Get Ahead Kids Magazine Vol. 1. No. 2. Mar/Apr 2009

FOR FAMIL IES ON THE GO

Vol. 1 • No. 2 • Mar/Apr 09

John Marsden Interview

+

Kids & Vitamin D Deficiency New Life at University

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Mar/Apr 2009

Contents

This Month’s

FO R FA MILIE S O N T HE G O

Spotlight

4

Editorial Your Letters

6

6 An Interview with John Marsden

Spotlight An Interview with John Marsden

Languages 8 9 10 12

Foreign Languages in Australia Best Way to Learn French Learn a Second Language with Bilingual Dolls Baby Sign Language

Education & Training Get Ahead Kids™ © MAP Marketing 2009 Publisher MAP Marketing ABN 38 003 493 007 Villa Franca, 2 Scott St Newcastle NSW 2300 www.getaheadkids.com.au P: 02 4929 7766 Managing Editor Maria Charlton MAP Marketing ABN 38 003 493 007 Villa Franca, 2 Scott St Newcastle NSW 2300 E: maria@mapmarketing.com.au P: 02 4929 7766 Graphic Design Katie Hurst MAP Marketing P: 02 4929 7766 Advertising Maria Charlton MAP Marketing ABN 38 003 493 007 Villa Franca, 2 Scott St Newcastle NSW 2300 E: maria@mapmarketing.com.au P: 02 4929 7766 Get Ahead Kids™ is published by Marketing Advisers for Professionals Pty Ltd T/A MAP Marketing. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for the opinions, errors or omissions.

13 14

Practical Skills Training New Life at University

Health 16 18

Join Popeye & Eat More Spinach Kids & Vitamin D Deficiency

20

Green Issues Contaminated Wastelands Can Be Saved

21

People in Focus Justin Bergholcs

Sport & Recreation 22 24

Thrilling Quad Bikes Buying Quad Gear For Kids

Business 26

In Search of a Better Family Life

28

Activity Zone

30

Reviews

30 34 35

Subscription Advertisers Index Distribution

www.getaheadkids.com.au

3

Editorial

Get Ahead Kids came about because there was a gap in the market for an easy to read magazine that targets families interested in their kids’ education.

Our readers have spoken and we have met their expectations. We did not receive a single gong. All comments both negative and positive are welcome!

A must read for this issue is John Marsden’s interview. After reading the interview one of my colleagues said: “Maria I want to know more!” We would love to do a follow up article on John at a later date.

I particularly enjoyed the articles on Baby Signing and the Quad Bikes.

Enjoy reading Get Ahead Kids and keep the letters coming.

Maria Charlton Managing Editor P: 02 4929 7766 E: maria@mapmarketing.com.au

Passing of Dr Greg Robinson Dear Maria,

He sadly passed away in December 2008 - which was one of the reasons

We received several copies of your

the clinic was moved to Wallsend in

magazine ‘Get Ahead Kids’ Vol. 1

2007. He has trained Dr Joan Brien

and were very happy to read your

and she now is the diagnostician

article on Irlen Syndrome.

working in the Clinic.

The Irlen Clinic that was located Please send letters and stories with

We see clients from north of Gosford,

at the Special Education Centre

your name and contact details to:

the Hunter Valley and up to and

at the University of Newcastle was

including Coffs Harbour.

Get Ahead Kids Villa Franca, 2 Scott St Newcastle NSW 2300 F: (02) 4929 7827 E: maria@mapmarketing.com.au

moved to Suite 2, 136 Nelson Street, Wallsend 2287 in April, 2007. I have

The more useful website that could

been speaking to the Director of

be used is www.aaic.org.au and this

the Special Education Centre and

relates to all the clinics in Australia

he would like to know if you could

and New Zealand.

advise that the address for the Irlen Clinic was incorrect.

Thank you again for such a great article.

The Irlen Lens program was operated by my husband Dr Greg

Regards Bev Robinson

Robinson since 1986, with Greg

Regional Director

researching extensively in the area.

4

Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

Your Letters

Dear Maria,

Hi Maria,

I recently picked up your new

I’m writing to congratulate you and

publication ‘Get Ahead Kids’ and

your team on the first issue of the

thought that it was a great tool for

‘Get Ahead Kids’ magazine. The

our local education community to

articles were very informative and

communicate. Articles for parents

the graphic design very impressive. I

were useful and informative and

look forward to future issues.

Are you looking for quality education in a caring Christian environment?

Limited places available for 2009

CALL 4979 8484 Sound learning for each individual in an affordable, natural setting

the publication is also an avenue for opening up discussion and

Kind Regards,

recognition of what goes on in our

Phil Mahoney

schools, colleges and universities.

Retail Success Promotions Manager

Yours Sincerely,

49 Turner Street

Angela Leyden

Lambton NSW 2299 P: 02 4952 9382

Soaring Success

E: office@retailsuccess.com.au www.retailsuccess.com.au

Finally an Australian magazine for both kids and adults!

Dear Maria,

82468

M: 0408 965 690

A Year K – 12 Anglican School in the Diocese of Newcastle 256 MINMI ROAD, FLETCHER • PO BOX 294, WALLSEND 2287

www.btac.nsw.edu.au

Congratulations on the inaugural ‘Get Ahead Kids’. Great stuff!

Best wishes to everyone at ‘Get Ahead Kids’. May your new magazine soar.

Paul Collins www.paulcollins.com.au

I hope this email finds you happy and well and that you are having a great start to 2009. If the first magazine issue of Get Ahead Kids is anything to go by, you are having a

“It does not cost any more to help our environment at NCP Printing.”

tremendously successful start.

I just wanted to contact you to say thanks for the opportunity to get

Hi Maria,

involved with GAK and that I think

I have just read your January issue

It looks fabulous, has a very

and thought it was great.

professional lay-out and contains

that the inaugural issue is excellent.

well written and relevant articles Joel Howlett JD’s World of Magic www.jd4magic.com

throughout.

Best regards, Nora Jones P: 02 4953 7975

17 Arnott Street Newcastle West NSW 2302 Tel: 02 4926 1300 Fax: 02 4926 5557 Email: sales@ncp.com.au Web: www.ncp.com.au

Cert no. SCS-COC-001371

M: 0418 402 150 www.kidswrite.biz

www.getaheadkids.com.au

5

Spotlight

An Interview with

John Marsden How do you contribute to the

Why did you choose teaching over

education of kids?

a career in law?

I try to create an environment where

Law seemed so rigid. I had the

they are not pressured and pulled

feeling that a career in law would

and prodded all the time. A school

change me and shape me into a

where the teaching is sparky, edgy

person who was different to the kind

and interesting, where kids can be

of person I wanted to be. Teaching

Opening a carton and seeing the

adventurous, and where they are

allowed me to be creative, to

published copies of my first book, `So

trusted.

work with people, to do something

Much to Tell You’.

What is the most memorable part of attending The King’s School?

The quasi-military atmosphere! We marched around and carried rifles

What do you value most in life?

The emotional health of all people, but perhaps especially children.

What is your most unforgettable personal experience?

socially important... oh yeah, and to have long holidays!

What is your favourite Australian destination and why?

What is the most memorable part of your first job at a mortuary?

The Cross-Cut Saw, which I used as the setting for the ‘Tomorrow’ series.

and saluted teachers and prefects...

The bodies were so uncooperative.

These wild, strong, fierce Victorian

you don’t see that often in Australia!

When you tried to move them, they

mountains attract me with a power I

I don’t think it gave me the slightest

did nothing to help at all.

can never resist.

What are your career highlights?

What is your best overseas

respect for the military approach to life.

Please tell us about your family

Taking the manuscript of the next

experience?

book in the ‘Tomorrow’ series, to a

I guess just walking the streets of

My partner’s name is Kris, and she’s

young woman who was dying of

Paris. I could do that all day, every

a wonderful person, creative and

cystic fibrosis, because she wanted

day. The shop windows, the

intelligent. We have six boys, aged

to read it before she died.

passers-by, even the cars and bikes,

between 4 and 14. My mother is still going strong, at 89, and I have two sisters and a brother.

What are your hobbies?

Winning the Lloyd O’Neil Award for contributions to Australian

are like a great free art show.

What do your books offer readers?

publishing.

I hope, with some books, a chance Seeing kids at Candlebark do stuff -

to understand life a little better.

It sounds boring to say education,

like a Grade 3 boy at lunchtime

That readers might understand

but I’m fascinated by it. Also, I love

yesterday doing a kind of dance

themselves and others at a deeper

backyard cricket, on-line scrabble,

with a plastic bag and a stick, for

level perhaps, by reading books

and reading.

ten minutes or so, with me thinking

like Checkers. With other books,

“At many schools he wouldn’t feel

just sheer escapism, to a different

free enough to express himself like

world where readers can be with

that.”

characters that are somehow more attractive and interesting than anyone in real life!

