My Child Magazine March 2018 Issue by My Child Magazine

MAGAZINE.COM.AU

CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Technology and toddlers learning TEACHING CHILDREN ABOUT DISABILITIES

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ISSUE 78 - MARCH 2018

CONTENTS FEBRUARY FEATURES

12 20 32 50 58

WITH SEPARATION ANXIETY IN CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS HOW YOUR NANNY CAN CARE FOR YOUR CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS TEACHING YOUR CHILD ABOUT DISABILITIES HOW TO MANAGE CHALLENGING BEHAVIOUR IN SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS HOW TO ENCOURAGE READING IN CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

EVERY MONTH

6 7 108 2

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EDITOR’S LETTER

EDITOR’S PICKS

RECIPES

MUMMY BLOG: HIDE AND SEEK

YOUR CHILD

SOLUTIONS FOR THE MOST COMMON SLEEPING PROBLEMS

WHAT IS VAGINAL BIRTH AFTER CAESAREAN (VBAC) ?

HOW PET OWNERSHIP CAN POSITIVELY INFLUENCE CHILDREN

REAL READ

40 72

DESTINY’S STORY

NOVA WEETMAN

RELATIONSHIP

MAKING IT WORK: LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIP

DAD READ

HOW ENCOROUGE NEW FATHERS

SHOPPING

46 64

CREATIVE WAYS TO ANNOUNCE PREGNANCY TECHNOLOGY AND TODAY’S TODDLER

80 90 96 102 16

FASHION - DESIGNER KIDZ

SHOP KIDS FASHION

GET THE LOOK INTERIORS TOY REVIEWS

BOOK REVIEWS

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EDITOR BIANCA MEDINA

ASSISTANT EDITOR JANA ANGELES

ART DIRECTOR CRAIG BURKILL

CONTRIBUTING EXPERTS APRIL DAVIES AMY ADENEY SHEREE ECHLIN LEAH SHANNON KARLI STEENKAMP OLIVIA ARROW MADELINE MITCHELL GENIE PRICE LANCE GREEN

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES EDITORIAL@MYCHILDMAGAZINE.COM.AU

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES ADVERTISING@MYCHILDMAGAZINE.COM.AU

CONTACT: MYCHILD MAGAZINE PHONE: 0411 572 877

My Child magazine and mychildmagazine.com.au are wholly owned by MyChild Magazine (ABN 79 167 787 662). No other parties or individuals have any financial interest in the company or in My Child or mychildmagazine.com.au. My Child contains general information only and does not purport to be a substitute for health and parenting advice. Readers are advised to seek a doctor for all medical and health matters. The publisher and authors do not accept any liability whatsoever in respect of an action taken by readers in reliance on the recommendations set out in this magazine. Reproduction of any material without written permission by the publisher is strictly forbidden. We cannot accept responsibility for material lost or damaged in the post or for any unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders.

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EDITOR’S

Letter Hi Everyone, March is a bittersweet month for me. March is the month that My Darling Daughter was born. Only 3 short years ago I was holding this tiny little baby and now my little girl is turning 3 at the end of the month. I can’t believe how fast time has gone by, it seems like only yesterday that I was in the delivery room and they gave Max to me to hold for the first time. I was so scared that I might hurt her or that maybe I wouldn’t be good enough at being a mum, but those fears faded as quickly as they appeared. What I’ve learnt is that there is no right or wrong way to parent, every child is different, every child has their own challenges, my advice to all mums out there is just do the best you can. Be there, be present and somehow it seems to work out. So, it’s that time of the year again and we are launching the My Child Excellence Awards and we can’t wait to see how all the brands go this year! Since taking over the magazine, this is the 3rd awards that we have been involved in and the excitement hasn’t dimmed. I’d like to say “Thank You” to all in advance for voting on your favourite brands. Now let’s take a look at what’s in the March Issue. This month is the Children with Special Needs and MCM Excellence Awards Issue. We have some great article for you around the theme check out our articles: Teaching Your Children About Disabilities, How To Deal With Separation Anxiety in Children With Special Needs, Top Tips on How Your Nanny Can Care for Your Child With Special Needs, How To Encourage Reading in Children With Special Needs, How To Manage Challenging Behaviour in Special Needs Kids and many more to help you out on your parenting journey like: Creative Ways to Announce Pregnancy, What is Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC)?, Solutions For The Most Common Sleeping Problems, Does Technology Help Toddlers’ Learning?, How Pet Ownership Can Positively Influence Your Children, How to Encourage New Fathers, Make It Work: Maintaining A Long-Distance Relationship When You Have Kids All the usuals, interior, reviews blog and much more can also be found in this issue too. Until Next Month

Bianca xxx

Bianca and the mychild Team xxx

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BABY

SOLUTIONS FOR THE MOST COMMON SLEEPING PROBLEMS Written by Jana Angeles In the first few weeks a baby is born, you’re either blessed with a peaceful sleeping baby or one that has grown to be fussy and demands your attention with cries and wails. If you’re a first time parent and have seen your baby in the first few months adapt good sleeping habits, expect it to change as they grow and develop.

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It’s easy to feel misguided and think that you’re not doing all you can to help your baby sleep well. You may second guess your methods and are trying to wrap your head around the best solutions when it comes to their sleeping problems. If they haven’t been sleeping well lately, here are some solutions we hope can help your little one fall into a sweet slumber like they used to. PROBLEM 1: BEING PATIENT DURING DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES Your baby would have learnt how to crawl and for first time parents, it’s exciting to see your little one adapt a new skill as part of their milestone. You may be up at the crack of dawn with them, showing enthusiasm and pride over something so simple but in reality, their sleep schedule is now out of their routine. Crawling isn’t even part of the problem either as in no time, your child will begin to walk, talk and do all kinds of things that we find fascinating in a little human. Unfortunately, with the “occasional” staying up late, this throws them off out of their sleep schedule so while it’s tempting to stay excited and ask your little one to repeat a crawl or say the word ‘mum’, it’s important to try and resist temptation and put them in bed at a reasonable time. Solution • If you’re excited to see your child adapt a new skill, take time to practise during the day instead. This will keep their sleeping schedule on track and you won’t have to struggle putting them to bed. • Let them move around if need be (walk, crawl, talk, tumble, turn). This will help them feel like they’ve worked out, using up all their energy levels and hopefully resulting in them feeling tired and going to sleep at a reasonable hour.

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PROBLEM 2: THEY WAKE UP ON THEIR OWN CLOCK It’s always a mystery when it comes to your baby waking up on their own terms. They may be feeling a temperature change - hot or cold, or they seem to suffer from a tummy ache or just want a sip of milk to help them get back to sleep. Either way, it’s frustrating for parents when it comes to meeting the demands of the baby, especially if it seems to be happening at the crack of dawn. Otherwise, they could be going through a rough patch and just want to sleep next to you. Babies can be unpredictable creatures and their demands do change but waking up on their own terms can create chaos around the household! Solution • Show comfort to your child by rocking them back to sleep or carrying them and walking around too. While it is tough to do this when feeling sleep deprived, remember it can take a few minutes to get them to sleep again. • Just remember that no matter how frustrating it is to wake up at odd hours of the morning, just remember that it is just a phase and eventually, your baby will be able to soothe themselves to sleep. PROBLEM 3: THE TIMING OF NAPS ARE TERRIBLE Sleeping late can cause a lot of problems for your baby if they don’t go to bed at reasonable hour. This means that if they’re in bed at around midnight and wake up at around 10am the next day, their routine is out of order again. Not only that, but they will be taking naps either too close to dinner or actual bedtime. It’s important to get your kids in a good routine so you can schedule their naps properly. If not, they will be sleeping later during the day and will persist to stay awake further into the night.

Solution • Keep a sleep journal and monitor your baby’s sleep schedule. This can keep you in check on what their ideal bedtime should be and work towards that. • If you know your child hasn’t been sleeping well, monitor their energy levels between 4pm to 5pm. If they are happy, assume that their sleeping pattern is all good to go. If they lose their temper or are just cranky throughout the period, you probably need to get them to adapt better sleeping habits! PROBLEM 4: THEY ARE OUT OF ROUTINE If you’ve come back from a family trip or a weekend getaway with your baby, this could mean coming back to a completely different structure to what they were used to before. It’s a struggle having to adapt a new routine again because your baby may struggle to soothe themselves to sleep. The things that used to work may not so be prepared to find new ways to soothe your child back into a sweet routine again.

Solution • Even if you are overseas with your baby and find it tempting to stay up late each time, it’s important to keep a healthy routine in place for them. This will help the transition be a lot easier once you come back home. • Give yourself a couple of days to undertake a “sleep refresher”. Starting from square one isn’t ideal but once you’ve fed and bathed your child, it only makes sense to put them to bed. Repeat if necessary and remain positive and patient during this period. All babies will have sleeping problems at some point so don’t point out that you know someone that has a less-than-problematic little one on their hands. It’s natural to feel like you aren’t doing the right thing so trust your gut where necessary. Along the way, you will find effective methods and solutions to help your baby snooze rightfully again. In the end, they will be able to sound asleep at a reasonable hour in no time.

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How To Deal With Separation Anxiety in Children With Special Needs Written by Jana Angeles It can be difficult to manage separation anxiety in children with special needs. Although this can be challenging, it is normal for all parents to experience this as it is part of the developmental stage in children. This occurs when they are about eight months old. However, children with special needs can feel a heightened sense of emotions when they experience separation anxiety. It can take years of family activities and encouragement to reduce the occurrence of it. There are some ways that can help reduce separation anxiety. All it takes is resilience and a positive attitude to be able to take care of your child while encouraging them to have a sense of independence.

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CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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START WITH BRIEF SEPARATIONS Brief separations can help your child transition to a new environment much easier. You can start slowly by leaving them in a new environment for five minutes while increasing the time goal each day. Consider talking to the teachers of your childcare/school about your arrangement and let them know in advance that it could take weeks for your child to overcome separation anxiety. You can also try and leave them alone in a play facility for an hour and see how they react to the environment. Repetition and having patience is key to be able to handle these brief separations from your child. UTILISE POSITIVE LANGUAGE It can be tough not being around your kids 24/7 because they could experience separation anxiety if a teacher/guardian has used language that appears negative for the child. Saying things like “Your mother is gone” or “She left you” can make them feel upset and confused by this. Be cautious and take the time to ask the teachers at school to use positive language such as “Your mother will be back soon” or “She will pick you up at 3pm”. This will give them assurance that you will be returning, preventing any cases of separation anxiety in your child. CREATE A SOCIAL STORYBOARD Having a storyboard can improve your child’s confidence in being separated from you. Detailing their journey and what their day-to-day activities will look like can help them transition to a new environment much easily. Taking photos of the caregivers can help them identify who is looking after them and what to expect for the rest of the day. During the holidays, you can do the same thing if you have someone else that will look after your child.

