Kids on the Coast Magazine | Sunshine Coast - Issue 99. Sept/Oct 2020

ISSUE 99 September/October 2020 SUNSHINE COAST

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOME FOR FINANCIAL GROWTH TEACHING KIDS TO BE MONEY SAVVY TIPS TO GET YOUR FAMILY BUDGET ON TRACK

Discover. Achieve.

Belong.

Immanuel students have high levels of resilience. They are active learners and thrive in a community where they are encouraged to discover their full potential.

3 September 2020 #InspiringLearning #BuildingCommunity #EnrichingLives

WELCOME

T

ime for a confession.

I’m h-o-p-e-l-e-s-s with money.

I try to save, I like to spend, and the thought of putting together a budget makes my head spin. Plus, home learning recently proved how terrible my maths skills are! (Year 6 maths and I are NOT friends!)

With so many Sunny Coast families and small businesses worrying about making ends meet this year, I’ve been reminded that having a financial plan is imperative.

So, dust off your calculator, because this is our Family Finances issue!

We’ve called in the experts from Your First Home Co. to explain the many ways families can buy their first home and grow their financial security through property.

Yup, even for those who think it’s an impossible dream.

We have tips from Evolve Accounting & Advice on how to set up a family budget without losing your mind in the process.

And the clever peeps at Financial Basics share the essential rules to teach your teens about money.

As well as counting the dollars, with so much happening at our local schools recently, we have a bumper Education section. We wander through the idyllic rainforest of Immanuel Lutheran College to check out their Eco Shed and environmental programmes. We visit Unity College to find out about their resident bees, the Co-Op Cafe and their plans for an Urban Farm.

We also pop over to Suncoast Christian College to explore their ever-popular bush kindy programme.

Plus, with kids’ activities happily coming out of lockdown (yay!) and the smell of spring in the air, we also have the region’s best family friendly events for September and October. And, as always, the issue is packed with the Coast’s latest news, reviews and more.

Have a fabulous spring!

Angela xo

Spring

SUNSHINE COAST - BRISBANE - GOLD COAST

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

ONLINE 4 SEPT

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

THE TEAM

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Angela Sutherland

PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR Helen Rush

ACCOUNT MANAGER Francesca Goad

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tanya Nissen

GRAPHIC DESIGN Danielle Lunn

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S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2020

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CONTENTS

Features

PUBLISHED BY

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FAMILY FINANCES: Is the Aussie dream of owning your own home still possible for everyday families?

BUDGETING: Feel like having a family budget is just waaaay too hard? The experts are here to help you budget like a pro.

SH RE

Keys, bunny, babyccino... let’s go, Daddy!

Pictured on cover and in main feature: Amaiya & Troy Cover and main feature photography: Giselle Peters / Giselle Images // giselleimages.com.au

MEDIA

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

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

Made by local parents, for local parents, we strive to be the first place that families come to connect; where they are understood, supported and inspired.

ADVERTISING helen@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706

Regulars

francesca@shoremedia.com.au 0432 674 159 NOV/DEC 2020 BOOKING DEADLINES

FROM THE EDITOR ............................................................................................................... 3 WHAT’S ON: Events and activities for families........................................................................ 6 NEWS: Community news from across the Sunshine Coast .................................................... 10 NOTICEBOARD: Announcements and achievements from our local schools................... 12 CHECK THIS OUT: Our fav kid-sized products #addtocart............................................... 14 THINGS TO DO: Why we should all go strawberry picking this weekend! ......................... 16 TEENS: 5 essential finance rules that every teen should know.............................................. 22 COMMUNITY: What is it that makes a community family friendly?.................................. 24 EXPERT: Stressed and ready to shout? Parentline shares their tips.....................................26 ENVIRONMENT: The school with bees, a co-op cafe and now an urban farm ................ 29 EARLY LEARNING: Outdoor adventures at the Sunshine Coast’s first bush kindy ........ 37 PARENTING: Six ways to raise an independent child ...........................................................40 EDUCATION: The students helping to revive a rare species of butterfly............................ 43 PREGNANCY: Maternity photography - the secrets to success.......................................... 46 CLASSIFIEDS: Family friendly products and services ......................................................... 48 REVIEWS: Books and movies for the family........................................................................... 50 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.

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Ad booking: 9 October 2020 Art deadline: 14 October 2020 Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across Southeast Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast.

For distribution enquiries inbox@shoremedia.com.au Printed at Print Works All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications are published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Feedback, comments or suggestions?

Send to: inbox@shoremedia.com.au.

We aim to reply to all correspondence.

We are committed to bringing you editorial with integrity. Any assistance we do receive from local businesses to produce stories does not compromise the integrity of our coverage.

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

SKATE, SCOOTER, SLIDE OR RIDE AT AURA’S 10 PARKS! Keeping the kids active and entertained is child’s play at Aura. There are now 10 amazing parks and playgrounds to choose from, all connected by a network of bike paths.

Why not make a day of it and explore all 10?

Visit our website cityofcolour.com to download our parks and playgrounds map and get exploring!

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

19 SEPTEMBER TO 3 OCTOBER Goodlife Swim School, Buderim goodlife.org.au/swim-school Fast track your child’s swimming ability with an intensive holiday swim program. Offered throughout the spring school holidays, it’s the perfect time to accelerate your child’s swimming and water education.

NOOSA KIDS & BABY MARKETS

LITTLE BLUE PENGUINS DAILY | SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast sealifesunshinecoast.com.au Take the kids on an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast! Home to the Sunshine Coast’s only colony of Little Blue Penguins. For those looking to take their knowledge of penguins to the next level, guests aged 5+ can now step inside the Little Blue Penguins’ habitat for a Penguin Encounter to meet the little birds up close and go on a behind the scenes tour.

HAVEN: CREATIVE AND MINDFUL SPACE

BOOK YOUR PERSONALISED TOUR OF THE

Flinders Masterplan

Noosa Civic is running a range of creative and mindful workshops this September craft sessions with the Botanical Collective, making Beeswax Wraps with Glitter and Goop, and Balloon Twisting with Miss Donna.

Adult workshops include Statement Earring Making, Pottery, Macrame plus more. Places limited with Covid-19 safety plan in place.

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A monthly event with a variety of items for little ones and their parents.

Stalls include pre-loved stalls and local business stalls for kids and baby. Plus new wellness stalls for family health, Mum’s wellbeing, pregnancy and postpartum.

THROUGHOUT SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Noosa Civic, Noosaville noosacivicshopping.com.au

School holidays. Kids workshops include

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13 SEPTEMBER & 11 OCTOBER Coolum Primary School

Matthew Flinders Anglican College mfac.edu.au

Families considering a quality education are invited to book a personalised tour to view the impressive new facilities opening at Matthew Flinders Anglican College. The major Flinders Masterplan construction project is providing new agile learning spaces for the College’s 1,300 students from Prep to Year 12, with plenty of natural light, movable furniture and walls, and richly-integrated technology.

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.

Intensive Holiday Swim Program

At Noosa Civic we are running a range of creative and mindful workshops this September School holidays.

Kids workshops include craft sessions with the Botanical Collective, making Beeswax Wraps with Glitter and Goop, and Balloon Twisting with Miss Donna.

Adult workshops include Statement Earring Making, Pottery, Macrame plus more.

Full details and bookings: www.noosacivicshopping.com.au

Places strictly limited with Covid-19 safety plan in place.

Booking are essential and request a small donation per workshop, with 100% of proceeds will be donated to our charity partner Waves of Wellness Foundation.

21 September – 2 October Located next to Woolworths

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

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 F O R O U R W E E K LY W H AT ’ S O N E-N E W S

THROUGHOUT SCHOOL HOLIDAYS The Ginger Factory gingerfactory.com.au

There’s so much fun to be at the Ginger Factory these school holidays with the launch of their newest free attraction, The Gruffalo! Journey into their rainforest, following the winding trails in search of signs of the Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake and the hungry Gruffalo, then bring them to life with the Gruffalo Spotters augmented reality app.

Swim lessons return DAILY Noosa Aquatic Centre noosaaquaticcentre.com.au

Spring is here, pools are open and swim lessons are back! It is so important to get the kids back into the water with regular swim lessons, reinforcing their confidence, water safety and swimming ability, and equipping them with essential life-saving skills. Lessons available for ages 3 months to Squad.

