. Throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal care our team of midwives and specialist obstetricians will work in collaboration to provide you with the best care during your pregnancy journey. We offer all our antenatal and postnatal appointments, including planning and management for $990* total out of pocket costs. Respected and Trusted Private Obstetricians Our respected and trusted team of private obstetricians will oversee your care during your pregnancy to ensure your physical and emotional needs are addressed and respected. It is important to us that we take the time to listen to you and your partner’s needs to ensure that your pregnancy care and experience is one that you’ll enjoy. Our Obstetricians Dr Kirsten Morrow Dr James Orford Dr George Bogiatzis Private Hospital Birthing To ensure that you receive the best possible care for you and your newborn baby, our obstetricians choose to birth patients at the Buderim Private Hospital, Sunshine Coast. The maternity unit will provide a caring and personalised birth experience and postnatal stay.

Private Pregnancy Care $990* Total out of pocket costs

(07) 5391 4088

reception@sunshineobstetrics.com.au www.sunshineobstetrics.com.au

Suite 3, Nucleus Medical Suites Building A 23 Elsa Wilson Drive Buderim *$990 is based on patients who have access to Medicare and have pregnancy private health

BABY TALK

Though the funny conversations with your baby might seem nonsensical, these chats are doing wonders for their development.

t first, it feels a little silly chatting to a newborn. After all, they don’t understand what you are saying and what exactly should you talk about? However, the more you talk with your baby, the better. Even if Bub doesn’t have the words yet, they will be listening and trying to join in the conversation! Every word and every gesture you make, they are absorbing every moment, building their understanding of language and communication. “Literacy is an emerging skill that begins at birth and these early skills are critical to build the foundation of literacy—without them, the more complex skills of reading and writing can be difficult to master,” explains Karen Gawen, Young People’s Services Supervisor from Sunshine Coast Council. “Studies have found that those children who have plenty of opportunities to talk with engaged adults each day are less likely to experience difficulty with literacy when they reach school.” Don’t worry that they don’t understand the exact meaning. “When you repeat words, the speech and language parts of the brain are stimulated. The more language they hear, the more those parts of the brain will grow and develop,” says Karen.

What kind of talking All taking is good! Try and talk as much as

you can throughout your day about whatever is happening in your shared world. “It’s not something to be forced or preplanned, and it doesn’t have to be about anything significant,” Karen says. “Talk about preparing meals, things you see in the park, what’s happening as you are playing— it might seem a little inconsequential to you but it’s all really important to your baby.” Keep it gentle and positive, so all corresponding gestures are calm too. “By communicating in a gentle way, it strengthens your bond whilst teaching them about the world.”

Tips and tricks The most important thing for parents to do is to be fully present when talking. “Tune into your child. Turn off the TV and do whatever you need to give them your undivided attention,” Karen says. Help your child learn about conversation by pausing and giving your child time to respond. And, as they learn to talk, give them time to find the words—try not to finish their sentences and make sure they are finished before you talk. “Notice what your child is interested in and talk about those things, and mention experiences you have shared: ‘It’s raining! Remember that time we got stuck in the rain?’”

Rather than avoiding using new words, explain their meaning and build on them by using them in several different sentences: ‘Molly is going to the vet today. The vet is a doctor that looks after animals.’

Reading Reading to your baby is another easy way to talk and build those early literacy skills. “Try and read a story together every day from birth,” said Karen. “After a few weeks, Bub will know that this is the special quiet time you enjoy together.” Let your baby choose what to read, turn the pages, play with the book—even if it is the same story every night! “Rather than just reading the words, talk about the story and make up silly voices—you can even make up your own stories!” says Karen.

Singing is good for literacy too Singing songs and using rhyme are simple yet very effective ways of introducing language to your baby. “Songs have a lot of repetition and they often slow down language whilst having accompanying actions, making it a fun and expressive way to encounter new words,” Karen explains. Sing songs and rhymes in the car, in the bath or whenever you have five minutes to sit together.

To find out more about early literacy activities at your local library—both online and in-person—head to www.library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

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ENVIRONMENT

The plastics in disposable nappies take 200-500 years to break down, All this plastic and waste can be removed simply by using cloth nappies.