6

Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

Spotlight

About John Marsden With more than 30 books and over three million sales, John Marsden is one of the most successful teen writers. He is a leading author of teenage fiction and his controversial

Candlebark aims to attain the

Teachers at Candlebark have

highest possible academic

extraordinary skills and backgrounds!

standards and good manners, in a

The science/IT teacher holds a Ph.D.,

tranquil, beautiful setting. There is no

the art teacher is a well-known

school uniform, and everyone is on

and successful artist and published

a first name basis.

poet. One of the music teachers

novels have a loyal following in

Classes are small; in 2008 they

Australia and overseas.

ranged from 5 to 15. For many years,

Born in 1950, John’s family moved to Sydney when he was 9 years old. He was enrolled at The King’s School, Parramatta, renowned for its military style of education.

He taught at Geelong Grammar School, and became Head of English at the school’s Timbertop campus.

In 1982, he spent an overnight stint in jail after being arrested while on the blockade to stop construction of the Franklin Dam. This experience provided the inspiration for “Letters

John has argued that private and public Australian schools are full of rigid structures, overbearing rules

has had works commissioned by Opera Australia and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. And, English teacher, John Marsden is a renowned, best selling author.

and cumbersome frameworks which

John Marsden’s published books

all deter learning.

include:

He urges for the breakdown in

The ‘Tomorrow’ series

communication barriers between

• Tomorrow, When the War Began

adults and young people and a focus on confidence building.

(1993) • The Dead Of The Night (1994)

John’s ideal school has high

• The Third Day, The Frost (1995)

physical, moral and academic

• Darkness, Be My Friend (1996)

standards and these have been woven into the culture of Candlebark.

• Burning For Revenge (1997) • The Night Is For Hunting (1998) • The Other Side Of Dawn (1999)

from The Inside” and parts of the

At Candlebark there is an endearing

‘Tomorrow’ series.

relationship between the staff and

The Ellie Chronicles - follow up series

the students. John states that in

to the ‘Tomorrow’ series:

John’s ‘Tomorrow’ series is recognised as the most popular Australian book series for young

novels and schools, the emphasis is on relationship building.

• While I live (2003) • Incurable (2005)

adults. His first book of this series,

The first thing a school should

“Tomorrow, When the War Began”,

pay attention to is the physical

has been reprinted 26 times in

environment, whether it is located

Candlebark School

Australia.

in the city or the country. Beauty

83 Kerrie Road

is important and it should surround

Romsey VIC 3434

young people so that they grow up

P: (03) 5427 0384

in that atmosphere.

F: (03) 5427 0395

His current project is developing an alternative school, Candlebark, on his bush property, in the foothills of

E: enquiries@candlebark.info

the Macedon Ranges, half an hour

Schools need to be full of surprises,

north of Melbourne airport, and

innovative, flexible and should

near Hanging Rock. It opened on

maintain a high academic

31 January 2006. In 2008 the school

standard.

had 87 students ranging from Prep to Year 9.

• Circle of Flight (2006)

www.candlebark.info

He wants a school that has a good sense of humour and an

This school encourages students to

expectation that there is a “yes” to

take calculated risks. “Take care,

things instead of “no”.

take risks” could be seen as the school motto.

www.getaheadkids.com.au

7

Languages

Australia

Foreign Languages in According to the 2006 Australian census, the major foreign languages spoken in Australian homes are: • Italian • Greek • Cantonese • Arabic • Mandarin

• Allows a child to explore other cultures & communicate with more people - at home & abroad • Creates new opportunities for future employment • Boosts understanding of

• Vietnamese

languages in general & enables

People, aged five years and over,

language more effectively

who reported speaking a language other than English at home were mainly counted in New South Wales (1,015,862 people) and Victoria (816,558). These States had high proportions of overseas-born people who were born in countries other than the United Kingdom, Ireland and New Zealand.

Official United Nations Languages The United Nations declared

students to use their native • Has a ripple effect, helping to improve student performance in other subjects • Helps appreciate international

Helpful Tips for Bilingual Teaching Give children plenty of practice in both languages Children learn languages best from people not DVDs Read to children in both languages Use language the same way with all of your children Have patience with mistakes & language switching

literature, music & film translation.

Sing songs & play games

Translations rarely match the

to help develop language

intent, beauty, style, & uniqueness

comprehension skills

of its original

Language lessons help children

• Provides deeper & more satisfying travel experiences • Expands study abroad options - for

appreciate foreign culture & heritage Research shows that language

2008 the Year of Languages

advanced language students, the

students learn more effectively &

and recognised that “genuine

opportunities are even greater

retain more when they study

multilingualism promotes unity

• Provides children with the

frequently & for shorter periods of time

in diversity and international

opportunity of seeing themselves &

understanding”. Its six official

their culture from an outside

The absolute best way to learn

languages were Arabic, Chinese,

perspective

vocabulary is through the use

English, French, Russian and Spanish.

Reasons to Teach Children a Second

• Helps children understand the language & culture better through

of flash cards that you make yourself

Language

the relationship between the

Say vocabulary words out loud,

foreign language, e.g. studying

read passages in the text aloud,

• Increases understanding of the

Greek allows understanding of

do pronunciation activities orally &

mind & context of the foreign

the origin & meaning of numerous

not just mentally

language

English words

Maximise language exposure -

• Helps a child to develop selective attention skills

speak to people, rent a movie in the target language, or listen to authentic audio or video online E: info@languageseducation.com

8

www.languageseducation.com

Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

Languages

Best Way to Learn

French

So you want to learn to speak

Rocket French also contains 45

French? Perhaps you want to

illustrated grammar lessons and

reinforce your existing language

claims to take you from beginner to

studies or you are about to travel

advanced in your French speaking.

to a French speaking country. Or

The grammar lessons include over

you may want to learn another

400 pages of grammar, over 3,000

language to enrich your experiences

audio tracks and 788 exercises and

and embark on a journey of

activities.

discovering a new culture. Also, you want to be able to do this in the best way and the shortest time.

If you want to speak fluent French in two months, Rocket French has been reviewed as a great product to help you achieve this. www.frenchcoursereviews.com probed, tried and exposed 5 French language learning products and concluded one stood out above

Review of Rocket French www.frenchcoursereviews.com concluded that Rocket French:

Best of all, Rocket French offers a free six-day trial course and a “Full

Was the most fun

Money Back Guarantee”.

The interactive audio lessons

Marie-Claire Rivière of Rocket French

were light & humorous

states:

Each audio course was reinforced with several

“You will be able to enter into a

interactive software games

different culture, a different world!

Being bilingual is a very special

It can be conveniently

ability, and it’s a gift that we want to

purchased online via instant

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download

the rest. Rocket French was rated

Rocket French Reviews Out of a

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Teaching Power

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It also fulfilled its promise to have

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Overall Rating

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The 31 tracks in the Rocket French

For more Information: www.rocketlanguages.com

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Interactive Audio Course are an average of 20 minutes in length, and cover 11 hours of audio lessons.

Transcripts of the conversations in the lessons are included so you can use the scripts to keep up with the lessons. These lessons are reputed to

Overall Rating Fun Power Value for Money

cover everything that you need to know to become part of the local French community - introducing yourself, having a conversation and

Teaching Power 93

94

95

96

97

98

99

getting help in an emergency.

www.getaheadkids.com.au

9

Languages

Learn a Second Language with

Bilingual Dolls A great way to teach your child (three years plus) a second language is by using the comfort of a bilingual doll (40cm).

Kids can travel and play with this toy - whilst becoming familiar with a second language.

With the press of a palm, the doll says an English word or phrase followed by the selected second language. The word timing is perfect for both language versions. And, the doll comes with an easy-to-follow language translation so that parents and kids can become familiar with the written word.

These soft-bodied dolls represent kids from France, Italy, China, Japan, Korea, Israel, Germany, Greece, Russia and Spanish-speaking countries. In contrast to many commercially available blonde and blue-eyed dolls, these dolls are different in culture and appearance.

Jolie

Ling

10 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

Emma

Alexa

Sarah

David

Languages Each doll is equipped with a sophisticated sound module, safely concealed in the doll’s stomach.

Unlike other speaking dolls, these dolls have a human recorded voice.

Small wires extend through the arms to allow the hands to be activated

Lizzie speaks Spanish & English Press Lizzie’s right hand to hear a series

Press Lizzie’s left hand to

of greetings

hear her count to ten &

when pressed.

list her favourite animals

Simply press one of the dolls hands and it recites a series of “kid friendly” phrases. Press the other hand and it will count, recite colors, and/or days of the week. Press its knee it says “I love you”.

Each doll offers a direct translation from English to its foreign language with perfect intonation. It offers instant rewards so kids delight in showing off their ‘fluency’ in a new

Press her

language.

knee to hear “I love you!”

Each doll speaks up to 30 child-friendly words and phrases; from greetings, numbers, favourite colours, and days of the week.

