PakMag Cairns - January 2014

pakmag JAN 2014

Cairns

EzEine FMRaga

ISSUE 79

magazine of choice for local families

Summer Fun!

Your Guide to School

Kids

MINI MAG Inside

Holiday Activities

Return

to Work

Event

Guide

Complete Guide of January Events

Tips for Mums returning to the workforce

Back to

SCHOOL Cover photo: Insight Creative

• Cool for School Products

• Getting Organised

win a McDonalds Party for 14 of your friends

Details page 32

41

54

51 publisher

Tourism and Events Queensland

Contents

notes

Hello and welcome to our first edition for 2014! I can't believe it, but Jordan starts Prep this month. They say time flies, but I honestly can't believe my little baby is off to school! He is so excited and ready, in fact, he's way more ready than I am. I cried in his last few days of Kindy so I am probably going to be a blubbering mess on his first day of school so I apologise in advance to all you parents who have to witness it!

The start of the school year also means a lot of mums start thinking about returning to work so if this is you see pages 10-11 for some tips. We've also got lots of ideas for keeping the kids entertained through the rest of the holidays so there should be no excuses for boredom!

I hope you enjoy this edition and remember to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag.

Bree pakmag

JAN

parents 02 What’s New 05 Show & Tell 09 Real Lives 10

Mums Returning to Work

13

The Art of Letter Writing

14

Emotional Intelligence

17

Canine Classrooms

19 Saver Plus 21 Cool for School

31 Kids MiniMag

babies 39 Baby News: Baby Sign Language

things to win

23 PakHealth 24 Nutrition 27

PakRecipes

06 WIN a Family Organiser Calendar 06 WIN a TMNT Pillow Pet

29 What’s On

32 WIN a McDonald's Kids Party

31 Mini Mag

62 WIN a bag of Hill's Pet Food

39 PakBaby 43 Ages & Stages 45 School Holiday Activity Guide

Publisher: Bree James Editor: Elaine Seager What’s On/MiniMag: Robyn Christensen Sales & Biz Development: Angelina Mortley Design & Layout: Trina Jensen Articles: Elaine Seager, Amanda Cranston & submitted writers

49 Split, Jump and Tumble

Phone: 4053 3331 Fax: 4053 3350 Email: info@pakmag.com.au Address: Level 2, 68 Abbott Street Virginia House, Cairns QLD 4870 Postal: PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870

59 The Art of Facepainting

Disclaimer: No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The expressions expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

kids

50 Magnetic Island 53 TRAVEL: Great Aussie Holidays

cover Model: Jack Eggington Photography: Thanks to the team at Insight Creative

54 HOME: Playful Gardens 57

DIY Home

60 Out & About 63 Cairns Vet Clinics 64 Crazy Cooking

Find PakMag exclusively in:

www.pakmag.com.au

1

inBRIEF Cairns Basketball

Super Stars Wanted 13-19 January Cairns Central

January what’s new

Children's Exhibition

b Mummy Central Clu

Coffee & Cake

1-25 January If you can sing, dance, act, play an

Cairns Regional Gallery

Voucher

instrument, make people laugh or entertain people in some other way, now is the time to show off your talent in

The Great Art Hunt is a fun-filled interactive children’s

Cairns Central’s ‘Search for a Super Star’

exhibition that will be coming to the Gallery for the

Talent Quest. The heats will be held 13-17

summer holidays. Developed by local artist and school

January (11am & 1pm) and the Grand

teacher Josie Lowerson, it takes children on a journey of

Final is at 11am on Saturday 19 January.

discovering familiar features in our local environment

You can earn yourself some great prizes

whilst collecting objects to be used in art activities.

and gain valuable experience from taking part. Entrants can be aged 5-17 years old!

For more information and entry forms go to cairnscentral.com.au

Woree Wipe Out

MUMMY CENTRAL CLUB MEMBERS

Cost: $5 adults, free for children under 16. For more information go to www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

FREE coffee & cake voucher

or call 4046 4800.

Present this voucher and your Mummy Central Card at the Centre Stage Café between 9-10am on 14 January to redeem a FREE coffee & cake.

Phantom of the Opera 17 January - 1 February Cairns Civic theatre

Offer is for Mummy Central Club members only.

