Bayside Mamamag March 2015 by MamaMag

BAYSIDE

March 2015

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march on! I haven’t worked out quite how it happened, but apparently it’s March! I’m sure I was just writing about Christmas and sending my wee ones off to school and kindy, but Xmas holidays are beginning to feel like a distant memory and it’s almost time to start thinking about the next set of school holidays. I love summer, the kids love summer, but some how she came and went without much gusto. We did manage a few lazy arvos by the pool and a fabulous few days down in Rye over the Oz Day long weekend though. They have a fabulous playground on the foreshore at Rye and I wished it were here in Bayside so I could review it for you in all it’s glory. My kindy girl is doing three days day care in Elwood and we’ve been constantly delighted to discover Mr Whippy just outside the gate at pick up time. How convenient! And when the sun isn’t shining, the milder weather has called for different outings, like a trip to the new Inflatable World. I can’t believe no one came up with that idea earlier. One jumping castle is fun, but entire indoor sports centre full of them is amazing. Not surprisingly the kids have already decided that is THE location of this year’s birthday parties. And trust me it’s well worth a look. But it’s not all fun and games. March is an important month here at MamaMag HQ. We are thrilled to be launching Westside MamaMag this month. We’ve got an awesome local mama running it and it’s going to be great! But of course I’m still brining Bayside all the fun every month. This mag is, of course, for YOU, so if you have any ideas that you’d like to see in here, new and exciting businesses or stories of local people you think we’d love, let us know about it. And please don’t forget to support our local advertisers who allow us to have so much fun producing this little publication and bring it to you free every month. XX

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Contents Sleeping your way to a healthy bub 6 Advice from a sleep consultant Welcome to sunspots Skin care tips from endota

Are you CPR ready? Kidzaid CPR Challenge

1 of 75 double passes to the essential baby & toddler SHOW worth up to $44 each. 10–12 April 2015 Royal Exhibition Building

A pinch of salt 12 Soothing common childhood ailments

THE ESSENTIAL BABY & TODDLER SHOW

Mama of the month 16 We meet cookbook author Jodie Blight Parklife 18 Allambee Park Sandringham

Entries open March 1st 12.01am and close March 31st 2015 at 11.59pm. Passes valid for single day entry to The Essential Baby & Toddler Show Melbourne 2015. For further details and full terms & conditions visit mamamag.com.au

Easy Peasy Japanese Cooking with the kids

Mama can cook Easter BBQ salmon and choc muffins

Breastfeeding problems Introducing low level laser therapy

MamaMag is published monthly for the mums of the Bayside area by Grizzle Design Pty Ltd.

Turn the page This month’s top picks from Ulysses

ABN: 26 042 138 550. PO Box 8018 Brighton East VIC 3187 Phone: 1300 771 446 Email: info@mamamag.com.au www.mamamag.com.au

Eating to fight off PND Dietician Melanie McGrice’s tips

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Should I use a travel agent? 10 reasons why you should

Receive to conceive Egg donation in Australia

Apps for under $3 Cheaper than a take-away coffee!

Importance of early learning School readiness with toys

Smarty pants in training Children conquering the toilet

Fun for the kids Kid’s crafts and our colouring comp

MamaMag March 2015

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Editor in Chief: Sarah Cavalier Design and layout: Grizzle Design Distribution: Lara Schendzielorz Like to contribute an article or products for review or giveaway? submissions@mamamag.com.au Like to advertise in our next month’s issue? info@mamamag.com.au or download our media kit from www.mamamag.com.au The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publishing staff. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without permission of the publishers. Health related articles are designed to be informative and educational. They are not intended to provide specific medical advice or replace one-on-one advice from your health practitioner. Mamamag is printed locally (of course) by Fishprint Brighton, using 100% Waterless Printing. Fishprint is a ISO 14024 ‘Whole of Life Cycle’ certified printer. fishprint.com.au

Sleeping Your Way To A Sleep consulting is never dull. The hours, families, babies’ ages and of course personalities are always varied. What remains consistent in every family I assist is parents who are exhausted and desperate for a full night’s sleep. It never ceases to amaze me no matter what level of exhaustion the parents face (and believe me the sleeping situation that is some families’ reality would shock even the most hardened of parents), none are willing to put their own exhausted needs before what they feel is doing the right thing for their child. In their first year babies spend most of their time sleeping, about half of their sleep is spent in active and half in quiet sleep. This is proportionally more time spent in active sleep (or REM as it’s called later in life) than adults. There is good reason for them having so much of this active or light sleep, it is when their brains are busy developing at a tremendous rate. For this reason it is important to help your baby develop regular, healthy sleep patterns (of both active and quiet stages).

Sound familiar? “I’m exhausted and I have tried absolutely everything. She just seems to need constant attention, more than other babies do. I don’t know what I am doing wrong. I want her to be happier during the day and sleep through the night. We tried leaving her to cry-it-out once, it was awful and I stopped it after 20 minutes. Is this the only technique that you use? Does anything else work?”

Cry-it-out Probably the most common question I get asked is whether my method is to leave a baby to cry-itout, also known as controlled crying. The simple answer is no. The more complex answer is, I don’t have one method, the method I use depends on the baby (their age, diet, health etc) and their parents. Gauging the parent’s comfort levels and ability to follow through with a given technique is crucial. Parents simply won’t remain consistent with a new routine if it is something they don’t feel comfortable with, and rightfully so. This means that some families will decide that controlled crying is an option for them, for most however this is not the case and a baby’s cries are responded to promptly.

What else is there? A good sleep consultant will adapt the method they use for each family. This means there are countless methods used, none necessarily more or less successful than the other. The key to all of them is calmness and consistency. What I do is not magic, it is simply a matter of having the knowledge to understand babies’ patterns and needs. Then applying this knowledge to gently guide them in the direction of independent sleep.

Written by Hannah McDaide. Hannah is a paediatric sleep and routine consultant with a background in psychology. She is the Director at Healthy Baby Hub. www.healthybabyhub.com.au

Healthier, Happier Baby Is my baby old enough? Sleep training, a term I dislike, is generally frowned upon in the early months of a baby’s life. Some experts will say not before 6 months, others will say not before 4 months. Some will even advise not to expect a baby to sleep through until after the first year. I don’t like the term sleep training because it implies that if for the first 4, 6 or 12 months (depending on which advice you are following) you are struggling with an unsettled baby, there is nothing you can do until they are the right age. This is simply not the case. How a baby falls to sleep comes down to habit, that is how it has been taught from the beginning (whether intentionally or not) to go to sleep. I believe my job is to educate parents on how to develop healthy sleep habits for their baby, which in my opinion can begin from day one. By gently developing healthy sleep habits from the beginning, parents can prevent bad habits from forming and thus avoid having to do any form of sleep training down the track. So although sleep training may come with age restrictions, equipping yourself with knowledge on babies’ sleep habits and gently guiding your baby towards independent sleep can start from day one. The earlier the better.

How long does it take? Developing new sleep habits can take anywhere from 24 hours to a couple of months. It will depend on the method being used, the age of your baby or toddler and the consistency of the parents. If using the advice of a sleep consultant, you should at the very least be able see improvements within the first couple of days of implementing a new routine.

What kind of help is available? If you decide to enlist the help of a sleep consultant it is important to find someone you feel comfortable with and who adapts their methods to meet your family’s specific needs. Sleep guidance services can range from informative group workshops, phone consultations, individual home consultations or overnight support.