These dolls now come in 10 different languages:

The bilingual doll is a suitable toy for

1. Greek - Alexa

tool for day care,

2. Russian - Anna

child care, and pre-primary. Its

3. Italian - Sophie

advantages include:

4. German - Emma

• Interactive toy

5. Spanish - Lizzie & Ricky

• Creative tool for parents

6. Mandarin - Ling

• Educational tool

7. Korean - Young Hee

• Fun toy

8. French - Jolie

• Great travel mate

9. Hebrew - Sarah & David

• Connect a child with his/her

all children and a great educational

Get Ahead Learning P: 1300 657 220 P: 02 4946 7277 E: enquiries@getaheadlearning.com.au www.getaheadlearning.com.au

cultural heritage

10. Japanese - Yumi

Sophie

Enquiries

Yumi

Anna

Lizzie

Ricky

Young Hee

www.getaheadkids.com.au

11

Languages

Baby Sign Language Jo Mason-Pagett

Why wait for your child to talk before

More studies, and many parents

you start communicating?

first hand experiences, continue to

All parents want to give their child the best start in language, love and life. Baby Sign Language is an effective tool, providing the building blocks to help you achieve all of these things.

prove the bountiful positive results both short and long term, that this language skill provides. “We teach our babies to sign ‘hello, goodbye’ and ‘give five’, why not teach

Here are some of the many benefits

them to sign something useful like

enjoyed from using Baby Sign

‘milk’, ‘thirsty’, ‘hungry’ or ‘sleep’ so

Language:

Baby Sign Language gives the

that’s what we did, and we have

ability, using your hands, to

never looked back. Frustrations

communicate with your baby

are replaced with excitement as

before speech occurs.

we ‘catch’ our baby signing his needs to us. Now it is just a matter of

The signs are taken from Auslan

keeping up with him” - parents of an

(Australian Sign Language). This

8 month old signing baby.

Enjoy earlier communication & earlier speech A closer bond will be formed Baby & you will be less frustrated Empower your baby with greater self-esteem & self-confidence

is a beautiful and rich language, which has its own unique grammar

Research is showing, that utilising

structure.

Sign Language, is also proving

Help increase vocabulary

successful with non verbal children,

Promote a higher interest in

The signs used are very simple,

who have Autism, Down Syndrome

books & reading

enabling parents to enjoy a two

and other brain or speech disorders.

way conversation months before

Signing can enable these children to

speech development. Babies

express their needs in a way that is

naturally use hand gestures to try

more socially acceptable and easily

and communicate, so signing simply

understood. This communication

hones in on this skill.

method will provide a more positive

This is not a new concept. Research has actually been going on throughout the US and UK for the

experience for the child, reduce frustration and enable a closer bond with their parent or carer.

Help build more of your child’s brain function through the stimulation of both brain hemispheres giving the potential to increase IQ For More Information Jo Mason-Pagett M: 0407 717 222

past couple of decades. The most

So, for parents and carers who

E: enquiries@signitbaby.com.au

significant studies were conducted

choose to benefit, they can open a

www.signitbaby.com.au

by Dr Joseph Garcia, Dr Susan

window into their child’s mind and

Goodwyn and Dr Linda Acredolo.

be able to explore together what

Their combined findings revealed

they are thinking, need and want.

many advantages, some of

Baby Sign Language is fun and

these were accelerated speech

will enhance communication for

development, larger vocabularies

everyone!

and an increased IQ.

12 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

Jo Mason-Pagett

Holly Johnson

Education & Training

Practical Skills Training The CB Alexander Tocal College

The Tocal campus is the only NSW

provides a blend of agricultural

residential agricultural college with

training and practical experience

large commercial farms. These

for school leavers and other people

offer students practical experience

who may be interested in careers

to prepare them for careers in

• Calf & lamb marking

in agriculture. It offers a unique

agriculture or related professions.

• Rope knots

Students gain broad practical skills

• Milking cows

on the Tocal farms that run, up to

• Vaccination & drenching of

experience in the great outdoors and unique approach to individual and team learning.

1,500 beef cattle, 70 Australian

Tocal College is a NSW leader in

stock horses, 200 cow dairy herd,

part time and full time agricultural

300 sheep for prime lamb and wool

courses, short courses and distance

production and 4 poultry sheds

education.

producing more than 500,000

sheep & cattle • Mouthing cattle & sheep • Estimating weight of animals • Operating a front end loader

chickens per year.

• Using a handheld GPS system

training, industry-relevant skills and

Tocal facilitates the acquisition of 70

Students with farm experience can

experiences in general agriculture,

practical farm skills including:

receive credit for any farm skills they

The College provides practical

beef cattle, dairying, business management, sheep production,

already have. They get the chance • Safe tractor operation & maintenance

cropping and conservation and land management.

This training is offered to Year 10, 11 or 12 school leavers. Tocal training

first aid, farm chemicals and

• Riding motor bikes & quads

woolclassing during their time at the

• Chainsaw operation

college. This adds to the students’

• Conventional & electric fencing

provides a practical pathway to

• Using hand tools

careers in agriculture or gaining

• Horse riding

credit in a variety of university

• Mustering & cattle work

degrees.

to gain accreditation in welding,

skills base and makes them more employable on farms.

P: 1800 025 520

• Handling sheep

E: info@tocal.com www.tocal.com

The Practical Advantage Courses in Agriculture & Horse Husbandry Large number of scholarships available Open Days in July & October school holidays

Phone: 1800 025 520 www.tocal.com www.getaheadkids.com.au

13

Education & Training

New Life at

University

Hints for New University Students

Make New Friends

Settle into University Life

courses, the university campus can

Make sure you have what you need

and make some effort, you will

and know where you are going

develop a new set of friends. You

within the university campus. Allow

can meet new friends in lectures,

time to adjust to university life and to

student union(s), tutorials, as well

manage your time, as you are about

as social and sporting clubs. Great

to juggle a number of things other

relationships are not developed

First year university students may

than starting university lectures,

overnight. It takes effort and

feel at odds being away from their

tutorials and labs.

common experiences to cement

University is different to high school.

The freedom, independence and lack of constant monitoring are factors that make university life both exhilarating and exhausting.

Students who were high achievers in structured high school classes may find it hard to manoeuvre the buildings labyrinth and liberal class environment.

normal high school networks for the

If your school friends are doing other be a lonely place. If you allow time

friendships.

first time and hesitant about forming

Establish a Routine

new friendships.

Establish a routine that includes

In addition, university classes are

attending lectures, completing

more difficult than those in high

research and doing assignments.

school. There is a need for

Maintain your sporting and

commitment to ongoing background

recreational activities to give you

reading and preparation prior to

that energy boost you need for

attending lectures. And there is

your new life. Plan your home

nobody there to insist you do this. It

surroundings so that you can find

takes self discipline and dedication

everything to facilitate progress and

to last the distance.

success.

and academic standards and not

Practice Self Discipline

and develop your study and

At university, there is no one to check up that you are attending lectures and tutorials. When the course is unfamiliar, it may sound garbled if you do not complete your background reading prior to attending lectures. Ensure that you attend lectures even if you have not finished all your reading because you can pick up more information than not attending at all. If you miss too many classes it will affect you, impacting on your grades. Ensure that you use the “Swiss Cheese Approach� in finishing assignments by breaking large tasks to manageable chunks.

14 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

It is important to choose your friends wisely - those who support you in your course progress. Friends who want to party and have a good time at the expense of a good education can be a serious handicap.

Set High Academic Standards It is important to set high personal second guess yourself. Research examination skills to support you towards getting better grades. High grades do count as they indicate to university staff and future employers your persistence and dedication.

Use Student Services As an enrolled university student, there are a diverse number of services and resources at your disposal including academic, social, sporting, spiritual, careers and counselling services. It is wise to ask for help while your problems are small as these often accumulate and become big issues.

Education & Training Reward Yourself It is important to reward yourself for completing an assignment and getting good grades in exams.

Take time off, enjoy family life. Take a holiday or just have fun!

First Week Checklist Attend Orientation Day Enrol in all courses or lectures for Semester 1 Obtain schedule outlines for all courses Purchase books & resources for enrolled courses Become aware of the location of all lectures, tutorials & laboratories Have a copy of the academic calendar Obtain a Student ID card Ensure you have received an internet username, password & email address Remember to check student email account for messages Know the location of the student union Explore social, sporting & recreational activities www.australia.edu

www.getaheadkids.com.au

15

Health

Join Popeye & Eat More

Spinach!