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BUY OR MAKE THEM A MAGIC BRACELET Purchasing or making a special bracelet can help your child feel comfortable if they are separated from you because you’ve given them something to remember you by. You can buy matching ones so incase they are about to feel anxious about where they are, they can look at it and feel calm. When making the bracelet, using familiar colours or materials will make it unique and can also give them a sense of stability when it comes to their emotions. TAKE FIELD TRIPS TOGETHER It’s important to have a sense of wonder when it comes to your child and taking them to different environments can help increase their knowledge about the world and its surroundings. Though it can be difficult sometimes to take care of a child with special needs, it’s important to acknowledge that they can immerse themselves in an environment and take curiosity in things that are brand new. It can stimulate their brain and take them out of their comfort zones. It gives them the opportunity to be open and embrace new adventures. Separation anxiety in children with special needs is a challenge that will bring good and bad times. Always be open to their needs and only approach methods that you feel can help reduce their feelings of anxiety. Take the time and seek help from health professionals, but also take cues from your child and see what works. Evaluate the pros and cons but also remember why you are doing this. Giving them a chance to explore their own independence is beautiful and something all parents should strive for in all their children.

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march 2018 | mychild

Book Reviews

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Book Reviews ABC MINDFUL ME Written & Illustrated by Christians Engel This is an alphabet book with a difference - each letter represents a concept to help children slow down and be mindful of the world around them. The pages are filled with easy ideas to incorporate into our everyday lives, from breathing and giving, to thankfulness and yoga. By the end of the alphabet, with the help of simple colourful illustrations, the book has demonstrated the benefits of practicing mindfulness with children. This is a fantastic book to share with 3-7 year olds, although its concepts hold true for readers of any age.

EVERYTHING YOU Written by Elizabeth McPike, Illustrated by Jay Fleck While this book is really a parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s message to a newborn baby, it is a beautiful book to share with children from birth to three years old. It lovingly captures the feelings of waiting for a new babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrival, followed by the wonder of life with a newborn, and the myriad of ways that it fulfils, and exceeds, all expectations. Young children will love sharing this delightful book which reaffirms how much they are loved. This is a perfect choice for reading together at bedtime, and a great gift for a new baby.

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BIRD BUILDS A NEST Written by Martin Jenkins, Illustrated by Richard Jones This enjoyable and educational book works on two levels. It tells the story of a small bird building its nest - collecting twigs, dried grass and feathers, and using its beak and body to shape the nest. In smaller print, the text also describes the forces at play in the bird’s actions - pushing and pulling and even introduces the idea of gravity causing a dropped twig to fall to the ground. With the increased focus on the importance of STEM in children’s education, this is a great way to introduce 2-5 year olds to the simple physics concepts at work in our everyday actions.

YAY! IT’S LIBRARY DAY! Written by Aleesah Darlison, Illustrated by Australian Children This gorgeous book is the result of an invitation to the children of Australia to submit illustrations for a picture book about a dad taking his children to the library. From over 600 entries, 31 were selected to illustrate this imaginative tale, depicting the wondrous scenes that the children read about in their library books. From ocean wonderlands to circus big-tops, each page is a marvel to behold, demonstrating the amazing skills of creative children. This is a fun and engaging book to share with 2-6 year olds, reinforcing the magical worlds to which picture books can transport us.

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Top Tips On How Your Nanny Can Care for Your Child With Special Needs Written by Jana Angeles Having a child with special needs will come with its unique rewards and challenges, so hiring a nanny to take care of them is a huge step for many parents. As time goes on, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve felt like you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been making yourself a priority due to taking care of your child. Having extra expenses can put a financial strain on families who have children with special needs as well.

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CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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Although we wish we could have more time to take on more responsibilities and duties, our kids come first above all so making the decision of hiring a nanny can drastically improve the lifestyle of families. However, you have to be prepared for the challenges and train the person you’re intending on hiring to make sure they are fully prepared for any type of situation that may arise. Here are some top tips to consider before you undergo the hiring process of finding a nanny: BE HONEST ABOUT THEIR NEEDS Of course you don’t want to scare anyone off if you have a list of demands you need to fulfil for your child, but it doesn’t hurt to be honest about them either. If you know that your child needs extra attention, you need to communicate this with any potential nannies you consider hiring. This is because they will need to know what they’ve signed up for and make adjustments accordingly. The last thing you want is to hire someone and not be on the same page as them. Being honest about your child’s needs will narrow down the people who genuinely want to take on the role of being a caregiver for your child. FOLLOW YOUR GUT It’s important to trust your gut feeling no matter what! If you have alarm bells going off in your brain over a potential nanny, give them a miss. If you feel like someone is perfect for the job, hire them straight away (after rigorous screen checking of course). We all want what’s best for our kids so being able to see through other people can help with the hiring process. PROVIDE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS If you are planning on leaving your child with a nanny a couple of times a week, don’t skimp on the details when it comes to their

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routine, their likes and dislikes and what to do if an unexpected scenario occurs. Although your nanny has to meet their responsibilities, providing clear and concise instructions can help them take better care of your child. These instructions don’t have to be demanding or have an overwhelming

chunk of information, be mindful that these can be used for ‘just incase’ situations. UNDERTAKE AN EXTENSIVE SCREENING PROCESS Being safe than sorry is applicable to this when it comes to the hiring process of

your nanny. You want someone responsible, trustworthy and ultimately can give the best care for your children, right?! Then going through an extensive screening process is the only way to go. If a potential employee has ticked all the boxes when it comes to Resume, Police Checks, Working With Children Checks and First Aid, the last step is to contact and talk to their previous employers. This can give you an idea of their background and also what they’re like as a caregiver. BE PREPARED FOR MEDICAL OR BEHAVIOURAL EMERGENCIES Having a child with special needs can be challenging for the next few weeks with your new nanny so don’t be surprised if you have to drop everything at once to attend to their care. There will be times where your child will have unexpected meltdowns or go through behaviour that simply cannot be managed. Let your employer know in advance that there may be instances where you have to take time off work unexpectedly. Talk through other options such as having flexi starts and finishes or being able to work remotely some days of the week. At the end of the day, your child needs you and you should be there during those tough times. Having a nanny to take care of your child with special needs can be a wonderful experience because it allows another person to grow a bond with them. Although the hiring process can be tedious at times, once you get to know them, you will feel at ease knowing you’ve chosen the right person. Having that extra time to go to work and run errands around the household can help you feel less exhausted and have more time to focus on your child’s needs once you’ve had the time to rest and recharge!

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The Mummy Blog BY: SHEREE ECHLIN

“Hide and seek” Kids know when you sneak off for a moment to yourself. That minute of solitude where you can just gather your thoughts....nope too late they find you. Every. Single. Time. It’s like they have a special radar to find Mummy where ever she is in the house. It’s cute when you hear their tiny little voices followed by giggles but when it’s screaming followed by loud moaning shouts of “Mummy, Mum, where are you?” it takes on another level altogether. And of course, these moments always seem to happen when you’re either in the shower or toilet! They know, they always know when mummy has to do something for herself. Or even if you just sit down, they appear out of nowhere!

Kids. What can I say that hasn’t been said before? On a good day, you don’t mind them so much. One bad day or hour, a minute maybe and you’re ready to disown them. I love the fun times. The days where we giggle, be silly and do girly things. But the bad days really take the cake, especially when I have a four-yearold repeating everything I say. Honestly when did she develop such an attitude? Did I turn my back one day and someone dropped a mini teenager in place of my big baby? Don’t get me wrong I knew she would grow up, but I wasn’t expecting a miniature version of myself for a little while yet (haha!). I’m still enjoying my “baby” Miss Phoebe though, well most of the time anyway. When she starts copying her big sister, it’s not as much fun. But I can’t get enough of the chubby arms wrapping around my neck in a hug and when she tells me she loves me. It just melts my heart. Until five seconds later when she blows a raspberry in my face. Better than when I cop the occasional deliberate blast of air from the back end of either of my children I guess. Yes, I’m raising girls, not that you would know it some days. And you know what, I really have no issue with it. I’m not exactly a girly girl myself, a topic I’ve touched on many times before. Kids will be kids and I’m a big believer in letting them find and develop their personalities without feeling like they have to conform to the idea of “how it should be”. Miss Izzie is one sneaky four-year-old though. Even if “no” is the answer, she’ll find a way to do it. There’s no stopping her from getting food. Opening packets is no longer a barrier, she can do it, even if it’s with her teeth. Grabbing something

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from up high that’s just out of her reach, she moves a toy or chair and suddenly it’s in her hands. Yep, she’s one big girl these days and you definitely can’t tell her otherwise! As for her younger sister, she’s still adamant that chocolate is what she needs every other minute of the day. Honestly, I can’t blame the kid for trying, it is pretty tasty! But just like tomato sauce, chocolate is certainly not a meal….that’s another story in itself. Am I scared about my babies growing up? You bet I am! I see them changing and growing all the time. One day they won’t need mummy doing everything for them anymore. It makes me both sad and proud at the same time. But one thing I know I’m not afraid of is how they will handle themselves in this world. While I may constantly roll my eyes (gee I wonder where they get it from??!!) at their attitude and cheekiness, I know it’s not entirely a bad thing. In time, they will become strong, independent women and I can only hope I’ve had a big positive influence on them. I don’t always show them the right way to do things and I’m about as far from perfect as you can get, but I can only hope my girls look up to me as much as I have with my own mum. Lucky, I love them, right?! No matter how big they are, they will always be my babies (big girls if you ask them!), but for now I think I’m going to try and enjoy them being little as much as I can. Kids will drive you crazy, make you laugh and they certainly keep life interesting. My girls definitely always give me something to make light of. Follow more of their antics at shereeechlin. com.

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What is Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC)? Written by Jana Angeles Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC) is women that are physically able to give birth naturally despite having a previous caesarean birth. The only difference is that health professionals (nurses, doctors, midwives) will carefully monitor you during labour, ensuring that you are safe and in good health doing so. In addition, they may have special equipment they use that will quickly show the progress of you and your babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health and to pick up any problems that may occur along the way.

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BIRTH

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BEFORE CONSIDERING VBAC There are a few considerations to take before deciding on VBAC. These include: • Talking with your doctor about your decision and having them explain the health risks and impacts during the procedure. • Finding the right health professionals that will support you in your decision. This can be a challenge at first as some may seem hesitant at first, especially after you’ve had a caesarean. • Talking to other women about their experience with VBAC. This could shape your decision-making and can help you weigh out the pros and cons. • Attending birth classes and learning more about VBAC. HOW DOES VBAC BENEFIT YOU? Obviously women who have experienced VBAC all have unique experiences on their own - some good, some bad. Be prepared for the unexpected but also keep an open mind when it comes to the decision-making. Though it can feel daunting to have a vaginal birth after you’ve had a caesarean, there are plenty of benefits too. These include: • Being physically capable of taking care of the baby and other children. • Quicker recovery time from labour and birth. • Less likely to experience further birth complications in the future. • Less likely to return to hospital for further health checks. • Better chance of starting breastfeeding for babies. • Have less dependence on pain relief medication post-birth. • More likely to touch and cuddle babies and provide skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby.

