Bayside MamaMag October 2015

BAYSIDE

October 2015

WIN a one month gym membership at f45 training Health & Wellbeing Smiling minds Bed wetting Power of suggestion ASD and me

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You are what you eat Well if that were true, I would without a doubt be an egg! I’ve had two to three a day for the last six weeks!

If you hadn’t noticed, last month I embarked on a sixweek fitness challenge with Sam Wood, with the aim to lose 6kg. It sounded like a good idea at the time, but I wasn’t overly confident I would actually get there. I really enjoy exercise but always struggle to fit it into my busy life. But how could I say no to Sam! Plus I was kind of hoping my journey (which I have shared over the page) might inspire a few other mamas to have a crack at a healthier lifestyle. If I can fit it into a busy working single-mother’s life, surely you can too.

The MamaMag team were thrilled to take part in the recent Connor’s Run, completing the 9.6km run. It’s the first time we have been involved and were astonished at the comraderie of the whole event, bringing so many wonderful Baysiders out to support such an important cause. We’ve got a wrap up inside.

I love running. While it is fabulous for fitness, I use it to clear the mind and unwind as well. I think for busy mamas it is so important to take time out for ourselves.

Exercise is fantastic for things like depression and the mind. So what better outlet than one that keeps us healthy in body and mind. But whatever exercise works for you, make it a priority this month and see how amazing you feel when November rolls in. And if you are looking for something new to try, jump on our F45 promo this month! I’ve been training at Brighton F45 for a few months now and it is seriously fabulous.

In other news, my kids were delighted to welcome a baby brother into the world last month. No not from me silly! Little Ted is the gorgeous creation of their Dad and partner Lauren. Congratulations guys.

Dad always wanted more kids and I used to joke he would have to have his 3rd and 4th child with his next wife. Turns out I was right! #modernfamilies So happy October. Enjoy the sunshine Baysiders and get fit, seriously, it feels fabulous!!!

@localmamamag

WIN

Contents 6kg in 6 weeks Editor Sarah’s fitness challenge

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Smiling minds Mindfulness for young minds

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Any suggestions?

Kids and well timed suggestion

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Are you ready for school?

Kindergarten transition

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Whole Kids AusMumpreneur awards wrap-up

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Brain matters 18 The Robert Connor Dawes Foundation

1 of 3 one-month membershIps at f45 traInIng brIghton

WORTH $286 EACH

Bed wetting Will my child grow out of this?

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Turn the page Top picks from Ulysses Bookstore

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Mama of the month Mum of 5 Dr Justine Tuffley

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To learn more about F45 functional training visit www.f45training.com.au/brighton

Mama can cook Healthy food morning and night

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Entries open to Victorian residents only. Competition starts October 1st 12.01am and closes October 31st 2015 at 11.59pm.

Visit mamamag.com.au for full terms and conditions. New members only.

Early childhood It’s all about play

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Lovely locals Hawthorn Road Brighton East

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Family violence A mother’s story

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ASD and SPD X3 Plus ADHD! Tales from the mum

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Osteopathy benefits For pregnant mums and children

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Pass the packet Avoiding packet foods

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Parklife 44 Mentone Racecourse Reserve Bratz dolls colouring comp

MamaMag October 2015

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

5,000 copies are distributed monthly.

Editor in Chief: Sarah Cavalier Design & layout: Grizzle Design Sales & marketing: Linda Corr and Daniela Simonetta Distribution: Lara Schendzielorz Like to contribute an article submission or products for Facebook giveaways? 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.

6kg in 6 weeks Sure not every mama has time to train at the gym 5 times a week, but after gaining 10kg in the last 3 years since being back in Melbourne, when Sam (The Bachelor) Wood asked me to come and do a fitness challenge with him to celebrate the impending opening of his new gym, I was hardly going to say no!

As a business owner, working countless hours (and weekends) on MamaMag, I am always putting work (and the kids) before myself.

And as a single mum I’m not blessed with the opportunity for fitness outside of school hours.

So I decided it was time for some me-time. I will take an hour out of my day each day and commit to Sam’s program, aiming to lose 6kg in 6 weeks through healthy eating and exercise and I’m here to share my journey with you.

Day One:

Met with Sam at The Woodshed today. Even though I knew him pre-Bach, it’s hard not to be a little shy knowing he is about to become the biggest thing on tv, especially as I discuss how I’ve put on weight due to my busy life, how I struggle to manage the kids, how lunches are improper and rushed, and dinners are bland and carb based to please the kids. But he was so lovely and filled me with the confidence that if I really put my mind to it, I could achieve some fabulous results in 6 weeks.

He even suggested the confidence it would bring could result in me finding the man of my dreams at the end, although just quietly I think he is already sitting opposite me!

Sam measured and weighed me (awkward!), snuck in a quick ‘before’ photo then got me straight to work. My plan is three group PT sessions a week, some interval running on Tuesdays in my own time, Thursdays follow his workout program in the gym and Saturdays a long run on my own. Sunday is rest day. My diet is limited to 1200 calories and we discuss what I should be eating. Avoid the grains and carbs for optimal weight loss, up the greens and small meals at night. 3L of water too. He doesn’t give me a strict itemised diet. He knows I know what

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I should eat, it’s more a matter of committing to doing that. But when you have Sam weighing you every week, one tends to make a decision to be strict. Weight loss here I come!

Starting weigh in: 70.85kg

Day Three: Following Sam’s gym

program this morning. Going great till I get to the 1km on the treadmill at the end on elevation 5. I’ll never make the distance so I drop it back to 2, but by the end I’m feeling the burn big time. It’s only then I notice I have it set to Miles not Km’s so I’ve really run 1.6km.

Rookie mistake!

Day Four: And my 4th day in a row with

2 group PT sessions and 2 days in the gym following Sam’s program. I don’t think I have ever worked out four days running and boy am I feeling it. The gorgeous Joss, this morning’s trainer, laughs at me as I wobble through the lunges, but says I’m doing ace for day four. I cherish the encouragement. My diet is amazing, some scrambled eggs and ham (no bread) for breakfast, vegie and chicken soup for lunch that I made myself last night (very unlike me), some meatballs and a spinach salad for dinner. Just knowing I am fueling my body with all the right stuff makes me feel awesome. I’m back at my desk by 10.30 for the rest of the day’s work and I am feeling massively empowered. Weigh in: 70.65kg. Slow start, can’t wait for next week.

Day Seven: After a hard group PT session

yesterday I’m in the gym for a one-on-one with Sam this morning. 2 boiled eggs on some spinach for breakfast should get me through this. There were lunges, boxing, stair runs, planking, all sorts of goodness. None of it was easy, and I feel quite hot. Could just be staring at Sam between the boxing pads, but no, I think I might be getting sick. Aint nobody got time for that. Cooked spag bol for dinner and had my meat on a bowl of steamed vegies instead of the pasta I cooked for the kids. Suprising how eating well make me feel mentally awesome!

What Mama ate Here are a few of my standard go-to options, all super easy and fuss free.

Breakfast:

Just putt I’ve got a fe ing it out there.

The word ‘lo w wobbly bits to lose ! ve handle’ sp rings to min d!

Scrambled eggs with some shaved ham, no toast.

Two soft boiled eggs on a bed of baby spinach with a few chopped almonds on top and a little salt and pepper.

Fresh strawberries and blueberries with Jalna natural fat free yoghurt.

Lunch:

Tuna in springwater with salad. wall uite like a g. ys burn q Nothing sa the sun was shinin st sit. At lea

Left over meat from dinner with Kale Coleslaw from Coles (you have to try it!).

Soft boiled egg and smoked salmon on greens.

Feeling super positive tod ay in my new Positive Pants gear! Hot !

Dinner:

Spag bolognese for the kids, serve mine on steamed greens instead of pasta.

Pan fried (no oil) eye fillet with mixed vegies

Snacks:

Wednesday morning group PT with the Jossman. It’s going to hurt tomorrow!