Popeye’s spinach eating prowess

But, is there any medical evidence

Dr Jolieke van der Pols from QIMR says

has been triumphed in a study on

that eating spinach recharges

green leafy vegetables contain a

the health benefits of spinach by

Popeye the Sailor Man’s superhuman

variety of vitamins, minerals and other

Queensland Institute of Medical

strength, and makes him the man

bioactive substances that are known

Research (QIMR). This study indicates

Olive Oyl loves?

to have anti-cancer properties.

vegetables such as spinach and

Spinach is one of many vegetables

“Green leafy vegetables are good

silverbeet is linked with a reduction

that kids hate to eat. If they see a

sources of folic acid, vitamins A, C

in the risk of skin cancer, particularly

cartoon character, like Popeye,

and E, the carotenoids lutein and

among those with a previous history

eating it and becoming super strong,

zeaxanthin, and other components

of the disease.

then it has a whole new appeal.

which may help boost the skin’s

Spinach is one of the healthiest foods

natural defence against damage

Since the Popeye comic strip was

to eat, but there are vegetables

caused by UV rays,” Dr van der Pols

first published in 1919, Popeye has

that are just as nutritious for example

said.

publicly consumed copious amounts

broccoli.

that consumption of green leafy

of spinach whilst saying “I yam what I yam, and that’s all that I yam!”

“This new evidence suggests that Spinach is high in calcium, folic acid,

an increase in consumption of these

potassium, iron, magnesium, vitamins

foods may help to reduce the risk of

Popeye has appeared in comic

C and A, lutein, and zeaxanthin.

skin cancer recurring among those

books, television cartoons, video

These ingredients promote bone, eye,

with a previous history by up to 55

games, hundreds of advertisements

and neural tube health, and may

percent.”

and peripheral products, and a

help the production of red blood

1980 movie starring Robin Williams as

cells, steady our heartbeat and blood

These findings provide a timely

Popeye.

pressure. It is certainly a food that can

reminder that diet may be very

make kids strong.

important in preventing skin cancer.

He inspired generations of kids to eat

Whilst consuming more green leafy

their spinach and boosted spinach

The QIMR research reports that the

vegetables may help protect against

sales, resulting in the creation of his

benefits of eating spinach may be

skin cancer, QIMR maintains that

very own brand of canned spinach,

much greater than Popeye would

wearing protective clothing, applying

and statues erected in his honour.

have ever imagined. Eating more

sunscreen daily and avoiding

spinach and other green leafy

excessive UV exposure is still the best

vegetables may help protect against

way to avoid skin cancer.

skin cancer.

16 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

Health

Checklist to Encourage Kids to Eat More Spinach Parents need to set a good example & include spinach in their diet

Dr Jolieke van der Pols research can be found www.qimr.edu.au/research

Don’t mix spinach with other vegetables Think about colour, smell & texture & serve with cheese, butter or croutons Offer dips or dressings for spinach as a side dish

Andrew Vanderbilt QIMR Media Relations Officer P: (07) 3362 0292

Keep the serving to about half a cup

F: (07) 3362 0102

Add spinach to favourite foods

E: Andrew.Vanderbilt@qimr.edu.au

Arrange spinach as a tree, ball, or face to get kids to eat it Grow spinach in a pot plant & encourage kids to care & harvest Involve kids in cooking spinach Persevere as it takes up to 12 times for kids to acquire a taste for new foods

Karrawong Kindy 0-3 years T: 02 4953 1860

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www.getaheadkids.com.au

17

Kids & Vitamin D Deficiency Vitamin D is known as the sunshine

Mothers who are breast feeding

Children with vitamin D deficient

vitamin. Exposure to ultraviolet

and diagnosed with vitamin D

rickets have several Autistic markers

light stimulates the production of

deficiency need to stop breast

that apparently disappear with

this vitamin and hormone. Many

feeding as young babies develop

high-dose vitamin D treatment.

people get their entire supply of

deficiency through their mother’s

Autism is more common in low sun

vitamin D from sunlight. Vitamin D is

milk. Infants are usually treated with

areas such as high altitude regions,

well known to play an essential role

an oral supplement.

urban, highly polluted and high rain

in cell growth, boosting the immune system and strengthening bones.

Vitamin D also helps to prevent cancers, heart disease, diabetes and tuberculosis.

Diagnosis for Vitamin D deficiency is usually made by undertaking a blood test and once it is detected, it can be treated with calciferol supplements. These supplements

Very few foods in nature contain

need to be prescribed by a doctor

vitamin D. The flesh of fish and

and progress carefully monitored.

fish liver oils are among the best sources. Small amounts of vitamin D are found in beef liver, cheese and egg yolks.

Children and individuals who often stay out of the sunlight are at a high risk of developing vitamin D deficiency. It is also common among pregnant and breast feeding women and vitamin supplements are a common solution.

Vitamin D helps in the development of normal teeth. In deficiency of Vitamin D, teeth formation becomes defective and leads to the development of tooth decay.

The increased prevalence of Autism over the last 20 years corresponds with increasing medical advice to avoid the sun. This has probably lowered vitamin D levels in developing brains. Consumption of vitamin D containing fish during pregnancy reduces Autistic symptoms in offspring.

18 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

areas. Autism is more common in dark-skinned persons.

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University reported what is believed to be the most conclusive evidence to date that inadequate levels of vitamin D, obtained from milk, fortified cereals and exposure to sunlight, lead to substantially increased risk of death.

The Archives of Internal Medicine online 11 Aug. 2008 stated that the Johns Hopkins team analysed a diverse sample of 13,000 initially healthy men and women participating in long term national health survey that compared the risk of death between those with the lowest blood levels of vitamin D to those with higher amounts.

Health

Treatment

Of the 1,800 study participants

Dr Robert Schroth from the

known to have died by 31 Dec.

University of Manitoba researched

2000, nearly 700 died from some

Early Childhood Caries (ECC)

form of heart disease, with 400 of

and the role that nutrition and

them being deficient in vitamin D.

prenatal factors have on infant and

Vitamin D supplements

This translates overall to an

preschool oral health. He reported

Cod liver oil

estimated 26% increased risk of any

that mothers of children who

death. But, the number of deaths

developed cavities at an early age

from heart disease alone were not

had significantly lower vitamin D

large enough to meet scientific

levels during pregnancy than those

criteria to resolve that it was due to

Pregnant & breast feeding

whose children were cavity free.

women

low vitamin D levels.

Dr Erin Donnelly Michos, an assistant professor at the Johns Hopkins

Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency in Kids

High-calcium, high-phosphorous diet

People at Risk of Vitamin D Deficiency

Breastfed infants Individuals who get minimal exposure to sun light

Deformed skulls

Dark-skinned people in low

its Heart and Vascular Institute,

Late-closing fontanelles

sunlight countries

recommends that people boost

(soft spot)

Individuals with Crohn’s disease,

their vitamin D levels by eating diets

Rib-breastbone joint enlargement

celiac disease, kidney or liver

rich in such fish as sardines and

Delayed sitting

disease.

Delayed crawling

Housebound elderly & sick

Delayed walking

Individuals with limited sunlight

University School of Medicine and

mackerel, consuming fortified dairy products, taking cod liver oil and vitamin supplements and in warmer weather briefly exposing skin to the

Fatigue

sun’s vitamin D producing ultraviolet

Muscle pain & aches

light.

exposure Individuals with musculoskeletal pain Overweight or obese individuals For an interview with Dr Robert Schroth on Early Childhood Caries visit www.cda-adc.ca

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19

Green Issues

Contaminated Wastelands Can Be

Saved

Newcastle University academic,

Innova Soil Technology has

The advantages of this process

Dr John Lucas heads Innova Soil

welcomed the close scrutiny of the

include:

Technology Ltd that has developed

EPA and we are confident we have

a new Thermal Desorption Process

demonstrated the effectiveness of

to allow safe on-site treatment of

the technology and its potential

contaminated soils. This unique

benefits”.

technology can be used to clean contaminated manufacturing and petroleum sites.

The Thermal Desorption Process cleans the soil of hydrocarbon contaminants by heating the soil in

Because of its industrial background,

a rotary dryer to almost 500 degrees

the Hunter region has extensive

until the contaminants are vaporised

tracks of contaminated land. In

and reduced to an “undetectable”

many cases, this land is situated

level.

beside major waterways and around major ports. Innova located its first processing plant on the former BHP steelworks site. This plant, which can treat 40 tonnes of contaminated soil per hour, passed all independent tests.

Mr Bruce Dawson, EPA executive director regional services said that on-site soil treatment results in less contaminated soil to landfill.

He said independent monitoring conducted throughout the three

Thermal Desorption Process consists of plant that is mobile and suitable for treatment of all organic based contaminants. This process is energy

• The rapid gas quench eliminates any potential for dioxin formation, and emissions meet world’s best standards.

• It neutralises acid gases encountered, while treating contaminated soil significantly reduces acid gas emissions.

• The process recycles waste heat energy further reducing energy use and operating costs while improving reliability & reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

• This system is flexible and can

efficient, has low operating costs

also be modified to particular soil

and leads to a permanent solution.

characteristics.