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It’s been noted that most women feel pleasant and happy after a vaginal birth and often feel satisfied with their overall birth experience. Not only does VBAC have benefits for mothers in general but it can also avoid any health problems in babies. These include: • Less likely to undergo respiratory problems in comparison to a caesarean. • Babies born vaginally tend to have

stronger immune systems and are less likely to develop allergies in the future. WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES? Though some women have had positive experiences with VBAC, it’s important to note down its disadvantages. These can include: • Your baby’s heartbeat needs to be closely monitored so you need to use special equipment, which can create an

uncomfortable environment for when you go into labour. It’s also difficult to use water as a pain relief as well. • You have a slightly higher risk of developing a scar in your uterus, which could lead to tearing and rupturing while in labour. However, it’s a small risk and 1 in 200 women who have VBACs have it. • Tearing can happen with very little warning and can negatively impact the health of you and the baby. Though the tear can be repaired, in some cases, women have had to undergo a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) if heavy bleeding occurs and poses as a serious risk to the health. • With VBACs, you have to prepare for an unplanned caesarean if required. The labour process may take too long and can distress your body and the baby’s wellbeing. Furthermore, an unplanned caesarean could put you at risk of infection and increased bleeding. WHAT CAN I DO TO IMPROVE MY CHANCES OF HAVING A VBAC? • If you have given a vaginal birth before, it’s likely you’ll have success with a VBAC. • Creating a comfortable and positive setting for birth and having supportive people (friends, family, etc) and caregivers in the room can encourage you to have a vaginal birth. • When you’re in labour, nominate a person that can closely support you. Whether it’d be a midwife, your partner or a doula, these can help you achieve VBAC through their encouragement and belief in you. • There are special classes for VBAC. Attending these would be beneficial as you’ll know what to expect and be prepared for the outcomes of it all. • Eat healthy and be active while pregnant. This can help boost your chances of having a successful VBAC.

march 2018 | mychild

MUMMY, WHAT’S WRONG WITH THAT BOY? TEACHING YOUR CHILD ABOUT DISABILITIES Written by Genie Price If your child hasn’t already met a person with a disability, it is highly likely that at some stage during their school years, they will. When they do start asking questions, rather than harvesting fear and confusion, take the opportunity to foster inclusion and acceptance, and give them the best possible understanding. Ultimately, it’s how you respond to these questions, which will impact on how your child will later treat a person with a disability as they move through life.

march 2018 | mychild

CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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WHAT IS A DISABILITY? In 2009, The Bureau of Statistics reveals that four million Australian people live with a disability, of which, 290,000, 7.2% are children aged between 0-14 years. A disability can impact upon a child’s mental, sensory or mobility functions. It may be caused by an accident, trauma, genetics or disease. A disability may also be temporary or permanent, total or partial, lifelong or acquired, visible or invisible. And, as a result – whatever the disability is, can have a profound effect on their social engagement and education. TYPES OF DISABILITY IN AUSTRALIA: Disabilities which affect some Australian children, vary somewhat with age. From the recent findings, of young children aged 0-4 years who had a disability, almost two-thirds (63%) had a sensory (e.g.

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sight and hearing) or speech disability. In contrast, just over one third (37%) of children aged 5-14 years had sensory or speech impairments (Bureau of Statistics). The following tips can prepare you to talk to your child about people living with a disability when they come to you for answers. Firstly, you can start small by explaining to your child: • No two people are the same – some differences are just more noticeable • Children with a disability are like all children. Like your child - they too want friends, to be treated with respect and to be included • Children can be born with a disability or acquire a disability through an accident or illness • It’s important that your child understands that you cannot catch another person’s disability

• Just because a person has a physical disability (their body doesn’t work as well as ours) does not mean that they also have an intellectual disability (their mind and thinking doesn’t work the same as ours) • Children with a disability can do some of the things your child can do, it just may take them longer or they may need special equipment to help them to do it IT’S OK TO ASK: Kids, especially young ones, are naturally curious, so when your child sees a person with a disability it’s their first instinct to ask you about it. When the questions start flying: • Don’t shush your child - let them know that its OK to ask about the person and their disability • Offer them a matter-of-fact explanation for example: “I noticed you saw that girl in a wheel-chair” … “she has problems with her body and can’t walk the same as you and I.” If your child starts asking detailed questions, offer to help find answers at home: • Go online together to learn more about a particular disability • Be sure to not only point out what people with disabilities can’t do but what they can do also – as this is just as important Doing this will help your child develop an understanding of the various disabilities and how each one affects the person individually. This can promote awareness in your child that, hopefully, will be shared among others. USE RESPECTFUL TERMINOLOGY: Like sponges, children absorb everything. This is why it’s important to be mindful of the way you speak about and interact with

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a person who has a disability - as your child will see and hear it all. When discussing people with a disability it is preferred to use “people first” or a “person first” approach. Such as: • “person with a disability,” or “woman with cerebral palsy,” and “man with an intellectual disability.” Or: • “a person with limited capabilities”… “person with a vision impairment” or “people with intellectual disability” as these are considered more appropriate. Using derogatory language such as “handicapped” or “cripple” or “retarded” are hurtful and should be avoided. The purpose of people-first language is to promote the idea that someone’s disability label is just that - a disability label—not the defining characteristic of the entire individual. For more information relating to examples of appropriate language, refer to: www.pwd.org.au/student-section/ terminology-used-by-pwda.html DON’T ALLOW JOKES OR BULLYING: Unfortunately, children with special needs or living with a disability are more likely to be bullied or abused in some way or another. More than half – 62% of the students with Autism Spectrum Disorder recently surveyed by the Queensland Government, indicated being bullied one or more times in a week. This is significantly higher than the 1 in 7 children living without a disability - who also fall victim to discriminatory behaviours, teasing and or name calling and cyber bullying, in schools throughout Australia.

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If you happen to over hear your child or theirfriends calling a child with a disability “dumb” or “retarded” reinforce, even if meant as a joke, it is unacceptable to use hurtful words. If your child is old enough to understand further, explain the implications of teasing and bullying on another person’s mental health. For more information about how to care for your child and their mental health, please visit: https://healthyfamilies.beyondblue.org.au/ age-6-12/mental-health-conditions-in-children

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TALK ABOUT WHAT WE ALL HAVE IN COMMON: We all have likes - things we are passionate about. Many of us also have dislikes, too. Talk to your child about what they may have in common with other children with disabilities. Do they both have eyes? Hair? Hands? Give clear, obvious examples such as: • First and foremost, we are all human, with our own desires, skills and talents • Do you think that little boy has feelings? We all have feelings too, so, it’s important to educate your child how a person with a disability is the same as them • At some point, we all go to school and get an education. A child with a disability may just need assistive technology to help get them through

Talking about disabilities with anyone, let alone children, can be a tricky subject. It’s ok to accept you don’t know all the answers, as long as you are prepared to seek them out and continue to nurture your child’s young mind, positively. What better way to strengthen a society of acceptance and inclusion? About the Author: After educating curious preschoolers for the past 14 years, I have a clear understanding of some of the questions children ask! I recently made the move into disability services and love my career. I get to help both adults and children with disabilities achieve their goals and, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Well, except chasing my own two boisterous

boys around the house and tapping away at the keyboard - writing for My Child. You can see me at: http://genies1.wixsite.com/ thekiwihummingbird References:People with Disability - www.pwd.org. au/student-section/terminology-used-by-pwda. html / The Australian Bureau of Statistics - www. abs.gov.au/Disability /Australian Network on Disability - www.and.org.au/pages/disabilitystatistics.html /The Queensland Government www.qld.gov.au/disability/children-young-people/ bullying-disability-mental-health

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Destinyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story When Destiny was seven years old, she faced a horrific experience of sexual assault; the trauma shook destiny to the core of her emotional wellbeing. The perpetrator received a jail sentence of two years but was initially let out after eight months of the jail sentencing. Destiny began to isolate herself and immediately developed problems due to the experience she had gone through such as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ticksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; where she was unable to control her own body and therefore resulting in her muscles tearing. Destiny had a huge mountain to climb before she would feel peace with her body and mind.

REAL LIFE

Destiny had been put down on numerous waiting list for counselling and treatments, but the wait for Destiny overcoming this horrible encounter was pushed under the carpet as she turned eight. She was now beginning to be bullied and an exhausting fight with her body continued daily. Destiny decided to overdose on muscle relaxers and sleeping pills due to the hardships she went through each day thankfully she made it through. As her mother, I was devastated that my baby hated herself and felt death was

better than living at only eight years of age. The Australian Law System for punishment has let her down and I was not going to do the same. I became her counsellor and eventually showed her the light so she could feel beautiful about herself once again. I found things to distract her such as singing and dancing together and began creating her dream to be a singer. Destiny found an amazing singing teacher named Dianne Regan who understood her story and gave her a voice.

Destiny then found KNK Kookies and Kreme hip hop dance school, which is run by Jet Valencia whom was a finalist for Australia’s Got Talent and a Ballet dance instructor named Miss Mims. This is where the real healing of destiny began. Dancing and singing stopped all her ticks as her mind was so dedicated to the freedom she found in dancing and singing. By age eleven, she had won many awards for her now talent: The World Australian Hip Hop Championships with her crew

named Lil Kookies as pictured. When Destiny was not dancing and singing, her ticks were at peak and her anger was out of control as she had always participated in athletics prior to the assault. We decided it was best she hung up the running shoes and pick up a shotput. This helped with all the anger issues and she was able to release her pain during her throws. Destiny represented NSW in New Zealand and brought back a bronze medal. Destiny now twelve is still dealing with ticks but we are happy to say they are only around on occasion and under stress. Her last journey in her recovery was learning to love herself and give back to those who helped her. She will compete in Miss Diamond Australia on April 7th in Brisbane. This pageant is all about the real beauty of an individual and does not discriminate against age, gender, size or ability. MDA is an antibullying pageant that inspires charitable endeavours and self-love. A part of the MDA is to raise money for charity. Destiny has chosen Tourette’s Association Australia and now has built so much confidence over the past for months, advocating and speaking out at community events. Destiny even had the opportunity to join the first ever council primary school; 2168 children parliament. Miss Diamond Australia has given back Destiny’s self-esteem and love for her inner beauty, which is the greatest thing to see as a mother. Destiny said it does not matter if she never becomes a famous singer/dancer or if she doesn’t win the grand finals at MDA. She would like other trauma warriors to know that life can get better. Although her daily ticks may never disappear, her mind is stronger now. She is the director of her own body and journey: believe and achieve.