And finally... For many families the first year of parenthood is determined primarily by sleep, or a lack thereof. Many new parents expect it to be something their baby just does instinctively. Yet sleeping independently is a learned habit, and like everything else we teach our children eg tying shoe laces, brushing teeth and using manners, takes time, a gentle approach and consistency. The method to use fundamentally comes down to what the parents are comfortable with for their family. As a parent, increasing your knowledge on your baby’s sleep needs and habits can save the whole family many unnecessary sleepless nights. Healthy sleep habits will developmentally give your baby the best possible head start.

welcome to sunSpots Did you enjoy summer? Loved the beautiful weather? Spent lots of time outdoors? Well now you may be noticing brown or red flat spots on your face? A little scaly? A little stingy when you are in the sun? Welcome to sunspots! Where there is one, there is more - sorry they come with friends, visible and invisible. Sunspots that are invisible are said to be 10-times more frequent under the skin than the ones that are able to be seen. Unfortunately if you are seeing sunspots now, the damage was done some 10 years ago. The good news is that sunspots, or solar keratoses are NOT a skin cancer. But they are an early and serious warning sign to protect your skin from the sun. They are most commonly due to over-exposure to the sun. You will often also hear them being referred to as hyperpigmentation and put in the same bucket as age spots, dark spots and brown marks. If you are not 100% sure that what you are seeing is a sunspot please go and see your doctor to get it checked out. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially considering the beautiful sun-drenched country in which we live has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. According to the Cancer Council Queensland, ‘occasionally, sunspots may develop into a skin cancer, however the probability is low…..(but) skin cancers are more common with people with sunspots’. Once you are sure that what you are seeing is in fact sunspots, the good news is that are generally harmless and there is a way to get rid of them. To treat the sunspots you need to remove the damaged skin, so that the new skin can come to the surface. There are a variety of options including–natural therapies, creams, in-spa treatments and the knife or similar invasive therapies.

Natural therapies said to have a lightening effect on sunspots are applying lemon juice, juice from a red onion, Vitamin E capsules, green tea bags and/or buttermilk regularly on your damaged skin. Those choosing this option will need to be particularly vigilant in applying sunscreen, as these treatments will leave your skin more prone to sun damage. You may also experience some dryness, so extra moisturiser will also be the go, as well as some deep breathing–you will need it as you practice some patience. Going natural is a beautiful thing, but results take time. Creams can work on both visible and invisible sunspots, the view is that you really need to keep at it if you are using a cream, no giving up or expecting results for at least 4 weeks. Zoe Foster Blake on her Australian ZoTheySay beauty blog recommends trying Dermalogica’s Tri-active Cleanse which exfoliates skin and helps treat discolouration, and if you are going down the natural path, Vitamin C is ‘a stupendously good skin brightener’ according to Zoe. In-spa treatments such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels are great for removing the top layer of damaged skin, and treating your skin with the right mix of super charged active ingredients to help the fresh skin surface. You should see results quickly after 3-4 treatments. ZoTheySay recommends an in-spa peel every 2-3 weeks for stunning results, coupled with a complimentary at home routine. Peels have come a long way and are a far cry from the peels that left you red faced and in-hiding for a week. Our Facebook page competition this month is offering one lucky MamaMag reader a tailored peel. Alternatively if you are game you can go under the knife or try even more aggressive options. These include: Cryotherapy which involves freezing off the spot with liquid nitrogen, the damaged skin will peel off after 10-20 days, thicker spots may leave a scar. Curettage, which is scrapping it off. Cautery, burning it off, also

leaves a scab after a few weeks and may scar. Excision, which is basically cutting it out, most likely to be used if there is suspected skin cancer. Any treatment is not permanent, sunspots are likely to keep surfacing, so you will need to keep working at them with your new routine. The damage was done 10-20 years ago when education wasn’t as good as it is now, and unfortunately it can’t be reversed. So while we can maintain regimes and treatments going forward, the ultimate fighter is prevention. Which of course we are responsible for instilling in our children and saving them from seeing the spots later in life! For us, sunspots are an early warning sign to take extra care of your skin against the sun. Wear a good SPF sunscreen every day. Find one that doesn’t make you break out and apply it. It’s much easier than treating sun damage.

Written by Jovita Gartlan from Endota Spa. Endota stocks dermalogica and provides in-spa microdermabrasion and peels. Sources - Cancer Council Queensland, http://www.knowyourownskin.com.au/sundamage/the-effects-of-sun-damage/#sunspots, (http://naturalbeautytips.co/how-to-get-ridof-sunspots-on-face-and-skin/), http://www. zotheysay.com/how-to-properly-treat-andprevent-hyperpigmentation

are you crp ready? In Australia each year 260 children die and 58,000 children are hospitalised from accidental injuries. Would you know how to help your child if one of these incidences left them unconscious and not breathing? For every minute that CPR is not performed when needed, the chance of the child’s survival decreases by 10%. After 4 minutes without oxygen, you child will suffer irreversible brain damage.

260 Australian children die & 58,000 are hospitalised every year. What happens in the first five minutes holds the key to saving their life. It is not realistic to expect professional help to arrive within this short amount of time. We therefore need more people of all ages who are trained and willing to provide immediate CPR to our kids, while waiting for help to arrive. KidzAid founder Brionhy Westbrook had a terrifying experience with her own baby, which motivated her to help provide training for parents. “My 5 month old daughter, Poppy, suddenly became pale, floppy and unconscious in my arms,” Brionhy recalls. “Fortunately, being an experienced emergency nurse, I managed to get myself through, but it left me thinking what would another parent do?” As a result KidzAid Paediatric First Aid Training was born and each year provides comprehensive courses for parents all over Australia. To make it even easier for parents to gain this vital knowledge, Brionhy and her team will convert the Palladium at Crown Melbourne into a large training centre on Good Friday this year. Nurses, paramedics, and medical practitioners will all volunteer their time to teach Melbourne families the life saving skill of paediatric CPR and set a world record. All the proceeds from the day will support the Good Friday Appeal for the Royal Children’s

Hospital. Entry is only $5 per person or $15 per family, with 100% of this fee being donated directly to the appeal. The event will also host family fun day activities, such as celebrity CPR challenges, jumping castles, roving princesses and superheroes, activity stations, play equipment, parenting experts and fundraising shop. Don’t forget to bring along gold coins to participate in all the fundraising funds (of course notes will be accepted as well!) Families are encouraged to attend together, with the training sessions also providing parents with the opportunity to teach their children from a young age the importance of always having up-to-date CPR knowledge. Children are invited to come dressed as their favourite hero (many of whom will be available onsite during the day to meet and have a photo with) and participate in the junior CPR hero training program.

For every minute that CPR is not performed when needed, the chance of the child’s survival decreases by 10%. Registrations are now open, however there will be limited places, so get in early to take advantage of this great opportunity. Don’t forget to encourage grandparents, carers, babysitters and next door neighbours to participate as well. You want to ensure there are as many people as possible in your network who can save your child’s life. The CPR Challenge is powered by KidzAid, proudly presented by Priceline, and supported by Crown Melbourne, Australian First Aid Training, Melbourne’s Child, Dorevitch and Zoll. Friday 3rd April at Palladium Room, Crown. Paediatric CPR training for only $5.00 per person or $15 for a family of 4. Register at www.cprchallenge.com.au.

MamaMag spa-love offer It’s me-time-March with a little spa-liday at endota spa Brighton

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A pinch of salt

to soothe common childhood ailments With up to 40% of children now suffering from allergies , parents in Australia are opening up to the latest complementary therapy to help battle symptoms associated with common ailments, from the winter cold to hay fever, asthma and eczema. The ingredient? A pinch of salt. Ancient natural salt caves dating back to the 1800s have paved the way for today’s more scientific salt therapy (also known as halo therapy), helping to relieve the symptoms of thousands of young Australians suffering from debilitating respiratory and skin ailments, while also aiding general wellbeing. So what is it and how does it work? Salt therapy is a non-invasive, chemicalfree therapy designed to relieve congestion, inflammation and allergies of the airways and skin. By widening the airways of the respiratory tract, the micro salt particles reach deep into the respiratory system loosening up the mucus, which helps to reduce inflammation. Salts of the Earth Hampton owner Kari McCormack was inspired to start the business after finding salt therapy beneficial for her 6 year old son who suffers with Asthma and her mother who also sufferers with Asthma and repeated bouts of pneumonia a snoring husband and a daughter with eczema.

“We tried salt therapy and I all couldn’t believe the immense change in each of their conditions. My husband’s snoring was dramatically reduced, my son’s asthma was able to be controlled and have we no longer needed to attend the emergency department at the RCH hospital. My daughter’s eczema has completely disappeared and we are now in control of it and my mother’s asthma has significantly improved and she has not had to endure further bursts of pneumonia.”

