Kids on the Coast Magazine - Sunshine Coast - Issue 93. July/August 2019 by Shore Media

ISSUE 93 July/August 2019 SUNSHINE COAST

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FREE TO TAKE HOME

LIVING CLEAN & GREEN

TAKE A TRIP ON THE MARY VALLEY RATTLER

WIN

a plastic-free starter kit from The Clean Collective

THE SUNSHINE COAST'S BEST INDOOR PLAY SPACES

Anything is Possible An Immanuel education starts at two years of age in our award-winning Immanuel Early Learning Centre. We give children the ability to explore, create and discover in any setting, including Forest School and our new Environmental Centre. Register today for our next Open Morning.

OPEN MORNING 22 AUGUST

immanuel.qld.edu.au

WELCOME

rrr… anyone else feeling chilly? Though the mornings are a bit of a struggle, I love these cold winter weeks (there really aren’t many!), with crisp days and clear blue skies. The beaches are beautiful, the parks are green, and it gets just cold enough to remind you of what a beautiful corner of the world we live in. In an effort to preserve this incredible little slice of paradise for our children and our children’s children, this issue we are all about living clean and green. We get the low-down from the fabulous Charlie Thompson and Georgia Lawson over at The Clean Collective, on the many simple steps we can all make to detox our homes. Our Education feature takes a look at the exciting Agricultural Science program at Nambour Christian College, ensuring all of their students grow with a connection to nature and land. And we also take a tour of the inspiring sustainability projects being implemented at Pacific Lutheran

College Early Learning Centre, nurturing their littlest students to develop a lifelong love for the environment. Exploring what’s happening on the doorstep at the moment, we head to Aura to find out all about the familyfriendly initiatives in store for this rapidly growing area of the Coast. And for those little ones with energy to burn, we check out the best spots for indoor play across the Sunshine Coast. Want to experience a little piece of history? We chat to a volunteer on the much-loved Mary Valley Rattler to find out the secrets of this iconic train line. And as always, we have a roundup of the best events the Sunshine Coast has to offer throughout July and August as well as the usual local news, reviews and more. With love and warm winter woolies,

Angela xo

How gorgeous is the eco-friendly kids’ picnic set on the cover? If you want to take a step towards plastic-free living, and be totally on-trend, we are giving away a plastic-free kit from The Clean Collective. Jump onto our website for all the details and to go into the draw! kidsonthecoast.com.au

THE TEAM

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Angela Sutherland

PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR Helen Rush

ACCOUNT MANAGER (GC) Bridget Vallis

ACCOUNT MANAGER (SC) Francesca Goad

DEPUTY EDITOR Amardy Baucke

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Amy Lou

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tanya Nissen

GRAPHIC DESIGN Danielle Lunn

ADMIN/ ACCOUNTS Sheryl Thomson

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

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

CONTENTS

Features

PUBLISHED BY

SH RE

LIVING CLEAN AND GREEN:

THINGS TO DO: As the days get colder,

The team at The Clean Collective share

we check out some of the Sunshine Coast’s

their tips on how we can all detox our homes.

best spots for indoor play.

Hello? Hello! Sorry, can’t chat right now, we’re at a really fun picnic!

IRIS (3)

MEDIA

FLORENCE (3)

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

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

ADVERTISING SUNSHINE COAST: helen@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706 sunshinecoast@shoremedia.com.au 0432 674 159

Regulars

Rex London bamboo plates, cups and cutlery, Ever Eco bamboo drinking straws, Cheeki stainless steel insulated tumbler, Kleen Kanteen insulated mug, Ever Eco nesting containers, Rex London lunch bag: The Clean Collective | Pastel Forest picnic rug: Wandering Folk | Le Toy Van play food: Rainbow Fun | Piki Picnic Basket: Olli Ella | Jose Cushion Ochre: Raw Sunshine Coast | Iris wears: Milkshake long-sleeved shirt, Milkshake cord skirt: Myer | Hunter gumboots: The Iconic Florence wears: Jack & Milly denim dress: Myer | Hunter gumboots: The Iconic

FROM THE EDITOR ................................................................................................................ 3 WHAT’S ON: The best local events for July and August..........................................................6 LOCAL NEWS: The latest news from across the Sunshine Coast .........................................12 CHECK THIS OUT: The latest products topping our #want list ......................................... 18 THINGS TO DO: Get set for 10 days of art-fuelled fun at Horizon Festival .................... 20 EARLY LEARNING: Sustainability starts early at Pacific Lutheran College .....................29 EDUCATION: Nambour Christian College – raising kids that care for the land.................33 LOCAL: Building Australia’s most liveable city ....................................................................... 45 EXPERT: The program turning tutoring on its head............................................................... 54 REVIEWS: Movies and books for the family ...........................................................................59 LOCAL LIFE: Take a trip on the Mary Valley Rattler.............................................................62 CLASSIFIEDS: Family-friendly products and services......................................................... 64 RECIPE: Spice up your life with these Vegetarian Egg Tacos.................................................66 We encourage recycling. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

GOLD COAST: goldcoast@shoremedia.com.au 0468 868 087 BRISBANE: brisbane@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 BOOKING DEADLINES Ad booking: 14 August Art deadline: 14 August Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across Southeast Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast. For distribution enquiries inbox@shoremedia.com.au Printed at Printcraft 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.

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’S ON VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE MORE EVENTS! S I G N U P AT 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 F O R O U R W E E K LY W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E

QUEENSLAND GARDEN EXPO 12–14 JULY Nambour Showgrounds, Nambour qldgardenexpo.com.au

10 AUGUST Immanuel Lutheran College, Buderim immanuel.qld.edu.au

Got a kid that loves to dig? The Queensland Garden Expo is back this July and there is a bundle of fun for the whole family. Chockfull of workshops, demonstrations, activities and more, the three-day event is for green thumbs and novice gardeners alike.

Voices on the Coast 17-20 JULY University Sunshine Coast (USC), Sippy Downs voicesonthecoast.com.au

Be inspired at the Coast’s most popular youth literature festival. Attracting children, young adults, emerging writers and eager readers, enjoy a range of workshops with Australia’s leading authors, illustrators and performers.

Nestled in the natural school surrounds, Fruehlingsfest is an annual twilight fair like no other. Bringing together community, arts and entertainment, enjoy roving artists, stacks of rides for all ages, live entertainment showcasing local talent, and over 40 stalls selling food from around the world.

THE LEGO ®

Sea Explorers TO 14 JULY SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba sealifesunshinecoast.com.au

Get ready for a bricktastic adventure this winter with the arrival of The LEGO Sea Explorers at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast! Join the LEGO Sea Explorers on an interactive mission to record discoveries about the spectacular sea creatures at the aquarium. Kids will be challenged to build, draw and create with LEGO!

HORIZON FESTIVAL 23 AUGUST – 1 SEPTEMBER Various locations across the Sunshine Coast horizonfestival.com.au

The Sunshine Coast’s premier multi-arts festival returns this winter, spread over 10 arts-fuelled days. Building on the success of 2018, there is a huge range of familyfriendly, interactive experiences in store this year, with something for every age.

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

Carnival Under the Stars 10 AUGUST Nambour Christian College, Nambour ncc.qld.edu.au

Nambour Christian College’s annual Carnival Under the Stars will be bigger and better than ever, with a jam-packed entertainment program, gourmet market stalls, showbags, great food and coffee, the famous Silent Auction, classic cakes and sweets stalls, face painting, rides for the whole family, and a magnificent fireworks display!

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.

FRUEHLINGSFEST

NEW!

get creative with The lego sea explorers ®

SugarRush Productions in conjunction with The Events Centre, Caloundra

LIVE THEATRE

And something special just for parents ...

for children & their adults

MOTHERHOOD THE MUSICAL

presents the hilarious

WARNING: Hilarious Adult Themes!

The good, the bad.... and the laundry

Written by Sue Fabisch

By ent ngem A r r a it h w er

pic id S Dav uctions d Pro

From prod the ucer of s

Monday 16 September @ 9.30 & 11.30am

Friday 2 & Saturday 3 August @ 7.30pm

Meno p The M ause u s ic a l

FRIDAY 2 AUGUST 7.30PM Bookings: 5491 4240 or www.theeventscentre.com.au SATURDAY 3 AUGUST 2PM & 7.30PM TICKETS:

theeventscentre.com.au | 07 5491 4240

WHAT’S ON VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE MORE EVENTS! S I G N U P AT 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 F O R O U R W E E K LY W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E

Principal’sTour

SPOT 16 SEPTEMBER The Event Centre, Caloundra theeventscentre.com.au

Spot and his friends are off on a new adventure to visit Spot’s Dad on the farm and meet the farm animals. But when they arrive, all the animals are lost! Can Spot and his friends find them all? Eric Hill’s beloved puppy comes to life on stage with puppetry, songs, and puzzles for children aged 18 months+ and their adults.

14 AUGUST Unity College, Caloundra West uc.qld.edu.au

Get a glimpse of life and learning at Unity College from Prep to Year 12, and see the culture first-hand. Meet the College Principal and enjoy a guided tour of classrooms and facilities. Sessions run from 9am and 4pm and can be booked online by visiting the College website.

POSSUM MAGIC 12 to 13 AUGUST Venue 114, Bokarina | venue114.com.au

Joined by an extraordinary creative team Monkey Baa is thrilled to be presenting a brand-new stage adaptation of this magical Australian classic for young audiences, promising an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.

BUDERIM COMMUNITY KINDERGARTEN OPEN DAY 20 JULY, 9am–11am Buderim Community Kindergarten, Buderim buderimkindy.com.au Families are invited to come along and discover why Buderim Kindy has been the community choice since 1973. Explore the outdoor play space and multi-sensory garden, and meet the team.

Sunshine Coast Grammar Open Day 14 AUGUST (Secondary students), 28 AUGUST (Primary students). Sunshine Coast Grammar School, Forest Glen scgs.qld.edu.au

This is a unique opportunity to have a behind-the-scenes experience of the School. Tour the campus, view the facilities and new aquatic centre, meet with the Heads of School and hear about the school’s vision for learning, meet students and see what they love about Grammar, meet other parents and enjoy a coffee at the café.

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

School Holiday ART ADVENTURES 1–14 JULY Noosa Regional Gallery noosaregionalgallery.com.au

Let the kids get messy these school holidays at Noosa Regional Gallery! With a variety of drawing, painting, sculpture and stitching workshops at $15 a session, keep boredom at bay with creative fun for ages six through to late teens. All workshop sessions are run by the Gallery’s professional arts facilitator.

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

UNITY COLLEGE

‘A magical children’s

TS EN ES

theatre show filled with fascinating surprises’ THE CLOTHESLINE

LOOSE ENDS JENS ALTHEIMER

PERFORMANCE

BOOK NOW Image: Sabine Heng. Tour coordinated by Red Chair. Red Chair is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.

venue114.com.au

82744K 06/19.

SAT 24 AUG / 10.30AM / VENUE 114, BOKARINA TICKETS $20 / $68 FAMILY (2 X ADULTS & 2 CHILDREN)

Free Mums and Bubs Mornings

Join us every Thursday morning to catch up with other like minded mums/ caregivers, and enjoy a complimentary coffee from one of our Cafes.* Location: The Little Community Space Date: Every Thursday Time: 10am *Noosa Civic will provide complimentary hot beverage vouchers for customers to use at their chosen cafĂŠ in Centre. Vouchers will be distributed between 10am and 10.15am. One voucher per person. For more information visit noosacivic.com.au.

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

THINGS TO DO

StepABBEY back in time at the MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL Ever wondered what life was like in the Middle Ages? This July, step back to days of old at the Abbey Medieval Festival!

ith food vendors, merchants, craft, two taverns, eight entertainment venues, and over 40 re-enactment encampments, the Abbey Medieval Festival has something for everyone.

Kids Dig It! Medieval Family Fun Week

Top of the list for families is the Kids Dig It! Medieval Family Fun Week. You will find all the Abbey Museum favourites including archery, archaeological digs and shield painting, plus a few new activities to keep kids occupied! Learn the art of illumination, calligraphy, and needlework at the Master Classroom. See what treasures you can find at the archaeological dig! Join the Page Training to find out what life was like for a young boy starting his training to be a Knight, (of course both boys and girls are welcome!), and get arty by decorating a shield, poppet (wooden doll), or torque (headband). There will also be Archery and plenty of games from the Middle Ages including Skittles, Quoits, Nine Men’s Morris, and Chess. The museum will be full of calming activities like a reading corner, paper crafts, brass rubbings, puzzles and costume dress ups. Held from 1 – 5 July; activities start at 10am and run until 3pm every day.

Tournament Weekend

Held on 13 and 14 July, there are five tournaments

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

Information When: Kids Dig It! Medieval Family Fun Week 1–5 July Tournament Weekend 13–14 July Where: 1–63 The Abbey Place, Caboolture, Queensland, 4510 More info: abbeymedievalfestival.com / 07 5495 1652 that take place across Tournament Weekend. The most popular is, without a doubt, the joust. The pageantry, suspense and action of this medieval sport has been a long tradition of the Abbey Medieval Festival. National and internationally acclaimed jousters will compete at the Abbey Medieval Festival in the hopes of becoming the 2019 Joust Champion. The Abbey Medieval Festival’s joust is held three times each day, with the finale on Sunday afternoon seeing the champion chosen. Debuting in 2018, the holmgang was the first Dark Age ritual to feature as one of the Abbey Medieval Festival’s five official tournaments. Literally translated as ‘small island walk’, the Norse tradition was a duel, a way to settle a dispute through combat where resolution couldn’t be found through legal talks and negotiation. The Archery Tournament is also a long running tradition of the Abbey Medieval Festival. Hosted by the Traditional Archery Companye, the Archery Tournament sees skilled archers from re-enactment groups compete for the title of Archery Champion. There will also be a Tournament of Strength and Skill, designed to test the physical prowess of the knights, and Turkish Oil Wrestling. J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

LOCAL NEWS

TURE

BUILDING A LITTLE COMMUNITY Noosa Civic Shopping Centre has recently introduced the Little Community Space, an area in the Centre dedicated to the community. “Each week we will host an array of community activities and events,” said Aimee Dodge, Marketing Manager at Noosa Civic. Events include Complimentary Cuppa Morning on Tuesdays, Kids’ Mornings on Wednesdays, and a Mums and Bubs Morning on Thursdays. “You can catch up with likeminded mums and caregivers, and enjoy a complimentary coffee from one of our cafes,” explained Aimee. “Members of the community can use the space to host workshops, talks or community initiatives. And outside of bookings and activities, customers can relax and enjoy the space.” The Little Community Space is also home to the Noosa Civic Community Library, where you are welcome to take a book, leave a book and share a book.

