Get Ahead Kids Magazine Vol. 4. No. 6. Nov/Dec 2012

EDUCATING FAMILIES ON THE GO

Vol. 4 • No. 6 • Nov/Dec 2 012

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e n o t s g n i v i L e l Nico Summer Learning Special

November/December 2012 Subscription $6.60 AUD INC GST 06

Punished with Rewards A Guide to Safe Schoolies 2012 Missed Out on a University Place? Don’t Despair

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Nov/Dec 2012

Contents

This Month’s

F O R FA M I LI E S O N T HE G O

Spotlight

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Editorial

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Spotlight An Interview with Nicole Livingstone Giveaways

An Interview with Nicole Livingstone Cover Photo Marty Smith.

Get Ahead Kids® © MAP Marketing 2012 Publisher MAP Marketing ABN 38 003 493 007 Villa Franca, 2 Scott St. Newcastle NSW 2300 P: 02 4929 7766 www.getaheadkids.com.au Managing Editor Maria Charlton MAP Marketing ABN 38 003 493 007 Villa Franca, 2 Scott St. Newcastle NSW 2300 P: 02 4929 7766 maria@mapmarketing.com.au www.mapmarketing.com.au 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 P: 02 4929 7766 maria@mapmarketing.com.au www.mapmarketing.com.au 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.

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Taronga Zoo Family Pass Giveaway

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LeapsterGS Explorer™ Giveaway

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Nit Buster Product Packs Giveaway

29

Australian Reptile Park Family Pass Giveaway

30

The Wiggles Celebration Tickets Giveaway

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The Elf on the Shelf Gift Set Giveaway Reference

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Major NSW/ACT Boarding Schools’ Research Summer Learning

11

Are You Planning a Picture Book Over the Summer Break?

12

Do “The Terrible Twos” Really Exist?

14

Punished with Rewards

16

A Guide to Safe Schoolies 2012

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Missed Out on a University Place? Don’t Despair Health

20

Eating More Vegetables

22

Epilepsy News

24

Come Along & Be Inspired with the Special Olympics

25

Prominent Author Visits Hunter Valley Grammar School

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Newcastle Grammar School Students Triumph in Aerobics

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Angelina Ballerina Visits Baby Ballerinas & Co

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Reviews

32

Activity Zone Christmas Dot-to-Dot Super Santa Poem

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Advertisers Index

to Subscribe ids dK Get Ahea azine ag Digital M scriber ub to enter S away e Only Giv ge 5 Details Pa www.getaheadkids.com.au

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Editorial

This issue features former Australian Olympic Swimmer and current sports commentator Nicole Livingstone.

Her journey to success is relatable and inspiring.

The diversity of Summer Holiday articles are thought provoking, entertaining and informative. These include the danger of rewards for behaviour modification, the hidden traps of schoolies and what to do if your children miss out on a university placement.

k boo ! e c Fa away Give

The international medical charity, Medikidz provides informed advice on Epilepsy and how this illness can be treated and managed.

As this is the Festive holiday issue, we offer our readers a choice of 6 excellent giveaways. I wish all our readers a happy and safe holiday.

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

Dinosaurs to Stomp into Taronga Zoo A Brachiosaurus, Tyrannosaurus Rex and Australia’s own dinosaur, the Muttaburrasaurus are amongst some prehistoric new arrivals that will join the lions, giraffes and seals at Taronga Zoo from 2 November 2012.

The 16 life-size and life-like robotic dinosaurs are lumbering all the way from North America to Sydney for a new exhibition “Dinosaurs in the Wild”.

Zoo visitors should get set to get in touch with their innerpalaeontologist, be unafraid of large gnashing teeth, and be

prepared to get hit with dinosaur spittle and able to run very fast from the fearsome creatures which will be dotted throughout Taronga’s grounds.

An encounter with these moving, roaring dinosaurs is included in the standard entry ticket to Taronga and tells a very important story about how we humans can help prevent extinction of wonderful creatures today like the Tasmanian Devils and Sumatran Tigers.

More Information www.taronga.org.au

Like Get Ahead Kids on Facebook to Win! www.facebook.com/GetAheadKids With special thanks to Taronga Zoo, Get Ahead Kids has 5 family passes to Taronga Zoo to giveaway!

Each pass allows a family of 2 adults and 2 children (4-15 years, under 4 years free) a wildlife experience at either Taronga Zoo Sydney or Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Visit www.facebook.com/GetAheadKids and click the like button for a chance to win.

4 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

Su G bs ive c awribe ay r

r ribe ! c s Sub away Give

New LeapsterGS Explorer™

Giveaway!

The new LeapsterGS Explorer™ from LeapFrog is the ultimate learning game. Kids can bring the real world into play and put themselves right into the game with the built-in camera, video recorder, and microphone.

Each time a child finishes playing with their LeapsterGS, parents simply connect via USB to their computer to view details about the learning games played, skills engaged and progress made.

It is compatible to a library of hundreds of game cartridges and Apps (music, videos, eBooks and more) and delivers fast-action game play while building skills for success in school and life.

More Information

The LeapsterGS comes with free content including the new Escape of the Sillies game App, the popular Pet Pad writing App, and the choice of an additional App. You can buy an App Centre Downloadable Card for more awesome, fun Apps to try.

While children will love the actionpacked game play, parents will feel confident that their child is learning while doing something they love.

Parents can connect to the free online LeapFrog Learning Path to see what their child is playing and learning, and explore ways to expand their child’s learning journey.

www.leapfrog.com.au

With special thanks to LeapFrog, Get Ahead Kids has 1 LeapsterGS Explorer valued at approx $159.99 to giveaway!

Visit www.getaheadkids.com.au follow the subscribe link and sign up to the free digital magazine (must be subscribed by 10 December 2012 to be eligible).

Subscribers will receive a special link via email for entry to the giveaway.

MAITLAND CHRISTIAN

MAITLAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL SCHOOL Do all God’s glory Do all forforGod’s glory

Maitland Christian School, nestled away in the middle of Metford, is a great place to educate your children.

With 570 students from Kinder through to Year 12, at Maitland Christian School you won’t get lost in the crowd!

The school’s mission is to work in partnership with families and churches by offering a sound Christ-centred education which encourages the fullest possible development of the spiritual, academic, physical and social characteristics of each child.

www.maitlandcs.nsw.edu.au Ph: (02) 4933 7633

Maitland Christian School

75-81 Chelmsford Drive Metford NSW 2323

Fun Outdoor Soccer & Multi Sports Programs Kids 3-6 Years Old Taster Sessions Are Available For More Information Call

02 4951 8886

www.sportykids.net.au

www.getaheadkids.com.au

5

An Interview with

Nicole Livings tone

What are your career highlights and why?

Definitely my longevity, but if I had to name one race, then it would be the Olympics in 1992. I was 21 years old and at the absolute peak of my career. I swam a personal best and won an Olympic bronze in the 200m backstroke. This time stood as an Australian record for the next 16 years.

What is your advice for aspiring swimmers?

Love what you do, surround yourself with like-minded people that are supportive and positive. Don’t spend too much time with whinging or negative people, its contagious!

Why do you think it is important for kids to learn to swim?

Out of all the choices kids have to participate in sport, swimming must be one. It’s not about sport it’s about a life long survival skill; it may just save your child’s life if they ever find themselves in trouble.

6 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

Please tell us about your family.

I have 3 children, Ella and Josh who are 10 year old twins and Robinson who is 5 years old. I also have a wonderful husband Marty, with whom I am proud to be on this journey.

What are your hobbies?

Not a lot of time for hobbies! I like to go to the footy and watch Melbourne Storm (Rugby League) and I also watch a lot of baseball; my husband and all the kids play, I also played a couple of years ago and might return to it soon! I also like to stay fit, so I swim, run and go to the gym regularly. I think it is important for my kids to know that exercise is also a part of adult life.

What is your favourite holiday destination and why?

We go to Queensland a lot, but we are going overseas for the first time as a family to Fiji late this year.

I’m sure the kids are going to have a ball!

How did you first get involved in swimming?

We grew up near the beach and mum and dad wanted us to be able to swim to survive, it evolved from there. My older brother and sister did swim club and I tagged along.

When you were a competitive swimmer, what helped you stay focused and motivated?

Knowing that I was good at it, I am really lucky to have found what I am gifted at. Lots of people spend their lives searching for that one thing that they can excel in and I, thanks to my mum and dad found it! I knew my time was limited in swimming, I had a window of 12 years on the Australian Swimming team and I wanted to make sure I gave it everything I had.

Please tell us about your role at the London Olympic Games.

I was commentating for Olympic Broadcast Services, who are the International Olympic Committee’s broadcast partner. I got to commentate with Bruce McAvaney,

Spotlight out the bubbles (air) & take more in during their breath taking.

Kids & adults often hold onto their breath & keep adding more air in their lungs & that’s often why they feel puffed, or panic.

5. Practice technique in the mirror at home. Of course, I’m talking about the arm portion! Get them to look in the mirror & practice those nice straight arms that are going up & over, or if they are more advanced, then the bent elbow over arm & the nice straight backstroke arms! My coach used to encourage this even when I was at Olympic level!

6. NEVER take your eyes of your child around water, things happen quickly & they are often silent. Coffee or chatting can wait, accidents in water won’t.

which was a huge thrill. We had an overall focus, so not concentrating on the Aussie, we commentated on the great racing, and there was plenty of that!

Please tell us about your involvement with Ovarian Cancer Australia.

I am a co-founder of the organisation and now Patron. I wish I didn’t have to be involved, I wish Ovarian Cancer didn’t exist!

My mum and my Aunty both died from it and I have a gene that predisposes me to it. It affects around 2000 Australian women each year with 1200 new diagnoses and 800 women losing their battle, each and every year. There is no detection test, a pap smear doesn’t test for Ovarian Cancer, and so awareness is our best defense.

