FREE
EDUCATING FAMILIES ON THE GO
Vol. 2 • No. 1 • Jan/Feb 2 010
®
An Interview with the
s n i b o R Mikey
• Is Your Child Ready for School? • New School, New Attitude • Live to Learn - Learn to Live • Degrees of Importance
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Jan/Feb 2010
Contents
This Month’s
F O R FA M I LI E S O N T HE G O
Spotlight
®
4
Editorial Your Letters
5
News Cinderella Pantomine
An Interview with Mikey Robins
6
An Interview with Mikey Robins Back to School 8
Get Ahead Kids® © MAP Marketing 2010 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.
Spotlight
Is Your Child Ready for School?
10
New School, New Attitude
12
Live to Learn - Learn to Live
14
Holiday Activities to Set the Stage for Learning
16
Degrees of Importance Health
18
Help! My Kids Have Nits
20
Dance Magic
22
Careers What is an Engineer?
24
People in Focus If Something is Worth Doing, it is Worth Doing Badly... Rather Than Not at All!
26
Business Buying Kids Clothing Online Reviews
28
New Laptop & Book Bag
29
Improved Safety for Car Restraints
30
News Camp to Belong
31
Activity Zone
32
Reviews
34
Advertisers Index
www.getaheadkids.com.au
3
Editorial The seventh edition of ‘Get Ahead
I commend to you, our back to school
Kids’ has been our most successful
articles that include issues such as
issue in terms of editorial contribution
school readiness, the transition to a
and advertising takeup.
new school and the importance of a
We plan to grow by increasing
university degree.
our digital copies. To achieve
To all families who are preparing kids
this objective we’ve undertaken
for a new educational experience,
an extensive social marketing
I wish you success in all your
campaign and welcomed on
endeavours.
board our readership partners INParenting, PCYC and I Can Read. We are taking on board only three additional reader partners.
Maria Charlton Managing Editor P: 02 4929 7766 maria@mapmarketing.com.au
Thank you Mikey Robins, for adding sunshine and joy to our celebrity interview feature.
I enjoyed the article about school
‘Holiday Learning for Preschoolers
readiness and the importance of
3-6 Years Old’ provides heaps of fun
play. Having a four year old whose
things that i can do with the kids on
birthday is in April, the argument
the weekends. I often struggle to
of sending to school or not has
find crafty and arty things to involve
began and any guidance is helpful.
the kids in and this list was a great
Reading your articles on this matter
idea.
helps out in our decision making. Thankyou. S. Rutherford, Mayfield
S. Bridagrt, Cardiff South
I loved ‘A Kids Healthy Christmas’ article. It’s so easy to give in to what
I found the Get Ahead Kids
is easiest rather than what is best
Magazine in my local Library and
for the health of our children when
found the article ‘What Should
we parents are under so much
My Child Be Doing Before Starting
Christmas stress, rush and pressure.
School?’ to be very informative
Thank you for reminding me what is
providing new ideas for entertaining
most important at this time - happy,
and extending my 15 month old
HEALTHY children.
daughters and ideas for the future. This is an article that I will keep and
K. Willis, Raymond Terrace
revisit at times. N. Dalziel, Dora Creek
Please send letters and stories with your name and contact details to: Get Ahead Kids® Villa Franca, 2 Scott St. Newcastle NSW 2300 F: 02 4929 7827 maria@mapmarketing.com.au
4
Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
News Left to right: David Grey as Buttons,
a l l e r e d in Pantomine C
Sandra Monk as the Fairy Godmother and Katie Wright as Cinderella.
Coming to Newcastle in January
This Cinderella will be slightly
2010 is the classic fairytale,
different; it is produced in the English
Cinderella.
pantomime tradition that originated
The production is being staged by Newcastle Theatre Company
in Greece but took off when it arrived on the English shores.
(NTC) and promises plenty of fun
Pantomimes are almost always
and interaction with lots of music
based on traditional children’s stories
and dance performed by a highly
and Cinderella is the most popular
experienced cast of local actors,
pantomime of them all.
singers and dancers.
The director, Arlene Richards, originally from England, is an expert on pantomime and a former Prince
The production of Cinderella comes
Charming herself! So it is only fitting
Using the modern facilities of the
complete with two very ugly step-
that she take on the challenge of
Hunter Theatre at the Hunter School
sisters; their equally nasty mother,
directing this mammoth task.
of Performing Arts, this extravaganza
the Baroness; and their hen-pecked
features special effects, dazzling
father, the Baron. We meet the
costumes, a top lighting design
beautiful Cinderella and her best
and music to delight all ages. The
friend Buttons.
production is sure to entertain both
You will see some local faces in the show including Tracy Ebbetts, Katie Wright, Brian Wark, Nicolette Black, Sandra Monk, Peter Bird, Stewart
Meanwhile the handsome Prince
McGowan and David Gubbay. The
and his servant Dandini have been
musical director is student Owen
NTC (previously Newcastle Repertory
told by his father, the Emperor, to find
Elsley. There will be over 50 people
Club) is a well respected company
a bride and bring the patter of tiny
on stage!
that has operated since 1957.
feet to the palace. A Ball is called
NTC normally performs for adult
and everyone in the Kingdom is
audiences in their 110 seat theatre in
determined to get a ticket, including
Cinderella Pantomine
De Vitre Street Lambton and are
Simple Simon; Mary Quite Contrary;
8th-23rd January 2010
busily building their new theatre next
and Old Mother Hubbard.
Hunter Theatre, Cameron St.
children and adults alike.
door to their current site.
More Information
Broadmeadow NSW Bookings: (02) 4952 4958
www.getaheadkids.com.au
5
Spotlight
Mikey Robins is one of Australia’s best loved, intelligent, hilarious and most in demand entertainers. His career in both radio and TV has led him to become one of the most recognisable faces and voices in the Australian entertainment history.
An Interview with
Mikey Robins
What are your thoughts on school
What are your thoughts on the
education?
media hype surrounding child
I would say school is the best place to get an education. What value do you see in a University Degree? There are two main benefits of a University Degree. Firstly, to achieve in whatever academic training that
week in the gym, which I’ve actually learnt to enjoy. Also cooking and I
kid back before it was an epidemic.
keep threatening to take up fishing.
You could say I was ahead of my
What was your first job?
time. You could also say I really didn’t like the gym.
Secondly, spending time with like
Newcastle High and Newcastle
minded people pursuing the same
University.
workmates are still people I met in and around Uni.
Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
days I spend a couple of hours a
picking on the fat kiddies, I was a fat
Where did you go to school?
Many of my best friends and
Is lunch a hobby? Actually these
It makes me hungry. Look stop
will benefit your future.
goals.
6
obesity?
What are your hobbies?
Please tell us about your family. I have been married for over ten years now to my wonderful and long suffering wife Laura.
