Kids on the Coast Magazine | Sunshine Coast - Issue 108: Winter 2022

EXPERT TIPS FOR CHOOSING A SCHOOL

Brightwater State School

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0 1 s n r u t ISSUE 108 Winter 2022

THE WONDER OF INTERGENERATIONAL LEARNING

Discover.

Achieve.

Belong.

At Immanuel, the whole person is the whole point.

Discover the Immanuel difference.

Contact us today to register for our 25 August Open Morning.

www.immanuel.qld.edu.au

WELCOME

C

hoosing the right education pathway for our kids is one of the harder choices we have to make as parents.

It’s a decision that can be fraught with uncertainty, and one that is often influenced by our own past experiences.

As a new mum I was always amazed by those parents in my mother’s group who had already chosen and enrolled their babies into a school, when I couldn’t even decide on which onesie Bub would wear/ spew on that day.

So, to help you choose the right school for your tribe, this issue we are focusing on the secrets of our local schools. The programs you might not hear about; the unique things that make a school so special.

We visit Brightwater State School as it celebrates its 10th birthday, to find

out what makes this progressive school so popular. And we chat to Immanuel Lutheran College to find out how intergenerational learning is creating beautiful experiences for the whole community.

We also head over to Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure to learn about its reconciliation program teaching kids to care for Country. And we take a peek behind the doors at the new Montessori Early Learning Centre opening in Peregian. Plus our friends over at Parentline have some great tips on choosing a school.

And, as always, we have all the latest news, reviews, events and more, to keep the family toasty and happy this winter.

Winter SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

READ NOW!

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

THE TEAM

OWNER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Angela Sutherland

OWNER & PUBLISHER Helen Rush

DIGITAL EDITOR Calista Bruschi

NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Natalie Rayment

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Rebecca Pinese

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tanya Nissen

GRAPHIC DESIGN Emma Henderson

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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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CONTENTS

FEATURES 19

26

EDUCATION: Brightwater State School turns 10! We pop along to this progressive school to share in the celebrations.

COMMUNITY: We visit Immanuel Lutheran College where intergenerational connections are helping the community to flourish.

PUBLISHED BY

SH RE

MEDIA

PO Box 852, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573 inbox@shoremedia.com.au

More than a magazine, we are a vibrant community, bringing the best in local news, events, features and more to parents across

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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.

ENQUIRIES: Sunshine Coast/Gold Coast: helen@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706 Brisbane: natalie@shoremedia.com.au 0416 245 290

FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: GISELLE IMAGES / WWW.GISELLEIMAGES.COM.AU

REGULARS WHAT’S ON: Events and activities for kids this winter............................................................ 6 THINGS TO DO: What’s on at Queensland Garden Expo 2022......................................... 12 NEWS: Community news from across the Sunshine Coast ................................................... 14 CHECK THIS OUT: Our favourite kid-sized gear for baby and beyond ............................ 16 ARTS & CULTURE: A sneak peek at what’s in store at Horizon Festival 2022............... 22 EARLY LEARNING: We go behind the doors at the Coast’s new Montessori ELC.......... 24 EDUCATION: A new primary precinct for Sunshine Coast Grammar School.................... 31 HEALTH: Expert advice for living with lactose...................................................................... 34 TUTORING: How to build confidence with tutoring............................................................. 36 EARLY LEARNING: The little things that make a big difference in an ELC..................... 38 EDUCATION: We take a tour of Nirimba’s new primary school ........................................ 40 PARENTING: Top tips for choosing a school......................................................................... 42 THINGS TO DO: Let’s go on a story adventure!.................................................................. 44 EARLY LEARNING: The early learning centre raising kids that care for Country........... 46 ACTIVITIES: Engage students in a game they will love........................................................ 52 LOCAL LIFE: Come with us to the most adorable kids shop on the Coast!...................... 54 TRAVEL: The ultimate family staycation................................................................................. 59 CLASSIFIEDS: Family-friendly products and services ........................................................ 65 We encourage recycling. lP ease keep this issue o f r future reference, pass onto your friends and af mily, use o f r craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

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WINTER 2022 BOOKING DEADLINES Booking deadline: 9 August 2022 Published: 7 September 2022 Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across Southeast 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

Heated Waterpark

- Self contained 2 and 3 bedroom Villas, Cabins, Terraces or Bungalows - A range of caravan and camping sites - Plenty of indoors and outdoors activities to keep the kids entertained.

- Monster Waterpark—now heated - Heated Pool with wading pool, and Spa - Jumping Pillow - Nibbles Café and Nibbles Terrace (Dog friendly) - 1/2 size basketball court - Saltwater creek for fishing

MAGIC IN EVERY STAY Set on 32 acres, with a range of accommodation options, outdoor activities, camp kitchens and licensed cafe, separate small and large dog parks. We are also located next door to all major theme parks.

P: (07) 5514 4400 | E: stay@gcpark.com.au | W: goldcoastholidaypark.com.au

WHAT’S ON WINTER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS AND THEIR GROWN UPS VISIT KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU FOR MORE EVENTS!

DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID JR

JULY 8 - 9 The J, Noosa In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home—and her fins—behind and live in the world above. This iconic musical featuring hits such as ‘Under the Sea’, ‘Part of Your World’ and many more is coming to The J Noosa this July! little-seed.com.au

FLINDERS SENIOR PRIMARY DISCOVERY EVENING

AUGUST 2 | 5.30pm - 7pm Matthew Flinders Anglican College, Buderim Families considering a Flinders education are invited to attend the Senior Primary Discovery Evening in the College’s new Flagship Centre. Parents and students will hear from Flinders’ Head of Primary, Mrs Trudi Edwards and Head of Senior Primary, Mrs Ingrid Clarke and engage in Discovery Stations showcasing the rich and vibrant academic and learning programs and approaches on offer at Flinders’ Senior Primary from Years 4 to 6.

Book your place via their website. mfac.edu.au/discover

JULY 4 - 8 Goodlife Centre, Buderim Fast track your child’s swimming ability with an intensive holiday swim program at Goodlife.

Offered throughout the winter school holiday, it’s the perfect time to accelerate your child’s swimming and water education.

Small classes in an indoor heated pool for children age three to pre-squad. goodlife.org.au

HORIZON FESTIVAL 2022

Credit: Samantha Laine Smith

AUGUST 26 SEPTEMBER 4 Sunshine Coast Horizon Festival is the Coast’s leading multi-arts festival and this year has an incredible kids program, with most activity taking place in Cotton Tree Park.

Enjoy shows, activities and workshops for little people and their families to play, make, dance, sing, laugh and learn. horizonfestival.com.au SEE PROGR AM HERE

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PLAY SCHOOL LIVE IN CONCERT: ONCE UPON A TIME Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast & Toowoomba The ABC Play School Concerts are coming to Queensland this June and July with their new live show Once Upon a Time.

Watch classic nursery rhyme characters magically come to life as the pages of the storybook are turned in this exciting new production. Visit the website or visit the facebook page to see which presenters will be at your show! kidspromotions.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

* 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.

SWIM INTENSIVES

Childcare Centre now open in Central Maroochydore

Award winning educators & professionals with over 35 years of experience in early childhood care and education, have designed this centre.

We offer busy families

Delicious meals for your children prepared on site by our chef Appealing, well equipped, unique indoor and outdoor play spaces Nappies for 0-3 yr olds Opportunities to develop creative thinking

...where every day is an adventure

To reserve your place call Gaylyn on 5413 8099 or Pam 0412 525 426 newspaperpl@outandabout.net.au

WHAT’S ON WINTER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS AND THEIR GROWN UPS VISIT KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU FOR MORE EVENTS!

TROPICANA PUTT PUTT

JUNE 25 - JULY 10 BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park The school holidays will be packed with fun activities for the whole familyat Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park! Chris the Magician and Mr Kaboodle will be there to entertain the kids, plus movie nights for the whole family, and a few activities the adults can enjoy as well. Keep an eye out for the ‘What’s on this week’ updates on their facebook page. goldcoastholidaypark.com.au

WINTER ICE SKATING

DAILY | Iceworld, Acacia Ridge & Boondall It might be a cold and wet winter, so why not have fun in the cold/wet but indoors? Iceworld Olympic Ice Rinks are the place to be this winter! Fully stocked cafes available, great music and whole lot of fun with your friends!

Visit website for session times. iceworld.com.au

THE ALPHABET OF AWESOME SCIENCE

FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN

JUNE 27 - JULY 8 | Kawana Shoppingworld This winter school holidays, Kawana Shoppingworld is bringing the outdoors in with two weeks of interactive nature-inspired kids’ workshops!

Plus, to celebrate Minions: The Rise of Gru, Kawana Shoppingworld is hosting free Minions Meet & Greets from June 27 to July 1. kawanashoppingworld.com.au

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JUNE 22, 9.30AM & 12PM The Events Centre, Caloundra Join professors Lexi Con and Noel Edge for a thrilling voyage through the alphabet— where great big chewy sesquipedalian words inspire mind-blowing scientific surprises.

It is a performance that’s equal parts explosive, messy, spectacular, hilarious, fascinating and gross. theeventscentre.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

* 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.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

JUNE 27 - JULY 9 | Noosa Civic, Noosaville Meet you at the green, because Noosa Civic ready to par-tee. Grab a club, collect your ball, and have a tee-riffic time these school holidays!

Putt your way through six holes, challenged by fruity objects, interesting obstacles and fun props. It’s the best fun you’ll have these holidays with plenty of fun photo opportunities throughout! Gold coin donation to Wishlist. noosacivic.com.au

WHAT’S ON WINTER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS AND THEIR GROWN UPS VISIT KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU FOR MORE EVENTS!

IMAGINATE

JUNE 25 - JULY 10 Noosa Regional Gallery Imaginate 2022 is a two-week interactive art exhibition and festival produced by Slow Art Collective. Featuring art workshops and free family events, children of all ages are invited to discover, play and create their own experience through art these school holidays at Noosa Regional Gallery! noosaregionalgallery.com.au

STORY SEAT ADVENTURES

JUNE 25 - JULY 10 | Gympie Rain, hail or shine take the kids on a fun and memorable journey, just 35 minutes from Noosa at the Mary Valley Rattler in Gympie.

It’s an experience that is both educational and enjoyable!

Plus, kids receive a take home toy and FREE ice cream in Rusty Rails Cafe with every paying adult. Don’t miss Steam Man who will also be around for all of the action at the Station over the school holidays! maryvalleyrattler.com.au

COOROY MOUNTAIN SPRING FESTIVAL

AUGUST 21 Cooroy Mountain Cooroy Mountain Spring Festival is the once-a-year opportunity to climb Cooroy Mountain.

Entertainment, food and community stalls and a unique rainforest walk with observation trail make this an event for everyone! All net proceeds to good causes with Sunshine Butterflies, a local disability support group as the main beneficiary. cooroyrotary.org.au

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SHOW HOLIDAY SPECIAL

THROUGHOUT AUGUST Paradise Resort, Surfers Paradise Every day’s a show holiday at Paradise Resort! Keep the kids entertained this August with daily activities and entertainment, ice-skating, laser tag, virtual reality, kids club and more.

Stay three nights from $399 per family. T&Cs apply. paradiseresort.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

* 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.

MARY VALLEY RATTLER SCHOOL HOLIDAY SPECIAL

JUNE 7, Nelson Park, Alexandra Headland JUNE 29, Muller Park, Bli Bli Join Sunshine Coast Libraries as they go adventuring around the Sunshine Coast hosting events at their Story Seats throughout the year! There will be games, story time and lots and lots of fun.

Bring a hat, morning tea, lots of friends and a blanket to sit on. library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

PRESENTING PARTNER

8+9+10 july 2022 NAMBOUR SHOWGROUNDS SUNSHINE COAST More than 360 exhibitors including 55 nurseries 60,000 plants for sale daily PROUDLY ORGANISED BY

OUR PARTNERS

Free talks and workshops all day, every day Food, entertainment and free kids playground

www.qldgardenexpo.com.au

THINGS TO DO

QUEENSLAND GARDEN EXPO 2 0 2 2 The Queensland Garden Expo returns to Nambour this July, with a barrow-full of gardening fun for the kids!