About Nicole Livingstone

What are your top tips to help get kids strong and confident in the water?

1. The more often your kids swim, the better they’ll get.

2. Make sure that they are in the right level at swimming lessons; ask for an assessment before you start.

3. Cap and goggles are a must, it keeps hair out of their eyes, water out of their ears & lets them see where they are going.

4. Encourage them to not hold on to their breath, they need to blow

Nicole began her swimming career at 14, and she will go down in history as one of Australia’s most successful female backstrokers.

With an international career spanning 12 years, Nicole’s achievements include a silver medal and 2 bronze medals from 3 Olympic appearances in addition to 6 gold, 2 silver and a bronze from 3 Commonwealth Games. Nicole has also competed in 6 Pan Pacific Championships, winning 4 gold, 2 silver and a bronze medal. She also

broke a world record in the 200m backstroke (short course) in 1992.

Nicole placed her name in the record books by starting the longest winning sequence of any Australian swimmer in history at the national titles winning ten consecutive 100m backstroke titles between 1987 and 1996.

Nicole has received numerous awards during her career outside of the pool including the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1997; the Australian Sports Medal in 2000 and in 2006 was inducted into the Victorian Women’s Honour Roll.

Nicole juggles many commitments, including being a mother of 3, an expert commentator and host on Channel Ten’s sports channel and also co-hosting Thursday Night Live.

Nicole helped found Ovarian Cancer Australia with her sister Karen Livingstone after their mother passed away from the illness. She is now the Patron of the organisation.

More Information www.elitesports.com.au/talent/ media/nicole-livingstone

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Putting service and the needs of PeoPle first. www.getaheadkids.com.au

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Reference

Major NSW/ACT Boarding Schools’ Research Abbotsleigh Senior School Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 170 Boarders / 4 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: June Brown - Registrar 1666 Pacific Hwy, Wahroonga NSW 2076 P: 02 9473 7777 | F: 02 9473 7680 registrar@abbotsleigh.nsw.edu.au www.abbotsleigh.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------All Saints’ College Primary & Secondary Co-education Max. 100 Boarders / 2 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Michael Hissey - Registrar 70 Eglinton Rd, Bathurst NSW 2795 P: 02 6331 3911 | F: 02 6332 2236 michael.hissey@saints.nsw.edu.au www.saints.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Ascham School Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 100 Boarders / 4 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 6 -12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Dea Richardson - Registrar 188 New South Head Rd, Edgecliff NSW 2027 P: 02 8356 7000 | F: 02 8356 7230 registrar@ascham.nsw.edu.au www.ascham.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Barker College Primary Boys & Secondary Co-education Max. 50 Boarders / 3 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 10 -12 Boarding Quality: Somewhat High Contact: Elizabeth Harrison Dean Of Enrolments 91 Pacific Hwy, Hornsby NSW 2077 P: 02 9847 8399 | F: 02 9447 8210 elizabeth_harrison@barker.nsw.edu.au www.barker.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Canberra Girl’s Grammar Secondary Girls Max. 92 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Barbara Connolly Director of Admissions Melbourne Ave, Deakin ACT 2600 P: 02 6202 6400 | F: 02 6273 1505 cggs@cggs.act.edu.au www.cggs.act.edu.au

8 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

Calrossy Anglican School Secondary Co-education Max. 245 Boarders / 4 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Miriam Knight - Registrar 140 Brisbane St, Tamworth NSW 2340 P: 02 6766 2965 | F: 02 6766 2439 admin@calrossy.nsw.edu.au www.calrossy.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Cranbrook School Primary & Secondary Boys Max. 100 Boarders / 2 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Somewhat High Contact: Michael Atkins Director of Admissions 5 Victoria Rd, Bellevue Hill NSW 2023 P: 02 9327 6864 | F: 02 9327 7619 enrol@cranbrook.nsw.edu.au www.cranbrook.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Frensham Secondary Girls Max. 305 Boarders / 6 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Joy Stewart - Registrar Range Rd, Mittagong NSW 2575 P: 02 4860 2000 | F: 02 4860 2020 frensham@frensham.nsw.edu.au www.frensham.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Kambala Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 100 Boarders / 2 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 6 -12 Boarding Quality: Somewhat High Contact: Tracy Mulligan Director of Enrolments 794 New South Head Rd, Rose Bay NSW 2029 P: 02 9388 6844 | F: 02 9371 8604 enrolments@kambala.nsw.edu.au www.kambala.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Kincoppal - Rose Bay Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 155 Boarders / 2 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very high Contact: Michael Jones Marketing & Communications New South Head Rd, Rose Bay NSW 2029 P: 02 9388 6000 | F: 02 9388 6001 admissions@krb.nsw.edu.au www.krb.nsw.edu.au

Kinross Wolaroi School Secondary Co-education Max. 330 Boarders / 7 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very high Somewhat High Contact: Graham Jacques - Registrar 59-67 Bathurst Rd, Orange NSW 2800 P: 02 6392 0300 | F: 02 6392 0410 registrar@kws.nsw.edu.au www.kws.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Knox Grammar School Secondary Boys Max. 160 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Martin Gooding Head of Enrolments Pacific Hwy, Wahroonga NSW 2076 P: 02 9487 0122 |F: 02 9487 0186 enrol@knox.nsw.edu.au www.knox.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------MacKillop College Secondary Girls Max. 70 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Vicky Evens - Registrar Tenison Woods Ave, Perthville NSW 2795 P: 02 6337 6900 | F: 02 6337 2424 dob@mkc.nsw.edu.au www.mkc.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------New England Girls School Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 300 Boarders / 4 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 5 -12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Alice Schmidt - Enrolments Uralla Rd, Armidale NSW 2350 P: 02 6774 8700 | F: 02 6772 7057 enrolments@negs.nsw.edu.au www.negs.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Newington College Secondary Boys Max. 50 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Yvonne Kaloterakis Director of Admissions 200 Stanmore Rd, Stanmore NSW 2048 P: 02 9568 9333 | F: 02 9569 0133 ykaloterakis@newington.nsw.edu.au www.newington.nsw.edu.au

Reference PLC Armidale (Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Armidale) Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 75 Boarders / 3 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 5 -12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Fiona Mullen Enrolments Manager Crest Rd, Armidale NSW 2350 P: 02 6770 1700 | F: 02 6772 5697 enrolments@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------PLC Sydney (Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Sydney) Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 65 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Catherine Marvell - Registrar Boundary St, Croydon NSW 2132 P: 02 9704 5666 | F: 02 9744 6614 cmarvell@plc.nsw.edu.au www.plc.nsw.edu.au

Pymble Ladies’ College Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 120 Boarders / 3 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7 - 12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Vickii Scott - Enrolments Avon Rd, Pymble NSW 2073 P: 02 9855 7799 | F: 02 9855 7766 enrol@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au www.pymblelc.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Ravenswood School for Girls Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 32 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 10-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Registrar Henry St, Gordon NSW 2072 P: 02 9498 9824|F: 02 9498 9999 enrol@ravenswood.nsw.edu.au www.ravenswood.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Snowy Mountains Grammar School Primary & Secondary Co-education Max. 50 Boarders / 2 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very high Contact: Joan Herringer - Registrar Kosciuskzo Rd, Jindabyne NSW 2627 P: 02 6457 1022 | F: 02 6457 1023 joan.herringer@smgs.nsw.edu.au www.smgs.nsw.edu.au

St. Catherine’s School Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 70 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Somewhat High Contact: Bronwyn Ridgway - Director of Communications & Marketing 26 Albion St, Waverley NSW 2024 P: 02 8305 6200 | F: 02 9369 2470 stcaths@stcaths.nsw.edu.au www.stcaths.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------St. Ignatius’ College, Riverview Primary & Secondary Boys Max. 340 Boarders / 6 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 6 -12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Guy Masters Director of Boarding Tambourine Bay Rd, Lane Cove NSW 2066 P: 02 9882 8222 | F: 02 9882 8588 gkmasters@riverview.nsw.edu.au www.riverview.nsw.edu.au

www.getaheadkids.com.au

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Reference St. Joseph’s College Secondary Boys Max. 750 Boaders / 6 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Ross Tarlinton - Headmaster Mark St, Hunters Hill NSW 2110 P: 02 9816 0900 | F: 02 9879 6804 sjc@joeys.org www.joeys.org -----------------------------------------------------St. Paul’s College Secondary Co-education Max. 62 Boarders / 2 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very high Contact: Jennifer Golenberg - Registrar Klemke Ave, Walla Walla NSW 2659 P: 02 6029 2200 | F: 02 6029 2410 admissions@stpaulscollege.nsw.edu.au www.stpaulscollege.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Shore (Sydney Church of England Grammar School) Primary & Secondary Boys Max. 200 Boarders / 4 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 6 -12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Mahdi Deaton - Registrar Blue St, North Sydney NSW 2060 P: 02 9923 2277 | F: 02 9922 2689 registrar@shore.nsw.edu.au www.shore.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Tara Anglican School for Girls Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 60 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 5 -12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Kath Marshall - Registrar Masons Drv, North Parramatta NSW 2151 P: 02 9630 6655 | F: 02 9683 6297 registrar@tara.nsw.edu.au www.tara.nsw.edu.au