REEF RANGERS THROUGHOUT SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort ladyelliot.com.au A 2-hour session with a guide conducting indoor and outdoor fun education activities with a focus on conservation of our beautiful Great Barrier Reef. For children ages 5 to 12 years. Operates each afternoon during Queensland and New South Wales public school holidays.

WHEELY FUN BIKE CAMP 28 SEPTEMBER TO 2 OCTOBER USC Athletics Track, Sippy Downs cycling.org.au/qld/ what-wheely-fun A fun school holiday camp where kids can learn new bike skills, road safety, build confidence and have a wheely fun time! For ages five to twelve.

SUNSHINE COAST LIBRARIES ONLINE PROGRAMS library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au Sunshine Coast Libraries has a great range of online programs to keep your little ones entertained at home. Watch live on Facebook or view on demand on the website.

Rhymes with Ryan: every Monday night at 6.30pm Toddler Tuesday: every Tuesday at 9.30am

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OPEN MORNING 3 SEPTEMBER, 9.00am – 11.00am Immanuel Lutheran College, Buderim immanuel.qld.edu.au An Open Morning is an excellent opportunity to view the College and meet with the Principal and Heads of Primary and Secondary Schools.

The College offers a number of tours ranging from the Early Learning Centre to a whole of College tour which includes both campuses. Student leaders lead the tours sharing information about their school and personal experiences.

Following your tour, there will be a morning tea and the opportunity to chat further with staff and students.

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.

THE GRUFFALO TRAIL

If you’re finding the current business environment uncertain and the immediate future difficult to plan for, you aren’t alone.

M

any local business owners are navigating unchartered waters and are receiving mixed messages about what to expect over the next 3 to 12 months, making it hard to know what to believe.

You may know businesses that have been thriving, often with a notable amount of work flowing from the various government stimulus packages, but there are also many businesses that have been completely wiped out by this crisis. There is no clear picture, especially if you are trying to guess the effect of the government spending and what will happen when it ends.

If you are feeling like this, we might be able to help you in several ways.

Firstly, we look after all your accounting and taxation needs, done and dusted, no need to devote any further time or energy to it. This includes planning for the best tax outcomes and keeping you informed on changes and opportunities to keep more money in your pocket.

Secondly, you have access to the team of seasoned professionals we have assembled. You will find huge benefits

GYMPIE

19 Tozer Street, Gympie

in having someone to bounce ideas off and discuss everything business and finance related. A lot of business owners have never had someone they can strategise with or create plans and be held accountable to them. Now is the ideal time to be thinking about the future and preparing as best you can. Having someone else to assist in that process is valuable and will reduce your stress and worry.

Finally, you may be running a business and doing what you do well, but often have never had the chance to learn and master underlying business and financial skills. Having seen this situation over many years, we offer ongoing one-on-one or small group learning experiences, both in person and online. This is a chance to develop your skills and knowledge and improve your business by improving yourself.

If you see there could be some value in this approach, give us a call or drop us an email for a free, no obligation chat about what you need and what we can do to help.

SUNSHINE COAST

Suite 305 ‘La Balsa’, 45 Brisbane Road, Mooloolaba

(07) 5319 0010 | www.evolveaa.com.au

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

WHEELY FUN BIKE CAMP

I

n partnership with Cycling Queensland, The Australian Cycling Academy has launched a school holiday program on the Sunshine Coast, designed to get kids out on their bikes and learning about cycle safety.

“It is engrained in schools that kids learn how to swim and we all recognise the importance of learning water safety, but there is no program to teach kids how to ride a bike properly,” said Matt Wilson, co-founder of the Australian Cycling Academy.

“Our goal is to get out into the community and teach kids how to ride safely, whilst enjoying the many health and wellbeing benefits from cycling.”

The program will cater for all levels – from beginner through to those who want to improve their skills.

“Most of all, the program will be a fun day out, helping kids to find the confidence to enjoy cycling and learning the essential life skills of bike safety,” said Matt.

The holiday camp will be held throughout the September school holidays at USC.

NEW BABY SIGN CL ASSES

on the Sunshine Coast sunshinesignandsing.com.au

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cycling.org.au/qld/what-wheely-fun

T

he Sunshine Coast now has its very own regular baby signing classes, with the opening of Sunshine Sign and Sing.

Established by two local mums who knew the extensive benefits of signing yet couldn’t find any classes on the Coast, Sunshine Sign and Sing has been designed as a place to not not only learn baby signing but also a place to make friends, share experiences and have some fun.

“We run a 10-week programme within term time,” said co-founder Elaine. “The session has a different theme each week including animals, everyday signs, food and seasonal themes, and each week has 12 signs to accompany the theme. We sing themed songs, have a sensory activity and finish with a book.”

Baby signing is known to have many advantages, explained Elaine.

“It not only helps you and your little one understand each other better, it reduces tantrums and frustration, it boosts their self esteem and builds their language skills.”

“We are very excited to have joined up with the Sunshine Coast Libraries too,” Elaine continued.

“They will be showing some of our videos within their Toddler Tuesday sessions, and also screening them via their online channels.”

“We are also hoping to start going into childcare centres soon to run sessions for them. And we are working on an app and additional online material to make signing more accessible to the wider community.”

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

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

Kindy teacher celebrates

30 YEARS

Credit: Matt Inglis –Tiger Tale Creative

K

SUNSHINE COAST SPORTING ACADEMY LAUNCHES

P

eregian Beach College has of a full-time elite dance program and established an exciting Sunshine equivalent touch football program, which Coast Sporting Academy, will be to be rolled out in 2021, as well encompassing elite level sports with as adding more elite sports as the education in a private school setting. program evolves.

“We wanted to offer a point of difference The football program is currently running as a private school on the Sunshine Coast for Year 2 to Year 8; however, the program and bring elite level sports encompassed in is open to all year levels (Kindergarten to education, with education being the focal Year 12). point,” said Wayne Kennedy, Principal at “We are looking to take students into Peregian Beach College. a pre-academy as part of “THIS ELITE LEVEL “We wanted it to be separate Kindergarten, which will from a sporting excellence SPORTS PROGRAM be focusing on balance and program and more aligned to coordination, with a view to IS THE FIRST elite professional sport,” Mr bringing students into the OF ITS KIND IN Kennedy continued. academy at school age.”

AUSTRALIA” “This program is the first of “The take-up from students its kind in Australia and we envisage other has been fantastic and we’ve had an educational institutions will replicate what impressive response already. Enquiries for we are doing.” the football program are still being received The football program commenced in July from all over the Sunshine Coast, as well as of 2020 in association with the Sunshine state-wide and as far as New Zealand.”

Coast Football Club (Sunshine Coast Fire).

For more information, contact 5448 1722 The College is anticipating the inclusion or visit www.pbc.qld.edu.au

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indy teacher Wendy Veale has celebrated 30 years of teaching at Buderim Community Kindergarten.

The milestone was celebrated with an afternoon tea, where children she had taught over the years came back to celebrate with her.

Spanning decades of teaching, children who came through kindy now return as parents.

“I have a family at the moment where the mum came here. It’s really lovely to see them come through as parents and now teach their children. It’s such a special circle.”

Has teaching changed significantly across the last 45 years? “Thankfully, children remain as innocent as they were in 1975,” said Wendy.

We obviously talk about broader topics and use electronically generated tools for learning, but nothing beats a cardboard box and someone reading a story book to a child sitting in their lap. Lady beetles and worms are still high on the agenda for looking at and catching. The sandpit is still a great place to relax and have a chat. The most important skill we learn is to be a good friend and care for each other.”

As a long-standing community kindergarten, Buderim Kindy is a much-loved part of the local community. “It’s such a beautiful environment with an outstanding reputation in the area.

Teaching here has been so special.”

Wendy will retire at the end of the year. “It will be an exciting time for me! I would like to learn to play bridge. I have a sewing machine still in its box that I’d like to use, and I am looking forward to spending huge amounts of time in our garden!”

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 locals Crikey! We’re celebrating our 50th year anniversary all year long at Australia Zoo and we’d love for you to celebrate with us! To mark this milestone come experience our exciting new exhibits and amazing new animals.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN ACTIVITIES

FREE AUSTRALIA ZOO WILDLIFE WARRIORS SHOW

EXPLORE OURAfRiCa NEWEST ExPlOrE EXHIBIT: STEVE’S PLACE

MEET THE TALLEST WiLdLiFe PhOtOs LIVING GIRAFFE

australiazoo.com.au

6090

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

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

HAYES BABY BAG TOTE AND BACKPACK

Hayes Baby Bag Backpack $169 (left), Hayes Baby Bag Tote $189 (above)

Designed for parents, Hayes Baby Bags are stylish on the outside and perfectly organised on the inside.