A

s Queensland’s premier gardening event, the Queensland Garden Expo is a ‘must see’ in 2022 for green thumbs and novice gardeners alike. The 37th annual Queensland Garden Expo will provide 7 hectares of gardening inspiration when the three-day event returns to the Nambour Showgrounds on the Sunshine Coast from July 8 - 10. Some of Australia’s leading gardening experts will take part in three days of lectures, demonstrations, and workshops.

ACTIVITIES FOR THE W H O L E FA M I LY Whether you’re an avid gardener, or simply wondering how to get your pot plants blooming, the Queensland Garden Expo has something for everyone.

The Cook’s Garden Stage is located on the Eastern side of the Oval, opposite the Poinciana Stage. This is the place to head if you want some great tips on growing your own produce and how to turn it into delicious gourmet meals. You will also find lots of great information about using plant based remedies for common ailments, organic gardening and more!

Interested in making your garden more productive? The Giant Kitchen Garden is always a hive of activity with loads of information to help you get started. Here you will find a host of permaculture and organic gardening experts on hand to answer all your questions.

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JUST FOR THE KIDS Don’t worry, the Queensland Garden Expo is not all about the talks and workshops!

There are bucket-loads of fab activities for the youngest gardeners—providing the perfect opportunity for little ones to test out their green thumbs, get their hands dirty and have some fun in the garden!

Throughout the weekend you will find kids craft, seed planting and the free (yes, FREE!) kids playground with giant slide, jumping pillow and merry-go-round.

Down in the Kitchen Garden, Bli Bli State School will have craft and gardening activities. And Scotts are running workshops all weekend, including an indoor plants growing workshop and a succulent growing workshop.

Want to make a weekend of it? Check out the many drive and stay ideas on the Qld Garden Expo website: qldgardenexpo. com.au/family-self-drive-getaway.

INFO WHEN July 8 - 10 2022 WHERE Nambour Showgrounds, Sunshine Coast COST Adult: $20 Children 15 yrs and under: Free Groups of 10 or more: $18 3-Day Pass: $50 2-Day Weekend Pass: $35 NOTE: Tickets are available online and at the gate

KIDS AGES 15 A N D UNDER ARE FREE!

MORE INFO QLDGARDENEXPO.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

LOCAL NEWS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE NEWS: KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU

FLINDERS

PRINCIPAL HONOURED

M

AS LIFE MEMBER OF THE ASRU

atthew Flinders Anglican College Principal Mr Stuart Meade has been honoured as a Life Member of the Australian Schools Rugby Union (ASRU) by its President Mr Kevin Culliver OAM. “This has been an incredible journey of more than three decades of selfless dedication to the development of our youth through rugby union; a volunteer career of which we are indebted to him,” Mr Culliver says.

“Mr Meade has proven beyond question he is worthy of such an honour.”

Life Membership is the highest honour an organisation can bestow upon its members.

Mr Meade accepted the Life Member commemorative certificate and says, “I take great pride in and enormous satisfaction from my contribution to the ASRU over the years.

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“I hope I have assisted the development of school rugby in some way. It has been a privilege to have been a part of it all,” he says.

Mr Meade joins an esteemed group of 23 Life Members recognised for their long-term and dedicated contribution to the ASRU, including Br Bob Wallace AM, Mr Jim Lucey OAM and Mr Leslie (John) Howard OAM. The volunteer organisation has grown over more than 50 years and is run by members of the teaching profession and supporters who conduct events, representative teams and international tours in the belief that rugby union has a unique ethos and benefits that contribute to the broader education of young people.

A large majority of Wallabies and Super Rugby players are products of Australian Schools Union programs. mfac.edu.au

An explosion of colour at

THE GINGER FACTORY

T

he iconic Ginger Factory on the Sunshine Coast has been transformed into a joyous explosion of colour. Local artist Sophy Blake has created an incredible rainbow umbrella installation high above the factory’s rainforest gardens.

Aptly named the Rainbrella Project, almost 1,000 rainbow umbrellas are suspended above the lush rainforest. The rainbow path stretches for 200 metres of vivid colour, which took Ms Blake more than 100 hours to create.

Ginger Factory tourism manager, Brenda Bailey, says the installation aims to bring joy and happiness to those who journey down its colourful path.

“It goes without saying that the last two years have been difficult time for our world,” Ms Bailey says.

Sophy Blake says the artwork explores themes of new beginnings and hope.

“Historically rainbows

are known as a symbol of hope; a symbol that despite the darkness, storms or tribulations of life, can appear, evoking a feeling of peace,” Ms Blake says. “With each colour signifying an expression of hope, rainbows bring the promise that the troubles of today will come to pass.”

A network of interconnected steel structures designed to last suspends the installation above the rainforest. It is a permanent display at the Ginger Factory.

The stunning display has guests craning their heads skywards. It’s also protecting visitors from the unusually wet weather across south-east Queensland recently.

Take the whole family on a day trip or just visit by yourself for an injection of bright happiness into your day. The Ginger Factory is open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm. For more information, visit the website. gingerfactory.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

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

LINKKI MINI Linkki Mini from Planet Finska is a compact version of the classic strategy game ‘four in a row’.

Crafted from beautiful linden plywood, Linkki Mini has a clear varnish finish and will provide hours of fun for young and old. Suitable for ages five and older and up. Designed in Australia. $82.95 // biome.com.au

KIDS BEACH BUCKET SET Winter is the perfect season to explore the beach, and this gorgeous eco-friendly beach bucket set is all you need for your next sandy adventure. Made from non-toxic 100 per cent food grade silicone, the set is super flexible and durable, and sure to last a lifetime. Set includes one bucket, one spade and four moulds. $49.95 // moobaba.com.au

INSULATED MINI FOOD JAR SASHA THE SHEEP PLANTER This beautifully handmade planter is sure to add a touch of uniqueness to your baby’s room.

These pieces of art are created with sustainable coco coir and each unique item is handcrafted in a fair trade environment by community-based artisans in the Philippines who use intricate traditional techniques.

Also available as a blue whale and a bear. $77 // stylebub.com.au

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This pint-sized foodie jar is made from high grade, durable double-walled stainless steel, helping to keep foods at the perfect temperature during the day. So, wherever you are, when little tummies rumble, you’re ready.

The easy fill, leak-proof design helps keep food warm for up to four hours or cool for up to six hours. Great for little and big kids alike, the 210ml capacity is the ultimate in bite-sized style. $22.95 // coastalkidswear.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

MESS CATCHER SILICONE BIBS Ready to make mealtime a bit more fun? Available in a range of cute designs, these mess catcher bibs are guaranteed to make you smile, even when things get a bit messy. Made from food grade silicone and free from all the nasties, they are dishwasher safe too! $25.95 // thesomewhereco.com

WOODEN LACING SNEAKER This sturdy wooden lacing sneaker is perfect for kids to learn how to lace and tie. Perfectly sized for little hands, it makes practicing fun and helps little ones reach those developmental milestones.

Suitable for ages three years and older. $19.95 // steamkids.com.au

GEOMAG GLITTER SET

BOOTYSUIT JELLY WASH This super-gentle, wobbly, jelly body wash from Allkinds makes shower time fun! Soap-free and made without SLS and SLES, it is dermatologically tested, pH balanced, and non drying. Available in a range of natural fragrances, the fun wobbly shape lasts for multiple washes. Made in Australia, just for kids and teens! $14.99 // allkinds.com

Yay, finally a onesie that will fit over cloth nappies! Designed with reusables in mind, Bootysuits are generously sized with additional booty space to accommodate cloth night nappies.

Made from buttery-soft bamboo and featuring a two-way zip for easy nappy changing, these are the softest onesies on the market. Also featuring fold-over hands and feet covers for extra cosiness. $36.95 // monarchstore.com.au

Geomag has released a super-stylish Glitter range of their popular magnetic construction toy. The new Geomag Glitter Panels Recycled sets have plenty of pieces to join forces with a friend and create together, and they are fully compatible with the full Geomag range.

Each set is for ages three and older and is made from 100 per cent recycled plastic meaning shiny playtimes can also be green! Available from all good toy stores.

From $22 // geomagworld.com

ABLE CAUSE CHARITY TEES Launched by south-east Queensland dad Sam Hall, these gorgeous t-shirts are part of a growing range of tees and accessories designed to raise funds and awareness for Cerebral Palsy, and to neutralise the stigma of children’s disabilities. With super-cute designs and a very awesome cause, it’s a win-win! $29.95 // ablecause.com 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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E D U C AT I O N

Brightwater State School Established in January 2012, Brightwater State School was built to cater for the strong growth in the Kawana, Brightwater and Mountain Creek communities. Opening with a total enrolment of just 240 students, it is now a thriving learning community of well over 900 students from Prep to Year 6. But what is the story behind this progressive school?

IT STARTED WITH A PRINCIPAL AND A VISION Current Principal Robyn Taplin was the founding principal back in 2012.

She worked collaboratively with the school community to create vision for the school.

From uniform colours and the school name to specialist learning programs and future-proofed facilities, the team worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life.

Understanding the seriousness of raising the community’s future citizens, the team created three moral pillars that went on to underpin daily life at Brightwater State School. They are: ‘Everybody Belongs’, ‘Just be Kind’ and ‘Pay it Forward’.

While the student enrolment has grown and the modern facilities have continued to evolve, what hasn’t changed from the school’s inception is the ongoing focus on teaching children to be kind and caring human beings.

“As a school of high standards we strive

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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0 1 s n r tu to ensure that our students are taught to use manners, care and compassion on a daily basis,” says Mrs Taplin.

One of the school’s values, known as ‘Big Rocks’, is: ‘Happy students, happy staff’.

“Staff believe that if we create a school environment that children love and feel nurtured in, they will want to be here every day. With a vibrant and supportive environment, students love their teachers and their learning,” says Mrs Taplin.

“Students bouncing out of their cars in the morning because they are excited about the day ahead is what we aim to see.”

The school is a digitally rich environment with Information Communication Technologies (ICT) used purposefully throughout the learning process to achieve curriculum intent.

“Our classrooms and facilities offer contemporary learning environments enriched by the latest in technology to enhance learning and provide a portal to the world beyond the four walls of a classroom,” Mrs Taplin says.

All learning spaces throughout the school are enabled through wireless connectivity and resourced with interactive whiteboards, laptop pods, 21ST CENTURY LEARNING desktop computers, i-Touch devices, Driven to deliver high quality 21st Century digital cameras, Lego robotics and learning experiences to all students at the digital microscopes. school, Brightwater State School delivers Brightwater State School also utilises personalised learning, catering to student a number of online learning platforms preferred learning styles. Teachers then to support curriculum delivery and select appropriate teaching strategies based a personalised learning approach. on pretests, student data and student With these foundations in place, the learning goals. school has experienced lots “With this model, students of success over the past 10 have the opportunity to I AM INCREDIBLY years, with student results demonstrate and receive for academics, sports and PROUD OF feedback on their learning,” the arts being strong. Staff THE STRONG says Mrs Taplin. have also been awarded “This approach also enables REPUTATION THE recognition for excellence SCHOOL HAS teachers to embed higher in teaching and leading and order thinking skills and cothe reputation of the school operative learning strategies is amongst the best the into lessons.”

Sunshine Coast has to offer.