Almonds, boiled eggs, tuna, ham, strawberries, frozen raspberries.

and measure.

The final weigh in ure up!? as me I d di How

Massive thanks to Sam and the guys at The Woodshed PLUS 2XU Hampton and Positive Pants for my awesome training gear

i. e Spaghett without th and veg. e es n g lo Bo was meat Every night s, no potato.

No grain

I think it is fair to say the re has been some improvement!

10cm gone from my tummy, tick!

www.atthewoodshed.com.au www.2xu.com.au www.positivepants.com.au 7

Day 10: It’s weigh in day again. Eeek. Meet Sam before my group PT class and I’m so nervous about if I’ve made any progress after a slow start. I’ve been eating like a machine though. Haven’t had ANY bread, potato or grains. After 10 days I don’t even miss these things and I’m well under my 1200 cals a day too. Weigh in: 69.85kg. 1kg down, 5 to go!

Day 11: I was right, I was getting sick. Sore

throat, cough, so tired I can hardly move. I’m meant to run 8km today. Not going to happen.

But I will eat well, I promise.

Day 14: Not strong enough for group PT

but I’m feeling a lot better. Fastest flu ever!

Hopefully these 3 days off are not too much of a setback.

Day 18: Today is my birthday and I am meeting Sam for a weigh in. But he’s not here, had a radio interview. So I sneak upstairs before group PT and discover I’m just over 2kg down. High five from Joss, feeling awesome.

Dinner at Hotel Brighton, but I have the prawn salad to counteract my 4 cheeky wines.

Weigh in 68.7kg.

Day 20: Kids are away this weekend, so I

get up early Sunday and go for a run along the beach. One of my favorite things to do. Clears the mind and I am finding it a bit easier than usual with my increased fitness. Win!

Day 23: Weigh in before group PT – 67.85kg. Exactly 3kg down. 3kg to go! I’m amazed at how much easier the exercises are getting. I’ve almost nailed the plank. But that doesn’t mean I like it!

Day 34: I skipped my run yesterday as today is Connor’s Run. 9.6km from St Kilda to the Yarra with 2500 other wonderful supporters.

The run is hard, which I think is due to the heat.

It’s a wonderful 20-something day. After the run I meet the kids at the beach and then we tottle off to a kinder play in the park. There may have been a couple of sneaky wines. It was too hard to say no in this divine sunshine! I hope this doesn’t show on Wednesday. Did I just have a blow out 3 days before deadline? Oops.

Day 36: It’s magazine print deadline this

week, so I am frightfully busy. But I also need some time out before my head explodes. So I run 4km to the gym, do a 20min workout (arms and abs) then run back home. Last minute dash before tomorrow’s weigh in. 2 boiled eggs for breakfast, a third for lunch with a bit of ham.

Day 37: It’s here... final weigh in day.

Technically I still have 5 more days to hit 6kg and to be honest I’m not overly confident I’ve got there early. But with Sam away from tomorrow, and print deadline the next day, we have to do final measurements today.

And the result...

Final weigh in: 64.7kg.

I have dropped a massive 6.15kg, lost 10cm off my tummy and 8.5cm off my hips in 5 weeks.

I am beyond excited and Sam is super proud.

Sam’s new gym The Woodshed opens in October at 643 Nepean Highway Brighton East. If you are after some great individual or group PT, this is your place ladies!

Day 26: AusMumpreneur Conference.

How am I going to manage this one? They served pastries for morning and afternoon tea.

I had a mandarin. Made it through the awards night with just 1 glass of bubbles though.

Lucky I didn’t win, I wouldn’t have been able to hold back! I got the beef, didn’t eat the mash, all good!

Day 28: Weigh in: 66.65kg. Whoop whoop!

4.2kg down in 4 weeks. I’ve totally got this in the bag!

Day 32: Snuck upstairs to the scales before class as I’m worried about my final weigh in with Sam before he sneaks off for batch duties next week. Weigh in: 65.65kg. Dropped a kilo in 4 days.

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Winners are grin an awesome ners! Thanks Sam for 5 continue on weeks. Can’t wait to this healthy journey!

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smiling minds Mindfulness for growing young minds Mindfulness for kids is about empowering them to pay attention to what’s happening inside themselves and in the world around them.

Smiling Mind is modern meditation for young people. It is a unique web and app-based program, designed to help bring balance to young lives and support mental health strategies to cope with everyday stressors.

Smiling Mind is a not-for-profit initiative based on a process that provides a sense of calm, clarity and contentment.

Alarming evidence about the mental health of young Australians shows that around one in seven (13.9%) children and adolescents aged 4-17 years experienced a mental health issue in the last year, which is equivalent to an estimated 560,000 young Australians*.

Smiling Mind is striving to turn this around by supporting young minds to prevent ill mental health. The Smiling Mind app is a very accessible tool for young people who often suffer undetected mental health issues; in Australia around 44% of cases do not seek treatment.*

How can mindfulness support the growth of a young mind?

Mindfulness is a simple form of meditation where one pays attention to the present moment, with purpose and without judgment.

Mindfulness meditation focuses the brain and promotes being mindful of the present moment instead of worrying, dwelling in the past or reacting to what is happening. Regular practice of mindfulness meditation reduces the reactivity of the amygdala and increases activity in areas of the prefrontal cortex that help regulate emotions, and reduce stress and anxiety. Consciously being mindful physically changes the structure and function of the brain 10

to improve the quality of both thought and feeling, whilst also promoting positive mood and building emotional resilience.

For young minds in particular mindfulness meditation is used to promote the ability to focus on classroom activities and foster creativity. Mindfulness practice promotes self-confidence and self-esteem, development of emotional intelligence, ability to respond mindfully to stressful situations and to quiet the mind of anxious thoughts.

“The Smiling Mind program is wonderful for small children as it teaches them how to let go and relax; it talks them through it in a fun way.

The result of our practice was quite incredible, there was a definite reduction in playtime issues and general anxiety related to work, play or home. The children’s ability to remain engaged in class and their learning results also improved due to their newfound focus and lack of anxiety,” says Miss Lamming, a teacher who introduced the Smiling Mind program to her primary class.

“I put my hands on my head and did mindful breathing, and my mood changed to happiness because I’m aware of my body.”

“It’s a way of being brave and facing yourself.”

Mindfulness expert and Smiling Mind ambassador, Dr Craig Hassed, says “The world needs mindfulness and in this fast-paced, stressed and distracted world, the children of today probably need it more than any previous generation. Smiling Mind is taking mindfulness meditation to where it is needed most – into the hearts and minds of young people. It’s more than just a technique, and more than just a lifeskill. Mindfulness is a way of life.”

Smiling Mind is conducting their own research about the efficacy of mindfulness in schools, where over 1500 Victorian public secondary and primary students and 135 teachers from 12 schools are taking part in a trial with the hope of producing evidence of Smiling Mind’s mental health benefits for students and of fulfilling its vision for “mindfulness meditation to be on the curriculum by 2020,” says Smiling Mind Cofounder Jane Martino.

Meditation is for everyone, that’s why Smiling Mind is “creating a modern approach to meditation that young people will more easily adapt into their hi-tech, busy lifestyles, assisting them to cope better with some of the stresses young people experience today” says Martino.

In collaboration with beyondblue, Smiling Mind has developed a free tool for new and expecting mothers and couples. Mind the Bump is an app designed to support mental and emotional wellbeing in preparation for having a baby and becoming new parents.

Download Smiling Mind and Mind the Bump free on Google Play and the iTunes App Store.

*The Australian Government Department of Health 2015, The Mental health of children and adolescents, Report on the second Australian Child and Adolescent Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing

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any suggestions?

Kids and the power of well-timed suggestion As a therapist I’ve learned how to identify the moments at which people are more likely to accept suggestions.