Season SIGN ON 1 February (10am-2pm) Bendigo Bank Basketball Centre

If you are not yet a member it is very simple to join. All you need to do is fill out an application form from the Customer Service Desk or sign up online at www.cairnscentral.com.au

This award-winning musical will be performed by

Cairns Basketball is gearing up for its 56th year of competition with its Junior Sign On Day

Cairns Choral Society later this month. The show tells

on Saturday 1 February. Last year Cairns Basketball’s junior representative teams won three

the tale of a disfigured musical genius who haunts the

State Championships, came Runners Up in two State Championships and third in another

catacombs beneath the Paris Opera, holding a reign of

State Championships. Six out of the seven Cairns Basketball Teams that competed in the

terror over its occupants. He falls madly in love with an

2013 Championships in the U12 and U14 Boys and Girls division won Gold, Silver or Bronze

innocent young chorus dancer, Christine, and devotes

medals. If your child is interested in playing basketball by joining the Tiny Taipans or Girls on

himself to nurturing her extraordinary talents by exerting his strange sense of control.

the Ball programs or by joining one of the four clubs, go to www.cairnsbasketball.com

Check out the Exclusive offers & discounts from various Cairns Central retailers. See www.cairnscentral.com.au for this month’s offers.

pakmag

For more information contact Jade on 4041 2145 or email admin@cairnsbasketball.com

There will be two family nights on 21 & 22 January only. Cost: $40 adults, $25 kids aged 3-15 years. Book through Ticketlink.

Tue, Thu, Sat & Sun (1pm-3pm) Woree Aquatic & Sport Centre

Local Deals If you love a deal check out the recently established website at www.ilovecairnsdeals.com.au. The site

If you’re looking for another ‘wet’ activity option to escape the heat during the holidays check out the new 18 metre inflatable obstacle course at Woree Aquatic & Sport Centre that challenges kids to get to the end without ‘wiping out’. Meanwhile mum and dad can laze around by the pool or enjoy a coffee from the café. The family rate during the holidays is $20 for two adults and two children. It is available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and the weekends (1-3pm).

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www.pakmag.com.au

was created to provide exclusive local deals to an active online audience. Locals who a love deal can easily search for a bargain on the website and share them to others via social media. Businesses struggling to reach this new audience are encouraged to join up for free and advertise their deals. The site is FREE for everyone to use. www.pakmag.com.au

3

Show &Tell

TOP pakmag

5

PakMag Top 5 Picnic Spots

The latest news, products and tips in the world of families and kids Get to Know

[1] Crystal Cascades/The Rocks [2] Babinda Boulders [3] Mossman Gorge [4] Behana Creek [5] Davies Creek

Allergy Free Tracey Patterson and her family are the hosts at the award-winning Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park. The Park has been undergoing some major improvements over the last six years, which has just been topped off with a brand new water park.

[1] What brought you to Kurrimine

friend’s houses and play on the beach. If

Beach? We stumbled into Kurrimine Beach

they muck up, we know about it before

quite by accident when we were travelling

they get home!

around the country in our caravan. We only booked into the park for two nights but two years later we are still here!

[4] What can visitors expect from a holiday at there? This is a good oldfashioned family holiday destination where

[2] What do you love about running a

families can enjoy each other’s company.

If you’re looking for help in choosing ‘additive-

caravan park? We love the fact that, unlike

There’s so much for the kids to do that the

free’ options for school lunch boxes, check out

a motel or resort, we actually get to meet

mums actually get to relax. Our returning

the Additive Free Shopping Guide available at

and mingle with our guests. Everybody is

guests always say they appreciate not being

www.additivefreepantry.com. It is very helpful

out and about and there is always a ‘happy

bombarded all the time with “I want’s"

for any parent who is keen to provide food free

hour’ to attend.

[3] What do you love about living in Kurrimine Beach? Kurrimine Beach is in a time warp. The kids have the freedom to

4

ride their bikes in the street, walk to their www.pakmag.com.au

from harmful food additives which may cause For more information about Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park call 4065 6166 or

hyperactivity, sleeplessness, learning difficulties and asthma, just to name a few.

go to www.kurrimine.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

5

Show &Tell

SAFETY Initiative

Got something to share or shout about?