WE LIKE TO MOVE IT, MOVE IT. The first five years of a child’s life is arguably the most important of their lives; emotionally and physically. When it comes to their physical development children use their bodies to explore and communicate, which also provides them with the exercise they need to grow healthy and strong. Physical movement is also an essential means of communication and is one of the earliest ways in which children express their thoughts and feelings. For instance, sixteen-month-old Archie takes mum’s hand, leads her to the kitchen and points to the sippy cup he wants to her to get for him. Your response to your child’s movements helps them learn about communication and makes them feel loved, heard and of course, important. These early years can pass by quickly. So too can the use by dates on items like clothes, nappies and toys, as children outgrow things fast! Which means the first five years can be costly. The list of essential items that constantly need

TODDLER

updating is long. With this in mind, Globber Australia has launched the new EVO Comfort, the product that grows along with your child (15 months old, up to 9+ years) – from pushchair, to walking bike to a pre-schooler’s scooter and eventually an older child’s scooter. Here are the GLOBBER EVO COMFORT features that will save you money and adapt to the movement stages of your child. LONGER USAGE • 3 seat height positions for growing legs • 4 handlebar height positions means this scooter can service your child for several years • Converts from pushchair to walking bike to scooter of varying sizes quickly and easily • Great quality parts increase the likelihood of passing the Globber Evo Comfort to a sibling • Rear brake covered to ensure longer lasting rear wheel • Can carry a child up to 50kgs • Steering lock button prevents wheels turning for easy learning MORE COMFORTABLE • In push chair and walking bike, an extra wide oval-shaped seat with high rise back makes for a super comfy ride • Comfortable handles for mum and dad when in pushchair and walking bike mode • Adjustable t-bar handle to suit

parents of all heights • Good quality wheels and bearings make for a smooth ride • Extra low deck for better stability in scooter mode • Footrest in pushchair mode for additional comfort STYLE • French designed Globber scooters look great • Great range of colours • Option to upgrade to front wheels that contain flashing lights – every kid’s dream! The EVO Comfort also solves the problem of wastage. Poorly made products rarely stand the ‘hand me down’ test and end up as landfill. Globber scooters however are built to outlast even the most robust kid. The new EVO Comfort also allows you to adjust the product to the exact height, comfort and movement stages for each of your children, giving it even more longevity. Now, that’s a good reason to consider a Globber scooter. EVO Comfort has been nominated for My Child Magazine’s Favourite Outdoor Product. To see find out about more Globber products, head to www. globber.com.au

PREGNANCY

Creative Ways To Announce Pregnancy Finding out you are pregnant is one of the most wonderful and thrilling feelings you will ever feel. And there are a million things going through your mind. Baby shopping is definitely at the top of the list, but also telling everyone that you are expecting. The way that people have announced pregnancies have changed significantly over the last few years. It is fun to find a creative and unique way of letting people know you are going to be parents. It can be a little stressful because you want it to be perfect and exciting. There is no need. There are many creative ways of announcing your big news to the world that can be totally unique to you and your partner.

It can be very exciting to surprise your partner, if you are able to keep it a secret for a few hours. Personalized body suits are a creative way to break the news to the dad-to-be. You can customize your own body suit with ‘I love daddy’. No words are necessary with this present. It can be a great way to tell your family you are pregnant by giving body suits to them as well. You can put captions on with ‘Best Grandma’ or ‘I love you Grandpa’. It can be costly, but it is a very special way to announce your pregnancy.

There are many cost-effective ways to announce your pregnancy. It doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. You can frame your sonogram photo with a pair of baby boots with your due date. This way is and always will be a classic.

A timeline of your relationship can be a great way to spread the news. Put the dates of when you met, got engaged, got married and your due date.

We all know how much laundry a family already has. Take a photo of your laundry basket with a caption that says: “More laundry expected in July ‘18”. You can also personalize a shirt for your child that says “Only child expiring July ’18”. Another few cute ideas are to have an eviction notice at your child’s cot or have them read a book about having a sibling. You can even get more creative and buy them a superhero outfit and say: “Sidekick on its way July ‘18”.

Another way to involve your whole ‘family’ is by having your pets play a big role in your announcement. You can take a photo with dad, mom and your fur baby standing in a row and baby shoes next to your pets feet with a caption ‘Our family are expanding in July ‘18.” Your pets are going to be part of the baby’s life, so make them involved from the start. For a more humoristic approach you can have your pet lying down and put a caption that states: “Promoted to big brother/sister.” A huge trend currently is to do a photo shoot. This is a great way to have beautiful memories that can go straight into the album. The ideas are endless on what you can do. Both of you can sit on a bench in a park with a play area behind you holding balloons. If you have decided to wait the 12 weeks and wait for the gender of the baby then you can choose pink or blue balloons to hold. A romantic shoot stating that it will only be the two of you for a little while longer, is a great way to capture your excitement.

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This pregnancy may most likely not be your first. It is great to involve your children in the announcement. Film them while you tell them about the new baby. Their reactions will be priceless and can be shared with everyone.

There are so many ideas on how to make your announcement special and share it with all your loved ones. It doesn’t have to cost money; it all depends on what you want and what your circumstances are. Involving everyone in your household is a fun way to bond and announce your miracle on the way.

References: #iheartnaptime Life as mama Pinterest

march 2018 | mychild

How To Manage Challenging Behaviour in Special Needs Kids

Written by Jana Angeles

becomes a hard battle when managing their behaviour. Children with special needs are unpredictable with their habits and though this is a strong assumption, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what to expect each day.

There comes a point where we question our own parenting style when raising special needs kids. Though itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rewarding to raise them, there will be unique challenges that we all have to face and sometimes, it There will be moments where

CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

everything feels smooth sailing and other times where you’ll feel like you’re biting off more than you can chew. As with all parents, we face unique challenges on a day-to-day basis and we simply can’t take the blame for everything that happens to our children. It’s easier to take on

the blame but in reality, it isn’t your fault. There are ways to manage your child’s behaviour even if there are days where you’ll feel like everything is impossible. All you need is a positive attitude and the resilience in knowing you can survive another day.

KEEP TRACK OF THEIR BEHAVIOUR USING A HANDBOOK This is a handy tip to take on board when it comes to monitoring the behaviour of your children with special needs. You can write down any notes that reflect on positive and negative habits. Write down specific triggers and their reactions to certain things. Don’t be afraid to observe and monitor your child’s behaviour even if it feels weird. You are only trying to understand the roots of their behaviour and finding ways of improvement. FIND A PHYSICAL ACTIVITY THAT WORKS FOR THEM If you find that your child with special needs struggles with managing their anger/ upsetting feelings, take on a physical activity that can release their emotions in a healthy way. Picking up some martial arts or even doing boxing can help them release that tension and can be a weekly activity they can enjoy for themselves. It will also benefit their emotional and physical wellbeing overall. STAY CALM BUT ALSO SHOW ASSERTIVENESS There will be times where you’ll feel like you’ve run out of patience for your children and that’s okay. No one expects you to keep it altogether, especially when things become difficult between you and your child with special needs. If you find that the way you deal with things has been passive recently, show assertiveness in everything you do from now on. Find ways to create a calming atmosphere for you and your child so you can find some balance in your lives. ENCOURAGE THEM TO MAKE FRIENDS If your child with special needs is struggling through some behavioural

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issues, encourage them to make meaningful friendships with other children. It can be healthy for them to be around peers the same age and can help boost their self-esteem and allow open communication between you and your child. You can try and help their friends identify your child’s likes and dislikes and to encourage participation in all activities that they are part of (only if it is safe and comfortable to do so). Though making interpersonal connections with special needs kids can be difficult at first, children who show kindness and genuine support are the ones that make the greatest friends. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF You can’t have it all and if your child with special needs has consistently showed challenging behaviour, just remember that none of this is your fault. Doing your best to take care of them is a priority but also learning how to take better care of yourself is equally important too. If you need to recharge, find activities that help you relax and keep calm. Pick up a yoga class, treat yourself to a day spa or take yourself to your favourite cafe and have a coffee. Selfcare is important and we need to look after ourselves, especially when our stress levels are through the roof. Managing challenging behaviour in special needs kids has its unique challenges. Some days you’ll feel burnt out and cry, other times you’ll feel like a superhero surviving another day. Remember to not carry everything on your shoulders and ask for support when you really need it. You are not alone in this and even if it doesn’t feel like it, your child with special needs appreciates everything you do and does love you.

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EXCELLENCE

EXCELLENCE AWARDS

VOTE NOW Go To www.mychildmagazine.com.au

GOLD 2018

AUSTRALIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TOP PARENTING MAG

HOW TO ENCOURAGE NEW FATHERS Written by Lance Green Fatherhood is a big milestone for all of us. Compared to the different milestones we came across in the past, becoming a father is a lifetime commitment and it can be nerve-wracking and exciting all at once.

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DAD READ

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It’s funny how we underestimate parents when we’re not parents ourselves. It was easier back then to switch hats and have an opinion on what a parent should be, but now that the tables have turned, parenting can definitely shape your perspective on everything and provide a bigger picture on what it will look like in the future. How we nurture and care for our children says a lot about us as a whole and we must become forgiving of ourselves, especially at a time where we make mistakes. So, what encouraging advice do new fathers need at a stressful (yet incredible) time like this? DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP Asking for help doesn’t mean it’s a sign for weakness. We all face some scary obstacles in our lives and society expects us to hold everything together and to be “strong”. It’s important to encourage yourself and your other male friends/relatives to do the same when it comes to being a first time parent. In a time where we’re meant to be fearless and happy, there are a lot of battles to overcome when being a new father. Seek advice from those that have been through a similar experience as you: ask the big questions and never feel like you’re annoying anyone just because you’re learning. It’s all about persistence and being able to appreciate the wonders of parenting! Take Care of Your Relationship with your Partner It was all rainbows and sunshine when it came to the honeymoon period with your partner but we all know that doesn’t last forever. Now, you have to put in the effort and juggling a little member of the family. Sometimes it can be difficult taking on a new experience while caring for another person and that is understandable. We want to achieve the very best and we want the same for our partner. Just remember that

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they are exhausted too and need a break from the baby at times. Do your part and take initiative by picking up some extra house chores or organising a cheeky date occasionally. Just because you’ve “settled down” doesn’t mean you should lose the spark of what you and your partner have! HAVE ONE-ON-ONE TIME WITH YOUR BABY This one’s obvious, but having some oneon-one time with your newborn baby can

help you form a bond with your little one straight away. How interesting it is that a tiny human being can feel so connected to us: it’s almost as mind blowing like when the astronauts discovered the moon! Knowing things like skin-to-skin contact and reading the signs for when they need something also come under the fatherly duties as well. It also means getting to know your child from the very start! Stay present and your future self will thank you for it!