THE SNOWIEST CITY ON EARTH IS AOMORI CITY IN JAPAN, WHICH RECEIVES AN AVERAGE OF 7.9M OF SNOW EACH YEAR. Find out more at noosacivicshopping.com.au

HAVING A FEAR OF SNOW IS CALLED ‘CHIONOPHOBIA’. The record for the world’s largest snowman was set in 2008 in Bethel, Maine, USA. At a whopping 34.4m tall, three x 1.5m truck tyres were used for buttons, eyelashes were made from eight pairs of skis, and the scarf was 39m long. 25CM OF SNOW MELTS DOWN TO ONLY 2.5CM OF WATER.

EVERY WINTER, AT LEAST ONE SEPTILLION (THAT’S 1, FOLLOWED BY 24 ZEROS) SNOW CRYSTALS FALL FROM THE SKY.

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

FA M I LY-F R I E N D LY D AY S AT F O R E S T G L E N H O L I D AY R E S O R T

The Big 4 Resort at Forest Glen has become an independent resort, now called Forest Glen Holiday Resort. “We still have the same great facilities, nothing has changed other than the name!” explained Leanne Barnes, from Forest Glen Holiday Resort. The good news for local families is that the resort continues to offer the popular $10 resort day pass. “For $10 per head, families can use all the resort’s facilities for the entire day,” said Leanne. “Kids love the giant bouncing cushion, and the heated swimming pool with water slide. We also have mini golf, outdoor chess, tennis courts, basketball, playground, games room, an indoor and outdoor movie theatre, and plenty of space to kick a ball and relax.” The resort is a popular place for birthday parties, family gatherings, or simply as a place for families to reconnect for the day.

Feed the wild lorikeets each day at Forest Glen Holiday Resort.

Find out more at www.forestglenresort.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

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

GOT A STORY TO SHARE? EMAIL OUR EDITOR ON INBOX@SHOREMEDIA.COM.AU

DANCE EMPIRE OPENS IN AURA Popular preschool ballet studio Dance Empire has extended its timetable to add Caloundra classes to its growing schedule. “We are thrilled to add Caloundra classes to our timetable which currently offers classes six days per week in Peregian, Maroochydore and Warana,” said Miranda Smith, owner of Dance Empire. “Term 3 begins 15 July; bookings are now being accepted with classes filling fast.” Held at the brand-new purpose-built studio in the Aura community, the Caloundra classes will be available on Monday and Wednesday mornings, and the dance school aims to add additional mornings later in the year. “Our very popular Mummy and Me class (18 months–3 years) will be followed by

a Kinderballet class for 3–5 year olds,” explained Miranda. “All new students will receive a pair of free ballet shoes on enrolment, and mention Kids on the Coast to receive a free trial class too!” Dance Empire differs from other dance studios in that it doesn’t require uniforms, there’s no registration fees, and no exams or eisteddfods. “Our programs are specifically designed for preschool children and delivered by highly qualified teachers,” said Miranda. “And we keep classes small, ensuring we always strike the right balance between fun and learning.” danceempiresunshinecoast.com.au FB: @DanceEmpireSunshineCoast

FOR THE KIDS

12:00 - 6.30pm Saturday 10th August 2019

Face Painting Animal Nursery Glow toys Dunking Machine Showbags Games: Prize Punch, Crazy Hair, Quacker ker, Splat-a-Rat, Wac NE FOR EVERYO Beanbag Bout, hot us Delicio Balloon Bust, & cold food Fireworks Cafe - coffee & cake 6:30pm ’s Books, Records, DVD Second-hand items Silent & Cent Auction Entertainment Pot plants Food hampers Fresh produce Conserves

RIDES FOR ’S UNDER PREP Super Slider des Mini Jeep Ri lls Hamster Ba Dartball stle Jumping Ca urse Obstacle Co Slot Cars

Free Rides Offer for Under Prep’s We are offering your under Prep aged children FREE access to age-appropriate rides at our Carnival. Present this flyer to the rides booth on the day, and you will be issued with a ride band entitling your child to ride free for up to 6 hours. You can purchase additional ride tickets for other children if required. Loads of fun for the whole family.

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

NAMBOUR CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

www.ncc.qld.edu.au

2 McKenzie Road, Woombye QLD 4559 | (07) 5451 3333

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

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

TRIAL KUMON

Maths or English this August!

BACK TO NATURE

at Little Village’s Bush Kindy

ittle Village Early Learning has Bush Kindy sessions every day. created new nature play experiences “The children love to learn about the for its little learners, establishing a environment, see the wildlife that has Bush Kindy program at its Buderim centre. visited, and to build confidence in a more “The children and the educators at the challenging environment,” said Leonie. centre all contributed to the idea,” said “Children have recently started whittling Centre Owner Leonie Macleod. “The with knives, learning to tie ropes and hope children wanted a Ninja gym, the educators to learn fire making later in the year.” wanted a yarning circle, and we wanted a Already incredibly popular with families, place that created a connection the centre plans to continue “THE CHILDREN with nature. Together we developing the program. LOVE TO have developed a Bush Kindy “We’ve had some fantastic LEARN environment and outdoor feedback from parents so far!” learning program we are really Leonie said. “We’ll continue to ABOUT THE proud of.” ENVIRONMENT.” develop our educators through “We heard concerns from training in nature play and local schools that some children were outdoor learning. ” starting formal education lacking in upper As well as the Bush Kindy, Little body and core strength, which are necessary Village has been busy developing other for sitting at a desk or even holding a enrichment programs. “We also provide pencil,” Leonie continued. “So, we included music and movement classes, Ella Japanese gym pieces and climbing ropes in the Bush and a range of cultural and educational Kindy to develop that upper body strength.” incursions and excursions.” Available to all children at the Centre For more information, or to reserve a place from three years old, Little Village holds for 2020, visit littlevillage.net.au.

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

hroughout August, Kumon is offering families a free trial of its Maths or English programmes. As part of the trial, students will receive individualised Kumon instruction across four consecutive class days at Kumon Kawana Waters, spread across two weeks, for free. During this time, they will also receive necessary materials to allow them to continue their Kumon studies at home. “If parents enrol their kids, they’ll start to see positive changes through the Kumon learning effect within a month,” said Anthony Chamberlain, Instructor of Kumon Kawana Waters Education Centre. Anthony opened Kumon Kawana Waters in 2016. Since then, he has supported hundreds of Sunshine Coast kids to develop their maths and English skills, and to grow in confidence. Places are limited and acceptance for the free trial is on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is no obligation to enrol after the free trial is over. To register for the free trial, call Anthony on 0421 455 048 or email avc@kumonkawanawaters.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

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

 Free pair of sunglasses

(Up to RRP $19.95) for each of your children when they have a bulk billed eye examination with a Looking Smart Optometrist. (Age limit up to 12 years old)

 Tests are fun for children

The test takes approximately 15 minutes

 Looking Smart Optometrists bulk bill all initial eye examinations provided the patient has a Medicare or DVA card

 Easy parking

Did you know... 30% of children have some type of eye condition that affects vision?

In most cases if the eye condition is detected early enough, exercises can be given to avoid it developing into a vision problem at school. In some cases vision problems exhibit themselves in children who have short attention spans but often are undetected by the parents or carers. At Looking Smart Optometrists we recommend a vision test for every child who is 6 months of age or older. We bulk bill all eye tests so it costs you nothing to have it done, and you can feel secure that you are looking after your child’s eyesight.

Phone: 5439 7844 Between Coles and Woolworths at the Pelican Waters Shopping Village, Pelican Waters Blvd, Pelican Waters

Email:info@lookingsmartoptometrists.com.au

www.LookingSmartOptometrists.com.au

NEW BUSINESS LOCAL BUSINESSES TO ENHANCE YOUR KID-SIZED LIFE WANT TO SHARE YOUR BUSINESS STORY? EMAIL OUR EDITOR AT INBOX@SHOREMEDIA.COM.AU

Essentials Only

fter purchasing a pre-loved pram babes. “We also get creative with some that desperately needed a thorough household favourites, including vinegar, clean, local mother–daughter duo baking soda, oil of clove, citrus extract, Tyaka Ringrose and Michelle Graves, had eucalyptus oil, coconut oil and good oldthe idea to launch Happy Little Cruisers – a fashioned steam to work on stubborn new business providing quick, convenient, stains, mould, and to kill bacteria and germs.” eco-friendly pram cleaning and sanitising. Servicing from Maroochydore to Noosa, “We were unable to find a local business to Happy Little Cruisers offers a same-day provide the cleaning service, so the idea was service, so you won’t be without your quickly formed,” explained pram or car seat any longer “USING ECO-FRIENDLY Michelle. “Plus, we can help than necessary. PRODUCTS THAT DON’T to reduce waste by giving “Keep an eye out at CONTAIN ANY NASTY parents the opportunity to your Kindergarten or buy pre-loved prams that day care centre too,” said TOXINS, ALL CLEANING have been professionally AGENTS USED BY HAPPY Michelle. “We’re working cleaned and sanitised for the with them to offer LITTLE CRUISERS ARE ‘new wheels feel’.” parents the convenience TOUGH ON STAINS BUT Using eco-friendly of dropping off their pram SOFT ON BABES.” products that don’t contain and/or car seat in the any nasty toxins or hazardous ingredients, morning and collecting a freshly cleaned all cleaning agents used by Happy Little pram and/or car seat in the afternoon.” Cruisers are tough on stains but soft on Find out more at happylittlecruisers.com

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

Credit: Helen Alexandra Photography

HAPPY LITTLE CRUISERS

edicated to living clean and green, Sunshine Coast mum Kelly Kilah has launched a unique range of non-toxic ready-made natural products, as well as raw ingredients and kits designed for families to create their own everyday household products. “We can provide naturally derived alternatives to just about every product you currently use including cleaning, health, beauty and wellness,” Kelly said. It all started when her daughter developed eczema and, knowing she needed to strip back the harsh chemical-based products, she began to use products that contained just the essential ingredients. “I started with making our own moisturiser and hair detangling spray, and then continued into things like diet and gut health, said Kelly. “The results were fantastic, and I realised it was something I needed to share, so Essentials Only was born.” However, her ultimate mission goes beyond simply the ready-made products. “My aim is to empower people to fill their cupboards with essential oils and organic natural raw ingredients and create their own household products that contain only the essential ingredients,” Kelly said. “Being low-tox doesn’t have to be expensive.” Find out more at essentialsonly.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

THE PUURR-FECT THERAPY

ll mums love (aka need) good coffee. But how puurr-fect would it be if that coffee also comes with a side of cat cuddles? Full of fur-babies ready for a pat, The Cat Retreat Café is the first Cat Café on the Sunshine Coast… and mee-wow, we are hooked! The café is the brainchild of Tania Barton, owner of Hobbits Knob Cat Retreat – a feline sanctuary which is now considered one of the best cat boarding establishments in Australia. ‘Now that Hobbits Knob Cat Retreat is established, we wish to extend our services to include an interactive Cat Café, where we house adult cats and provide training, enrichment and extra love and care in an exclusive cat friendly environment,” says Tania. “Patrons can enjoy the serenity of our hinterland property at our cat-themed café, which is baby and toddler friendly with a change table and toys, or they can book a session to have cake and coffee with the cats in the interactive cat environment, The Zen Zone,” says Tania. “They can also hire out the entire Zen Zone for a small group price for up to 15

patrons, where they can have the cats to themselves.” “We look forward to providing the region with an experience unlike any other. We aim to be the most talked about Café on the Coast, and although the focus is on working closely with refuge cats to provide a different avenue to find their ‘forever home’, we aim to have some pretty fantastic coffee, drinks and treats!” All the cats at the Cat Retreat Café are refuge cats, looking for a new home. The Cat Retreat Café is in partnership with the Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge, and a percentage of the proceeds from the Zen Zone goes to the Refuge. This has to be the puuurr-fect place for a cuppa after school dropoff, or for a Mother’s Group catchup. And you’ll all soon be feline fine! Find out more at catreatcafe.com.au or on Facebook: @catretreatcafe

Bring the kids along to our cat themed cafe to enjoy our yummy snack and drink menu, not to mention indulging yourself with our fair-trade sustainable coffee and locally produced gourmet treats. You could also make an event of it with family and friends, by booking a session in our interactive cat environment, The Zen Zone. • Connect to a cat looking for a furrever home • Love, enrich & rehabilitate refuge cats • Ultimate cat lover’s experience • Encourages positive wellbeing • Controlled, relaxed environment • Break down social barriers Café Open Tuesday to Saturday 8:30am to 2:30pm Zen Zone Open Tuesday to Saturday 10:30am, 12:00pm & 1:30pm 1-hour sessions, bookings essential

Check out our family deals, annual passes, promotions and events including all bookings at our website 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

129 Dales Road, Chevallum www.catretreatcafe.com.au | 0448 228 578 J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

CHECK THIS OUT THE LATEST PRODUCTS TOPPING OUR #WANT LIST!

PALS INCLUSIVE MISMATCHED SOCKS

As featured on the cover!