The best part – children don’t even know they’re being treated. Kids enter a room with an adult (or the whole family) and simply sit back, play and breathe in an ambient setting, designed to mimic a natural salt cave, filled with toys, a fish tank, bean bags and a TV. During the 45 minute session, a Halogenerator grinds up pharmaceutical grade salt to tiny particles that become airborne and dispersed. Salt therapy is not a cure and works in conjunction with the sufferer’s medical treatment, helping to relieve symptoms of a range of common respiratory conditions be it ongoing or seasonal, from asthma to bronchitis as well as common skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

“It’s so rewarding to own a business that changes peoples lives. We have people with a lot of different conditions that come into our centre but recently we have had life changing improvements with people who have severe eczema and a number of others with debilitating respiratory conditions. To see all these people starting to enjoy life again is incredibly fulfilling.” Husband and wife duo, David and Katharine Lindsay, founded Salts of the Earth in 2010 after seeing overseas first-hand the effects salt therapy had on David’s father, a long term sufferer of chronic respiratory illnesses. The centres now cater to more than 1,000 appointments each week – up to 40% of those customers are children. Dr John Tickell, Salts of the Earth ambassador and medical doctor, says there are scientifically proven benefits in combining medical and natural therapy.

“There is science backing salt therapy, proving that breathing in minute salt particles does work to relieve symptoms, when used in conjunction with regular medication prescribed by your GP. By relieving the symptoms of a condition, medication can become more effective, resulting in better management and stronger relief,” says Dr Tickell.

“People who suffer from respiratory ailments have a condition that either inflames the lungs or produces excessive mucus. Salt can only clear a certain amount at a time, which is why we encourage customers to head into Salts of the Earth for a consultation first so the staff can understand their needs and recommend the best management plan for them.” Salt therapy is fast gaining momentum in Australia with consumers reaping its benefits. Salts of the Earth is open 7 days a week. Bookings are essential and can be made online through their website at www.saltsoftheearth.com.au Salts of the Earth Hampton Ph: 9521 6874 Email: Hampton@saltsoftheearth.com.au Salts of the Earth Albert Park Ph: 9078 5634 Email: Albertpark@saltsoftheearth.com.au

Jake’s eczema was so bad he needed cold bandages on his skin. However, with consistent Salt Therapy and regular salt baths, in just three weeks it dramatically helped control his Eczema symptoms and cleared his skin. By continuing to have regular salt therapy sessions Jake’s skin remains clear and he no longer needs creams. Not only has it helped control his eczema, it has also helped Jake’s croup and hay fever. “We began our salt therapy sessions shortly after our twins, Arlo & Macy, were discharged from hospital. Arlo & Macy were born at 25 weeks gestation & spent a total of 11 weeks in hospital (nine at the Neonatal Intensive Special Care unit at the Royal Women’s Hospital & two at the Special Care Nursery at St Vincent’s Private Hospital). After only a few sessions we noticed significant improvement in their breathing; we could no longer hear them breathing heavily & the snoring & snorting disappeared plus as an added bonus the whole family found the sessions very relaxing! I hadn’t realised how much trouble I was having with my breathing, you just think that you are unfit. After my first session, I found I wasn’t getting breathless anymore with simple tasks 13

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MAMA of the month This month we talk to Bayside mum of two boys, Jodie Blight. Jodie is the author of Summer Table, a delicious cookbook that works with her Hello Table phone app, which compiles shopping lists for each recipe by scanning a QR code in the book.

With a background working as a Company Director in the Finance industry, how did you end up writing a cookbook? We moved our family to the Netherlands with my husband’s work, when our first born (Benjamin) was only 1½ years old. Moving half way around the world was a huge decision and an even bigger adjustment. Living in a small Dutch village for 4 years with no family support, no takeaway food shops, the supermarket closing at 5 pm on weekdays and no Sunday shopping, I was forced to change my approach to many things including cooking and had to creatively plan and prepare our family meals. And that is where the concept of Summer TABLE was born. What were the first steps you took to turn the idea into a reality? I did a lot of research and asked even more questions. I was so amazed at how helpful people were and how they were more than happy to share their knowledge and provide advice. Then I just sat and wrote, then cooked, then wrote, then cooked, then wrote some more. There were days when my husband pleaded with me ‘no more lamb’. It wasn’t glamorous I sat in my kitchen at a little alcove (½m wide) with my laptop. Tell us a little bit about the Hello Table app and how it works: Every recipe in the book has a QR code scanning it with your smartphone creates a shopping list for that recipe on your phone in the app, with all the items sorted into the different supermarket sections. If you are organised, you can scan a number of recipes to create a comprehensive shopping list for the week.

We all still love hard copy cookbooks, especially when we find a book we can love and can trust, but we are always looking for ways to make things easier. Summer TABLE combines the charm of an old world, hard copy cookbook with the new world of technology. Did the idea for the book or the app come about first? The book was first but the app seemed like a natural progression. Our lives are all so busy and we are always looking for something to make it that bit easier. What is your favourite all time family friendly dish? I don’t actually have just one. My favourites are the ones which everyone loves and the recipes they keep going back for seconds (and thirds) - such a diplomatic thing to say but it’s true. My eldest son loves the Moroccan Lamb. My youngest son’s favourites are Vietnamese Chicken Noodles, Chicken Fajitas, Pork San Choi Bow, Crumbed Flathead Tails, Pork and Asian Apple Slaw and Five-Spice Chicken (depends on which day of the week as to what makes it to the top of his favourites list). My husband’s favourite is Crunchy Veal Schnitzel and my Juicy Roast Chicken. I just love anything that is fast and yummy. What’s your advice for someone who has an idea? Just do it! Stop dreaming, or coming up with reasons not to do something and just give it a go. Making mistakes is par for the course and what you learn from them is invaluable for both your project and also your life. Making mistakes isn’t a sin, but not giving it a go in case you make a mistake is!

What is next in the pipeline for the Hello Table brand? Is there another book on the horizon? I’ve just finalised re-writing Summer TABLE for the US and UK markets and releasing over there this month. I am also in the process of writing a winter version which I hope to release in Australia next year. Guess what it’s called?! I’d also love to set up a consulting style business to help other people with their projects and ideas. One of the things I struggled with through this journey was not having someone to bounce ideas off or get advice from. Now I’d like to be the ‘one’ who people feel they can turn to for a different perspective or just to rant if they want to. Do you have any funny parenting tales that will give us a giggle? Lots – where do I start. Maybe a food tale: My youngest son (who was a difficult fussy eater) has become a fantastic assistant in the kitchen. I have taught him how to use a sharp knife properly and how to make salad dressings and he is now the cook extraordinaire. Often he will ask if he can help make dinner and when the compliments are flying (in his direction) he will turn to me and whisper “sorry I’m getting all the credit mum”. But seriously, it’s been a great way to get him to try (and much to his surprise, love) new foods. James for many years called prawns – porns. So there have been many embarrassing discussions as he declared his new found love of porn. Not food related: We were driving to school a few years ago and someone stopped right in front of me at a T intersection and blocked me from turning. My youngest yelled from the back “Give him the finger mum!” Horrified, I turned to see him wagging his pointer finger, like I do to him when he is in trouble. Finally where can we find your book? For fast, delicious and healthy recipes, Summer TABLE is available from Big W, Dymocks and independent bookstores nationwide or online at www.hellotable.com.au. Facebook: www.facebook.com/hellotable Check out Jodie’s amazing Barbecue Salmon with Orange and Fennel Salad recipe, just in time for Good Friday, on page 24!