I worked as a dish washer at a really posh restaurant. What are your career highlights? Seven years on Triple J doing breakfast as well as Good News Week also bits of writing for magazines like GQ and Men’s Style which although not lucrative are really enjoyable.
Spotlight
Left to right: The hosts of Good News Week, Claire Hooper, Paul McDermott and Mikey Robins.
What do you value most in life? Friendships. What is your most unforgettable personal experience? Probably losing over fifty kilos.
What is your best overseas
What advice would you give to
experience?
young aspiring comedians?
Gosh we love to travel but last year
Whatever you do, don’t listen to me.
a trip back to Hong Kong was our
More Information
best holiday ever.
www.mikeyrobins.com
The place has such an energising
What is your favourite Australian
vibe to it much like New York but the
destination and why?
food is much better.
Port Douglas - it’s relaxed, the diving is fantastic as is the fishing.
SCHOLARSHIPS
FOR 2011
ACADEMIC, MUSIC, VISUAL ARTS
All scholarships take the form of remission of School fees APPLICATIONS CLOSE
23 MARCH 2010
APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE
ONLINE
Newcastle Grammar School p: (02) 4929 5811
w: ngs.nsw.edu.au
www.getaheadkids.com.au
7
Is Your Child Ready For
School?
By Dr. Jane Williams
Lots of children move into school
that indicates that nearly 26%
these areas simply by undertaking
apparently ready for the challenges
of preschool children have
a daily movement and sensory
that learning brings.
developmental problems that put
program.
But are you aware that up to 30% of children in our classrooms are not?
them at risk of learning difficulties at school.
But you don’t have to wait until your child is attending school. Give
A research study undertaken by
your baby, toddler and preschooler
Toddler Kindy GymbaROO, Tim
lots of opportunity to stimulate
Mirabella and the Hastings Shire
their brain through movement,
Council in Victoria (2007) showed
sensory stimulation and activities
that children with literacy, numeracy
and they will be one of the 60%
This has been backed up by a
and behaviour difficulties in their
developmentally ready for school
large Western Australia study
early school years improved in all of
on the day they start. Now wouldn’t
I believe that this is because children are not developmentally ready for the higher-order cognitive skills that academic learning demands.
that be great?
Warners Bay (02) 4920 8033
8
Newcastle (02) 4955 9256
Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
Maitland 1300 557 217
Central Coast Gosford (02) 4339 1894 (02) 4353 7765
Back to School
By The Time Your Child Is Of School Age
❑❑ Your child should have good conceptual awareness - this is
❑❑ Your child’s brain must be able to sort out and organise the sensory information coming into the brain from body - this enables a child to be able to visualise. Visualisation is needed to follow instructions; read, understand and write stories;
required for the understanding of concepts - up/down, in/out, and space/time awareness required for organisational skills
Dr. Jane Williams is a Director and
in the classroom, writing letters
General Manager for Research
and numerals, skipping and
and Education, Toddler Kindy
timing events such as catching
GymbaROO and Adjunct Senior
or hitting a ball.
Lecturer at the School of Nursing,
recognise and spell words;
❑❑ Your child should have good
remember words to songs,
visual skills - focusing, eye
follow a rhythm; understand
teaming, distance calculations,
mathematical concepts. Poor
near to far and back again,
sensory organisation also affects
visual ability, convergence and
behaviour, concentration and
peripheral vision. Learning to use
organisational skills.
their eyes in these ways enables
❑❑ Your child must be lateralised this means your child has developed a preferred hand, necessary to know with which
reading, word recognition and many other visual skills in the
Midwifery & Nutrition, James Cook University.
More Information Rob Sasse Toddler Kindy GymbaROO P: 03 9817 3544 office@gymbaroo.com.au www.gymbaroo.com.au
classroom. ❑❑ Your child should have social
hand they write! It also enables
and emotional skills that enable
your child to independently
them to cope with busy and
use both sides of the body, be
noisy classrooms, to work in
able to cross the midline of the
groups and to understand and
body and have good hand-
follow instructions. Children who
eye coordination skills. These
are not emotionally ready for
are essential requirements for
the challenges of the classroom
reading, writing and playing
may withdraw from activity
sports successfully.
or, conversely start to behave inappropriately.
Is Your Child Reaching Their Milestones? BOOK NOW for Jan/Feb 2010 Speech & Language Assessments Ph: 1300 657 220 enquiries@getaheadlearning.com.au www.getaheadlearning.com.au East Maitland |Charlestown |Nelson Bay
Babies and children often look a little bent over in a jelly bean or banana shape. Sometimes this is the only sign of physical restrictions in the body. Other babies and children will present with a concern over: • Difficult delivery • Sleeping • Settling
• Feeding • Ear infections • Persistent tonsilitis
• Slow to crawl or walk • Awkward running style
Osteopaths make the body work better with gentle hands on techniques. Kim Wheeler, Bianca Oehme, Eleanor Fernon University trained, Registered Osteopaths, AOA Members
www.getaheadkids.com.au
9
Back to School
New School,
New Attitude By Shaunna Privratsky
The first day of school looms and
❑❑ Missing old friends. It is always
❑❑ Not enough energy to get
your child already feels anxious.
hard to lose friends, but you can
everything done. Eating regular
Your family might have moved,
make an effort to cultivate new
meals with lots of nutrition may
transferred, started at a brand new
friendships. Something as simple
not sound like fun, but it will fuel
school, started high school, or just
as being partners in science or
your body for the day. Avoid too
moved up a grade. The classes
sitting together at lunch can
many sugary snacks that give
are different, the rules might have
lead to new friendships.
you a quick boost, but drain you
changed and the homework is harder. Whatever the reason, you just know that your child is stressed out.
❑❑ Worried that no one will like you. Everyone has the same
later when you get a drop in blood sugar.
insecurities. If you make the first
A better snack is one that
move, the other person will most
mixes up the food pyramid; for
Many factors can lead to stress
likely be relieved and respond
instance, some peanut butter
at school. Here are some of the
enthusiastically.
on crackers with milk, yogurt
common reasons and ways to overcome them: ❑❑ Being in an unfamiliar
❑❑ Nervous about all the extra homework. When you are assigned many projects, it can
environment. We are all scared
be overwhelming. Break it up
of the unknown. As things
into doable tasks. The more
become familiar, the fear and
organised you are with your
stress will disappear.
study habits, the easier it will
and a granola cereal bar, mini pizzas, tuna melt on a tortilla, grilled cheese sandwich, or fruit, crackers and cheese with a smoothie.
become.
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Find the inner magic Experience joy & laughter Deal with emotions Make great friends 5 x 2-Hour Sessions Weekends & School Holidays 1300 251 575 www.freetobeme.com.au
10 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
Back to School ❑❑ Being bullied or harassed by
❑❑ Stay in touch with old friends.
other students. This is frightening
You can keep your old friends by
and we sometimes think we
staying in contact and maybe
should handle it on our own.
introduce your new friends.