At these times they are open to altering their way of thinking in order to broaden the range of options they believe are available to them.

When using clinical hypnotherapy in my practice I take my clients through a process of relaxation, so that they can enter a state of quiet introspective absorption. At this point their critical factor is more relaxed; when I recognise the signs that they have reached this state I can then apply the therapy relating to the issues we’ve discussed during the counselling part of our session. The client is open to new ideas, as long as they fall within the bounds of their values.

When children are drifting off to sleep they enter a similar state. There is a window of opportunity at this point for the observant parent or carer to give the child suggestions to increase their self-esteem and boost their confidence. It is the ideal time to reinforce to the child that they are loved and accepted for who they are, because at this time they will accept it at a far deeper level than when it’s said as they wander off to class or on a playdate surrounded by distractions.

Children love to use their imagination, so they respond incredibly well to metaphor. They live the experience of their imaginary creations, playing the role of dinosaur or princess with a commitment that would be the envy of the greatest method actor. When the child’s imagination is engaged they are in a trancelike state of focused absorption, exactly as I described earlier. This again presents a

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wonderful opportunity for confidence building by the parent. One way this can be initiated is by allowing your child to tell you a story; maybe give them some loose plotlines and encourage them to construct a tale around them. Children identify very closely with the stories they create themselves. The content of their story can then be used to give them positive affirmations, using their own language characters and imagery as a basis for a metaphor which will be personally meaningful to them. For example, if they’ve constructed a story in which they are “Princess Ella”, you can suggest at bedtime that “Princess Ella” is feeling so loved and safe as she is tucked up in bed, she knows that she is loved exactly as she is”. If your child is experiencing a problem, being bullied for example, “Princess Ella” might experience bullying too, and she would know deep down that “it’s not her fault and that she can say No firmly, walk away and tell a grown-up”.

If your child is feeling nervous about something like an upcoming athletics day or a school play, this is a great opportunity to spin a very evocative tale about a positive outcome. You do this by engaging all of their senses, describing the sights, sounds, smells and the feelings that will be experienced, for example, “running towards the finish line, you feel the cool air on your red face, you can smell the grass and your breath is hot, the sound of the crowd cheering hits your ears, and you feel yourself trying as hard as you can, and your legs are working hard and feeling tired, your heart is beating fast, you see that finish line, closer and closer, at last you throw yourself over the finish line and you think “yayyy I’ve done it!!” You feel fantastic, your heart is still beating hard, your friends (name some...) are patting you on the

back and saying well done (use your child’s name)!” etc. This has engaged all of your child’s senses to make it a very real experience for them. They can add in their own observations as you go along. If your child is not enthused about participating you can use their favourite character and evoke the experience through them.

In your child’s mind they have now lived the experience, and the idea of undertaking it in reality will be less daunting.

When a child is daydreaming they are also in a highly suggestable state, so choose your language particularly carefully when you find them gazing off into space. Remember they are open to suggestion, and once that suggestion has entered their mind it may form the basis of a belief.

Georgina Mitchell is a professional counsellor, psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist at Hypfocus Therapies and Training.

Georgina works from locations in Mentone and Cheltenham. www.hypfocus.com.au

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are you ready for school?

The transition from kindergarten to school is an important milestone for any child (and family). It can be an exciting and scary time for children so it is important to make sure that your child is ready for this transition.

Here are 6 tips to help you through the process: 1. Practice self-care skills, such as dressing, packing a bag, opening and closing a lunch box or drink bottle and going to the toilet.

Encouraging your child to develop these skills will give them the self-confidence to know they are able to do it on their own.

2. Play number and letter games with your child to introduce the concept of counting and letter recognition. This can be easily incorporated in everyday activities such as counting the number of toys on the floor or pointing out words when reading aloud to them. Encourage your child’s listening and attention skills by reading stories to them, practice holding books, turning pages and singing nursery rhymes. Asking questions about the story or song can also support your child’s understanding of communication skills.

3. Help your child to develop their gross motor skills, a fundamental base skill to many areas of learning. Using scissors and glue, drawing with a pencil, building with blocks or helping with the cooking can all help children to develop their gross motor skills. Only About Children, Hampton has specifically designed an Active program to help children learn important gross motor skills in a fun, inclusive environment.

4. Allow your child to become familiar with the school they will be attending. This will help them to feel more confident and comfortable on their first day. Visit their new school and attend any school orientations that are offered. This will also allow you to meet other families in the school community. You can start to develop relationships and a sense of connectedness to the school community.

5. Provide opportunities for your child to play with other children to develop their social skills. Children should be able to share, take turns during play and develop friendships. Teaching your child how to introduce themselves to other children and join in play with others will help them to feel confident and build friendships at school.

6. Talk with the child’s current kindergarten teacher and determine if any of the above areas require extra attention or practice. At Only About Children, Hampton, their in-house Health Team including speech pathologists and occupational therapists conduct ready for school screenings and test all of the above areas. This ensures that children are happy, confident and capable as they transition to school.

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whole kids We meet the inspiring Monica Meldrum Editor-in-chief Sarah Cavalier was fortunate to not only be a finalist at the recent AusMumpreneur awards, but also to attend the AusMumpreneur two day conference and hear the inspiring local mama Monica Meldrum speak about her journey creating Whole Kids, Australia’s leading brand of organic, healthy kids snacks.

Not surprisingly, Monica took out the coveted AusMumprenuer of the Year Award at the amazing gala dinner held on September 5th as well. We were absolutely thrilled for her and couldn’t wait to share her journey and inspiration behind Whole Kids with you.

My name is Monica. I have two children, Chloe (5) and Sam (1).

My business, Whole Kids, provides Australia’s largest range of organic, allergy free health foods for children, the proceeds of which are also helping to fund kids’ health and environmental projects.

The inspiration for Whole Kids came about while travelling to Indonesia to deliver an aid program to children living in poverty.

At the time I vowed to make a difference to children’s health.

On returning to Australia I noticed a sharp increase in food related illnesses amongst children. The more I looked into this, the more it bothered me. Products produced by big food companies were heavily processed, contained ingredients I couldn’t pronounce and were being marketed as healthy.

After several meetings with a dietician at the Royal Children’s Hospital and some local organic growers, I came up with a range of products, and decided to tackle the issue head on.

With the products I had developed, my husband and I headed off to the inaugural Organic Expo in Sydney. We made a promise to each other that if our products were well received we would throw in our “proper jobs” and devote all of our energy to Whole Kids. The response was overwhelming!

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Since then our business has grown to become Australia’s leading brand of organic and additive free foods for kids, providing almost 15 million healthier choices for mums and dads. This year we launched the Whole Kids Small Seeds Community Grants Program, which is helping to fund children’s health, and environmental projects nationally. We are also the first Australian food company to become a B Corporation, which is an international certification that recognises companies that are using the power of business as a force for good.

Last month I was honoured to receive the award for 2015 St George Banking Group Ausmumpreneur of the Year.

The things I love most about being a Mumpreneur are that I am in control of my destiny. I am a role model for my children and I am instilling values in them that they can achieve anything. While realising our vision, I am growing a flexible, family-friendly workplace that enables other mums to also share their skills and experience.

This award is important to me because it gives Whole Kids a voice. The biggest challenge we face is still the marketing power of the big food companies. I believe that food manufacturers should be responsible for the foods they are producing and marketing to children and that Whole Kids has an important role to play in leading the change.

St George Banking Group AusMumpreneur 2015 award winners: AusMumpreneur of the year Award: Monica Meldrum, Whole Kids www.wholekids.com.au Rising Star Award: Alisha Lynch, Naughty Naturopath Mum www.naughtynaturopathmum.com.au Emerging Award: Heather Rowlands, Kippins www.kippins.com.au Business Excellence Award: Casey Bryden, Sunbella www.sunbella.com.au

If you ask me what advice I would give to someone who is thinking about becoming a Mumpreneur, I would have to say it is important to create a very clear picture of what your business looks like and how you plan to grow it.

