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
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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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Maximum 100
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Teaching Power
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The 31 tracks in the Rocket French
For more Information: www.rocketlanguages.com
*www.frenchcoursereviews.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
Safe & Friendly Social Interaction Colourful & Well Equipped
11 Withers Street West Wallsend NSW 2286 Karrawong Kindy 3-6 years T: 02 4953 1865
Variety of Learning Activities
75 Carrington Street West Wallsend NSW 2286
Experienced & Qualified Staff
F: 02 4953 1865 E: enquiry@karrawongkindy.com.au
Accredited with NCAC
www.karrawongkindy.com.au
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
but sketch has a “k”? Do y o u k n o w w h y s c ra p h a s a “ c ” DIPL does! Call us now! The DIPL program is a unique integrated Literacy program for the primary school years. It has been written for daily use in the classroom and meets the outcomes for the NSW English Syllabus and Quality Teaching pedagogy. DIPL is currently in over 100 schools across Australia and has now been taken up by schools in the United Kingdom and Middle East! DIPL develops children’s skills in listening, grammar, phonological awareness, spelling and reading in a fun, effective way. DIPL helps children spell well all of the time, not just in Friday’s spelling test! DIPL encourages active listening and critical reasoning skills & programming done for the teacher. DIPL has unique spelling rules.
Email or call us now dipl@dipl.com.au or 02 4957 8992 to request a FREE sample pack! www.dipl.com.au
www.getaheadkids.com.au
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
mind, body and spirit.
regions. These are non-trekking
massage.
journeys that range from easy to
Blue Dragon Enterprises is committed to
You get the opportunity to
equity; education and improving the
experience classic Tibetan culture,
lives of all people especially those of
The in built education and culture
up close and personal. Each
Himalayan region.
exchanges are exhilarating
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.
Land Rural
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MAITLAND 02 4934 1852
MOBILE OFFICE 0423 570 410
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.
Enquire about our academic, music and visual arts scholarships available for 2010. Applications close 9 April.
Classrooms from Preschool to Year 12 will be open for you to visit and staff will be on hand to help answer any questions you may have.
Norfolk Street Ashtonfield NSW 2323 P • 4934 2444 F • 4934 2404 E • registrar@hvgs.nsw.edu.au W • www.hvgs.nsw.edu.au
H U N T E R VA L L E Y G R A M M A R S C H O O L
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
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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
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MY DETAILS Mrs/Ms/Miss/Mr (Name) Address
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)
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