THE SIMPLE WAY TO CLOTH Want to use cloth nappies, but need some help getting started? Rosemary and Ashley, co-owners at Cottontail Nappy Service, explain why a cloth nappy service is the best gift for any new mum.

Freshly sanitised cloth nappies, delivered to your door

What is a cloth nappy service?

Why use cloth nappies?

A cloth nappy service is a hire service where you can use cloth nappies for your baby, and someone else does all the hard work! It’s as easy as leaving your bag of dirty nappies at your front door and having us exchange it for freshly sanitised nappies.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics list the number of births for the Sunshine Coast last year as 3,535. With each child using an average of 6,500 disposable nappies,and working on the current national average of only 5 per cent of those babies using cloth nappies, that means the Sunshine Coast birth rate contributes 23,347,000 plastic disposable nappies into our eco-system. The plastics in disposable nappies take 200-500 years to break down, long after your children, grandchildren and great, great, great grandchildren will be gone. All this plastic and waste can be removed simply by using cloth nappies.

What is included? The hire service kit includes everything you need for your clothing journey. This includes: • Up to 50 modern cloth nappies (MCNs), boosted bamboo inserts, charcoal inserts (night time inserts), dry nappy pail, wet bags, travel wet bags, and an odour eliminating shaker. • Twice a week we pick up dirty nappies and drop off clean nappies to families across the Sunshine Coast. • We include a free at home consultation to show you how the nappies work and to answer any questions, and you have unlimited and direct contact with our cloth nappy experts to help you every step of the way. All this for only $39.95 per week!

Do you cloth childcare centres too? Yes, absolutely! We provide a service for the Child Care and Early Learning Industry, where every child at the centre can be in cloth nappies! We tailor each centre as an individual, where the cloth nappy servicing fits into the centre easily with no need to change your routine. We provide everything for the centre and there will be nothing for the centre to buy.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N A B O U T C O T T O N TA I L P R O D U C T S A N D S E R V I C E S , H E A D T O W W W.C O T T O N TA I L S E R V I C E .C O M . A U /

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Dream Wearable Weighted Sleep Sack This gentle weighted sleep sack mimics your familiar touch of Mama’s hand, which then increases relaxation through deep-pressure stimulation to give baby feelings of security and comfort to help your baby sleep through the night.

Help bub fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer

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• Improved sleep & relaxation • Increases serotonin & melatonin while decreasing cortisol • Temperature regulating cotton, suitable for all seasons with 0.6 tog. • Created in collaboration with USA Doctor, NICU & Certified Sleep Consultant • Quality craftsmanship • Safety certified • ACCC approved • 50,000+ sold in the USA • StyleBub is the Australian distributor • Available in 3 sizes (Small 0-6mths/ Medium 6-12mths/ Large 12-24mths)

284 Bryant Road, Bollier. QLD. 4570 | info@stylebub.com.au | www.stylebub.com.au |

@style.bub

R E L AT I O N S H I P S

Resolve issues that

ave you ever been annoyed by something and fumed about it on the inside, only upsetting yourself more and more? This behaviour can become detrimental to your mental health and relationship harmony over time. Some examples: Don’t they know that I need their help with the morning routine? If they loved me, they would know that I need help and they would help me more. I’m so annoyed. Everyone is holding me up this morning. I have to be at a meeting in 10 minutes and now I’m going to be late. Internalising in this way and not discussing problems with the people involved can be a useless exercise. Often the only person affected is you. Solving the issue At the centre of almost every conflict I encounter as a mediator is a breakdown in communication, a lack of shared information, a lack of context, a misunderstanding or an incorrect assumption. These errors tear people apart and quickly spiral out of control. Many conflicts can be rectified through purposeful and clear communication. A step-by-step guide: 1. As a starting point, try to accept that most people do not have the time or energy to maliciously make your life difficult.