Don’t be afraid to set some big goals but focus on achieving no more than 3 priorities at any one time. Be confident in your abilities and fearless in your approach. Jump!! Being a Mumpreneur is one of the most liberating things you will ever do!

Digital Innovation Award: Jodie Blight, Hello Table www.hellotable.com.au Product Innovation Award: Kristy Chong, ModiBodi www.modibodi.com.au Sustainability Award: Vinita Baravkar, Bhumi Organic www.bhumi.com.au Retail Business Award: Samantha Spunner, Sinchies www.sinchies.com.au Service Business Award: Kelly McDonald, Garden Babies Fine Fairy Art www.gardenbabiesfinefairyart.com.au Influencer Award: Nikalene Riddle, Skinnymixers www.skinnymixers.com.au Customer Service Award: Nikki Wilkins, Nurture Nest www.nurturenest.com.au Handmade Award: Melanie Fogarty, Beyond the Willow Tree www.beyondthewillowtree.com Making a Difference Award: Kristy Vallely, The Imperfect Mum www.theimperfectmum.com.au The cream of the crop! Make sure you check out these clever mama’s businesses!

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brain matters Today, brain cancer is the most fatal of all childhood cancers. Current clinical treatments only help 50% of children, but leave 90% with lifelong physical and mental impairments.

This is why brain tumours are so devastating. It’s time to change the odds. To make brain tumours go the way of the dinosaurs. To support the science and in the meantime the patients.

Inspired by a big heart and brain, the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation was created in June 2013 in the memory of Robert Connor Dawes, a local Brighton Grammar boy who fought a 16 month battle with an ependymoma brain tumour and sadly lost his battle in April 2013.

Last month the 3rd annual Connor’s Run was held and this year they raised $400,000, 15% more than their goal!

AboutThe Robert Connor Dawes Foundation The RCD Foundation supports brain matters in the areas of research, care and development. Their overall goal is to support ALL paediatric brain cancer research in Australia, to make sure that kids today get the best available treatment, and that future brain cancer fighters have better options.

How is the fundrasing used?

The RCD Foundation establish relationships and fund projects all over Australia. Specifically this means continuing to fund projects like the Head of Neuro Oncology at the Royal Children’s Hospital, PhD researchers and Post Doctorate fellows at the Brain Cancer Discovery Collaborative and more.

And after expanding the Music Therapy ‘Music Matters Grants’, we’re planning on introducing a Yoga Therapy grant program in the next few months.

There’s lots to do when we’re up against the number 1 cancer killer in kids in Australia. But the momentum you’re creating by participating in Connor’s Run, spreading the word and fundraising, is making an impact.

These funds came from teams supporting mates going through their own challenges. They came from our sponsors going well beyond what one could expect from busy companies.

They came from heartfelt emails sent out to colleagues and clients.

And from generous sacrifices of pocket-money. All of these, great and small have made an impact.

Thank you.

Thank you for showing the world the brain is where the heart lives.

To make a donation to The Robert

Connor Dawes Foundation visit rcdfoundation.org

Fundraising is how we are able to keep Connor’s Run the fun community event it is while still making a big impact for patients and families with our brain matters projects.

Thanks for all your effort in fundraising and supporting others.

- Liz Dawes, Executive Director & Connor’s Mum 18

Ignite your Call now pre-schooler’s for a free trial! passion for sport!

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Your Local Class Days and Locations: Brighton Saturday

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19

Bedwetting – will my child GRow out of this?

If you are tired of washing and drying bedsheets from constant wetting, you are not alone. Bedwetting is common in young children. Most children become dry at night between the ages of 3 and 5. But 20% of five year olds still wet the bed at night. Most of these children will stop wetting in early primary school, but 1% will continue into their teens.

Children do not wet the bed on purpose; it is not under their control. Getting angry or upset with them or offering rewards for dry nights will not help.

The best way to deal with bed-wetting in young children is to give lots of reassurance that bedwetting is normal and common and they will grow out of it. Talking about an adult in their life who was also a bed-wetter usually puts children at ease and helps them feel less alone.

Reading books can also help. Some good ones are Dippy’s sleepover by Jane Clarke, Sammy the Elephant and Mr Carmel by Joyce Mills and David’s Secret Soccer Goals by Caroline Devine.

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Restricting sugary or caffeinated drinks can also help.

Bedwetting, known in medical terms as nocturnal enuresis, tends to run in families.

There are different causes. It may simply be that the brain has not learnt to make the connection between the feeling of a full bladder and needing to void. It may be that the child has not yet started to produce the antidiuretic hormone (ADH). ADH concentrates the urine overnight so our bladders don’t become so full. It’s also possible that children who are deep sleepers simply don’t wake up to go to the toilet.

Urinary tract infections, constipation and other health conditions may also cause bed-wetting.

Before starting any treatment it is essential to have a health check to make sure there are no other medical reasons for the wetting.

Wearing night-nappies makes bedwetting more manageable for everyone, but may also extend the bedwetting as it takes away the discomfort of waking up in a cold, wet bed. Likewise,

restricting fluids at night may reduce wetting, but fails to teach your child to deal with a full bladder (and could lead to dehydration).

Some children will have a period of dryness, and begin to wet the bed again later on. Often, these episodes are triggered by a stressful event in their life such as parents separating, starting kindergarten or moving home. Most children will stop wetting again when the stress levels reduce.

Tips for dealing with wet sheets: • Making the bed twice – mattress protector, sheet and again, mattress protector and sheet – makes it easier to handle wet accidents at night, as the first layer can be peeled off and the bed is made, ready to go back to sleep.

• Use a bed-wetting sheet. These are 1x1 m absorbent sheets that sit on the bed over the child’s sheet.

Tips for encouraging dry nights • Give your child lots of reassurance that it won’t last forever.

• For children over 6 years, do bed-checks for a week and work out about what time of night your child is wetting. If you find a regular pattern you can then wake up your child half an hour earlier than the estimated time. Take your child to the toilet, but make sure your child is fully awake to void in the toilet.

• Have a reward system for remembering to go to the toilet before bed.

• Get older children to take ownership of their wetting by asking them to remove their wet sheets and take them to the laundry. Explain to your child that this is not a punishment; it is about taking responsibility for their issue.

From age six, many children become selfconscious about bed-wetting, particularly when going on sleepovers or school camps.

If your child starts to show signs of distress, seek professional help.

Doctors sometimes recommend a synthetic DHA medication to help children stay dry.

This can be helpful short-term, such as when your child is going on school camp, but is not recommended long-term as it does not teach your child how to stop the bedwetting.

If you are going to try this make sure you do so weeks before the event. It does not work for all children.

For children over 6 years of age, the most effective treatment is the Bell and Pad alarm.

This consists of a mat with small electrodes placed under the child on the bed. The electrodes are very sensitive to moisture and set off a high-pitched alarm at the first urine drop. This wakes the child up immediately and teaches them to wake up and go to the toilet instead. Within 6 to 10 weeks of this treatment 80% of children become dry. Some children will start to wet again within 6 months, but a quick response with another stint of the bell and pad tends to deal with this.

Where to get help There are specialised clinics for enuresis in both the private and public sectors. Specialists can include continence nurses, psychologists or paediatricians. The first point of call is your GP.

By Marisa Baschuk, Psychologist Moving Mindsets, East Bentleigh www.movingmindsets.com.au

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turn the page Find Me a Castle, Beci Orpin. $24.99.

With bright pictures and lots of layers, this fresh new interpretation of the classic look-and-find book will have you returning time and again to its beautiful pages. Each page is themed and the instructions are either direct or sometimes the child has to use their imagination– “find me a dinosaur, a bucket and a spade, something to draw with, and pink lemonade”.

- Age 2 upwards

The Day the Crayons Came Home, Drew Daywalt & Oliver Jeffers. $24.99.