Parklife Allambee Park (truck park!) Corner Neptune Street and Sandringham Road, Sandringham Upon putting the word out to the Bayside Mamas for a park to review for this month, Allambee Park, more affectionately known as “truck park” came up as a park with character to explore. So on a scorching summer’s day we lathered on the sunscreen curious as to what we would find at truck park. Would there be a giant digger to climb, a truck like play structure? The anticipation almost got too much for the little toddler in the backseat. And then there it was, ‘Truck City!’ There were trucks everywhere!! Trucks in the big sandpit, trucks on the little rise under the tree. Trucks gone on adventure into the playground!! Many loved trucks left for everyone to play with and share. I began to count, but then gave up and can just report that this a little kid’s truck haven. It’s a quirky little space and the trucks really stand out to make this park a little more than just your everyday local park. Once Little Miss got over the truck factor, which took quite a while, we moved on to the actual play equipment! There’s swings, a sea-saw, a couple of ride-on spring characters as well as two slides. Added in value includes a spiral climbing frame, monkey bars, naughts and crosses and colour counting beads, a curved ladder and a pole to climb or slide down like a fireman! But you’re more likely to find construction workers at play here, rather than fire fighters. This park is all about the trucks! And the novelty factor is worth a visit if this is not your local truck pit! You’ll find plenty of shade with lots of mature trees and shrubs surrounding giving it a mini-reserve-like feel, a water fountain, chairs, picnic tables and plenty of grassy area to run about or kick the footy. You might even spot Bob the Builder hard at work!

MamaMag park of the month!

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* The fine print: Offers valid for new patients of the service. Each individual is entitled to each offer once only. Not valid with any other offer. Only valid by appointment and offer must be mentioned at time of booking. Private Health Insurance Rebates do still apply. Only valid for appointments conducted prior to 31st March 2015. Gift Vouchers can not be purchased for these offers. Offer excludes appointments with Jade Johnstone.

Easy Peasy Japanese! All too often meal times can become a stressful battle ground, where the cutest of curly haired princesses can suddenly morph into the hardest renegade fighter at a Mexican standoff. Sometimes the difference between contented family happiness or all out food warfare can hang on a spoonful of peas or a stem of broccoli. Can you imagine a world in which your child is interested and excited to cook, eats a large variety of food, and is actually keen to help you in the kitchen? Maybe it’s not as far-fetched as you would think. It is so important to get kids interested in food from an early age and cooking with them is a really effective way to do it. As babies they can sit in a rocker and watch you cook, toddlers can grab a spoon and help mix, and there is no reason why they can’t be cooking breakfast for you at the age of four. We are all very safety conscious these days, and rightly so. Kitchens can be dangerous and kids must be supervised at all times when they are cooking. However, let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water. Give your child a modicum of independence and choice when it comes to meals and you might find your fussy eater is suddenly a gourmet. Well maybe not, but try letting your food dictator prepare the family meal next time you have a spare afternoon. Let them take control, from picking a recipe to laying the table. Take them to the shops to select the ingredients for their chosen meal and get them to smell, taste and feel for the best produce and then pay for it at the counter. Then help them prepare their ingredients or follow a recipe and encourage them to taste as they cook. Don’t be afraid to let them use a knife or shake a hot pan or two, or if they are too young, let them sit close by and instruct you as their helper. Why not have a sushi night and let them get creative in the kitchen. They can choose their own fillings and taste as they go, and best of all, once you have bought the equipment and core ingredients it is super simple and quick to go Japanese any night of the week!

Can you imagine a world in which your child is interested and excited to cook, eats a large variety of food, and is actually keen to help you in the kitchen? Ingredients (Makes 4 rolls)

Tips

- 2 cups sushi rice

- Keep a finger bowl of water handy to stop the rice sticking to your hands and to wet the edges of your seaweed sheets.

- 2 cups water - ½ cup rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon caster sugar - Choice of fillings cut into thin strips or batons (e.g. cucumber, avocado, carrot, spring onion, sushi-grade raw fish, smoked salmon, cooked chicken) - 4 nori sheets (can be found at the supermarket) - Soy sauce/pickled ginger to serve

Method 1. Wash rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Put rice and water in a pan and bring to the boil, then simmer with a lid on for 12 mins until water is absorbed. Take off the heat and allow to stand with lid on for a further 10 mins. Combine vinegar and sugar and stir through the rice and then allow to cool. 2. Lay a square of nori shiny side down on your rolling mat. Spoon enough rice onto the nori to pat down to a thin layer, leaving a good inch-wide border of nori showing. Lay your chosen filling in a line across the middle of the rice. Wet your fingers and dampen the nori border furthest from you and then gently lift the end of the mat closest to you, and roll it over the ingredients to enclose. Continue rolling the mat forward to make a complete roll. With one hand on top, gently roll mat back and forth a few times to make a nice round shape. 3. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls at 2cm intervals and serve with soy sauce for dipping.

- Make sure the rice and all the ingredients are cold before rolling. Spooning hot rice onto a baking tray or chopping board can speed up cooling. Once you’ve mastered the nori roll it’s just the beginning, why not…. - Try inside-out rolls by wrapping your rolling mat in cling wrap and starting with a layer of rice, then nori and then the filling. Or using wet hands, shape a ball of rice and then lay fish, prawn, or avocado on top and wrap with a thin band of nori. - Try fruit sushi for dessert. Make the sushi rice with coconut milk in place of rice vinegar for a sweet treat. Place a piece of gladwrap on a board, and lay out a flat circle of thinly sliced strawberry or kiwi, then drop a ball of sushi rice in the middle. Draw together the edges of the gladwrap to form a ball. Use strawberry or chocolate sauce for dipping. Yum! - Accompany your sushi with Japanese pancakes. Mix 2 eggs, 2 cups of flour and 1 cup of cooked mushrooms, bacon and cabbage together in a bowl to form a batter and then drop a tablespoon of mixture into a frying pan and shallow fry for a couple of minutes either side. Serve with Japanese mayonnaise, BBQ sauce and picked ginger.

By Victoria Mackey and Emma Keating www.messyfaces.com.au Messy Faces delivers healthy and delicious home cooked frozen meals for kids. Keep them in your freezer for those nights when you’ve simply run out of time to cook.

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MY SON LOVES HIS TEACHERS We know the key to having a happy, thriving, enthusiastic boy at kinder (or school) are his teachers. Come and learn why…

“

James has photos of his teachers on the fridge. He kisses them and tells them he loves them.

“

James’ Mum

ELC & JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING

Thursday 12 March Thursday 7 May 9:30am

Friday 22 May 9:15am

Book online or ring 8591 2202. To learn more about our curriculum especially designed for boys visit www.weteachboys.org

BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL WE TEACH BOYS CRICOS Provider No. 00132K

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Casual sessions for up to 2.5hrs 4 years and under $7, 5 years and older $14

Opening & Party Hours

Saturdays year round: 10am – 6pm Sundays plus all School Holiday weekdays: 10am – 4pm

Party Packages (for 12 kids)

BYO FOOD (90 minutes): $180 (additional kids @ $14 each) CATERED (90 minutes): $265 (additional kids @ $21 each)

4 Railway Avenue - Oakleigh Ph. 9568 7000 www.inflatableworldoz.com 23

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mama can Cook! Barbecue Salmon with Orange and Fennel Salad Serves: 4 | Prep: 10min | Cook: 4-6min Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, skin on Zest of 1 lemon 1 tablespoon baby capers, chopped 1 fennel bulb, finely sliced (keep the leafy fronds) 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper 4 handfuls mixed lettuce leaves 2 oranges, peeled and sliced Â˝ red onion, finely sliced 1 handful coriander, chopped Dressing: 3 tablespoons orange juice 6 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard

Method: On a board, chop lemon zest, capers and leafy fennel fronds together. Rinse and pat the salmon dry. On the top side of each salmon fillet, cut three or four shallow slits in the flesh. Oil and cover with lemon zest mixture, trying to get it into the slits. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. On a mediumâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;high barbecue, cook for 2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;3 minutes each side. Start with the skin side down and when you turn it over remove the skin and place skin on the hotplate to continue cooking until crisp. If the fillets have a thick and a thin end, you may want to cut them in half, as the thin piece will need much less time to cook. Combine lettuce, orange, sliced fennel and onion in a large salad bowl. To make dressing, shake ingredients in a jar until combined. Taste and adjust to your liking. Pour over salad and toss together then sprinkle with coriander leaves and serve with salmon.