MATTER TO YOU 2. Have compassion. Nobody is perfect. We all make mistakes. We can all do better. 3. Ask yourself, is this an important issue? Give it a ranking out of 10, 1 being the lowest and 10 being the highest level of importance. 4. If it is an important issue to you, define what the issue really is. Write it down. Do not generalise or exaggerate. Be specific about what and when it happened. 5. Be curious to learn about the other person's perspective. 6. Ask yourself, 'why is it an issue?' Understand your reaction before you start up a conversation. 7. What can you do to resolve the issue? Are there things you could do differently? 8. If not, what are you going to ask of the other person? Is your request reasonable? 9. How can you create a focused opportunity for both of you to talk about the issue? Effective communication takes more time and is more challenging but, as we know, you only get out what you put in. If you have an important issue in your life and would like support in managing a conversation with the other person, consider mediation services as a path to solving the issue in a structured and respectful manner.

KATE CLARK, LEGAL DIRECTOR OF CLARK & ASSOCIATES MEDIATION SERVICES, is an Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and a Nationally Accredited Mediator. www.clarkmediation.com.au | 0417 756 410 | Suite 13/102 Burnett Street, Buderim | @respectful_resolutions

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KINDY

A space to enjoy explore, create, run and get dirty.

risks where they become, in a sense, the catalyst of their own curriculum. By allowing the children to ‘be children’, they explore and learn about their world and themselves through play, which is intentionally organised to promote further thinking and analysis.

Where is the bush kindy located? We are extremely lucky to be set within the Suncoast Christian College grounds and be able to access all areas. Behind our service we have large bushland with large trees, creek bed, and plenty of space to explore and gather, right at our finger tips.

T H E S U N S HI N E COA ST

bush babies

What do the kids do in each session?

As open-ended outdoor play becomes less accessible for many, families, we chat to Krystle Cullen from Suncoast Christian College Little Learners to find out about the nature play adventures to be had at their flourishing bush kindy. Why did the College start the bush kindy eight years ago? The bush kindy grew out of our regular trips to the College Bush Chapel, where the children would have morning tea. Almost by accident, we came to realise how much the children loved the adventure, the bush, the mud and the insects. Now, Bush Kindy is the thing the children look forward to most at Little Learners.

Why is nature play such an important part of early learning? The Little Learners team has always been a strong advocate of nature play, believing that is it fundamental for every child. For children, play is learning. Nature play significantly improves all aspects

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Educators don’t generally put in place a routine but rather let the children explore freely, moving or staying at a chosen activity. We allow our children to immerse themselves in the environment.

How many kids can attend, and what ages does it cater for? All of our children enrolled at the service can participate, with children as young as two and a half participating. We find that our Bush Kindy days are our most popular, There are many families on the waitlist with children eager to experience the adventure.

of child development: physical, cognitive, social and emotional. Playing outdoors grows resilience, self-confidence, initiative, creativity and more. It encourages the joy of movement and it nurtures wild imaginations, experimentation, friendships, “Playing social connections and behaviour. outdoors grows

Is the bush kindy part of the classroom curriculum?

Why do you think the program has become so popular?

I believe our program has been successful in many ways. It not only allows the children the freedom of unscheduled play, but also creates a space for them to negotiate, analyse, run, create, dream, explore and get dirty. We measure our success on our Bush Kindy’s popularity—there is never any children who don’t want to go, instead they are always asking to stay longer!

resilience, self-confidence, initiative, creativity and more.”

Bush Kindy is part of our curriculum and supports our centre philosophy. We acknowledge that children are full of curiosity about themselves, their environment and the world they live in. We advocate for children to question and reflect on their own ideas, as well as those around them, and to take

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

ART THERAPY

Healing children through

ART D

rawing and creating is a natural part of childhood, and research is increasingly finding that these activities are also beneficial to health and wellbeing. Because of this, art therapy is now rightly recognised as an essential component of childhood development, behaviour management and overall health and wellbeing. “Children’s involvement in arts activities are considered ‘multimodal interventions’, in that they combine different components that are known to be beneficial to health and wellbeing,” explains Behaviour Specialist Kasia Palko. “Arts activities can involve aesthetic engagement, utilisation of imagination, sensory activation, evocation of emotion and cognitive stimulation. Art activities may also involve social interaction, physical activity, and engagement and interaction within a therapeutic setting.” Arts activities can engage and trigger psychological, physiological, social and behavioural responses that are linked with positive health outcomes.