Email us at elaine@pakmag.com.au

Get Organised Great Idea

Hi-Viz Kids A new program was recently launched to ensure all kids are highly visible to road users in and out of school zones.

As a consequence of this, these high visibility (fluorescent) ergonomic backpacks have been designed to keep kids safe.

They have also been endorsed by spinal health professionals.

Available at www.schoolbags.com.au/hi-viz-kids.html

NEW Pillow Pets If one of your goals for 2014 is to get more organised maybe you need one of these family organiser calendars.

They are perfect for busy families since there is space for up to six family members to record what they are up to on any given day.

The latest characters to be turned into cute and cuddly Pillow Pets

WIN a Family Organiser Calendar

are the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. These super soft stuffed animals double up as pillows and not surprisingly are very popular with kids.

For your chance to WIN a Family Organiser Calendar thanks to www.smartcalendars4u.com.au go to www.pakmag.com.au and tell us the name of the owner of Smart Calendars 4 U?

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WIN

For your chance to WIN one of these Pillow Pets simply go to our website (www.pakmag.com.au) and tell us the names of the four turtles?

www.pakmag.com.au

7

By Kate van Eck

Made with

Love

In a world overloaded with cheap, low value, mass-produced products, two local mums are providing an outlet for unique locally made goods.

The saying “everything old is new again” couldn’t

perfectly and they’ve turned out to be amazing

a global trend towards unique products with

be more apt when describing the worldwide

landlords,” she laughs.

soul as opposed to mass produced items made

resurgence in quality, handmade goods. In order to meet this demand locally while providing an opportunity for emerging designers, Tameson Godfrey and Emma Channer have combined

exactly a month later they were forced to vacate

the items we stock rivals any high-end store in Melbourne or Sydney but for half the price.”

Now open six days a week and stocking over 40

and suppliers were so supportive,” says Emma.

suppliers, Handmade Cans has come full circle

“Despite having nowhere to go for months, they

after reopening at its original premises at 154

stood by us and never complained.” Although

Sheridan Street last December. For a small fee of

the stock was quarantined for weeks with

$20 per week, suppliers can display and sell their

some suffering smoke and water damage, the

goods – keeping 100% of their sales. According

Bucking the trend of cheap, mass-produced

community spirit of the store remained strong.

to local designer Lucette Burke, the co-op gives

stock, Handmade Cans provides an opportunity

“It’s amazing to be dealing with this wealth of

suppliers the opportunity to bring their products

to purchase unique, locally produced items –

talent in the region,” she says. “We have such

face to face with customers. “I’ve always enjoyed

made from the heart. “There’s so much talent

an enthusiastic group of suppliers who are an

making gifts for friends and family so it was

out there,” says Tam. “But until now there’s been

absolute pleasure to work with.”

a natural progression to try to reach a larger

store unlike anything seen in recent years. But despite securing a strong following in just a few short months, Handmade Cans has also faced its share of challenges.

a lack of opportunity for designers starting out.”

Although the seed was planted years ago, it was only after meeting Rick and Kristy Beresford (owners of The Flying Monkey Café) that the plans for the store fell into place. “It wouldn’t have gotten off the ground without them. They had a room next to the café which suited us www.pakmag.com.au

strong following, the joy was short-lived when

overseas,” says Emma. “The quality and value of

the premises due to fire. “Both our customers

their shared passion to create a co-operative

8

After opening their doors in July last year to a

After operating a ‘pop-up’ shop in Edge Hill over a long weekend in November, Tam and Emma were able to re-test the market while providing an opportunity for suppliers to sell both new

audience,” she says. “Selling online is great, but when customers are able to see and touch your products – they’re more likely to fall in love with them.”

and fire damaged stock. After an overwhelming

Handmade Cans have reopened at their

success, they were once again motivated to

original address at 154 Sheridan Street.

pursue their ‘labour of love’. “There’s definitely

www.pakmag.com.au

9

R

By Amanda Cranston

eturning to work can be a daunting

highlights time away from the workforce.