GET YOURSELF EDUCATED Education doesn’t have to come from books or research from the internet; it can be combined with the knowledge of others too. If you have friends that already have kids or you have a relative with great wisdom in parenting, listen closely and learn from them quickly. Absorb as much information as you can and you will eventually feel comfortable in knowing that you have what it takes to be a brilliant father. Have faith in yourself and never be afraid to keep learning. Parenting is a tough subject matter after all! TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF It’s easy to feel like you’re pushing yourself too hard and maybe you are. It doesn’t matter if you feel like you haven’t been putting in your A-game since you’ve started parenthood and that’s totally fine! You’ve got big shoes to fill when it comes to being a father and it takes years to even show that you’re “good” at it. There is no measurement of success when it comes to raising a child; you need to put in the effort and the time and to fully understand the impact of how you treat them and the values you instill in them. Though there’s a lot of pressure in being the perfect parent, remember there’s no such thing as perfection. We can make mistakes and learn from them. Throughout the journey, we need to understand that the only way to take care of the relationships we have with other people is to be able to take care of ourselves too. A note to all new fathers out there: you got this! Even if it feels like you’re running a marathon half the time, just remember how precious the moments you have with your little one. Make the most of them and enjoy the times you have with each other.

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How To Encourage Reading In Children With Special Needs Written by Jana Angeles

Reading is a wonderful activity all children can participate in. It allows them to gain listening and speaking skills while also admiring the concept of storytelling. Though children have different levels of communication, we can justify the fact that reading to children with special needs can benefit them immensely. It can enhance their understanding of the world and allow time to bond with you.

CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

There are so many books to choose from and it’s wonderful to think that literature has put a positive impact on our lives since we were children. Though some parents will struggle at first to read with their children with special needs, over time they will see their reactions and smiles that will make it all worthwhile. Here are some tips that can provide you with encouragement when reading to children with special needs: BE CONSISTENT If you aren’t getting any response from your children with special needs during storytime, don’t be worried. In this case, this is probably how they react and some struggle in showing emotion. There will be times where you’ll second guess your efforts and you may find it challenging to keep going, especially when you aren’t getting the response you want. Be patient and don’t be afraid to switch up books from time to time or stick to the same book if they show signs of enthusiasm. READ OUT LOUD TOGETHER You can create a closer bond with your child when you read out loud to them. Being able to act out voices of the characters as well as having that “storytime” voice can help your children with special needs take comfort in hearing your voice. They will appreciate how much effort you’re putting in and feel closer with you during the time you read to them. You will find that the more books you read, the better your narrator voice becomes and you’ll appreciate the meaningful lessons taught behind every story. USE TECHNOLOGY TO ASSIST YOU WITH READING Using a tablet or laptop can assist you with reading because it allows an increased engagement from your children with

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special needs. Buying interactive books that allow them to use their hands when it comes to touching certain objects or different clues can assist their journey in the literature world and be appreciative of the book’s graphics and content. Also, these technological devices can make it a fun adventure for you and your children because music is used in the background and interactive noises are part of the package when it comes to these books!

BUY INTERACTIVE BOOKS If you are old school and love buying books that aren’t digital, you can never go wrong with interactive books. There are plenty of story books that use different materials that make it more engaging, ie have cardboard flaps that you need to open up to progress to the next stages of the story or using unique materials that encourage the use of the five senses. Though these books can be pricey at times, interactive books are the best if you’re having trouble engaging your children with special needs. It will provide them with a unique experience that will open their minds to books that require interaction. SHOW ENTHUSIASM Enthusiasm is the key to anything and we understand that sometimes this can be difficult, especially if your children aren’t reacting well to the content of the books. It’s important to recognise that showing enthusiasm regardless can shape your child’s world and it will help them fit well into the routine of reading. Though the extra effort can be exhausting sometimes, you’ll find it rewarding to see your child engage with the material everyday. Their reactions will be different and unpredictable but you will be so glad to put on a smile on their face, even if it’s only for a few seconds! Reading is an important step for all children; it allows them to dream about possibilities and use their imagination. Books are so beneficial for children with special needs and can help boost their self-esteem and also provide a sense of self-awareness when it comes to their surroundings. Don’t be afraid to be consistent and patient - they pay off will come later down the track!

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TODDLER

Technology and todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s toddler - the benefits of using digital media Written by Genie Price Smartphones, laptops and tablets, oh my! Everywhere we turn, someone is plugged in and switched on. As parents, considering the use of technology, especially for children in the early years, can feel worrying. Many of us feel that being active, playing outside or reading a book is better for childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development.

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While physical activity, reading and other more “traditional” activities continue to play a critical role in a child’s health and development, a growing number of us rely on digital devices from time to time, especially to engage our child when we are busy with something else. A recent study undertaken in 2013 by Common Sense Media indicates that screen time is on average of 2 hours per day for children 0-8. From the same results states that 38% of under two’s studied, had access to and used a mobile device, daily. Some experts will argue that screen time for under two’s, is not recommended – however, as long as the time is balanced between a range of other activities, the learning from a tablet can be beneficial. Whether you choose to embrace it or escape it – you can find a balance. Here are 4 ways in which technology can support your toddler’s learning and development in the early years. 1. CATERS FOR VARIED LEARNING STYLES: We are not all made from the same mould. Toddlers and young children, especially, learn at their own pace. With an IPad or tablet, you can support your toddler’s learning style by presenting information in different ways. This works best when you understand what your toddler’s learning style is, then you can adequately cater to their needs and choose apps to suit. Learnsafe discuss learning styles and how technology can assist each type; Visual learning: Your child may be a visual learner if he’s the one flicking through the leaves of a book and playing with shapes and letters. He may also display a high level of observation and

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often enjoy doodling and drawing. As for mobile devices, they offer a wide variety of apps to suit a visual learner and you can support this by providing image-rich and artistic choices for your toddler. You can help your child to understand and remember new ideas and concepts by accessing apps which display clear and vibrant pictures – as it’s the best way to capture their attention. Kinaesthetic learning: Ever had a child that has to tap and touch everything? He might be a kinaesthetic learner. A kinaesthetic learner enjoys hands-on experiences and if you toddler is one of these he will benefit from a tablet/IPad because they interact directly with the screen. There are apps tailored to suit all learning types and some of which, require children to hold and change the orientation of the IPad. Interactive and touchable popup features will provide your toddler with a fun-filled experience. Auditory learning: Auditory learners truly enjoy speaking to and listening to others. These types of learners are best suited to apps which have music and songs! Audio features and audiobooks are available on most devices and help cater to this learner’s listening abilities. There are plenty of apps which will allow your toddler to record their own “babble” while talking aloud and then allowing them to replay it. Toddlers love to hear themselves and listen to it over and over. This helps them develop a sense of what they’ve learned. Special Needs: If you didn’t already know, IPads and tablets are great for children with special needs. • With over 20,000 apps available, there is

a section of apps that are dedicated to toddlers and children with special needs • Apps offer a variety which cater’s for all levels and abilities • Before IPad and tablets were around, assistive technology could be very costly. Even now, although some IPads sit within the higher price bracket – you can still get userfriendly and cost friendly device which you don’t need to be selling a limb for • Increases communication – developers have been able to adequately develop apps that allow for both verbal and nonverbal communicators to do just that – communicate. NB: Children with special needs all have an individual learning style that may sit within the 3 main styles, however, they also may need assistance from a support person, while they use a device. 2. BOOSTS COGNITIVE THINKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING: While many people fear failure, rejection and embarrassment – toddlers don’t. They like to take risks. While we don’t want them risking your address book, of course, making mistakes, observing the consequences and trying new approaches – can be risks they can take while on an IPad or tablet. Unlike passive media (such as TV), more engaging, interactive media and technology (such as educational games) can further promote your toddler to explore, problem solve, create, think, listen, make decisions, observe, and investigate ideas to improve their cognitive development the most. 3. PROMOTES EARLY LITERACY: Have you tried to engage your toddler in early literacy?

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Participants of a study in the 18-24 months age group were found to have increased in letter recognition and sound association with letters, through the use of a device. By reading eBooks or accessing stories online, your toddler can learn new words and proper ways to pronounce them. There are varied apps which promote early language development where you can provide a picture dictionary or flashcards for them to boost their vocabulary. NB: It should be highlighted that this increase in literacy was achieved through the use of high-quality educational apps and strong parental involvement. 4. SUPPORTS FINE MOTOR DEVELOPMENT: A recent study published in Frontiers of Psychology indicates that early touchscreen use, in particular, scrolling the screens – correlates with increased fine motor control in toddlers and by “swiping” the screen, your toddler is developing hand-eye coordination. Hand-eye-coordination is beneficial to supporting your child with handwriting at school and developing the skills for throwing a ball. In today’s world and because our education system expects it, children must learn the basics of using technology. As a parent, it’s entirely up to you how and at what age you start to use a device. But you can be assured that however you choose to use your time with your toddler, you can give them a head start with carefully supervised and appropriate use of mobile devices.

References: http://learnsafe.com/ www.commonsensemedia.org/ www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology

march 2018 | mychild

How Pet Ownership Can Positively Influence Your Children By Karli Steenkamp From cold creepy crawlies to warm and fuzzy little (or huge) pets can make children super excited and parents running for the hills when kids want to deviate from the normal cat or dog. We all remember our first pet and the one we had an extra special bond with. A pet is a huge responsibility and can’t be thrown in a cupboard with toys when kids are tired of playing with it. However there are so many positive influences a pet has on a child. It is a worthwhile commitment you as a family need to make, doesn’t matter what type of pet you have. The impact it have on children, makes it all worth it. “Animals are such agreeable friends. They ask no questions, they pass no criticism.”