The Armidale School Co-educational to Yr 5, Middle & Senior Boys Max. 250 Boarders / 5 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 6 -12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Pip Warrick - Registrar 87 Douglas St, Armidale NSW 2350 P: 02 6776 5823 | F: 02 6776 5830 info@as.edu.au www.as.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------The King’s School Primary & Secondary Boys Max. 575 Boarders / 5 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 5 -12 Boarding Quality: Very high Somewhat High Contact: Bruce Hilliard - Registrar PO Box 1, Parramatta NSW 2124 P: 02 9683 8555 | F: 02 9683 8488 enrol@kings.edu.au www.kings.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------The Scots College, Sydney Primary & Secondary Boys Max. 240 Boarders / 5 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 5-12 Boarding Quality: Somewhat High Contact: Melissa Capel Manager of Admissions Victoria Rd, Bellevue Hill NSW 2023 P: 02 9391 7624 | F: 02 9327 7584 admissions@tsc.nsw.edu.au www.tsc.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------The Scots School, Albury Primary & Secondary Co-educational Max. 100 Boarders / 2 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 5-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Heather Toth Development Officer 393 Perry St, Albury NSW 2640 P: 02 6021 3233 | F: 02 6041 3210 development@scotsalbury.nsw.edu.au www.scotsalbury.nsw.edu.au

Trinity Grammar School Secondary Boys Max. 50 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Craig Sandwell - Registrar 119 Prospect Rd, Summer Hill NSW 2130 P: 02 9581 6000 | F: 02 9799 9449 info@trinity.nsw.edu.au www.trinity.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Tudor House School Primary & Secondary Co-education Max. 50 Boarders / 1 Boarding House Boarding Years: 3-6 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Jock Bidwell - Registrar 6480 Illawarra Hwy, Moss Vale NSW 2577 P: 02 4868 0000 | F: 02 4868 0003 registrar@tudorhouse.nsw.edu.au www.tudorhouse.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------Wenona Primary & Secondary Girls Max. 55 Boarders / 2 Boarding Houses Boarding Years: 7-12 Boarding Quality: Very High Contact: Lynn Siebels - Registrar 176 Walker St, North Sydney NSW 2060 P: 02 9955 3000 | F: 02 9959 4460 registrar@wenona.nsw.edu.au www.wenona.nsw.edu.au -----------------------------------------------------More Information Maria Charlton MAP Marketing P: 02 4929 7766 maria@mapmarketing.com.au Errors & omissions excepted.

WENONA

Celebrating excellence in girls’ education since 1886 Find out about Wenona’s scholarships, Residential Program, caring community, global outlook, impressive HSC results and vibrant learning environment, close to Sydney’s cultural centre.

Scholarships Visit www.wenona.nsw.edu.au to register online and find out more. Email registrar@wenona.nsw.edu.au or telephone 02 9955 3000.

Wenona School 176 Walker Street, North Sydney @Wenona_School

10 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

re tu ic P a g in n n la P u o Y re A k? a re B r e m m u S e th r e v O Book

By Hazel Edwards

Over summer, some educators and parents aim to write the stories they have been collecting based on anecdotes from and about the children in their lives.

These picture books may be amateur productions, created for the love of a single child, or aimed at a wider audience. Photographs or other illustrations can be used in varied formats including e-books.

Mistakenly, many assume picture books are easy to write, so here are some hints adapted from my latest book ‘Authorpreneurship:The Business of Creativity’ on how to tackle a specialist niche which has a wide, international readership and often a long reading life, but which is technically challenging.

Initial Questions ❑❑ Ask yourself why you are writing it & be honest! ❑❑ Who is your audience, a specific child or the child within you? ❑❑ Is a picture book an appropriate concept for the target age group? ❑❑ Does it have the potential for imaginative visuals? ❑❑ Is the text simple? ❑❑ Has the logic been established?

Hints for Writing Picture Books ❑❑ Concept - what is the story about & is it a big enough concept for 32 pages? What is the underlying conflict, which provides the drama or tension? ❑❑ Title - consider the sound & length of the title & test it on the target age group. ❑❑ Limit the number of named characters or distinguish them quickly e.g. Lulubelle & Lucybelle are too similar. ❑❑ Be consistent in your story telling. ❑❑ Storyboard the text across a 32 page picture book, to indicate the variety of visuals that are needed.

❑❑ Are there any challenges for the illustrator e.g. make children uni-sex. ❑❑ What formats do you want the final book-print, e-book or audio. ❑❑ How many words? There are no rules, but under 200 words is a guide. Picture books with no text can be very emotionally involving. ❑❑ Get the text right first. Don’t organise an illustrator who is family or friend, as often the publisher prefers to commission illustrators. ❑❑ Tense - present tense is shorter & more immediate. ❑❑ Concepts should be presented in child, not adult vocabulary e.g. you are good at making things, rather than ‘you are inventive’ unless this ‘inventor’ term is central to the story. ❑❑ Show, not tell - rather than say the character is inventive, give three outrageous examples of what the character has made e.g. upside down pet-feeder, goggles for onion chopping without crying. ❑❑ Dated clichés like ‘pleased as punch’ convey little for younger readers. ❑❑ Use specifics - on Friday, rather than one day. ❑❑ Great to include ‘noisy’ words, but make them easy to read. ❑❑ Check the logic - there needs to be an internal logic in a fantasy. ❑❑ Make every verb count eg spluttered rather than moved. ❑❑ Is a picture book the most appropriate format for this concept? Maybe it needs to be an illustrated story or animation. ❑❑ Will the story translate into other cultures & other mediums? ❑❑ Aim for page - turning quality & interest. ❑❑ Enjoy the process. ❑❑ See how many words you can now take out.

About Hazel Edwards Courtesy of Mary Broome

Author and National Reading Ambassador Hazel Edwards is best known for her picture book series ‘There’s a Hippopotamus on our Roof Eating Cake’ and her picture book ‘Feymouse’ has just been produced as an App by Blue Quoll.

More Information Hazel Edwards National Reading Ambassador 2012 ww.hazeledwards.com

Authorpreneurship: The Business of Creativity Author: Hazel Edwards ISBN: 9780975208380 Price: AU $24.95 Publisher: The Australian Society of Authors: Keesing Press P: 02 9211 1004 www.hazeledwards.com/shop/ item/authorpreneurship-thebusiness-of-creativity

www.getaheadkids.com.au

11

Summer Learning

Do “The Terrible Twos” Really Exist?

Around the age of two children begin to express a new kind of longing - a desire for greater autonomy and they search for an independence from parents. In the USA this period is often referred to as “The Troublemaker Twos” in Australia we know it as “The Terrible Twos.”

“The Terrible Two” labelling probably stems from some adults’ need to explain any conflict that occurs within the child. However, it is not that simple!

Many factors come to play, such as: The child’s development during their first two years, the parents’ ability and willingness to adjust, and the quality of the interaction between parent and child.

The child develops a desire to try out lots of things: brushing of teeth, tying shoelaces, putting the gumboots on, getting food out of the refrigerator and getting dressed.

This development is actually completely natural to them. It is, in fact, the adults who might find it difficult to cope with that transition.

For the child’s first two years the parents have done everything. This is an important responsibility and gives them an overwhelming sense of value - they know everything and are absolutely indispensable.

For some parents “the terrible twos” come as a relief and for others it is difficult to let go of the total power.

What happens between the child and parents depends on the parents’ ability to adapt. If they reluctantly let go of the total control and are not able to appreciate the child’s desire to fend for themselves, power struggle will develop: “I want to pour the milk!”

12 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

“You can’t do that. You will spill it on the table, let me do it!”

“I want to!”

“I’ll do it... Ooops! Look, you made me spill. You are too young, I told you!”

The parent’s assessment is most likely spot on. There is at least 50% chance that the child is not able to pour the milk properly and will spill. However, the interaction between parent and child is not about who is right or wrong. It is about creating space for the child and supporting the process of learning. So parents need to allow the child to do things he/she cannot master yet, and not help until the child asks for it.

Children are small geniuses when it comes to learning things. They will continually try things, which are just a little bit more difficult than they can cope with. Years later they will be able to acknowledge, accept and respect their personal limitations - but by then they will have left home.

When a child suddenly tells you that they want to do something by themselves you will be wise to support them and offer your assistance - should they ask for it.

“I want to pour my own milk!”

“Fine! It’ll be interesting to see how you go.”

When the child spills: “Ooops! You almost made it. Would you like some help?”

“No, I can do it!”

“Sure, I can see you are learning how to do it.”

When it comes to getting dressed before leaving the house many parents justify their “helpfulness”

By Jesper Juul

by explaining why there is no time to experiment. “We have to catch the bus.” or “Dad has to get to work on time.”

I am sorry to say that this is a very bad excuse. If you do not have enough time to let your child develop then you need to take more time.

Think about a similar situation when the child is eight and struggling with homework.

“I don’t want to do maths! I can’t work it out.”

“Of course you can work it out. It just takes time to learn something new.

Just be patient - otherwise you’ll never learn anything.”

It is a good idea to listen to your own advice much earlier.

We cannot prevent the fact that there will be times when things do not go according to plan and you do have to hurry. What do you do then?

You acknowledge the child’s desire to learn and then you apologise for being in a hurry.

“I know that you want to do it yourself, and I am pleased about that... but today I am so busy that you must allow me to do it for you. Is that all right?”

Nine times out of ten the answer will be compliant: “Alright then!”

You will have to live with that tone and attitude because you have just deprived another person their independence and interrupted an important learning processes.

Parents will lose neither their power nor importance in the child’s life by creating space for this vital learning.

In the long run they will, however, gain a little more time and space for themselves and each other.

Summer Learning About Jespur Juul Jesper Juul is a family therapist and the founder of FamilyLab International. He is a renowned author and sought-after international speaker. Jesper Juul’s international best-seller and must-have book for parents and educators is now available in an Australian/New Zealand edition: “Raising competent children”.

Published by Rockpool Publishing.