Find this and more yummy recipes in Summer Table, by local Bayside mum Jodie Blight. Find out more at www.hellotable.com.au

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always a good time for chocolate, isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it? PLUS these have hidden fruit and vegies!

Nourish Me Choc Zucchini Muffins Makes: 12 | Prep Time: 5min | Cook time: 15min Ingredients: 300g organic wholemeal spelt flour 2 ripe bananas 30g organic raw cocoa 130g organic rapadura sugar 8 medjool dates 1 grated zucchini 120g coconut oil 2 organic eggs dash vanilla extract 1 tsp bicarb 1 tsp baking powder 200ml milk (almond or coconut are nice) 1/2 cup desiccated coconut 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Find more nourishing ideas at www.123nourishme.com.au

These gorgeous muffins are filled with the most beautiful ingredients. There are sweet without being too sweet and incredibly nourishing. This recipe makes a brilliant cake, muffins or mini muffins. Method: Grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture, then set aside. Blend dates and banana until it forms a paste. In a bowl hand mix banana and date paste with all other ingredients to a smooth consistency. Place mixture in a 12 pan muffin tin and cook at 180 degrees for around 15-20 or until firm. Test with a skewer! 25

Breastfeeding problems? Introducing Low Level Laser Therapy The joy of a new baby can be quickly forgotten with the onset of breastfeeding problems. We’ve all heard the stories of mums battling the pain of damaged nipples, blocked ducts or mastitis while breastfeeding a baby. To date, the treatment options for mums experiencing such painful problems have been thin on the ground. The good news is that with the arrival of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in maternity here in Australia, all that is changing. LLLT is a new treatment designed to accelerate the healing of our body’s tissues. Including mums life giving nipples! So, we wanted to share a little with you about how LLLT works, when it’s best used and what a typical treatment with mumsmilk looks like.

What’s Low Level Laser Therapy? LLLT has been used successfully in almost every area of human and veterinary medicine where accelerated wound healing, pain relief, anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling effect is required. In Maternity, midwives and lactation consultants in Germany, Austria, South Africa and Brazil have been using LLLT with great results for some time. They all value its natural healing power as an effective therapy with no side effects, low cost and ease of application. mumsmilk founder, Gabi Eckereder (midwife and lactation consultant) now offers LLLT in her bayside practice with outstanding results. In the medical world LLLT is referred to as a ‘regulation and photo therapy’. This means it reactivates the metabolism of destroyed or damaged cells by naturally stimulating the cells own powerful healing mechanism. This photochemical reaction is a little like the way skin absorbs sunlight to produce Vitamin D. Laser therapy is a very gentle and painless treatment with no known side-effects when applied by a trained practitioner. Mums sometimes report a very minor tingling on application - a sign that the tissue is responding to the stimulation in real time. LLLT (in contrast to the hard laser used in surgery or hair removal) does not destroy precious tissues.

When is it used? - Sore, damaged nipples - Blocked ducts - Mastitis - Healing problems after birth injuries (eg. tear, episiotomy, caesarean scar) - Haemorrhoids For breastfeeding mums, LLLT is highly effective where accelerated wound healing and speedy pain relief is required. The majority of mums with nipple trauma report accelerated healing of the nipple and pain relief following their first treatment. The anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling effect of LLLT is also hugely beneficial in clearing blocked ducts and supporting the healing process in mums experiencing mastitis. Here LLLT becomes a powerful alternative treatment when antibiotics need to be avoided. LLLT also comes into it’s own with any wound healing issues post birth. When used for painful or slow healing injuries on mum’s perineum or caesarian scar, LLLT provides quick relief and marked improvement. LLLT is also helpful in the treatment of painful haemorrhoids.

What does a mumsmilk treatment look like? LLLT is completely painless and can be applied in the clinic or in your own home. The duration and frequency of treatment depends on the severity of the trauma and the individual’s healing response. In the case of nipple trauma, a progression in the wound healing can often be observed directly after the initial treatment. While LLLT can be a highly effective alternative treatment, it’s vital that we get a full picture of mum’s individual situation prior to treatment. This typically involves a thorough assessment of mum and baby and an observation of a breastfeed. Only then can we identify and address the underlying cause of mum’s breastfeeding challenges. Now, there’s no need to endure the stress of breastfeeding problems caused by nipple trauma. The healing powers of LLLT are here. It might be just the treatment the midwife ordered! And the solution that returns mum and baby to the bliss of joyful breastfeeding.

Written by Gabi Eckereder Founder of mumsmilk - care for mum & baby Midwife & Lactation Consultant facebook.com/mumsmilk

turn the page I want to be a Lion Tamer, Ruby Brown, Illust. Ailsa Coburn, $14.95 The “I Want to Be a ..” series of board books is all about kids’ dream jobs, depicted exactly the way they imagine them to be. The books have bright pictures and fun text and so are sure to be a hit with youngsters. While the stories are probably suited to the 2-4 age group, the bright colourful pictures will appeal to all ages. Also in the series – I want to be an Astronaut. Suitable for Age 2 plus Thelma the Unicorn, Aaron Blabey, $16.99 A great new picture book from one of my favourite Australian children’s authors and as always there is subtle message that is imparted. Thelma is an ordinary pony who longs to be more. One day, she spots a carrot on the ground and ties it to her head, just before a skidding truck spills pink paint and glitter all over her. Thelma is now looks like a unicorn! Thelma quickly rises to fame, but does she really want all the attention or would she be happier as her old self again? Suitable for Age 3 upwards Penelope Perfect: Project Best Friend, Chrissie Perry, $14.95 This is a story that many parents can relate to. While the main character, Penelope, wants to be “perfect” and most of the time she is good, sensible and calm, sometimes she is bossy, angry and frustrated. Penelope doesn’t have a best friend but really wants one and new girl, Brittany, might just fit the role. However, Penelope soon finds out that being a friend takes a lot of work and isn’t always easy when you are trying to be perfect. Sometimes, the best idea is to forget to try! Suitable for Grade 2 and above Tombquest 1: Book of the Dead, Michael Northrop, $7.99 This series is one for children who like adventure books with history and mythology. The main character, Alex is very sick and his mother tries to save his life by using “The Lost Spells of the Egyptian Book of the Dead”. However, in doing so evil mythical creatures come back to life threatening the future of the world and Alex’s mother disappears. Alex and his friend Ren find themselves in a battle against evil to find his mum and save the world. This book’s smaller size makes it perfect for readers who are too young for the popular Percy Jackson books or who find thick books daunting, however if your child doesn’t like scary things you might want to wait until they are a little older than the recommended age. Suitable for Grade 3 and above

Our monthly kid’s books are brought to you by our friends at Ulysses Bookstore. They are passionate about their children’s books with an extensive range, informed staff, and they love nothing better than to inspire children’s reading with their programme of taking children’s authors to visit local schools. In addition, they have an extensive range of fiction and non-fiction titles for their adult customers. Ulysses Bookstore, 33 Melrose Street, Sandringham Ph 9521 8020, www.ulyssesbookstore.com.au 28

gabi eckereder

Baby Hampers and Baby Gifts

midwife (rm) lactation consultant (ibclc) mobile 0431 737 339

mumsmilk can see you in your own home or at our bayside consulting rooms. 7 days a week. Celebrate a new arrival with a beautiful Baby Hamper or Gift from Little Turtle Baby

Come and visit us at Stand E23 at

antenatal education postnatal care breast feeding support low level laser therapy mumsmilk.com.au facebook.com/mumsmilk

Daily classes from 12-2pm For kids aged 4 - 12 yrs old For bookings call 9598 7255

MON 30 MAR TUE 31 MAR WED 1 APR THUR 2 APR FRI 3 APR FRI 3 APR SAT 4 APR SUN 5 APR MON 6 APR TUE 7 APR WED 8 APR THUR 9 APR FRI 10 APR FRI 10 APR SAT 11 APR SUN 12 APR

Biscuit decorating Bunny ear making Easter basket making Easter mask painting Plaster painting Kids entertainment Easter basket making Easter egg hunt Biscuit decorating Mask making Loom band Badge making Plaster painting Kids entertainment Colouring competition Kids entertainment

CNR BEACH & BAY ROADS, SANDRINGHAM PH. 9598 7255 WWW.SANDRINGHAMHOTEL.COM.AU Live Local - Shop Local - and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to mention MamaMag!

eating to fight off Post Dietitian Melanie McGrice discusses omega-3 fatty acids, their role in post-natal depression and what you can do to make sure you’re getting enough. For most women, having a baby is the most significant life changing event they will ever experience. It is usually a happy time, however with all the changes that new mums have to adjust to in combination with a hurricane of hormonal fluctuations and less sleep than studying for a medical exam, it is common to experience changes in your emotions and mood. When emotional distress is persistent and disabling it can reach the level of clinical depression otherwise known as post-natal depression, PND. Unfortunately PND is not a rarity; studies estimate that approximately 10-15% of all new mothers will be affected in some way.