Specialised programs to support “I am incredibly proud of the strong students with learning difficulties or reputation the school has across the extend students with gifts and talents are Sunshine Coast,” says Mrs Taplin. devised and implemented by experienced “The best resource in the school is teachers ensuring that students are the staff who have high expectations challenged and achieving to their potential. of themselves and each other to ensure

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E D U C AT I O N

every student has learning success.” program has seen the establishment “They are passionate educators who of a drum corps who are now well sought emulate our motto of a ‘bright beginning after to lead local Anzac day marches. to lifelong learning’, by viewing every child “Students are very keen to be a part of as an individual and being driven to ensure the drum corps who can be seen practicing they graduate from Brightwater with skills, their routines throughout the school each knowledge and attitude that will set them week. They also love the many lunchtime up for success at high school and beyond,” clubs available to them should they wish Mrs Taplin adds. to join such as the Garden Warriors, dance “Each year I attend the student awards club and robotic club.” night at Mountain Creek Initiatives such as the SHS and take great delight in ‘Brightwater Buddies’ also witnessing continued success add to the ‘whole child’ for past Brightwater students philosophy, where students AS AN who receive recognition at INDEPENDENT participate in a rigorous the event. When we see past training program prior to PUBLIC students going on to have becoming an official buddy SCHOOL, success with their lives, we ensure that students are OUR SCHOOL leading and coaching take comfort in knowing we COMMUNITY played a part in that.” their peers in actions that PLAYS AN develop social consciousness ACTIVE ROLE EDUCATING THE as well as a supportive and WHOLE CHILD caring school environment IN SETTING A well-rounded primary OUR STRATEGIC for everyone. education goes far beyond “Brightwater Buddies AGENDA. a strong curriculum. Therefore, are a daily part of the educating the ‘whole child’ is playground, with students at the forefront of Brightwater donning fluorescent vests State School’s pedagogy. and clipboards and busily putting their Brightwater has many well-established skills into action by connecting students extra-curricular programs including with new friends, assisting with problem sports coaching, extension programs solving and organising games.” in the arts (dance, visual arts) and lots “This peer mentoring initiative has of digital technology and robotics to been highly successful in assisting keep contemporary learners engaged children to successfully navigate the and motivated. playground and one of the programs The school’s well developed music I am most proud of,” says Mrs Taplin.

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INDEPENDENCE RECOGNITION With such proven success, Brightwater State School is one of only 250 schools in Queensland to have been granted Independent Public School status.

According to Education Queensland ‘an Independent Public School is a public school that has demonstrated its capacity to use its increased flexibilities and responsibilities to make local decisions across a range of school operations to enhance education outcomes for students’.

This autonomy allows Brightwater State School to have more control over what happens at the school, with decision making in the hands of the school community.

“Our school community is passionate about ensuring every child experiences success with their learning, and we are committed to providing high quality services in all that we do,” says Mrs Taplin.

“As an Independent Public School our school community plays an active role in establishing and setting our strategic agenda to ensure that our students are offered the very best education possible.

“We encourage all members of our school community; students, staff and parents to play an active role in the daily education of our students and contribute to creating a school environment that is happy, safe and conducive to learning.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BRIGHTWATER STATE SCHOOL? Mrs Taplin believes that the future is bright for the children and families who enrol at this flourishing school.

“Now that COVID restrictions have eased, parents are back in the school and loving it!” Mrs Taplin says.

“Favourite programs such as Super Dads, Reading Dogs and Celebration Assembly are back in full swing and the 2022 P&C Association has begun planning discussions for a playground extension project. I can’t wait to see what the next 10 years have in store!”

BRIGHTWATERSS.EQ.EDU.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

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A R T S & C U LT U R E

HORIZON FESTIVAL Horizon Festival returns to the Sunshine Coast this August, with a spectacular line-up of arts-fuelled fun for kids and families.

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The magnificent Spiegeltent

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2022

elivering an exciting range of contemporary cultural programs including music, visual art, theatre and creative workshops, Horizon Festival is a wonderful way to engage and inspire kids in The Arts.

The 2022 program has a HUGE offering for kids this year. Whether it’s free workshops for Mums and Bubs or dancing your socks off to your favourite rhymes, there’s something that will spark creativity and wonder for every member of the family.

For the first time, The Wonderland Spiegeltent will be presented at Cotton Tree with a full program of theatre, music, kids programs and workshops. As the 2022 festival hub, the Spiegeltent will be home to a huge range of exciting performances and shows across the 10 days.

Sing along to your favourite rhymes (fan alert, there is something HUGE in store for the younger ones in that genre!), laugh uncontrollably at sketch comedy just for kids, enjoy an Aria-award-winning vocalist, be amazed by circus tricks, or get stuck into an all-ages dance battle. The Spiegeltent will be bursting with fun and activity for kids and their grown ups.

The gardens of Cotton Tree Park will also come alive throughout the 10-day festival.

Enjoy live DJs in the gardens, visual art installations, story time under the trees and much more.

FREE WORKSHOPS Just for the kids, the Spiegeltent will host an exciting line-up of free daily drop-in

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Credit: Angel Leggas

THE WONDERLAND SPIEGELTENT

workshops. Curated by a range of wellknown artists from across the Sunshine Coast, these workshops will run from 9am to 12pm every day. Engage in a variety of activities including a storytelling workshop

by Dr Aunty Hope O’Chin, nature-based building, clay making, collage making or music making. Check the program as soon as it is released for something that tempts you!

HOMEGROWN ARTISTS A large part of Horizon Festival is a genre aptly titled Homegrown. Each year, Horizon Festival, supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), celebrates the outstanding local talent of the Sunshine Coast by featuring a selection of established Sunshine Coast-based artists.

For the kids is Guyu and friend Mr Pelican.

Written and illustrated by Dr Hope O’Chin (Aunty Hope), Guyu and friend Mr Pelican is a children’s book that tells the Dreamtime story of a boy called Guyu and his friend, Mr Pelican.

As part of Horizon Festival 2022 school students will participate in a reading with Aunty Hope, under the trees at Cotton Tree. The reading will be accompanied by a workshop and activity booklet exploring Kabi-Kabi language.

For those unable to attend the workshop, copies of the book and a digital recording will be available at the festival hub.

DID SOMEONE SAY VISUAL ART? There is a visual art feast this August at Horizon 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

Credit: Samantha Laine Smith

Engage in a variety of activities including storytelling, nature-based building, claymaking, collage making and music making.

PERFORMANCES Showcasing an impressive line-up of local and national artists, those who enjoy live performances will be spoilt for choice.

Whether its aquatic shenanigans at King's Beach, immersive theatre in Coolum, or mysterious inflatable people wandering en-masse among the community, there's 10 days of art-fuelled fun in store.

If you prefer live music, Horizon Festival 2022 has that covered too. Contemporary sounds, moving performances and the

Scan here for first access to program and tickets.

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

ancestral energy of First Nations performers will be popping up across the Sunshine Coast in the most picturesque of locations.

FOR THE DADS As Father’s Day is on the last weekend of the festival, there will be a bunch of fun activities for dads to enjoy with the kids on Father’s Day. See the program for details on that, when it’s launched on June 16!

PLAN YOUR VISIT Performances are purposely spread throughout the day, particularly on weekends, so families can choose to make a day of it (or several days!)—moving from workshop to performance.

Many activities book out quickly, so we’d suggest choosing the ones you want as soon as the program is released and grabbing your tickets as soon as you can. Many of the free activities will still require a ticket.

You can register for first access to tickets at horizonfestival.com.au

INFO

Credit: Wildlings Forest School

Augmented reality and animation will bring the Sunshine Coast's flora and fauna to life. Kids and families can connect with country and Mother Earth through an inspiring selection of art celebrating the stories of Kabi Kabi people.

Family friendly events are not isolated to Cotton Tree! Once again, Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens will have an exciting sound-based experience that is sure to inspire the whole family.

FULL FESTIVAL PROGRAM LAUNCHES JUNE 16

WHEN: August 26 - September 4 2022 WHERE: Cotton Tree Park + other pop-up sites across the Sunshine Coast MORE INFO: HORIZONFESTIVAL.COM.AU W I N T E R 2022

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Behind the doors at the Coast’s NEW Montessori ELC With a new Montessori early learning centre opening in Peregian Springs in October, we chat with Kerrin Thomas, General Manager at Habitat Early Learning, to find out more about the Montessori Approach for little learners.

WHY DO YOU THINK THE MONTESSORI APPROACH IS IDEAL FOR EARLY LEARNING? Within educational circles, there is a widespread recognition of the need to differentiate learning to best cater for a multitude of learning styles. The Montessori Approach caters perfectly to individual differences. In an era marked by hurried lifestyles, providing adequate time to thoughtfully and intentionally teach a child about basic routines, self-care and fundamental concepts that are building blocks for future learning, and then allow that children to consider, learn and develop at their own pace, is optimal. Observing the work cycle in a Montessori classroom is a must for anyone making a decision regarding their child’s early childhood education.

TELL US ABOUT THE NEW CENTRE! parent room, complete with breastfeeding Habitat Early Learning Peregian Springs area, and a dedicated yoga studio, we hope is the third of our services, but our first to nurture a collective culture where care for Montessori-exclusive offering. Over time, one’s self is prioritised amid the busy reality our commitment to the benefits of the of family life.

Montessori method has become very strong, There are five stunning learning and the idea of Montessori early education environments, four of which operate as has been warmly received by the coastal quite traditional Montessori classrooms community. Like all of our services, our and incorporate the Montessori principle Peregian Springs centre pays homage to of multi-age, family grouping. The the surrounding ‘habitat’ and, as such, the Montessori-inspired kindergarten on the architecture of the building and landscape upper level steps slightly away from a is inspired by all the elements and beauty of traditional Montessori method, in that it the area. is a homogenous grouping of The centre has been designed children who will attend school in with the health and wellbeing the following year. The program of children and families in The centre has incorporates all other elements mind. In providing very special been designed of the Montessori approach, features such as our tranquil however.

with the health and wellbeing of children and families in mind

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE KIDS WILL LOVE MOST? We know that the children will enjoy being part of a Montessori community— a place where respect for self, others and the environment abounds. We know that their curiosity and interest will be ignited through rich learning opportunities not only within the work cycle, but also as part of the extra-curricular programs that they are invited to partake in. The children will enjoy the outdoor learning environment and the opportunity to care for plants and grow edible produce.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT WITH THE OPENING? We are really excited to meet the children and parents who will be our foundation families. Over the next few months we will be hosting parent events, family barbecues and playgroups to ensure community connections and friendships are cultivated well before our first day!

FAMILIES CAN REGISTER THEIR INTEREST OR FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE SERVICE, INCLUDING THE DAILY FEE STRUCTURE AND INCLUSIONS BY VISITING HABITATLEARNING.QLD.EDU.AU 24

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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

E D U C AT I O N

MOVING MOMENTS

with vertical learning We visit Immanuel Lutheran College where intergenerational connections are helping the community to flourish.

T

he reciprocal benefits of intergenerational connections have been well-proven. But combine busy lives with the recent COVID restrictions and opportunities for vertical learning have become increasingly rare.

With multiple generations in its Buderim community, Immanuel Lutheran College was perfectly placed to introduce a program that could connect its youngest with its oldest, in a beautiful learning program called Moving Moments.

“The Moving Moments program is an intergenerational learning program that started in the Early Learning Centre,” says Jodie Hayat, Head of Primary at Immanuel Lutheran College.

As part of the program, elderly residents from Immanuel Gardens, the aged care facility directly beside the College, visit the

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Immanuel Early Learning Centre to work with the Kindy children.

“At scheduled times, residents come over and provide support in our literacy groups and some of our early numeracy groups.

They sometimes do art with us too!”

The Moving Moments program was so successful that Immanuel extended it to include Prep, and this year it has extended the program further to now include Year 1.

“We are embedding this into our whole early learning program now, and it’s something we aim to build on further in the coming years,” Mrs Hayat says.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF VERTICAL LEARNING?

Vertical, or intergenerational learning comes with many benefits for all involved.

“For the children, there’s that rich history; the sharing of stories and bringing things to life,” Mrs Hayat says.

“For example, when you talk about something like Anzac Day, and you have a resident who is sitting there with medals or her husband’s medals and talking about what war was like, it is a very impactful way to share stories with the younger generations,” Mrs Hayat continues.

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contributors to the College community by helping our younger students to feel safe and comfortable; and to also let them know that they will always have a friend who’s there to listen,” Mrs Thompson says.

“By providing vertical experiences for the senior students, we are also affording them an opportunity to develop a more multifaceted way of thinking, and a type of leadership mindset to assist them navigate their post-schooling pathways. Vertical experiences encourage a nurturing approach by our senior students toward their younger peers, and a space in which they can inspire through action and empathy—be it as mentors, tutors, student leaders, event organisers or helpers.”

“What a beautiful older person can teach and House spirit. to a younger person is quite extraordinary.