Made from premium faux leather, there’s plenty of pockets for nappies, gym gear, and all the baby and mama essentials. The tote is big enough for a laptop, whilst the backpack will leave you hands free to manage the kids.

The collection is available in Black and Cappuccino. arrived.shop

FABRICULTURE AUSTRALIAN ANIMAL ALPHABET FLASHCARDS This gorgeous A-Z of unusual and vulnerable species has been created with the purpose of helping young people to learn about our most endangered native species so they can be preserved for future generations.

They are designed to grow with your little one - with letter, colour and animal recognition for little ones and species information on the reverse for older kids. $29.95 fabriculture.com.au

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SNACK & SAY PLATES 4 everyday snack plates to revolutionise the practice of sight words!

As food disappears, words appear!

With our little people and planet’s health in mind, these gorgeous plates are made from PLA (cornstarch) and bamboo fibre with no nasty toxins or binding resins. So, once your child has outgrown their plates you can bury the plates in the garden! $34.95 snackandsay.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

MAGIC FARAWAY TREE Ricky Dee’s Eco Toys is a husband and wife team who create a range of hand-made, sustainable, whimsical toys designed to connect children to nature and inspire their imaginations. This latest project – Enid Blyton’s Magic Faraway Tree – is a magical interpretation of a timeless classic. All Ricky Dee’s designs are handmade to order and have slight variations. All items can be purchased separately. Magic Faraway Tree $300 rickydeestoys.com

KINDERFEETS CARGO WALKER Kinderfeets Cargo Walker $164.95

New from Kinderfeets, this gorgeous walker is both a storage wagon for toys and a walker for newly-mobile children.

Handmade with replenishable birch wood and fitted with adjustable rubber-trimmed wheels, the Cargo Walker is an unrivalled option for your tiny tot! Once your child perfects walking independently, the back wheels can be removed to increase manoeuvrability. The wooden crate is also removable. rainbowfun.com.au

LEGO® SUPER MARIO™ It’s time to level up your LEGO collection with LEGO Super Mario – bringing new interactivity and gameplay to the traditional LEGO brick experience. Collect coins in game levels created with LEGO bricks, search for treasure hidden by Toad, defeat a Koopa Troopa in the Guarded Fortress, and more. Starter pack $89.99

MOON CHILD KOBY ROMPER Get your rad little human set for a vintageinspired summer with this gorgeous unisex romper. Made from natural soft textured cotton with natural coconut button detail, it’s available in cream with herringbone texture, charcoal stripe, stormy blue muslin and ochre muslin. $49 // clothandhide.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

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THINGS TO DO

Why we should all go

L

STRAWBERRY PICKING THIS WEEKEND

ooking for something healthy, affordable, outdoors, and fun to do with the kids? PYO strawberries at Strawberry Fields, Palmview is one of our FAVOURITE family friendly activities in the region. Here’s why…

YOU GET THE FINAL DECISION ON QUALITY Ever wondered how old the strawberries at the supermarket are? By the time they are picked, packed and transported it can be two to six days before they hit the shelves.

Picking your own strawberries means that you choose which berries you get and you know they are all 100% fresh (as you’ve just picked them!).

STRAWBERRIES ARE PACKED WITH NUTRIENTS As well as being a rich source of Vitamin C (in fact, they have slightly more than a standard orange), strawberries are also packed with antioxidants, plant compounds,

manganese, folate (Vitamin B9) and potassium. Healthy and delicious!

social pages for dates and details). And if that’s not enough, head over the Strawberry Fields shop, where you’ll find jams, relishes, soaps and more.

A L E S S O N O N PA D D O C K TO P L AT E Picking your own strawberries is a simple yet fun and hands-on BERRY way to teach the kids about where TIPS our food comes from.

THERE’S HEAPS OF FA M I LY F U N As well as PYO strawberries, Strawberry Fields has a bunch of family-friendly activities that makes it a great day out with the kids. There is a children’s playground and a large open grassed area for the kids to enjoy.

There is also a fab cafe with a yummy range of strawberry treats including ice cream, scones with strawberries and cream, and tarts. There is often live music on the weekend too (check their

HOW TO PICK THE PERFECT STRAWBERRY

The redder the sweeter, so go for ones with the most colour. Size makes no difference to taste.

LOVE STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIES?

Freeze a stack of strawberries before the end of the season and have farm-fresh strawberry smoothies all-year round.

IT’S OUTDOOR AND SCREEN FREE After a long COVID-19 lockdown, there’s no better way to dust off those cobwebs than putting down the iPad, getting outdoors in the sunshine and fresh air, and doing something fun together.

SHOP LOCAL It’s been a tough year for everyone, and doing something as simple as picking your own strawberries from a local farmer can be a wonderful way to shop local, live local, and support our local community.

Best of all, it’s free! Just pay for your strawberries!

MORE INFO: WHERE: STRAWBERRY FIELDS, 133 LAXTON ROAD, PALMVIEW, SUNSHINE COAST QLD 4553 | PHONE: (07) 5494 5146 FACEBOOK: @STRAWBERRYFIELDSAUSTRALIA | INSTAGRAM: @STRAWBERRYFIELDSPYO | WEBSITE: WWW.STRAWBERRYFIELDS.COM.AU

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

FINANCIAL GROWTH AUSTRALIAN D R E A M

T

he Aussie dream of owning your own home has been steadily slipping away for many modern families.

With the cost of living, rising property prices AND the juggle of raising a family, adding a mortgage into the mix could be cray-cray, right? But with the array of first home buyer incentives available at the moment and the right property guidance, that dream might be feasible once more.

“Money is cheaper than ever,” says Troy Sussman from Your First Home Co. “In Southeast Queensland we have a growing property market, plus there are some amazing government and building incentives available to help get you in market. Though it might seem like an unattainable dream, for many, buying a property is not as impossible as it seems.”

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GETTING YOUR FINANCES IN PLACE

Troy believes that a major part of getting your finances in place is about education.

“Nine out of ten people are in a far better position than they think,” Troy says. “With the help of budgeting and tips on how to save, it’s amazing how many families can get their finances in place to purchase a property.”

“We can sit down with you to find out your money and property goals, and we can also connect you with a trusted mortgage broker to assess how much you can borrow.”

Once you have a plan and know what you can afford, you can get a much better idea of what type of home you can buy and where you can live.

“There are many different ways of doing

things that people don’t know about, you just have to know the ins and outs of property,” says Troy. “Through tips and tricks, the right guidance and using the grants in your favour, there are plenty of options available.”

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PROPERTY

When choosing your first home, consider what is most important to you now and over the next five years. Are you looking to be within a short commute to work, or do you want outdoor space? Do you have kids or are you planning to start a family? All of these things, in addition to your budget, will influence where and what you buy.

“Buying your first property isn’t about buying any property, but about buying the 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

PROPERTY

right property for the right reason,” explains with the extra costs that a renovation Troy. “Most people move every seven to nine inevitably brings, and you get a brand new years, and many refinance yearly to ensure house with a warranty on the construction they are always getting the best and appliances. And most “For most deals, so the idea of a forever importantly, the house is finished home isn’t as relevant today,” when you move in – there’s no young families, Troy says. “Therefore, your first living in a building site whilst you building a property purchase is usually a try and renovate around your new house is stepping stone to help secure already busy life.” much more you financially.”

“Also, if it’s an investment, you appealing than To achieve this security, can also claim depreciation and a renovation” choosing the right property that negative gearing, so there are lots will deliver capital growth is of advantages to buying brand critical, and this comes down to research. new that an existing house doesn’t offer.”

“Units might be gaining good capital That’s not to say there aren’t pitfalls in growth in one suburb, yet townhouses are building either. Choosing the right developer doing better elsewhere. So it’s imperative to and ensuring you have a fixed price contract research what will be the best property for to avoid late stage variations can be vital. the best return.”

“Because the building process can be so For many, their first property purchase daunting, we hold a family’s hand from start turns into an investment property. This to finish,” Troy explains. “Our in-house team allows buyers to continue to live and rent in will project manage the entire build. From the suburb they want to be in, whilst owning finding the right property, communicating an investment property in a suburb of with a conveyancer, through the build and significant capital growth. inspections to handing over the keys.”