The popular American inclusive streetwear socks have landed in Australia, and we love! All Pals socks come mismatched as two different friends. A cat and a dog. A dragon and a unicorn. Ice Cream and Donut. Inspiring kids to have a friend not just like them and encouraging empathy in a really fun way. Made from supercomfy terry cotton to prevent holes, kids’ socks also come with no-skid grips on the soles. From $14.99 mysockcompany.com

THE NAIL SNAIL The Nail Snail is designed to provide greater control and accuracy for easier, safer and faster nail cutting, offering complete fingernail and toenail care for your little one. The innovative v-shaped blade makes for smoother nail cutting, and being so simple to use, it’s quick to get the job done. The fun snail shape and noiseless cutting edge means your child won’t mind having their nails trimmed! Simple, effective and safe, the Nail Snail makes trimming baby’s nails a breeze. $19.95 nail-snail.com

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

HONEYBAKE SMOOTHIE FRUIT IN CRATE This cute little crate of play fruit from Le Toy Van features a selection of eco-friendly wooden toy fruit pieces in a cute little wooden crate. This set includes two bananas, a strawberry, a peach and a watermelon slice all freshly harvested from the Le Toy Van garden. Suitable for ages: 3+ years. $24.99 rainbowfun.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

MOBY NIGHT LIGHTS Help kiddies cruise to snooze with these happy little night lights from Flow Amsterdam. Available in four different sizes (mini, small, medium and large) this soft low-density polyethylene night lamp makes it perfectly safe for kids to cuddle with. RRP: $29.95 – $450 dutchbydesign.com.au

SHEA MOISTURE BABY COLLECTION This gentle skincare range is made from natural ingredients to nurture and soothe and care for a baby’s delicate skin: shea butter deeply moisturises and nourishes the skin, chamomile calms the skin and senses, argan oil, frankincense and myrrh extracts keep skin soft and smooth. Amazing for a mama’s hands too! From $19.95 sheamoisture.com.au

GIRLS BEANIES Stay toastie this winter with these warm and wooly beanies from Myer. The Sprout Bunny Beanie (left) and Jack & Milly Intarsia Beanie (right) both come in several sizes for a perfect fit, and feature a fun coloured pom pom to be totally on-trend this season. $16.95 myer.com.au

REUSABLE COFFEE CUPS Made from extremely durable borosilicate glass, Little Strawberries reusable coffee cups are perfect for people on the go. Each cup comes with a food grade, BPA-free silicone lid and sleeve. They also have an elevated lid to drink from, making them less likely to spill or leak when being transported. Dishwasher safe, microwave safe, eco-friendly and affordable! $28.00 littlestrawberries.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

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

HORIZON FESTIVAL 2019 Credit: Laine Tribes Images

Whether you’re 2 or 52, Horizon Festival 2019 is packed with family-friendly events. So, get set for 10 days of arts-fuelled fun!

Credit: Laine Tribes Images

Credit: Greg Sketcher

Breathtaking stunts at Alex Heads skate park.

FOR LITTLE ONES FESTIVAL CENTRAL KIDS TAKE OVER

Each Saturday, Festival Central will be taken over by little people and their families with workshops and activities including clay making, musical instruments and family dance parties, Horizon Kids’ line-up of free activities is the perfect way to spend the weekend as a family. INTO THE WILD WITH WILDLINGS FOREST SCHOOL

Get outdoors and let your little wildling’s imaginations run free. Create a cubby in an enchanted forest, join a nature playgroup, make crowns and fishing wands, and on Father’s Day build a raft, float down Petrie Creek then enjoy a picnic in the forest space. Various dates and locations.

FOR BIGGER KIDS (7+) LOOSE ENDS

Sat 24 Aug, 10.30am, Venue114 | GA $20 / Family $68 / Kids under 2 on the knee free

Journey to an eccentric place where gadgets are poetic, puppets naughty, machines

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

untamed and circus tricks pop up when you’re least expecting it! Loose Ends is the story of a man who thinks he can organise all his life in boxes, and has a knack for getting into mischief. REVOLVE

Sat 31 Aug & Sun 1 Sep, 11am & 3pm, Harmony, Palmview | Free

Revolve brings together 12 of Queensland’s youngest circus stars, experienced artists and a live DJ to create a show that’s bursting at the seams with energy and fun. Wheels, bikes, roller skates, unicycles, and even a tractor tyre are jammed onto the stage to create a whirling cacophony of wheeling wonder.

FOR TEENS POINT

Fri 30 Aug, 5–10pm, The Events Centre Caloundra | $35

The ultimate festival party for teens boasting an all-star line-up of the country’s most exciting emerging and established artists curated by QMusic, plus multi-art projections and installations.

SNAKE SESSIONS

Tue 27–Fri 30 Aug, 10am–4.30pm | Performance Sat 31 Aug, 2–5pm | Alexandra Headlands Skate Park | Free

For the skaters in your family, Sydney company, Branch Nebula, brings their breathtaking, anarchic street-style performance to the Alex Heads skate park. Branch Nebula’s team will infiltrate the park for a whole week, jamming moves and tricks with the locals and closing with a spectacular improvised performance.

Circus stars, a DJ and a tractor tyre come together in Revolve. Credit: Flipside Circus

Sat 24 & Sat 31 Aug, 10am–3pm, Festival Central, Maroochydore City Centre

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

THINGS TO DO

MOUNTAIN

Fri 23–Sun 25 Aug, 6.30pm and 8pm, Festival Central, Maroochydore City Centre | Free

The ultimate party for teens 15+

HORIZON SOUNDS

Sat 31 Aug, 6.30–9.30pm | Festival Central, Maroochydore City Centre | Free

Credit: Kris Andrew Small

A stunning performance that combines aerial theatre with cutting edge interactive technology. Two shows each night will light up Festival Central when four performers seamlessly meld acrobatics, dance and aerials to create a captivating spectacle. After the show, you’re invited to play with the interactive projection system.

Make your own botanical eco-resin jewellery.

Mountain combines aerial theatre with interactive technology.

Credit: Arron Walker

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

FOR MUM IN THE GARDENS

Kick back at Festival Central and enjoy a stellar line-up of free live music, with a packed program of established Queensland bands and musicians, as well as some incredible up-and-coming local talent. Paired with a delicious meal and tasty brew, this is the perfect night out for any music lover.

In the serene surroundings of the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, try your hand at Life Drawing in the Gardens (31 Aug). You can also collect leaves, flowers, bark and moss and turn them into Botanicals Eco-Resin Jewellery (27 Aug & 1 Sep) making your very own botanical necklace and bangle.

EUMUNDI SCHOOL OF ROCK

Horizon has a phenomenal line-up of documentary films in 2019 so get your girlfriends together and enjoy a night out at the movies. Be inspired by #FEMALE PLEASURE (Aug 27) – five cultures, five women, one story. #FEMALE PLEASURE portrays five courageous, smart and self-determined women, breaking the silence imposed by their archaic-patriarch societies and religious communities. The film will be followed by a panel discussion, Women to the Front.

AT THE FLICKS

Sat 24 Aug, 5pm, Eumundi School of Arts Hall | From $15

Eumundi School of Rock presents 20 young rockers from the class of 2019. This concert is the culmination of all their hard work and a chance to see five-time ARIA winning and seven-time platinum selling school founder, Katie Noonan, alongside local band Mufassa and The Pride.

FOR DAD See the new wave of young rockers from Eumundi School of Rock.

Enjoy a night of comedy with Dave Hughes.

From comedy to punk rock, Horizon has the Dad’s covered too. Sit back, grab a beer and enjoy a one-man interactive storytelling performance THE COLD RECORD – the story of a 12-year-old boy who tries to set the record for the most days leaving school sick and, in the process, falls in love with the school nurse and learns to appreciate punk rock. Stand-up comedy king, DAVE HUGHES, hasn’t had a haircut for a year. Is it a crisis, is he going through menopause, what does his wife think? Don’t miss this side-splitting night of laughs and find out why on 31 August at The Shed at Aussie World.

To see the full line-up of events, visit horizonfestival.com.au

! d r a o B n O t e G Experience the MAGIC OF HERITAGE RAIL TRAVEL WEDNESDAYS TO SUNDAYS

Explore the Historic Gympie Station, grab a snack or meal at the Platform No.1 Cafe before jumping aboard for a great family adventure. Historic Gympie Station, 10 Tozer Street, Gympie, Qld. 07 5482 2750 info@maryvalleyrattler.com.au @maryvalleyrattler

BOOK NOW www.maryvalleyrattler.com.au

BRIGHTWATER STATE SCHOOL A bright beginning to lifelong learning

The Brightwater State School Preparatory Curriculum is an exciting and nurturing program supporting children to experience a positive entry to the school community by offering: • A supportive transition process allowing children to acclimatise to the schooling environment whilst valuing links between pre-prep and prep programs. • Personalised Learning providing every child with the tools necessary to engage in their world at their own pace in order to reach their full potential. • Inquiry Based Learning encouraging opportunities for children to discover the wonder in their world and explore new possibilities. • Playfulness as a vehicle to encourage humour, fun and a love of learning. • Dynamic Learning Environments that are responsive and ever changing to meet the needs of our children. • Meaningful Partnerships between school and families embracing opportunities for families to be a part the learning journey. Brightwater State School, 20 Dianella Drive Mountain Creek | P: (07) 5438 3111 E: office@brightwaterss.eq.edu.au W: www.brightwaterss.eq.edu.au

Prep Enrolme nts for 2020 NOW OP EN

LIVING CLEAN & GREEN Easy ways to detox your bathroom

ith all the recent discussion about the effects of carbon emissions on the planet, you might think it’s safer to stay indoors. Surely the air is cleaner inside our homes? Alarmingly, the average person receives 72 per cent of their total toxic chemical exposure at home! The Environment Protection Authority believes our indoor environment is two to five times more toxic than our outdoor environment. In extreme cases, air measurements indoors have been found to be 100 times more polluted than outdoors – yikes! Much of this pollution comes from our cleaning products. Our bathrooms can be one of the biggest indoor polluters, where we use chemicals on the floor, in the air, down the sinks, down the toilet, in the bath... the list goes on. And what you wash down the drain ends up in our waterways and back into our ecosystem and food chain. A study by Environment Canada found 400 chemicals in commercial use across Canada and the US will not be broken down and will end up accumulating in fish and wildlife. Luckily, with just a few small changes to our daily lifestyles, we can all help to reverse these statistics and make our homes a much greener place to live! 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

1. Read the labels and know which ingredients to avoid

2. Don’t want to spend time reading the labels? Go natural instead!

Many mainstream brands fool us into thinking they are good for the planet and our health, boasting taglines like ‘made using organic ingredients’, or by using images of leaves or nature. You feel good about putting them into your shopping trolley, thinking you’re making an ethical, responsible consumer choice. But, when you turn over the bottle and look on the back, you are suddenly confronted with an alphabet soup of words that look like they have been plucked from the periodic table. Many chemicals – either naturally occurring or man-made – can be toxic. Common toxins to look out for include lead, methylmercury, arsenic, pesticides, chlorine, sodium hydroxide, sodium laurel sulphate, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), phthalates, parabens, sulphates, triclosan, ammonia, chlorine, sodium hydroxide, propylene, ethylene, butadiene, benzene, xylene perc (perchloroethylene), alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs) and phosphates.

‘Kills 99.9% of germs!’, ‘Powerful foam penetrates and lifts through grime!’, ‘Tough on stains!’ Sound familiar? Mainstream cleaning brands will have us believe the strongest, toughest chemical cleaners are best for our homes and our families. But in fact, research by the US Environmental Protection Agency found more than 150 chemicals commonly used in our household cleaners are associated with allergies, cancer, psychological disorders and birth defects. So, it goes without saying, if you replace toxin-heavy chemical cleaners with clean, eco-friendly products, you’ll feel better than ever! The easiest way to do this is to choose truly natural cleaning products. Brands such as Koala Eco or Lil Bit Better meet the strict guidelines of The Clean Collective, ensuring they are safe for your family. The Clean Collective has the strictest ingredients and materials policy in Australia, so shopping there means never having to read a label again. Winning! J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

3. DIY toxin-free bathroom Confused by the labels? One way to know what’s in your products is to make them yourself! Truly natural cleaning products are completely toxin-free and surprisingly easy to make. More than 95 per cent of the chemicals in synthetic fragrances are derived from petrochemicals, including benzene derivatives, aldehydes and phthalates. To avoid these, here are three simple DIY recipes* you can try at home.

FLORAL ROOM FRAGRANCE WHAT YOU NEED:

25 drops lavender essential oil 25 drops geranium essential oil 5 drops ylang ylang essential oil 2 tsp vodka 120ml amber glass spray bottle Distilled water

LIQUID HAND SOAP

HOW TO MAKE IT:

• Mix all ingredients together in the glass spray bottle. • Gently shake to mix.

WHAT YOU NEED:

½ cup Castile Soap liquid ½ cup distilled water 1 tablespoon of Vitamin E oil (optional) 1 tablespoon almond oil or jojoba oil or olive oil 15 drops of tea tree essential oil 5-10 drops lavender essential oil An amber glass jar or pump bottle, or a recycled soap dispenser HOW TO MAKE IT:

EUCALYPTUS ALL PURPOSE CLEANER WHAT YOU NEED:

20 drops of eucalyptus essential oil 20 drops of orange essential oil 20 drops of peppermint essential oil ¼ cup of grain alcohol (like Everclear; 120 proof or higher) ¾ cup of distilled water 8oz glass spray bottle HOW TO MAKE IT:

• Add all ingredients to the bottle and shake well. • Shake well before each use. • Clean surfaces around the house with a cloth… it smells great too! • Be sure to test on surface before use. Don’t worry about the alcohol, it evaporates really quickly, and the smell will only linger a few minutes.