If you’re planning for a baby it is recommended that you start increasing your Omega-3 intake 6 months prior to conception to allow time to build up stores.

DHA, are important for the development of the brain, eyes and central nervous system of your growing baby. Omega-3s are passed during pregnancy to your baby via your placenta as well as through breast milk once your bub is born. The amount of Omega-3 passed onto your baby is dependent on your dietary intake therefore it is essential for you to ensure you are having adequate Omega-3 intake, particularly during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Regretfully, many Australian women don’t have enough Omega-3 in their diet and so their own stores are drawn upon, leaving you depleted which may increase the risk of PND. Although there is still debate as to its mechanisms, it is believed that Omega-3 fatty acids assist in carrying mood chemicals such as serotonin in the brain. International guidelines recommend that pregnant women consume at least 200mg of DHA each day. PND is serious, but don’t give up! It’s encouraging to know that there are really simple strategies that you can incorporate in your daily diet to minimise your risk of developing PND.

In fact, in the year after childbirth a woman is more likely to need psychological help than at any other time in her life. PND is a serious condition not only affecting the new mum, but it can also be debilitating to close relationships and can even affect the level of mother-infant interaction. There is good news though… Studies suggest that women who have sufficient long chain Omega-3 fatty acid intake during and after pregnancy reduce their risk of developing PND.

What are Omega-3s? Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of ‘good’ polyunsaturated fat and are found in three different forms; eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and a-linolenic acid (ALA). Our body cannot make Omega-3 fats by itself therefore we need to consume them from our diet. Omega-3s, in particular

Melanie McGrice is one of Australia’s best known dietitians. She is a highly respected author and health presenter on nutrition and dietary issues - and a lover of great food! Join her free nutrition and wellbeing network at www.melaniemcgrice.com.au. 30

natal Depression

Written by Melanie McGrice, AdvAPD.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be scared to eat fish

Try some flaxseed oil

Eating fish whilst pregnant can generate fear in many women because of the threat of listeria or mercury poisoning. The truth is that fish should be on the top of your shopping list! Marine animals are the main source of Omega-3 fatty acids in the diet with oily fish having the richest Omega- 3 content.

Plant based Omega-3 fatty acids come in the form of ALA from foods such as flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, soybeans and canola oil. Our body must convert ALA into EPA and DHA but this conversion rate is slow and inefficient (less than 10% when compared to what is obtained from fish). Of all the plant based sources, flaxseeds are the best source as they contain ~50-60% ALA. Although whole flaxseeds are poorly digested and can only provide ~3g ALA, 1 tbsp flaxseed oil can provide up to 10g of ALA, which equates to approximately 400mg DHA. Flaxseed oil is too delicate to cook with so a handy tip is to use it as a salad dressing.

A serve of salmon, sardines or trout provides over 1000mg DHA while white fish including snapper, tuna or barramundi, and other seafood provide approximately 600mg of DHA per serve. Just be sure to limit your intake of predatory fish and flake (shark) and to cook your fish well and there is no reason to shy away from seafood!

Recommended intake: aim for 2-3 150g serves of low mercury fish per week

Recommended intake: Aim for 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil per day

Have more eggs Even though eggs provide less Omega-3 than marine or meat based products, they are still a good source of Omega-3. A standard 60g egg provides approximately 40mg DHA. Some companies are now fortifying their eggs to boost their Omega-3 content. Always check the label of fortified products to confirm Omega-3 quantities, but as a general guide an enriched 60g egg may provide 70mg DHA. Incorporate them into sandwiches or stir-fries or serve them as the hero of the dish either boiled or scrambled or the humble omelette.

Recommended intake: Aim for 6 60g Omega 3 enriched eggs per week

Increasing your Omega-3 intake can be as easy as adding more fish, eggs and/or flaxseed into your diet. If you or someone you love has post-natal depression it is important to also seek professional help from your health care providers.

Post natal depression is a serious condition and can affect mothers with mild, moderate or severe symptoms such as sadness and hopelessness, severe mood swings, confusion, guilt, sleeping and appetite changes and even thoughts of suicide. 31

Should I use a Travel agent? Many people believe that using a travel agent is old school; it’s so much quicker and cheaper to get online and do it yourself. As a travel agency that has been in the business for over 40 years we are here to tell you that that is not always the case. Here are 10 reasons to ALWAYS book your travel with a travel agency. 1. They have probably been to where you want to go. The extensive knowledge of a travel consultant helps you plan your trip. We have been to where you want to go so we can recommend the best hotels, restaurants, day trips and insurance etc. We also know our way around airports and can help with little tips on travelling with children or solo travel. 2. You’re in safe hands Travel consultants know which booking sites are legitimate and which are NOT. Booking online is a risk, so don’t risk your hard earned money and your holiday dreams. 3. They can save you money Save your own time searching sites online and let a travel consultant do the searching for you. It is time consuming to search each site for the best possible price and then compare to different days and airlines etc. It is a travel agents job to search for the best price to save you money. We can use the same online sites that are available to everyone BUT we can access even more travel booking sites that are only available to consultants. 4. They take care of the red tape If you need to cancel or re-schedule flights a travel agent can take care of the red tape for you. 5. They know people on the inside Travel consultants know the best seats on the flight and know people on the inside to get you seated for the most enjoyable flight possible.

6. They are only a phone call away Travel agencies have 24 hour help lines. So if you do need help while in a far off land, it is literally only a phone call or email away. Any problems and a consultant can sort out any flight cancellations, change of accommodation etc, very easily for you, which saves a lot of queuing, frustration and a waste of your valuable time. 7. The know the entry requirements of your destination Travel agents can help with all travel visas and paperwork for your trip. Sometimes the entry requirements can change without notice, so you can be assured that if you have booked with a travel agency you will have the correct paperwork to allow you to enter when you arrive at your destination. 8. They know the best rooms Travel consultants can book the best rooms in hotels with their suppliers. Hotels usually place the rooms online that the travel consultants do NOT want. If they don’t want it, there is usually a reason. 9. They can deliver the whole package Travel consultants can work with the travel wholesalers and come up with fabulous travel packages. Everything is taken into consideration to deliver the best package available that can include: flights, accommodation, transfers and meals etc. 10. They become part of your team When booking with a travel consultant, you get a team working for you to deliver the best trip possible at the best price. So there you have it, booking travel online is NOT the best option if you want your family holiday to be the best it can. By Destination HQ. 23 North Concourse Beaumaris. Ph 9589 3294 or email travel@destinationhq.com.au

PHUKET FAMILY SPECIAL

FROM

5888

JUNE 2015 SCHOOL HOLIDAY SPECIAL BASED ON 2 ADULTS & 2 KIDS (UP TO 21 YEARS OF AGE)

(Package total for 4 people)

2015 SCHOOL HOLIDAY FAMILY PACKAGE INCLUDES: - 4 return Economy Class flights flying THAI - Departure taxes for 4 people - Return airport to hotel transfers - Daily breakfast for 4 people - Welcome dinner for 4 people - Guaranteed late checkout on the last day

SPECIAL VALID DURING JUNE 2015 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

- 2 x guaranteed adjoining rooms - 9 nights accommodation at Kata Beach Resort and Spa (4 star) - FREE upgrade to 2 Deluxe Ocean View rooms - Access to kids activities room *Based on travel on 21 or 22 June 2015. Add on $65 per person for departures on 28 and 29 June 2015.