Several measures have been

Dr John Lucas

employed to ensure that all EPA stack gas and particulate emission

John is the associate professor

standards are not only met but

in the Department of Chemical

are in fact considered world’s best

Engineering, University of Newcastle

practice.

and managing director of Innova Soil Technology.

month remediation process verified

The Thermal Desorption process

the removal of contaminants while

facilitates onsite treatment of

In 1985 - Dr John Lucas won The

conforming to all emission limits.

contaminants at the source and is

Institution of Engineers, Australia

suitable for treatment of all organic

Award - University of Newcastle

based contaminants including:

made annually to the final year

Dr John Lucas, Managing Director Innova Soil Technology Ltd states:

student who completes the • Petrols & oils, coal tars & creosote

Bachelor of Engineering degree with

perspective, it was essential to

• Pesticides & herbicides

First Class Honours at the University of

develop a process to treat the

• Transformer fluids

Newcastle.

contaminated land while at the

• Explosives

P: 02 4968 6770

“From a social and environmental

same time ensuring no negative impacts on air and water systems.

20 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

E: john.lucas@innovasoil.com.au www.innovasoil.com.au

People in Focus

Justin Bergholcs

Justin is a Novocastrian who has lived and worked in Bhutan, India, Tibet and Nepal regions since 1996.

His life changed in 1996 when he was asked to help with His Holiness the Dalai Lama during his Sydney visit. At a press conference, His Holiness was asked; “What is the meaning of life?”. He replied “The meaning of life is to be happy and

Justin Bergholcs (right) with his adopted son, Dawa Gyalpo Sherpa.

useful... happiness and usefulness is the meaning of life”.

You can search for a bargain in one

Dawa and Justin have commenced

Justin took up this challenge and

of the many curio shops. Take in the

a journey to build a school and

with Dawa Gyalpo Sherpa, his

sights and sounds. Interact with the

shelter for the less fortunate children

adopted son, they formed the

locals. Learn how to cook Tibetan

of the Darjeeling Region to give these

Blue Dragon Enterprises that offers

and Nepalie food. Visit a Tibetan

children an opportunity to better their

guided tours of the Himalayan

doctor. Experience an aryuvedic

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regions. These are non-trekking

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year the monks of Thupten Sange

encounters. Participants can explore

Choeling Monastery perform

Buddhist gonpas (temples), visit a

chaam, a sacred dance that

tea plantation or just amble around

signifies the illusory nature of life.

more challenging walks.

M: 0412 848 000 E: justin@bluedragon.com.au www.bluedragon.com.au

the market.

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www.getaheadkids.com.au

21

Sport & Recreation

Thrilling Quad Bikes Quad biking can be great fun for

Before you jump in and invest in

If the Quads are not controlled

sport, pleasure or riding over difficult

quad bikes, please ensure you and

going uphill or downhill, you can find

environments such as deserts,

your family really want it as it is a

yourself underneath the bike. Turning

beaches, mountains and forests.

costly investment. Quad bike riding is

and cornering techniques are also

more enduring if it is a family sport.

different and need to be mastered.

machines that need to be handled

You need to clean and service your

Before you buy a Quad bike for your

with proper care and attention.

quad bike in the same way as four

children it is wise to instruct them first

wheel drive that goes over similar

and build up their confidence. Get

terrain.

tuition from a qualified instructor, or

But, Quad bikes are powerful

Introduced in the United States in the early 1960s, the Quad Bike has

an experienced rider.

become a recreational vehicle used

Furthermore you need to take

in countless races and tournaments.

instruction and be knowledgeable

You and your children need to know

in driving it. Similar to a motorcycle

all the safety measures and the way

it has more wheels and may require

to treat other Quad bike drivers. This

additional adjustments on the part

will increase your enjoyment, avoid

of the driver.

accidents and harm to yourself and

In Australia quad bikes have a dedicated magazine “Australian ATV Action�.

Quad bikes handle differently from motorbikes and can overturn easily.

22 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

others.

Sport & Recreation Checklist for Enjoying Quad Bikes Know the rules of driving Quad bikes Always wear proper protective clothing Rally & sport riders must wear body armour Always take a change of clothing Always wear a crash helmet Do not carry passengers as it unbalances the bike making it

Always get permission from the land owners or rangers before driving your quad bike It is illegal to ride quad bikes in parks Juniors under the age of eighteen need parental supervision Drive at an appropriate speed for terrain Insure your vehicle by using a specialist insurer Enquiries

difficult to control

Paul Nixon

Many quad bikes are not made

ATV Action Editor

to be driven on normal road

“Australian ATV Action” E: paul@allwaysstainless.com.au www.allwaysstainless.com.au

OPEN MORNING 27 MARCH 9am-12.30pm Visit Hunter Valley Grammar School on our Open Morning and experience for yourself the right learning environment.

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Applications close 9 April.

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www.getaheadkids.com.au

23

Sport & Recreation

Buying Quad Gear For

Kids

Paul Nixon

Celebrity dad and dune ace Paul Nixon knows all about buying riding gear for kids, so we asked him to share some of that information. Read this and you can say you know everything about it.

So the small one who controls your life has talked you into buying him a quad bike and as a model parent

Checklist for Must Have Quad Bike Gear

Goggles: A good investment to keep the muck out of their eyes, especially if they’re following

you’re on your way to satisfying

Helmet: Do not let your child ride

dad around in circles. Make

his wish, secretly believing that if

without one. When shopping for

sure goggles fit inside the helmet

the little one has one then you too

a helmet the first thing to look for

‘port’ and are a good fit for the

are on your way to a new quad (it

is an Australian Standard sticker.

face. If you’re riding in high glare

works, believe me!)

It’s usually on the back of the

situation, on dunes for example,

helmet and has ‘AS1698’ written

look for a set for which tinted

on it. This is very important as it

lenses are available.

certifies that the helmet meets

RRP: $30 - $50.

You’ve already gone through the process of picking the right quad to suit the child, but there’s something else that you need to do before going home with a new bike and that’s getting the riding gear

all required Australian safety and performance standards.

RRP: $99 - $220.

Body Armour: Another must have.

Any pressure on the chest or back from a fall will spread across the

organised. You’re not going to be

How Heavy: Weight is a big factor

armor. This is excellent protection

very popular turning up with the bike

in a child’s helmet - the lighter the

from rocks or sticks that may be

and saying that they can’t ride it

better. Most helmet manufacturers

thrown up. The other reason for

until they have their safety gear.

do not recommend putting a

buying armour is that you can’t

helmet on a child under three

wear a protective neck roll or

and a half years of age because

collar without it. RRP: $90 to $170.

Buying the right gear for your child is an absolute must do.

their spinal chords are still too soft

Your child’s safety is priority. If he’s

to support the extra weight. For

taught from the beginning that

a child under three and a half, a

he (or of course, she) does not

good pushie helmet is the way to

ride without the correct gear, it’ll

go.

become second nature for them to do the right thing, relieving you of the fear that your “Precious Little One” might be riding minus a helmet.

Neck Roll Or Collar: These inventions have only been around for a few years but are one of the best safety ideas I’ve seen.

They’re worn around the neck

Feels Comfy: Do not buy a helmet

to stop the helmet going too far

for your children to grow into. Fit

forward or back, or to the side.

is very important for their safety.

This is fantastic in minimising neck

Fitting a helmet to a child is

injuries. They need to be attached

always hard because they usually

to the body armor. RRP: $55 - $60.

With budget being the largest factor

can’t tell you what the fit is like. I

in the gear you buy, we’ve put a

find the easiest way is to put the

list together with two headings,

helmet on them and then slip

Must Have and Good To Have. The

two fingers between their upper

retail pricing below is based on

cheek and the helmet. Tight is

equipment needed for a 4 - 7 year

good. Can’t get your fingers in,

old.

then go up a size.

Gloves: Okay, so why are they a must? Your child hasn’t done 10 years of manual labor to toughen up his hands. Well, I hope not anyway. You want his riding experience to be an enjoyable one and it’s not going to be that way if he develops blisters 10

24 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

Sport & Recreation minutes into the ride. This will also

Ride Jersey: This is another good

Gear Bag: Just to top it off. You

make your riding days very short!

addition. It is light, tough and

have the gear, so why not keep

Gloves also protect little hands

well ventilated. Your child’s body

it all in one place. Gear bags are

from rock and stick abrasions.

armor will also fit under them

available from a simple single

RRP: Retail $30 - $50

if they like to wear it that way.

compartment all the way to the

Slightly larger is good.

top of the line with separate boot,

RRP: $40 - $60.

helmet, dirty ride gear, goggle

That pretty much covers the ‘must have’ safety gear. If you’re not going for anything in the next

Kidney Belt: Good to stop lower

section, make sure your child

back pains. They become a must

wears a long sleeve shirt, long

as the child starts to ride harder

pants and good ankle-high foot

and faster. Most kidney belts have

wear.

good adjustability. Pick one kids

Good to Have Quad Bike Gear Checklist

feels comfortable in.

RRP: $30 - $50.