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“When children are painting, sculpting or doing crafts, there is an aesthetic and emotional component to their work that provides opportunities for emotional expression and emotional regulation, as well as stress reduction. These are intrinsic to how we manage our mental health.” Art can also make children view obstacles differently as there is no ‘wrong answer’ to creativity. “Such an attitude can play a large role in providing a sense of optimism for a child, not to mention a feeling of accomplishment upon the completion of an artistic task, both of which are essential to building confidence within children,” Kasia says. Art experiences can also improve a child’s relationships with peers. “The social aspects of artistic interaction with other children can improve a child’s self-esteem and self-belief, whilst reducing feelings of loneliness and experiences of discrimination, which are linked with future mental illness and other conditions such as depression, chronic pain and

headaches,” Kasia continues. In terms of the physical, the arts can reduce a child’s sedentary behaviours, which are associated with obesity, depression and chronic pain in adult life, and can also encourage health-promoting behaviours such as eating healthy food and experimenting with play. Art therapy also has the potential to address some of the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). “Art therapy promotes sensory regulation, facilitates communication and supports psychomotor development, all while enhancing psycho-emotional wellbeing.” Research has also found art therapy is an effective intervention to reduce anger and increase self-esteem in aggressive children. “A recent study used art therapy once a week on a a group of aggressive children aged 7-11 years old,” Kasia explains. “After 10 weeks of art therapy, the group showed a significant reduction of anger and improvement of self-esteem.”

More information at www.kasiapalko.com.au

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

BENEFITS OF ART THERAPY NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION For children who cannot verbalise emotions, thoughts or sensations, or who are afraid to speak about a specific event, art can be a powerful form of nonverbal communication. DEVELOPMENT Artistic development can help psychologists to better understand the developmental stages of a child that might not become apparent in talk therapy alone. SELF REGULATION Specific art activities can be very effective in calming the body and mind, improving mood. EXPRESSION Art is an opportunity to express a metaphor or enhance storytelling. With the support of a therapist, this can be an effective way for a child to externalise their internal feelings and safely release any trauma. CHILD–THERAPIST CONNECTION Art is a relational therapy that involves an active and positive dynamic between therapist and child. Shared art experiences deepen the connection with the child, ensuring they feel understood and accepted and opening up further channels of communication.

BALLET JAZZ

ACRO

TAP

Dr Caroline Hughes - Paediatrician Consulting in 2 locations across the Sunshine Coast

HIP HOP

CONTEMPORARY LYRICAL VOCAL

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DANCE EDGE STUDIOS

Calling all kids turning 3 to 4 in 2021. ENROL NOW for Monday & Friday morning magic and giggles.

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Please see your family doctor for a referral Pulse Specialist Centre Suite 605 11 Eccles Blvd, Birtinya QLD 4575

Gympie Specialist Clinic 2/71 Channon St Gympie QLD 4570

Tel: (07) 5408 7419 Email: reception@nurturepaediatrics.com.au M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

H E A LT H

KICKING OFF

A LOVE FOR SPORT

arch is a very important month for many kids (and parents). Not because it’s the start of autumn, but because it’s the start of the football (soccer) season. As the most played sport in Australia, football is one the most inclusive and widely available sports for kids today. And with programs starting for children as young as 18 months old, it’s a sport that girls and boys can play for their whole lives—from a kickaround at the park through to a burgeoning range of elite programs and all ages teams. “I love this time of year!” said Alex Ollier from Little Kickers Sunshine Coast. “Every March, the kids that have come through my Little Kickers program head to outdoor football for the first time as Under 6s. The parents send me photos and messages of how well they are doing and how happily they’ve settled into a team. I’m always so proud!” As one of the leading preschool soccer programs in Australia, Little Kickers is where many children’s love for the World Game begins. Held indoors and operating year-round, the program consists of four different classes tailored specifically to the needs of children