In this laugh-out-loud sequel to one of our favourite picture books, The Day the Crayons Quit, the crayons are back and they’re crosser than ever!

One day Duncan receives a set of postcards from his crayons who been lost, forgotten, broken – even melted in a clothes dryer and stuck to a pair of underpants! The story is a great way to engage with children about the concept of feelings in a fun way with the hilarious text and joyful illustrations.

- Age 3 upwards

Sporty Kids Soccer!, Sporty Kids Tennis!, Arena Felice. $9.99.

There have been few books featuring sport for younger readers but this is all changing with the new Sporty Kids series. In addition to Swimming and Footy there are two new books in the series featuring soccer and tennis. In Soccer Aby can’t understand why Pete won’t join her team even though they always win. In Tennis Stefan has winning racquet skills. But will he ever play a real game of tennis?

- Foundation and above

Lola’s Toybox series, Danny Parker. $12.95.

The new Lola’s Toybox series celebrates the magic and wonder of a child’s imagination and is sure to appeal to our young readers. In the books, Lola is given an old toy box and she discovers it’s a magical passageway to a world where toys come to life! Do teddy bears really have picnics? Are plastic toys really nastier than soft ones? Follow Lola and her trusty but rather wonky learn-to-dress clown, Buddy, on their adventures in the Kingdom, where toys live when they aren’t being played with in the real world. - Grade 1 and above

Ulysses Bookstore, 33 Melrose Street Sandringham Ph 9521 8020, www.ulyssesbookstore.com.au We are passionate about our children’s books with an extensive range, informed staff, and we love nothing better than to inspire children’s reading with our programme of taking children’s authors to visit local schools. We also have an extensive range of fiction and non-fiction titles for our adult customers.

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MAMA of the month This month we meet the amazing Dr Justine Tuffley, a Hampton mother of 5 kids, including 2 sets of twins, (yes she had 5 under 4!) and a former GP. From a tricky journey with baby number 5, Justine was inspired to start her own business to help other women who are feeling overwhelmed get their health back on track through diet, exercise and stress management. She also runs corporate stress management workshops.

So you worked as a GP before having kids?

Tell us a little bit about that.

I was never really sure what I wanted to be when I grew up. High on my list was a P.E. teacher, followed by a vet, and then somehow I ended up studying Law/Science at University.

The summer of 3rd year Uni I worked in a law firm and realised that being a lawyer was pretty much the last thing I wanted to be. So when summer was over I applied to switch to Medicine and never looked back. I absolutely loved it. I like answers and I like to help people so General Practice suited me.

Was this a career you continued after the first set of twins were born or was it time to be a stay at home mum for a while?

I worked in General Practice up until my second set of twins were born. I decided to take 2 years off work (paid work!). However life doesn’t always go to plan. I fell pregnant

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with Hugo, my 5th baby, during this time and had such a difficult pregnancy that my plans to return to General Practice went on hold.

After two twin pregnancies, you would expect to cruise through pregnancy number three and baby number five. But this certainly wasn’t the case. Tell us a little about Hugo and his journey into this world.

I was really looking forward to an easy pregnancy. The first trimester was great, but then I had a scare around 13 weeks and was told to rest (with 4 kids at home). Around 28 weeks I had a nagging feeling that something was wrong. I grew out of my twin pregnancy clothes. I was miserable being so huge and my belly was painful to touch. I had a placental rupture at 37 weeks and an emergency caesarian. Hugo was born with congenial long-gap oesophageal atresia. He was missing an oesophagus and went on to spend 5 months in Intensive Care at the RCH.

It must have been a terrifying experience and clearly the basis for your new career path. Tell us more about your business, what you do and when it came about.

When you experience a life-changing event you really do reflect on what you are doing.

I had recurring thoughts while working in General Practice “If only I could overhaul your diet” or “If only I could teach you to relax” or “If only I had time to get you into a good sleep routine…” These thoughts were the basis for my business.

I was unable to work for several years, as Hugo required tube feeding. I completed further studies through RMIT, and when he started school last year I set up my own consulting business. I help women, particularly those feeling overwhelmed, take control of their health through diet, exercise, sleep and stress management. Many people know what they should be eating but wonder why they can’t incorporate healthy eating into their busy lives.

I have clients who just want to feel good again, clients who want to stop yo-yo dieting, others who have been referred by GPs, or those who want to be a good role model for their children. I have recently helped mums wanting to learn relaxation techniques for their children who are experiencing hard times at school.

What’s your favourite aspect of running your own business?

I love the flexible working hours.

What have you found most challenging to date?

Keeping on top of the washing! Some days my laundry pile is so huge that I shut the door and go for a run instead.

What’s is like having twins. Are they alike?

My children are definitely 5 different personalities. Last week at dinner the kids were talking about future careers: Eldest child: “I might be a doctor, but not one that cuts people open”.

Child 2: “ummm…a teacher or an architect or maybe a plumber”.

Child 3 is under the table playing with the dog.

Child 4: “I want to be a policeman and shoot baddies”.

Child 5: “I want to own a tattoo shop and have a sleeve of tatts”.

Motherhood has taught me…

That life is unpredictable.

And the washing can wait another day!

You can find Juntine at www.drjustinetuffley.com.au 25

mama can Cook!

Breaky greens Serves: 4 | Prep: 5 min | Cook: 5 min Ingredients:

Method:

4 handfuls of greens (kale, sorrel, spinach) 1 pomegranate, seeded

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and dress with lemon vinaigrette.

2 heads broccoli

Add salt and pepper to taste.

1 handful cooked black beans

Divide salad mix into 4 bowls.

1 handful of activated nuts (we used almonds and walnuts)

Poach eggs ensuring yolks are still soft then place on top of each serving.

1 handful of pepitas

Sprinkle eggs with dukkah and serve with a wedge of lemon.

Half a pomegranate 8 poached eggs Lemon vinaigrette Dukkuh Salt and pepper Lemon, quartered

A Las Chicas healthy staple. Make sure you pop in for a visit and check out their new reno!

203 Carlisle St, Balaclava

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This is just one of the delicious dishes you can find at www.dinnersorted.com.au, the healthy dinner recipes delivered to your door!

Miso glazed salmon with sweet potato Serves: 4 | Prep: 5 min | Cook: 25 min

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Ingredients:

Method:

2 sweet potatoes 2 tbs mirin seasoning 1.5 tbs miso paste 2 tsp honey 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated 2 tsp coconut oil 600g salmon fillets 6 radishes thinly cut 2 lebanese cucumbers peeled into ribbons 2 spring onions 1 lime, cut into wedges Handful of coriander, chopped Salt and pepper

Preheat over to 180 degrees.

Cut sweet potato into 1-2cm cubes, drizzle with half the oil and season. Roast in oven for 15-20 mins or until tender.

Combine mirin, miso, honey and ginger in a jug. Set aside.

Heat coconut oil in a non-stick, ovenproof frying pan over medium heat. Season salmon with salt and pepper and cook for 2 minutes each side or until golden. Remove from heat and pour over mirin mixture. Transfer to oven and bake for 10 minutes for medium, or to your liking.

Take salmon out of oven and rest for 3 mins, then remove skin and flake.

Place sweet potatoes, radish, cucumber and spring onion in a bowl. Gently toss to combine. Divide among serving plates and top with flaked salmon. Drizzle with pan juices and sprinkle with coriander. Serve with the lime wedges.

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Early chIldhood It’s all about play A child’s instinct is to play. To run, hop, climb, skip, dance, dig, catch and throw. To roll down hills, to jump waves, to build forts and cubbies.

To make noise, to make mess, to explore.

Play is spontaneous, creative and joyful – for children and their parents and carers.

• Toddlers and pre-schoolers should be physically active for at least three hours spread throughout the day

From birth, children are innately curious about the world and their place in it. Their curiosity is the key to their development.