Knee and Elbow Guards: This is

Boots: Good boots are fantastic.

good protection if your child is

They brace to ankle and protect

riding in jeans and a long sleeve

the shin as well as stiffening the

shirt. They also add to protection

lower leg. A size up is not a bad

offered by good ride gear.

thing to buy when the kids are

RRP: $55 - $65.

young and growing fast. ‘Too big

and clean gear compartments that are water proof. They also have pull-out change mats and wheels to drag them around with.. What more could you ask for? RRP: $79 - $400 All of the riding gear we’ve listed could also be bought second hand. The only thing we would recommend is that you buy a helmet new. You never know how a second hand helmet has been treated. (And there might be a head in it).

Goggle Bag or Case: Want

When buying gear, remember

to keep your goggles in prime

that a child’s safety is a parent’s

condition and house your spare

responsibility. Expecting your child

Boot Socks: Got the boots, need

goggles or lenses? Then you need

to wear their protective gear,

the socks! They’re longer and

one of these. Available as a single

then jumping on your own bike

thicker than sports socks to take

soft case or able to hold up to 6

without your helmet sets a poor

the abuse a boot will give them.

sets of goggles, lenses etc, in a

example and is not a good look!

Being longer they also prevent

semi-hard case. (Dads will fit too!).

the leg chafing at the boot top.

RRP: About $50.

dad’ is nothing an extra pair of socks won’t fix. RRP: $140 - $400.

RRP: $20 - $25.

Paul Nixon is ATV Action Editor “Australian ATV Action” Also MD Allways Stainless Pty Ltd

Ride Pants: Aside from the bling

E: paul@allwaysstainless.com.au

factor, they have padding in

www.allwaysstainless.com.au

all the right spots - bum, knee and hip, as well as inner leg wear pads. The legs are short as well so they don’t go too far into your boots and become uncomfortable. They’re also made out of fairly tough material to take a beating when Precious Thing hits the deck, and easily washed, which makes mum happy. All of the top of the line pants have in-built ventilation to stop kids from cooking on hot days. As for size, a bit larger doesn’t hurt since they all have adjustable waists.

RRP: $110 - $200.

www.getaheadkids.com.au

25

Business

In Search of a Better

Family Life

Being there for your kids is a priority

In your search for the best home

In the last decade the number of

for every parent. At the same time

business for you, you may encounter

businesses operating from home has

there is an economic imperative for

“get rich quick” schemes and

increased as a result of:

both parents to work. So, could a

work from home scams. No matter

home based business be the answer

what you are promised, there is no

for one or both parents?

formula for overnight success in

2. Outsourcing

business.

3. The trend towards

A home based business could

1. The digital revolution

self-employment

mean a better lifestyle, more

For a home business or any business

time with your family, personal

to grow it needs personal focus and

satisfaction, financial rewards and

commitment. When the going gets

independence. But finding the best

tough, focus on your priorities and

family business may present many

honour your obligation to build an

challenges.

ongoing concern.

A home-based business is a business

The most successful businesses are

representing 63.8% of NSW small

you operate at or from your home,

operated by owners who love what

businesses.

instead of a commercial

they do and focus on providing

premises. To qualify as a home

customer benefits rather than the

business, all the operations may be

financial rewards.

4. Growth of services businesses 5. Trend towards two parent employment In June 2004, there were 282,400 home-based businesses in NSW,

from the home or the business may be administered from the home.

Before you start a home based business, you ask yourself and write down the answers to the following questions:

NSW Home-based Business Statistics

Numbers in thousands

Nov 1999

June 2001

June 2003

June 2004

Total home-based small business

196.6

254.4

249.4

282.4

Mainly male operators

123.3

151.9

154.8

189

1. What am I good at?

Mainly female operators

30.1

47.6

45.7

45.6

2. What are my weaknesses?

Equal male & female operators

43.2

54.9

48.8

47.9

3. What am I prepared to commit in time & effort?

4. What am I prepared to invest financially?

5. What quantifiable & lifestyle outcomes do I want?

Home Based Businesses in NSW 300 250 200 150 100 50 0

Nov 1999

June 2001

Total home-based small business Mainly male operators

June 2003

Mainly female operators Equal male & female operators

Source: ABS, “June, 2004 Characteristics of Small Business”.

26 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

June 2004

Business Home Business Models

The benefits of owning a franchised

7. Medical claims billing

home business include:

8. Accounting

1. Backing of a proven company

9. Web design

2. Access to proven systems

10. Desktop publishing

business model that uses direct

3. Market proven products & services

11. Photography

selling and relationship referrals

4. Well developed marketing systems

12. Home inspection

for the distribution of products or

5. Exclusive right over a territory

13. Remodeling

services.

6. Minimal administration & operating 14. Interior design

1. Network Marketing This is also known as Multi-Level Marketing (MLM). It is a legitimate

Before you embark on this type

costs

15. Catering or personal chef

of business, please research the

7. Group buying rates

16. Gift baskets

following:

8. Back up support in case of an

17. Wedding planner

1. How reputable is the company?

2. How valuable are its products or services?

3. Do you have access to the target market for these?

4. How is the training delivered?

5. How often are the training materials updated?

6. Is there support in the organisation?

7. Is there a local support group?

Benefits may include: 1. The training in business management is invaluable especially for novices 2. The personal development you can gain can be very rewarding 3. Products & services are market proven 4. You may not need to hold stock 5. The support & motivation provided by network colleagues can be important 6. Online or offline marketing systems are market proven 7. Online or offline operations systems are well developed 2. Franchised Home Business There are about 110 home based

emergency

19. Concierge

Australian home based franchises

20. Custom jewellery creation

include:

21. Computer repair

• Good Sports Home Services’ • Grip Guard • Busby Web Solutions • Arrive on Time Appliance Repairs • Electrodry • Easy Payment Options • Snap-on Tools (Australia) • Hire A Box • Altura Espresso Vending • Aussie Pooch Mobile Dog Wash • Rent the Roo • RP Vending Systems (Business Opportunity) • B & S Mobile Sharpening 3. Starting a New Business from Scratch There are numerous pros and cons for doing this. An interesting list of the Top 25 business opportunities has been documented by www.allbusiness.com These are in no particular order of importance.

1. Personal trainer 2. Yoga instructor

business franchise opportunities in

3. Tutoring

Australia. A successful franchise

4. Business coaching

model needs to offers franchise

5. Consulting

holders scope for growth.

18. Personal shopper

9. Training & support

22. Cleaning service 23. Carpet cleaning service 24. A riding school 25. Child-care services For more information: www.homebasedbusiness.sbdc.com.au www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au www.business.gov.au

EU R FIR YO BOSS • Gain Financial Freedom • Work Your Own Hours • Improve Your Lifestyle • Nurture Your Growing Family

ARE YOU READY FOR A CHANGE? Phone 044 888 3838 Now! aprec8@unifiedwealthsolutions.com

6. Medical & legal transcription

www.getaheadkids.com.au

27

Activity Zone

Colour In

Isandra Ice Queen

28 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

Activity Zone

All About Sports Crossword

2.

1.

3.

4.

Are you a sports nut? Use the clues to help you solve the puzzle. Happy puzzling!

5.

6.

7.

ACROSS 3. You may be ‘out for a ____’ in

8.

9.

10.

the game of cricket. (4) 4. This game has 11 players who

11.

12.

13.

kick a ball. (6) 6. This is the name given to all track and field events. (9)

14.

15.

16.

10. You use a stick with a curve

17.

on the end to play this very

18.

19.

fast-paced sport. (6) 11. This type of tackle is dangerous and illegal in

20.

rugby league. (5) 14. This is a game played on a

21.

court divided into thirds. (7) 15. An event where several countries compete in many sports. (8) 19. You run around this in softball or baseball. (7) 20. Many sports are played on one of these. (5) 21. This sporting event involves using different strokes such as freestyle and butterfly. (8) DOWN 1. This is a very long run over fairly rough terrain. (12) 2. You can score ______ in soccer. (5) 3. Basketballers and babies do this. (7)

5. You need one of these to play most sports. (4) 7. This game is played on a table. (11)

17. You can score one of these in softball or baseball. (7) 18. What a ‘racquet’ this sport makes. (6)

8. You should apply this to avoid getting burnt when playing outdoor sport. (8) 9. This implement looks like a very heavy frisbee and is thrown for distance in athletics. (6) 12. You can score ______ in cricket. (4) 13. In this sport, you serve, volley or spike the ball over a net.

(10) 16. This race is run on the last day of the Olympics. (8)

For all the crossword answers visit www.getaheadkids.com.au

www.getaheadkids.com.au

29

SUBSCRIBE Receive a Hunter Food & Wine Book Free

Read With Me Kits “My Body” Storybook Kit

RRP $55.00 It’s easy to order!

Go to our website www.getaheadkids.com.au or Complete the form below and attach payment (if applicable) and post to Get Ahead Kids, Villa Franca, 2 Scott Street, Newcastle NSW 2300 of fax to (02) 4929 7827.