The best defenses are; telling someone, avoid reacting and standing up for yourself without becoming physical. Most schools have lots of coping strategies for bullying, so don’t suffer in silence. Here are some other ways to make life easier at your new school: ❑❑ Get involved. Join an activity
❑❑ Plan something to look forward to. You might make special plans for the weekend like seeing a movie with friends or relaxing at home. Anticipating something fun can help you get through a tough week at school.
Easy, permanent, cost effective identification for schoolwear, workwear and sportswear. RED, BLUE or BLACK lettering woven into white tags. P: 02 9699 8805 E: fireband@bigpond.com www.wovenlabelsdirect.com.au
or another problem, it may be helpful to talk to a trusted friend or family member. Other times, you
way to make friends, since
may be more comfortable talking
they share similar interests. You
to someone who is not so close to
could pick sports, music, student
the situation. They might be able to
council, speech or debating or
give you a different perspective and
other clubs and activities that
some coping strategies. This could
your school offers.
be your school counsellor, school
when you make the first move,
WOVEN NAME TAGS
If you are still struggling with stress
that interests you. This is a great
❑❑ Breaking the ice. Just like
H IT E J E S S IC A W
nurse, a teacher or other counsellor trained to help young people cope
Shaunna Privratsky is a full-time author with two teenage children.
with stress.
More Information
school can help you break out
Give your child time to adjust to
of old cliques and make new
all the changes a new school year
Shaunna Privratsky
friends. Ignoring broad labels
brings. Life will start to get easier as
can help you become a more
he or she becomes more familiar
likeable person and more open
with the school’s routine and makes
minded
new friends. If you have a positive
interacting with anyone at
shaunnawrites@msn.com http://shaunna67.tripod.com/id21.html
attitude your child’s school days are bound to be more pleasurable.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2011 Scholarship applications are available for entry in 2011. Academic Scholarships Years 5 -11 Music Scholarships Years 5-11 Visual Arts Scholarships Years 9-11 Applications close Friday 9 April, 2010. Academic Scholarship Exams held on Saturday 8 May, 2010. Apply on-line at www.hvgs.nsw.edu.au or for further information please contact the school's Registrar.
H U N T E R VA L L E Y G R A M M A R S C H O O L Norfolk St Ashtonfield NSW 2323 P • 4934 2444 F • 4934 2404 E • registrar@hvgs.nsw.edu.au W • www.hvgs.nsw.edu.au
www.getaheadkids.com.au
11
Back to School
Live to Learn - Learn to Live By Dorte Bladt
Mick came in to see me at my
There are a couple of issues in this
Interestingly, this type of studying
chiropractic office a few months
scenario. One is to make the best for
and working will result in very poor
back. He had just finished his HSC
Mick in the short run, since the HSC
long term memory of the material
trials, and he was a very unhappy
was only a few weeks away. The
you are cramming. Research has
chappie.
other is to try to prevent ending up in
shown that to convert the studied
that same predicament again.
information from short term memory
“I studied very hard up to my trials,
to usable long term memory, we
staying up late and reading well
As the school year is about to start,
into the night. I was so stressed, and
let’s begin with the big picture first:
I really don’t think I have done very
Life is so busy! There are so many
Amazing things happen when we
well. Can you please help me so
things which need to be done, that
rest and sleep; our bodies heal and
I can concentrate better when I
we want to do, that we have to
renew and our brains sort and filter
study for the HSC?” This sounds so
get done; school assessments, tests,
the sensory input, as in what we
familiar doesn’t it? Whether it is trials,
quizzes, homework.
hear, see, read, feel, do and then
tests or projects at work, we all tend to procrastinate until we can’t any longer, and then cram at the end, knowing we will not perform at our best.
Methods Are Safe, Natural & They Work!
On top of that are all the other important things in life such as family, friends, work, exercise, relaxation, rest, spirituality... So the start of the
store it appropriately for future use. So to be able to recall and use information in the right context we have to have more time to digest it.
year, before the routine sets in is a
Sometimes it is very helpful to do
great time to sit down and ponder
a repetitive movement while you
how we best fulfil all our needs
are trying to remember something,
and wants. Try to make a schedule
because the movement activates
where all these aspects are figured
other pathways in the brain, which
in.
basically means that you will
If you work Monday and Tuesday after school and have maths on • Exam stress & relaxation
need to have ‘down time’.
remember information both as a kinesthetic memory and a recall.
Wednesday, you will need to
For example, if you have to do
schedule in some time to study
times tables, spelling words, French
• Neck & back problems
maths maybe on the weekend,
irregular verbs or other rote memory,
• Variety of organic & systemic problems
because Wednesday morning will
try skipping while you say them
probably not be an option.
out loud. When you then have to
P: 02 4942 4842 2 Lincoln Street, Charlestown frontdesk@familychiropracticcharlestown.com.au
Family Chiropractic Centre Charlestown
Perform at your Peak www.familychiropracticcharlestown.com.au
12 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
If you have a big project due in week 7, schedule in some time to work on it for weeks prior to the due date, otherwise something else will have to give as you feverishly try to get it done at the last moment.
remember them in class or at a test and find it difficult, if you visualise you skipping, you will access your memory from a different perspective and the information will come back to you.
Back to School Regular exercise helps increase the
were affecting his concentration,
blood flow and therefore oxygen
attention and memory. The same
to the brain, which will help you
misalignment was responsible for
study more effectively. Exercise
the headaches he had suffered
has also been shown to increase
occasionally since a young child.
the hormone BDNF (brain derived
Misalignments in the spine can
neurotropin factor) which makes
affect the way the nerve system is
new nerve tissue. So if you can’t
working, and since the brain and
concentrate, prioritise your time;
nerve system control the function of
go for a brisk 15 minute walk, then
all cells, organs and systems in the
return to the desk and get the work
body, it is not hard to understand
done.
how Mick had not performed at his
The food you consume is also very
Woodrising Community Preschool & Childcare Centre. 80 Haydenbrook Rd Woodrising, NSW 2284 P: (02) 4950 4212 | F: (02) 4959 4365 info@woodrisingchildcare.com.au
best.
important. Studying can be hard
So Mick received some specific,
and boring, and we often feel the
very gentle and comfortable
need for a ‘wake up’ nibble. We
chiropractic care, to which he
We both look forward to seeing how
generally will go for a sugar hit
responded very well. We helped
it all went. However, what would
because it gives us a short burst
him draw up a study plan, where
have been a lot better, would have
of energy. Unfortunately, after 15
he included time for exercise, work
been to have started this journey at
minutes, we get a sugar low, where
and fun as well. We discussed how
the start of the year, which is what I
we will feel tired and lethargic, so
to include some better choices for
am going to urge you to do today!
this is totally counterproductive.
study foods: water, nuts and fruit,
Standing up and walking to the
and lastly, we showed Mick how to
More Information
sink for a glass of water is the way
do some brain stimulating exercises,
to go; both will stimulate the brain
which he should do every day and
Dorte Bladt
into a more productive brain wave
especially if he felt he struggled with
pattern.
concentration.