between 18 months and seven years of age. it’s a worldwide sport for everyone,” Alex “It’s a perfect way to get kids interested in said. “And with such a strong representation a sport and being active. They don’t realise across all ages, football is a sport that you they are learning because they are having so can stick with for life.” much fun!” said Alex. “After all, what child Dad and Under 6s coach Alastair agrees. doesn’t like to chase around a ball?!” “You can really tell the kids that have gone Alex believes a lot of the through a preschool football BENEFITS OF program’s success is due to their program and those who have FOOTBALL two core beliefs. “Firstly, we never played before,” Alastair • Develops social skills believe in teaching football in a said. “Their gross motor skills • Develops gross motor skills and coordination are always fun, pressure-free environment. • Improves coordination We want to give children a notably better and they are more and agility positive introduction to sport switched on to what’s happening • Encourages teamwork as a whole, not just football, on the field. Most importantly, and responsibility so they’re more likely to stay these kids are the ones that seem • Boosts self-confidence healthy and active throughout to stick at it. You can see that the and self-esteem their lives. Secondly, we believe love for the sport is already there, • Increases concentration football can be educational. they are ready, confident and and focus Coached in the right way, it can excited to be in the team.” • Promotes cognitive development stimulate imagination and aid Of course, let’s not forget the early development skills such parents—after all, we need to as learning colours and numbers, following drive them around and support them! instructions and playing as a team.” “Football clubs are fun to be at!” said mum As a low contact, agility-based sport, Louise. “The team spirit between the parents football is equally appealing to both girls is usually great, and it’s non competitive and boys. “It’s the inclusivity that I love the until U12s—so the whole experience most about football—no matter what your throughout the junior years is about having ability or background, there’s no prejudice, fun and playing as a team.”

Find out more at Little Kickers Sunshine Coast: 0458 782 922 | Email: sunshinecoast@littlekickers.com.au | www.littlekickers.com.au

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Classes on offer Providing services at Buderim Private Hospital, Buderim Suite 18, Building B, Nucleus Medical Suites, 23 Elsa Wilson Drive, Buderim, 4556 Phone 5444 4433 info@drkylieisaacs.com.au • www.drkylieisaacs.com.au

Cherubs: 16 months–2.5 years Mummy & Me: 2–3.5 years Kinderballet Tots & Kiddies: 3–5 years Kinderballet Next Steps: Prep–Y1 Kinderballet Aspire: Y2 & Y3 Junior Jazz & Cheer: 5–9 years

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THINGS TO DO

ALL ABOARD! We take the family for a trip on the Mary Valley Rattler

ith a two-year-old that loves anything that ‘choochoos’—from Thomas the Tank Engine to Pepper Pig's Train Adventure—there were squeals of delight when we announced we were going on The Mary Valley Rattler. Our little cherub was amazed while watching the Polar Express, but nothing compared to the magic of this real rail experience! We arrived early enough to wander through the station's historic display, which was a fabulous insight into the story of the iconic train line. Greeted by a very friendly volunteer named Robert, nickname ‘86’, we heard the whistle announcing departure from Gympie, and off we went! Now, this trip was not just about the whooshes of steam, oh no! There was so much to learn on the journey, including how important the Rattler was to the

community. I didn’t know that Gympie was said to be ‘the town that saved Queensland’ (with the discovery of Gold in 1867). With so many cattle to view, tunnels to zoom through, rivers to cross and the locals waving as we passed, our little one was kept amused the whole way. On arrival at Amamoor Station, there was a little market and a friendly café with live music. We enjoyed having a good dance to the band, who were delighted they had such a big (little) fan. We also got to see the train turn on a turntable, which was quite exciting for all! The train has refreshments to purchase onboard on the lovely, relaxing journey back to Gympie. Our little one had a magical day aboard the Mary Valley Rattler! For kids through to grandparents, it is a magical slice of history for the whole family. By Francesca Goad

Choo choo!

The route winds its way through the beautiful Sunshine Coast Hinterland

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The BEST kids’ playroom in Noosa!