and overwhelming experience for

Director of CBC Staff Selection, Sally Mlikota,

many mums who feel they have

says it is also incredibly important for mums

been out of the workforce for too long or

to update their skills. “You need to be totally

that their skills are out of date. They worry

on top of your game, have strong data

about how employable they are, about

entry and typing skills if applying for office

finding work that will fit in around school

work, demonstrate flexibility in the hours

hours, how childcare will affect their kids,

you are willing to work, be well groomed,

separation anxiety, changes to routine and

professional and have a positive attitude,”

how they will juggle work and family life.

she says. “Unfortunately many mums miss

But with a little preparation and a positive

out on job opportunities because they are

attitude, rebuilding a career doesn’t have to

inflexible and will only work during school

be stressful.

hours and are not willing to work a few

Psychologist Jutta Dempsey says mums need to let go of their guilt and look at returning to work as a positive step forward. “According to an Annual Child Care Survey, many parents feel that “mother guilt” is the hardest thing about returning to work,” she says. “However, I think a mother who loves her work and gets excited about it is a good role model and teaches her children a good work ethic,

extra hours when needed or during school holidays.” Sally says mums who want to return to the workforce should do online courses or TAFE classes if necessary to update their skills. She also recommends a short, concise and professional resume. As a mum herself, Sally says it is possible to juggle work and family and just takes good organisation and communication within the family unit.

whether she chooses to be a stay-at-home

Jutta says returning to work doesn’t have

mum or work outside the home.” She adds

to be a stressful transition and can actually

that if a mum feels happy and fulfilled the

be a positive experience for everyone. She

family as a whole will benefit and function

suggests mums consciously plan regular

better and more harmoniously.

family time so everyone still feels connected

So where do mums start? The first step is to update your resume and look at focusing on skills and experience in your CV rather than laying it out chronologically, as this only

emotionally. “Mums need to let go of something, usually some of the household standards so that they have time left for family without distractions, especially once they go back to work,” she says.

Top Tips for Returning to Work

kids

work

house

chores

rted school Whether your youngest has just sta re are or money is a little tight at home, the back to many reasons mums decide to go the whole work and this transition can affect financially. family emotionally, logistically and 10

www.pakmag.com.au

Mumso

Returning t the Workforce

[1] Make a plan and actively start

looking for a job

[2] Put yourself out there and refresh

your skills and update your CV

[3] Stay in the loop and attend

networking events

[4] Believe in yourself

www.pakmag.com.au

11

By Amanda Cranston

Art of LetterWriting In today’s busy digital world of mobile phones, email and social media, the art of letter writing is being forgotten but with the summer holidays here, maybe now is the time to introduce your kids to the joy of letters.

It seems that much of what we know about

abbreviated conversations has taken over once

or kept in a precious box, held onto as treasured

history has been learned through letters and

beautiful penmanship and poetic language.

memories of an eventful time in one’s life. Even

handwritten correspondence. Old letters are not just nostalgic but are treasures that give us a glimpse into the lives of our parents, grandparents and even historical figures. Love letters written by Napoleon to Josephine or those Henry VIII wrote to Anne Boleyn reveal their love and devotion in a time when letters meant something.Yet today’s generation seem to have forgotten or not truly understand what it means to write and send letters, instead choosing to correspond via short electronic messages. They prefer to share every intimate detail of their lives on social media rather than pouring their heart out in a letter to a chosen few. They expect an instant reply via email or text message, so do not understand or have even experienced the joy of

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It may seem that letter writing is hopelessly outdated but true feelings of heartfelt congratulations, sincere sympathies, deepest apologies and unrequited love can never be truly expressed as a text or email. There are times when a handwritten note, card or letter is needed

with the popularity of social media today, emails just don’t seem to hold the same significance as a carefully handwritten letter. Unfortunately birthday cards seem to be the only handwritten correspondence people receive these days, but it isn’t too late to bring back the joy of snail mail.

to give a personal touch and show someone

To introduce kids to the joys of letter writing,

you truly care. When someone dies, has a baby,

you can buy a set of beautiful writing paper and

gets engaged, ties the knot, gets accepted into

envelopes or make your own cards. Encourage

university or you want to apologise, a heartfelt

them to write to grandparents, family or friends

handwritten note or card is normally the most

locally or overseas, send an invitation for a

appropriate and courteous option. A love letter is

playdate to a friend, send a picture in the mail to

also more meaningful when someone has taken

nana or even leave little notes out for the garden

the time to handwrite their thoughts and feelings

fairies. As it is only good manners to reply to

and express them on paper.

a handwritten letter, hopefully your child will

receiving a handwritten card or letter in the mail.