Let’s return to Mick, who obviously
Mick has done very well for these
P: 02 4942 4842
had a very short term pressing
past few months. He felt much more
www.familychiropracticcharlestown.com.au
issue. When we examined him
prepared for his HSC than for the
chiropractically, we found that he
trials and he felt he performed so
had misalignments in his spine which
much better.
Teachers Aides play a critical part in supporting the classroom teacher with children with additional needs.
|
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Gain Your Teachers Aide Qualification in ONE Year
Course includes supporting reading, behaviour management, communication & using specialist resources. 1300 660 063
Doctor of Chiropractic
Enrolment: Rolling enrolment! Enroll anytime! Time: Day Class - 10:00am - 1:00pm Evening Class - 6.30pm - 8.30pm Duration: 1 day or evening per week + distance education study + workplace experience Certification: CHC30808 Certificate III in Education Support Venue: ICCC,146 Lambton Rd, Broadmeadow Cost: $200.00 per unit
info@childcarecollege.com.au
|
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www.getaheadkids.com.au
13
Back to School
Holiday Activities to Set the Stage for
L E AR N I N G
The long Christmas holidays mean
For holiday activities to be
additional investments for childcare,
educational, they need to be
time and cost of keeping young
experiential and involve children on
children entertained in a meaningful
an emotional level to develop:
way. Holiday activities planned on the run and under pressure can be taxing on your nerves and expensive on your purse.
• Literacy skills • Physical strength • Fine motor skills • Social skills • Music & movement
10 to Giveaway!
These same holiday activities can be less expensive if purchased in advance or as part of a group.
Thanks to Australian Reptile Park, Get Ahead Kids have 10 Family Passes to The Australian Reptile Park to give away (Valued at $60 each). Each family pass allows entry for 2 adults and 2 children (3-15 years). For your chance to win visit www.getaheadkids.com.au follow the giveaway link and fill in your details.
14 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
Planned holiday activities are also more likely to be fun and educational.
Checklist ❑❑ Play Pretend Games Pretend games help to develop kids’ social skills, emotional stamina, creativity and discipline.
Many activities may have a nil cost,
Let them dress up as a favourite
for example a picnic in the park, trek
character! Let them pretend they
in the bush or day at the beach.
are mum or dad, a pirate, a zoo animal, their favourite superhero,
Daily holiday routine needs to be
an astronaut, a train driver,
planned to prevent boredom and
school teacher or doctor.
create an air of excitement for parents and kids.
Back to School
❑❑ Enjoy Craft Activities
❑❑ Outdoor Activities
School readiness skills can easily
It is important to build up
be fostered with colouring
physical stamina by keeping kids
in, spot the difference, word
healthy and active with outdoor
searches, drawing, join the dot
activities. There are numerous
and counting activities. There
options including swimming
are numerous craft books in
and surfing, martial arts, tennis,
supermarkets to make this task
throwing frisbees, shoveling dirt,
easier.
building sandcastles, racing,
❑❑ Use Rhymes, Song & Music
water play, planting seeds and plants, blowing bubbles, making
Young children love nursery
a bird feeder, skateboarding and
rhymes and songs, so make sure
bike riding.
you plan for these. Singing helps kids to develop better awareness of rhythm, rhyme, words and sounds. ❑❑ Cook with Children
❑❑ Keep a Scrapbook of Holiday Activities Buy a scrapbook and fill this up with memories such as tickets, brochures, leaves, flowers,
Children of all ages love to cook
sea shells, photos and other
and recipes are great resources
memento of the daily holiday
for following instructions, science,
activities.
fractions, and a sense of accomplishment. Mixing, stirring, and pouring are enjoyable
xplore and experience the rich maritime history of Newcastle and the Hunter river, and learn about the Ports importance to the development of Australia. This innovative, world class Maritime Centre with the port as its backdrop, will transport you via a series of exciting interactive exhibits into the story of our harbour and the people and events.
More Information www.raisingchildren.net.au
ways to develop the agility and strength that are prerequisites for
26568
writing.
www.getaheadkids.com.au
15
Back to School
Degrees
of Importance This is a time of unparalleled growth
When he retired from the Wharton
According to results from a new
of students in Australian higher
School in 1986, Professor Russell
study of student engagement
education. University applications
Ackoff was cynical about the
released by the Australian Council
2009 have grown by 5.6% per cent -
contributions of a university
for Educational Research (ACER), a
the largest increase since 2002.
business education. Amongst other
third of Australian and New Zealand
The number of students in higher
things, he alleged that a business
university students seriously consider
education grew to 1,066,095 in 2008.
education gave students the
leaving their institutions before
vocabulary to help them speak
graduation.
Despite these escalating student numbers, some argue that most university degrees are totally
with authority on things they did not understand.
The Australasian Survey of Student Engagement (AUSSE) reports that
irrelevant to the job environment
A degree improves occupational
this figure is underestimated as it
and may be a futile exercise in
status and income only if students
excludes students who have already
memorising facts. This viewpoint
choose the right courses. Research
discontinued their studies.
is supported by the large number
indicates that graduates in arts and
of students graduating in subjects
humanities subjects had among
totally unrelated to their job
the lowest earnings upon gaining
aspirations.
employment.
Others argue that a university
On the other hand accountancy
students reported that they are
degree is a piece of paper that may
graduates were earning about 40%
most likely to depart prior to degree
help students get a job because
more than them over the course of
completion.
it demonstrates the effort and
their lifetime.
determination required to get the paper degree.
16 Get Ahead Kids速 Jan/Feb 10
Science and agriculture students are the most likely to remain engaged through to graduation. Architecture, education and creative arts
Back to School The Graduate Pathways Survey,
Research conducted by ACER
conducted by ACER for the
backs up anecdotal evidence,
Department of Education,
revealing that the average university
Employment and Workplace
graduate earns 30% more than to
Relations, canvassed more than
someone with no tertiary education
9,000 bachelor degree graduates
or training.
five years into their careers and highlighted some key relationships between degrees and employment. This study highlighted that most bachelor degree graduates (about 90%) are in employment five years after completing their studies. Three quarters of graduates are in full-time work.
Tertiary education has a stronger effect on graduate incomes than socioeconomic background or ethnicity. The benefits of completing a degree are likely to be greater during an economic downturn, as employers are more inclined to use educational attainments as a
Undertaking paid work whilst
way of screening potential staff in a
studying for a degree has a positive
competitive labour market.
impact in developing graduate capabilities and vocational outcomes.