Yes, please register or renew my subscription of Get Ahead Kids starting with the NEXT AVAILABLE ISSUE: Me

Gift

RATE 1 yr - 6 Issues:

$27.00

2 yrs - 12 issues:

$47.00

MY DETAILS Mrs/Ms/Miss/Mr (Name) Address

State Phone ( Fax (

Post Code )

)

Read With Me has packaged an exciting and unique range of children’s storybooks. “My Body” kit brings together the key elements of fun and

Email AND/OR SEND A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION TO: Mrs/Ms/Miss/Mr (Name) Address

State

learning to teach 0-2 year olds about their body. The Kit is an interactive way for parents and children to enjoy reading stories and improve literacy skills.

The presentation is stunning, making it a memorable educational gift for

Post Code

PAYMENT DETAILS Cheque/Money Order Please make cheque payable to MAP Marketing. Send to: MAP Marketing, Villa Franca, 2 Scott St, Newcastle NSW 2300 Direct Deposit Please use name/company as reference.

Account Name: MAP Marketing BSB: 804050 Account Number: 101 20 992 Please photocopy coupon for additional gift subscriptions. Offer ends 30.4.09 Please tick if you do not wish to receive marketing offers from Get Ahead Kids and its sponsors.

30 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

toddlers. “My Body” kit is presented in a soft organza bags and includes: • Reading Tip Card • My Body flash card • Look and Learn Body • These Are My Feet • Eyes, Nose, Fingers and Toes Read With Me 21 Hayden Road Wamberal NSW 2260 M: 0406 535 862 E: sales@readwithme.com.au www.readwithme.com.au

Reviews

Tips

Reading 0-2 Year Olds

Recommended Films Exploring A Range of Learning Styles

Babies are never too young to enjoy

Always start from the front of

• Beautiful Mind (2001)

a story. Start with a few minutes, a

the book and stop when they

• Rain Man (1988)

couple of pages or a picture book.

lose interest. Don’t get

• Awakenings (1990)

Hold your baby on your lap or lay next to them holding the book above you both.

concerned if they don’t follow a full story at this stage. Remember though, the more fun you make

• Shine (1996( • Elephant Man (1980)

the story, the more interested they

• Mercury Rising (1998)

Pick a time in your babies day and

will be in listening.

• Charly (1968)

routine when they are alert and not

Use nursery rhymes and songs

hungry.

Enjoy reading with your baby. Make it a fun and memorable experience.

Experiment with different voices,

• Regarding Henry (1991)

during storytime. Add actions and

• The Wild Child (1970)

props. Ask your baby questions

• Forrest Gump (1994)

and answer them yourself. This will

• Kes (1969)

help your baby to identify with the

See www.imdb.com

be playful, be animated, create

different forms of language.

different voices for different

Repeat stories, rhymes and songs

characters.

for more details.

so your baby becomes familiar with

Expect babies to touch and

language use, sounds and patterns.

grab the book. As they grow and

The best opportunity we can give

become familiar with the story they will begin to attempt to turn the pages. These actions are part of the learning experience.

our children for the future is a memory of love and laughter whilst sharing books. www.readwithme.com.au

Judy’s system of integrating traditional speech therapy techniques with unique reading and spelling strategies has been helping children achieve their potential for over 15 years.

It is not uncommon for students to improve their reading age by 1½ - 2 years in one term. Even students with major learning issues will improve by 6 months in a two month term.

While there are many programs in operation throughout Australia, Judy’s integrated approach has consistently produced amazing results.

Providing effective programs for speech problems, reading & spelling difficulties in a fun & caring environment.

Th e

Judy A d Im r m s t ro n g M e t h o

u r C h i l d ’s R e a d i n g A g e o Y s e p ro v Judy is the developer of the world renowned DIPL. doorway into practical literacy

Judy Armstrong Speech Pathologist | 18 Toohey Crescent Adamstown Heights 2289 | Ph/Fax: (02) 4952 1539

www.getaheadkids.com.au

31

Reviews

The Down-to-Earth Guide to Global Warming

Harry & Hopper

Flight of the Bumblebee

Authors: Margaret Wild Illustrator: Freya Blackwood

Author: Hazel Edwards Illustrator: Mini Goss Narrator: Antonia Kidman

This book is more than a story about

A captivating story that is rich in

The producers of Al Gore’s

losing a puppy. It deals with how

action, music and colour.

documentary “An Inconvenient

young kids deal with grief, loss and how love triumphs above all. It also deals with the healing power of loving memories. The messages are complemented by the beguiling crayon illustrations.

When the puppy came to live with Harry and his dad, he was as jumpy as a grasshopper. So that’s what Harry called him, “Hopper”.

The educational messages of the importance of focus, training and practice are subtly woven in the

Authors: Laurie David &

Cambria Gordon

Truth” have written a book for children. Hence it is biased 100% towards global warming.

story that resonates the music of the

This book is simple enough to read

same title.

to a five year old, yet sophisticated

The audio CD is narrated by Antonia Kidman and accompanied with the

for primary school and early high school.

music of Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov in

This book is based on the premise

the background.

Green Kids can make a difference!

Harry and Hopper do everything

In the first book in the Music Box

together. Hopper helps Harry with his

Series, Bumble has no sense of

homework and Harry helps Hopper

direction. How is he going to learn to

escape from his weekly bath. At

fly without bumping into branches?

night, Hopper sneaks in to sleep in

“Green’’ is defined as all initiatives to protect and preserve the well being of people and the planet. As it is co-written by an advertising copywriter, it is simple and interesting

Take the journey with Bumble as he

to read. The recaps are in highlights

finds his wings by attending Flying

that make an excellent revision!

One day, Harry comes home from

School, practising and using the

Illustrated with photos, drawings,

school and his dog isn’t there to

music as a flight plan to visit the

diagrams and cartoons.

greet him because he has been in

flowers.

Harry’s bed.

an accident.

The mainly gold, black and blue Ages: 4 years+

illustrations flood the senses with

Extent: 32 pages (Hardback)

beauty and fun.

ISBN: 978-1-86291-740-8 Release Date: February 2009

Age Guide: 6-10 years

Price: AUD$24.99

Extent: 32 pages

Publisher: Omnibus Books for

(Hardback + CD-ROM)

Scholastic Australia

ISBN: 978-1-921042-03-4

www.scholastic.com.au

Release Date: February 2009 Price: AUD$27.95 Publisher: New Frontier Publishing P: 02 9453 1525 www.newfrontier.com.au

32 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

The book covers four major areas: 1. What is Global Warming?

2. Wacky Weather Explained!

3. Why Extinction Stinks!

4. How YOU Can Change the World!

Ages: 9-12 years Extent: 112 pages (Paperback) ISBN: 978-1-74169-124-5 Price: AUD$15.99 Publisher: Scholastic Australia www.scholastic.com.au

Reviews

Our Pick

Ice Quest - The Race to Save the Planet

Mega Aircraft

The Ice-Cream Man

Author: Christiane Gunzi

Author: Jenny Mounfield Illustrator: Grant Gittus

Graphics

A beautifully illustrated book, with

This book contains a visual feast

One harmless little prank will change

fascinating mythical characters

of photos and brief descriptions

their lives forever… This thrilling, well

that is a compelling read for any

of a variety of aircrafts including

developed tale will send shivers

family interested in global warming.

Light Aircraft, Passenger Planes,

down your spine. When Marty, Rick

Isandra, the Ice Queen, lives in a

Transporters, Fast Jets, Helicopters,

and Aaron have a run-in with the

beautiful Ice Palace with her loyal

Supersonic and Fire Fighters.

local ice-cream man, they decide

Author: Nora Jones Illustrator: Cath Chegwidden

Snowflakes. When She is kidnapped

by Serena, the Sun Goddess, the Earth’s atmosphere goes into turmoil. Isandra must be returned to the Ice Palace so that the world’s weather can be returned to a stable, sustainable state. Join Thor, the God of Thunder, his trusty Thunderbolts and the Snowflakes on this magical quest to save the planet.

Age Guide: 4-8 years Extent: 28 pages (Paperback) ISBN: 978-0-9775491-8-4 Price: AUD$14.95 Publisher: Little Steps Publishing www.littlesteps.com.au

Although this is a children’s book, it is high in educational content, interesting and concise in construction. Mega Aircraft is easy for busy parents to pick up and read a section - say on “airbus” and put down again. It is also the perfect book to take to the airport and point out to children the different aircraft.

to take revenge. Although it seemed like harmless fun at the time, the tables turn and the boys will quickly learn they are playing with fire from the evil ice-cream man.