Amy Beccari Dance Studios

The Noosa Leisure Centre Kids’ Playroom is open for casual play sessions for pre-school aged children every day of the week.

* Sunshine Coast family friendly dance studio

Let them climb on our NEW climbing wall, jump, swing, bounce and balance in air-conditioned comfort in a safe environment while you relax with a coffee and light snack from our café.

* Classes for boys and girls aged 3 and over * Free trial lessons

Only $5.00 per child entry!

9 Wallace Drive, Noosaville (07) 5329 6550

@abdskids www.abdskids.com.au Mountain Creek Studio

noosaleisurecentre.com.au

FRESH MEATS

FRESH & INSPIRED WITH GOOD OLD-FASHIONED SERVICE

ROAST LEG OF LAMB

OPEN 7 DAYS! Mon-Fri: 7am - 6pm Sat: 7am - 5pm Sun: 8am - 4pm

CLOSED GOOD FRIDAY, OPEN EASTER WEEKEND

RECIP E FO EASTR ER

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

• 1 large leg of lamb, approx 3kg • 6 garlic cloves, minced (cut 1 clove into thin wedges) • 1 bunch rosemary • 1 bunch oregano • 1 lemon, juiced and zested • 6 tbsp olive oil • 1.5 kg potatoes • 400g can diced tomatoes • 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives

1. Preheat oven to 240C. Combine minced garlic, lemon zest, half the oregano and a pinch of salt with pestle and mortar. 2. Mix in lemon juice and 1-2 tbsp of olive oil. 3. Score lamb with a small, sharp knife and stuff holes with herb paste. Insert garlic wedge and small sprig of rosemary. 4. Toss potatoes in remaining olive oil and herb paste. Place lamb in the centre and roast for 20 min, then reduce temperature to 180C for 1.5 to 2+ hours. 5. Baste every 30 min and shuffle potatoes. Remove lamb and let rest. 6. Simmer tomatoes and olives in pan juice over medium heat. Serve with potatoes, sliced lamb and your favourite greens.

86 WISES RD MAROOCHYDORE Phone 07 5451 0533 • orders@freshmeats.com.au • freshmeats.com.au

LOCAL LIFE

ONE MAMA’S UNIQUE APPROACH TO

Ocean Conservation

Passionate about sustainability and working with children, kindergarten teacher Trudie Mckay has created a unique way to bring ocean conservation to life. WHERE DID THE IDEA FOR TREVY’S T R I C K Y D AY C O M E F R O M ? I’ve always been passionate about our oceans and, working with kindergarten children, I’m always looking for ways to bring learning to life. Over the last 15 years, I’ve noticed a significant shift towards teaching children about the environment, but I felt the early learning classroom was still lacking in childfriendly resources around sustainability. So, I created the story of Trevy’s Tricky Day and accompanied it with a fun turtle activity for my students. The activity involved a student taking our toy turtle home each week and showing him what they do in their own home to look after the environment. They would take photographs of their sustainable activities around the home and share them with the class. It was so successful at engaging the

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children that the resource was adopted by other classes, then local families. So, after it proved so popular, I took the leap and decided to publish the activity pack professionally.

Children love to take Trevy home to show him all the sustainable things they do.