And all these go to indicate there are numerous degrees of importance in gaining a university
Men were more likely than women to participate in the workforce after five years of completing a degree. About 84% of males had full-time
degree!
More Information www.acer.edu.au
work compared with 69% of females.
Yrs 5&6
Success Roc ks!
Selective School Preparation 83% Student Success for 2010 Intake
According to this research, males earn around $7,800 more per year than females in the fifth year after graduation. Likely reasons for this
P: 4942 3000 | M: 0431 739 400 arrendell@iprimus.com.au www.arrendell.com.au
gender gap include the higher proportions of young women in part time work and gender differences in types of jobs.
Don’t educate half your child! St Philip’s Christian College gives your child the best start for the whole of their life. We help uncover their God-given potential by providing a quality education in a supportive and truly caring Christian environment.
ENROL TODAY
1300 00 7722
www.spcc.nsw.edu.au
Campuses at Newcastle, Port Stephens, Cessnock and Gosford.
Leaders in Whole of Life Education
www.spcc.nsw.edu.au www.getaheadkids.com.au
17
Help!
My Kids H
ave Nits
By Marzia Bettini, Full-time Working Mum.
The holidays have been great... no broken arms or illness. It has been weeks and weeks of fun and mayhem. Finally, the kids are back at school. I barely get to the office when the call arrives “This is
FREE L A T I G I D N O I T I D E FREE
the school nurse. I’m very sorry to inform you, but you need to pick up your kids. They have a head lice infestation” I reel in horror. My kids? Head lice? I’m a clean mother! My house is spotless! We’ve all been there...
Vol. 2 • No. 1 • Jan/Feb 10
Here are some facts that may help you understand, prevent and deal with the ever dramatic and persistent issue of nits. Although these sound revolting; tiny little parasitic insects that crawl around on human heads, feed on small amounts of blood that they draw from the scalp. They are truly a very common problem for kids of all ages, but are
18 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
Some Facts • Lice are wingless, light to dark brown, with 6 hairy legs & all they can do is crawl • Head lice only live on human hair • They live happily in clean or dirty hair • They love everyone regardless of income level • They pose no health risk but can cause bacterial infections • Head lice transfer comes mainly from head to head contact • Head lice treatments may not kill all of the head lice • Lice lay eggs called nits, which are tiny brown/white flecks that can be mistaken for dandruff • Lice cannot be combed out as they stick to the hair shaft close to the scalp • Nymphs are juvenile lice & it only
especially prevalent for 3 -12 year
takes two weeks for them to
olds.
mature & lay their own eggs
Health
Checklist for Preventing Head lice
Head lice Quiz 1. You must tie long hair up when
❑❑ Keep long hair tied & stop kids
in contact with other children
from playing with each other’s
q True
hair ❑❑ Avoid sharing brushes & combs
2. Head lice can jump form head to head
❑❑ Wash out brushes & combs in hot water or medicated shampoo
Treatment Methods
❑❑ Instruct kids not share headbands & hats at school
• Chemical treatment use pesticides that kill the head lice. Over the counter preparations that you can purchase from chemists contain chemicals, which can kill head lice & their nits. Because the nits are encased in a shell, these may not all die at the same time.
q True
the nape of the neck and behind the ears
contact
q True
❑❑ Check regularly for head lice &
if you have head lice
❑❑ Wash bed linen, bed clothes, bed toys & towels in hot water
q True
are gone.
q False
5. You don’t need to wash or dry-clean items that have come
involves saturating the hair with with a nit comb until all the nits
q False
4. It’s OK to share hats and brushes
itching
washable
conditioner & combing through
q False
3. Head lice are usually found in
❑❑ Avoid direct head-to-head
❑❑ Dry-clean items that aren’t
• The conditioner method
q False
in contact with head lice
More Information
q True
www.health.act.gov.au
q False
Answers: 1. T, 2. F, 3. T, 4. F, 5. F
y that’s wh LE O MAURIE M HAS A
Putting service and the needs of people first.
82524
Old mines and potholes can be dangerous! If you see a hole, don’t think you’re a mole, walk in the opposite direction and report your detection.
24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE PHONE 1800 248 083 www.minesub.nsw.gov.au
www.getaheadkids.com.au
19
Health
Dance
c i g Ma
Throughout history, people have
Edel Quin, Lucy Frazer and Emma
used dance to express emotions,
Redding research on “The Health
tell stories, treat illness, develop
Benefits of Creative Dance”
group bonds, celebrate life events,
UK (2007) indicated that creative
promote health, and communicate
dance increases the physical
with the divine.
and psychological well-being of
Nowadays, there are numerous
adolescents.
different types of dance styles
Research conducted by the
available to kids and their parents
University of Maryland (Horin 2008)
including rock n roll, jive, modern
showed that about 60% of kids aged
dance, ballet, tap and jazz.
from 9-12 led a balanced life with
Various research studies have attested to the physical, psychological, social, artistic and health benefits of the dance.
involvement in one or two activities, such as music lessons or a drama class. Kids not involved in any of these activities were shown to be relatively less socially mature and had a lower self-esteem.
Baby Ballerinas is a unique pre-school dance program for 3-5 year old girls. It guides them through creative imagery and develops an appreciation of rhythm & timing, music, movement, grace, gross motor & social skills. Free Trial Classes • Morning Classes • Parents Able to Observe Classes. Baby Jazz is ideal class for boys and girls 3-5 years Central School of Dance is for kids 6 years and after & provides RAD based exams and Eisteddfod Oakdale Studios, Unit 4, 9 Oakdale Rd, Gateshead NSW 2290 Ph/Fx: 02 4948 2953 • www.babyballerinas.com.au
20 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
Health
Flair
Fun & Fitness
Physical
Social
On a purely physical level dancing
Dancing has a broad range of social
improves health, well-being,
benefits including improved body
co-ordination, and muscle tone. It
image, self-esteem, discipline and
also enhances the cardiovascular
communication skills. It reduces
system and strengthens the bones.
stress, fears and lessens the feeling
Young dancers develop a sense of
of isolation. Group choreography
balance; improve agility, posture,
fosters teamwork, trust and
poise and co-ordination.
co-operation.
Psychological
Artistic
Research indicates that mental
Moving creatively encourages
and emotional problems are often
self-expression, movement and
held in the body, in the form of
opens up new ways of thinking and
muscle tension and constrained
doing things. Other dance benefits
movements. Dancing relieves
include; it sparks imagination and
muscle stiffness, reduces anxiety,
develops creativity. Involving kids
chronic pain and depression. It has
in dance trains them in the basic
been demonstrated as the only
elements of creative movement,
physical activity to improve brain
including timing and rhythm.
function.