More Information Jesper Juul FamilyLab www.familylab.com.au

Raising Competent Children Author: Jesper Juul Age Guide: Adults Extent: 260 Pages (Paperback) ISBN: 9781921878763 Price: AU $24.95 Publisher: Rockpool Publishing P: 02 9327 7150 www.rockpoolpublishing.com.au

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13

Punished with Rewards By Dr. Rob McEwan How often have you heard parents telling their children they will get a certain amount of money, or products or holidays for good exam results? This article questions the wisdom of rewarding kids as a means of controlling behaviour.

Often when we look to promote certain behaviours in our children, the question of rewards inevitably arises. The use of incentives as an attempt to change behaviour has a long history.

As adults, we are constantly encouraged to buy a product, complete a survey or attend a seminar through the use of rewards.

Examples include shopper points, customer loyalty benefits, fuel discount vouchers, buy two get one free offers, complete the survey and go into a draw to win a prize, to name just a few. The use of rewards to promote changes in behaviour is widespread and used relentlessly in advertising campaigns, in schools and at work.

With rewards surrounding us in our own daily lives, it seems natural to use similar ‘tactics’ when trying to get our children to behave in a certain way. Have you heard yourself saying, “You can have an ice cream if you behave yourself”, or “When you get ten stars you can have a toy”, and, “Santa only comes to good boys and girls” or words to that effect? As children grow older, some parents offer money or gifts as a reward for good results in exams or on a school report. Rewarding children for ‘good’ behaviour or ‘good’ results seems to make sense. What could be wrong with rewarding positive behaviour?

On the surface, rewarding desirable behaviour in our children seems to be an effective strategy in bringing about a positive change. After all, children usually do what we ask

14 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

almost immediately on the promise of a reward. Scratch the surface, however, and we find the short-term benefits may be concealing longer term problems.

Let’s consider rewards used to have children complete a task, for example, gold stars for making their bed in the morning. While your motivation is to have them make their bed, your child’s motivation is simply to gain gold stars.

When the gold stars stop, so too does the bed making. The reward becomes a distraction from the real reason you wanted your child to perform the task in the first place. In other words, the reward motivates your child to get a reward, not to perform the task. The task is simply the barrier to the reward.

There have been numerous studies conducted over the past forty years that have consistently shown that when children anticipate a reward for completing a task or achieving at a certain level, their performance drops, they lose interest in the task, are less creative and furthermore, your relationship with your child suffers.

In one study, high school students were given tasks that assessed their memory and creativity. Those students promised a reward demonstrated appreciable declines in both areas while those not offered rewards performed at a consistent level.

In another study, students who received pizza vouchers as part of a fast food chain sponsorship programme to encourage children to read began reading shorter, less interesting books to increase the number of books read. Not only did the quality of the reading material decrease, student reading outside of school was lower after the sponsored reading programme when compared with reading prior to the programme and lower when compared to children that did not participate in the programme.

It would appear that reading became an obstacle to receiving pizza vouchers. The more children want the reward the more they dislike the task they need to complete to receive the reward. The evidence from this and many other studies points to rewards increasing activity in the short-term while lowering creativity, interest and achievement in the long-term.

In the examples provided above, children were rewarded for completing a task. A more harmful use of rewards occurs when we link the reward to a level of performance, for example, achieving a certain mark in an examination or being selected for a team. Not only have studies found that children’s results on school assessments drop after being offered money for better marks, we risk changing our relationship with our children from that of a supporter to that of a judge.

You may be able to recall a time when you were offered a reward for achieving at a certain level and the disappointment that you felt when you just missed out, it may have been applying for a job or being considered to attend an event. This level of disappointment is the same a child feels when we offer them a new tennis racquet if they make the team or money for each A they achieve on their school report.

When your child just misses out on the team or receives a B, they are left feeling they have failed. In effect, we encouraged a sense of hope and anticipation by dangling a reward, but only delivered disappointment when the reward was taken away.

When we use rewards to motivate children, we are only motivating them to get the reward. A ‘do this to get that’ approach will always have the child focussing on the ‘that’ not the ‘this’.

Summer Learning For rewards to be effective they need to lead to lasting change in thinking and behaviour. Below are some suggestions based on research that will help reduce the long term negative effects of rewards.

How Rewards Can Become More Rewarding ❑❑ Make rewards a surprise. By offering a reward after the event you prevent your child from engaging in the task purely to get a reward. The most effective rewards and praise are those offered when they are least expected. ❑❑ Only offer rewards in areas where your child has little or no interest, for example washing dishes. The reward should only be used to initiate engagement before directing their attention to how it makes you feel to see them doing the task. Rewards do most harm when they are associated with an activity your child enjoys. The greater the reward the more a child’s interest in the activity is undermined. ❑❑ Relate the type of reward to the task.

If you feel you must reward a child for reading, make the reward a book of the child’s choice (not a pizza). ❑❑ Use rewards sparingly. The regular use of rewards in motivating children can lead them to expect praise or a prize for simply completing daily routines, behaving appropriately or doing well in an activity. They become conditioned to being rewarded, in turn leading to a false sense of entitlement. When the rewards are not offered in the future, children are left disappointed and lack perseverance and motivation. ❑❑ Interest and enjoyment are the greatest motivators. Direct your child’s attention towards the pleasure they experience from completing a task, not the outcome or a possible reward. For example, statements like, “You looked like you were having fun out there”, or, “It felt good to see you sharing your study notes”, together with questions such as “Did you enjoy the book?” not only heighten awareness of intrinsic motivation but

also build your relationship as you show an interest in their feelings. ❑❑ Be the supporter not the judge.

Rather than set the criteria for your child’s success, let them set the standard. Questions like, “Are you happy with your performance?” often bring honest self-assessments that lead to improvement in the future. Alternatively, a child who feels they have done well can be left demoralised when we suggest they could have done better. Or worse, we offer and then withhold a reward for not meeting our standards. ❑❑ Never offer a reward when a child is misbehaving - this is a bribe not a reward. A child, who is offered a reward to behave, quickly learns that by misbehaving they are likely to be offered more rewards in the future. ❑❑ In numerous parenting articles and at schools, we are told punishment is out; rewards are in. Catch your child doing something positive and reward or praise them for it. The irony is that rewards and punishment are two sides of the same coin. A coin intended to control behaviour. If rewards do not lead to lasting change they are not really rewards, they are sticks disguised as carrots.

About Dr. Rob McEwan Dr. Rob McEwan is the Head of Senior School and Deputy Headmaster at Newcastle Grammar School.

He has presented at national and international education conferences and led teacher professional development across a range of schools. His doctoral thesis explored student motivation and he has published articles on the explicit teaching of higher order thinking skills.

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15

Summer Learning

A Guide to

Safe Schoolies 2012

By Michelle Mitchell

After 12 years of doing homework and eating vegemite sandwiches many school leavers choose to let their hair down at Schoolies. But this week-long party has authorities on edge and parents terrified.

According to the National Schoolies Week Organisation 52.3% of boys and 37.3% of girls get drunk every day at the Gold Coast event. 18.8% percent of boys and 9.2% of girls have sex with one casual partner during the week, of which 36.4% of boys and 45.1% of girls do not use a condom.

Research from police arrest statistics shows 90% of schoolies partying in Queensland will consume alcohol, 25% will smoke cannabis, and 11% will take ecstasy.

This step by step guide will help parents and teachers keep teenagers safe at Schoolies this year.

1. Look Out for Your Mates Never leave your mates, not even for a minute. Never wander away from lit up areas, especially during the early hours of the morning. Don’t go anywhere with anyone you don’t know.

16 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

2. Don’t Forget the Basics Don’t forget to drink 8 glasses of water and eat 3 meals every day. Even a small amount of alcohol on an empty stomach and a dehydrated body can make someone very sick. I know that 8 hours sleep may be a lot to ask, but try to sleep until you feel normal.

3. Think Before You Consume Alcohol Drinking in moderation will help keep you safe. Drinking excessive alcohol can put you at greater risk of hurting yourself and make you less aware of danger. Remember that drink spiking is a big problem at Schoolies. Don’t ever put your drink down or accept a drink from someone else.

4. Be Cautious About Romance Toolies is the name for older people who attend Schoolies.

Unfortunately, they are known for causing trouble. Some sell illegal drugs and some are solely there to ‘hook up’ with vulnerable youngsters. Remember that once Schoolies is over one night stands rarely keep in touch. When it

comes to sexual activity, be cautious and think about your safety first. Pregnancy, STIs and rape are things to seriously things to think about.

5. Know How to Handle a Crisis If you are confronted with a crisis, you should ring the ambulance or police. Many young people don’t realise that the ambulance operates differently to the police. The ambulance is not there to enforce the law. They are there to keep you safe. If your friend had taken illegal drugs which had caused their body to go into shock, they wouldn’t get into trouble. The ambulance will only call the police if their safety is in danger. For example, if you pull a knife on them.

6. Get the Red Frog App A useful free service teenagers can access during Schoolies is www.RedFrogs.com.au. The Red Frog App enables teenagers to call a “walk home” if they get lost or abandoned, or book “pancakes” to be made in their hotel room.

Summer Learning The Safety Checklist

More Information

❑❑ Does your teenager have friends who will watch out for them? ❑❑ Has your teenager had adequate alcohol & sex education? ❑❑ Does your teenager understand the role of the ambulance & police? ❑❑ Have you considered packaging some frozen meals for them? ❑❑ Has your teenager downloaded the Red Frogs App? ❑❑ Does your teenager know they can call home anytime, without judgement?

Michelle Mitchell Founder Youth Excel Author of “What Teenage Girls Don’t Tell their Parents” michelle@youthexcel.com.au www.michellemitchell.org

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17

Missed Out On A University Place?

Don’t Despair

By Tim Laurence

Every year, about 20% of students who apply for a university place will miss out. Last year, for example and despite more places being made available, there were 40,000 more applications than there were places available.

For students and their parents, the news that they’ve missed out on a university place can come as a bucket of cold water over their hopes and dreams. Many may feel that it’s the end of career aspirations.