what they are doing at home makes them think about the many little sustainable things they are already doing. Sharing this with the class gives the rest of the children ideas for what they could do at home themselves. It is also an activity that encourages lots of discussion in the classroom about respecting the environment. Children are so proud to share their sustainable ventures. They all absolutely adore having Trevy come to stay! I’ve also found that the lessons that are included in the back of the book really stick with the kids. For example, I recently re-read the book to students who did the activity last year and they remembered all the facts they’d learnt from Trevy and the tips on how children can look after ocean wildlife. WHY DID YOU WANT TO MAKE IT S P E C I F I C A L LY A B O U T T H E SUNSHINE COAST? I love the Sunshine Coast and really wanted to celebrate the incredible ocean life we are blessed with here. I also wanted the children to connect personally with the story, so we included many landmarks that they could spot on the page, such as beach at Mooloolaba and the lighthouse at Point Cartwright. I’m also a firm believer in supporting local business, so I tried to use local companies wherever I could—such as for the printing and publishing.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR TREVY? WHY DO YOU FEEL THE I’ve already had such fun creating I love the APPROACH IS SO sharing Trevy’s Tricky Day, Sunshine Coast and SUCCESSFUL? I just hope to continue getting and wanted the message out there! Following I certainly had the advantage the success of the activity pack of working in the industry, to celebrate so I know what links with the the incredible and book, I’m hoping to create program for early childhood curriculum, what gaps there ocean life we aservices about looking after are in the resources and, most have here ocean wildlife. And the growth importantly, what works for kids. of Trevy’s Tricky Day on social Rather than just reading a book media also means I can use these and discussing the story, the platforms to actively support community interactivity of taking the turtle into your programs such as Clean Up for the Turtles. own home engages the children on many www.beachlifebooks.com.au levels. Showing the turtle and documenting K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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Stay on a real working dairy farm! With 150 acres of pristine rainforest to explore, guests can milk a cow, feed calves, goats, pigs and chickens and collect eggs. Our self-contained 2 and 3 bedroom cottages are set on a ridge overlooking Lake Baroon and the Kondalilla National Park. We now also do led pony rides! EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF THE

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‘THE NEXT GEN’ We meet the locals kids bringing a positive change to the world AND the schools making that possible

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Through her creative observational techniques, Kasia develops behavioural management systems to help children interact with their environment, families and peers.

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THE CAT RETREAT CAFE

W: catretreatcafe.com.au P: 0448 228 578 A: 129 Dales Road, Chevallum

OPEN THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS 9:30AM - 2:30PM

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Bring the kids along to our cat themed cafe to enjoy our yummy snacks and drinks. Or, book a session in our interactive cat environment, The Zen Zone for only $15/ purrson. Bookings essential. • Love & rehabilitate refuge cats • Ultimate cat lover’s experience • Encourages positive wellbeing • Controlled, relaxed environment

T&Cs apply - minimum age is 5 years old

BUBBA SLEEP

W: bubbasleep.com.au P: 0406 690 002 E: info@bubbasleep.com.au

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

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

GDL NATURE PLAY SPACES

W: gdlnatureplacespaces.com.au P: 0410 863 756 | Sunshine Coast Specialists in the design and construction of nature-based play spaces. We can offer custom-made spaces that bring your ideas to life. From early learning centres, schools, public spaces and private. We use our concept plans, work closely with you and gain inspiration from the children’s ideas to bring the best possible solutions to your space and budget.

SUNNY COAST BABY & KIDS MARKET

W: www.sunnycoastbabykidsmarket.com.au P: 0403 883 903 Talara Primary College, Caloundra: 28 Mar, 20 Jun, 29 Aug, 28 Nov Mountain Creek Primary School: 21 Feb, 23 May, 25 Jul, 24 Oct The Sunny Coast Baby and Kids Market is a locally owned market selling pre-loved, new and beautiful handmade items. Come and experience the smarter way to shop!

Pre-loved stalls $40 Free bounty bags Books, toys & clothes Cots & Prams Indoor market! K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

DID YOU KNOW?

Snuggly, wriggly and oh-so precious, babies are fascinating little bundles of joy. But did you know these weird and wonderful facts about babies? A BABY IS BORN WITH 300 BONES AT BIRTH. THESE EVENTUALLY FUSE TOGETHER TO FORM THE 206 BONES THAT ADULTS HAVE.

Newborns can hear as well as an adult. They startle at just about anything, not because it’s softer or louder, but because these sounds are new to them. DURING THE NINE MONTHS IN THE WOMB, A BABY’S WEIGHT INCREASES A WHOPPING 3 MILLION TIMES!

Babies feel sleepy all the time. During the first few days, a baby will be alert for just three minutes in every hour of the day and less at night. A baby’s brain can use up to 60% of their total glucose supply, which can explain why babies need so much sleep. ONCE A BABY HAS LEARNED TO LAUGH, THEY LAUGH, ON AVERAGE, 300 TIMES A DAY, WHILE ADULTS LAUGH ONLY 60 TIMES. SEEMS THAT BABIES ENJOY LIFE MUCH MORE THAN WE DO!