Whether you receive a card for sympathy,

And language, grammar and handwriting have

congratulations or undying love, these cards and

fallen by the wayside as texting and tweeting

letters are often filed away and tied with string

receive a lovely surprise in the mail and introduce them to the pure pleasure of receiving mail.

www.pakmag.com.au

13

R

ecent research has revealed that

especially when outbursts mount on top of

tantrum-throwing toddlers who hit,

one another. When we’re flooded with negative

kick, bite or break objects at the age

emotions our ability to hear, think and speak are

of two or three are seven times more likely than

severely impaired so taking a ‘time out’ can be

other kids to be suffering a psychiatric disorder.

enormously constructive. Reframing a situation,

And they are five times more likely to suffer depression or anxiety at primary school.

The research, based on interviews with more than 5000 parents of toddlers over a decade, has found a link between violent tantrums and anxiety disorders, Attention Deficit Disorder, depression and Oppositional Defiance Disorder.

This research endorses parental concern when a child is unable to manage their emotions.

Children who are emotionally competent, manage their own feelings well and recognise and respond effectively to the feelings of others, are at an advantage in everyday life, whether in family, peers, sports or learning environments. They are also more likely to lead happy and productive lives and to master the habits of mind, such as time management and organisation skills that will assure them personal success.

Children who can tolerate frustration and stress better, who get into fewer fights and engage in less self-destructive behavior, are less lonely, more focused and less impulsive.

In order to teach children how to handle their emotions parents must obviously have a reasonable degree of emotional intelligence themselves. Rage in an adult is disturbing to watch, but even more so for a child witnessing it in the car or watching their parents fight.

[1] The first step in getting children to learn how to control their emotional responses is

Developing

Emotional Intelligence

Emotions impact on every part of a child’s life – learning, behavior, health and relationships, so its little wonder that when a child cannot manage their emotions well, parents become very concerned, writes psychologist Jutta Dempsey.

to help them develop self-awareness. They need to know what they are feeling, be able to put it into words and be able to identify negative events that hijack their good feelings. If children lack self-awareness, they may become engulfed by their feelings, lost in them and overwhelmed by them.

[2] Children then need to know how to manage their emotions and recover from upsets, distress and bad moods quickly.

or seeing it from a different perspective, is one of the most effective ways of quelling and controlling emotions.

• Sadness: The key to lifting ourselves out of low feelings is exercise and positive distracting activities, like seeing a funny movie, improving a skill, winning a game or completing a project.

Humor is great at lifting a child out of these low moods and can add to their creativity and ability to solve problems.

• Stress: Coping well with stressful situations builds resilience and motivation in children.

Rather than intervening on their behalf, allow your children to problem solve and cope by themselves because this will develop their independence and ability to handle stress well.

[3] Having clearly articulated goals and steps to successful completion is an important part of emotional development. Children need to motivate themselves toward a goal and marshal emotions in order to reach those goals.

[4] Empathy and the ability to recognise emotions in others is an outgrowth of self-awareness. You can encourage this by getting your children to understand different perspectives. For instance, in conflict situations children can be asked to listen to each other’s feelings and point of view and then feed back and summarise the opposing perspective.

[5] Children learn many core skills through their many diverse relationships with other people including empathy, listening, understanding body language and managing other people’s emotions.

Every day children have countless opportunities to learn the skills of emotional intelligence through their relationships with others. When emotional lessons are repeated over and over and role modeled as well, they are reflected in strengthening neural pathways in the brain and they become positive habits that surface in times of stress.