Health The Mayo Clinic researchers indicated that dancing helps to reduce stress, increase energy, ���������������������� ������������������ ����� ����� ������������������ ������������� ��������������� ������������������������ ������������������ ���������������������������� ������������������ ����������� ������������������������������������
improve strength, increase muscle tone and co-ordination. All forms of dancing can help lower heart disease, stabilise blood pressure, help to control weight and improve your sense of wellbeing.
More Information www.challengestadium.wa.gov.au
Cheerleading Breakdance Cabaret Hip Hop Modern Swing Ballet Latin Funk Jazz
Rock ‘n’ Roll Mummy & Me
HEADQUARTERS
East Maitland & Cessnock Moblie: 0417 674 420 p.cramp1@bigpond.com
to arnto Dance eLike LLearn & Rock Swintheg Stars Dance classes in Swing & 1950’s Style Rock ‘n’ Roll for students, school groups & adults. Principal, Gary Haigh, is a professional member of Australian Rock ‘n’ Roll Dancesport Council. Recognised by the Australian Dance Board as the only accredited Rock ‘n’ Roll teacher in the Hunter. p All Shook U 4 647 M. 0412 11 30 1076 A.H. (02) 49 et.com.au okup@optusn ho lls ea nc da u .a om .c okup www.allsho
www.getaheadkids.com.au
21
Careers
What is an
Engineer ?
An engineer is essentially a problem solver, an inventor and a designer. Engineers use science and technology as tools for solving problems. Engineers identify a problem or need then seek information before brainstorming solutions. They then design and create components or products before testing to reach a solution. If needed, adjustments are made to make a product useable.
What Do Engineers Do? Engineers use mathematics and science to design, build, create, maintain and improving
Engineering is made up of many different disciplines. The disciplines offered at the University of Newcastle include:
components from the latest high
• Chemical Engineering
tech materials, to bridges and cars.
• Civil Engineering
Engineers are behind the science of most areas of modern life. Some types of engineers are involved in the maintenance, testing and quality improvement of existing technologies. Other types of
• Computer Engineering • Computer Science • Electrical Engineering • Environmental Engineering • Mechanical Engineering
engineers are involved in the design
• Mechatronics Engineering
and creation of new products and
• Mining Engineering
technologies.
• Software Engineering • Surveying • Telecommunications Engineering
22 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
Careers
Engineering in Our Lives The work of an Engineer is used by us every day and we come across engineering everyday in our lives. The toothpaste tube you use is very carefully engineered. The wizbang toothbrush you smear your toothpaste onto was engineered, and there are new innovations for those coming out all the time. When you cook toast in the morning, the toaster was engineered. Even the bread is engineered to increase the life of the food and ensure it stays fresh and free from bacteria for as long as possible. These days many engineers are employed to find better and more energy efficient ways to do things. They are trying to make electricity that doesn’t cause as much pollution as it currently does. They are also trying to find ways to dispose of waste that won’t poison the planet or spread disease.
Engineering offers a whole range
Engineers MAKE IT SO
of options and career choices. Because it is such a vast and complex field, it gives you the opportunity to specialise in an area that interests you. Few career paths offer such exciting and rewarding opportunities like engineering.
• Jets fly faster • There is less pollution • We have amazing robots • We can travel to outer space • Formula 1 cars go faster
More information www.newcastle.edu.au
MAKE IT SO I can be an engineer. Visit www.makeitso.org.au
LEADER IN AGRICULTURAL TRAINING Courses in Agriculture & Horse Husbandry Practical experiences on the Tocal commercial farms Large number of student scholarships available
Enrol for 2010 visit www.tocal.com P: 1800 025 520 www.getaheadkids.com.au
23
People in Focus
If Something is Worth Doing,
it is Worth Doing Badly…
Rather Than Not at All! By Natalie Burgess
These words still strike a chord with
The situation was an examination
On my final attempt I was eventually
me. My name is Natalie Burgess and
due to be sat-a two hour paper
able to speak to my professor at the
I had an experience a few years
as part of completing my BA with
University of New England. She told
ago that led me to use this advice
distance learning at the University
me that notification had been sent
when I would have least expected
of New England. I assumed the
out advising that the venue for the
to do so.
exam was to be conducted at the
examination had changed and was
usual venue, St.. John’s College
now at a club in Lambton. I asked
in Maitland only to find the venue
her if I could be granted some extra
Confused by your Career Options?
locked.
time but the response from her was
I could find was a groundkeeper,
I just had to make my way as quickly
Secure Employment in Marketing, Advertising, Real Estate, Hospitality, Tourism, Legal, Events, Human Resources, Public Relations, Business &/or Administration
who said there were no
as possible to the correct venue.
I looked around and the only person
examinations planned for that day. I didn’t know what to do.
Call 4926 1577
www.passmores.com.au
Lambton is a good 30 minutes away from Maitland so with no further
I had arrived early but the time was
ado I jumped into my car and got
already nine o’clock - the time for
there as fast as I could. On arrival at
the start of the exam.
the examination room after parking
I did not have my mobile with me
Enrol For 2010
a kindly, “Unfortunately not”.
so I had to jump into the car and look for a payphone. I found one at the local Post Office and started desperately to contact anyone who could assist me.
my car I noted to my horror that one hour forty five minutes of the allocated two hours for the paper had been lost. Five minutes reading time then I was left with ten minutes to complete a two hour paper. In all but blind panic my mind sped back to the days when I was a student at Passmores’ Business and Management College.
24 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
People in Focus
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 580 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 The wise words of the Principal,
hard work, I had been a distinction
Duncan Passmore, rang in my ears.
student thus far. I thought this was
“If something is worth doing, it’s
going to be my first fail. I opened
worth doing badly...rather than not
the result and, believe it or not, I had
at all”. And, secondly, “In an exam,
earned a ‘Pass’ for my efforts.
if you have no time and several tasks to complete it is better to do a little of each question than miss out any task completely”. So although there were three questions requiring lengthy answers my modus operandi was to inform the marker that I knew what I was talking about. So my random thoughts were splattered down onto the paper as quickly as they could be - as bullet points, allowing five minutes for each. As I penned the last bullet point
The end result was a credit average towards my degree for the subject Tourism and Recreational Leisure. From time to time I still mentally revisit the wisdom learned at Passmores’ about exam techniques a little prone to anxiety and panic attacks I bear testimony to the words “If something is worth doing,
Distance Learning Business Courses
then it is indeed worth doing badly, rather than not at all”.
More Information Passmores’ Business & Management
announced, “time”.