“We have an in-house customer research “A brand new build also means you are system that constantly monitors suburb eligible for the many government grants demographics, capital growth and price trends over the last ten years across the region,” explains Troy. “We also track existing and planned infrastructure such as Can our first home public transport, schools and shopping look like this, centres. If property values in one suburb Daddy? have really taken off in the past five years, we find out why and will research to find out whether neighbouring areas have similar potential. This invaluable research tool helps us to recommend the right property for you and your budget.”

available at the moment,” Troy continues.

“The jargon can be pretty confusing, so we also help all customers decipher which grants are available to them and help them complete the paperwork.”

YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW

There’s so much advice out there about buying your first home it can quickly become overwhelming. And, this abundance of information is not always presented in a way that the everyday purchaser can understand.

“The property market has shown time again that it is the single best wealth creating tool around, but even if you do a lot of research on your own, you may miss out on a key detail,” Troy says. “Our team breaks down what you need to know to make great choices.”

And, with the right planning and support, he believes owning your own home is possible for many of us. “A family paying around $400 per week in rent could purchase a property, and their repayments wouldn’t be much different.”

“All you have to do is tap into a specialist and surround yourself with the right people.”

SHOULD I BUILD O R R E N O VAT E ?

Though everyone dreams of a spectacular home, the reality is that most families can’t afford their dream home first time around.

Those handy at DIY might consider renovating an older-style home.

“When budgeting for a renovation, always allow at least 15 per cent on top of your budget for variables, as you often discover many hidden extras when you start pulling the property apart.”

Building a new home means you avoid being hit with additional costs, as the design and complete cost for the build will be established up-front.

“For most young families, building a new house is much more appealing than a renovation,” says Troy. “You won’t get hit 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

https://yourfirsthome.co

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BUDGETINGLIKE A Feel like having a family budget is just waaaay too hard?

We chat to Cameron Klupfel from Evolve Accounting & Advice to get his expert advice on setting up a family budget AND sticking to it!

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P RO

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE A BUDGET? A budget is the cornerstone of getting the family’s finances on track.

It ensures that your precious income is being spent in the most appropriate places and not being wasted. It also sets out a visible path to follow, providing financial discipline for everyone involved.

HOW DO YOU SET UP A BUDGET? The easiest way to set up a family budget is to break it into achievable chunks or ‘pots’.

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

FA M I LY F I N A N C E

WHAT ABOUT SAVING FOR THE FUTURE?

ting e g d u B ls a i t n e s Es

• Put a budget in place as soon as you can • Be honest about your objectives and realistic about your budget • Put savings away at the start of each pay cycle • Hold regular family meetings to set budgets across the household • Review your budget regularly • Be proud of the savings you grow • Teach kids how to budget and save • Seek advice if you need it

First, identify your fixed costs. These are the everyday essentials you need to live such as rent, bills and groceries.

Then make a list of discretionary costs. These are the non-essentials such as eating out, coffee, clothes and entertainment.

Thirdly, have an amount for savings and rainy day needs. This pot covers those unexpected bills such as repairs, emergency funds and saving for the future.

WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR ENSURING YOU STICK TO YOUR BUDGET? Sit down with your partner and be honest about your objectives and what you are trying to achieve – is it for saving, paying off debt, accomodating school fees?

Be realistic. Don’t say you won’t eat out when you will because regular budget blowouts will just deter you from continuing.

Once you have a budget in place, you both need to agree to it to ensure everyone is on the same page and happy to commit.

Review it regularly to see where you could cut costs. If you are having budget blowouts, look at where the extra spend is going and adjust accordingly.

Be proud of the savings you grow – seeing that pot accumulate is always a great reminder to stay on track.

Seek advice. The experts can guide you through the budget process and help you set goals. So, don’t go it alone, particularly if you are looking to save or invest. You will have more success with the right advice and foundation.

WHEN SHOULD YOU SET A BUDGET UP? As soon as you can! The sooner you put these practices in place, the sooner it becomes habit. We don’t learn these skills at school, so it’s important to establish them as part of life as soon as you can.

Starting early also means the savings are compounded, ensuring you will get further ahead.

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

Though it’s hard to imagine retirement when you are in the thick of nappies and school runs, having enough to retire on is a critical part of your life planning.

To ensure you will be set up when it’s time to slow down, decide on your retirement goal – i.e. how much you need to retire – and work back from there.

If you are finding it hard to save, commit to saving a certain amount by setting up a direct debit into a separate account (one that you can’t instantly touch!) that debits at the start of each pay cycle.

Tap & Go is terrible for frittering away money, so put the savings somewhere that is invisible and you’ll forget it’s there.

HOW DO WE KEEP IT CONSISTENT ACROSS THE WHOLE FAMILY? Family meetings are a great way of setting budgets across the household. This way you can clarify what every family member wants and work that into your budgeting. It also sets in motion educating the kids about money.

Give the kids extra jobs to do around the house beyond their everyday chores that allow them to earn money.

Help them to set up their own three ‘pots’.

The first is for spending right now – after all, they’ve worked for their money so it’s nice for them to go and buy something small to feel that reward.

The second is for saving for long-term goals. Teach them to go without, see the money accumulate and experience the reward of gradually working towards a long-term goal.

The third is for giving. This really helps them to understand how society works and that giving is a part of what we do. It might be a Christmas present for the Wishing Tree, sponsoring an animal, or planting a tree.

Use physical money with the kids. This way they really understand what it means to pay for things (handing the money over), saving (seeing the money accumulate), and donating (feeling the significance of giving and the empathy for those receiving).

ANY FINANCIAL PARENTING TIPS? It’s really important that you keep it consistent. If the kids do the jobs each week, pay them every week. If it loses consistency, it loses impact.

Model the behaviour you expect. You can’t expect the kids to do something if you don’t do it yourself!

Also, explain consumer credit early. Cards seem like an endless money tree to kids, so it’s important that they understand how credit cards work and the financial impact they carry.

This way, once they are out on their own, they understand the downsides of credit and the value of delayed gratification on items they really want, if it means avoiding the financial hardship of debt.

These basic things aren’t taught at school, so educating your kids about finances from an early age is critical.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TIPS, VISIT: EVOLVE ACCOUNTING & ADVICE 07 5319 0010 WWW.EVOLVEAA.COM.AU

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for teenagers

5 ESSENTIAL FINANCE RULES Research shows that money conversations between parents and their children lead to increased financial capability and wellbeing. Why not get the conversation started by introducing these financial rules of thumb to your children?

B Y F I N A N C I A L B A S I C S F O U N D AT I O N

W

e know it’s difficult to explain a financial concept to teenagers but demonstrating it with real life behaviours can really help them understand it better. These five simple financial rules of thumb build financial capability by focusing on simple and practical behaviours around planning for the use of money.

1. PAY YOURSELF FIRST This rule focuses on the importance of paying yourself first and saving a fixed amount of all income before paying for expenses. Don’t save what’s left over after spending. Spend what’s left over after saving.

Practise this rule by setting a savings goal and always saving a percentage of all income.

5. SLEEP ON IT

This rule focuses on restrained spending and taking the time to think about spending money on something that wasn’t budgeted for.

Practise this rule before every purchase and, before you know it, you’ll start to distinguish between needs and wants, which will help you make better purchasing/ spending decisions.

Financial Basics Foundation has partnered with Suncorp to design a toolkit of practical family activities to help put the financial rules of thumb into practice: www.suncorp.com.au/ learn-about/finance-for-kids Teachers and schools can access the suite of free resources, including the ESSI Money game, which brings the financial rules of thumb to life, by registering at: www.financialbasics.org.au

The Financial Basics Foundation is an independent charity that provides free financial literacy teaching resources for Australian secondary schools.

2. SPEND LESS THAN YOU EARN This rule focuses on living within your means by setting a budget. It’s easy to be swept up in consumerism – to want every gadget or fashion item. Unfortunately, it’s also easy to access credit, including buy now, pay later schemes, which can lead to unmanageable debt.

Practise this rule by setting a budget, automating savings and establishing a plan to avoid financial stress.

3. SHOP AROUND This rule focuses on teaching teenagers to be critical consumers by taking the time to shop around for the best price, as well as building the skills for negotiating the best price on purchases.