• In the glass jar, pump bottles or using a recycled soap dispenser, add the water first (to prevent bubbles) and then add the Castile Soap and the oils. • Gently shake to mix the ingredients together. • Shake gently before each use and then squirt or pour a small amount onto your hands and rinse with water.

4. Avoid the (synthetic) bubble They might make for some bath-time fun, but bubbles are often caused by SLS, the ingredient that creates lather and one of the most commonly used detergents and emulsifiers in cosmetics and personal hygiene products. SLS has been proven to cause both skin and eye irritation. Not to mention, when it’s manufactured, it gets contaminated with two carcinogens: 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide. For natural bubbles try products such as Little Innoscents Hair & Body Wash or Wotnot Baby Wash.

*Ingredients and spray bottles can be sourced at thecleancollective.com

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

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

WILDAS

LIFeGETS

2018 QUEENSLAND

GOLD WINNER

Crikey! Australia Zoo is Queenslandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top Tourist Attraction 2018!

australiazoo.com.au

5307

Open daily 9:00am - 5:00pm (Closed Christmas Day) Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, Sunshine Coast, Queensland

5. Go plastic free! Plastic also contributes to the amount of toxins in our home. Toxic chemicals leach out of plastic and are found in the blood and tissue of nearly all of us. Exposure to them is linked to cancers, birth defects, impaired immunity, endocrine disruption and other ailments. Yikes again! Avoid plastic in your bathroom with some of these super-cute alternatives.

PATCH BAMBOO ORGANIC KIDS ADHESIVE STRIPS These biodegradable, plasticfree, hypoallergenic band-aids‚ are engineered for the future eco-warriors – our kids. Made from 100% organic bamboo fibre, and enriched with coconut oil in the gauze to help soothe minor abrasions and provide long-lasting support for sensitive skin. And let’s not forget the cute panda print, designed to comfort children in life’s little emergencies. $7.99 thecleancollective.com

THE CLEAN COLLECTIVE PLASTIC-FREE BATHROOM BUNDLE Replace your bathroom essentials with these gorgeous plastic-free, eco-friendly options: plastic-free cotton buds, bamboo toothbrush, plastic-free and fair-trade nail brush, a pure konjac sponge, and a coconut-fibre foot and body scrub. Equal amounts of good looking and damn useful, this bundle makes a perfect gift for any eco-conscious friend or family member. $50.20 thecleancollective.com

JACK N JILL DINO RINSE CUP Make teeth brushing time more fun with this super cute Dino rinse cup! Has a matching toothbrush and can be used to rinse after brushing, store the brush and toothpaste, or as a lightweight but durable drinking cup. This eco-friendly cup is made from bamboo and rice husks, and is dishwasher safe. $9.95 thecleancollective.com

THE HUMBLE CO BAMBOO TOOTHBRUSH, KIDS ULTRA SOFT The world’s most sold bamboo toothbrush for kids. Humble Brush has a handle made from 100% biodegradable, sustainablygrown bamboo. The bristles are made of nylon-6 bristles from Dupont. The packaging is eco-friendly, the box and inside wrapper are made from recycled materials, and can be thrown out with the organic trash. Plus, every Humble purchase goes towards funding oral health projects for children in need. $6.45 thecleancollective.com

B Y C H A R L I E T H O M P S O N & G E O R G I A L AW S O N , F R O M T H E C L E A N C O L L E C T I V E The Clean Collective provides the cleanest and greenest products on earth, all in one place. Every product passes a strict multi-process system that forensically checks every ingredient before it makes it into the collection. A kind-hearted bunch of like-minded mamas, you can connect with them at thecleancollective.com or on social: @thecleancollective

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

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

ST THOMAS MORE

Catholic Primary School ...in truth and love

Prepare your child for school and enrol them in our kindy program now! Learn. Play. Grow. Explore. Nurture. Community. 38 Townsend Rd, Buderim | (07) 5445 1952 e: buderimkindy@optusnet.com.au

www.buderimkindy.com.au

St Thomas More educates children from Prep to Year 6 and focuses on the whole person. We are committed to a high quality education where Christian values are at the core of who we are. Our dedicated teachers and staff work collaboratively to prepare and deliver a rich curriculum that caters for individual abilities and interests. Our learning experiences engage students in innovative activities to develop their intellectual, physical, spiritual, moral, social, emotional, and aesthetic talents. At the heart of our education are the values of respect, honesty, tolerance, cooperation, and a genuine concern for the welfare of others.

ENROL NOW for 2020 75 Ben Lexcen Drive, SUNSHINE BEACH QLD 4567 Telephone: 07 5449 2022 | www.stmsunshine.qld.edu.au

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

Core focus on relationships

K-12 learning community

Flexible learning spaces

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

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

Focus on problem solving

E D U C AT I O N

SUSTAINABILITY BEGINS WITH EARLY LEARNING

Knowing that children will be the future caretakers of our environment, Pacific Lutheran College has embedded an impressive sustainability program throughout their Early Learning Centre… and with great success.

ducators at Pacific Lutheran Early Learning Centre believe that learning about sustainability starts with everyday practice. “Babies and toddlers can begin by watching adults model these behaviours, and they may learn through song or rhyme as educators verbalise what they are doing,” says Sue Zweck, Head of Teaching and Learning (K–5) Pacific Lutheran College. “Once children reach three years old, they can begin to reason why practices are needed and to understand the impact that their actions have on the planet.” To achieve this, Pacific Lutheran College starts their students’ environmental learning early, embedding sustainable practices in the children’s daily routine and throughout their day-to-day activities at their Early Learning 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

Centre. These practices include: • Using recyclable materials where possible. • Encouraging children to use half-flush on the toilets. • Encouraging children to turn the water off when they have washed their hands. • Encouraging children to recycle paper and rubbish within their rooms, at home and when in the wider community. • Talking with children about electricity and encouraging them to turn off lights. • Educating children in the natural decomposition cycle through exposure and participation in worm farms and composting food scraps. • Educating children and having them participate in ‘garden to plate’ activities. • Educating children in how to care for pets

and letting them actively participate in caring for the Centre pet. • Educating children on caring for plants and waterways. • Upcycling furniture. Sustainability can be seen beyond the classroom too. “We grow our own herbs, pawpaw, apples, bananas, passionfruit, strawberries in winter and cherry tomatoes in summer, which we eat for our afternoon tea,” explains Sue. “The garden is watered with recycled water from our water tank, and we use sustainable cups and plates for the children’s meals.” The Centre has also found that the little things make a significant difference. “We’ve halved our use of paper towel, simply by using recyclable cloths to wipe down J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

E D U C AT I O N WE ARE COMMITTED TO PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT TO ENSURE A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR OUR CHILDREN.”

SIMPLE THINGS TO DO AT HOME • Role model sustainability through recycling, water conservation, electricity usage.

surfaces,” says Sue. This program extends to teaching the children for their own future, involving them in every aspect of Centre life. “Our little students love being able to help! In our Early Learning Centre, all the everyday jobs that need doing are done with the children – unpacking the dishwasher, wiping chairs, organising plates,” says Sue. “It’s lovely to involve them, and important that these routines are a natural part of each day for when they are older.” Taking it one step further, Pacific Lutheran’s Early Learning Centre also encourages the families to become involved. “Our wider community is encouraged to adopt sustainable practices and share ideas, as a commitment to our children and their future,” continues Sue. “This could be things such as recycling and reusing materials in the home, using environmentally-safe products, reinforcing the Centre’s practices of turning off taps and lights, and participating in Centre activities and events relating to conservation.” Later this year, the Early Learning Centre hopes to introduce a native non-stinging bee hive, so the children can explore bee keeping and understand pollination. “The bee hive is something we are working on at the moment,” says Sue. “It will provide such a lovely investigation for the children, and they will even be able to taste the honey along with their fruits from the garden for afternoon tea!” “We are committed to protecting our environment to ensure a sustainable future for our children,” Sue says, “and through continuous improvement we strive to be better tomorrow than we are today.”

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

• Promote a healthy mindset through healthy eating and gardening. • Use natural resources where possible, such as drying washing outdoors in the sun. • Assist children in developing an understanding and respect for the environment and encourage critical thinking. • Use environmentally friendly products whenever possible. • Use recyclable items for arts and crafts or bring into the ELC. • Recycle water from water bottles and water play into the garden. • Set up a worm farm. • Plan excursions and projects focused on sustainable practices and native wildlife. MRS SUE ZWECK IS PACIFIC LUTHERAN COLLEGE HEAD OF T E AC H I N G A N D L E A R N I N G K–5. Pacific Lutheran College is a coeducational Kindergarten to Year 12 independent private school of the Lutheran Church of Australia, serving the Caloundra, Kawana and Hinterland communities on the Sunshine Coast. The Pacific Lutheran Early Learning Centre is co-located on site.

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

EUDLO STATE SCHOOL

M E M O R I A L PA R K COMMUNITY KINDERGARTEN

We are closer than you think!

Just 10 minutes from Woombye, Palmwoods, Chevallum, Forest Glen, Glenview, Mooloolah

NOW ENROL LING! Come vi sit Prep thro us! ugh Year 6

Small School, Smart Choice Make the change eudloss.eq.edu.au | (07) 5458 0333 | 2 Highlands Rd, Eudlo

OPEN DAY

S A T U R D AY 7 S E P T E M B E R 10 A M - 12 P M

Come along and see our amazing space, meet our wonderful teachers, and experience the fabulous community at Memorial Park Kindergar ten.

•A stimulating and inclusive learning environment •Our diverse team of experienced, dedicated and nurturing educators who actively promote a strong sense of community •Many wonderful childhood memories are made here! 19 S E C O N D A V E N U E , M A R O O C H Y D O R E | ( 0 7 ) 5 4 4 3 16 61 M E M O R I A L PA R K K I N D Y. C O M . A U

Their spirit. Your love. Our encouragement. Preparing your little one so they can embrace life’s adventures.

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

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

E D U C AT I O N

RAISING KIDS THAT CARE

uilt on the grounds of an old pineapple farm, Nambour Christian College has always had its roots in agriculture. For 30 years, the College community has acted as stewards of the land, teaching students the importance of quality food and farming, and imparting the greater life lessons that caring for animals and the environment offers. Because of this, over time, the College farm and Agricultural Science program has grown to become one of the most respected on the Sunshine Coast. “Our fully functioning farm has gradually expanded to now take up most of the land that the school buildings don’t take up!” says Phil Rienecker, Head of Agricultural Science at Nambour Christian College. “With animals, veggies, fruit and more, it’s not only a place for education but also a place of respite; where children can come to connect with nature and animals.” And it’s this flourishing farm that provides the base for the College’s many agricultural programs. In Years 7 and 8, the College runs a compulsory elective rotation system, in which every student takes part in a six-week block of Agricultural Science. “In Year 7 we teach students all the stages of the veggie growing cycle: the basics of soil care, and how to dig, plant, grow and harvest their own crops,” Mr Rienecker explains. “They might plant broccoli one week, then the following week they might harvest some corn that a previous rotation planted.” In Year 8, the students are given the important responsibility of looking after the chickens. “We have 20 laying chickens that are given plenty of space to roam at the farm,” Phil says. “Students learn how to look after them and what to feed them.” K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Offering a more organic style of learning, Agricultural Science at Nambour Christian College goes beyond the classroom to shape a generation of kids that genuinely care for the land. Students in Year 8 also learn the value of composting, returning the goodness of any food scraps to the soil. “We look at how we can all be part of the global warming solution by efficiently composting food scraps, rather than those scraps ending up in landfill,” Phil continues. “Many students take their new-found skills home to start their own compost and veggie patches.” In Year 9, Agricultural Science becomes an elective subject and students challenge themselves with more in-depth projects. “A very popular Year 9 project is one in which students lease an 8m square garden to grow their own crop,” Phil says. “They each give me $20 to cover the lease of the land, seeds, fertiliser and other resources needed. They then research, plan the crop, plant, maintain, harvest and sell their crop, and they get to keep any money they make. It’s not uncommon for students to realise a 300

per cent profit on their original investment!” As students progress through the program, the projects become increasingly involved. “Year 11 is currently doing a major assignment on horse nutrition and how to manage small acreage pastures on the Sunshine Coast,” says Phil. “Many people don’t realise that not all pasture grasses are healthy for horses, and there are a few species on the Sunshine Coast that are becoming more prevalent on small acreage blocks that can make horses quite sick.” Though Agricultural Science is a subject predominantly for Years 7–12, the Prep, Kindergarten and Junior students (Years 1 to 6) are also regular visitors to the farm. “The younger students might come to the farm as part of their class time to chat to Farmer Barry, to see the lettuces and veggies, feed the chickens, or simply use the farm to add another layer to their classroom studies.” J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

E D U C AT I O N

BEYOND THE PADDOCK responsibility of animal care; to know what it eats, and what the signs As well as the direct skills that Agricultural Science imparts, regular are if it’s not well. If I can kick kids off on that journey, I’ve set them exposure to farming and animals brings a wealth of other skills. up with some lifelong skills to be responsible and compassionate “The projects the students get involved in teach skills that go far owners of animals.” beyond the basics of agriculture,” Phil says. “They are exposed to business skills as they learn to sell crops, Maths as they calculate, LESSONS FOR THE FUTURE weigh and measure, Science as they test and hypothesise, and English Though Agricultural Science might feel quite far removed from as they discuss and communicate.” everyday urban life it is surprisingly relevant to everyone’s day. “We But beyond that, there are bigger life lessons being acquired. “The come into contact with agriculture every day,” explains Mr Rienecker. farming cycle is the perfect example of patience and delayed “The clothes you wear, the coffee you drink, the food on your table, gratification. You can’t have it all now… you have to your timber deck – these things are all grown and work at things before you harvest a reward,” continues harvested for you.” Mr Rienecker. “They also get tremendous satisfaction Because of this demand, agriculture makes up a from the work because they get to see tangible results: significant percentage of today’s workforce in Australia. ‘I planted that broccoli, I mulched those citrus trees’, ‘I “Agriculture today is highly scientific and a very trained that horse’. They quickly find that working in viable career path,” explains Phil. “Thanks to the Nambour Christian College the garden isn’t easy – it takes effort and perseverance technology boom it’s much more complex than you has 18 miniature horses, 13 – but when they look at it in 6 or 12 weeks’ time and might think! It’s a high-tech profession – from using of which are in their show team. As an extra-curricular harvest, it’s a genuine feeling of pride and drones to scan fields and state-of-the-art irrigation option, students can join accomplishment.” systems through to research trials and genetics of the show team where they breeding veggies. We need smart people to look after prepare and train the horses RECONNECTING WITH NATURE the land, if we don’t look after the soil then the planet to exhibit at a series of Due to increased urbanisation over recent years, many is in a mess.” shows and events. children are no longer growing up with access to a But most of all, the program is about establishing a natural environment. This disconnect from nature genuine love for the land that kids can take through to means that caring for animals and the environment is something that adulthood. “Agricultural Science students are always elbow-deep in needs to be taught to kids, and Nambour Christian College’s farm hands-on learning; they get to go outside and discover a real freedom plays a large part in this for their students. from the classroom,” says Phil. “And they quickly discover how much “Animals depend on us for food, water, and care, and these are all fun it can be!” skills that need to be learnt,” says Mr Rienecker. “Thanks to the farm To find out more, visit NCC on Instagram: @nccberakahfarm, or head to on-site, we have the opportunity to teach all of our students the their website: ncc.qld.edu.au

Did you know?