Anger, sadness and worry are all stressful feelings that a child can learn to manage as follows: • Anger: Contrary to some theories “letting it all out” is not helpful. Acting on anger will generally make a child angrier, and each angry

Jutta Dempsey has worked with families and children for over 30 years as a psychologist

outburst will prolong and deepen the distress,

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15

By Michelle Dryburgh

Canine Classrooms A tail of learning and friendship “The dog ate my homework!” has to be the

reading - perhaps even for the first time in

manager Veronica Robertson says the idea for

oldest excuse in the book, and not a very

their lives,” she says. “The children are always

the program was initiated by Glenda Bridgman,

convincing one at that. Perhaps just as hard to

really excited, even those who are a bit shy and

a Geelong teacher with 20 years’ experience

believe would be any child claiming the family

apprehensive warm up in a matter of seconds.

who regularly took her dog Hamish into the

dog helped them do their homework. But that’s exactly what’s happening in schools and libraries

“On the days Hamish was present she noticed

bond with the animal. When children return for

a change in the dynamics of the children -

The innovative Classroom Canines program

their subsequent sessions they greet the dog

social and learning skills improved noticeably,”

introduces dogs to the classroom to provide an

with lots of affection, picking up right where

Veronica says. “When Glenda applied to become

attentive, non-judgmental audience for children

they left off.”

a Delta volunteer she wanted to continue this

with reading difficulties. Operated by the Delta Society, which specialises in animal companion therapies, the program is available in only five Australian cities and was introduced to North Queensland in late 2013. Classroom Canines is already having remarkable results and the program is set to expand this year.

The Cairns Libraries program, which operates at Smithfield and Manunda libraries, was available only to children in years two and three last year.

In 2014 it will be open to all primary-school aged

work – and formalise her visits by having Hamish accredited and working within a professional organisation that would recognise the potential of working in the education system.”

children who are reluctant to read or lack selfconfidence. Participation is free and Tanya says children can expect to sit with the dog in a quiet

For more information about becoming a volunteer along with your pet go to

Tanya Curtis is a children’s librarian at Cairns

area of the library and practice reading aloud for

Libraries, which hosted one of the first

20 minutes. Each child can have a total of four

Classroom Canines public library sessions in

sessions and Tanya recommends attendance on

Queensland. She says the program is based on

consecutive weeks.

Smithfield Library – Fridays (4-5pm).

The dogs are everyday pets, but first need

Bookings essential. Call 4044 3736.

a simple concept but the outcomes could be life-changing.

www.pakmag.com.au

classroom.

that it isn’t long before children form a special

across Cairns.

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“The dogs seem to relax them and we’ve noticed

www.deltasociety.com.au Cairns Libraries Canine Classroom Timetable:

to undergo behavioural assessments and

Manunda Library – Tuesdays (4-5pm).

“It’s amazing to see children who would

specialised training from the Delta Society. Delta

Bookings essential. Call 4044 3785.

otherwise fear and avoid books actually enjoy

Society national marketing and fundraising www.pakmag.com.au

17

By Louise Costanzo

Saver Plus It’s at this time of year, just after Christmas and with a new school year approaching, that some families struggle to make ends meet.

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The start of a new school year is exciting but it also brings with it a lot of extra expense - new uniforms, new school shoes, new bags, new stationery supplies and all the other things required for school. For those families living on a low income or those struggling with budgeting, it can be difficult coming up with the extra money.

helps families gain financial skills, establish a savings goal and develop long term savings habits. As an incentive to save, participants receive up to $500 in matched savings (dollar for dollar) when they complete the program, which can be used for education and development related costs, including sports fees and extra curricular activities.

The good news is that you know this is expense is going to occur every January so with a little bit of planning you can make sure you have money put aside. However, if you’re not very confident about managing your families’ finances in this way, there is help available within the community to help you learn these important money skills.

For lower income families, the benefits of saving, even small amounts, provides protection from financial surprises and builds confidence in managing money and dealing with banks and other financial institutions.

The Benevolent Society have been assisting people, families and communities achieve positive change for 200 years. They believe that one method to improving financial capability amongst families is to encourage the development of a savings habit, so one of the many programs they provide is a free financial literacy and matched savings program called Saver Plus. Saver Plus is a ten month financial education and matched savings program that www.pakmag.com.au

Tania is a single parent of two children, aged 5 and 7, living in Cairns. She works part time in an effort to make ends meet but following recent changes to government funded single parenting payments she realised she needed some help. So she approached The Benevolent Society’s Cairns Early Years Centre and joined the Saver Plus program.

Tania says that being involved in the Saver Plus program has changed the way she thinks about money. “I have managed to keep saving after

finishing the program, and I’ve learned about things like fee free banking and how to find “spending leaks” in my budget that I wasn’t aware of.”