“All vertical initiatives inspire discussion, Particularly through these COVID times encourage leadership and aim to build where many families were disconnected connections between our junior secondary across the world. To have older residents and senior secondary cohorts,” Mrs who are able to feed into the lives of our Thompson says. young people is something really special.”

Yet, the simplest ideas are often the And the Moving Moments program is most successful, and their Car Park Heroes hugely enriching for the older generation program is the perfect example. too.

Car Park Heroes was “The residents from a student idea that Immanuel Gardens commenced in 2015.

What a beautiful absolutely love it!” exclaims Originally titled ‘Car Park older person can Mrs Hayat.

Angels’, it gradually evolved “One resident said to me, teach to a younger from a simple initiative to ‘This makes my heart so aid the traffic flow in the person is quite happy; it gives me a purpose mornings, to a much-loved extraordinary to my week’, which is such connection between Primary a lovely thing to hear.” and Secondary School students.

A WHOLE SCHOOL APPROACH “Our Car Park Heroes are a group of Year Connecting the generations isn’t confined 10 - 12 students who volunteer their time to to the early learners at Immanuel. This escort our younger Primary students (Prep progressive college has adopted a vertical to Year 1) to the under-covered meeting learning approach that benefits the entire area upon arrival at school each morning. learning community.

They serve our College community each day “Vertical learning in the Secondary School between 8am and 8.20am by alleviating is experienced in many ways,” Immanuel the pressure for parents in having to find Lutheran College’s Deputy Head of a car park, speeding up the school drop-off Secondary School, Amy Thompson, says. process for busy parents, creating positive “In our worships, assemblies, service bonds between the sub-schools, and learning groups [Interact and Eco Club], developing independence in our Primary the Student Representative Council, various students,” explains Mrs Thompson. co-curricular groups and House meetings.”

“Our ‘big’ kids love being mentors to our House meetings at Immanuel, coupled little kids, and at the end of the day, they with combined House events, see the Year LOVE dressing up in superhero costumes too!

7-12 students and staff come together “As this is a student-driven initiative, they regularly as a group to facilitate comradeship enjoy the opportunity to be independent 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

LET’S NOT FORGET OUR FURRY FRIENDS!

If we are looking for connections that span an entire community, Immanuel Lutheran College’s therapy dog Connie is certainly a cornerstone.

“Connie works from our ELC through to Year 12; she is incredible,” Jodie Hayat says.

“She provides emotional support; she will listen to children read in small reading groups; she was here this morning doing an enrolment interview with me! But she will also be there for our Year 12s prior to them going in for an exam. Connie is a huge part of our community, across all ages.

“The last couple of years have been incredibly challenging for everyone. But initiatives such as Moving Moments, Buddies and Car Park Heroes help to unite everyone once more. It does take a village to raise a child, and we are proud to say we are that village.” immanuel.qld.edu.au

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GET THE MOST OUT OF

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Heading to an open day? We give you some tips on cutting through each school’s highlight reel and get a true sense of whether the school is right for your family.

A

s the name suggests, an Open Day is when you can meet with the principal and ask questions. It’s when teachers get to showcase their classrooms. It’s where senior students act as guides. As a prospective family, you get to go ‘behind the scenes’.

They can be incredible valuable in that they provide you and your child with an idea of what the school looks and feels like. You can gather information on what is available to you and your child academically, athletically and more.

School Open Days can be exciting.

But let’s face it, they can also be daunting for parents new to this ‘choosing a school’ thing. It’s important to do a bit of preparation before you attend.

First, think about what’s most important to you when choosing a school for your child. Is it academic achievement, is it behaviour management, is it the overall feel of the school, is it the teachers, is it the facilities and resources? It might be a combination of all these things.

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COME ARMED WITH QUESTIONS

Write down all the things you hope your potential school can deliver. Use these things as a starting point for any essential questions you need answered.

Every school will provide you with a handbook covering the essentials of school life, which gives you a good overview of the school and its approach. However, you may have more questions about the school’s teaching philosophy, approach to discipline and what life is like outside the classroom for its students.

LOOK AROUND YOU

Another way to gauge whether the school is right for your family is to have a look around. Do the students appear happy? Do the teachers seem approachable and friendly? Can you picture yourself and your family here?

Sometimes these observations can carry the most weight, and even if your questions have been answered well if any of these things don’t seem right then it may not be the school for you.

TALK TO OTHER FAMILIES

Chat to other families with children at some of the schools you’re considering. They can give you insider knowledge and share what they like best about the school. However, always come back to your first list of what’s most important to you as this can vary from family to family. Make sure you’re choosing based on your own needs and values and not what is talked about as a ‘good school’.

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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E D U C AT I O N

Artist’s impression

A new Primary precinct

FOR GRAMMAR

Sunshine Coast Grammar School has laid the foundations for a new Primary precinct, with Stage One, the Early Years, due to open later this year.

We visit this groundbreaking school to find out more.

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n the fortunate position of being able to design and build a new Primary precinct, teachers were given the opportunity to re imagine their teaching and learning environment. The early years precinct now well in construction is something sure to inspire this and many future generations.

“We are creating a place where curiosity and collaboration come together,” Sunshine Coast Grammar School’s Head of Primary, Paul Clegg, says.

“We believe that behind teachers and families, physical spaces hold the potential to influence what and how children learn.”

Collective discussions between the architects and Grammar staff, enabled teacher voice with intent and purpose.

Liaising with a sensory landscape team, the Grammar staff could share their deep understanding of how children think, question and explore. The idea to create an outdoor inquiry journey with fluid, interconnected spaces, providing a place conducive to learning was unanimous.

“We are incredibly excited and fortunate to have been a part of designing and having input into the building of our new purpose-

built early years precinct,” Prep teacher Geraldine Frohloff says.

WHAT IS IN THE NEW PRIMARY PRECINCT?

The new Early Years precinct explores relationships of space, light and shape within its modern architecture.

Its curved structure can be likened to an eye wide open and taking in the world around it. It’s a very fitting metaphor, as the School sees its wide-eyed learners enter their journey in this aesthetic precinct in which every aspect has been carefully considered through the lens of a child.

The classrooms reflect new ideas and trends boasting teaching walls, high ceilings, reading nooks and purpose-built storage.

Located on the second floor, the classrooms extend and merge into an enclosed gallery that offers a hybrid of outside/inside learning. The area also includes naturally styled carpet alcoves for small group learning, and a purpose-built low island bench perched in front of a teaching kitchen for inquiry into cooking, experimenting and science, all cleverly hidden behind a teacher access door.

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KEEPING IT GREEN

Unique to Grammar is its natural tranquil, green environment. It is this serene sense of calm that you feel the moment you step onto the school’s 100-acre grounds.

The cool ground floor space will support a new outdoor spaces and playground. We broad range of activities including learning, look forward to maximising children’s perceptual motor program and play. The opportunities to learn in our natural and large undercroft will allow students to serene rainforest environment,” Prep escape the elements and adds to the sensory teacher, Rebecca Wells, says. landscaped playground.

“We live and learn in an amazing tropical EVEN THE AUDIO HAS BEEN part of the world that has seen an increase CONSIDERED in wet weather patterns with predictions If that’s not enough, the Prep building of more to come. We wanted to ensure we will also boast four of the new soundfield could continue to provide our systems for the classrooms. youngest learners with the These handcrafted wooden highly-desired opportunities speakers, also used on An aesthetic for physical movement, gross super yachts, will provide motor skill development and precinct in which exceptional clarity in the play, regardless of the weather voice from any every aspect has teacher’s conditions,” says Rachelle location in the room. been carefully Brutnell, Dean of Primary Prep “This sound system is considered to Year 3. second to none and ensures The extensive playground through the lens students can access clear is rich with built-in learning auditory instructions from the of a child. opportunities that will allow teacher,” Mr Clegg says. teachers to interact with “Prep students are in an age learners as they explore. group prone to ear infections.

“I believe the children will be very excited This sound system can assist to reduce to see the new classrooms. However, I the impact on hearing if students exhibit know they will be thrilled to explore the reduced hearing.”

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However, when a Prep student expressed their disappointment that the trees were being removed because of the motorway upgrade, the teachers listened. The Prep cohort took action, working together with the groundskeeping team to plant more than 2,000 trees alongside the school grounds in a corner children will be able to see as they enter their Secondary School years.

“Students couldn’t imagine a world without green and neither could we.

Students have voice and we listen. We value nurturing the future generations who value the world around them,” says Mr Clegg.

The Prep Precinct is part of a bigger masterplan for the Primary School.

The same collaborative process will be undertaken with the Primary school staff as they plan for the roll out of Stage 2 and 3 of the Primary Primary precinct to further enhance the learning experience of our students.

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H E A LT H

LIVING WITH

LACTOSE

As a naturopath I often see people who tell me they are lactose intolerant, only to heal their gut, choose good foods and they are good to go again! So for the love of dairy, let’s get educated!

OK. LET’S START AT THE BEGINNING. WHAT IS L ACTOSE INTOLERANCE? Lactose intolerance is an enzyme deficiency.

People who are lactose intolerant lack the lactase enzyme that is needed to break down lactose (milk sugar) into simple sugars for digestion. Without the lactase, the undigested lactose makes its way into the large intestines causing digestive upset.

There are many possible causes for lactose intolerance: Some people just naturally lack the enzyme, this can be from birth or develop as they get older. This is when dairy specific digestive enzymes containing protease and tilactase are your best friend!

Damage to the intestinal lining which is responsible for producing lactase in the gut.

Dysbiosis: certain bacteria produce lactase that helps breakdown and absorb lactose.

If your gut doesn’t have these species (lactobacillius & bifidobacteria) or you have too many bad ones over powering the good guys you may struggle digesting dairy.

Dairy allergies are different altogether and are common in around five percent of young children with symptoms such as itchy skin, hives, rashes, diarrhoea, stomach pains. If someone has an actual dairy allergy, they have an allergy to the protein and staying away from dairy completely is best.

DID YOU KNOW? Many people with a dairy intolerance react to A1 casein. This is commonly present in our high-producing cows for dairy farming in Australia. Milk that is exclusively A2 has been shown not to produce the inflammatory response of A1. So milk from jersey cows as well as goats are traditionally A2, so worth trying for those struggling with commercial dairy.

NOT ALLERGIC BUT WANT TO EAT DAIRY? 1. Cut out all dairy products for one week.

2. Take notice of any changes to digestion, skin or sinuses.

3. Heal your gut. Eat fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kombucha, kimchi, yoghurt.

4. Take a digestive enzyme, gut healing powder and a probiotic (ask your health care professional for specific strains).

5. Reintroduce with good forms. Greek yoghurt, A2 milk, cheese and butter are easier to digest so start with these. Make sure when choosing your products you read the label and avoid colours, flavours and additives as these are often a cause of digestive symptoms as well.

6. Minimise. Dairy products can be pretty hard to digest, so keeping dairy as a minor part of the diet is a good idea.

TRY THIS

Switch to dairy-free milks (like coconut milk) in cooking/baking Try water, coconut water, or dairy-free milk in smoothies Have dairy-free milk or yoghurt for breakfast Switching your flat white to an almond milk one Remember—dark chocolate has less dairy than milk chocolate!

If you have done all this and find that dairy still causes digestive symptoms, don’t despair. Indulging in that chocolate for special occasions or holidays like Easter and Christmas can still be done with a dairy specific digestive enzyme formula containing tilactase and protease. Taken when you are about to consume dairy (or after if you have forgotten), this will give your body the enzymes it needs to break it down, causing you less symptoms. Winner!

B Y A L I S S A M A C K , N AT U R O PAT H AT G U TA I D | G U TA I D.C O M . A U

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TUTORING

Build confidence with tutoring

Is your child lacking confidence in the classroom? We chat with dad Tom Rouse about how tutoring put the fun back into learning for his little one.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO LOOK FOR A TUTOR FOR YOUR DAUGHTER?

My daughter Sophia struggled with the jump from Prep to Year 1, and it really knocked her confidence. She had always been a happy kid, but in Year One she became anxious about going to school. It wasn’t the work as such, it was the pressure she put on herself to always get things right. So, the main reason we looked for tutoring wasn’t to improve her maths and English, it was to get her confidence back and help her enjoy learning.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE NUMBERWORKS’NWORDS SIPPY DOWNS?