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receIve to conceIve Wouldn’t it be nice if conception were as easy as the stork dropping off a gorgeous bundle of joy on your doorstep. Unfortunately for so many it isn’t easy at all and sometimes even IVF doesn’t bring any success. In some cases people have literally left it too late. Dr Burmeister, the clinical director at Monash IVF says some women believe they can have their career and then use IVF at 40 to start a family. For many others, meeting a partner later in life has delayed motherhood. But, Dr Burmeister says, only 4 per cent of a woman’s eggs are left at the age of 40. The older the woman is the greater the risk at each stage that things won’t go to plan. In 2011 the chance of a live birth per started treatment cycle was 25.3% for women aged 30-34 but only 6.6% for women aged 40-44 and a dismal 1.2% for women aged 45 or older. So, while fertility doesn’t “drop off a cliff” at 35, the chance of conceiving (spontaneously and with IVF) and having a complication-free pregnancy and a healthy baby steadily declines after age 35 and after age 40 chances are slim. But for some, letting the biological clock tick a bit too long is NOT the problem. Women of any age can have trouble with IVF using their own eggs and only have the option of an egg donor to help them conceive. So how do you find a suitable egg donor? We discovered one local Bayside couple this month facing just this question, with their only option to have a second child being through an egg donor. You can read more about their story in the pink box. Finding an egg donor can seem an impossible task. Many wonder, where do I begin? Who could I possibly ask? But the fact is many women in Victoria ARE willing and happy to help others to become parents via egg donation, you just need to find them. In the past year, over 220 women donated eggs in Victoria. Finding a local donor rather than travelling overseas for treatment can also

have enormous advantages. A local donor has the benefit of legal protections that ensure that she can be known to the potential child, and parents, and is perhaps more likely to have a similar value set, appearance and language to their own. Apart from the obvious lower cost factor, it is also much easier to travel to a local clinic than heading abroad. Who makes an ideal egg donor? People often wonder what sort of woman donates her eggs and what qualities are looked for in a potential donor. Donors are preferably: • Aged between 25-36 years. Women younger than this may not be able to fully appreciate the implications of donating. Older women are likely to have decreased fertility and therefore chance of success but may still be able to donate if they are fertile. • Already mothers themselves. Women who are mothers have proven fertility and can perhaps better understand the consequences of donating. It is also preferable, although not essential, if they have completed their family. • Healthy - physically, mentally and in terms of lifestyle. • Motivated by a desire to help others. It is not legal to pay donors; however they can of course be reimbursed for travel and medical expenses. • Sensible and settled. It is advisable that their life is fairly stable and that they have a good support network. If someone is recovering from a recent break up or has started a new job, it may be difficult for them to cope with medical appointments and procedures. • Prepared to be identified to the child, as Victorian legislation requires this. If egg donation sounds like something you would like to consider you can find more information at www.varta.org.au

A tiny donation is a HUGE gift We consider ourselves very lucky to have one miracle baby who came into this world after many years of trying and a rocky ride through many IVF cycles. We tried unsuccessfully for a second child, and after 5 more IVF cycles I was told that a donor egg is our only option to conceive. Our daughter is a cheeky character with big blue eyes, a beautiful caring nature, and the cutest laugh – she will be a great big sister and it makes us sad that she may never have a sibling. About us – we are a happy family of 3, with the desire to be 4. We are in our late 30’s and have been together for 8 years and married for 5. We love watching our daughter grow, learn and develop her unique personality. We are regular, healthy and genuine people who enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling and music. Of course there are a few boxes for our donor to tick, like being under 35, in excellent health, willing and able, and ideally completed their family, but for us it also about the “vibe” – we want to click with our donor. It is important for the match to be right for our family, but also for our donor and their family, plus the potential child that may result from this gift who we intend to be open about their magical beginnings. Your tiny donation will be a huge generous gift. Actual expenditure incurred on medical and associate travel costs will be reimbursed. If you are interested in having an initial chat, please contact us via email - onemorebabybear@gmail.com The text of this advertisement has been approved by the Victorian Minister for Health, as required by s.40 of the Human Tissue Act 1982 (Vic) (December 2014) (e3673665)

apps for under $3 CHEAPER THAN A TAKE-AWAY COFFEE! Why don’t we think twice about buying a coffee but sometimes baulk at paying money for an app? It doesn’t have to cost much to get an app that can provide hours, days or even years of entertainment and education for your child. Here are some of Mamma Raj’s recommended apps for different age groups to enhance their learning without breaking the bank:

TODDLER APPS Playschool Art Maker (FREE) iPAD compatible Why we love it? A fun way for kids to freely create pictures, animated movies and story slideshows using their favourite Play School toys and craft items. If you child loves Playschool they will love this app! What you should know about it? Only that this will keep your child entertained – it is just as good as giving them a pen and pencil!

Peekaboo Barn – (FREE/ $2.49) iPhone and iPAD compatible Why we love it? Sit down with your child to learn the names of animals and hear the sounds they make. Younger children will love opening the barn doors to find a new animal animation, as they learn about cause and effect and become familiar with animal names and sounds. Older children will enjoy guessing animals by sound, then seeing the animal names, which helps develop early literacy skills. What you should know about it? One of the first apps to be released for toddlers, since 2008 Peekaboo Barn has been downloaded over half a million times, and played over 70 million times worldwide. Pay for the app ($2.49) as it is MUCH better than the lite version that is free.

Written by Mamma Raj Mamma Raj is a mother of two daughters who lives in Melbourne and like most of us, is just trying to navigate the mummy minefield every day. Her blog Mamma Raj Says reviews products for kids and babies including apps. Check out her site: https://mammarajsays.com

PRESCHOOL/ INFANTS SCHOOL APPS Doodle Critter Math – Shapes ($2.99) iPhone and iPAD compatible Why we love it? This is a learning game designed for young kids 3-5 years (but you introduce this to younger kids too) to help them learn basic concepts of shapes and forms with 6 interactive games. What you should know about it? Voted Parent’s Choice Award 2014 Recommended Award Winner – it isn’t only us that love this app!

Tap the Cat ($2.99) iPAD compatible Why we love it: A great way to start your child on their reading journey with a fun and highly interactive app. This app teaches key early literacy skills through touch, listening and speaking through 9 playful activities with 2 levels of difficulty. What you should know about it: Suitable for 4-6 years this app was created by the makers of Reading Eggs – a team of educators with more than 25 years of experience in early childhood education.

PRIMARY/ EARLY HIGH SCHOOL APPS Maths Shake – (FREE/$1.29) iPAD compatible Why we love it? A great educational app to help kids improve and extend their mathematical skills tailored to their specific age groups for children aged 6-13 years. What you should know about it? This app is free to start with for 6 and 7 year old mathematicians. However once your child grows older and required more complex questions you will need to upgrade ($1.29) from the easy (7-8 years to Genius 11-13 years packages). There is also a Whiteboard service ($2.49) that teaches math strategies and problem solving – your own teacher on hand!

Free Chess App – (FREE) iPAD compatible Why we love it? This makes a great introduction to the game of chess, giving the player options on moves at each stage to teach them chess strategies they can use in years to come. Plus it is free and simple to use. What you should know about it? There are lots of chess apps available on iTunes but we have recommended this one as it is one we have used and loved.

Importance of early learning School readiness = cognitive development + social skills + emotional skills + physical skills From the day they are born, children learn and develop by touching, hearing, tasting, seeing, smelling, moving and playing – and of course, you the parent, are your child’s greatest role model for learning. During the early years classes and activities outside of the home are important but learning through play is fundamental for brain development. Secure family attachments and stimulation are necessary for development and play creates increased flexibility and potential for learning later in life.