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

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

Flinders

Educating for Excellence in Learning and Life

A strong start at Flinders helps develop students as confident, capable and engaged learners. Come and discover how our Primary School - through rigorous and responsive academic programs, rich and diverse sporting and cultural opportunities, and with a focus on developing each studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s character - educates for excellence in learning and life. For more information and to book a personalised tour, visit www.mfac.edu.au Stringybark Road, Buderim | 07 5477 3260 |

find us on

NATURE PLAY SPACES AND LANDSCAPING

LET NATURE PAVE THE WAY! GDL Nature PlaySpaces creates custom nature inspired play spaces and landscaping. We work closely with you and gain inspiration from the children’s ideas to design the best possible solution to your space and budget to bring your concept to life. GDL Nature PlaySpaces caters for early learning centres, schools and public spaces.

Request a consultation

GDL

Our nature inspired play spaces and landscaping: • incorporate natural materials and elements such as water, sound, movement and balance • encourage unstructured, adventurous open ended play, exploration and experimentation in a natural outdoor setting • develop physical awareness along with fine and gross motor skills • build confidence • enhance the imagination and inspire self-designed play, creativity, learning and socialising

Nature PlaySpaces

0410 863 756 • info@gdlandscaping.com.au • www.gdlnatureplayspaces.com.au

PROFILE With a proven record of academic excellence, we chat to Stuart Meade, Principal at Matthew Flinders Anglican College, to find out more about life at this leading Sunshine Coast College.

STUART MEADE Principal, Matthew Flinders Anglican College mfac.edu.au

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE PHILOSOPHY OF FLINDERS? Flinders’ role is to educate for excellence in academics while developing and nurturing the young hearts and minds entrusted to it. Our vision is for all our students to become empowered citizens with the desire and skills to make a positive contribution in the wider world. WH AT M A KE S T H E F L I N D E R S EXPERIENCE DIFFERENT FROM OTHER SCHOOLS? There is a very positive and supportive culture here at Flinders. Throughout the College, there is great mutual respect between staff and students, which leads to high levels of engagement, support and effort, and underpins our successes. Parents are also welcomed into the Flinders community and the contributions made by all parties are valued highly. Flinders’ core values are Respect, Integrity, Courage and Compassion and these are woven into daily practices throughout the College. We aim for our graduates to be good citizens and to know their place in the wider world and their responsibilities to it. I N T O D AY ’ S W O R L D , W H A T S K I L L S DO YOU FEEL ARE ESSENTIAL F O R C H I L D R E N T O T A K E A W AY FROM SCHOOL? As a College, we believe it is important to cultivate in each student a love of learning, a spirit to achieve mastery and personal best, and the character, integrity and qualities of leadership to shape our world. W H AT D O YO U E N J OY M O S T A B O U T Y O U R R O L E A S P R I N C I PA L ? I enjoy the daily interactions with students. Our students are overwhelmingly positive, engaging and friendly. WH AT D O YO U L E A S T E N J OY A B O U T B E I N G P R I N C I PA L? The level of bureaucracy, which now lands on my desk, takes me away from the thing that I enjoy most – see above! K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

MEET THE PRINCIPAL WH AT D O YOU L I KE TO D O IN YO U R S PA R E T I M E? I read a lot, mainly books and articles associated with my job. I love the outdoors so any time I get to walk along the beach with our dogs or simply relax with family and friends is enjoyable. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT AS P R I N C I PA L O F T H E S C H O O L? There are many moments when students achieve beyond expectations, which confirm that our teachers are making a positive difference. I am very proud of that. I also take reflected pride in the moments when teams or groups perform well and know their efforts are worthwhile. CAN YOU TELL US SOMETHING A B O U T T H E S C H O O L T H AT PEOPLE MIGHT NOT KNOW? This year we will start major building works as part of our five-year Master Plan to provide new agile, contemporary learning spaces equipped with modern technology that enable our students to learn 21st century skills like creativity,

collaboration and innovation. We are also looking forward to celebrating our College’s 30-year anniversary in 2020. CAN YOU TELL US SOMETHING A B O U T YO U R S E L F T H AT P E O P L E MIGHT NOT KNOW? I would love to have a ‘College dog’ on campus each day to bring comfort and joy to the students... I am working on it! WH AT D E F I N E S A F L I N D E R S STUDENT? Students at Flinders have a wonderful zest for life. They are each striving, in their respective fields, to explore their potential and to embrace the many academic, sporting, arts, music and community-service opportunities available to them through our College community. Our hope is that all our students will be people of courage, respect, compassion and integrity who demonstrate confidence, persistence and resilience in this fast-changing and information-rich world. CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE SCHOOL IN THREE WORDS… Compassionate, dynamic and respectful. J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

PROFILE

BUDERIM COMMUNITY KINDERGARTEN

hough the buildings might have changed since Buderim Community Kindergarten opened its doors 45 years ago, community is still at the heart of everything they do. In the late 1960s, Mrs Faye Stapleton was among those who set up life with her family in Buderim. With nowhere for her to take her young child, she helped form a playgroup that would become the Buderim Community Kindergarten. With plenty of hard work from the local community, Buderim Community Kindergarten and Preschool opened the doors of its own premises in 1973.

What is a Community Kindergarten? A Community Kindergarten is 100 per cent owned and managed by its community. “Our Kindergarten is a not-for profit organisation that relies heavily on the support of committee members, families and the support of our community,” said teacher Wendy Veale. “The continued success of the Kindy is a testimony to the vision and hard work of all the families, local community and staff who have been involved with over the years!”

45 years young!

Yet, surprisingly little has changed at the ‘Gratitude Plate’,” explained Wendy. “The small and intimate Kindy over the decades. Plate, presented with biscuits or fruit (or “The buildings and yard have gradually whatever else you can make!), is given in been updated but the Kindergarten has gratitude for the work you do for our always recognised that the early years of community and must be handed on to education are the foundation for future someone you feel worthy.” success,” Wendy said. It is with this approach The plate’s first recipient was fireman in mind that the centre remains as a safe and Chris, who helped with an accident nurturing environment for at Burpengary. children to learn and grow “Chris asked us to teach the WHAT THE through play. children to hold an adults hand KIDS SAY… “We believe that early in the car park or when crossing childhood is a fundamentally the road,” Wendy said. “He came WHAT MAKES YOU important and special time in to Kindy to help build our new HAPPY AT KINDY? a child’s life,” Wendy said. “We Aboriginal Garden and the The two Kindy chooks value diversity and acknowledge children made biscuits for Painting the important role that families, the plate.” Puzzles staff and the wider community A few weeks later, Buderim The sandpit contribute in supporting every Kindy received a thank you from Climbing The Fairy Garden child’s individual growth and the Wishlist team who had the Water play development.” plate passed on to them with Doing yoga some delicious brownies. “The A community within Singing songs volunteers at the Sunshine Coast a community Playing games Health service enjoyed them with My friends Being owned by the community, their lunch. We look forward with Fruit trees in the the Kindy believes in also giving great anticipation to following backyard back to the community. the journey of our Gratitude Visitors “In April this year, we started a Plate in the community.”

BUDERIM COMMUNITY KINDERGARTEN OFFERS A 5-DAY FORTNIGHT PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN AGED 3½ TO 4½ YEARS OLD W: BUDERIMKINDY.COM.AU / P: (07) 5445 1952 / FB: @BUDERIMCOMMUNITYKINDERGARTEN

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

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

SKATE, SCOOTER, SLIDE OR RIDE AT AURA! Keeping the kids active and entertained is childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play at Aura. There are 7 amazing parks and playgrounds to choose from, all connected by a network of bike paths. Make a day of it and explore our park network with our free electric bike hire. Visit our website to download our Parks & Playgrounds map and get exploring!

FREE ELECTRIC BIKE HIRE

Free baby and toddler programs Grandparents and extended families are great for babies and early learners. They have time to talk, sing, play and read with toddlers, giving them vital early language and literacy experiences. When adults talk directly, face to face, with young children, they are creating vital brain connections to make later learning easier. Noosa Library Service, in collaboration with the state-wide First 5 Forever program, holds regular baby and toddler programs during term time, to offer tips and ideas for parents and carers.

READING, WRITING AND SPELLING TUTORING FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES Babes in Arms (for babies up to 12 months) Wriggle, Giggle, Read (for toddlers up to 3 years) Storytime (for pre-schoolers)

• Free 1 hour literacy skills assessment • Lessons tailored to individual student needs and goals • QLD Teacher Registration • Based in Caloundra • From Prep to adults • Current blue card • Accredited tutor • 10 years experience

Check library website for details

www.libraries.noosa.qld.gov.au

CALL TINA ON 0410 634 969 | READYFORREADING.COM.AU

ENROLMENTS FILLING FAST! CALL NOW 07 5322 5247

Sanctuary Buderim

Now Open!

Enrol now to secure your child’s LEARNIN

DV G A

ENTURE

We truly believe there needs to be a holistic approach to early learning. Call � to ﬁnd out more about our STEAM program and music, sports, yoga and dance programs, which � included for all children.

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

Growing children through COMMUNITY AND CONNECTIONS

hey say: ‘it takes a village to raise a child’, and in today’s busy world this has never been truer. One Sunshine Coast early learning centre is placing this motto at the centre of their philosophy, believing that it’s through relationships and community engagement that children truly grow. “Community involvement produces longterm benefits to children’s lives and gives them a sense of belonging and is critical to building a strong sense of identity,” says Natasha Sullivan, Centre Director of Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure Buderim. “And it’s through these relationships that children have the opportunity to grow emotionally, intellectually and physically.” To achieve this, Sanctuary Buderim is forming some beautiful and amazing strong connections within the local community. “The community visits us and we visit the community,” explains Natasha. “In addition to weekly yoga, music, dance and sporting programs, Sanctuary children have the opportunity to engage with a huge range of community excursions and incursions: adopt-a-cop, fire brigade visits, Auslan sign language, connect with and learn from indigenous elders, visit local aged care facilities, visit the library, go to the supermarket or the local shops, and

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

many more enriching experiences.” “We are extremely proud to support a range of community partnerships and are passionate about giving back. We believe the success of a community comes from supporting each other.” These relationships are not only being built in the wider the community, but also within the Centre. “Strong partnerships with families are key to ensuring there is a connection with each child’s home life experiences, as well as families extending on children’s learning and development experiences when they are at home,” says Natasha. “By building these relationships with families, a better understanding of each child’s and family’s needs are met and we can work collaboratively and in harmony.” To assist in this, Sanctuary Buderim offers parent evenings connecting with health professionals and more to support our families in their parenting role. “As a centre, we continue to grow and build a strong team of educators along with our growing Sanctuary family of children and families,” Natasha says. For more information on Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure Buderim, contact (07) 5322 5247 or visit sanctuarylearning.com.au

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

VOICES ON THE COAST 2019 THE HIGHLIGHTS FOR PRIMARY KIDS

There’s a jam-packed program of workshops at youth literature festival Voices on the Coast this year. Here’s our top picks of workshops for primary kids, that are sure to inspire every little writer and reader.

D AV E H A C K E T T

Dave will be entertaining kids with cartooning workshops. His talks always enthral everyone who attends, leaving kids buzzing with enthusiasm.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A beloved cartoonist, children’s author and television personality, Dave has regularly appeared on too many TV shows to mention and has taught his ‘No-Rules’ brand of cartooning for 20 years to over 250,000 children in schools, libraries and festivals all over the world. The author and illustrator of 17 picture books, cartooning books, and novels for all ages, Dave is currently working on his first graphic novel (and, you know, seven other books).

THALIA KALKIPSAKIS

Thalia will be chatting about two topics at this year’s festival. Time Travel: Fact, Fiction and Fun. Dive into the mind-bending fun of time travel as Thalia talks about her inspiration behind the Lifespan of Starlight trilogy. Find out why we all live a split second in the past and why looking up at the stars means you’re looking backwards in time. For students from Years 3 to Year 9. Get it right from the start. Picking the right point in the action to begin a piece of fiction can feed tension throughout the rest of your story. Learn the ingredients that will set up a tight plot right from the beginning, then apply those concepts to your story as a whole.

MARK GREENWOOD

Mark will be tackling all realms of history as he brings stories alive for primary school students.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

FRANÉ LESSAC

Frané will be holding workshops on how to create your own picture book. All you need to start with is imagination! Walk in the footsteps of ANZAC animal legends, and go around the world in 45 minutes with talks about cultures and stories from across the globe.