Beware of the ice-cream man…

Age Guide: 10-12 years Extent: 187 pages (Paperback) ISBN: 978-1-876462-68-0

Age Guide: 6 years+

Release Date: April 2009

Extent: 32 pages (Paperback)

Price: AUD$16.95

ISBN: 978-1-74169-218-1

Publisher: Ford Street Publishing

Release Date: February 2009

P: (03) 9481 1120

Price: AUD$9.99

E: earthborn@smartchat.net.au

Publisher: Scholastic Australia

www.fordstreetpublishing.com

www.scholastic.com.au

Increase TEEN Self Esteem Improve family relationships Create friendships Increase confidence & self esteem Reduce fear & stress Develop skills for tests & exams

Age s 12-1

C day i l o ol H S c ho

Years 6-9

Weekend &

5

s ourse

www.freetobeme.com.au ftbm@africa900.com 02 4982 1840 www.getaheadkids.com.au

33

Index

Get Ahead Kids

Advertisers Index

2009

Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College

Feature Article Themes

5

Conveyancing Services

21

Doorway Into Practical Literacy

19

Back to School

Free To Be Me

33

Ad booking Deadline Dec 12 Editorial Deadline Dec 19

Get Ahead Learning

36

Hunter Valley Grammar School

23

January/February

March/April Languages

Ad booking Deadline Feb 20 Editorial Deadline Feb 27

May/June

Technology Ad booking Deadline Mar 30 Editorial Deadline Apr 6

Judy Armstrong Speech Pathologist 31 Karrawong Kindy

17

Metroll Pty Ltd (Newcastle)

2

Mine Subsidence Board

15

NCP Printing

5

Tocal College

13

Unified Wealth Solutions

27

For more advertising information contact: Maria Charlton MAP Marketing E: maria@mapmarketing.com.au P: 02 4929 7766 Media kit also available from www.getaheadkids.com.au

July/August

Education Week Ad booking Deadline Jun 1 Editorial Deadline Jun 8

September/October Exams

Ad booking Deadline Jul 27 Editorial Deadline Aug 3

FOR FAM ILIES ON THE GO

Vol. 1 • No. 3 • May /Jun 09

Next

Issue

November/December Summer Learning

Ad booking Deadline Sep 28 Editorial Deadline Oct 5

To contribute an article email maria@mapmarketing.com.au

Features: Technology Spotlight: Justin Norris Olympic & Commonwealth Medalist, owner of the award-winning Justin Norris Swim Academy

Next Issue Out May 2009 34 Get Ahead Kids Mar/Apr 09

Distribution The Junction

• Newcastle Region Art Gallery

• Jesmond Community Pre-School

• Epic Skate

• Newcastle Region Library

• Jesmond Early Education Centre

• Sandbar Surf

• Newcastle Skate

• Jumping Jacks Community

• The Junction Fruit Shop

• Pacific Dreams Surf

Market town • Centre management • Grower’s Best

• Selina’s Obsession Hair Beauty Nails • Shoal Bay Resort & Spa Port Stephens

Pre-School • Kindy Kapers • Kindy Patch • Kookaburra Korner • Lake Macquarie Educational

Hunter Street

• Stockland Shopping Centres

• Advanced Careers College

• Swimming Centres

• Larissa St OOSH

• Civic Arcade

• Symbion health King Street

• Little Legends Child Care Centre

• Live Site

• TAFE

• Maitland Baptist Church

Pre-School

• University

Pre-School & Long Day Care

The Hunter St Mall & Hunter St

• West Mall Plaza Rutherford

Centre

• Backpackers

• Westfield Kotara

• Bookshops • Hobbies Australia

Child Care & Educational Facilities

• IGA - Newcastle

• 5 Star Family Day Care

• Mark Richards Surf Shop

• Abermain Early Learning Centre

• Newcastle Train Station

• Adamstown Child Care Centre

• Newsagents

• Adamstown Heights Pre-School

• Restaurants & Cafés

• Adamstown Pre-School • Appletree Early Education &

Hamilton • Australian Government Education & Workplace

Pre-School • Bees Nees Early Learning • Belmont North Pre-School

• Local Video

• Birralee Longday Care Centre

• Princeton Medical Centre

• Boolaroo-Speers Point Community

• Street Beat Music Store Others • Ballet Schools • Cardio Vascular centre • Centrelink • Charlestown Square • Councils • DE Laird Dentist • Dive, Skate & Ski • Erina Fair Shopping centre • Estabar • Food Works • IGA • Independent Counselling Services • Inski • Internet Cafés • Islington Newsagency • John Miller Galleries • Libraries • Mayfield Ten Pin Bowling • McDonalds • New Zealand Ice Cream • Newcastle Family Sports & Podiatry

Kindergarten • Branxton Pre-School • Cameron Park • Charlestown Child Care & Early Learning Centre • Charlestown East Educational Pre-School • Chelmsford Drive Early Learning Centre • Cooks Hill Pre-School • Daffy-Down-Dilly Learning Centre • Elder St Early Learning Centre • Fairyland Pre-School • Felton St Early Learning Centre & Pre-School • Girrinbai Community Pre-School • Glendale Early Education Centre • Greta Community Pre-School

• Maitland Nursery School / Maitland Community Pre-School • Maryland Care & Early Childhood Education Centre • Maryland Drive Pre-School • Medowie Children’s Centre • Medowie Gumnut Pre-School • Merewether Henry St Community Pre-School • Metford Child Care Centre • Mother Goose Day Nursery • My Kindy • Narnia Christian Pre-School • Orana Community Pre-School • Peter Pan Kindergarten • Possum Place Child Care Centre • Rathmines Pre-School • Ruby’s Place • Rutherford Playtime Pre-School • Shamrock Hill Early Childhood Centre • Six hats • Tillys early learning • Toronto Community Centre • Wallalong Pre-School • Wallsend Community Pre-School • Weston Community Pre-School • Woodrising Community Pre-School To add your facility to this distribution list please contact:

• Hamilton Child Care Centre

Maria Charlton

• Heatherbrae Early Learning

MAP Marketing

Centre • Holmesville Playhouse Pre-School

E: maria@mapmarketing.com.au P: 02 4929 7766

• Hunter Early Learning & Nurture Centre Inc • Jacaranda Grove Pre-School

www.getaheadkids.com.au

35

Pre-school to Adult K to Adult Programs

Proven Results Programs are positive and skillsorientated to help each student succeed with confidence.

Accelerated and multi-sensory techniques are used to maximise student attention and motivation.

Professional Tutors The tutors are qualified and experienced in their chosen fields to help your child learn what is relevant and current - we follow the current NSW Curriculum guidelines.

English Years 7-12 All Levels Mathematics Years 7-12 Junior Science Years 7-10 Physics Biology Chemistry Languages History Business Studies Reading Programs Phonics Programs Selective High School Exams Scholarship Preparation University Entrance Workforce Exams Study Skills Essay Writing ADD, ADHD, LD special attention and support Holiday Lessons HSC Workshops Exam Supervision / Invigilation

Languages

Bilingual Dolls

You are never too old to learn a language for pleasure, business or travel.

Italian Japanese German Mandarin Spanish French Others on request 4 Years to Adults All Levels HSC Travellers Parent/Child Lessons Fun and Rewarding Gain a skill for life

This is a great way to teach your child (3yrs+) a second language using the comfort of a bilingual doll (40cm). With the press of a palm, the doll says an English word or phrase followed by the selected second language. The timing is perfect for saying out loud with your child both language versions.

A written translation booklet that helps your child become familiar with the written words accompanies each doll.

Order online at www.getaheadlearning.com.au

Personal Attention Every student gets ahead in learning from personalised tuition programs that are individualised.

AWARD WINNING School Readiness Designed to assist Preschool children make the best transition from Preschool to Kindergarten, Mrs Penn’s School Readiness programs are based on proven educational research and support current NSW Kindergarten curriculum.

With Mrs Penn’s School Readiness Tuition you give your child the best start in: Reading Writing Concentration Confidence Science Phonics Literature Appreciation Mathematics

Enrol now for 2009 Have you noticed your child...

Winner Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards 2008

Has trouble expressing their needs and thoughts?

Is not speaking like other children of the same age?

Does not appear to listen carefully?

Is struggling to keep up with literacy skills at school?

Uses different sounds in place of the correct ones?

Has not yet developed appropriate social skills?

Stumbles or repeats sounds in words?

Get Ahead Speech Therapy can help you in many ways: Speech Sounds Language Social Skills Phonological Awareness Literacy Comprehension Oral Muscle Exercises Research shows that early intervention is the key to success.

Contact us today to arrange a visit with a friendly and experienced speech therapist at one of our well-resourced clinics.

Readiness Activities aims to prepare your child for more formal school learning. Designed to cater for the individual needs of the child, lessons are structured to include 1-2 students per session.

Little Achievers™ Program is for children (generally from 4-5 years old) who have advanced literacy and numeracy skills. Gifted and talented children are catered for with innovative personal interest programs.

Health Care Rebates No referral necessary and no wait list Part of a multidisciplinary team participating in the Medicare Allied Health Initiative Formal Assessments with report at no extra cost Individual or group therapy School visits for assessment or therapy Community visits

FREE INFO PACK PHONE TODAY 1300 657 220 enquiries@getaheadlearning.com.au | www.getaheadlearning.com.au Charlestown Centre - 53 Dickinson Street - Opposite Council Pool | Eleebana Centre | East Maitland Centre - Suite 18C, 121 Lawes Street