Sophia likes human contact, so we thought in-person tuition would work best for her.

We found that at NumberWorks’nWords, she can not only speak to someone face-to-face, but they really understand. What appealed to me about their program is how they tailor it and set it to a level where she can really understand and build on her confidence.

Yet, what really impressed me was the environment that they create, which I don't think you could get online. It's a really positive, reinforcing session. Sophia saw that from the first time she went in— people were clapping and congratulating each other. You could see on her face that she liked it, and I think that was also what sold me on enrolling her at NumberWorks’nWords Sippy Downs.

Also, I cannot speak highly enough of Rochelle, who runs NumberWorks’nWords Sippy Downs. You can see that she really

cares, that she wants to help the kids. She is just brimming with absolute positivity for teaching children.

WHAT DOES SOPHIA ENJOY MOST ABOUT THE TUTORING SESSIONS?

Sophia enjoys the positive environment and that there is no pressure. The kids are all enjoying their learning without the pressure of ‘I have to get this right’. The tutors are amazing too—how well they support her and how they talk to her.

WHAT CHANGES HAS THIS MADE TO SOPHIA?

Seeing her so unhappy at school was really upsetting, so to see her happy again was really the biggest thing. I can see her enjoying it, and that it has brought her confidence up. Now, she is able to ask her teacher questions, and she knows that getting it wrong is fine, you just have to keep trying. We saw a 180-degree flip in her after the first term, so we didn’t hesitate in booking her in Term Two. It’s been over a year now and she just came out with a big smile, so we’ll certainly keep going!

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE NUMBERWORKS’NWORDS PROGRAM, CONTACT ROCHELLE CALL ARD: 07 5445 4412 // sippydowns@numberworks.com 36

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E A R LY L E A R N I N G

No ordinary CHILDCARE We chat with Pam Maclean, local early childhood education expert and operator of Out & About Care & Education, about the little things that make a big difference when creating a high-quality centre.

What drew you to creating such an incredible early learning centre in the old Daily building in Maroochydore?

I saw that building and it was just so obviously perfect. It provides so many elements that are ideal for little people.

It is tranquil, large and spacious. It is also lovely and green, relaxing and charming, and very soothing for young children and their families. Plus, it is so convenient for the many families who work in the area.

What are you most proud of at Out and About Maroochydore, now that it’s open?

The team is fabulous—full of experience and knowledge. They are all such caring and nurturing people who are really knowledgeable and experienced. The setting itself is just so beautiful, with big generous spaces both indoor and out. We set such high standards too—we always have in our centres. We don’t cut corners and even if something costs more, we still do it. It’s not just about making the day easier. It’s about doing what is right and what creates quality outcomes for children.

What difference can this experience make to the children?

We end up with very smart little people!

Prep schools often tell us that they can pick the children that are from our centres in the group. They are just so ready to learn.

They’ve been well prepared and they are confident to take on new challenges in their next education setting.

What we do is focus on the things that give them the right elements they need: confidence, self-belief, and resilience to support successful learning. The ability to have a go, maybe get it wrong the first time, but hop up again and have another go. All those things are so important for when they launch into formal learning.

You work hard on every detail whenever you create a new centre. Why do these little things matter to you?

It’s not just about being compliant, we set far higher standards than basic compliance.

It’s the many other little things that build quality. It’s taking the time to ensure the right educators and carers are in the right rooms—it’s not any person to fill the space, it’s the right person.

We provide really beautiful, fresh meals and produce—it is always the best we can source. It is important that children’s brains are receiving the best nutrients and nourishment.

Due to all these little things, we have much more settled children, which means more enjoyable days for them.

When children are relaxed and enjoying themselves, they learn better. Children achieve better outcomes educationally and socially.

Out and About Care & Education operator, Pam Maclean has a long history of high quality care and education provision in the early childhood world. Pam was Director of a centre named in the Prime Minister’s top three businesses in its category in Australia—the first childcare centre to be so recognised.

Out and About Maroochydore is open now. Visit outandabout.net.au for more information and enrolments.

O U T & A B O U T C A R E & E D U C AT I O N | O U TA N D A B O U T.N E T. A U | 07 5 413 809 9

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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

Music by RICHARD RODGERS Lyrics by OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II Book by HOWARD LINDSAY and RUSSEL CROUSE

J Noosa The J Noosa The The Events 2nd July 2nd July 2022 Centre2022 Caloundra 2pm & 7pm 2pm 3rd& July 2022, 4pm 7pm (07) 5329 6560 thej.com.au

(07) 5491 4240 (07) 5329 6560 theeventscentre.com.au www.thej.com.au

Suggested by “The Trapp Family Singers” by Maria Augusta Trapp | Adaptation by Suggested by “The Trapp Family Singers” by Maria Augusta Trapp | Adaptation by TOM TOM BRIGGS TIMOTHY ALLEN McDONALD | Orchestrations Robert Russell BRIGGS and and TIMOTHY ALLEN McDONALD | Orchestrations

by Robert by Russell Bennett Bennett Musical by Preparation John Higgins Adaptation and supportbymaterials Musical Preparation John Higginsby| Adaptation and |support materials developed iTheatrics under the under supervision of Timothy Allen McDonaldAllen McDonald developed by iTheatrics the supervision of Timothy THE SOUND OF MUSIC: Youth Edition is presented through special arrangement with THE SOUND OF MUSIC: Youth Edition is presented through special arrangement with ORiGiN™ Theatrical on behalf of R & H Theatricals, A Concord Theatricals Company.

ORiGiN™ Theatrical on behalf of R & H Theatricals, A Concord Theatricals Company

tafeqld.edu.au/it RTO 0275 CRICOS 03020E

E D U C AT I O N Every aspect has been carefully planned to create a calm and modern environment.

The new

Nirimba State Primary School is OPEN!

If you could design a school from the ground up, what would you create?

This was the task set for the team at Nirimba State Primary School several months ago. And now it’s open, the results are truly impressive.

D

esigned to educate the kids of the future, this 21st century school has considered every detail to ensure it meets its motto of ‘Embracing opportunities of today, inspiring futures of tomorrow’.

THE FUTURE STARTS WITH A WELL-ROUNDED EDUCATION

Principal Steven Moore knows that, if students are to discover their own unique talents and become the best version of themselves, they need access to a broad range of learning opportunities and experiences.

“When preparing kids for the jobs of the future, you have to consider global competencies,” says Mr Moore.

“Therefore we encourage our students to think globally but act locally through curriculum and multi-pedagogical approaches. Japanese is also taught from Prep to support the acquisition of language from an early age.

“We have a large sustainability precinct that will develop into a community garden in the future,” Mr Moore says.

“Students can grow and, will eventually

sell produce, learn where their food comes from, and enrich their learning in biological sciences.”

A LEARNING ENVIRONMENT The school also has a very strong focus TO LOVE on the Arts, ensuring students engage in The classrooms and shared spaces all five strands: music, dance, drama, media designed for Caloundra’s newest little and visual arts throughout the year. learners are as calm as they are inviting.

“We have an excellent music program, “A lot of the fabric and furniture and we will be partnering with a visual components that we’ve chosen for the artist in the future, who will be offering school environment haven’t been used after school activities for students in before in Queensland schools,” says the art space.”

Mr Moore. “We’ve used a lot of neutral Understanding the relevance of the tones in the fabrics and the textures, Arts in future skills, Nirimba with light timbers and colour State Primary School has taken coordinated furnishings." the typical STEM program one Everything has been Embracing step further to include this meticulously thought out opportunities of to create a calm, earthy, yet extra creativity component.

“Our STEAM (Science, today, inspiring modern environment.

“We wanted to create Technology, Engineering, futures of a unique learning environment Arts, Maths) approach provides tomorrow. for our students so that they students with opportunities could be inspired to learn and to apply knowledge and skills have fun.” to unfamiliar problems in creative ways.”

“Thanks goes to Principal Robyn Taplin Health and physical education is also at Brightwater State School and Principal a core part of the curriculum.

Barry Dittman, at the new Palmview State “We’ve so far partnered with Elite Tennis High School, who were both very supportive International and Brazilian Soccer Skills to in setting up the school. “Happy 10th bring those extracurricular opportunities to birthday to Brightwater State School,” the school. We also have a dance company, Mr Moore adds.

Dance Energy, that operates out of the “Also a very special thank you to all school, and we are constantly looking for foundation staff, leadership team, business more sports partnership opportunities with manager and P&C committee for their local individuals and organisations!” support, ideas and contributions.”

100 PARK AVENUE, NIRIMBA | NIRIMBASS.EQ.EDU.AU | 07 5413 7777 40

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the importance of learning It helps to encourage your child to form their own opinions, gives them knowledge and allows them to formulate questions.

During their younger formative years, a child’s brain grows and learns rapidly, so it’s vital to be there, to listen and offer advice or explanations when asked.

Remind them to take one step at a time.

kids do better when parents engage with them.

however, none of us has the answers all the time...

So, if you need help or support for any reason, Parentline is here for you seven days a week by phone or via WebChat. It’s free, non-judgmental and confidential counselling.

Call us for a chat on 1300 30 1300 or WebChat with us via parentline.com.au

PA R E N T I N G

CHOOSING A NEW SCHOOL AT ANY TIME

is a big deal

Be it Prep, Year 7 or relocating to a new area, at some point you will need to make the tough decision of choosing a school for your kids.

I

t’s a daunting decision and one that may friendships reasons are very valid ones. underpin many other big decisions in What are your child’s strengths and your family’s world. So, what should your interests? What would match their focus be when choosing a school? personality?

It is wise to sit down and think about what If you are completely overwhelmed, here is a priority when deciding upon schools are some things you can do: and education. It could be the religious Sit down as a family and have a denomination, or it could be conversation using the the location. You may need above questions. The goal is the school to be close by to to understand the order of The most important importance; what does your where you live so you can walk to school. For some thing is that this school family value? The more we parents, having access to feels like a good fit for know about what factors outside school care is a huge of most value, the better your child and family. are determining factor in where equipped we will be from That you feel trust in the start. they send their children.

Some schools are well Do some research. the school. known for their sporting Look online for logistical achievements and have information about the access to athletic resources schools, size, location, that other schools do not. Some schools outside hours of care, and their curriculum. have strong STEM streams. Some schools Try joining Facebook groups associated may require more investment financially. with the local area or the school and ask the What are the differences between the people who know best—other parents. teaching philosophies at the schools on Contact the schools directly and ask if your shortlist? you can book a visit or look for open days/ What about your children’s wishes— orientations. Avoid doing this during school where do they want to go? What are their holidays, instead visit during the hustle and reasons for choosing that school? Social and bustle and get a true sense of the school.

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Take advantage and speak directly to the students showing you around. How does the school make you feel? How does it make your child feel? Because what might be suitable for one parent will make another run for the hills. Why does this school give you a good feeling? Is it because it feels controlled, or do you like that there seems to be more freedom for the students?

The most important thing is that this school feels like a good fit for your child and family. That you feel trust in the school. Your family will spend a lot of time here and with the teaching professionals. You want to feel welcome, supported and heard.

BY KIMBERLEY HARPER, PARENTLINE MANAGER If you want someone to talk through these decisions and be a soundboard for you, then contact the team at Parentline. Available seven days a week with FREE, non-judgmental, and confidential counselling support.

Call 1300 30 1300 or WebChat via PARENTLINE.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

A GLASSER QUALITY SCHOOL

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NOW FOR PREP 2023

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WEDNESDAY 22 JUNE @ 9.30AM & 12PM TICKETS $18 | AGES 5YRS+ The Events Centre, Caloundra

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ptp@sunshinebeachss.eq.edu.au (07) 5474 6333 • www.sunshinebeachss.eq.edu.au

THINGS TO DO

, It s time for a story adventure Sunshine Coast Libraries’ fabulous Story Seats have had a facelift, inviting families once again to explore the magic of storytelling across the region’s parks.