Watching a hanging mobile spin, playing peek-a-boo, learning to grasp objects, reaching, pointing, crawling – it’s all a game.

Playing and movement is essential for a child’s development. It is one of the most important things parents and carers can share with their children. It is our role to provide safe, suitable, challenging and engaging environments.

• Children younger than two years should not spend any time watching television or using electronic media such as computers and tablets

Children under five are learning to use their bodies. Regular physical activity through play not only improves motor skills and muscle and bone strength, it also develops a sense of self confidence and independence as children learn to handle themselves and develop life skills.

The term physical literacy may sound daunting.

As the basics of literacy are learning the alphabet and the sounds each letter makes, physical literacy enables our children to move competently and confidently, have a fundamental motivation to move and to be active and carry this through life. It is more than being ‘good’ at sport. It is about our children understanding their bodies, how to walk, how to balance, how to move and who they are. It is about self awareness, self confidence and self regulation.

Young children do their best when they are provided with a rich, stimulating environment in which to play. Playing games gives children the freedom to explore and problem solve. It gives them the chance to immerse themselves in imaginary worlds and lose track of time.

How much physical activity do young children need?*

• All children from birth to five years should not be sedentary, restrained or kept inactive for more than one hour at a time (with the exception of sleeping) • Infants (birth – 12 months) require regular physical activity through supervised floorbased play, which should be encouraged from birth

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How much time screen time can they have?*

• Children aged two – five years should spend no more than one hour a day sitting and watching television or using other electronic media

What is physical literacy and why is it important?

* Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines, Australian Government Department of Health

Young children can easily develop their physical literacy skills through active play. Being active comes naturally to most children. As parents and carers all we need to do is to provide a safe space and take the time to join in and play, as well as providing opportunities for children to play by themselves. Most parents and carers probably provide their children with regular active play experiences without realising.

Examples of active play include: • Free play outdoors • Dancing and singing • Imaginative play and pretend games • Hide and seek and other action games

The importance of physical activity in the early years Movement is essential for children to learn about themselves and their environment.

Regular physical activity: • Improves social and motor skills • Gives children a sense of accomplishment • Helps develop a sense of self • Increases school readiness • Increases learning capacity • Builds muscle and bone strength • Develops social, emotional and cognitive skills • Improves self confidence and concentration • Increases attention span • Creates lifelong healthy habits • Brings a sense of joy and achievement

The Bluearth approach to physical activity in early childhood

At Bluearth, we encourage parents and carers to simply play with their children. Get down on the floor and be fully involved in their games.

Head outside. Explore parks, sand pits, gardens, trees or the beach. Take the lead sometimes, but also follow the child’s lead. To allow a child to explore freely without any direction is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children.

Bluearth run early childhood programs that seek to create an enjoyable and engaging environment where children can explore how their minds and bodies help them move, how they can expend a lot of energy, and how to rest and relax.

Bluearth Foundation is a national health promotion charity, working to improve the health and wellbeing of our kids, one step at a time. You can find out more and make a donation at www.bluearth.org

lovely locals rn Road

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1. The perfect coffee - Primrose Hill Deli The rustic shelves here are laden with everything from truffle pastes, infused oils and nougat to jars of Syrian figs and locally baked bread. But you can’t go past the Syndicate coffee. Well I know I certainly can’t, I’m quite the regular!

765B Hawthorn Road

3.

2. Brunch and lunch - Marmalade Cafe Lunch at Marmalade never disappoints. Whether you sit out the front in the sun or inside this gorgeous quirky cafe, if you don’t try the chicken and avo sandwich you are truly mad. Back it up with a coconut and raspberry slice!

Bliss! Breakfast is pretty rocking too. 763 Hawthorn Road 3. Fitness for the mind - Tamtastic If you are looking for an awesome woman to take your fitness and mind by the reins, then Tam is your girl. She believes that everybody is unique and there’s no ‘one size fits all’ exercise program. She has a focus on functional movements that leave you feeling great after your group class or personal training session. Check out her family fun classes in the holidays too.

At In2great Fitness 765c Hawthorn Rd www.tamtasticfitness.com.au

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4. Superfoods - Raw Love Superfoods RawLove Superfoods specialises in providing informative and practical education on the outstanding health benefits of raw living superfoods and produce a range of decadent, healthy and yummy superfood treats and desserts. Join them for a class or pop in soon to check out their new raw food patisserie/bar. 760 Hawthorn Road www.rawlovesuperfoods.com.au 5. Organic health cafe - Herbs & Tonics Part cafe, part clinic, Sally Lillie, a qualified naturopath and nutritionist, offers healthy organic lunches, juices, smoothies as well as organic skin care products, as well as naturopathy, massage, facials and more. 758 Hawthorn Road

5.

6.

6. Personal Training - The Woodshed With over 15 years experience in the fitness industry, Sam has a fabulous team of hand picked personal trainers. They offer both group and individual sessions in his new purpose built gym that opens this October. Group classes are fun and action packed. Can’t wait to check it out and get involved again.

Level 1, 643 Nepean Hwy www.atthewoodshed.com.au 30

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31

A mother’s story of famIly violence Family violence is not only physical abuse. It is any behavior that controls or dominates a family member and causes them to fear for their own or other family member’s safety or wellbeing. Family violence is a violation of a woman’s basic human rights and is an issue that has recently come to the forefront of media and political attention in Australia.

This is Jane’s story...

When Jane first came to the Family Violence Service she didn’t realise she was experiencing family violence. She knew something wasn’t right in her relationship, but her partner had never physically hit her, he had never given her a black eye and she wasn’t covered in bruises.

Jane met her partner when they were in their early twenties, and she recalled the early days of their relationship as being exciting and fun.

Slowly, Jane realised that everything was changing after the birth of their children. She had a fulfilling career but her husband insisted that she stay at home with the children.

She agreed to this in the end but never felt like she had a choice in the decision.

Throughout the relationship Jane felt herself becoming more isolated from her friends and family. Leaving work meant she lost a lot of her social contacts, and every time she wanted to visit her family or friends her husband would make up an excuse of why she couldn’t. If any of Jane’s friends or family came to visit her

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husband would make it so uncomfortable that everyone stopped coming around to the house.

Each week Jane’s husband gave her an allowance for household purchases; if she wanted any extra money she had to beg for it. In contrast he would spend large amounts of money on new cars, vacations and houses without discussing it with her. Jane felt ungrateful complaining about this; she felt she should be happy as she had a great husband who provided for their family.

Over time Jane started to feel as though she was walking on eggshells in her own home.

The abuse would range from her husband watching TV and ignoring Jane and the kids to following her around the house for hours calling her names and putting her down in front of the children. There were times when he would throw things around the house or punch and kick the walls.

The Family Violence Service received a referral from the police for Jane after they attended a family violence incident at her property.

Through speaking about her experience with the Family Violence Service Jane learnt of the many different forms of family violence beyond physical abuse. She was able to see her husband’s abusive behaviours and slowly started to understand how her husband had used verbal abuse and financial control to keep her isolated.

The Family Violence Service linked Jane with a legal service so that she could access legal

advice about her situation. With the help of the Family Violence Service she applied for and was granted an Intervention Order against her husband and was able to exclude him from the family home. Jane decided that she wanted to remain in the family home so that the children’s routine was not disrupted. She was fearful that her husband might show up at the house demanding to see the children. The Family Violence Service assisted her with the cost of a lock change to help her feel safe and secure in her family home.

One of the primary barriers to leaving the relationship, for Jane, was that her husband had complete control of their finances.

The Family Violence Service helped her access a Centrelink income and referred her to a financial counsellor.

Due to her isolation Jane felt alone. She talked a lot about the grief she felt about the loss of her relationship and her dreams for her and her family’s future. With the help from the program she accessed counselling and a women’s support group, which helped her feel less isolated and allowed her to hear about other women’s experiences of family violence.