Mark Greenwood is a history hunter. His awardwinning books, include Jandamarra and Boomerang and Bat, illustrated by Terry Denton. Mark often teams with his wife, illustrator Frané Lessac, to produce titles such as Ned Kelly & The Green Sash, The Legend of Moondyne Joe and Simpson and His Donkey. His recent books include the chapter book series, History Mysteries, and The Happiness Box. This year Mark will publish two new picture books: Moonwalkers, illustrated by Terry Denton and The Book of Stone, illustrated by Coral Tulloch. www.markgreenwood.com.au

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Thalia Kalkipsakis is a writer and editor from Victoria who is fascinated by the way that humans use imagination to explore and reshape the natural world. She has written over 20 books for children and teenagers, including many in the popular Go Girl! series. Her most recent release is the final instalment of the Lifespan of Starlight trilogy, which follows three teenagers who discover the secret to time travel. www.thaliakalkipsakis.com

For full details and tickets visit www.voicesonthecoast.com.au WHEN: 17–20 July WHERE: University Sunshine Coast (USC), Sippy Downs

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Frané has published over 40 children’s books, including Under the Southern Cross and the highly awarded, We Are Grateful:Ostaliheliga. Frané visits schools, libraries and festivals sharing the process of writing and illustrating books with young people around the world. www.franelessac.com

Voices on the Coast is organised by Immanuel Lutheran College, and presented by ILC & USC

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

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

personal nanny Need a helping hand while you shop? Whether you need to shop, get your hair done or simply enjoy a cup of coffee, Kawana’s complimentary nanny service is here to help. Drop off the kids while you enjoy some ‘me’ time and our professional nanny will do the rest. Visit www.kawanashoppingworld.com.au to book your personal nanny today. *Only available to Mums & Co. members. Bookings essential. Maximum 2 hours of nanny service.

COME JOIN OUR DANCE FAMILY!

Wide range of Dance Classes available for boys and girls aged 2½ years and over

OPEN DAY

• • • • •

Ballet Jazz Tap Hip Hop Acrobatics

• Lyrical/Contemporary • Musical Theatre • Performance teams and private tuition available • Competitive pricing

WEDNESDAY 17 JULY

TWO SESSIONS: 9AM & 12.30PM PREP - YEAR 12

COME SEE & EVER OUR YDAY Please RSVP at www.saac.qld.edu.au or call Claire on (07) 5471 5555 to book a personalised tour. 40 Peregian Springs, Drive Peregian Springs

PREP 2020 enro l n ow NO C AT C H M ENT

LE AR

N • GL A SSER

F LES REE T S R A ON IAL ST LL N S FOR UD EW EN TS !

0411 801144

www.amybeccaridancestudios.com.au

LT S ZO N E ∙ E XC E L L E N T AC A D E M I C R E S U

• E XC E L • E NVIRONMENT • GLOB AL

Instagram: @abdskids FB : Amy Beccari Dance Studios Official Lady Musgrave Drive, Mountain Creek

G NIN R O M am PEN 0:30 1 PREP O 9 G, 8 AU S R U H T

LOCAL

BUILDING AUSTRALIA’S MOST LIVEABLE CITY With plans for over 200km of cycleways, Stockland’s vision for Aura to become Australia’s most liveable city is fast coming to life… right on our doorstep.

With 700 hectares of conservation and park areas, where shall we play first?

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

ver the next 30 years, Aura will become home to around 50,000 people and is planned to include 20,000 new homes, two business parks, 10 sporting grounds, 25 community facilities, 20 education facilities, 700 hectares of conservation/park areas and 200 kilometres of cycle ways and walking paths. Several families a week are already moving to Baringa, Aura’s first suburb, and with the impressive community facilities in store for families, it’s easy to see why. “Families are an integral part of our communities,” says Josh Sondergeld, Project Director at Stockland. “They help lay the foundations for a strong, connected community containing a diverse mix of buyers of all ages and backgrounds.” To deliver on its vision of being Australia’s most liveable city, every home within Aura will be located within 400 metres of a park, providing spaces for families to gather, picnic and play as well as connect with other residents. “All residents will also be able to easily access Aura’s Veloway and cycling paths, which will form part of an exciting national city showcase of cycling infrastructure encouraging families to use bicycles as a safe, environmentally form of travel,” Josh explains. And the family-friendly focus doesn’t stop there. Aura’s first childcare centre, an innovative $3.7 million centre with a STEM-

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

LOCAL focused approach to early learning and operated by Goodstart Early Learning, opened at Baringa in January. The centre is adjacent to and complements the Baringa State Primary School which also has a strong STEM focus and is expected to eventually educate up to 1,100 students.

FAMILY FRIENDLY LIVING All families know that the key to successful shopping is making it kid friendly. Stockland’s vision for Aura’s commercial space is to create one of the best neighbourhood shopping centres in the state. “The retail hub will offer customers an outstanding shopping destination with everything a family needs at their doorstep,” says Josh. Aura’s first retail hub, the Stockland Baringa Shopping Centre, is nearing completion and on opening will feature a full-line Supa IGA, specialty retailers, approximately 300 car spaces, commercial offices and the family-friendly Baringa Tavern. Further stages scheduled to open in 2020 will include a proposed swim school and medical centre. “Within easy access of homes, the shopping centre is planned to open later this year and will bring the suburb of Baringa together by complementing other key

family-oriented elements of the Baringa Pedal Park, the first park created at Community Hub,” explains Josh. “These Baringa, has been specifically designed as a include Baringa State Primary School, ‘learn-to-ride’ facility for children. It features Goodstart Early Learning two circular bike tracks – a Centre, sports fields, skate 134-metre beginners’ track and scooter park, civic square, with road traffic signs and a “What Council’s new Community tunnel, and a 145-metre track Centre.” with ramps to test the skills of makes these Construction is also well more advanced riders. recreational underway on the $6.5 million The 6,000 square metre spaces different McArthur Park opened in Baringa Tavern. Located on the corner of Aura Boulevard December and is a natureis the scope and Edwards Terrace themed recreational space of their overlooking the civic square focused on climbing and and boardwalk, this is due to adventure play suitable for imaginative open in late 2019. children aged 6 to 12. design.” “Families will be well The 5,000 square metre catered for at the Tavern,” Burnet Park has been says Josh. “There is an designed for children aged up extensive kids’ zone planned, as well as a to 6 years and incorporates facilities for family lounge area, and a woodfire pizza exploring and scrambling play including kitchen.” swings, slides, a climbing wall with ropes, bridges and sand play. LET’S PLAY! Baringa also features a stunning treehouse Stockland is renowned for its innovative adventure playground next to Georgie Cafe, parks and playgrounds. so parents can enjoy a coffee and range of “What makes these recreational spaces healthy, fresh food while keeping a close eye different is the scope of their imaginative on their children at play. design,” Josh says. The four-hectare Baringa Sports Complex Aura already features seven parks and meanwhile adjoins Baringa State Primary playgrounds, with many more planned. School. What is different in this case is that it has been designed as a co-share facility to allow the entire community, including the school, to use the space.

WHAT’S AROUND THE CORNER?

All residents will be within easy access of Aura’s Veloway, cycling paths and play parks.

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

Construction is already well underway on Aura’s next suburb, Aura Central. “This will be the future heart of the city featuring the City Centre, the People’s Place parkland, a range of education, sporting and entertainment facilities, and a future employment precinct.” A 7.5-hectare sports park featuring four rugby fields, four netball courts, and a clubhouse is also planned to be delivered by the middle of next year in Aura Central, along with two new parks. Because community building is an important part of Stockland’s masterplanning, there are already several community initiatives available for families. “We are proud of our community initiatives, from free fitness programs to community grants, outdoor movie and event nights and support of local charities.” “Aura’s free Ready Steady Go Kids multisports program for children has proven very popular, along with the Live Life Get Active exercise classes on week days and our fivekilometre parkrun every Saturday morning.” 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 ADMISSION

$10 Only erson er p p

Or visit as a day guest and feel like you’re on a holiday!

Café

Ph 5476 6646

now open

• Heated pool & spa • Waterslide • Indoor cinema • Playground • BBQs

Open June to November

Book your Party

www.forestglenresort.com.au

Shop sales and PYO

Ph: 07 5494 5146 Fax: 07 5494 5425 Email: info@strawberryfields.com.au

strawberryfields.com.au

NCC’s education is built on three foundations;

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT, SCHOLARSHIP AND COMMUNITY With impressive facilities across Junior, Middle and Senior Schools, students grow through a diverse learning program and caring environment. We invite you to attend our

PRINCIPAL’S TOUR WED 21 AUGUST - 9:15AM - 10:30AM

to hear Mr Geoff van der Vliet speak about how we provide SECURITY, SUPPORT and SUCCESS for every student. Included is a tour of our facilities followed by morning tea with staff in our cafe.

S E C U R I T Y. S U P P O R T. S U C C E S S .

BOOKINGS ENCOURAGED www.ncc.qld.edu.au

www.ncc.qld.edu.au 2 McKenzie Road, Woombye QLD 4559 | Call us today 5451 3333 | enrolments@ncc.qld.edu.au

! y a l eL t’s p

As the days get colder, the indoor play centre is a sanity saver for many families. Here are some of the Sunshine Coast’s best indoor play spaces for the littlies to burn off some energy this winter.

0– 5 YEAR

OLDS

STORY TIME AND RHYMETIME

Libraries across the region library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au These free weekly sessions provide fun group interactive activities for children under five and their carers. Rhymetime features songs, rhymes and finger plays to promote early literacy and language development for infants up to two years; Storytime features stories, rhymes and songs to enhance language development for children ages two to five years. Watch out for their outdoor Story Seat Bookventures too, where you can join the library for a morning of stories, games and fun at one of their fabulous Story Seats - located in local parks across the Sunshine Coast.

PIPSQUEAK MORNINGS

Kawana Shoppingworld, Kawana kawanashoppingworld.com.au Part of the hugely successful Mums & Co initiative, Pipsqueak Mornings at Kawana Shoppingworld offers fortnightly sessions for play, storytime, special events and exclusive offers. If you can’t make it along to Pipsqueak, the centre also has three play areas: outside ALDI, next to Good 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

Bean in the South Mall and in the Food Court. Their parent rooms are the best too, with microwave, lounges, change tables and parent/child toilets.

MUMS & BUBS MORNING

Noosa Civic noosacivicshopping.com.au Held every Thursday, the Mums & Bubs Mornings at Noosa Civic are the perfect opportunity to catch up with other like-minded mums and caregivers. Enjoy a complimentary coffee from one of the cafes, whilst your little one socialises and plays.

GYMBAROO SUNSHINE COAST

Goodlife Community Centre, Buderim gymbaroosunshinecoast.com.au Gymbaroo offers a range of age-appropriate music and movement classes, from nonmobile babies to school readiness sessions. Kids can crawl, jump, hop, swing, roll, sing and dance their way their way to healthy physical, social, emotional and intellectual development. And most importantly, you can have fun together!

Enjoy a story and fun activities every week at the local library.

6+ YEAR OLDS NOOSA TENPIN BOWLING A N D L A S E R TA G

7/11 Bartlett Street, Noosaville noosatenpin.com.au With tenpin bowling and Laser Tag, as well as arcade games, pool, and air hockey all under one roof, this is a great solution to any rainy day blues. There is also a licensed bar and café meals.

L ASERZONE

3 Main Drive, Warana laserzone.com.au Pew pew pew…! Grab a phaser and get set for some action-packed laser-guided fun! In Laser Tag, players wear a computerised J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

THINGS TO DO

vest and ‘tag’ opponents in an exciting arena in a variety of different game styles. This high-tech sport will keep the most active of kids busy! There are also video and arcade games available to keep you occupied between battles.

There’s indoor fun for all ages at Chipmunks Playland & Cafe.

PL ANET ARCADE

Kawana Shoppingworld & Sunshine Plaza planetarcades.com.au A world of arcade fun all under one roof. Race with Super Mario, shoot basketballs to win prizes, play air hockey, embark on a Jurassic Park adventure and more. It’s bright, noisy, and kids love it!

ADVENTURE EMPIRE

2/2 Park Place, Caloundra adventureempire.com.au Adventure Empire offers a range of indoor climbing and bouldering challenges for every level. Kids can get fit and strong, and challenge themselves with every climb. Rock climbing is a great way for kids to develop hand-eye coordination, gross motor skills and problem-solving skills. Climbs are for suitable for ages 6 and over, however they do also have a Little Monkey Club for ages 4-7. As well as the climbing walls, Adventure Empire offers a great after school and school holiday program. The ‘Adventurism’ program encourages team work, fair play all while having fun and reconnecting kids with the great outdoors.

Adventure Empire has a great range of rock climbing and bouldering walls for kids.

Parents and kids will love mini-golf with a quirky twist at Holey Moley, Maroochydore.

FOR ALL AGES HOLEY MOLEY

Big Top Shopping Centre, Maroochydore holeymoley.com.au Mini-golf meets cocktail bar? Yes indeedy! Though it pulls an adult crowd at night, during the day Holey Moley is a great place to take the kids. Forget windmills and castles, instead putt your way through shark infested waters and pop culture references that will keep both kids and parents entertained. If that’s not enough, Strike Bowling is right next door, and they do an awesome birthday party too!

C H I P M U N K S P L AY L A N D & CAFE

Central, 8 Fairfax St, Sippy Downs chipmunks.com.au Chipmunks has a dedicated under fives play space and then the larger over fives multi-storey playground, ball pool, giant slide and interactive activities. With great coffee and meals available, and no time limit on how long you play, it’s the perfect escape from the wintery days. Kids need socks to play.