W

e chat to Philip Bunting, award-winning children’s author and illustrator who features on one of the seats, to find out more about the revitalised Story Seat trail.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO TAKE PART IN THE STORY SEAT PROGRAM? I’m a huge fan and advocate of libraries in general, but when Sunshine Coast Libraries asked me to help create a Story Seat, I jumped at the chance to help them reinvigorate this incredible initiative. In addition, I have three children (ages four, seven and nine) and I know first-hand how they’ve engaged with and enjoyed the Story Seats all around the Coast, so being asked to help create a Story Seat was a real honour.

TELL US ABOUT THE ONE-OFF ILLUSTRATION THAT YOU CREATED FOR THE STORY SEATS I chose the location of the Story Seat (Kenilworth Town Park) with one idea in mind... to feature the lifecycle of the Mary River Turtle. These curious creatures— most famous for their green punk-rock mohawks (caused by a build-up of algae)— are endangered and endemic to the Mary River. They’ve had a bit of a rough trot over the years, due to their popularity as pets between the 1970s to ‘90s. But thanks to local conservation efforts, their population has become more stable. My illustration describes the lifecycle of the Mary River Turtle, from egg to algae-‘haired’ adult. I hope the whole thing causes a few young minds to ask questions, and become curious about their weedy-wigged neighbours.

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WHY DO YOU FEEL IT’S IMPORTANT FOR LITTLE ONES TO DEVELOP A LOVE FOR READING SO EARLY IN LIFE? To read is to learn. Whether that be fiction, non-fiction, picture books, or anything in between. If you’re reading, you’re learning. Positive interaction and experience with reading at a young age points children towards a path that can lead to a life-long love of learning.

HOW DO YOU FEEL THE STORY SEATS HELP WITH CHILDREN’S LITERACY? All of the Story Seats encourage dialogic interaction between children and their adults through literal and inferred questions.

Whether they are reading the questions or reading the illustrations, children will find heaps of ways to interpret the Seats, which are deliberately designed to help spark conversations and new ideas. I always think of libraries as Serendipity Engines—the same can be said for our Story Seats.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE STORYTHEMED GAME TO PL AY WITH THE KIDS AT YOUR STORY SEAT? We’ve played Count the Crustaceans, Name the Turtle, Frighten the Fishy, but our kids have most enjoyed hearing facts about the Mary River Turtle. Examples include: • Th eir hair is a build-up of algae, which grows on their heads and shells over their lifetime.

• Th ey can breathe out of their butts (aka. their cloaca)!

• Th ey have a really long tail (very unusual for a turtle).

Where to find the story seats Wild about Books

By Katherine Batters Power Memorial Park, Mudjimba Love Animals

By Bronwyn Bancroft Pioneer Park, Landsborough Turtles All the Way Down

By Philip Bunting Kenilworth Town Park, Kenilworth Tiddalik the Frog

By Gregg Dreise Nelson Park, Alexandra Headland

Guyu’s Friend Mr Pelican

By Hope O’Chin Muller Park, Bli Bli Bring a Book

By Caroline Magerl Shelly Beach Park, Shelly Beach Pirate Cove

By Dave Hackett Maroochy Lions Park, Maroochydore Beneath the Sea, You and Me

By Sue deGennaro Brightwater Community Lake Park Fun in the Park

By Peter Carnavas Russell Family Park, Montville Veggie Garden

By Christine Sharp Grahame Stewart Park, Currimundi

Jump online to find out more about the Story Seats or visit your local Sunshine Coast Library to pickup a printed map. library.sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au/Visit/Story-Seats And don’t forget to use #Storyseat on your travels!

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

E A R LY L E A R N I N G

Raising kids that care for

COUNTRY For thousands of years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have sustainably lived with the land.

Whether your family has been in Australia for five years, five decades or across multiple generations, what unites us all is that we are all standing on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Land.

H

ow the Traditional Owners and learn,” says Ms Kolinac. continue to value and care “It’s important to embed indigenous for Country represents a very perspectives in early learning to create important part of our shared an anti-bias, anti-racist and inclusive history, and Emeliah Kolinac, Innovations curriculum. It’s about celebrating culture, Manager at Sanctuary Early Learning historical acceptance, race relations and Adventure, believes that raising kids that reconciliation.” respect that tradition must begin with our Ms Kolinac explains there are many ways littlest ones. to embed these experiences “By building awareness in a play-based way that of the impact humans have connects with preschoolers. on the environment from “Create a bush tucker Use childrens’ an early age, children all garden for children to look interests as a vehicle after native plants. At our learn how to play a role in positively living with, rather for learning and to child care centres, these than imposing on, the Land,” create culturally plants are used in play and says Ms Kolinac. cooking experiences. Also, inclusive play spaces create community links By appropriately drawing on local Aboriginal and with local catchment care Torres Strait Islander groups and environmental perspectives, this holistic organisations. This can early learning centre embeds the create meaningful excursions and exciting importance of caring for Country firstworkshops for the children.” hand, in culturally appropriate and “Invite Aboriginal Elders to visit the meaningful ways. centre to share cultural experiences and “It’s a cornerstone of our curriculum traditions with children. Not only will this that our children respectfully learn about enhance their learning and understanding, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander it will also develop an awareness of the perspectives, philosophies and practices historical and cultural significance of the about caring for Country, as well as land on which the early learning centre physically demonstrating respect for the stands.” skies, waterways, and land on which we live Another practice that Sanctuary Early

Learning Adventure has introduced is guiding little ones to regularly reflect on what ‘home’ or ‘place’ means, and why it is important to connect with and care for Country.

“Alongside this reflection, they develop an understanding of the concept of ‘Country’ according to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives,” Ms Kolinac explains.

“We have also published Reconciliation Action Plans as well as a Sustainability Action Plan that both adapt and grow with children, family, educator and the wider community’s input.”

Ms Kolinac believes that embedding indigenous culture in the classroom requires a multifaceted approach.

“Use childrens’ interests as a vehicle for learning and to create culturally inclusive play spaces, and incorporate culture across multiple play spaces instead of creating cultural corners.”

“Embedding the understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of living and thinking every day provides a deeper connection to the world around us.

It balances perspectives and brings forward the sustainable way of living and learning.”

Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure is located at 140 Jones Rd, Buderim.

VISIT SANC TUARYLE ARNING .COM . AU FOR MORE INFORM ATION OR CALL 1300 00 PL AY 46

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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

CAREER

Gabrielle helps

P

EDUCATE FUTURE GENERATIONS

roud Kamilaroi woman Gabrielle O’Keeffe is embrace the opportunity to learn, Gabrielle jumped doing everything in her power to help children at the chance when the opportunity arose for her to achieve their full potential, with JobTrainer become an education officer for Indigenous teenagers. funding enabling the former youth worker to Looking to enhance her skills, Gabrielle enrolled develop the skills she needs to transition her passion to study a Certificate III in Education Support online to the education sector. through TAFE Queensland under JobTrainer funding, Gabrielle grew up on Bundalung Country (Northern which aims to assist eligible job seekers and school Rivers) in New South Wales and after finishing high leavers in entering high priority skills areas by enabling school in 2013, completed a Certificate them to complete selected qualifications III in Early Childhood Education and for free or low cost. And while Gabrielle Care, followed by a Certificate IV is not set to graduate until later in in Community Services. It’s a path 2022, the 26-year-old has used her new Being a part of that initially led her to the Northern skills to transition even further into the Territory, where she supported young children and young education sector, now working full time Indigenous teenagers as a residential people’s educational supporting the next generation to create youth worker in the remote Aboriginal a strong foundation for learning as a journey is a privilege teacher’s aide for prep students at an community of Wadeye.

“I felt drawn to explore Indigenous Anglican primary school. culture beyond my local area.

“I enjoy playing an influential role Living and working within a remote to students who are in their first year Aboriginal community was an invaluable experience,” at school. It’s a time in their lives where you can really Ms O’Keeffe said. impact a child’s experience and their attitude towards Keen for a change in scenery, Gabrielle moved to school and education,” she says.

Cairns in early 2020, where she continued to work as a “Being a part of children and young people’s residential youth worker with teenage girls from remote educational journey is a privilege and something I’ve Cape York and Groote Eylandt who were required to live always felt passionate about being involved in—I away from home in order to access secondary education. would highly recommend this rewarding, fulfilling and Having worked closely with the girls and seen them enjoyable career avenue.”

To find out more about how TAFE Queensland can help you kick-start your career in education support, visit tafeqld.edu.au or call 1300 308 233, and let TAFE Queensland help you define your greatness.

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Become a part of our

SANCTUARY FAMILY

EAR

A R N IN G A DV ENTU LY L E RE

Buderim

Our commitment to every child and their family is to provide the highest quality educational programs and exciting environments to explore and play, leaving each with a lifelong foundation for continual learning.

5

Practical ways

TO IMPROVE YOUR CHILD’S PENCIL GRIP

By Calista Bruschi

P

encil grip is just one element of handwriting. By the time your child reaches preschool or Prep, they have developed a pencil grip that is most comfortable for them. However, handwriting is dependent on how a child holds their pencil and if they aren't holding it in a proper way it can affect their academic growth in school.

A child's pencil grip can be an issue if their writing cannot be easily read, if they are unable to write at reasonable speed, or if they complain about their hands being sore or tired when writing. A poor grip can be more easily corrected in a child's early education.

You can help your child with their grip by showing them the correct finger and thumb positioning. Over time they will learn how to correctly and consistently hold the grip if they practise for a few minutes each day. Fun and interesting activities like writing and drawing can also help your child’s pencil grip.

What’s an acceptable pencil grip Parents and carers should encourage their children to grasp a pencil in a way that allows the child’s hand and fingers to move freely and easily when writing or drawing. Generally, the guidelines for a good pencil grip include: • holding the pencil in a stable position between the thumb, index and middle fingers • having the ring and little fingers bent and resting comfortably on the table • allowing the index and thumb to form an open space • having the wrist bent back slightly, with the forearm resting on the table • holding the pencil no more than 2cm from the tip.

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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

WRITING

Fun activities to develop pencil grip Providing your child with a range of pencils, felt pens, crayons and chalk, and using an array of coloured and different sized paper and cardboard can help develop your child's pencil grip. Dot-to-dot books, stencils and tracing, card making, using a magnetic drawing board, building with blocks and even playing noughts and crosses are other easy ways.

Pencil grip can also be improved with fine motor play. You can use simple household items to help your child develop their grip.

We've found five practical (and fun!) things you can do with your child.

1.

USE EL ASTIC/ RUBBER BANDS

Start by placing the band around the pencil.

Then twist the band and form a hole. Place the child’s writing hand through the hole to where the band is wrapped around their wrist and the pencil.

Voila, the band becomes a writing aid and promotes good pencil grip! A second method is to get your child doing finger gymnastics. Get two bands of the same size and wrap them around your child’s thumb, index finger and middle finger. Add extra bands so that it becomes increasingly difficult for your child to move their finger. This exercise helps muscle development.

2.

USE BEADS

Beads are great for developing hand-eye coordination in children, but they’re also a good way of encouraging an open web space.

Children must hold the bead and string between their thumb and index fingers. When a child has a weakness, the thumb web space will collapse. By using different sized beads and threads, you are making the activity challenging, and because beading is repetitive it promotes strength.

When to seek further help

3.

USE TISSUE PAPER

Using tissue paper in art projects is an excellent way to develop your child’s hand strength. If your child complains of sore or tired hands when they write or colour, they are lacking strength in their hands. Get your child to crumble bits of tissue paper using just their finger tips. Go further and as them to tear the bits of paper before they crumble it into a ball. These activities are perfect for strengthening the hands smaller muscles.

4.

5.

The most efficient way to hold a pencil when writing is the tripod grip (outlined on p50).

However, children new to pencils or crayons can have a range of different and unusual grips. If your child is holding their pencil in a way that doesn’t give them much control then they need to do some lacing activities. Lacing cards are great, but if you don’t have them, get your child to thread the laces of your shoes. To be successful at lacing, children must hold the string in a tripod grip in order to push it through the holes.

Painting, drawing, colouring or writing on an elevated surface can assist children who need to develop their extended wrist.