Practise this rule on small purchases to begin with and you’ll build the confidence and skills to get the best deal on large purchases, financial products and utilities.

4. TIME IS MONEY This rule focuses on the importance of time and the impact of compound interest when it comes to saving money.

Practise this rule early in life and continue to save over the long term and you’ll maximise savings.

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

Book a

in

Prep

touR

won

Experience the adventure

CALL 5451 3600

ent onder, excitem w , y er v co is d ed with and Each day is fill eet our teachers m r, u to al on s us for a per . and awe. Join Suncoast Prep at fe li ce n ie exper

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Suncoast students embark on an exciting learning journey as they discover their own unique place in the world. p. 5451 3600 | a. Cnr Schubert & Kiel Mtn Rds, Woombye

www.suncoastcc.qld.edu.au

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

W H AT M A K E S A C O M M U N I T Y

A

We are all looking for a family friendly place to raise our little ones.

But what is it that makes a community truly family friendly?

sk any new parents, and top of their list when deciding where to settle is family friendly living. After all, the 18 years (and then some!) that follow a baby’s arrival are dominated by the many demands of raising a child.

But what is it that makes a community family friendly? Is it a quality school, great parks, friendly neighbours? And do we inevitably have to sacrifice one of these things when restricted by affordability?

As the Sunshine Coast’s fastest growing community, Stockland’s Aura development is one city that has been masterplanned with the family in mind. And because of this, families are now flocking to Aura - from the Sunshine Coast and beyond.

EDUCATION One of the most important choices you make as a parent is the school your kids will go to.

“Baringa Primary is very proud to be Queensland’s first Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) School of Excellence,” said Principal Noel Baggs. “Our primary school is an innovative and exciting learning environment, providing students with a world-class education.”

Aura’s first high school, Baringa State Secondary College is due to open for school year 2021 for Years 7 and 8.

It was also recently announced that Aura’s

second state primary school in the suburb of Nirmba will be opening for school year 2022. As well as the state schools, Stockland and Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) have announced plans for a new Prep to Year 12 Catholic college to open in Aura in 2023.

P L AY A family friendly suburb must have the space and amenities to play.

“We have designed the community to have a park within 400 metres of every home,” said Josh Sondergeld, Project Director at Stockland. “We now have 10 parks, each with a range of facilities such as play equipment, barbecues, shaded tables and amenities.”

Older kids are also catered for with an impressive skate park, basketball and netball hoops, and plenty of bike tracks and green space.

“The Aura connected cycleway means that our primary school has 30 per cent more kids riding to school than other Queensland primary schools,” Mr Sondergeld said. “Once finished, the cycleway will connect across the entire city of Aura, so families can safely ride their bikes everywhere.”

COMMUNITY The second stage of the Baringa retail centre is due to open in early 2021, which will include a family medical centre, dentist and a John

Wallace swim school. The current offering includes multiple cafes, including the recently opened Mummy’s Cafe. With great coffee and a fabulous kids’ play area, it’s already proving popular for mother’s groups and family catch ups.

“There are also regular events happening around the city for new families to develop community connections, such as free fitness classes, seasonal celebrations and regular family friendly events,” said Mr Sondergeld.

Local mother of three Amber has really embraced all that this community has to offer. “It’s a really great community,” she says.

“I go to Spirit Pilates, which is right next to the IGA. There are new community walking groups, there are night markets and family movie nights on the grass. We take a blanket and some snacks and wine to share with the other mums! There are food stalls sometimes.

The kids love it.”

AFFORDABILITY “Having a family doesn’t mean having to give up the idea of owning your own home”, said Mr Sondergeld. “Aura offers a range of affordable living options, we have 3-bed 2-bath house and land packages for under $385,000*. Therefore families can happily settle here in a place they can afford without having to make any compromises on family friendly living.” *Price correct as at 1/9/2020

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

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

WELLBEING

D

STRESSED OUT & READY TO SHOUT?

o you ever notice that some days you, as a parent, can take it all in your stride? Little man refuses to go to bed? That’s ok, you have the patience of the Dalai Lama tonight. You can sit with him. Calm him and soothe him back down. But, other nights, you just can’t. You are already at breaking point. You just need him to sleep and you raise your voice, despite knowing that will cause the opposite outcome to what you both need.

YOU ARE HUMAN

So many things will affect our ability to be what we want to be for our children. Stress is a big one. Stress from multiple areas in our lives, such as money worries, our relationships and jobs, will empty our patience and capacity to be present.

AND HERE IS THE KICKER

When we start to be less present for our children, due to external (and completely understandable) reasons, it can make them want or need us more. This, in turn, can just add to the stress. It is an unfortunate but completely normal cycle.

SO WHAT CAN WE DO?

We need to sit down and take a moment to look at all the things that may be individually affecting our capacity at this current moment in time. Take five minutes, make a cup of tea and actually think about all

the things that you as a parent/worker/partner have going on that may be draining our unseen cup of capacity. We need to check in regularly because, as an adult, we will always have a list of demands of us. Some days it will be more complicated than other days but we will always have some sort of list. We will see that, for the days that the list is much more complicated, it may be harder to be what we need and want to be for our children. This will probably also correlate to the days that our children act out and show us that they need us.

We need to understand what is draining our unseen cup of capacity because it is very easy to blame whatever we see on the surface during this time. It is easy to think you are feeling this way because of a bedtime battle or because your tween girl sassed her brother at the dinner table. We need to know what is blowing up our balloon of stress, not focus on the pin that pops it.

We need to be kind to ourselves and pick our battles. We should look to connect with our kids, rather than direct them. These are the days when it doesn’t matter if our little man sleeps in our bed. That is being kind to him and you. By doing this, we fill up our unseen cup. We fill up theirs. We eat toast for dinner and we put on a movie. We snuggle up on the couch. And then we do it all again tomorrow with, hopefully, a little more in our cup.

BY KIMBERLEY HARPER, PARENTLINE MANAGER

Sometimes you just need someone to talk to. Parentline counsellors are here to help.

Call daily between 8am & 10pm on 1300 30 1300, visit Parentline.com.au or WebChat between 8am and 9pm every day.

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

Kids Helpline is a service of yourtown for 5 - 25 year olds

ENVIRONMENT

SUSTAINABILITY & INNOVATION

in action

First came the bees, then came the Co-Op Café,

Unity students create a range of honey products

now Unity College is starting an Urban Farm.

I

t was 2017 when Unity College started keeping bees. Not just native bees but European honey bees. The bees became the focus of the Certificate 2 and 3 Business students who harvested and packaged the honey. Over the coming years, the project continued to grow, with the students establishing a small business under the name Mil Hut. “The bees provided a wonderful model of teamwork, focus, dedication and the importance of being great at your job and role,” said Gillian Meyers, Vocational Education and Training Co-Ordinator at Unity College. “Working with the beehives allowed the students in the business classes to contribute to a range of products under the Mil Hut umbrella, and students continued to explore a range of business concepts through this model."

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

S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2020

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ENVIRONMENT

“The bees provided a wonderful model of teamwork, focus, dedication and the importance of being great at your job and role.”

The Co-Op Cafe is local, sustainable and innovative

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The Co-Op Cafe

Unity College Urban Farm

With a growing need for a place to sell Mil Hut products, the Co-Op Café was opened on the Unity College campus.

“The Co-Op Café is a purpose-built training space that supports the partnership of College business and hospitality training programs, local businesses and entrepreneurship,” explained Gillian. “It is where business and hospitality meet (quite literally) through the guiding principles of being ‘Local, Sustainable and Innovative’.”

The partnerships are key to providing students with industry skills, knowledge and an understanding of expectations. The College consciously chooses to partner with local businesses that are passionate about sustainable practices and innovative thinking.

Today, business students keep the retail space stocked with honey from the College hives as well as a range of carefully chosen items to complement the environment. The Co-Op Café also serves drinks and food items sourced from local providers or from the College’s hospitality students.

“The Co-Op Café is sustained by a manager, student traineeships, and students from various curriculum areas, who now use the environment as an excellence in learning experience,” said Gillian.

“The Co-op Café also provides a safe space for students and other members of the Unity College community to trial business and product ideas.

Students are mentored through different business models and strategies that suit their product.”

This year Unity College celebrates the year of ‘Sacred Earth’. In keeping with the sustainability and innovation around the bees and the Co-Op Café, an urban farm project is being established.