Babies cry in your accent! They pick up their mother’s native tongue in the last three months of pregnancy, and this is reflected in their cries after birth. So, you can tell between babies of different nationalities by their cries and gurgles. WHEN A BABY IS IN THE WOMB, THEY USE ONE HAND MORE THAN THE OTHER. THEY WILL PREFER TO USE THE SAME ONE AFTER BIRTH TOO.

Newborn babies can only see black and white for the first few months of their life. AROUND THE WORLD, AN AVERAGE OF 4.5 BABIES ARE BORN EVERY SECOND.

Babies are born with 30,000 taste buds, compared to the average adult’s 10,000. Yep, that one-ingredient puree is a taste sensation for them!

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

REVIEWS

BOOKS

DRAGON’S EASTER HUNT

By Roger Priddy

A fun-packed novelty book all about Easter but with a magical twist which toddlers will love. Instead of the Easter Bunny delivering eggs, the Easter Dragon is stepping in! With press-out eggs and die-cuts hidden under the flaps on every page, kids can help Dragon deliver Easter eggs to all the creatures in the magical kingdom. The press-out pieces can be reused and there is lots to spot on every page, so the book can be enjoyed time and time again. For ages 0-2.

APPS

ICEBERG

RISE OF THE MYTHIX: FLIGHT OF THE GRIFFIN

By Claire Saxby, illustrated by Jess Racklyeft

By Anh Do, illustrated by Chris Wahl

Ocean, sky, snow and ice—minute greens and giant blues—dance a delicate dance in this evocative portrayal of the life cycle of an iceberg. From when it is born in spring, it travels through the seasons before dying in a new spring. Informative and factual yet poetic and sophsticated, this narrative non-fiction book is a stunning, lyrical story for our times from renowned picture book creators Claire Saxby and Jess Racklyeft. For ages 5-8.

The Unicorn, Minotaur and Griffin are united at last. Surely, together, they will be unstoppable. But the evil Collector is not going to give up without an epic fight, and not all the beasts of legend are on the side of good... Will our heroes finally fulfil their destiny? This is another exciting page turner from Anh Do, one of Australia’s best-loved storytellers. His books, including Wolf Girl, E-Boy, WeirDo and Skydragon, are adored by millions of kids around the country. For ages 10-14.

TEACH YOUR MONSTER TO READ Free Teach Your Monster to Read is an awardwinning phonics and reading game that’s helped millions of children learn to read. Children create a monster and take it on a magical journey over three extensive games—meeting a host of colourful characters along the way and improving their reading skills as they progress. It covers the first two years of learning to read, from matching letters and sounds to enjoying little books.

M A R C H / A P R I L 2021

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

@ kawana

PLAY, EAT & SHOP Enjoy

a great range of family friendly options at Kawana Shoppingworld:

• • • • • • •

Exclusive deals, prizes and activities via the Kawana Shoppingworld Rewards App Delicious food options in our Food Court & Outdoor Dining Precinct Planet Arcades: find them on Ground Floor of the Event Cinemas car park Event Cinemas: including the only Gold Class and Vmax on the Sunshine Coast Cheeky Little Monkeys Play Centre: find them near The Reject Shop Parents with Prams Parking and Parents’ Rooms Indoor playgrounds: find them in the Food Court and at the Ally Fashion Entrance

Join Mums & Co., our local community for Mums, Dads, Grandparents and anyone who takes care of little people. Be the first to hear out about special events and offers. Join here: www.kawanashoppingworld.com.au/subscribe

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e r u t n e v Ad in Prep discovery, h it w d e ll fi Each day is or a personal f s u in o J . e w ment and a wonder, excite ence life at ri e p x e d n a rs e ach tour, meet our te . Suncoast Prep

Suncoast students embark on an exciting learning journey as they discover their own unique place in the world.

a. Cnr Schubert & Kiel Mtn Rds, Woombye p. 5451 3600 | suncoastcc.qld.edu.au/prep

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