18 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

But as bad as it feels, missing out on the offer of a university place doesn’t mean the end of a student’s career goals. There are a number of solid options available – think of them as smart alternatives that can help students stay on track to achieve their dreams.

What to Do? Once students realise they do not have a place, the first step is to find out about alternate programs. These are programs offered by universities that are similar to the student’s first choice, but with lower entry criteria.

Students who start in an alternate program have a good chance of moving across to their preferred course, once they’ve established a solid academic record.

For example, if the student missed out on a place in the Law degree at a particular university, they should consider enrolling in Arts at that university and then transferring across later on.

Students may also consider enrolling at institutions with lower entry criteria for their dream course such as a different university or TAFE provider.

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Again, as they build up a good record of achievement, students can apply to transfer to their preferred university.

Above all, don’t panic. There are a number of options that lead students on an alternate pathway to their dream undergraduate course.

Another option is to consider enrolling with a pathway provider especially one that is associated with their university of choice that has very strong ties with the university’s academic programs and lecturers.

About Tim Laurence

The diploma courses at these pathway colleges are generally accredited as equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree, and successful completion means students can qualify to enter their preferred undergraduate course.

What’s important is to work out what went wrong, acknowledge it, make the necessary course corrections and then try, try again.

What if You Don’t Get the Grades?

As soon as you know that you didn’t make the grade, start investigating alternate programs available at your first choice university.

If you are still unsuccessful, you may wish to consider applying to study the same course at an institution with lower entry criteria such as TAFE. Also consider pathway programs that will lead you directly into your first-choice university course

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19

Eating More

V egetables

By Dorte Bladt

Sharon is almost reduced to tears as she describes the difficulty she is having with her 3 year old. She explains; “He used to be such a good eater; broccoli, cauliflower, star fruit, whatever we served him he ate and loved it. In the last 6 months he has become a nightmare to feed.

He refuses everything other than sausages and nuggets. Every dinner I try to sweet talk him, persuade him, bribe him, and yell at him. It is so stressful; I just don’t know what to do...”

I can’t tell you how often I hear this scenario!

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), low fruit and vegetable consumption is among the top ten risk factors contributing to global mortality (WHO, 2011).

Children’s growth and development and people’s health in general depend on the food we eat, with fruit and vegetables playing a major role.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics released a report in May 2012, looking at the fruit and vegetable eating habits of Australian children and adults. National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and the Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) recommend that 4-7 year olds eat 1 fruit and 2 veggies per day, 8-11 year olds eat 1 fruit, 3 veggies, 12-18 year olds should have 3 fruits and 4 vegetables and 19+ 2 and 5.

Sadly, not many of us reach that target! About 57% children aged 5-7 years eat the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables, 32% of children aged 8-11 years, whereas only 5% of people aged 12-18 years and 6% of people 19 years and over do so.

We know that eating habits are established in childhood, and it looks like we are not very good at making healthy eating habits stick. So what to do?

Tips Clare Rowe, Child Psychologist Eating a variety of fruit and Sydney Morning Herald May 1, 2012 vegetables, and enough of them, ❑❑ Don’t negotiate, reason or beg gives people a better chance of your child to eat their food. getting all the nutrients and dietary Children learn quickly that fibre they need (AIHW, 2000), and parents cannot physically make could help prevent major health them eat. Set a good parental conditions such as cardiovascular example. disease, diabetes, obesity and certain cancers (WHO, 2002).

20 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

❑❑ Don’t become a ‘meal coach’.

Usually parents try & ‘sell’ their children the benefits of eating fruit & vegetables. Then they proceed with coaxing, bribing, guilt & finally threats.

These strategies do not work! ❑❑ When trying to introduce a new food, don’t give up; children need to be presented with a food 5 - 10 times before they will try it. ❑❑ Stay neutral & ignore tantrums. A child will only eat chicken nuggets, hot dogs & unhealthy foods if they are available. Parents need to remember that hunger is motivating.

Some other tips that I have found helpful over the years, both for my own family, and when advising parents on trying to get kids to have a more balanced diet include: ❑❑ Serve small, well presented portions - try not to overwhelm & when it looks that good on the plate, it will probably taste good too. ❑❑ Serve vegetables raw, cut into interesting, easy to handle shapes - use the peeler to make carrot, cucumber & apple shavings, cut into the sides of carrots & shape into flowers or other interesting things. ❑❑ Serve raw vegetables as an appetiser while dinner is cooking, when everyone is most hungry-sticks of carrots, celery, cucumber, capsicum, raw beans, snow peas or peas are easy to nibble on.

Health ❑❑ A whole piece of fruit can be too much to handle - cut it into bite size or invest in a slinky - cutter.

String it onto tooth picks, skewers or even a string. ❑❑ Have the fruit & vegetables already cut up in a container in the fridge ready to nibble on. ❑❑ Have the fruit & vegetables already cut up in a small takeaway Tupperware or sealed bag to put in the school or sports bag. ❑❑ Enjoy the art of creating a lovely meal together as a family - let the child help prepare the food under proper supervision - cutting, washing, peeling & cooking. ❑❑ Make collages & creatures of the fruit & vegetables, dress the plate as a smiley face, use tooth picks & skewers to make a man or an animal. ❑❑ Have delicious & healthy dips such as hummus to dip the vegetable sticks into. ❑❑ Have fun together growing vegetables in your garden or in pots, tomatoes, peas, carrots, snow peas, beans, lettuce, beetroot - nothing tastes as good as freshly picked, home grown vegetables. ❑❑ Make a soup, vegetables taste delicious in a broth. ❑❑ Make juice - you can hide vegetables in the apple & orange juice. ❑❑ Puree zucchini, carrots, pumpkin & put it in everything you makebolognaise, meat patties, mashed potatoes, muffins & cakes. ❑❑ Have family dinners together every night - families who eat together, stay together. ❑❑ Enjoy a variety of fruit & vegetables yourself - children do as we do, not as we say, so make a fuss of how wonderful it all tastes.

❑❑ Shop with your kids - let them choose which fruit & vegetables they prefer this week ❑❑ Make up cute names for the vegetables - snow trees for cauliflower, superman food for spinach ❑❑ Encourage children to take 1 bite of each before they say ‘no thank you’

About Dorte Bladt

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P: 02 4942 4842 2 Lincoln Street, Charlestown www.familychiropracticcharlestown.com.au

Family Chiropractic Centre Charlestown Dorte specialises in posture and spinal health. She checks your spine to assess if the bones, muscles or ligaments are working properly and will gently, safely and naturally correct it to allow the body and the nervous system to function better.

Dorte also provides advice on which exercises would be beneficial as well as which position to sleep, stand and sit in for the best possible posture.

More Information Dorte Bladt Doctor of Chiropractic Family Chiropractic Centre Charlestown 2 Lincoln St, Charlestown NSW 2290 P: 02 4942 4842 info@familychiropracticcharlestown.com.au www.familychiropracticcharlestown.com.au

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21

Health

Epilepsy Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder of the brain that causes seizures. It can affect people of any age and around 50 million people worldwide suffer from the condition.

What Happens in Epilepsy?

Electrical activity is happening in our brains all the time. This is how our brain cells (or neurons) communicate with each other.

A seizure occurs when there is a sudden burst of this activity.

There are two main types of seizures, which are defined by where they start in your brain: either in a certain area (focal) or all over (generalised).

During focal seizures, you may be alert or awake but not know what is going on. They involve uncontrollable movements of specific parts of your body or unusual sensations like numbness or pins and needles.

Generalised seizures involve both halves of your brain and cause uncontrollable movements, usually of your arms and legs. You lose consciousness during these seizures, which can last from a few seconds to many minutes.

What Can Trigger Seizures?

Seizures can happen at any time, but some things make them more likely to happen. These are known as triggers, and they include excessive alcohol consumption, certain drugs and not getting enough sleep.

22 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

By Dr. Reshad Malik

How is Epilepsy Diagnosed?

Living with Epilepsy

You must have more than one seizure for a diagnosis to be made. One seizure alone does not mean you have epilepsy, as it can be due to many other things. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor may refer you to a brain specialist called a neurologist.

A diagnosis of epilepsy can change your life and it can take time to get used to it. Some people may not be allowed to drive or operate heavy machinery for a period of time. It is not uncommon to become depressed due to these lifestyle changes. If you feel that you may be depressed, talk to your doctor as this can be treated.

Your neurologist will do tests such as blood tests, scans of your brain and a measurement of your brain waves called an EEG (electroencephalogram).

It can also be useful to keep a diary of your seizures, which you can then show to your neurologist. This tracks your seizure pattern and helps your team work out potential triggers and the best treatments for you.

Can Epilepsy Be Treated?

Medicines called ‘anti-epileptic drugs’ are the main treatment. They are not a cure, but can reduce the number of seizures you get. There are many different types of medicines and your doctor will tell you which is best for you. There are other types of treatment too, including surgery, but this is much less commonly used.

If you know what your triggers are, you can also help to reduce the frequency of your seizures by avoiding them if you can. For example, getting into a regular sleep pattern can prevent tiredness from triggering a seizure. It is also important to take your medication regularly, as prescribed by your doctor. Plan ahead, and don’t run out!

Through working with your doctor and agreeing on the best treatment options for you, you could be one of the majority who have their seizures under control, and don’t let it get in the way of living a full and active life.

Remember! ❑❑ If you know what your seizure triggers are, try to avoid them ❑❑ Plan ahead so you don’t run out of medication ❑❑ Discuss with your care team ways to make daily living easier & safer ❑❑ There is a lot of support for people with epilepsy. Ask your doctor about local support groups & organisations

About Dr. Reshad Malik Dr. Reshad Malik is a member of the medical writing team at Medikidz, a charity that provides children and teenagers with informative, accessible and fun comics to help them understand their bodies and illness.