“We have big plans for raised market garden beds, worm farms, composting, vertical gardens, a mini orchard, hydroponics, recycling stations, chickens and an outdoor kitchen,” said Gillian.

“Students from across Prep to Year 12 classes will take ownership of various projects within the farm setting and design. It is envisaged that students will develop grit and work readiness skills through the practical application of their curriculum incorporating maths, art and design, plant, animal and environmental sciences, and sustainability.”

Family and neighbourhood partnerships will provide mutual skill sharing and build stronger community relationships.

“The urban farm aims to engage students and their families in an active learning community where the values of respect for themselves, other living things and the environment are developed and strengthened,” continued Gillian. “Students will experience the cycle of sustainable produce from farm to kitchen to plate, inspiring entrepreneurial and innovative thinking alongside stewardship for our earth.”

For more information about the programs at Unity College, visit www.uc.qld.edu.au.

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

K–12 Learning Village Freedom within limits A Montessori-inspired school supporting children to become self-confident, independent thinkers who learn because they are interested in the world and enthusiastic about life.

For more information, visit mic.qld.edu.au Phone 07 5442 3807 Find us at 880-932 Maroochydore Rd Forest Glen Montessori International College

mic.qld.edu.au

E D U C AT I O N P R O F I L E

TRUDI EDWARDS Head of Primary, Matthew Flinders Anglican College www.mfac.edu.au

MEET THE LEADER We chat to Trudi Edwards, Head of Primary at Matthew Flinders Anglican College, to find out about life at one of the Sunshine Coast’s leading schools.

H O W L O N G H AV E Y O U B E E N H E A D O F P R I M A R Y AT F L I N D E R S? This is my third year as Head of Primary at Flinders.

WH AT D O YO U E N J OY M O S T ABOUT YOUR ROLE? I really enjoy our students; their energy and enthusiasm are infectious and not a day passes without them making me laugh and feel genuinely proud of them. I am very grateful for my role, which enables me to work in a community committed to providing opportunities for our students to flourish.

WH AT H A S B E E N YO U R P R O U D E S T M O M E N T AT F L I N D E R S? There are many. On a daily level, I see students persist and draw on resilience when faced with a challenge, which results in those ‘ah-ha’ moments – the moment the penny drops. This is when genuine selfconfidence develops; being witness to those moments is a privilege. More recently, I was

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incredibly proud of the sheer dedication of our teaching staff. They ensured the quality of relationships, care and learning, which is so clearly evident at school, was transferred to our remote learning platform during lockdown. They responded with incredible commitment and grace in a truly challenging time.

WH AT D O YO U T H I N K M A KE S FLINDERS PRIMARY SPECIAL? Whilst the grounds and facilities are fantastic, it is the unwavering strategic commitment to excellence and developing each student’s character – one marked by kindness, decency, a generosity of spirit and desire to make a difference in the world – they are the WOW factors at Flinders.

HOW WOULD THE STUDENTS DESCRIBE YOU? That question is probably best answered by them – let me know what they say. I’d hope the words ‘caring, dedicated and

enthusiastic’ are mentioned! They would probably quote the two expectations I have of them which I address at every opportunity possible – ‘Work Hard and Be Kind’.

W H A T ’ S Y O U R F AV O U R I T E T H I N G TO DO ON THE WEEKEND? Living on the Sunshine Coast means the beach is always a go-to, and the company of family and friends always makes for a good weekend.

IF YOU WEREN’T A TEACHER, WH AT WO U L D YO U B E? I really love what I do, so if it wasn’t working in schools, it would have to be working in some way as an advocate for children.

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YO U R S E L F T H AT M O S T P E O P L E D O N’T KN OW. I deeply regret never having learned an instrument – so I’m taking violin lessons this semester with our Year 2 students.

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

Discover

Flinders

Flinders is planning for a bright future with our Flinders Master Plan.

Discover why our College is one of Queensland’s leading schools and how we educate from Prep to Year 12 for excellence in learning and life.

Come and explore our new innovative Year 7 Precinct and learn about our Years 5 and 6 Precinct, opening January 2021.

Book your personalised tour today at www.mfac.edu.au Stringybark Road, Buderim | 07 5477 3260 | Find us on

TECHNOLOGY

TEACHING KIDS HOW TO SPOT

FAKE NEWS double check the ending. Those with endings such as .co could be trying to be emulate a legitimate site.

Opinion vs fact

With the huge volume of information online it can be tricky to identify fake news. So, how do we equip our kids with the skills they need to be wise to misinformation?

Do you know how to spot a fake news story from a genuine one online?

It’s not something we needed to learn when were were growing up. There was the nightly news on one of the four TV channels and maybe a newspaper on the kitchen bench.

Information always came from trusted sources.

Today, anyone can publish something online and with that comes a deluge of misinformation, fake news and biased reporting. Therefore, it is imperative that kids of today learn how to analyse and question everything they read online.

Here are some simple tricks to help them identify fact from fiction.

Look at the quality Words in all capitals, spelling mistakes, clickbait headlines and unaccredited images, these are all signs that the story is fake. Also, look at who wrote it; a professional in their field is likely to be a more reliable source of information than a social media influencer!

Check a reputable source Cross reference the information with a reputable news site. News sources specifically aimed at children are a great resource (ABC’s BTN and BBC’s Newsround).

Fact checking sites such as snopes.com and factcheck.org are good for cross checking

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Look for signs of opinion or fact. Fact is backed up with stats and expert comment, while opinion is an author’s assertion.

Help your child spot the difference between the two.

trending information. For general facts, Use alternative sources jump onto the library website (library.

It’s important that children experience the sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au), where you’ll find different formats of information - digital and links to a range of free online resources such print. Pick up a reputable newspaper, head as atlases and encyclopaedias. to the library and learn to source reliable If a news story sounds untrue, information in various ways. check it on Google to see if it “Encourage is cropping up elsewhere, or if Make it everyday children to someone has already commented Our kids come into contact with be critical elsewhere on its lack of credibility. news every day, so rather than thinkers from trying to hide them away from the get-go” Get to the bottom of the story the online world, equip them to Just because something has been be online savvy. Teach them to shared on social media numerous times be skeptical not cynical, and to always trust doesn’t mean it’s true. If something looks their instincts. Does it sound ridiculous, or suspect, track down the story to its original too good to be true? It probably is! source. If it has been reposted, it doesn’t always mean its fake, but it’s always worth It’s never too early to start! identifying the original author.

Children are consuming media from a very early age, so encourage them to be critical Research the site thinkers from the get-go. Ask questions when Google the site’s name and read other stories you are sharing a book, chat about fact and on the site to see if they are from a reputable fiction and how stories can vary depending source. Have they been accused of publishing on who is telling them. Visit the eSafety fake news before? Read the site’s About Us website (esafety.gov.au) to find information page and check out any other brands that are for all age groups. With games, activities associated with it. and information, it’s the one stop shop for learning about all aspects of online safety.

Check the URL

Check for strange URLs. Even for those sites that may seem to have a trustworthy name,

By Karen Gawen, Young People’s Services Supervisor from Sunshine Coast Council 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.

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Your voice is your child’s favourite sound.

Make talking with your little one part of your daily routine – any place, any time.

Turn off devices so your child can hear you Let your child see your face when talking Borrow books from your library and talk about the stories and pictures.

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KINDY

Connecting their little learners with the natural environment, Suncoast Christian College’s bush kindy is fast becoming the region’s most popular early learning program.

I

n an era when outdoor play has lost much of its value, simply due to lack of time, space and resources for many modern families, Suncoast Christian College has found a way to regularly provide hours of outdoor learning experiences for their little learners through their popular bush kindy.

“Our bush kindy program started over eight years ago with our children interested in exploring nature,” explained Krystle Cullen, Little Learners Director. “It was the children’s drive and passion that led the team to consider alternate options for our Little Learners to nurture their desire to explore. From there, the program continued to grow in popularity and became a solid addition to the kindy program.”

With the College having a section of remnant rainforest on campus, providing a bush kindy program was an easy addition to the early learning curriculum.

“We are extremely lucky to be set within the Suncoast Christian College grounds, allowing us access to all areas. Behind our service, we have large bushland with mature trees, a creek bed and plenty of space to explore and gather, right at our fingertips.”