Jane talked about her concern of the impact of family violence on their children. The service helped the children access a range of support services.

With the help of the Family Violence Service Jane and her children are now living a happy and productive life free from family violence.

If you have experienced, and/or are currently experiencing family violence please contact The Salvation Army, Family Violence Service Monday to Friday 9am-4pm on 9536 7797.

The Family Violence Service offers the following programs: • Case management support: An outreach service that supports women with practical family violence needs.

• Private rental access program: Practical and financial support for women to stay in their current private rental or secure a new one.

• Peek-a-Boo group: A group for mothers and their newborn babies (up to 8 months) that works on strengthening the mother and baby bond.

• Superkids: A group for children aged 5-8 who have been exposed to family violence.

This group helps children identify their emotions.

• Women’s support group: An 8-week therapeutic support group for women who have experienced family violence.

If you or anyone you know is in immediate danger please contact 000. *All names in this story have been changed

By Zanetta Hartley – Social worker at the Salvation Army Family Violence Service The Salvation Army is dedicated to providing support to survivors of violence and their children through a variety of emergency responses such as refuge accommodation, and long-term support. www.salvationarmy.org.au

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Work from home as a

family day care educator.

We have families ready to start now!

Being a Windermere family day care educator means: • The flexibility of working from home • Hours to suit and fit in with your family needs • Marketing and recruitment assistance • Being fully supported to run your own business.

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Right now we’re looking for people with a genuine interest and passion for caring for children and who want to run their own business.

Training support provided.

To find out more, call Jade Kelso on 1300 946 337 for an Information Pack 34

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ASD and SPD x3 plus ADHD! About three and a half years ago my life changed completely. I was referred to a paediatrician after my MCHN could see that I was not coping with my son Oliver’s out of control behaviour.

After a relatively short process I was shocked to hear he was autistic. I always knew there was something different about him but autism? It never would have crossed my mind in a million years! I, like most people who have limited knowledge on ASD automatically thought of Rain Man and also the severely autistic kids who need permanent personal care that I occasionally saw on the news.

During the diagnostic process, as my knowledge of the neurological disorder grew, it wasn’t long before I realised my eldest son Sebastian must be on the spectrum too. My sweet little quirky kid who was speaking in sentences at nine months, taught himself how to read before he could walk, memorised half of the periodic table before he was three and could do complex maths equations before he started school, but who also had no friends, didn’t enjoy parties, and had massive overreactions to things that wouldn’t bother most people. Suddenly all of his odd behaviour made sense!

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I got a crash course in ASD after Sebastian was diagnosed a few weeks after Olly. All at once there was talk of psychology and occupational therapy and speech therapy and funding – it was overwhelming! But as hard as it was, I threw myself into therapy with the boys and read and watched everything I could on autism.

Kobe, my youngest, was two and a half then.

He had been such a good baby, a great sleeper, a perfect feeder but looking back I realised he was too content to just sit and stare into space.

He didn’t say much until after he turned one, but like Sebastian, he had also taught himself to read before he was 18 months old.

After a day trip to the early assessment clinic, Kobe was also diagnosed with autism just eight months after his two brothers.

I really struggled to come to terms with the fact that my boys had a disorder that is going to affect them for the rest of their lives. I couldn’t cope with all of the stress, anxiety and worry and ended up hitting rock bottom myself. But I finally dragged myself to the doctor and asked for help. This was the pivotal point for me where things started to get better and I actually felt like I could help my beautiful boys to succeed in life. With my doctor’s help and my emotions under control I felt empowered to do everything I could to help the boys cope with their lives and their emotions.

We were very lucky to be referred to some amazing therapists; they became like mentors for me and taught me so much. Our wonderful psychologist helped me learn so many strategies which helped our volatile household to calm down, our OT came to our house and created a more comfortable environment for my family and Sebastian benefited from attending a Social Group with his speech therapist.

I was also very fortunate to be welcomed into a wonderful ASD parent support group and I can’t thank the amazing people enough who helped me through the toughest year of my life.

I have made some fabulous friendships since our journey with ASD began and I will be forever grateful for all of the support and kindness I have been given.

I now help run the support group and I am so happy to be able to help others the way others helped me.

My boys also have Sensory Processing Disorder which means that their brains and nervous systems misinterpret everyday sensory experiences and process them incorrectly.

For Sebastian it means he is terrified of things like getting water in his ears and eyes, putting on sunscreen, loud noises, tight seatbelts etc.

Kobe has big issues with food texture and is extremely tactile whereas Oliver is a sensory seeker which means he seeks out noise and movement to the point where he can’t sit still!

Oliver also has ADHD which causes him to be inattentive, overly active and impulsive so he is a ball of loud energy most of the time!

Having the boys diagnosed has assisted immensely as I have been able to structure our lives to help them cope with day-to-day living.

I work closely with our unbelievably incredible school and kinder staff to ensure the boys are properly supported in the classroom and I am very thankful for the acceptance and inclusion I feel from them. Our life is certainly not typical, in fact sometimes it is really hard and we can’t always do things that other families can. But my boys are doing so well and I am very proud of them.

The reason I have shared my story is I want people to know that you are not alone. There is help for you if you ask for it.

Remember; a diagnosis isn’t the end of the world, it is just the beginning of a different journey.

By Jody Mehlhopt.

Jody has just started a business inspired by her three autistic boys. Her online store sells sensory products for special kids with special needs (and those that just want to have fun). www.sensoryoasisforkids.com.au www.facebook.com/SensoryOasisForKids

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Does life feel like a roller-coaster sometimes?

Do your relationship problems seem to repeat over and over?

Sometimes everything’s great and everyone’s happy and you say to yourself “things aren’t so bad”, then you plummet back to earth and don’t know how to stop or resolve issues?

Bayside Counselling Service provides counselling for individuals, couples, families and children.

Please call Family Life on (03) 8599 5488 or visit www.baysidecounsellingservice.com.au 39

osteopathy benefits With an increasing acceptance for a holistic approach towards achieving mental and physical wellness, osteopathy is gaining recognition in Australia. But is it a new concept?

Well, the answer is No. The practice can be traced back to 460-370 BC. For many centuries people have been practicing manual manipulation to treat a wide range of problems. However, modern osteopathy was essentially born in the 19th century with Dr Andrew Taylor Still, an American physician. Osteopathy is a holistic approach towards achieving a healthy body where the musculoskeletal system is the centre of good physical health. Osteopathic treatments are based on the principal that the structure and function of the body are unified and interrelated; hence, osteopaths assess a person’s whole body to detect the cause of a problem, including bone structure, body posture, occupation and lifestyle. Osteopaths are well versed in human anatomy and physiology; and use therapeutic manual techniques to assess, diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions.

Osteopathy is particularly beneficial for pregnant women as well as young children.

Osteopaths use the most appropriate treatment techniques to maximise the safety and comfort for the mother as well as the growing baby in the womb.

Apart from the physical changes, many other problems like back pain, pelvic girdle pain or instability, swelling, carpal tunnel syndrome and fatigue start raising their heads as the pregnancy progresses. Your osteopath can advise you on pelvic floor and other exercises to help with the optimal foetal positioning and gentle stretches to assist with any muscle pain or discomfort.

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Osteopaths also help women achieve and maintain optimal spinal and pelvic alignment to accommodate for the postural changes that occur during pregnancy and improve flexibility in the pelvis and abdomen to prepare them for a healthy delivery process.

Osteopathy does not only help new mums to recover from the whole process and regain body strength after the childbirth, but also help their toddlers and young children. Yes, there might be many reasons for your toddler or a young child to see an osteopath today.

One of the major parts of the growing up for children includes growth of bones, muscles and development of postures. This process is long and requires attention as early as any signs of oddity are detected. What are these signs? The early signs in infants may include delayed or abnormal crawling or walking patterns, suckling difficulties, flat head, constant crying etc while in the older child, signs of concern may include back pain and headaches, growing pains in muscles, joints and bones, postural problems including curvature of the spine, walking difficulties or foot pain and/or sporting injuries.