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KIDS

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Dogs are a man’s best friend as the saying says and dogs can be amazing with children, but any animal can be a companion for a child. A friend that he or she can love; something that your child needs to take care of. A pet can cause for endless fun when children play with them. If you want a companion for your child a dog is always a good choice and will be a friend for life. Fish, snakes or spiders need less attention and won’t necessarily keep a child company. Companion animals, such as dogs can actually have a calming influence on kids. Dogs and cats show affection to their humans that care for them and that can build a child’s self-worth, self-esteem and social skills. They also learn empathy and compassion for others. Animals show appreciation to the owners that are looking after them and they become very loyal members of the family. According to The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne people with animals have less risk of cardiovascular problems than petfree people. Unfortunately having pets have their ups and downs. Pets don’t have a long life-span and losing a pet can be hard for a child, however it is a way of teaching your child about life and death. It is not an easy thing to get through however it teaches them coping skills to deal with loss. Whichever pet a child has, it teaches them responsibility. It is an enormous task to care for them as you can’t have a day off. Pets need food daily, let your child help you feed the pets. It shows them how to care for animals and when they can do it themselves it teaches them independence. They need to experience the good and

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the bad about having pets. Caring for them involves giving certain pets a bath. Cleaning up after the pets by washing tanks or cages or picking up the poop is just as important. To know that they are responsible for another life will give them great significance. Pets can help kids be active because they will need exercise. If your child takes the dog for a walk both gets exercise at the same time. It can be something you as a family do together. It is important to research what type of pet you want, what your family circumstances are. For instance if you live in a house or flat you will need a pet that will function well in those settings. Some pets need more attention than others. These are things you will have to consider. Some dogs and cats are great with young kids and others not so great. Make sure you

research the type of cat or dog and how they are around children. Pets are just as dependant on us as we are on them, although for different reasons. The love a child will have for a pet is priceless and teaches them lessons that will set them up for life. Guide them through how to look after their pets till they are independent and can look after the pets themselves. Pets will have a positive impact on everyone in the household’s life and that makes a pet part of the family.

Reference: Healthy Pets with Dr. Karen Becker Psychology today – Hal Herzog (Ph.D.) One green planet The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne

march 2018 | mychild

Nova Weetman

Nova

In 2015 someone I loved had a breakdown. They were missing in action for six months, incapable of working, eating or even getting out of bed. I was totally unprepared for the range of emotions I felt trying to love someone who was clinically depressed. I started with sympathy, but quickly moved onto frustration, resentment and rage. As an adult I could cope with these emotions, but what happens when a child is caught up in all of that? I think as parents we want to try and protect our children from the truth. From what we see are adult concepts and adult issues. But our children are smarter and more observant than we give them credit for. If they aren’t told the truth, then they invent their own version, and that can be far more frightening. I’m no expert on mental illness or depression or parenting. But my experience of how my children coped was that they wanted information. They wanted to understand – not everything, but enough so they weren’t left guessing.

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REAL LIFE KIDS

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Books have a huge role to play in the lives of young people. As parents we need to let our children read and choose the stories they want and need. They’ll stop reading if the books are too old or too difficult. My daughter has always wanted sad stories so that she can process things in her life through reading. But if the book is too sad then she’ll stop reading until she’s up for it. Because my daughter is a huge reader who uses books to help sort out things she’s feeling, I started writing The Secrets We Keep as a way for her and I to discuss what we were both feeling. Pretty soon we found a rhythm. I’d write and she’d edit. I discovered that she was editing the emotional pitch of the story, and through the main character of Clem Timmins (also 11) she was able to express exactly how she felt. As Clem became desperate to run away, so did my daughter. As Clem hid behind secrets about her family, so did my daughter. As Clem finally learned to face what was happening, so did my daughter. The book didn’t inform my daughter of how to be, she shaped the emotional terrain of the book. Without intending to write a middle grade novel that deals with secrets and mental illness, that’s what I did. I wrote it for me and I wrote it for her. I wrote it for us so we’d have some way to stay afloat while everything was coming apart around us. By the time the book was published, the person we loved had recovered. We’d all gone through a very difficult six months and come out the other end. Writing the second book, The Secrets We Share was not a sad process. It doesn’t deal with mental illness or depression in the same way. Instead Clem is facing the start of high school and all that it means.

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I decided to focus on that transition because I felt like it was time for Clem to experience something that all young people experience. I didn’t want her to feel alone in her experiences anymore. Also my daughter was about to start high school and I watched her grapple with all the usual anxiety around change. Would she be in a class with friends? Would she know what to wear? Would she cope with homework? They were all very normal concerns, but I felt like they hadn’t been written about much in Australian middle grade fiction. Middle grade fiction is not young adult fiction. It’s not dealing with the heaviness of teenage years, but nor should it shy away from the difficulties of these years. The character of Clem in the books is cranky and angry and unpredictable. In all the ways our kids are. In all the ways we are. She is my way into exploring this fascinating time between the protection and innocence of primary school and the fledgling sophistication of high school. A writer friend, Emily Gale, nailed it when she said it’s the period where books want to “get into young adult, has applied some lipgloss and is hiding its nerves”. My daughter has used reading as a way to process so many things. Without books I think she would have struggled to understand tough emotional issues. Hopefully my character of Clem is a way into some of these issues for other young readers too. Clem has all the usual problems with friends, parents, and expressing herself. She is about to dive into being a teenager, but before she does, she’s sitting on the edge, trying to work out what it’s all about. Just like I did. Just like my daughter did. Just like we all did.

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Visit www.oricom.com.au to ﬁnd your nearest stockist. Babysense2 is intended for use as an Infant Apnoea Alarm. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND USER GUIDE, USE ONLY AS DIRECTED.

march 2018 | mychild

MAKE IT WORK: MAINTAINING A LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIP WHEN YOU HAVE KIDS Written by Jana Angeles Long Distance Relationships are no walk in the park. Being worlds apart from your partner and your children can be difficult. In all honesty, you may have to put in even more work in the relationship compared to other people. It takes two to tango, so juggling long distance relationships with kids is like doing the dance but juggling at the same time.

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RELATIONSHIP

Whether your work requires you to travel abroad frequently or you’ve been given the opportunity to stay in a different country for work, don’t let family slip away from your priorities. Distance shouldn’t get in the way of your relationships if you put in the hard work. DECIDE WHAT TYPE OF COMMUNICATION YOU’LL BE USING Discuss with your partner what type of communication you’d like to use when maintaining the long distance relationship. With so many apps to choose from, gone are the days where letters and emails are written. You can easily video call each other using Facebook or Facetime, you can download WhatsApp and send each other pictures of things they’ve missed, providing a ‘catch up’ board they can look at. As long as both of you are meeting each other halfway, staying in touch will help strengthen the bonds of your relationship. Until you see each other again, it will make you thankful that there are so many options out there to keep in touch - you just need to choose which one works for the both of you. GIVE EACH SPACE WHEN NEEDED Although it may seem exciting to share some good news with your partner, recognise that at times, they will need space to do their own activities. Distance puts quite a strain on couples, especially those that live in completely different time zones and work schedules. The best way to work around it is to plan ahead when it comes to taking calls and also respecting the other person’s priorities. Don’t take it personally if your partner has different priorities and can’t speak with you at this present time. You’ll find the groove in your relationship again; just give each other the space you need to grow as individuals

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too while being apart. BE PREPARED THAT YOUR NEEDS MIGHT CHANGE Obviously the dynamic between you and your partner are quite different now that you put distance into the equation. You may come up with a few bumps along the way. Whether it be your kids getting unexpectedly sick or going through a financial hiccup, it’s important to maintain

an open dialogue between the two of you when it comes to unexpected issues. Though it can be difficult to keep in touch with each other at times, speak up when needed and don’t try and take on the problems you have and find solutions yourself. Get all the help and support you need from your partner when needed. KNOW THAT YOUR RELATIONSHIP NEEDS CONSISTENCY

When you’ve been in a long-term relationship for a while, the “honeymoon phase” may have faded. It’s not easy keeping the spark up between you and your partner, especially when you’re far apart. However, it’s no excuse to add excitement to your relationship one way or another. Doing the little things such as sending unexpected care packages, writing encouraging emails or being available when things get a tad stressful all count. Both of you need to show consistency because in the end, it helps your relationship thrive while also setting a good example for your kids on what a model relationship should be. KEEP THE KIDS WELL INFORMED AND STAY IN TOUCH As much as you miss your partner, always get the kids involved. Whether it means holding family conferences on Skype or helping each other write handwritten letters and sending the drawings made by the kids, this will keep them welcome and happy that they haven’t been forgotten by the parent who is overseas. Though the distance can make them feel sad at times, remind your children that it won’t be long until they see the other parent again. It will bring them comfort knowing that they are still loved and cared for despite the distance. Long distance relationships can be rewarding because you ultimately place a lot of trust and commitment on your partner and your family. When you put kids into the equation, things can be difficult and there will be times where some problems will arise. Like in any sort of relationship, it’s important to maintain an open communication with each other and to do your best to stay involved in your partner’s and children’s lives.

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FASHION

p Love me Petti Romper rrp $39.95 t Melody Tutu Dress rrp $69.95 Holly Floral rrp $44.95 u q Rosie Pinafore Dress rrp $49.95

z Rose Tutu rrp $44.95 pRosie Romper rrp $49.95 t Holly Floral rrp $44.95

Arabella Baby tutu rrp $44.95 u Candice Lace Dress $49.95q Ditsy Days Romper rrp $49.95 y

p Emilia Dress rrp $59.95 Flutterbye Tutu rrp $49.95 { t Blossom Ruffle Tutu rrp $49.95 Millie Flower Headband rrp $19.95 u

z Blossom Ruffle Tutu rrp $49.95 Margaret Lace Dress rrp $59.95 p t Lola Flower Crown rrp $24.95 Stevie Bell Sleeve rrp $69.95 u

www.designerkidz.com.au

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shop

KIDS fashion

march 2018 | mychild

shop

KIDS UNDER

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S IN OUR STORES THIS MONTH BABY

GIRLS

Baby Set $25.00 rrp Baby Girl Gold Star Metallic Ballet $10.00 rrp Toddler Plain Skivvy $5.00 rrp Puffa Vest $15.00 rrp Legging $8.00 rrp

BESTANDLESS.COM.AU

Bunny Tutu Dress $49.95 rrp Rib Full length Tight $14.95 rrp Bunny Mary Janes $39.95 rrp SEEDHERITAGE.COM

UNDER

Floral Embroidered Top $49.95 rrp Denim Pinnafore $49.95 rrp Irridescent High Tops $69.95 rrp

SEEDHERITAGE.COM

Moschino Graphic Tunic and Leggings $146.00 rrp MELLIJOE.COM

Gucci Two Material Dress $470.00 rrp Repetto Patent Leather Flats $288.00 rrp MELIJOE.COM

SPLURGE march 2018 | mychild

shop

KIDS

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S IN OUR STORES THIS MONTH BABY

BOYS

Baby Set $25.00 rrp Soft Sole Hiking boot $10.00 rrp BESTANDLESS.COM.AU

UNDER

Jersey Pant $8.00 rrp Puffa Vest $20.00 rrp T-Shirt $10.00 rrp BESTANDLESS.COM.AU

Knit Booties $39.95 rrp Striped Rugby Tee $29.95 rrp Cuffed Harem Pant $29.95 rrp

UNDER

SEEDHERITAGE.COM

Pom Pom Bear Tee $29.95 rrp Knee Dart Denin Terry $49.95 rrp Canvas Pull On Runner $29.95 rrp SEEDHERITAGE.COM