Similar to the innovative European Forest Schools, Little Learners bush kindy provides kids with the opportunity to play in the rain, climb trees, balance on fallen logs, get 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

BUSH KINDY ADVENTURES involved in dramatic play, find insects, draw with sticks in the ground and spend hours exploring in nature.

“They can have adventures and collect goodies from the forest for bush craft.

There are opportunities to learn about the environment, bush safety and how to engage in nature play,” said Krystle.

WHY IS NATURE PLAY SO IMPORTANT?

Educators at Little Learners have always been strong advocates of nature play, believing that is it fundamental for every child.

“For children, play is learning,” Krystle

said. “Nature play significantly improves all aspects of child development: physical, cognitive, social and emotional. Playing outdoors grows resilience, self-confidence, initiative, creativity and more. It encourages the joy of movement; it nurtures wild imaginations, experimentation, friendships, social connections and behaviour. It fosters confidence, self esteem and independence through outdoor play and exploration.”

The bush kindy program is an experience that wholly supports Little Learners’ philosophy.

“We acknowledge that children are full of curiosity about themselves, their environment and the world they live in. We S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2020

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KINDY

advocate for children to question and reflect on their own ideas, as or three hours of uninterrupted play in the bush, using what nature well as those around them; to take risks where they become, in a has provided as learning materials,” said Krystle. sense, the catalyst of their own curriculum,” Krystle continued. “By “We offer a variety of experiences that incorporate various allowing the children to ‘be children’, they explore and learn about elements of risk. It’s hard to pinpoint a favourite activity, although their world and themselves through play, which is intentionally we do find many children gravitate towards our vine swing, organised to promote further thinking and analysis.” mud play and the teepee that everyone helped to build,” Krystle “We believe childhood is precious and that an continued. important part of childhood is being outside in “Stories are told, songs are sung, knowledge is nature. We know that children need more time shared. Through play, your children will connect with outside in nature, which is a concept supported by We believe childhood and respect this space. They will connect with their research. That’s why we pioneered the concept of in a way that cannot be done under a roof or is precious and that land Bush Kindy.” within walls.” an important part of The bush kindy is now one of Suncoast Little WHAT HAPPENS ON A Learners’ most popular programs. “We find that childhood is being USUAL BUSH KINDY DAY? our Bush Kindy days are our most popular, with outside in nature.

The bush kindy program runs twice a week with many families on the waitlist with children eager to the children safely escorted by the educators to the experience the adventure.” on-site forest. As the Sunshine Coast can get quite “I believe our program has been successful warm, it is usually run only in the cooler months. in many ways as it not only allows the children freedom and Educators at Suncoast Little Learners try not to have a scheduled unscheduled play but creates and provides a space for them to routine on bush kindy days, but rather let the children explore negotiate, analyse, run, create, dream, and get dirty,” says Krystle. freely, allowing the children to immerse themselves in the “We measure our success on our Bush Kindy’s popularity as there is environment. never a child that doesn’t want to go, and they are always asking to “Children are natural learners, so this program provides children stay longer!” with the time, an ideal environment for them to learn in and two Visit www.suncoastlittlelearners.com.au for more information.

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

PA R E N T I N G

6 WAYS

TO RAISE AN INDEPENDENT CHILD Independence is a crucial life skill that promotes self-esteem and wellbeing.

Here’s how you can nurture your child’s growing independence in the early years.

1. TRUST THEIR CAPABILITIES Fostering a child’s independence begins with the belief that children are naturally competent learners with the ability to make decisions for themselves. The staff at Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure Buderim have introduced real drinking glasses into the rooms from toddlers to pre-school. There are open shelves where children are able to use the glasses when they want a drink. “We trust the children enough that they’re going to hold the glass properly” says Michelle Tuffley, Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure’s operations manager.

2. TEACH SELF-HELP ACTIVITIES With a little bit of help, even very young children can learn how to undertake basic self-help activities. For example, children up to 18 months old can drink from a cup, pick up finger food, begin to use a spoon and help get themselves dressed by putting a foot in a shoe and an arm in a sleeve. Up to 36 months, children can wash their hands (with assistance), put dirty clothes in the hamper when asked, push and pull toys, and learn to use the toilet.

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S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2020

Once they are three years old, children can brush their teeth (with help), put on shoes (without tying laces), put dishes in the sink and put rubbish in the bin.

5. NORMALISE FAILURE

By teaching your child that mistakes are a normal part of the learning process, you help build their resilience. When it comes to the new drinking glasses in the Buderim centre, 3. GIVE CHOICES for example, Michelle says any breakages will “For young children, absolutely everything be dealt with safely and welcomed as valuable is adult-directed,” Michelle points out. learning opportunities. “We need to allow “Allowing children to make simple decisions children to make mistakes and be there to guide them to say, ‘You know what, that’s about things such as what they want to wear okay, I make mistakes or what they want to eat, helps sometimes too!’” set them up for success later in SANCTUARY life.”

EARLY LEARNING 6. TAP INTO THEIR Rather than asking your ADVENTURE INTERESTS child open-ended questions, try 140 Jones Road “We need to look at how each giving them two or three specific North Buderim child learns best and how they options to choose from.

QLD 4556 express themselves creatively, 07 5322 5247 and we need to adapt ourselves, 4. PRACTICE sanctuarylearning.com.au rather than children adapting MINDFULNESS to us,” explains Michelle.

Essential to encouraging young “Our educators look at a child’s strengths children’s independence is the parents’ and and interests, rather than weaknesses. caregivers’ ability to be present and connect To encourage a child’s independence, we with a child in a meaningful way. “You’ll have identify something that they’re interested the child’s full attention if they have your full in and then intentionally introduce that attention,” says Michelle. “It’s really about concept in a way that the child learns.” slowing down and connecting with integrity.

To find out more, call 07 5322 5247 or When we do that, we show children that visit sanctuarylearning.com.au they’re worthy and build their self-worth.”

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Revival of a butterfly

From a growing recycling program to the revival of a very rare butterfly species, Immanuel Lutheran College’s environmental ethic is creating a future generation of little eco legends.

L

ocated in 20 acres of bushland, Immanuel Lutheran College is the ideal setting for the next generation to learn about the importance of caring for the environment. The College’s commitment to developing an environmental ethic across the community came to fruition recently with the discovery of an incredibly rare caterpillar that is now calling the College home.

“Over the years, the students have been planting Pararistolochia praevenosa, commonly known as the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly Vine (listed critically endangered),” explained Colleen Long, Environmental and Indigenous Support Officer at Immanuel Lutheran College. “What a delight when we discovered this year several larvae of the Birdwing Butterfly (listed Vulnerable) happily chewing on the vines!”

The planting of the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly Vine was part of a much wider 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

College sustainability program.

“We have been steadily implementing programs across the College aimed at embedding an intrinsic environmental ethic with students and parents,” said teacher Rod Blom.

“This sustainability ethos is not just about classroom programs, but also about getting those fundamentals in place; embedding in the College community the importance of protecting the environment and adopting a sustained stewardship of the land for generations to come.”

By creating opportunities for students to see that all their small actions can make a big difference, students at Immanuel Lutheran College have developed a wonderful sense of achievement and autonomy in their eco projects.

“The key is to change behaviour and mindset,” said Rod. “It has become part of who we are as a community.”

T H E E N V I R O N M E N TA L C E N T R E

The process of implementing a sustainable ethos has been significantly expedited by the College’s onsite Environmental Centre that opened in 2019. With two large classroom spaces, a deck in the rainforest and a direct connection to the wetlands down below, the Centre offers a wealth of opportunities for students to complete science, sustainability tests, and environmental work.

“The Environmental Centre has made it possible for students to have a genuine indoor-outdoor classroom, with multipurpose areas and ready access to the rainforest,” said Rod. Following the addition of the Centre and the butterfly program, the College is now seeking to partner with Sunshine Coast University for undergraduate research into the butterfly vine planting, and Sunshine Coast Council on raising awareness of sustainable practices.

S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2020

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Larvae of the Birdwing Butterfly

E D U C AT I O N

Students study the local flora and fauna in the College’s 20-acre rainforest

PRESERVING THE OASIS

Blessed to reside in such a beautiful oasis, it has been important for the College to protect the rainforest, whilst also opening it up as a wonderful resource.

“To preserve, yet use the rainforest space respectfully, the Year 11/12 VET students have built raised boardwalks, where the bulk of the foot traffic was going,” said Rod. “The boardwalks are much less impactful on the forest and they are a real investment as they will be there for many years to come.”