More information www.medikidz.com

Health Andy to Mediland - a distant planet shaped like a human body where the first stop is the brain!

What’s Up With Wendy? Medikidz Explain Epilepsy Authors: Dr. Kim Chilman-Blair & Ian Rimmer When Wendy’s video game victory culminates in a seizure, her friend Andy realises there is something wrong with Wendy, but what is it?

Luckily the Medikidz, a group of medical supeheroes are on hand to help. They transport Wendy and

Andy and Wendy find out what happens inside the brain when someone has epilepsy and exactly what causes an epileptic seizure and the treatments that are available.

This is another riveting and informative comic book from Medikidz that is a must have reference for families schools, and medical practices.

Age Guide: 9+ Years Extent: 32 Pages (Paperback) ISBN: 9781906935009 Price: AU $19.99 Publisher: Medikidz Limited P: +44 (0) 2073766630 www.medikidz.com

KidsSmile Providing specialist dental care for infants, children, adolescents & those with specialist needs.

Teen dental is also available.

Dr. Helen Cornwell Paediatric Dentist P: 4962 7300 40 Brown Rd Broadmeadow NSW 2292

www.kidssmile.com.au

treating foot & lower limb conditions for your kids & you

www.getaheadkids.com.au

23

News

Come Along & Be Inspired with the Special Olympics

By Susan Walton - Australian Director, Opening Eyes, Special Olympics The Special Olympics involves 250 athletes competing in six sports participating in the Junior National Games in the Hunter and Newcastle is fortunate enough to be hosting this great event 8-9 December.

For months the wheels of planning have been in motion with sponsors coming on board from the business community and private citizens volunteering in large numbers.

The Forum at the University of Newcastle is the venue for the swimming and cricket events, with track and field as well as gymnastics being held at Glendale. Basketball will be held at Broadmeadow Stadium and Soccer matches will be played at Broadmeadow Magic Soccer Stadium.

Does Your Child Lack Concentration at School?

Glasses or vision therapy may be the answer.

Behavioural Optometry Vision Therapy • Ortho-K Contact Lenses

specialeyes OPTOMETRISTS Susan K Walton B Optom FACB

245 King St, Newcastle NSW 2300 Appointments 02 4926 4799

24 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

With its inception in the USA in 1968, Special Olympics (SO) has been operating in Newcastle on a weekly basis in a number of sports since 1980 thanks to well known Novocastrian Leon Burwell. He has been a major driving force in the weekly local basketball that includes 25-30 regular players.

Each week there are over 50 people playing ten pin bowling with the same number participating in aquatics. Smaller groups will also be found weekly at Newcastle sporting fields and locations participating in soccer, T-ball, track and field as well as gymnastics.

There is also a weekly social dance group that meets in Cardiff providing a fun outing that usually attracts more than 50 Special Novocastrians.

Special Olympics is a worldwide movement that now has sporting events in 170 countries catering for a wide range of summer and winter sports for people with intellectual disabilities. Around the world there are 4 million athletes now involved at local, regional, state, national and world Games. Their sporting motto is “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt” A group of health professionals volunteer their services as part of the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes Program. Our Junior National Games will have athletes taking part in these health services by the Opening Eyes (optometrists), Special Smiles (dentist), and Fit Feet (podiatrists) programs.

Claudia Jackson Photo Courtesy of: Andrew Monger from AJM

I have been fortunate to be involved with the Opening Eyes program since 1994, having volunteered at three world SO games in the USA and Dublin, NZ National Games, and several State and National Games here in Australia.

Opening Eyes have provided 98,000 pairs of spectacles and sporting goggles to Special Olympians all over the world, with frames and lenses being donated by global companies and generous financial support being donated by Lions Club International, and Optometrists and Optical Dispensers (and their families) all volunteering their time and expertise to make it happen.

If you know someone locally who may benefit from our local regular Special Olympics sporting and dance meets, please have them contact our local Special Olympics chapter by phoning Ellena Morris on 4990 6547.

We invite you and your family to come along to the various sporting events and be inspired by the abilities of these Special Athletes.

More Information www.specialolympics.com.au/ juniorgames

News

Prominent Author Visits Hunter Valley Grammar School Writer and social researcher Maggie Hamilton has published numerous books that touch the core of family life.

The Parent Forum was open to all members of the community and was attended by a large group of people.

“What’s Happening to Our Girls?” is based on two years research into the twenty-first century lives of girls and presents an insider’s view into the challenges girls are currently experiencing, and the solutions to these issues.

Susan Boyd, Communications Officer for HVGS states;

In her newly completed book “What’s Happening to Our Boys?” Maggie puts the lives of our boys under the microscope, uncovering the issues they struggle with, and how best they can be supported.

Hunter Valley Grammar School (HVGS) hosted Maggie Hamilton for two sessions during October one for teachers and another for parents.

The Teacher Workshop attracted over 100 guests from HVGS, Scone Grammar, Avondale College and Central Coast Grammar.

“Maggie was very engaging and at times shocking with her views. HVGS sold out of her books that were available on the night. “

Key Messages for Parents 1. Children are influenced by advertising from six months of age, setting them up for a life of anxiety about wearing the right brand of clothes & looking a certain way 2. Stress & anxiety peaks in adolescence & may manifest in problems such as teen binge drinking 3. Advertising messages during their upbringing inhibits creativity & prevents children learning resilience & survival skills

4. Advertising results in selfabsorbed teenagers & immediacy in product gratification 5. To offset consumerism parents are encouraged to introduce creativity & connection with the earth including art corners or art time, getting outdoors & circulating toys Maggie’s latest book is called Secret Girls Business; it is a fabulous collection of life, love, fashion craft, food, fun, imagination and friends.

More Information Susan Boyd Communications Officer Hunter Valley Grammar School P: 02 4934 2444 www.hvgs.nsw.edu.au

2014 ScholarShipS applications close midnight Monday 4 February 2013 acaDEMic ScholarShipS YEar 5-11 MUSic ScholarShipS YEar 5-11 Visit www.hvgs.nsw.edu.au to apply and for further information.

NORFOLK ST ASHTONFIELD 2323 p 4934 2444

www.getaheadkids.com.au

25

News

World Aerobics Team

Newcastle Grammar School Students Triumph in Aerobics Newcastle Grammar School boasts of a successful year of competition for its aerobics teams.

Its 2 Step teams and one Fitness team competed at the FISAF National Aerobics and Fitness Championships in Adelaide 27-29 July 2012. The School was very successful coming home with 1 gold and 2 silver medals.

The first team to compete in the finals was the Mini Fitness team consisting of Jaydon Routley, Alexandra Lange, Leo Hasdarnkgul, Isaac Duncan-Daley, Millicent Maund, Eliza Guest, Natalie Beesley and Brilee Stubbs who gained a silver medal.

The next team to compete in the finals was the Cadet Step team made up of Paige Peterson, Yasmin Gupta, Solveigh Gusse, Matilida Dickinson, Rebecca Bonaventura, Sabrina Kliousis, Ebony Feros and Geneiveve Greer, took out a gold medal.

The final team to perform was the Junior Step Team of Mackenzie Smith, Dominique Oakley, Dominique Murphy, Lena Ingram, Abbey Bush, Abby Peters, Ruby Abbott-Mannox, Claudia Boyce and Sophie Bowman who missed out on gold by 0.2 of a point to gain a silver medal.

A group of talented Newcastle Grammar School students made up of Mackenzie Smith, Lena Ingram, Dominique Oakley, Dominique Murphy, Claudia Boyce, Ruby Abbott-Monnox, Abby Bush and Sophie Bowman went to the Netherlands to represent Australia at the FISAF World Aerobics Championships 15- 21 October 2012 and placed 8th in the finals.

More Information Michelle O’Toole Communications Manager Newcastle Grammar School P: 02 4929 5811 ww.ngs.nsw.edu.au

INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION At Newcastle Grammar School, we value each child as the unique individual they are. Our small class sizes ensure individual attention is paid to each and every student.

• Kindergarten to Year 4 - average of 19 students per class • Year 7 to Year 10 - average of 20 students per class • Year 12 - average of 12 students per class * based on 2012 enrolment numbers

BOOK A TOUR Register your attendance online or scan here

26 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

Newcastle Grammar School p: (02) 4929 5811

w: ngs.nsw.edu.au

News

Photos courtesy of Baby Ballerinas & Co.

as & Co.

Angelina and the Principal of the Central School of Dance, Miss Karen Barker-Rogers.

aby Ballerin

isits B Angelina v

Angelina Ballerina Visits Baby Ballerinas & Co Angelina Ballerina, a mouse who loves to dance travelled from England to visit Baby Ballerinas & Co at their open day Sunday 23 September 2012 to the delight of the children and parents.

Budding little dancers joined Angelina on her special visit to Central School of Dance in Oakdale Road, Gateshead the home of Baby Ballerinas & Co. Angelina twirled, skipped and leaped with dancers from 2 years of age.

Angelina

’s helpers

on the d

ay.

More Information Baby Ballerinas & Co P: 02 4948 2953 info@babyballerinas.com.au www.babyballerinas.com.au

www.getaheadkids.com.au

27

k o o ay b e aw c Fa ive G

Exclusive Products to Kill Head Lice & Their Eggs Nit Busters opened in Cessnock in September 2009 and was the first head lice treatment salon outside of Sydney to combat the infestation of head lice.

Nit Busters are exclusive & safe products to treat & remove head lice & nits.

The head lice epidemic does not discriminate against age, wealth or social status - it can affect babies, toddlers, teenagers, mums, dads and grandparents alike.

Located within Hairytales at the Ark, Nit Busters Salon are specialists in treating, cutting & styling children’s hair infested with head lice & nits.