SUNSHINE PL AZA

154-164 Horton Parade, Maroochydore sunshineplaza.com The newly refurbished Sunshine Plaza has something for every one! For the littlest ones there are two super-fun indoor play spaces to enjoy, both within easy reach of

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

great coffee. And for the older (and v-e-r-y brave) ones, a high ropes course spanning the river is due to open mid-year, as well as another outdoor play area. They also have three well-equipped Parents Rooms.

THE BIG BOING

24C Innovation Parkway, Birtinya thebigboing.com.au This indoor trampoline centre is a hugely popular spot for kids of all ages. The main area for 6–10 year olds is wall-to-wall bouncing heaven, with 40 interconnecting trampolines, a huge air bag to land in, slam dunking basketball and soccer. For kids over 140cm there is a separate Ninja Warrior Course (bring sports shoes for this activity). For the littler ones there is a dedicated toddlers’ area with foam pit for those under 110cm and another soft play area for those under 140cm tall. Don’t forget your grip socks, or you can buy them there. 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

Chipmunks

Playland & Café

The perfect place to party & play all day! Entry is for unlimited playtime

At Adventure Empire, our specialty is youth development. The Adventure Empire facility is fully air conditioned and our experienced staff is there to train and ensure that all participants have a great time. Instead of screen time, bring your children for a fun time on our indoor climbing and bouldering walls.

Under 1yr old and Adults Free to enter Free Membership Program Themed Birthday Parties We also offer a full café with tasty food and beverage treats

Climbing: •Builds self confidence •Improves communication •Provides a full body work out for physical and mental fitness Kids have the best Birthday Parties with Adventure Empire too!

Come play today! Chipmunks Sunshine Coast 8 Fairfax St,Sippy Downs Q,

For opening times check Facebook

2/2 Park Place, Caloundra adventureempire.com.au | (07) 5391 1722 Call 0474 501 977 for bookings or email admin@adventureempire.com.au

Phone: 07 5445 2183

www.chipmunks.com.au

Exclusive 15%OFF

OPEN 7 DAYS

Shop 2, 16 Sunshine Beach Road Noosa Heads

WOODEN TOYS ECO TOYS EDUCATIONAL TOYS GAMES & PUZZLES BEAUTIFUL GIFTS DIY ART & CRAFT KITS

ONLINE and IN STORE for Use code Kids on the Coast readers KOTC15

FINDING LITERACY IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

We love a little sneaky early literacy, and winter is the perfect time to get outdoors and learn!

s there any time of year more glorious than the Sunny Coast winter? Boasting clear blue skies and fresh-as-a-daisy days, it’s the perfect time of year to get off the couch and enjoying the outdoors. Luckily, the bush and beach also offer the ideal classroom for a little sneaky early literacy, suggests Karen Gawen, Young People’s Services Supervisor from Sunshine Coast Council. Involving little ones in early literacy activities is an essential part of every day,” Karen explains. “The literacy skills learnt in the first five years of a child’s life provide a critical foundation for their literacy outcomes in later in life.” The Australian Early Development Census data for 2012 shows that 26.2 per cent of Queensland children are developmentally vulnerable or at risk on one or more developmental domains – including language and cognitive skills. Queensland ranks sixth behind the other states. Studies have found that children who have plenty of opportunities to talk with

engaged adults each day are less likely to experience difficulty with literacy when they reach school. So, now is the time to find any excuse to chat with your little one! Here are some great ways to sprinkle some literacy into your outdoor days.

Count the rungs on the monkey bars, have timed races around the trees. Cook a picnic at home to take to the park, and have the kids help reading the recipes.

AT THE BEACH

A little fresh air can put a fun spin on anything, and you don’t need to go far! Go for a family bike ride together, stopping along the way to see what you can find. Head out in the car, read signs, sing songs, listen to audio books. Collect tourist pamphlets or maps and have the children plot the visit as you go. After visiting somewhere, get the children to write a story or draw a picture of the best thing that happened that day, and chat chat chat about what you see and do. “Every conversation they take part in and every new word they hear is making a positive difference to a child’s literacy skills,” says Karen. “And more importantly, any time spent having fun with you will also be a fabulous addition into their happy memory banks.”

The water might be too cold for a swim, but the beach offers the perfect canvas for some imaginative sandy fun! Build sandcastles and make up stories about what you have created, play giant Pictionary or Hangman, or Noughts & Crosses in the sand. Look for shells and pebbles, or explore the rock pools and chat about what you find.

AT THE PARK

Take a book and a blanket to the park and share a story under the shade of a tree. Or gaze at the sky and see what shapes you can spot in the clouds. Collect twigs, leaves and bark to take home to create art or a collage about the trip to the park.

OUT AND ABOUT

FOR MORE FUN EARLY LITERACY IDEAS HEAD INTO YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY OR VISIT LIBRARY.SUNSHINECOAST.QLD.GOV.AU

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

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

Sunshine Coast Libraries

Talk, read, sing and play with your child every day The first 5 years are forever. Up to 90 per cent of a child’s brain development happens in the first 5 years. From birth, every time a child speaks, listens, reads or plays they grow and develop.

92994 05/19

You are the first and most important teacher your child will ever have. Talk, read, sing, play with your child any time, any place Attend free weekly Rhymetime or Storytime sessions at your local library Join your library and borrow books, toys, CD’s, DVD’s and games for free.

First 5 Forever is a Queensland State Government funded initiative.

AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO TUTORING

here are many reasons a child might need maths and “With high school students, we work very closely with their term English tutoring – the student might be struggling to keep outlines,” says Rochelle. “For example, in English for the senior up, or bored and needs extension. Rochelle Callard, owner students we look at essay writing; expository, persuasive, and and tutor at NumberWorks‘nWords in Sippy Downs, has analytical. These skills can be transferred to many of their other been a teacher, Deputy and Principal, and has seen first-hand how subjects and assignments and gives them a foundation they feel difficult it can be to cater for everyone’s needs in the classroom. In the confident using.” hope of making a difference, she recently left her teaching career to A key to the success of the program is that it is fun and engaging. open the tutoring centre. This, combined with in-built ‘brain breaks’, means Designed for students from Prep to Year 10, the students are able to focus for their whole session and innovative NumberWorks‘nWords maths and English they get through a lot of work. It’s a wonderful tuition program has been developed over 35 years and is “There’s lots of praise, lots of fun and lots of learning culture now widely used in New Zealand, the UK and Singapore. certificates,” Rochelle says. “When one person in the All Australian capital cities have centres, but Sippy centre achieves a goal, the whole centre claps and where everyone Downs is the first on the Sunshine Coast. celebrates. It’s a wonderful learning culture where thrives and is Many people who come to Rochelle have tried everyone thrives and is successful.” successful. tutoring before – such as one-on-one in the home – and “Seeing your child struggle at school is heartbreaking,” haven’t had much success. continues Rochelle. “Now I chat to parents whose child “Because the NumberWorks‘nWords program is so was struggling and they are amazed! One recently said: engaging and structured, students make far more progress here than ‘I don’t know what you are doing, but she’d rather come to you and other methods,” explains Rochelle. do maths than go to hockey!’” First, NumberWorks’nWords offer a free assessment which gives “There’s so many of those ‘light bulb’ moments when students the student an opportunity to work with the tutors and Rochelle realise, they can do it!” says Rochelle. “NumbersWorks’nWords is such a chance to show the parent the centre, how they operate, answer a different style of tutoring that parents need to come in, experience any questions, as well as give feedback on the assessment. From the centre and see it in action for themselves.” there Rochelle sets an individual program, aligned to the Australian To find out more about the NumbersWorks’nWords program visit Curriculum with structured, achievable goals. numberworksnwords.com/au or call (07) 5445 4412.

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

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

Love.

Your child will be loved, valued and respected by a mix of mature and younger carers all of whom have a genuine love of early learning.

Learning. Our Little Learners have direct access to the many facilities of big school! Our extensive library, sporting facilities, computer lab and veggie patch to name a few.

Adventure. Pioneered by Suncoast Little Learners, Bush Kindy is an innovative program where our Little Learners explore the bush, squelch in the mud, chase lizards, build cubbie houses and create pretend fireplaces.

Spots available now in P re-kindy Enquiries: Janelle Appo on 5451 3600 or Krystle Cullen on 5451 3648

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

suncoastlittlelearners.com.au

WELLBEING

Does your pre-schooler have a phobia? THIS MAY HELP!

s your child excessively afraid of certain situations or objects, or avoid certain places or doing certain things because of their fear? Your child may be experiencing a specific phobia and Griffith University has a free program to help! A research team at Griffith University is offering free assessment and treatment for children ages three to five years with a specific phobia. The program, Pre-schoolers Overcoming Phobias (POP!) is part of a nationally funded treatment study of young children with specific phobias. The study is being run by a team of international experts in child anxiety, led by Associate Professor Lara Farrell. “Childhood fears onset early in life, and the longer children live with these fears and phobias, the poorer the long-term prognosis,” Lara explains. “The good news is that phobias can be treated in a very efficient way – through an intensive, one session, cognitive-behavioural treatment. We know this treatment works for adults, as well as youth, but so far, there are no large trials for pre-schoolers – despite the fact that phobias often onset at this age. This study will provide critical new knowledge about whether this treatment works at this very young age, as well as whether the outcomes are durable over time.”

What are the signs that a child has a phobia? All children are fearful of new things at some point. However, a phobia occurs when the level of fear is much higher than usual, when the child actively avoids the stimuli at all costs, and the extreme fearfulness and avoidance persists over time. “Furthermore, the fear and avoidance becomes problematic for the child and/or the family, whereby these fears stop the family being able to do things they previously could,

for example – visiting friends or going to the What’s involved in the POP! program? park,” Lara explains. The Pre-Schoolers Overcoming Phobias Rather than children growing out of (POP!) program is currently examining the a phobia, such as we are led to believe, effectiveness of brief cognitive-behavioural evidence now suggests that phobias in treatment (CBT) for specific phobias in childhood are a powerful marker of risk for children three to five years of age. The study the development of mental health is a randomised controlled trial “Phobias in disorders later in life. (RCT) aiming to learn more about the course of childhood fears childhood are Why do children develop in young children, and involves a powerful phobias? marker of risk for testing a novel, brief intervention There are multiple pathways for for childhood phobias, which has the development a child to develop a phobia, Lara proven effective in older children of mental health and with adults. explains. “It could be exposure to disorders later stressful and traumatic learning Any specific phobia presenting in life.” events, hearing or seeing negative in children aged three to five years information about the phobic old can be explored in the program stimuli (i.e. animal, situation, place), as well (excluding blood/injection/injury phobias). as observing other people (e.g., parents) The POP! program is run from Griffith model fear or avoidance around the stimuli, University’s Gold Coast campus in Southport or a biological predisposition.” and will be recruiting participants until 2022.

F O R F U R T H E R I N F O R M AT I O N A B O U T T H E P R O G R A M , C A L L T H E P O P ! T E A M O N (07) 56 78 8 3 17 O R E M A I L P O P-G C @ G R I F F I T H .E D U. A U

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

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

Caloundra Premium Childcare Centre Are you looking for a Kindergarten where children are viewed as active participants in their development? We have limited spaces available. Contact us today!

Qualified ECT

4 Lomond Crescent Caloundra West

Ph 07 5405 3621 petitjourney.com.au

Take a peek at whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening at

Enquiries: Janelle Appo on 5451 3600 or Krystle Cullen on 5451 3648 Suncoast Christian College, Cnr Schubert & Kiels Mtn Road, Woombye

CLASSES @ DANCEEDGESTUDIOS Dance classes available for students 2 years of age and up. Tap, RAD Ballet, Musical Theatre,Tech Jazz, Acro, Hip Hop, Jazz and Lyrical classes available.

Follow Dance Edge Studios on Facebook & Instagram: @danceedgestudios

info@danceedgestudios.com.au

Caring for women through all stages of their life

Providing services at Buderim Private Hospital, Buderim Suite 18, Building B, Nucleus Medical Suites, 23 Elsa Wilson Drive, Buderim, 4556 Phone 5444 4433 info@drkylieisaacs.com.au â&#x20AC;˘ www.drkylieisaacs.com.au

s e i v o M

REVIEWS

SPIDER-MAN™: FAR FROM HOME

In cinemas 1 July (CTC)

Peter Parker returns in Spider-Man™: Far From Home, the next chapter of the SpiderMan™: Homecoming series! Our friendly neighbourhood Super Hero decides to join his best friends Ned, MJ, and the rest of the gang on a European vacation. However, Peter’s plan to leave super heroics behind after a few weeks are quickly scrapped when he begrudgingly agrees to help Nick Fury uncover the mystery of several elemental creature attacks, creating havoc across the continent.

DISNEY’S “THE LION KING”

In cinemas 15 August (CTC)

Director Jon Favreau’s all-new The Lion King journeys to the African savanna where a future king is born. Simba idolises his father, King Mufasa, and takes to heart his own royal destiny. But not everyone in the kingdom celebrates the new cub’s arrival. The battle for Pride Rock is ravaged with betrayal, ultimately resulting in Simba’s exile. With help from a curious pair of newfound friends, Simba will have to figure out how to take back what is rightfully his.

In this sequel to the heartwarming global hit A Dog’s Purpose, beloved Dog Bailey is living the good life on the Michigan farm of his “boy”, Ethan, and Hannah. He even has a new playmate: Ethan and Hannah’s baby granddaughter CJ. The problem is that CJ’s mom decides to take CJ away. As Bailey’s soul prepares to leave this life for a new one, he makes a promise to Ethan to find CJ and protect her at any cost. Thus begins Bailey’s adventure through multiple lives filled with love, friendship and devotion.

In cinemas 17 July (CTC)

A DOG’S JOURNEY

BOOK YOUR FAMILY SAVER SESSIONS AT BCC AND EVENT CINEMAS AND SAVE AT EVENTCINEMAS.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

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

REVIEWS

s k oo B BOOT 01 SMALL ROBOT BIG ADVENTURE: BOOK 1

by Shane Hegarty RRP $14.99

When toy robot, Boot, wakes up at a scrapyard, it has no idea how it got there and why it isn’t with its owner, Beth. It only has two and a half glitchy memories, but it knows it was loved. With new friends by its side, Boot is determined to find Beth and the gang set off on a dangerous adventure. Boot is a heart-warming, humorous story that will take you by surprise and make you think about the world around you. For ages 8-12.