This is where the wrist is slightly bent back, which promotes better movement and flow of the fingers when forming letters. You could also get your child to peel stickers and place them on a piece of paper (kids love stickers), which not only helps the wrist but promotes hand-eye coordination.

GET L ACING

Pencil grip activities are fun ways of helping your child develop their skills.

Most children develop their pencil grip skills between the ages of three and six.

If you have concerns about your child’s pencil grip, you should seek further help from your GP or an occupational therapist.

SET UP AN EASEL AND GET PAINTING

This article is of a general nature and FYI only. It is not personalised health or education advice and should not be relied upon as though it is. Before making a health-related or educationrelated decision, you should determine if the information is appropriate for your situation and get professional advice.

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ACTIVITIES

ENGAGE STUDENTS’

IMAGINATIONS WITH A GAME THEY’LL LOVE

Looking for the ultimate educational activity that the kids will love? We chat with Nicole Lander from Laser Tag in a Box to find out why her Brisbane-based business is saving the sanity of educators everywhere.

S

chools, vacation care and OSHC (Out of Hours School Care) are always searching for education yet stimulating activities for the kids to enjoy. And Nicole Lander has created what she believes to be the ultimate solution for families and educators alike.

Turning a game of tag into a social and strategic learning activity, Laser Tag in a Box is a truly unique group activity for kids.

“Laser tag is a low-risk, fun, stimulating activity!” says Nicole Lander, founder and owner of Laser Tag in a Box. “Children practise cooperation and collaboration as part of a team, as well as working on their problem solving skills.”

What's great about Laser Tag in a Box is that students don't have to go off-site for the experience.

“There is no need to go to a laser tag arena or a family entertainment centre,” Ms Lander says. “There is no need for a bus, it is delivered straight to you.”

Nicole explains that Laser Tag in a Box is

suitable for all primary school-aged children, including those in Prep. It's also perfect for outside school hours care or vacation care programs.

“We have different models for different age groups,” Ms Lander says.

Even children with additional needs enjoy the games.

“We can alter the level of stimulation on the taggers, the kids are playing in a familiar environment with people they know and they can go at their own pace,” she says.

Debbie Fox coordinates the OSHC program for Catholic Early EdCare Algester.

She says Laser Tag in a Box was easy to organise.

“The children had an absolute ball,” Ms Fox says.

According to Ms Lander, that sort of feedback is common.

“The laser games can be played outdoors or indoors all day, which makes us great value for money,” she says.

“I often hear about how engaged the kids are when they are playing and about how much fun they are having.”

HOW DOES IT WORK?

“Every package includes a ‘Quick Start’ guide with step-by-step instructions,” Ms Lander says. “All the equipment is preset, so all educators need to do is turn on each unit and start blasting.”

There is a variety of game play options: Capture the Flag, Battle Royal, Team

Elimination and Capture and Hold games.

“Best of all, you don't just have a couple of hours with our laser tag equipment,” Ms Lander says. “When you hire with us, you get the laser tag gear for a whole 24 hours!

I've heard about children playing games from dawn until dusk, it's that popular.”

The laser tag equipment works both indoors and outdoors, and is deliverable around Australia.

“A lot of education facilities like that it gets delivered to the door and their staff can run the games,” Ms Lander says. “It means other people aren't coming to the campus, which can be reassuring from a child safety perspective.”

Nicole Lander says she's proud to have an Australian-owned and operated business kids love.

“We believe kids who have happy memories in childhood grow up to be happier adults.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT LASER TAG IN A BOX ON 1800 266 587 OR VISIT LASERTAG.COM.AU 52

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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

Music by RICHARD RODGERS Lyrics by OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II Book by HOWARD LINDSAY and RUSSEL CROUSE

The Sound of Music Youth Edition

The J is alive these Winter holidays when Sunshine Coast Youth TheatreThe presents J Noosa the Youth edition of the all-time 2nd July 2022 classic, The Sound of Music!

2pm & 7pm

Caring for women through all stages of their life

Disney's The Little Mermaid Jr.

In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home and her fins behind and live in the world above.

(07) 5329 6560

2 Julywww.thej.com.au 2022

8 & 9 July 2022

2pm & 7pm 2:30pm & 6:30pm Suggested $35.00 by “The TrappAdult Family Singers” by Maria Augusta Trapp | Adaptation by TOM $35.00 Adult BRIGGS and TIMOTHY ALLEN McDONALD | Orchestrations by Robert Russell Bennett Musical Preparation by John Higgins | Adaptation and support materials developed by iTheatrics $25.00under Pensioner $30.00 Concession the supervision of Timothy Allen McDonald THE SOUND MUSIC:2-15yrs Youth Edition is presented through special arrangement with $25 OF Child (Pensioner; Senior; Student ORiGiN™ Theatrical on behalf of R & H Theatricals, A Concord Theatricals Company & Child 2 -15 years )

Providing services at Buderim Private Hospital, Buderim (07) 5329 6560

thej.com.au

Suite 18, Building B, Nucleus Medical Suites, 23 Elsa Wilson Drive, Buderim, 4556 Phone 5444 4433 info@drkylieisaacs.com.au • www.drkylieisaacs.com.au

Your child deserves…. A bright beginning to lifelong learning

We offer:

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A nurturing and safe school community that values high standards Personalised learning that responds to individual needs Contemporary resources to support active learning A wide array of extra-curricular programs allowing children to shine Modern school facilities with expansive grounds

20 Dianella Drive, Mountain Creek 4557 | Phone: 5438 3111 | admin@brightwaterss.eq.edu.au

LOCAL LIFE

Moo Baba OPEN FOR BUSINESS Oh. My. Lordy! We have found the most GORGEOUS kids shop on the Coast!

I

f there was ever a shop telling you to have another baby, Moo Baba is the one. We chat with Wendy Puelma to find out the story behind the adorable.

KOTC : BEFORE WE START, I HAVE TO ASK… WHERE DID THE NAME MOO BABA COME FROM?

Wendy: Ah, it’s my twist on the way kids say Mooloolaba! I love the way little ones speak, so the name perfectly reflects what we are all about and where we are.

KOTC: SO, WHAT LED YOU TO OPENING MOO BABA?

Wendy: I worked for many many years in recruitment. And my husband and I also run See Restaurant at Mooloolaba Wharf. When COVID first hit, we were forced to close our restaurant for three months. During that time I did a lot of soul searching, it was a big reality check for me because I knew I didn’t want to do recruitment anymore. My babies have all grown up, I was in quite a senior role, and I didn't need the stress. So, I was there thinking ‘Well, what can I do?’

I’d always adored good quality baby clothes when my babies were young, and when I found out there was a retail space coming available at Mooloolaba Wharf, it was perfect location—and the idea just all came together.

KOTC: YOU WERE VERY BRAVE, OPENING A BRICKS AND MORTAR STORE DURING COVID! HOW DID YOU GO?

Wendy: Yes! We opened in December 2020. And, you know, it’s actually been really good!

It was nice to be not so hectic at the beginning, because it was a very steep learning curve for me—as I got to know suppliers, buying agents and retail cycles.

But now it's gaining momentum, I know what I need to do, and it's come together really well.

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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

Now I’m a regular for local mums, and I’ll chat with them to see what they are looking for. I feel like the store is an ingrained part of the Mooloolaba community.

Although the world shifted online due to necessity during the pandemic, I feel that it also sparked a desire to shop local and to belong to the local community. More than ever, people want to come in to a store and feel the fabric, know the quality and chat about their purchase.

KOTC: WHAT IS IT ABOUT MOOLOOL ABA WHARF THAT MADE YOU SO CERTAIN THAT’S WHERE YOU WANTED MOO BABA TO BE?

colour and patterns and quality. I want kids to be kids, and I think clothes should last, so I hand-pick everything to ensure quality and Wendy: Oh, it's just got such a good comfort. I've had a lot of time to do research, community feeling down here, there’s a so I've sourced most things as Australianwonderful vibe. There's owned, I wanted to make heaps of energy—with sure that everything has a the restaurants and other local touch on it.

Although the world retailers, and everyone I also stock toys, books, gets along. I wouldn't do it hats, dummies, bibs, shifted online due anywhere else. plushies, Jellycats, wooden to necessity during We've seen some major toys, swimwear and a select COVID, it also sparked range of shoes. changes here at The a desire to shop local Wharf, and the owners are I’ve focused on the zero to constantly trying to grow and to belong to the sevens age group. I just love and improve the area, so it’s that age range of clothes and local community. a community that works well toys, and I love chatting to together. I get a lot of people the mums and little ones saying that they see the store that come in. Also, I find when they were at The Wharf for dinner and that once you get into the tween years, the had to come back when we were open. So kids start to choose their own clothes, so you that really helps. And obviously with SEA are catering for a different customer.

LIFE here, that helps as well.

KOTC: YOUR RANGE IS AS CUTE AND FUN AS IT IS CL ASSIC. TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU CHOOSE YOUR STOCK?

Wendy: I wanted the range to be about

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

KOTC: DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE IN YOUR RANGE?

Wendy: I love the newborn stuff. The baby stuff is so cute. Minihaha is one of my brands, and also Bébé and Fox & Finch. They all have such gorgeous lines and are all really

good quality, and just so sweet. Oh, and Billy Loves Audrey makes the cutest little funky socks and tutus—I adore those too!

I stock Little Renegade bucket hats as well, which are also gorgeous.

And I love everything from Albetta—their plushies are all made from recycled plastic bottles. Their cotton is a gorgeous organic cotton. It's just beautiful.

KOTC: AND YOU HAVE AN ONLINE STORE TOO!

Wendy: Yes, getting the shop open was the main focus for me. So I see the online store as an organic extension of the shop front. We get a lot of tourist traffic through The Wharf and now they have seen that we stock such quality products, they continue to buy from me online when they get home. I feel that people have become more skeptical of online shopping, because you spend money and are often disappointed with what’s delivered. But if you are shopping online from a store you have visited and trust, you know you will be happy with what arrives.

MOOBABA .COM . AU W I N T E R 2022

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P L AY

Slow down with guided sensory play

Sensory playgroup

BUILDING A COMMUNITY

W

hen Tash Den Elzen had her daughter in the midst of the first COVID outbreak, she had no idea how challenging the early days of motherhood would be.

“I found it really hard to connect with other new mums; those newborn months were incredibly isolating, plus I didn’t have any extended family for support.” says Tash.

Tash started connecting with mums online and then, once her daughter was four months old, the lockdown was lifted and they started to meet up in the park.

“And then, when my daughter was seven and a half months old, I fell pregnant again!”

It’s a story that’s all too common—both in COVID times, and before. New mums are increasingly separated from their village, and the shift to motherhood can be an incredibly isolating time.

In the hope of providing safe space for mums and bubs to find a community, Tash created a nature-based sensory playgroup.

“After spending those newborn days stuck at home all day, I really wanted to create a community where mums can get out of the house and connect.

“I am hoping to bring the village back to

new parents, as it really does take a village to raise a child.”

Beginning with meet ups with friends in the park, her sensory play sessions proved so popular, they now have a permanent home in the Baringa Community Centre.

Tash worked closely with two play therapists to design the sensory play sessions, resulting in a series of gentle stations—each with a different sensory experience.

“All products are homemade, edible and natural,” Tash explains. “The water station is dried citrus in water, and the paint is made from natural powders.”

“We have these really beautiful treasure tubes filled with various natural items such as bay leaves, citrus, fruit, cinnamon, gum nuts. So the kids can open them, mix, explore, crunch and smell.”

A favourite with the kids is a homemade jelly consisting of gelatin and bone broth.

“They love to throw it around and squish it up. And then we’ve got our ice station, with edible flowers and ice. We also create a slime from chia seeds in water.”

Gaia Sensory Play is at Baringa Community Centre weekly. Bookings are required.

M O R E I N F O AT I G : @ N AT U R E S E N S O R Y P L AY

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There is a range of natural items to crunch, smell, mix and explore 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

ENROLFORNOW 2022 & 2023

PRE-KINDY & KINDY SHORT OR LONG DAY OPTIONS STARTING AT 3 YEARS OLD

Early Learning Centre Opening Hours 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Ph: 07 5436 6777 | 7 Gregson Place, Caloundra QLD Email: enrolments@calcc.qld.edu.au | www.calcc.qld.edu.au

COME ALONG TO OUR TOTS OF FUN PLAYGROUP!