“Students have enjoyed constructing them and found a great sense of accomplishment in building something to last. Maybe they will come back as parents and describe the build to their children one day!”

Being a First People’s area, it was also important to the College to involve the local Gubbi Gubbi people in any rainforest activity.

“The rainforest is the land of the Gubbi Gubbi people, so it is essential that we acknowledge this and protect the land,” said Rod. To connect the space to the indigenous community, the College is introducing an Indigenous Food Trail (bush tucker).

“We envisage additional trails that will incorporate ‘habitats for homes’ and sensory activities for the primary school students, as well as the Indigenous Food Trail and a Habitat Trail adjacent to the Primary School,” said Colleen.

“Information is being gathered for

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interpretive signage to highlight the Indigenous use of the plants found along the trail and in the adjoining forest areas,” continued Colleen.

MAPPING TO THE CURRICULUM

With so many initiatives in place across the College, the most exciting part for classroom teachers is mapping these experiences back to the classroom.

THE ECO SHED “Connecting the practical experiences with As well as the addition of the Environmental the theory does take some time to map, but Centre earlier in 2020, Immanuel Lutheran it’s important that the two are integrated College opened a purpose-built $50,000 in students’ learning,” said Rod. “Now we recycling shed. can connect a multitude of projects back “The students use the purpose-built to the environment. Even in math we can recycling shed to sort waste into different ask, ‘what does that mean about energy waste streams,” said Principal Colin Minke. consumption?’, ‘how much do we put back “A group of Eco Club members, into the grid?’. There’s lots of dressed in aprons and gloves, practical ways to implement and sort recyclables as part of integrate information.”

THE KEY IS TO the College’s Recycle-it-Right “It’s important that we all find CHANGE BEHAVIOUR program, and put them into ways in which it’s not just learning AND MINDSET... corresponding bins.”

IT HAS BECOME PART about the environment, but doing The Eco Club has almost OF WHO WE ARE AS A something with it.”

100 members now, with both a Students are already beginning COMMUNITY primary and secondary group. to take the future into their They meet for weekend beach own hands. “We are certainly clean-ups and school-based projects such as getting more ideas from the students,” said the worm farm.

Rod. “They are starting to become more “The College has two large working worm autonomous in what they do in the Eco Club. farms, one in the Primary School and one They generate their own projects and take at the Secondary School,” said Colleen. time to think about it.”

“The students put their food waste into the “We’ve also seen a drift towards compostable bins at the waste recovery station, environmental scientist courses and a this food waste then goes into the worm heightened awareness, where they want to farms with the castings and liquid getting act now, which is wonderful to see.” utilised in the school vegetable gardens.” www.immanuel.qld.edu.au K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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BABIES

MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHY The secrets to success

Lisa Schmidt: @lisaschmidt84

We chat to Brooke Duley from Sandpiper Photography to find out the do’s and don’ts of maternity and newborn photography Why do you believe maternity photographs are important?

What tips do you have for mums attending a maternity shoot?

Maternity is my favourite type of photography. When I had my second child, I didn't really care much about getting maternity photos. But after the baby was born, the images really struck me. My belly wasn't here anymore, so I think the images brought on strong feelings of sentimentality.

Also, the funny thing is that when I was pregnant, I felt awful – overstretched and I thought I looked terrible. However, when I looked at those photos, I realised I didn't actually look the way I felt. I realised wow – what my body can do is amazing! That bump is amazing!

When booking your photoshoot, think about what kind of look you are going for. Do you want studio or outdoor photos? If you want outdoor photos, what type of scenery do you prefer – beach, mountain top, in the bush?

On the day of the shoot, make sure you bring some comfortable shoes to walk around in. Bring a snack and some water in case you get hungry or thirsty. As some photoshoots are done at sunset and it can get quite chilly then, remember to bring a warmer layer.

How many weeks pregnant is best for maternity photography?

This really depends on the size of the mother's bump and how big she wants the bump to be in the photos. Most women want to be photographed when their bump is quite sizeable, so I usually recommend anywhere from 30 weeks onwards. While it is still possible to be photographed in the last few weeks, you do start to get quite tired by that stage, so I try to avoid it if possible.

What advice do you have for mums at a newborn shoot?

Be prepared to just sit and relax on the lounge while I photograph the baby. Newborn photoshoots do take a couple of hours, as we need to go with what the baby wants. If the baby arrives and wants to feed for 30 minutes, that is totally fine and I am used to that.

Actually, that's what happens most of the time. Once the baby is fed and sleepy, then the photoshoot starts.

I know how hard it can be to even just leave the house in those newborn days, so I have zero expectation for new parents to arrive on

time. I only schedule one shoot per day, so if we run over time it is not a problem.

How old should a newborn be for the best newborn shots?

For the style of newborn photography that I do, it’s best to photograph the newborn within the first two weeks. It is at this time that they are most sleepy, and also still easy to curl up into those lovely newborn poses. Saying that, it is not a hard and fast rule. I've photographed babies much older than that and I am still able to get adorable images. They are just different to the images I get of a baby under two weeks.

What makes your approach to portraits so unique?

I aim to create impactful portraits that really celebrate this moment in time. I want my portraits to standout, so I make sure to keep as much colour and vibrance in the images as possible. For my outdoor portraits, the surrounding environment plays a very important part in shaping the atmosphere of the image. I spend time before a session finding the exact spot in the desired location with the perfect light and the perfect frame for the subject.

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49

REVIEWS

THE POWER OF POSITIVE PRANKING

By Philip Bunting

A symphony of alarm clocks at assembly?

A stampede of fluffy guinea pigs?

For Casey, Cookie and Zeke, pranks are about more than just fun. They are determined to make a difference. And when the adults won’t listen, the kids will find a way to be heard – as long as they can stay out of detention!

The outrageous story of three best friends, one greedy mayor and a whole lot of pranking.

Perfect for inquisitive kids, Philip Bunting’s latest book is an insightful and humorous look at identity and what makes us who we are. We are all from the same place, and made of the same stuff, but we each see ourselves as individuals.

A journey into deepest inner space for anyone who has ever paused to wonder exactly who is wondering. Philip Bunting’s other titles include The Wonderful wisdom of ants, Koalas eat gumleaves, Kookaburas love to laugh, Mopoke, and Sandcastle.

By Nat Amoore

WHO AM I?

THE ODD 1S OUT: THE FIRST SEQUEL

By James Rallison

In this second instalment in the Odd 1s Out series, James Rallison returns with characters, stories and opinions on topics such as: The upside of a robot uprising, questionable pizza toppings, strange but completely reasonable fears, and invitations that don’t exist but should. Offering advice on accepting your quirks and growing up in the internet age, his fan-favourite comics are proving a hit with kids across the world.

TROLLS WORLD TOUR

In cinemas 17 September (CTC)

The Happiest Movie Ever will land in cinemas right in time for the September school holidays! Crowd favourites Poppy and Branch are back to discover their world is about to get a lot bigger and a whole lot louder with six different musical Trolls tribes. Starring Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick.

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S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2020

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

& shop

PLAY, EAT Enjoy

a great range of family friendly options at Kawana Shoppingworld:

• • • • •

Delicious food options in our Food Court & Outdoor Dining Precinct Planet Arcades: find them on Ground Floor of the Event Cinemas car park Event Cinemas: including the only Gold Class and Vmax on the Sunshine Coast Cheeky Little Monkeys Play Centre: find them near The Reject Shop Parents with Prams Parking and Parents’ Rooms

Join Mums & Co., our local community for Mums, Dads, Grandparents and anyone who takes care of little people. Be the first to hear out about special events and offers.

Join here: www.kawanashoppingworld.com.au/subscribe

new!

At Suncoast Little Learners we have always believed that nature play is essential to the well-being of early learners.

Kids need to get outside, get dirty, get exploring, get back to nature.

As a pioneer of the Bush Kindy concept, we have now introduced Beach Kindy. During the warmer months our Kindy students spend time at the beach. In cooler months our Kindy and Pre-Kindy spend their mornings exploring the wonderful rainforest within our campus.

Love. Learning. Adventure.

Spots available now in Pre-Kindy Enquiries: Krystle Cullen on 5451 3648 Suncoast Christian College, Cnr Schubert & Kiel Mtn Road, Woombye

suncoastlittlelearners.com.au

suncoastlittlelearners.com.au