College
how would I score? Would I fail
Want to Improve Skills?
and life in general. As one who is
on the last question the examiner
I had finished the exercise; but
75-81 Chelmsford Drive Metford NSW 2323
P: 4926 1577 www.passmores.com.au
Short Courses
Keyboarding, Word, Excel & PowerPoint Call 4926 1577
www.passmores.com.au
dismally? I had to wait. It was a long two months before I got the result. Fortunately, due to a bit of
www.getaheadkids.com.au
25
Business
s e h t o l C s d Buying Ki
e n i l n O
Now, more so than ever before,
As kids get grubby and dirty more
families are budgeting for kids
often, buying in bulk makes great
clothing. Buying kids clothes online
sense! An additional drawcard is
means families can buy unique
that kids clothing fashions are fairly
clothes that look better and last
constant, which means that you can
longer.
buy more in different sizes especially
More and more parents are part of
if clothes are in neutral shades.
the growing online buying trend for
Some argue that kids don’t really
kids clothing because this buying
require fashion clothing at such a
method is faster, more convenient
young age! But a close look at kids
and cost effective.
websites show that these can be
Modern mums are time poor and no longer have the luxury of travelling
bought at discount prices if you know where to look.
from store to store. As well as saving
One of the best sites for finding
time, mums want to save money
discounted kids clothing is
on petrol, parking, and those
www.ozsale.com.au. This online
unplanned purchases to appease
business ships anywhere in Australia
demanding kids.
and replenishes its offerings on a
In isolated country areas, mums find it difficult to get to shops. But, with the introduction of online shopping and home delivery, country kids can look trendy and chic, dressed in latest fashions.
daily basis. But, if you want to get the best deals, you need to visit online sites early in the morning every day. New items come in every morning and these don’t last for long. Before embarking on your online adventure please take a little time to get planned and informed on online shopping.
26 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
Buying Online Checklist ❑❑ Make a list of what you want to buy, the sizes & colours ❑❑ Set yourself a budget ❑❑ Shop in sites with secure payment facilities ❑❑ Buy from reputable online sites ❑❑ Use sites that are easy to navigate ❑❑ Spend in sites with a simple checkout process ❑❑ Ensure that before, during & after sale communication is clear ❑❑ Online sites need to state shipping & the costs of shipping ❑❑ Check returns policy
More Information www.shopsafe.com.au
Business
Get Ahead Kids Partners
BMM UIBU JT */ GPS 1BSFOUJOH
A real parenting website portal, by parents for parents. Share your stories, experiences, or simply read some helpful hints.
www.getaheadkids.com.au
27
Reviews
New
Laptop & Book Bag
Created with students in mind, the
It has been designed to drape
fLAPTOP is a laptop and book bag
across the body leaving your hands
that is ideal for teenagers, business
free. The weight is spread across the
executives, travellers and mums who
upper torso and hip which makes
want to combine work files and a
it very comfortable to wear. The
handbag in one bag.
fLAPTOP can also be carried over
Launched in 2009, the fLAPTOP
the shoulder and by the handgrip.
comes in five vibrant colours of
The innovator of the fLAPTOPs has a
Daffodil Yellow, Hot Pink, Lime
background in business and event
Green, Chocolate Brown and
management as well as home
Orange.
styling.
Mrs Sally Gulson, the entrepreneur
More Information
and developer for the fLAPTOP, explains;
Sally Gulson M: 0408 443908
“My four sons who are at high school
E: sally@flaptops.com
or university had boring black laptop
www.flaptopbags.com
bags. These black bags were on the minus scale in ‘uber’ cool. Our research and testimonials
Special School Offer!
demonstrate that the fLAPTOPs fill the market gap for funky laptop
The laptop program for the
bags.
public schools in 2010,
My boys even use their fLAPTOPs when they take their Wii games or Nintendo DS to their friends’ houses! I used mine on a recent holiday to Tasmania-it was great for plane travel.” The fLAPTOP is a spacious and functional laptop and book bag
fLAPTOP
that easily accommodates laptops, accessories, books and personal effects. They are also sturdy, comfortable to wear and aesthetic!
28 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
www.flaptopbags.com offers the fLAPTOPs to schools at a Special Price of $45.00. Also this company supports the school fundraisers with 10% of sales being donated back to the school. To organise a fundraiser or place an order at the Special School Price of $45.00 just send Sally an email sally@flaptops.com and mention “Get Ahead Kids”
Reviews
Improved
Safety
for Car Restraints As car accidents are the number one cause of children’s deaths, car safety is a very real concern for all parents. The Hurphy Durphy was designed and developed to offer parents peace of mind that the child’s capsule or restraint remain safe and secure. Imogen Mirmikidis, Inventor and Managing Director for the Hurphy Durphy, was inspired to invent the Hurphy Durphy after a terrifying experience involving her son Jasper, who was one-year-old at the time. The seatbelt securing his baby capsule was accidentally released whilst the car was on a busy freeway travelling 100 kilometres an hour.
Made from neoprene and plastic, the Hurphy Durphy is suited to both front release and top opening seat belt buckles. Once fitted, it can be removed easily by adults but is
Imogen became aware that her son
virtually impossible for children to
was swinging across the back seat in
unfasten, due to the use of heavy
his unanchored car restraint.
duty Velcro®.
Terrified at the thought of what
The Hurphy Durphy is now stocked in
could have happened to Jasper
over 300 stores Australia-wide, and
if they had been involved in an
can be purchased online.
accident, she commenced an
More Information
Internet search to find a product to stop this from happening again. She was shocked to find that such a product did not exist and proceeded to get a government grant to develop a prototype. After three years of research, development and testing, Imogen finalised the design.
Imogen Mirmikidis P: 08 6262 5698 E: info@hurphydurphy.com www.hurphydurphy.com
www.getaheadkids.com.au
29
News
Camp To Belong Imagine you didn’t see your brothers
week together at no cost to their
They visited the beach, used the
or sisters when you were growing
families. It is through a camp called
on-site waterslide every afternoon,
up. That you didn’t know they had
Camp To Belong.
shared a communal birthday party,
broken their arm, that they had won an award at school, or know that their favourite colour was blue.
Camp To Belong is a weeklong residential camp that brings together brothers and sisters
made memory books of the camp and exchanged specially made travel cushions to keep as reminder of their absent sibling.
This is the reality for thousands of
between the ages of 7 to 17 years
children and young people who
who have been separated through
From 3rd-8th January 2010, Lifestyle
live in out-of-home care in Australia.
no fault of their own and placed in
Solutions will be running the second
About 28,000 children and young
separate foster homes throughout
Camp To Belong to be held in
people in care approximately 75%
NSW. It ran the first camp outside
Sydney, at The Collaroy Centre
of these are separated from at
the USA in January 2009 at Cataract
predominantly for indigenous
least one sibling. They don’t share
Scout Park near Campbelltown,
children.
family holidays, birthday parties or
Sydney.
have the opportunity to have a relationship with their brothers and sisters.
Lifestyle Solutions also plans to
Thirty four brothers and sisters from
conduct Camp To Belong in
South West Sydney were reunited for
Brisbane, Hobart, Perth and Sydney.
seven days of fun, excitement and
More Information
Lifestyle Solutions is a not-for-profit
reconnection. Activities ranged from
organisation that provides the
caving to building and driving billy-
Lifestyle Solutions
opportunity for these children and
carts, from riding the flying fox to
www.lifestylesolutions.org.au
young people to spend one full
taking helicopter rides.