Ralph Lauren Cotton Pique Shirt And Seersucker Pants $146.00 rrp MELIJOE.COM

SPLURGE

Karl Lagerfeld Kids Bad Boy T-Shirt $395.00 rrp Armani Slim Fit Jeans $189.00 rrp Fendi Neoprene Teddy Jacket $72.50 rrp MELIJOE.COM

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INTERIORS

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GET THE LOOK:

interiors Leah Shannon is a designer and owner of Parade and Company, a lifestyle brand specialising in decor for childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rooms. She has 15+ years experience in design and a passion for creating childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spaces that inspire, educate and spark the imagination.

march 2018 | mychild

Credit: Lauren Stauffer, @laurelrosedesign

Wallpaper custom pricing buyshehe.com

march 2018 | mychild

Wire Basket $100.00 rrp fermliving.com

Cot Sheets $29.00 rrp thelandofnod.com

Pendant Light $220.00 rrp muuto.com

Sheep Mobile $197.00 rrp blablakids.com

Sailboat Pillow $70.00 rrp blablakids.com

Rocker $916.00 rrp cb2.com

Table $20.00 rrp target.com.au

Cot $749.00 rrp designkids.com.au march 2018 | mychild

Animal Printable $7.00+ rrp etsy.com/ LamourFouPrintShop

Cot $320.00 rrp homecentre.com

Blanket $45.00 rrp hm.com Rug $134.00 rrp thebowerycompany.com

Wall Shelves $180.00 rrp ubabub.com 100

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Wallpaper $58.00+ rrp paper-pop.com

Credit: Kathryn Hawkes, @houseofhawkes

Cactus Cushion $79.00 rrp leoandbellow.com.au

Pendant Light $230 rrp white-moss.com

Elephant Head $189.00 rrp designstuff.com.au march 2018 | mychild

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TOY REVIEWS

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TOY REVIEWS REVIEWED BY SHEREE ECHLIN

JELLYCAT SMALL BASHFUL LEMON BUNNY Soft to touch, cute as a button and full of silly, citrussy fun, it’s Bashful Lemon Bunny. Sweet as pie, with long playful ears, this is one cuddly bunny. Fond of snuggles and plenty of giggles, this bright chum is a friend to all. Have a bobtail ball and take Bunny along for zingy hops and lemony bops everywhere you go.

Our verdict This is one cute little bunny who will steal your heart with a pair of flippy floppy ears. A perfect addition to a newborn’s nursery, a toddler’s bed or even an office desk if you want to add a little splash of colour to your working day. Bashful Lemon Bunny will give you the cuddle you need and brighten up anyone’s day.

4/5 104

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Available from: Independence Studios - isgift.com and other selected gift retailers

rrp $23.95

4/5

METALLIC GEMSTONE PUTTY All that glitters is not just gold. In this case, you can have the best of both sparkly worlds with a choice of gold or silver metallic gemstone putty. Stretch it, snap it, bounce it and watch it melt! This seriously sparkly putty stretches, bounces, snaps, tears and moulds to any shape without damaging its beauty.

or even make multiple shapes, whatever your imagination fancies. This is one for the little and big kids alike, it’s hard to say who will get the most fun out of it! But be mindful where you play with it and ensure it’s kept in the container when not in use.

Our Verdict There’s something magical about glitter, but throw it into putty and you’ll find yourself mesmerised for ages. You can do pretty much anything with this putty. Roll it into a ball and throw into the air. Stretch it and snap it in half

Available from Independence Studios - isgift.com and other selected gift retailers

rrp $6.99

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105

LEAP FROG TAD’S GET READY FOR SCHOOL BOOK

It’s time to get ready for school! This book contains 12 interactive pages which will make learning fun and easily introduce ABCs, numbers 1-10, colours, animals, shapes, emotions, music and more! Touch the pictures on each page and the book will come to life with learning phrases and sounds. There’s also a music button which plays six different songs and light flashes in time to the music and a clock to help with learning how to tell the time. This book provides levelled learning which includes two levels and a quiz mode to grow with your child.

4/5

core learning skills as they begin preparing for school. The levelled learning and quiz mode are a great way to help your child learn before moving on to the next level and the encouraging voices and interactive touch are sure to pique your child’s interest and keep them coming back for more. Although a great tool to help kids learn, it could have been a bit more advanced in some aspects by including more numbers, animals and colours. It is suitable for children aged two and up but there’s never any harm in starting kids that little bit earlier either!

Our verdict A bright, colourful and interactive tool which is perfect to help your child gain some of their

rrp $31.99 Available from: Big W and other toy retailers

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VTECH WRITE & RACE LIGHTNING MCQUEEN Learn to write letters and numbers through five fun activities. Trace the lights and play with your favourite Cars characters. Using the chunky, easy grip stylus, children will love tracing the lights and playing with their favourite race car. Vivid light-up display gives stroke-by-stroke guidance for writing letters and numbers and encourages children to follow the lights to learn. Press one of the 26 letter or 10 number buttons on the keyboard to learn phonics, letters and numbers. Encourages early writing skills, memory skills, language development and independent play.

Our verdict If you have a little Lightning McQueen fan (boy or girl) in your house, this is the perfect opportunity for them to learn while they have a bit of fun with their favourite character. Your child can develop or further their writing skills by tracing the LED lights stroke by stroke and add to their language skills with the introduction of phonics and new vocabulary. It’s also a great independent play tool with fun characters and interactive learning. There’s plenty of lights, bells and whistles to keep them entertained for hours on end. But never fear parents, there is volume control for quieter play and don’t worry if they get carried away and pretend it’s a race car, they can have a little bit of fun with this durable design.

4/5

rrp $29.00 Available from: Dick Smith, Big W and other leading toy retailers

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107

Fast

FOOD

GET THE LITTLE ONES INVOLVED TO HELP CREATE MASTER MEALS USING OUR RECIPES THAT ARE KID FRIENDLY & CAN BE MADE WITH LITTLE EFFORT.

hot cross scones

Ingredients 0.15 Prep 0.15 Cook Servings 15

Method

• Melted butter, to grease

• 55g (1/3 cup) currants

• 300g (2 cups) self-raising flour

• 125ml (1/2 cup) milk

• 2 tablespoons icing sugar mixture

• 80g dark chocolate, finely chopped

Step 2: Sift together the flour and icing sugar in a large bowl. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Add the currants and stir to combine. Make a well in the centre and pour in the milk. Use a round-bladed knife in a cutting motion to mix until evenly incorporated and the mixture begins to hold together. Step 3: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until smooth. Use a lightly floured rolling pin to roll dough out to about march 2018 | mychild

• Milk, extra, to brush

• 80g chilled butter, cubed

Step 1: Preheat oven to 220°C. Brush a baking tray with melted butter to lightly grease.

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Photo Credit: Ben Dearnley

1.5cm thick. Use a 5cm-diameter pastry cutter dipped in flour to cut 15 scones from the dough. Place scones on the tray about 5mm apart. Brush tops with extra milk. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden and scones sound hollow when tapped on top. Set aside for 30 minutes to cool. Step 4: Meanwhile, place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan half-filled with simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Stir until the chocolate melts and is smooth. Spoon into a sealable plastic bag and cut 1 corner to make a 5mm opening. Pipe the chocolate in a cross on top of each scone. Set aside for 5 minutes to set.

french toast with figs

Ingredients 0.05 Prep 0.05 Cook Serves 4

Photo Credit: John Paul Urizar

• 80ml (1/3 cup) thin cream

• 40g butter

• 2 eggs, lightly whisked

• 4 day-old hot cross buns, thickly sliced

• 2 teaspoons caster sugar • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 4 fresh figs, quartered • Maple syrup, to serve

Method Step 1: Place the cream, egg, sugar and cinnamon in a medium bowl and whisk with a fork until well combined.

Step 3: Place French toast on serving plates. Top with figs and drizzle with maple syrup. Serve immediately.

Step 2: Melt half the butter in a large nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat until foaming. Dip half the bun slices, 1 slice at a time, in the egg mixture and place in the hot pan. Cook for 1 minute each side or until golden brown. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining butter, bun slices and egg mixture.

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prawn, dill & fennel salad with buttermilk dressing

Ingredients 0.20 Prep 0.05 Cook Servings 6

Method

• 1kg medium uncooked prawns, peeled (tails intact), deveined • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill leaves • 1 medium pink grapefruit, peeled, segmented • 1/2 cup buttermilk

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup whole-egg mayo

• 120g baby spinach and rocket

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Step 2: Meanwhile, make dressing. Combine buttermilk, mayonnaise and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Cover, refrigerate until required. march 2018 | mychild

salad mix

• 2 baby fennel bulbs, trimmed, very thinly sliced

Step 1: Combine prawns, oil and garlic in a bowl. Season with pepper. Cover, refrigerate for 30 minutes.

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Photo Credit: Mark O’Meara

Step 3: Heat a char-grill or barbecue plate to medium-high. Cook prawns, turning, for 3 to 5 minutes or until changed in colour and cooked through. Transfer to a bowl. Add fennel, onion, spinach mixture, dill and grapefruit. Step 4: Toss gently to combine. Serve the salad drizzled with dressing.

cauliflower, leek and blue cheese bake

Ingredients 0.20 Prep 0.30 Cook Servings 6

Method

Photo Credit: Berni Smithies

• 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets

• 50g butter

• 3 bacon rashers, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup (35g) plain flour

• 1 leek, pale section only, thinly sliced

• 2 cups (500ml) milk

• 150g blue cheese, coarsely chopped

Step 1: Preheat oven to 200°C. Cook the cauliflower in a saucepan of boiling water for 5 mins or until just tender. Drain well. Transfer to a 6-cup (1.5L) ovenproof dish. Step 2: Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add the bacon and leek and cook, stirring, for 5 mins or until the leek softens and bacon is light golden. Arrange the leek and bacon over the cauliflower in the dish. Sprinkle with half the blue cheese. Step 3: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the flour and cook,

• 1/2 cup (60g) coarsely grated cheddar

stirring, for 2 mins or until the mixture bubbles and thickens slightly. Add the milk and use a balloon whisk to stir until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, for 5-6 mins or until the sauce boils and thickens. Remove from heat. Add the cheddar and remaining blue cheese and stir until the cheese melts and mixture is smooth. Season to taste. Pour the hot sauce evenly over the cauliflower mixture in the dish. Step 4: Bake for 15 mins or until cauliflower mixture is golden brown and heated through. Serve immediately. march 2018 | mychild

113

beer battered barramundi with horseradish mayo

Photo Credit: Steve Brown

Ingredients 0.15 Prep 0.15 Cook Servings 4

• 1/2 cup light sour cream

• 750g barramundi fillets

• 1/4 cup whole egg mayonnaise

• 1 1/4 cups (185g) plain flour

• 2 tablespoons horseradish

• 375ml beer

• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

• Vegetable oil, for deep frying

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

• Lemon wedges, to serve

• 1 egg yolk

• Rocket salad, to serve

Method Step 1: Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, horseradish, zest and parsley in a bowl and then set aside. Step 2: Cut fish into bite-sized pieces and toss in 1/4 cup of the flour. Whisk egg yolk and beer together until well combined. Sift remaining flour over egg mixture and whisk to form a smooth batter. Dip floured fish into batter and allow excess to drip away. Deep fry in batches until golden. Step 3: Serve fish with rocket salad, lemon wedges and mayonnaise.