Hair salons are not permitted to cut hair that has even 1 nit in it. If head lice are found during the cutting process salons are not allowed to finish the job.

Products Available for Purchase Hairytales at the Ark 104 Vincent St, Cessnock NSW P: 02 4990 4569

Nit Busters declared a war on these pests by liaising with the Health Department to set Hairy Tales salon on a mission to eliminate the plague.

In this salon, children are not expected to sit for long periods of time and the charges are very reasonable.

If you and your family struggle with head lice and need a haircut and lice treatment, this salon can do it at the same time, and can also colour hair.

k boo ! e c Fa away Give Nit Busters Treatment Products 1. Treatment Solutions Stage 1: Kills head lice & eggs 2. Shampoo Stage 2 : Assists in prevention of head lice & their eggs 3. Leave-in Conditioner Stage 3: Detangles hair with a smooth silky shine 4. Preventative Stage 4: Assists in prevention of headline & their eggs

More Information Nit Busters P: 02 4990 4569 hairytalesattheark@hotmail.com

Like Get Ahead Kids on Facebook to Win! www.facebook.com/GetAheadKids NEWCASTLE OFFICE t +61 2 4926 1300 f +61 2 4926 5557 17 Arnott Street, Newcastle West NSW 2302 e sales@ncp.com.au

SYDNEY OFFICE t +61 2 9890 7029 f +61 2 9890 7036 8-10 Frank Street, Wetherill Park NSW 2164

With special thanks to Nit busters, Get Ahead Kids has 3 Treatment Packs valued at approx. $112 each to giveaway!!

Each pack contains: Treatment Solutions Stage 1, Shampoo Stage 2, Leave-in Conditioner Stage 3 and Preventative Stage 4.

Visit www.facebook.com/GetAheadKids and click the like button for a chance to win.

A division of Bright Print Group

28 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

Australian Reptile Park

G Re ive ad aw er ay

Giveaway

Holiday Fun at the Reptile Park

The Australian Reptile Park can make your Christmas shopping easy with its great variety of online gift cards!

Kids 2 Keeper Gift Cards These specially designed junior zoo keeping programs combine loads of fun with animal interaction for kids aged 8-18. Little Kids 2 Keeper will see the 8-12’s wash Hugo the giant Galapagos tortoise, feed reptiles, learn about animals, enrichment and conservation and meet animals up close. Kids 2 Keeper for the 13-18’s will educate kids interested in working with animals and provide a behind the scenes look at how a busy zoo operates.

Behind the Scenes Tours You’ll feel like a VIP on this 90 minute fully escorted tour which takes you to restricted areas to see our keepers and animals in action. Visit the off-display reptile room, meet koalas, giant python, baby wombat and reptiles up close.

Enter the restricted Tasmanian devil breeding facility and learn about our battle to save the species. Witness a funnel web milking and venture into the venom room, home to over 150 snakes some of the deadliest in the world!

Have a Devil of a Time The iconic Tasmanian devil is in danger of becoming extinct in the wild due to a contagious cancer called Devil Facial Tumour Disease. Over 90% are extinct in the wild and the reptile Park is leading the way in the fight for survival with a breeding facility that aims to repopulate Tasmania once DFTD has run its destructive course. Fully escorted by a Mammals expert, you’ll learn all about this cutting edge conservation project happening right here in NSW, meet some beautiful joeys up close and play tug-o-war with a feisty Tassie devil!

Adopt an Animal for Christmas Buy an Animal Adoption at the Australian Reptile Park and help provide for the menagerie of wonderful creatures found at the Reptile Park. Amazing creatures such as the Tasmanian devil, Galapagos tortoise, saltwater crocodile, koala, wombat, reticulated python, chameleon and Iguana require daily care from keepers, feeding, heating and more.

Get Ahead Kids® Partners

Family Fun at the Australian Reptile Park The perfect present for a fun loving family is a family pass to the Australian Reptile Park. Priced at $68 for two adults and two children, you’ll give the gift of memories that they’ll cherish forever. There’s plenty of animal interaction at the handson zoo and a great place for a fun family day together.

More information

hey dee ho music runs music programs for 1- 5 year olds. There are franchise opportunities in the inner Sydney suburbs & the northern suburbs of Adelaide.

Franchise Enquiries: (03) 9786 3104 | jenny@heydeehomusic.com.au www.heydeehomusic.com.au

www.reptilepark.com.au With special thanks to the Australian Reptile Park, Get Ahead Kids® has 5 Family Passes to the Australian Reptile Park valued at approx. $68.00 each to giveaway!

Each pass allows a family of 2 adults and 2 children (3 - 15 years) a wildlife experience at the Australian Reptile Park.

Visit www.getaheadkids.com.au and click the giveaways link for a chance to win one of these fantastic Australian Reptile Park family pass giveaways.

www.getaheadkids.com.au

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r y e d a a w Revea i G

The Wiggles

On May 18, Anthony, Murray, Greg and Jeff - The Wiggles - announced that 2012 would be their final year of touring together and unveiled plans for their final world tour.

At the end of 2012 Jeff, Murray and Greg will then hand over the purple, red and yellow skivvies to a new generation of performers and will take on backstage roles.

Now having spent 2012 travelling through Asia, USA, Canada, Ireland, United Kingdom and New Zealand, The Wiggles are finally coming home for their Celebration tour - the final shows together of Anthony, Murray, Jeff and Greg.

Anthony will continue on stage as the Blue Wiggle alongside Emma Watkins, Lachlan Gillespie, and Simon Pryce, who have been handpicked by the group to become the Yellow, Purple, and Red Wiggles.

The Wiggles Celebration Tour of Australia in November and December will be a spectacular giving their Wiggly fans a chance to say their own farewell to Murray, Jeff and Greg. The show of course will also feature Dorothy, Wags, Henry, Captain Feathersword and the world famous Wiggly dancers.

“We’ve been entertaining children around the world for 21 years and it’s important that we plan for the future so that The Wiggles can keep wiggling in the years to come,” said Murray.

More Information www.thewiggles.com.au

With special thanks to The Wiggles, Get Ahead Kids has one family pass to The Wiggles Celebration Tour to giveaway valued at approx $154.00!

The family pass entitles the holder entry to ‘The Wiggles Celebration’ Wednesday 12 December, 1pm at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

Visit www.getaheadkids.com.au and click the giveaways link for a chance to win this fantastic Wiggles Giveaway.

Where’s Wally Books Author: Martin Handford With over 56 million copies sold worldwide encompassing more than 30 languages in 38 countries, it is no secret that Where’s Wally? is not going out of fashion. Young children will love the Santa Spectacular book; it is filled with quizzes, puzzles, stickers and search pages.

Where’s Wally Deluxe Anniversary Edition is sure to keep kids and parents busy for hours as they hunt through the pages for wheelbarrows, icecreams, flying saucers, cavemen and more!

These books are fun for kids of all ages and make great Christmas presents for children.

30 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

Where’s Wally? Santa Spectacular Extent: 36 Pages (Paperback) ISBN: 9781406337945 Price: AU $12.95

Where’s Wally? Deluxe Anniversary Edition Extent: 32 Pages (Paperback) ISBN: 9781406340396 Price: AU $19.95 Age Guide: 3+ Years Publisher: Walker Books P: 02 9517 9577 www.walkerbooks.com.au

Reviews

Monsieur Albert Rides to Glory Author: Peter Smith Illustrator: Bob Graham Monsieur Albert is a cycling fanatic who one day decides to enter the biggest cycling race in France.

Soon though, he realises he is racing against the best cyclists and nobody thinks he stands a chance of winning the big race.

This is an entertaining and light hearted book with excellent use of rhyme. Kids and adults will enjoy the story about the ultimate underdog.

Age Guide: 4+ Years Extent: 32 Pages (Hardback) ISBN: 9781742376806 Price: AU $24.99 Publisher: Allen & Unwin P: 02 8425 0100 www.allenandunwin.com

Alphabet Town Author: Bryan Evans Illustrator: Kimberly Moon Zero is feeling left out in the town of numbers. Nobody takes notice of her as she doesn’t amount to anything.

One day she meets Spot the Dot and together they discover Alphabet town on the other side of the hill. The numbers and letters become friends and Zero and Spot teach the letters of Alphabet town about numbers and counting. In return the letters teach the numbers to read.

This is a clever tale about the creation of words, letters, numbers and books. It is an ideal reader for young children.

Age Guide: 4+ Years Extent: 32 Pages (Paperback) ISBN: 9781921928277 Price: AU $14.95 Publisher: New Frontier Publishing P: 02 9453 1531 www.newfrontier.com.au

The story moves between the real world where Jack is dealing with the death of his mother and an imaginary world on the other side of the mirror, a world made up of stories Jack’s mother used to tell him.

Greylands Author: Isobelle Carmody One night Jack finds himself entering the Greylands through the bathroom mirror. Jack views the Greylands as a place with no colour, noise or laughter. It is a place where only the wounded can enter.

This is a powerful story of a teenage boy and his younger sister trying to cope with the tragic death of their mother. Using metaphor and symbolism, the novel describes a child’s emotions during the bleak time and the way a family is able to move through the grieving period.

Walking for Fitness, Pleasure and Health Author: Helen Vause Walking is a great physical activity as it is free, easy and available for all ages. It is recommended for health, weight control and fitness.

But do walkers realise that it can be undertaken in a scientific way?

Long-time walker Helen Vause provides information for recreational walking, half marathons, Nordic walking, Mall walking, diet, case studies, walking with children, clothing and equipment.

This book is exceptional as it provides invaluable instructions and programs for an activity that crosses gender and age. A must have for your family or school library and highly recommended for doctors surgeries.