School readiness Starting school can be an exciting but anxious time for both children and parents and even the most confident child can find the structured routine of school daunting. In preparation for school it is important for children to have a wide range of experiences in their early years and for parents to foster an environment that facilitates learning and development. Look for the ‘teachable moment’ in everyday activities such as setting the dinner table, baking or climbing the stairs. Finding our ‘inner teacher’ gives children important cognitive prerequisites for school. Early childhood programs can support school readiness by further enhancing those skills but also providing opportunity for social, emotional and physical skills. Play is one of the most important aspects of preparation. It is play that begins to regulate their vocabulary, form and test ideas, negotiate, problem solve and develop key mathematical logic – all essential skills for the next educational leap.

How can the Toy Library help? Thanks to public and private funding, the Bayside Toy Library can offer specialist toys that support a child’s emotional, personal and social journey during pre-school years. ‘School readiness’ toys are a type of play that stimulates advancement in these areas, encouraging positive regulation in behaviours. Bayside Toy Library members can hire Fidget Sticks to encourage attention or concentration in a child who struggles to regulate emotions and sensory input. Time Timers are also available and can visually represent time to help reduce anxiety around how long an activity takes. There are also games, puzzles, imaginative dress, and mathematical and linguistic toys to stretch little brains in new and challenging ways. These toys are the perfect stepping stones from kinder to school ensuring children start school ready to learn.

Contact us To find relevant toys that will facilitate early learning and school readiness drop by the Library in Dendy Street and speak to a member of staff about your child’s interests and learning. The library is open at 212 Dendy Street Brighton East on Wednesday from 7pm to 9pm, and Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 9.30am to 11.30am. You can also contact the library by phone on 0447 985 221, visit www.baysidetoylibrary.com or get updates on the latest toy arrivals by joining their Facebook page.

Acai and Dragonfruit bowls available

One day only membership specials

TOY GARAGE SALE! Sat 14 March 9.30-1pm Pre-loved toys in very good condition all at amazing prices, for ages 6 months – 10 years. Also a great range of good quality pre-loved clothing from ages 0 – 18 months. PLUS Crafts, Bouncy Castle & lots more!

212 Dendy Street, Brighton East www.baysidetoylibrary.com Live Local - Shop Local - and don’t forget to mention MamaMag!

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Smarty Pants In Training Children conquering the toilet Leaning to use and master the toilet is a major milestone in a toddler’s life. Some kids just get it. For others, it is a difficult skill to acquire and is frustrating for both child and parents. One of the best ways to encourage an easier transition is to look for signs of readiness to toilet train. Some signs your child is ready include: • tells you he has done a wee or poo in his nappy - especially if he tells you before • becomes interested in others using the toilet (wants to watch, talk about it) • doesn’t want to wear nappies anymore (trying to take them off when full) • has regular soft formed bowel movements • has dry nappies for up to two hours (showing an ability to store wee in the bladder) • can pull pants up and down When will my child be a Smarty Pants? It seems most children are not ready to learn to control their “wees” and “poos” until they are at least 2 years old and often later than that. Children first need to recognise the feeling of a full bladder, then they learn to hold their full bladder for longer periods of time, eventually getting to the toilet to have their wee in the right place. How can I help my child be a Smarty Pants? Watch your child. Recognise when they have a full bladder. They often fidget with their nappy or pants, or squirm on the spot. Some children will sit on their heels. Some will hide or go to one particular place in the house. Fluids intake makes fluids output: Encourage your child to drink mostly water about 5-6 times in a day. A 2-year-old may drink about 1000mls in 24hours. A 5-year-old should drink about 1200mls. Children in late primary school should drink 1500mls; the same as an adult. Child-sized: Use a potty, or a fill-in toilet seat for your child and a foot-stool. Children do a better job when their feet and bottoms are on a surface.

Train your child to be a Smarty Pants When you see you child fidgeting, ask them: “Do you need to go to the toilet?” Be the model: Let your child see you go to the toilet. Talk about what you are doing. Yes, everything. Praise beats correction every time when training a child to do anything. “Good boy/girl for telling me you want to go to the toilet.” Even if they don’t succeed every time, continue with the toilet routine – Go to the toilet with them, practice tearing off the toilet paper, flushing the toilet, washing and drying hands. Stay positive and calm. Recognise that sometimes, the child just isn’t ready. Have a few weeks break before starting again. Illness, including constipation, or a new baby in the family may cause a set back. Getting professional help for my Smarty Pants Seek help if your child is having any bowel problems- constipation or pain, or if your child is still wetting their pants during the day at age 4 or wetting the bed at age 6. Look at websites such as www.continence.org.au and www.bladderbowel.gov.au. Seek out help from your local continence physiotherapist www.physiotherapy.asn.au or www.continence.org.au or maternal health nurse, childcare organisation, or talk to your local doctor about who they recommend. Written by Annette Beauchamp. Annette is a physiotherapist who works with people who have bladder and bowel problems, children, and their mums and dads too.

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ZOOKEEPER EXPERIENCE!

Spend a whole day with zoologist Chris Humfrey from ABC’s hit series “Chris Humfrey’s Wild Life!” Work as his very own private zoo, and learn from Chris himself! Get up close and personal with over 2000 animals! Discover what drives Chris to work with animals. Who knows your child could follow in his footsteps! This is an exceptional hands-on experience, which is offered nowhere else. Chris has personally designed this exclusive program. Stricly limited numbers of children will ensure that your child will get the WILD experience which they CRAVE! Chris’ zoo is nestled in the foothills of Mount Macedon. It’s an easy 50 minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD.

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Fairy Ballet, Tap and Jazz for 2-5yrs

Adults Tap and Ballet beginner advanced

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1109a Glen Huntly Road Glen Huntly Call Miss Casey on 0423 095 590

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Northcote Studio also available

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Feet & Hands Reflexology in Brighton

PUT AN END TO BED WETTING Reflexology is a non-invasive treatment to strengthen the bladder/brain reflex and is personalised to your child’s needs. 30-minute sessions twice a week for between one and four weeks are most effective. $45.00 per session for children 5-11 years $60.00 per session for children 12-17 years (health fund reimbursements apply)

Call Kate on 0408 661 863 or email kater22@bigpond.com 42

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French Patissier Marc Frissard specialises in: Hand made pastries – croissants, danishes, brioche and almond croissants. Individual cakes, light lunches and high tea.

Open Tue - Fri 7.30am - 4pm, Sat & Sun 9am - 4pm. 565 Hampton Street Hampton | 03 9521 9771 info@gbymf.com.au | www.gbymf.com.au Live Local - Shop Local - and don’t forget to mention MamaMag!

fun for the kids

the bunny pop With Easter just around the corner here is a great little Easter gift you can make with the kids to give to their friends. The Bunny Pop! And don’t forget to check out our huge Easter program these school holidays. We have The Pop Up and Hop Easter shop running for the first week of the school holidays. The shop will be full of beautiful Easter goodies to buy and the Coffee hut will be up and running too. Come and say hello and drop the kids off for some fun craft classes. Lizzyann.com.au

How to make it

You will need

Scissors Glue

Coloured paper or pencils Your MamaMag bunny template Lolly pops (yummo) Black pen Blue tack

Trace around your template. If using pencils colour in your bunny, don’t forget to add some teeth and whiskers. If using coloured paper trace each shape separately onto colour paper and carefully cut around. Glue all the parts onto the bunny face, don’t forget to add teeth and whiskers with your black pen. Cut around the bunny shape and fold in half. Push the top of the lolly pop stick through the spot in the middle Add glue to the back of the ears, press ears together, to hold the face onto the lolly pop. Trace and cut out your bunny feet then using a bit of blue tack, stick to the bottom of the lolly pop.

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Mel’s Soy Wax Products candle making workshops 4hr workshops in Sandringham - $150 For details call Mel on 0402 246 458

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Information service and representation for non-government school parents Engaging parents with their child’s education

20/11/2014 4:46 pm

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For membership enquiries contact: vicpc@vicparentscouncil.vic.edu.au

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