For parents and children (up to pre-school age). 9:00 am every Tuesday during term time.

KAWANA

T R AV E L

THE ULTIMATE

FAMILY STAYCATION A FUN-FILLED FAMILY-FRIENDLY PARADISE JUST MINUTES FROM HOME? YES PLEASE!

W

e are all in need of a little R&R right now. But with COVID still raging and the soaring cost of living, getting away is sadly not on the cards for most families.

Luckily, living in south-east Queensland means we are in the perfect location for a sneaky staycation. And just 15 minutes from Maroochydore yet also a world away from the daily struggles, the refurbished Novotel Resort Sunshine Coast is the perfect spot.

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

WHAT HAS BEEN REFURBISHED AT NOVOTEL RESORT SO FAR? The extensive renovation includes updated guest rooms and overwater bungalows, reinvigorated recreation spaces including a refreshed resort pool precinct and lagoon beachfront plus a new Pilates Studio.

Novotel has also introduced two new, elevated accommodation categories—Deluxe Overwater Bungalows and Grand Overwater Bungalows.

Novotel’s new 1.5-bedroom Deluxe Overwater Bungalows are ideal for couples and small families.

The master bedroom features a luxurious king-sized bed and private ensuite, complete with an indulgent sculptural soaker bathtub.

Accommodating up to three adults, or two adults and one child, Deluxe Overwater Bungalows offer the option to have an additional single bed (on request). Other features include a large lounge room overlooking the lagoon, and convenient kitchenette facilities.

Feeling grand? The Grand Overwater Bungalow is the resort’s only three-bedroom accommodation option. With ample space for the entire family, this one-of-a-kind bungalow features three king bedrooms and two full bathrooms, with an additional Queen sofa bed on hand for larger groups.

Inspired by Novotel’s breezy tropical surrounds, the space also boasts two outdoor patios offering tranquil views across the lagoon. Inside, the open plan living includes a large dining area that seats up to eight people comfortably, while a kitchenette affords extra freedom.

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T R AV E L

The refurbished overwater bungalows are ideal for families.

In the main resort area, Novotel has also introduced a new Executive Room type.

Comprised of re-imagined resort rooms, the new Executive rooms are located on the eastern side of the resort. The regular rooms have been updated with the same coastal theme and modern décor.

SOUNDS GORGEOUS, BUT WHAT’S THERE FOR THE KIDS? Thankfully there is stacks to keeps the bambinos happy! The newly refurbished pool area is perfect for all ages. There are plenty of super-comfy loungers around the pool, and the resort provides several floating bean bags for the kids to play on. There is a large shallow stepped area that is perfect for little ones, and there is plenty of deeper water for the older ones to swim and splash.

Beach towels are provided, so there’s no need to worry about packing those. Just grab them from the kiosk by the pool.

Novotel has a full schedule of kids activities each day. Whether a treasure hunt, beach flags, fish feeding, a game of cricket, or sandcastle building competition, there’s something for everyone.

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If you prefer water sports, there are plenty of activities to try out at your leisure. Sail a mini catamaran, borrow kayaks and paddle around the lake (they have a double kayak so any littler ones can jump in with an adult), and go stand-up paddle boarding. Or if you prefer two wheels, you can hire bikes from the activity centre.

There is also a pool table, two ping-pong tables, and a gaming room with air hockey, racing games, basketball and more. There is even a putt putt course on the front lawn.

AND THE DINING? All dining at Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort is managed through the SOLA Bar & Restaurant, making it straightforward to navigate and really easy to stay COVID safe.

Scan the QR code to view the menu, then order everything you want from the counter.

You can choose to eat as takeaway, or grab a table and they will bring your food out to you.

The menu is extensive, with pizzas, pasta, fish, burgers, salads and poke bowls. There is a reasonable kids menu too of nuggets, pizza, pasta and fish. The buffet breakfast is impressive too, with everything you could

want to fill up the family for a busy morning of fun with pancakes, hot food, fruit, cereal and pastries.

Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort also has a store/cafe open in the mornings that sells snacks, coffee and smoothies.

WHY WE ALL NEED A STAYCATION With the world now adjusting to this strange new normal, staying local is the way most families choose to live nowadays. And there’s many reasons the staycation is a winner for families. There’s no long road trip to contend with. There’s no stressful packing session, then spending the next three hours panicking that you forgot to pack teddy. In less than 30 minutes you can be a world away from home, tucking into an ice cream and watching the kids splash in the pool, or enjoying one of the many free activities provided. Most importantly, someone else to do the cooking, the tidying up, and a tranquil place to stay. All on the doorstep.

Why go anywhere else?!

NOVOTELSUNSHINECOAST.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

FREE TOY + ICE CREAM!

Show this at the Tour Desk at time of arrival!

BOOK NOW!

25 June 10 July

RECIPE

egg

n i f f s u m A good gut breakfast or the perfect protein snack, the kids will love these healthy muffins!

DAIRY FREE | REFINED SUGAR FREE | GLUTEN-FREE OPTION MAKES 12 PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES INGREDIENTS

• 4 large wholemeal, or gluten-free wraps • 1 tbsp bone broth powder* • ¼ cup water • 8 eggs • Salt and pepper to taste • Filling as desired: mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, ham METHOD

1. Use a small bowl to cut three circles out of each wrap, to give you 12 circles. We found a ramekin to be the perfect size.

2. Line a 12-hole cupcake tin with the wrap circles.

3. In a small bowl, mix broth, water and beat in eggs, salt and pepper.

4. Place chosen fillings in each wrap base (we went with mushrooms) and top with egg mixture.

5. Cook at 1800C for 20 minutes or until cooked through.

R E C I P E S U P P L I E D B Y G U TA I D | G U TA I D.C O M . A U

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*Always read the label and follow directions for use.

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

GOOD L IFE SWIM SC HO O L

term 3 lessons

Music Therapy We offer high-quality, compassionate and evidence-based music therapy to improve your child’s quality of life in experiences such as: SONGWRITING AND MUSIC PRODUCTION • SINGING AND BEATBOXING • DRUMMING • MUSIC IMPROVISATION • MUSIC AND MEDITATION • PLAYLIST CREATION • MUSIC AND MOVEMENT • THERAPEUTIC INSTRUMENT LEARNING • SOUND THERAPY

NDIS

participants welcome

Kindergarten, prep and holiday programs

www.swaymusicservices.com PHONE: 0439647566 | LISA@SWAYMUSICSERVICES.COM SWAY MUSIC SERVICES, BLI BLI, QLD CLINIC BASED, MOBILE AND TELEHEALTH SERVICES AVAILABLE

FREE

ballet shoes for ever y ne w enrolment

New venues, new locations!

MAROOCHYDORE | NORTH BUDERIM | WARANA | MUDJIMBA | PEREGIAN  NO uniforms

 Payment plans available

 NO eisteddfods or exams

 Make-up classes available

 NO enrolment or registration fees

 Limited class sizes

 NO concert costumes or rehearsals  Balance between fun and learning

Classes on offer

Mummy & Me: 15 months – 3 years Kinderballet Tots & Kiddies: 3 – 5 years Kinderballet Next Steps: Prep – Y1 Kinderballet Aspire: Y2 & Y3 Junior Jazz & Cheer: 5 – 9 years

0405 478 909

www.danceempiresunshinecoast.com.au miranda@danceempiresunshinecoast.com.au

SUBSCRIBE NOW HERE!

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CLASSIFIEDS Shot House Brew Bar is located on Mooloolaba Esplanade, with a second store on Glen Kyle Drive in Buderim.

Nic, the owner, has worked in the coffee industry for over 10 years and has a passion for serving quality coffee without all the fuss. They serve locally roasted artisan coffee with sweet and savoury treats, always with a big smile.

Mooloolaba 7 days 5:30am-12pm Buderim Tues-Sat 5:30am-12pm

0459 963 275 | shothousebrewbar.com.au

Do you have the skills to save your child's life?

Simply gather a group of 6 or more and a qualified paramedic will come to your home to teach you!

Alternatively, join one of many public workshops across Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast.

0405 701 684

www.rescueblue.com.au

We are Australia’s largest multi-sport program for 1.5–6 year olds!

• Learn the basics of 10 great sports • Low child/coach ratios • Physio-designed, structured & FUN!

Behavioural Specialist and Early Childhood Educator W: www.kasiapalko.com.au P: 0422 993 609 FB: @KasiaPalkoBehaviouralSpecialist

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

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wittacork.com.au | (07) 5494 4369 | 286 Tesch Rd, Maleny

BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL NOW!

readysteadygokids.com.au 1300 766 892

WITTACORK FARMSTAY Stay on a real working dairy farm!

A picturesque dairy farm located just outside of Maleny. A true farm experience where guests can gain insight into the operation of a dairy, in addition to calf, pig and goat feeding, tractor and pony rides, and egg collecting. Our self-contained 2 and 3 bedroom cottages are set on a ridge overlooking Lake Baroon and the Kondalilla National Park.

One complimentary pony ride per child per stay.

More than just sport

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07 5443 8849

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PRE-SCHOOL SOCCER TRAINING FOR KIDS Classes for ages 18 months to 8 years! www.littlekickers.com.au | 0458 782 922 sunshinecoast@littlekickers.com.au W I N T E R 2022

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REVIEWS

BOOKS STUNT KIDS

By Trent Roberts

After ‘The Accident’, Gretel’s parents wouldn’t let her do anything slightly dangerous. No running. No jumping. No dancing. She wasn’t even allowed to take out the rubbish in case she rolled the wheelie bin over her foot.

So when she finds herself at a Stunt Camp where daredevil kids jump from great heights, she must face every one of her fears when she and her new friends are assigned a top secret, highly dangerous mission.

A hilariously thrilling adventure starring timid Gretel Grey who becomes part of a daredevil team to save kids everywhere from a supervillain.

For ages 8-14

RUSTY THE RAINBOW BIRD

By Aleesah Darlison Rusty is a Gouldian finch, native to the top of Australia. You’ll find him flittering and fluttering about near a waterhole. When he meets Olivia, they make a cosy nest and six eggs are laid. But Rusty’s family is under threat from bushfire.

The blend of vibrant full-page illustrations and dot points of important facts, makes this an excellent introduction to using non-fiction to find out more about the world we live in.

This is the third in the wonderful Endangered Animals series from award-winning Sunshine Coast author Aleesah Darlison. For ages 4+.

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KIND

By Jess McGeachin From the tiniest beetle to the most majestic whale, every creature on Earth is a marvel, deserving of awe and compassion.

This beautiful picture book is a unique celebration of living things of many kinds— and the kindness we can show them as we wander through the world.

From one of Australia’s most talented new picture-book creators comes this beautiful ode to the wonders of our natural world.

A stunning and lyrical masterpiece from an exciting Australian author.

For ages 3-7.

THE WRATH OF WOOLINGTON WORM; MISS MARY-KATE MARTIN’S GUIDE TO MONSTERS

By Karen Foxlee, illustrated by Freda Chiu Something unusual is happening in the village of Woolington. Could there be any truth in the myth of the beastly worm who lives in the ancient well? And if so, why would it return? Miss Mary-Kate Martin accompanies her archaeologist mother to Woolington, and she is not afraid to get to the bottom of this monstrous mystery.

A delightful fantasy-adventure for younger readers. For ages 6-10.

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

Discover Flinders

As one of Queensland’s leading schools, Matthew Flinders Anglican College educates for excellence in learning and life.

Come and learn how Flinders supports and challenges our students to develop as confident, capable and engaged learners with the desire and skills to contribute to a better world.

Join our Senior Primary Discovery Evening (Years 4-6) on Tuesday, 2 August.

Book your place at www.mfac.edu.au/discover or scan the QR code.

Stringybark Road, Buderim | 07 5477 3260 | Find us on

learning.

ney r u o j r u o y t r a St p. 5451 3600 a. Cnr Schubert & Kiel Mtn Rds, Woombye www.suncoastcc.qld.edu.au