Age Guide: Open Extent: 172 Pages (Paperback) ISBN: 9781877437137 Price: AU $24.99 Publisher: Exisle Publishing P: 02 4998 3327 www.exislepublishing.com.au

This novel is ideal for secondary aged children as it examines the reactions to the loss of a loved one, which may not be fully understood by younger readers.

Age Guide: 12+ Years Extent: 189 Pages (Paperback) ISBN: 9781921665677 Price: AU $18.95 Publisher: Ford Street Publishing P: 03 9481 1120 www.fordstreetpublishing.com

For more great reviews visit www.getaheadkids.com.au www.getaheadkids.com.au

31

Activity Zone

Christmas

Super Santa

By Celia Berrell

Dot - To - Dot 1

Santa’s very special with his super-human powers.

Achieving many days of work in just a few short hours.

No wonder we can’t see him as he races through the sky.

Our presents will appear in just the blinking of an eye.

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His reindeer must be super-charged with Krypton’s magic force.

Galloping a million times as fast as any horse.

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Santa’s very special as he conquers gravity.

And never gets a speeding fine or causes a calamity.

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He’s got a beard of silver and a funny soft red hat.

Perhaps he’s really Superman who’s just grown old and fat!

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More Information www.sciencerhymes.com.au

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There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Star!

Author: P. Crumble Illustrator: Louis Shea The old lady is back, this time with an enormous festive appetite. In this book the classic rhyme is transformed into a unique Aussie Christmas themed tale.

Featuring a 3D image cover, each page is bought to life with brilliantly drawn coloured imagery. This is an ideal fun tale for young children.

Age Guide: 3+ Years Extent: 24 Pages (Paperback) ISBN: 9781742833309 Price: AU $14.99 Publisher: Scholastic Australia P: 02 4328 3555 www.scholastic.com.au

The Twelve Days of Aussie Christmas Author: Colin Buchanan Illustrator: Glen Singleton This is a hilarious Australian version of the classic ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ song.

Readers will be entertained with the bonus sing along CD and keep busy with over 150 things hidden within the beautifully illustrated pages.

Age Guide: 3+ Years Extent: 23 Pages (Hardback) ISBN: 9781742833675 Price: AU $19.99 Publisher: Scholastic Australia P: 02 4328 3555 www.scholastic.com.au

Great Stocking Fillers The Elf on the Shelf Since its launch in 2005, The Elf on the Shelf® has sold over 2.5 million copies in the US, capturing the hearts of children who have embraced the magic of adopting their very own elf, sent by Santa Claus. This November makes the first time the gift set will be available in Australia.

At the start of each Christmas season, the elf appears to serve as Santa’s eyes and ears, and every night it travels back to the North Pole to report in. Elves are available in both boys and girls.

The gift set includes a North Pole pixie-elf, hardbound children’s book and keepsake box. Children can register their elf online to receive an official adoption certificate as well as a special letter from Santa.

With celebrity fans including Jennifer Garner and Mark Wahlberg, The Elf on the Shelf is a charming new Christmas tradition that answers the one question that children always ask, “How does Santa really know if I’m being naughty or nice?”

More Information www.theelfontheshelf.com

The Elf on the Shelf Authors: Carol Aebersold & Chanda Bell Illustrator: Coë Steinwart The Elf on the Shelf is set to become a classic in the same genre as “The Night before Christmas”.

A major part of the fun of this book is naming the toy Elf on the Shelf that accompanies the book and warning newcomers not to touch him as touching removes his magic.

This is a delightful book and toy that are attractively box packaged and are an ideal Christmas present for children 4-6 years of age.

Age Guide: 4+ Years Extent: 32 Pages (Hardback) ISBN: 9780984365173 Price: AU $37.95 Publisher: CCA & B P: 03 9762 9100 www.ccaandb.com

Like Get Ahead Kids on Facebook to Win! www.facebook.com/GetAheadKids With special thanks to CCA & B, Get Ahead Kids has one copy of The Elf on the Shelf gift set to giveaway!

Visit www.facebook.com/GetAheadKids and click the like button for a chance to win.

www.getaheadkids.com.au

33

Index

Article Themes 2012 January/February Back to School - Jessica Watson Ad Booking Deadline Nov 9, 2011 Editorial Deadline Nov 18, 2011

Advertisers Index Advanced Careers College

17

Allambi Youth Services Inc.

15

Andrew Smith Timber Creations

21

Australian Literacy Clinic Pty Ltd

17

Physical Education - Tiffiny Hall

Baby Ballerinas & Co

27

Ad Booking Deadline Feb 8, 2013

Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College

19

March/April

Editorial Deadline Feb 15, 2013

Cranbrook School 9

May/June

hey dee ho music 29

Family Chiropractic Centre Charlestown

21

Hog’s Breath Cafe Newcastle

2

Hunter Development Corporation

17

Hunter Food & Wine

36

Ad Booking Deadline Apr 5, 2013

Hunter Valley Grammar School

25

Editorial Deadline Apr 12, 2013

Hunter Wetlands Centre 19

Languages & Communications David Koch

I Can Read System

July/August

29

INParenting 29

Learning Innovations & Technology Ian Thorpe Ad Booking Deadline Jun 7, 2013 Editorial Deadline Jun 14, 2013

September/October

Irlen Diagnostic Clinic

15

Karrawong Kindy 21 KidsSmile 23 Learning Tactics Australia

13

Maitland Christian School

5

Mine Subsidence Board 7 NCP Printing 28

Study & Assessment - Kate Ceberano

Newcastle Family & Sports Podiatry

23

Ad Booking Deadline Aug 9, 2013

Newcastle Grammar School

26

Editorial Deadline Aug 16, 2013

Nit Busters

28

Reading Cinemas Charlestown

13

November/December

Rosie’s Closet 19

Summer Learning - Shannon Noll Ad Booking Deadline Oct 4, 2013 Editorial Deadline Oct 11, 2013 EDUC ATIN G

specialeyes OPTOMETRISTS 24 Sporty Kids 5 Wenona School 10

THE GO FAMI LIES ON

® Vol. 5 • No. 1

Schoolchoice.com.au 29

• Jan/Feb 2 013

For more advertising information please contact Maria Charlton | maria@mapmarketing.com.au | P: 02 4929 7766

Advertisers media kit & booking form at www.getaheadkids.com.au

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view wi

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Sailor

Celebrity Spotlight Watson Jessica Jessica Watson Australian Sailor

An Inter 2013 January/February AUD INC GST $6.60 Subscription

Back to School Issue out

December 2012 34 Get Ahead Kids® Nov/Dec 12

Reviews

Playbook Farm Author: Corrina Fletcher Illustrator: Britta Teckentrup

Ethics 101: Conversations to Have With Your Child

Spot What!

Author: Michael Parker

This is the perfect book for eye spy lovers! Each scene appears normal, but under the surface it is packed with random items and scenarios for readers to discover and search for!

While some pages may appear easy at first, readers will quickly discover the search items are hard to find and tucked away in the page.

This is the perfect book for young children interested in farms! The ingenious pop-up board book also folds out to a 3D play mat and comes with cut-outs including a tractor, a farmer and farmyard animals for kids to enjoy.

Ethics 101 aims to identify and develop parental and children’s attitudes to a variety of ethical issues including stealing, lying, death, animal rights, friendships, bullying and accepting cultural differences.

The mat folds away into its own carry box making it portable and easy to store on a bookshelf.

The approach is conversational, questioning, storytelling and aimed at clarifying and crystallising values, critical thinking and analyses.

Age Guide: 3+ Years Extent: Foldout Boardbook ISBN: 9780857631244 Price: AU $24.99 Publisher: Nosy Crow P: +44 (0)207 089 7575 www.nosycrow.com

Age Guide: Open Extent: 240 Pages (Paperback) ISBN: 9780987227515 Price: AU $24.95 Publisher: Jane Curry Publishing P: 02 9326 1452 www.janecurrypublishing.com.au

Author: Ripley Publishing

There are so many facts crammed into each page that readers will discover something new every time they open the book!

Age Guide: 8+ Years Extent: 256 Pages (Hardback) ISBN: 9781609910327 Price: AU $39.95 Publisher: Ripley Publishing P: 03 9524 4100 www.icewaterpress.com.au

This colourful and action filled book is sure to keep kids busy. At the back of the book there are extra lists of items that readers can search for and certain items that appear on every page.

Age Guide: 3+ Years Extent: 32 Pages (Hardback) ISBN: 9781743085400 Price: AU $12.99 Publisher: Hinkler Books P: 03 9552 1333 www.hinklerbooks.com

How can Marty and his friends make sure their parties are safe and fun for everyone?

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not: Download the Weird This book is full of weird, gross and incredible facts sure to keep readers horrified, amused and grossed out.

Authors: Nick Bryant & Rowan Summers

Marty’s Nut-Free Party Author: Katrina Roe Illustrator: Leigh Hedstrom Marty the monkey loves parties! He was always the first to arrive and the last to leave, but that was before he discovered that peanuts make him sick, really sick. Marty is allergic to peanuts and is not allowed to eat anything with peanuts in it anymore!

This book is ideal for helping to explain allergies to young children, and how they can still enjoy nut-free party food. There is also a helpful fact sheet for parents and teachers included at the back of the book.

Age Guide: 4+ Years Extent: 36 Pages (Hardback) ISBN: 9781921633362 Price: AU $19.95 Publisher: Wombat Books P: 07 3245 1938 www.wombatbooks.com.au

www.getaheadkids.com.au

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Order online www.hunterfoodandwine.com.au n Charlto Maria er Publish rketing MAP Ma 7766 29 .au 2 49 g.com + 61 (0) arketin mapm maria@

& Wine

Also available to buy from: MAP Marketing Villa Franca, 2 Scott St Newcastle NSW 2300 22/3/07

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