When it comes to babies and children, safety and gentleness is as important a concern as in the case of pregnancy. Osteopaths take extreme care and conduct a full medical history and examination of babies and children before carrying out any treatment. All the potential causes or contributing factors for any sort of abnormality are checked along with any biochemical restrictions or abnormal movement patterns and other milestone checks. The treatment plan may include a few simple sessions with an osteopath to address any dysfunction and to review related progress.

If need to be, osteopaths may also refer for any other specialist treatment or therapy alongside osteopathic treatment.

By Dr. Julia Redfern (Osteopath)
B.Sc.(Clin.Sc.) M.H.Sc.(Osteopathy)

The Osteo Clinic - theosteoclinic.com.au

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pass the packet Did you know in the 70’s there were about 3,000-4,000 packets on supermarket shelves? Fast-forward to today and it’s estimated there is now about 80,000 packets on supermarket shelves.

There’s no denying it – life gets crazier and busier when you become a parent, and preparing food has become a bigger challenge than ever before. With many households now having two working parents, the explosion of packaged products has been marketed as the answer for busy parents. They are convenient and fast, they last longer on our shelves and they are designed to make us want to eat them.

These products are rarely made with real food, offer little nutritional value and many are laden with ingredients made in chemistry labs. But unfortunately, the explosion of these packets has seen this kind of food become the norm.

Packet foods are made in manufacturing plants, using science. Real food is made from real plants (fruits and vegetables) using nature – soil, sun and water. They have a natural intelligence (eg. fibre, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, carbs, fats and proteins) that most people are usually able to use without ill effects. Real food also includes grass raised and fed meats – the animals are raised without antibiotics and hormones in paddocks where they are free to roam.

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Packet food on the other hand is quite different. It is manufactured. There is no natural intelligence – it’s man made and sometimes designed to mimic the attributes of real food.

Packet food is big business. The science and strategy behind packet food is huge. Packet foods are usually developed in the research and development departments of big business.

It’s probably fair to say our health is not their top priority.

A food scientist or food technologists uses scientific research to look at the properties and the functions of different ingredients.

When developing packet products, three main components get added to give them flavour – salt, fat and sugar. Additives and preservatives also get added to products. Some of their purposes are enhancing flavour, texture, moisture, shelf life etc.

Once a product is researched and designed, it is then tested. Big businesses are looking for what’s called the bliss point – the point at which an ingredient is added that optimises the palatability of the product. For example, if sugar

is added, it’s the point at which the sugar is deemed to be neither ‘too sweet’ or ‘not sweet enough’. It’s the point at which we can keep eating and then want to keep eating some more of the food.

So what can you do?

The science used to develop a packet doesn’t stop there. There’s a science in the way the packaging is developed. What picture, colours and words get used on the front of a packet to attract its target market? Then there’s the ads on TV, radio, buses, bus shelters, supermarkets and more. What about how the packets are strategically positioned on the supermarket shelf? Now they even use words which are designed to make us think the packet is good for our health.

Fill up your plates and lunchboxes with real food, and start to reduce the amount of packets.

Is there any wonder we have such a hard time trying to tell our kids they can’t have certain things?

The growth of packet foods has happened so quickly, and it’s only now – some 30-40 years later – that the effects are coming to light.

Scarily, once you start researching all of this, it becomes a little reminiscent of cigarettes and the impact tobacco has had on the health of the world.

Thanks to the incredible work of Damon Gameau of That Sugar Film and Sarah Wilson of I Quit Sugar, the effects of sugar and products marketed as “low fat” (often having more sugar so they taste better) are now starting to become better known.

Keep in mind, 1 teaspoon of sugar is 4 grams of sugar. The World Health Organization recommends adults limit sugar to 6 teaspoons a day, and many are saying this means children should only have 3-4 teaspoons a day.

Given the number of packaged products now consumed in a day, does anyone else find this concerning? And this is not even taking into account that one packet alone can have many additives and preservatives in it as well.

Follow these 4 simple steps: 1. Add in more real foods and crowd out the number of packets

2. Start reading food packets labels NOW Start by ignoring the front of the packet, and turn to the back. This is where you’ll find everything you need to know. Look at the amount of sugar; look at what the additives and preservatives are. To save you from going into overwhelm, choose only a couple of packets a week to look at.

3. Ask yourself this important question “Do I really want to be putting this into my body (or my family’s bodies) now I know what’s in it?”

4. Can I find a better alternative?

This is important, because sometimes the same products made by different brands can have vastly different amounts of ingredients and additives and preservatives.

As my parting words, please remember, where you are at is totally perfect. Everyone starts at zero, and as long as you make a start, you will move away from zero towards better health.

Here’s my action for you – choose a packet food you use for breakfast, choose a packet food you use for lunch, and a packet food you use at dinner (this includes jars of sauces).

Follow the steps above for just these 3 items this week. Then next week, start again with 3 new items. You can do it!

Written by Belinda Smith from The 5 Minute Healthy Lunchbox System™.

Find out more at therootcause.com.au

Packet foods are rarely made with real food, they offer little nutritional value and many are laden with ingredients made in chemistry labs.

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Parklife

MamaMag park of the month!

Mentone racecourse reserve 40-50 Glenelg Drive, Mentone This park has been on my to-do list for ages, and whilst it is at the opposite end of Bayside to me, it is sure worth the travel.

As the name suggests, it is built on the site of the old Mentone Racecourse, which was in operation from 1888 until 1948. It was then used as a training track until most of it was converted into a housing estate in the early 70’s. And luckily for those new residents (and us) a large area was preserved and made into the gorgeous park and lake we see today.

Fittingly the reserve has a horseracing theme throughout. The main structure has a long ramp flanked by images of horses leading to the finish line. Little ones love the horse springers and there are two large horses resting under a tree that are worth a little sit on.

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There are slides, climbing wall, fireman’s pole, a tunnel, rope ladder, tic-tac-toe, curved vertical rope climbing frame. The flying fox is a big draw card to the park for the bigger kids. There is a maze to explore and a sandpit with two diggers and a rocky creek bed leading down to the lake with a musical turtle. Further around the lake is an area with four swings (including one with a harness), two stand-on spinners and a carousel.

There are shelters with tables and BBQ plus shaded and unshaded seats scattered about the area. Toilets, water taps. Plenty of grass for the sporty types - a basketball key and hoop, oval with soccer net at one end, and AFL goals at the other, and a wall for tennis practice. Dogs are allowed on lead and make sure you bring a picnic, as there are countless lovely spots to set up your rug.

WIN

1 of 3 BRATZ packs worth $116 each!

The Bratz believe in thinking for themselves, creating the things they dream of, and making every day an absolute adventure.

The Bratz love tackling problems creatively, living in the moment, thinking outside the box, and most of all HAVING FUN! Each prize pack includes: 4 x Bratz Hello My Name Is Dolls worth $29 each (a Cloe, Jade & Yasmin for you and an extra Cloe for your BFF!)

Thanks to our friends at:

Then post your entry by October 31st to: MamaMag PO Box 8018 North Road LPO, Brighton East VIC 3187

Name: Address:

Age: Postcode: 45

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Friday 27th November 10am-3pm at the Sandringham Hotel

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Chris Humfrey’s

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.

GREAT GIFT IDEA!

Bookings and Enquiries www.wildaction.com.au Phone 0419 385 24547

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Travel beyond boundaries Family Holidays

Let Bayview Travel be your family’s travel concierge, with first hand specialised knowledge of destinations and family experiences world wide. Let us help you create the perfect holiday for you and your family.

Embark on your holiday with peace of mind, knowing every detail is managed by your personal advisor.

Bayview House Suite 1, 232 Bay Street, Brighton, VIC, 3186 PH: 03 9596 7299 www.bayviewtravel.com.au