30 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
Activity Zone
Summer Search Can you find the hidden words? R Make sure you look up, down, across and diagonally.
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1. Summertime
8. New Year
15. Board Shorts
2. Sunny
9. Sunscreen
16. Surfing
3. Hot
10. Outside
17. Water Skiing
4. Lifeguard
11. December
18. Air Conditioner
5. Swimming
12. January
19. Beach Towel
6. Christmas
13. February
20. Sunglasses
7. Holidays
14. Bikini
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31
Reviews
The Goblin and the Empty Chair Authors: Mem Fox,
Leo & Diane Dillon
A goblin has such frightful facial features that he covers his face so
The Slightly Skewed Life of Toby Chrysler
he doesn’t scare people. But, when he notices the sorry plight of parents
Age Guide: 4-6 years
and their little girl he starts to help
Extent: 32 pages (Hardback)
in the cover of darkness. He thinks
ISBN: 9780670074211
From the first sentence this book
nobody is watching, but in secret he
Price: AU$24.95
draws you in, as Toby Chrysler
is observed by each family member.
Publisher: Penguin Group (Australia)
Author: Paul Collins
takes you on an adventure through his skewed life. From committing manslaughter to kidnapping, Toby has done it all, in an attempt to find his missing
This is a touching fairytale that deals with hardship, physical deformity,
P: 03 9811 2400 www.penguin.com.au
and the healing power of good deeds.
mother. Partnered with Ginger, a young girl whose father is missing, he devises a plan to find their missing parents.
What is the meaning behind his
Throughout their investigations,
father’s drawings? What is Callums
they find themselves in difficult and
uncle up to? Callum must survive the
deadly situations.
next 365 days!
With each progressing epiphany,
This book keeps you enthralled as
each embarks on a journey of
the mystery unfolds. From the first
self-discovery. The book contains
page, you are thrust into a world
mild supernatural themes and
of conspiracies and a mystery that
death.
keeps the reader riveted.
This is a coming of age book that is
I can’t wait for the next episode of
ideal for any kid who has ever felt socially unaccepted or rejected.
Conspiracy 365
Conspiracy 365.
Author: Gabrielle Lord
Age Guide: 12-16 Years
Extent: 144 pages (Paperback)
This is the first in a series of 12 books
ISBN: 9781741690330
ISBN: 9780 9750 74244
that feature Callum, a 15 year old
Price: AU$9.99
Price: AU$14.95
fugitive, whose Irish ancestors hide a
Publisher: Scholastic Australia
Publisher: Celapene Press
deep dark secret. People are after
P: 02 9416 4000
P: 0409 933 930
him but who are they and why are
www.scholastic.com.au
www.celapenepress.com.au
they chasing him?
Age Guide: 10 -13 Years
32 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
Extent: 185 pages (Paperback)
Reviews
Author: Dr. Gordon Winch MA Me Phd The Conquering Comprehension
and upper years of primary school.
Wales Syllabus but can be used effectively in all Australian states.
These are designed to teach the
The Primary Grammar Dictionary
a variety of literary and factual text
includes grammatical terms for
types, in the key learning areas.
primary school students; including
Each book deals with a variety of
Both the grammar series and the
interest of students and to develop
dictionary have been written by
their skills. It includes outcomes
Dr. Gordon Winch who was
and indicators. Also, checklists and
previously Head, Department of
answers to questions in the text
English at Kuringgai College of
books are provided.
a full-time author. He has had a lifelong involvement in literacy as a
read and feature Australian topics.
and layout make the exercises easy
SPE
C
I
“It does not cost any more to help our environment at NCP Printing.�
educationalist and author,
The topics for the exercises are
easy to read. The excellent design
ED
Compiled by renowned Australian Dr. Gordon Winch, these workbooks
and typeface is large, round and
IT
comprehension forms to capture the
teacher, researcher and author.
interesting, the illustrations are great
W
essential skills of comprehension, in
punctuation and correct usage.
Advanced Education and is now
LY L A
T
workbooks that cover the middle
workbooks that cover the New South
MI
LIS
series is made up of four student
A
ED
series consist of four graded student
ACCR
The Growing Up With Grammar
A
Author: Dr. Gordon Winch MA Me Phd
Conquering Comprehension Books 3-6
F
Growing Up With Grammar Books 1-4 & Primary Grammar Dictionary
are excellently presented, easy to
Age Guide: 9-12 Years Extent: 64 Pages ea. (Paperback) ISBN: 1921042605 (Bk3), 1921042664
to read and complete.
(Bk4), 1921042729 (Bk5), 1921042788
Age Guide: 5-12 Years
Price: AU$12.95 ea.
Page: 64 Pages ea. (Paperback)
Publisher: New Frontier Publishing
ISBN: 0975089668 (Bk1), 0975089676
P: 02 9453 1531
(Bk2), 0975089684 (Bk3), 0975089692
www.newfrontier.com.au
(Bk6)
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. SGS-COC-005911
(Bk4), Dictionary: 097508965X Price: AU$12.95 ea. Publisher: New Frontier Publishing P: 02 9453 1531 www.newfrontier.com.au
www.getaheadkids.com.au
33
Index
Article Themes 2010 January/February
Advertisers Index
Back to School Ad Booking Deadline Nov 6, 2009
Alive With Style - fLAPTOP 28
Editorial Deadline Nov 11, 2009
All Shook Up 21 Arrendell Primary Education Centre
17
March/April
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Physical Education
Covelli The Shoe Specialists
Ad Booking Deadline Feb 5, 2010
Croc Stars 17
Editorial Deadline Feb 12, 2010
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21
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May/June
Family Chiropractic Centre Charlestown
12
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September/October Study & Assessment Ad Booking Deadline Aug 6, 2010 Editorial Deadline Aug 13, 2010
November/December
8
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11
Hurphy Durphy 29 I Can Read 27 Identity Direct 36 INParenting 27 International Childcare College 13 Kinnear & Co Solicitors 33 Lifestyle Solutions 30 Macquarie College Foundation
4
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Summer Learning
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27
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10
Celebrity Spotlight Michelle Bridges
Newcastle Grammar School
7
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5
NSW DII Tocal 23 Passmores’ Business & Management College
24 & 25
PCYC 27 St. Philips Christian Education Foundation
17
Warners Bay Osteopathic Clinic
9
Woodrising Community Pre-school
13
Woven Labels Direct 11
Physical Education Issue Mar/Apr 2010 34 Get Ahead Kids® Jan/Feb 10
For more advertising information please contact Maria Charlton |E: maria@mapmarketing.com.au | P: 02 4929 7766
Advertisers media kit & booking form at www.getaheadkids.com.au
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