114

march 2018 | mychild

broccoli and apple salad

Ingredients 0.15 Prep Servings 6

• 2 medium heads broccoli

olive oil

• 1 large pink lady apple, thinly sliced

• 1 teaspoon wholegrain mustard

• 4 radish, trimmed, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives

• 80g baby spinach

• 1/3 cup chopped pecans

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar • 2 tablespoons extra virgin

Method Step 1: Remove florets from broccoli stalks. Cut 1 stalk into matchsticks. Discard remaining stalk. Place broccoli florets and stalk, apple, radish and baby spinach in a bowl. Toss to combine (see notes). Step 2: Place vinegar, oil, mustard and chives in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk to combine. Step 3: Arrange broccoli mixture on a platter. Drizzle with dressing. Sprinkle with pecans. Serve.

march 2018 | mychild

115

creme brulee easter eggs

Photo Credit: Mark Roper

Ingredients 025 Prep 0.20 Cook Makes 8

• 8 eggs

scraped

• 1/2 cup (110g) caster sugar • 600ml thickened cream

• 1/2 cup (75g) icing sugar, sifted

• 3 vanilla beans, split, seeds

Method Step 1: Carefully remove the top of each egg using a serrated knife. Separate the egg from the yolk by passing through your fingers. (The eggwhites will keep frozen for up to 1 month.) Wash out eggshells and dry carefully with paper towel. Return to the egg carton. Place yolks in a bowl with caster sugar and beat until pale with electric beaters (try to not incorporate too much air into the mixture).

116

Step 2: Bring cream and vanilla pods and seeds to just below boiling point in a pan over medium-high heat. Pour hot cream over the eggs, whisking constantly until combined. Wash out pan, then return custard mixture to very low heat (a simmer pad is ideal for this step). Cook, stirring constantly, for 8-10 minutes until custard march 2018 | mychild

is thick and coats the back of a spoon (watch very carefully towards the end or the custard may scramble). Step 3: Strain into a jug, discarding vanilla pods, then pour into eggshells, filling to top. Use the remaining custard to fill four to six 100ml ramekins. (If not using eggshells, fill eight 100ml ramekins with the custard mixture.) Chill overnight. Step 4: Just before serving, sprinkle brulees with icing sugar. Transfer eggs to egg cups, then use a kitchen blowtorch to caramelise tops until crisp and golden. (For ramekins, you can use a blowtorch or place under a hot grill for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the sugar.)

chocolate Easter crackles

Ingredients 0.02 Prep Servings 4

Photo Credit: Ben Dearnley

• 200g Mars bars, chopped • 2 tablespoons thin cream • 2 teaspoons cocoa powder, sifted • 3 cups Rice Bubbles • 20 small Easter eggs, to decorate

Method Step 1: Place the Mars bars, thin cream and cocoa in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (get an adult to help), making sure bowl does not touch water. Stir until melted and smooth. Place Rice Bubbles in a large bowl, pour in Mars bar mixture and stir until well combined. Pile

mixture into paper cases and decorate each with an Easter egg. Place in the fridge until firm.

All recipes sourced from taste.com.au march 2018 | mychild

117

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favourite FOOD 18

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Oricom Babysense2 Infant Breathing Movement Monitor oricom.com.au 24

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favourite BABY 38

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favourite TABLE

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Savannah And Three Bassinet Sheet savannahandthree.com

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Bambo Nature Nappies bambo-nature.com.au 64

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Mustela Vitamin Barrier Cream 123 mustela.com.au

Little Bairn Organic Bottom Balm littlebairn.com.au

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BasiK Organics Bottom Balm basikorganics.com.au

GroVia GroVia Magic grovia.com.au

Aromababy Natural Skincare Barrier Balm aromababy.com

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Sudocrem Healing Cream sudocrem.com.au

Wotnot Baby Balm wotnot.com.au

Little Bairn Natural Baby Powder littlebairn.com.au

GAIA Natural Baby Natural Baby Powder gaiaskinnaturals.com

Little Innoscents Intensive Soothing Cream littleinnoscents.com.au

GAIA Natural Baby Soothing Cream gaiaskinnaturals.com

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favourite WIPES Baby U Goat Milk Wipes babyu.com.au

WaterWipes The Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Purest Baby Wipe waterwipes.com 70

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WOTNOT Naturals WOTNOT Biodegradable Baby Wipes wotnot.com.au

Little Innoscents Natural Baby Wipes littleinnoscents.com.au

FAV O U R I T E B A B Y W I P E S

GAIA Natural Baby Bamboo Baby Wipes gaiaskinnaturals.com

Pea Pods Pea Pods Bamboo Wet Wipes peapods.com.au

Bambino Mio MioWipes bambinomio.com/au/

Bambino Mio Reusable Baby Wipes bambinomio.com/au/

Baby U Bamboo Wipes babyu.com.au

Mustela Stelatopia Replenishing Cleansing Wipes mustela.com.au excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite

BAG

Lassig Rosie Bag lassig.com.au

Skip Hop Greenwich Simply Chic Backpack thestorknest.com.au

Babymel Robyn Convertible Back Pack babymel.com.au

Storksak Jude Nappy Bag storksak.com.au

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

FAV O U R I T E N A P P Y B A G

Babymel George Back Pack babymel.com.au

MiaMily Hipster Plus miamily.com

Petunia Pickle Bottom Diaper Bags petunia.com

Storksak Noa Nappy Bag storksak.com.au excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite FASHION LABEL

Designer Kidz designerkidz.com.au

Seed Heritage seedheritage.com

Petit Bamboo petitbamboo.com.au

Rashoodz Swimwear rashoodz.com.au

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FAV O U R I T E B A B Y FA S H I O N L A B E L

Anarkid anarkid.com.au

Attipas Australia attipas.com.au

Ciciban Shoes cicibankidsshoes.com.au

Hootkid hootkid.com

excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite

MUM PRODUCT Aromababy Natural Skincare Stretched to the Limit aromababy.com

Nibbly Bits Nibbly Bits Abacus Necklace nibblybits.net 76

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PSI Bands Morning Sickness & Anti-Nausea Travel Band lifestyleparenting.com

Bola Bola Ball bolaball.com.au

FAV O U R I T E M U M P R O D U C T

Medela Ultra Stretch Nursing Bra medela.com.au

Crane Droplet Humidifier thesleepstore.com.au

WIPOUCH Refillable Wet Wipes Pouch petitevienna.com.au

SiliMama SiliMama DIY Kit silimama.com

Hydralyte IceBlocks hydralyte.com.au

Boobie Bikkies Boobie Bikkies boobiebikkies.com.au excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite

BABYinkÂŽ Colour Ink-less Print Kit babyink.com.au 78

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

Jade Read Photography Baby + Maternity Photography jadereadphotography.com.au

FAV O U R I T E K E E P S A K E

Rhicreative Baby Photo Cards rhicreative.com.au

Pearhead Belly Casting Kit pearhead.com

Mini Peep Personalised Baby Keepsake Memory Box spatz.com.au

Baby Made The Baby Inkless Print Kit babymade.com.au excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite

FASHION

STORE

The Sleep Store thesleepstore.co.nz

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

FAV O U R I T E FA S H I O N O N L I N E S T O R E

Savannah and Three savannahandthree.com.au

Designer Kidz designerkidz.com.au

Baby Donkie babydonkie.com.au

hipkin hipkin.com.au

Cheeky Chompers cheekychompers.com.au

Mummaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Helpers mummaslittlehelpers.com.au

excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite

PORTABLE

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

SEAT

FAV O U R I T E P O R TA B L E C H A I R

Munchkin GoBoost Travel Booster Seat au.munchkin.com

Toosh Coosh Toosh Coosh Booster Seat lifestyleparenting.com

Mamas and Papas Baby Bud mamasandpapas.com.au

Maxi-Cosi Luna maxi-cosi.com.au

Infasecure Spectrum Quantum infasecure.com.au excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite

HIGHCHAIR

Ingenuity Trio 3-In-1 Smartclean High Chair ingenuitybaby.com

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

FAV O U R I T E H I G H C H A I R

Stokke Tripp Trapp stokke.com

OXO TOT Tot Sprout High Chair oxo.com

Phil & Teds Poppy Highchair philandteds.com

Mothers Choice 3 in 1 Egg highchair motherschoice.com.au

excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite

PRAM Redsbaby Jive redsbaby.com.au

Mamas and Papas Mamas & Papas Ocarro mamasandpapas.com.au

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

Silver Cross Wave silvercross.com.au

FAV O U R I T E P R A M

Stokke TStokke Xplory stokke.com

Redsbaby Metro redsbaby.com.au

Silver Cross Pioneer silvercross.com.au

Baby Jogger City Select LUX babyjoggerstrollers.com.au

excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite Baby Jogger City Tour babyjoggerstrollers.com.au

Baby Jogger City Mini GT babyjoggerstrollers.com.au

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

FAV O U R I T E S T R O L L E R

Redsbaby Jive redsbaby.com.au

Redsbaby Metro redsbaby.com.au

Silver Cross Zest Stroller silvercross.com.au

Bugaboo Fox bugaboo.com/AU excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite

TEETHING

Cheeky Chompers Chewy - Lovable Hippo Teething Toy cheekychompers.com.au 90

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

FAV O U R I T E T E E T H I N G P R O D U C T

The Mibblers The Mibblers themibblers.bigcartel.com

Nibbly Bits Nibbly Bits - Flat Stackable Bangles www.nibblybits.net

Sophie the Giraffe Sophie the Giraffe lesfolies.com.au

Jellystone Designs Rainbow Stacker Teether and Toy jellystonedesigns.com.au excellence awards 2016 | mychild

favourite

TRAINING AID

Wee Target Toilet Target weetarget.com.au

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

Baby BeeHinds Organic Cotton & Waterproof Training Pants babybeehinds.com.au

FAV O U R I T E T O I L E T T R A I N I N G A I D

Wee Man Big Boy Toilet Trainer lifestyleparenting.com

Bambino Mio Potty Training Pants bambinomio.com/au

Pea Pods Bamboo Training Pants peapods.com.au

Lupi Lu Dual Toilet Seat lupilu.com.au

excellence awards 2016 | mychild

excellence awards 2017 | mychild

vote WWW.MYCHILDMAGAZINE.COM.AU

excellence awards 2016 | mychild