Apps 60

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

COLOUROOS

by Anna McGregor RRP: $14.99

When three differently coloured groups of kangaroos come together at the same watering hole – red blue and yellow – they aren’t sure what to make each of other at first. But they soon discover that they aren’t so different after all. As the three groups become one, new colours appear, and soon the roos have created a beautiful rainbow! A fun, light-hearted story about the colour spectrum, Colouroos is a beautiful celebration of diversity.

THE ULTIMATE ANIMAL COUNTING BOOK

by Jennifer Cossins RRP $29.99

Go on an expedition through the animal kingdom with this gorgeous animal counting book. Count one to 100 and collect fascinating animal facts along the way. Discover the colour of a zebra’s skin under its stripes, how a tapir uses its nose as a snorkel when it swims, and that cranes are famous for their dancing! Beautifully illustrated with full-colour pictures of animals great and small, The Ultimate Animal Counting Book is a delight to share.

DRAGONBOX BIG NUMBERS

We love the DragonBox suite of apps for an entertaining spin on maths, and Big Numbers is no exception. Dive into the world of the Nooms and learn big numbers, long addition and subtraction! To advance in the game you must think strategically to add and subtract resources and unlock new worlds. Over the course of the game, quantities will get larger and operations will get harder. Use your resources to decorate the Noom houses in their own style. There are six different worlds to explore. For ages 6–9. 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

DO YOU FEEL SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT WITH YOUR BABY BUT CAN’T PUT A FINGER ON IT?

FREE

ballet shoes for ever y ne w enrolment

Babies may be born with muscle and joint problems as a result of their position in the birth canal or from the birth process. Especially babies that have been born via a long delivery or with assistance such as forceps or vacuum extraction. The discomfort from having a sore neck may affect a babies wellbeing. If you were in pain every time you turned one way or opened your mouth, then this could affect many aspects of everyday life.

MONDAY & WEDNESDAY CLASSES NOW AVAILABLE AT CALOUNDRA!

Our chiropractors treating babies have completed 2 years of extra study focusing on treating babies and kids (on top of the 5-year full-time university degree).

 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

Book an appointment with one of our baby and child focused chiropractors. This may be the answer you are looking for!

5491 7743

Our Caloundra practise now offers counselling, psychology and massage CALOUNDRA 85 Bowman Road, Caloundra BUDERIM Shop 3-4 86 Burnett Street, Buderim

Cherubs: Mummy & Me: Kinderballet Tots: Tiny Tappers Babies Jazz & Cheer Kinderballet Kiddies: Kinderballet Next Steps: Kinderballet Aspire: Junior Jazz & Cheer:

16 months–2.5 years 2–3.5 years 3–4 years 3-5 years 3-5 years 4–5 years Prep–Y1 Y2 & Y3 5–9 years

0405 478 909 www.danceempiresunshinecoast.com.au miranda@danceempiresunshinecoast.com.au WARANA, MAROOCHYDORE & PEREGIAN BEACH | CALOUNDRA

Success Starts Early Series Workshop #1

THURSDAY, 1 AUGUST 6:30pm for 7pm - 8pm Flinders Performance Centre Book your place at www.mfac.edu.au/successstartsearly

y l r a E l a i t n e s Developing Eksills at Home Literacy S

ALL PARENTS WELCOME Refreshments will be served FREE EVENT

All parents with children aged 4 to 7 years are invited to join Flinders Head of Primary, Trudi Edwards, along with Head of Junior Primary, Chris Curtain, and Flinders teachers for this one-hour workshop. As a community event, there is no requirement that your child is currently enrolled or will be enrolled at Matthew Flinders Anglican College. Parents will learn how to engage their children in early literacy activities to help develop their confidence and competence to support a flying start to school. Participants will be provided with a booklet, full of ideas and strategies, to take home after the session. Success Starts Early Workshops are an initiative of Matthew Flinders Anglican College | Stringybark Road, Buderim | 07 5477 3200 | www.mfac.edu.au

Step back in time on the MARY VALLEY RATTLER ONE OF OUR FAVOURITE KID-FRIENDLY TRIPS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST IS TO TAKE A TRIP ON THE MARY VALLEY RATTLER. WE CHAT TO MARYLOUISE CARTWRIGHT, GUEST EXPERIENCE ATTENDANT, TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS MUCH-LOVED SLICE OF HISTORY. WHAT IS YOUR ROLE ON THE M A R Y VA L L E Y R AT T L E R ? I am a Guest Experience Attendant on the train. My job is to help you find a seat, keep you safe and tell you interesting facts about the trip. H O W D I D Y O U G E T I N V O LV E D I N VOLUNTEERING ON THE MARY VA L L E Y R AT T L E R ? I live close by and drive past the station every day. I had quite a few ancestors work at the Rattler station and seeing the beautiful station come back to life prompted me to offer my time and be part of its new history.

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

W H Y D O Y O U G I V E U P Y O U R TIME TO VOLUNTEER ON THE ROUTE? Volunteering at the Mary Valley Rattler is one of the best things that I have ever done for myself. I am learning new skills all the time and I really enjoy it. Spending time with the other members of the team and the excited passengers is rewarding and fun. It is not work at all! D O YO U H AV E A FAV O U R I T E TRAIN? Ooooh, yes! Hogwarts Express… but since I haven’t been able to get a ticket on that one,

I would have to say the Brown Bomber (The Rattler Steam Train and Heritage Carriages). It is big, noisy and powerful. W H AT I S YO U R FAV O U R I T E T H I N G ABOUT WORKING ON THE MARY VA L L E Y R AT T L E R ? I love watching the families relax and enjoy their time on the train. Sitting, talking, pointing out the windows and just having a unique experience. WHAT IS THE STORY BEHIND THE ROUTE? The tracks were laid for the Mary Valley 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 LIFE

Gentle on your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skin, the planet, and your wallet.

STRUCKET STRAINER MEETS BUCKET W: strucket.com E: hello@strucket.com

Spawned from a single moment of desperation, Strucket is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first integrated Strainer Bucket with plug, invented by Sunshine Coast mother, Kelly. Just like a normal bucket (but better), the Strucket makes soaking simple and clean. Never fear putting your hand into the residual dirty, unhygienic, toxic mess again. Taking the strain out of soaking!

2 0 19

EST

P: 0499453294 E: info@missmagoos.com.au W: missmagoos.com.au

Eco-friendly and non-toxic pram and car seat cleaning, steam sanitised to kill 99.9% of germs. Book online at happylittlecruisers.com or call 0468 429 761.

â&#x20AC;˘ No toxic chemicals â&#x20AC;˘ No animal testing â&#x20AC;˘ Recyclable packaging â&#x20AC;˘ Supporting children with Down Syndrome â&#x20AC;˘ Happiness guaranteed

HAPPY LITTLE CRUISERS

W: happylittlecruisers.com P: 0468 429 761 A: Maroochydore to Noosa

Natural & Organic Skincare

getting up onto the engine and seeing the big fire in the trains belly? I guess it is different for everyone! Â ANY TIPS FOR MAKING IT A S U P E R-S P E C I A L D AY O U T F O R FAMILIES? If travelling in a large group, be sure to arrive early and let the staff know so they can try to seat you all together. Be prepared to see many different farm animals and wild animals too. Other than that, just be ready for an adventure. No two trips are the same. Â ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH OUR READERS? Even though it is not Hogwarts Express, there is something quite magical about the Mary Valley Rattler. This train is exciting and yet relaxing. Old and yet very new to some. It is a Museum that literally takes everyone on a journey.Â I love it!

There is something quite magical about the Mary Valley Rattler.

Rattler at a time before the farmers of the Valley had trucks. Everything that needed to go to town had to be taken in carts drawn by horses or bullocks. That was very slow and would take two or three days. Once the train line was built it took only two or three hours, which was much, much faster. While most of the original track has been replaced over the years, the line originally dates from 1914. Â WHAT DO YOU FIND KIDS LOVE MOST ABOUT RIDING THE TRAIN? Is it the loud noises of the giant beast? Hissing and whistling. Is it looking out of the old windows and seeing things they have never seen before? Is it the smell of the steam and soot sneaking into each and every carriage? Is it

LITTLE STRAWBERRIES

W: littlestrawberries.com.au IG: @littlestrawberries_au E: frais@littlestrawberries.com.au We sell reusable products that help families reduce their household waste including reusable coffee cups, reusable nursing pads, wet bags, change mats, reusable swimming nappies and modern cloth nappies. All products are available through our online store with a FREE local pick up option.

CLASSIFIEDS WITTACORK FARMSTAY

KATH DICKSON FAMILY DAY CARE

W: wittacork.com.au P: (07) 5494 4369 A: 286 Tesch Rd, Maleny

W: kdfc.com.au/family-day-care P: (07) 5446 7731 A: 21 Ocean Street, Maroochydore Looking for quality, flexible child care that suits your family’s needs? Family day care may be just what you need! Through our established network of fully trained and registered educators across the Sunshine Coast and hinterland region, we offer nurturing care in a small group within a home environment, with full access to your approved child care subsidy.

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

SUNSHINE COAST CHINESE SCHOOL

W: SunshineCoastChinese.com P: 0444 519 526 E: info@SunshineCoastChinese.com A: Mountain Creek State High School

Chinese Classes from Kids to Adults

• Small Sized Classes • Free Trial Lesson • Experienced Native Teachers • Fun, Encouraging and Interactive We are proudly affiliated with Queensland MiaoMiao Chinese School, the member of ESAQ and recorded by the Ministry of Education in Australia

GDL NATURE PLAY SPACES

Welcome all Chinese Language & Culture lovers to experience and explore!

QUEENSLAND AIR MUSEUM

W: qam.com.au P: (07) 5492 5930 A: 7 Pathfinder Drive, Caloundra. Queensland 4551 Looking for somewhere to take the kids, get them away from the small screen and keep them entertained for hours? Queensland Air Museum has more than 80 historically significant aircraft and many other aviation related displays, the best aircraft model shop on the Sunshine Coast, coffee, drinks and ice-creams. It's a great day out for the whole family!

HEALTH NATURALLY CHIROPRACTIC

W: gdlnatureplacespaces.com.au P: 0410 863 756 A: Across the Sunshine Coast

P: (07) 5451 1121 S: @HealthNaturallyChiropractic A: Unit 7, 2-6 Beach Road, Maroochydore

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

Have you even been curious about Chiropractic care for your family? Come and visit us for an Initial consult, Pre-care appointment and Report of findings – FREE – to see if we can help in any way. Give us a call on 07 5451 1121 or visit our office on the corner of Ocean Street and Beach Road. We look forward to seeing you. Regards Sam and Natise.

FUNKY MONKEY BARS

W: funkymonkeybars.com P: 1300 912 198 FB: @funkymonkeybars

Australian-made Funky Monkey Bars are getting kids outdoors on play equipment that’s challenging and fun. Free-standing, height adjustable and modular designs that you customise and accessorise to suit your family, then continue to add to over time. Choose from 16 frames in nine colours and have delivered direct to your door.

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

Exclusive 15% OFF Use code KOTC15

W: rainbowfun.com.au Online and in-store P: 0456 239 966 A: Shop 2, 16 Sunshine Beach Road, Noosa Heads RAINBOW FUN is a leading children’s toy and gift store that stocks a beautiful hand-selected range of some of the best brands in wooden toys, eco-friendly toys, educational toys, games, puzzles, craft activities, imaginative and role play toys from around the globe. There’s something for everyone – from tiny newborns to quirky teens. Visit us in Noosa or shop online!

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

VEGETARIAN EGG TACOS Packed with nutrients and vitamins, these delicious egg tacos are a fun hands-on dinner and an easy way to introduce a little flavour to your meals.

Preparation time: 15 mins Cooking time: 10 mins Serves: 4 INGREDIENTS

6 eggs ½ cup light cooking cream 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small red onion, finely diced ¼ cup finely diced green capsicum 2 small tomatoes, seeds removed, finely diced 8 mini stand ‘n’ stuff taco shells 8 small baby cos lettuce leaves 1 avocado, finely diced ¼ cup light sour cream ¼ cup grated tasty cheese

J U LY / A U G U S T 2019

METHOD

• Break eggs into a bowl. Add cream, salt and white pepper. Set aside. • Heat oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and capsicum and cook for 3 minutes or until softened. Stir through tomato. Add egg mixture and cook for 2 minutes or until beginning to set. Gently stir. Cook for 1 minute and stir again or until egg is just set. • Heat taco shells following packet directions. • Place warmed taco shells onto a platter. Fill with lettuce, egg mixture, diced avocado, sour cream and cheese.

Tip Y O U C A N S WA P O U T T H E TA C O S H E L L S F O R B U R R I T O W R A P S O R S O F T-S H E L L TA C O S . F O R A L I G H T E R L O W E R-C A R B V E R S I O N , S I M P LY S E R V E I N L A R G E COS LETTUCE CUPS.

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

“Education is a natural process carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words, but by experiences in the environment.” Dr Maria Montessori

K–12 Learning Village Book a tour

Freedom within limits An IB World School supporting children to become self-confident, independent thinkers who learn because they are interested in the world and enthusiastic about life. Through self-directed, challenging work and hands-on, highly personalised learning, MIC students develop character and selfesteem in a collaborative, inclusive, small-by-design environment that values respect for self and others, inner peace and finding one’s place in the world.

Secondary College 8 August 2019 Early Years 22 August 2019 Phone 07 5442 3807 Find us at 880-932 Maroochydore Rd Forest Glen Montessori International College

mic.qld.edu.au