The real success of the Saver Plus program is measured by the fact that its participants seem to successfully continue with their new money habits after the program is finished. Findings from recent independent research has found that 87 per cent of Saver Plus participants were still saving the same amount of money, or more, up to 12 months after completing the program and 79 per cent of all participants said they were better equipped to deal with unexpected expenses following the program.

If money causes your family a lot of stress, make 2014 the year that you take control of your finances.

For eligibility and info on the Saver Plus program, including a range of parenting support programs available, Call The Benevolent Society’s Cairns Early Years Centre on 4034 6800 or find them on Facebook “Cairns Early Years Centre” www.pakmag.com.au

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Cool for

School!

With a new school year approaching, it’s time to start thinking about back to school products and these are a few new ones coming onto the market.

1

Plan it! Bag Tags

Personalised Bags

Designed for citrus fruit you just unscrew the

These gorgeous personalised backpacks come

both you and the kids remember what days

bottom cup, twist and press fruit in to the

in a range of colours and designs. You can have

they need library books, musical instruments

juicer and replace the bottom cup. The pulp,

your child’s first name or full name added.

and sports gear. They attach to a ring and clip

rind and pips stay at the bottom while the juice

Available from www.spatz.com.au

on. Available from www.loubilou.com.au

is released into the water bottle. Available at

RRP $34.95

RRP $9.95 for a pack of five tags

www.beyondcool.com.au RRP $29.95

Green Lunchbox

www.pakmag.com.au

Citrus Zinger

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These Monday to Friday bag tags will help

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2

5

Superman Cable

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Busy Week Chart

Funky environmentally-friendly sandwich

Save time with this funky Superman gadget

This magnetic activity chart helps kids set

wraps, lunchboxes and drink bottles have been

to charge up devices and transfer documents

up a routine with picture tiles that provide

designed by nutritionist Lindy Cook and come

when moving from class to class at school and

reminders for homework, music practice,

in gorgeous patterned designs. Available from

home again. Available from JB HiFi stores

library day, sport and chores. Available from

www.mygreenluncbox.com.au RRP $23.95

RRP $19.95

www.magneticmoves.com.au RRP $29.50 www.pakmag.com.au 21

Health pak

Antibiotic Resistance

news

Epilepsy New Approach Neuroplasticity (a person’s ability to change their brain) promises exciting potential in the treatment of epilepsy as well as memory and learning problems often associated with the condition.

Neuropsychiatrist, Professor Harry McConnell, says a growing understanding of neuroplasticity is making experts in epilepsy think differently about the

Parents can lead the fight

condition and consider new approaches to treatment.

One in four Aussie parents have kept left-over antibiotics or unfilled antibiotics prescriptions to use ‘next time’, according to research released recently during Antibiotic Awareness Week.

condition, but now we are seeing it as a dynamic

“We have always thought of epilepsy as being a static condition that changes over time because of different treatments and environmental stimuli. We are just now beginning to appreciate ways we can modify the brain and influence neuroplasticity for positive outcomes for people with epilepsy.

“It is not just about suppressing seizures, but changing the connections that the brain is using.”

In the survey of 1000 people NPS

“If you or your child is prescribed

MedicineWise found that one in 10 people

antibiotics, take them exactly as directed

have taken left-over antibiotics without first

by your doctor. And if you have an unfilled

speaking to their doctor or pharmacist, and

script or any unused antibiotics, return

that parents are more likely to hold on to

them to your pharmacist for safe disposal.”

the medicines for next time they or their

the summer months there is a greater risk of

know that bacteria are becoming resistant

developing outer ear infections (Tropical Ear) and

Pharmacist and manager of NPS Medicines

to antibiotics, too few recognise the extent

middle ear infections. If your child seems to be

Line, Sarah Spagnardi, says while it can

of the problem in Australia and most are

suffering from the following symptoms see your GP:

be tempting to keep and use left-over

putting their faith in health professionals

medicines, the misuse and overuse of

to solve it.

antibiotics contributes to the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria or ‘superbugs’.

“When we use an antibiotic incorrectly,

However by using antibiotics correctly parents can help protect their kids from the future threat of superbugs.

or when it’s not needed, bacteria have a

• Tropical Ear - itching in the ear canal, redness, discharge, fever and pain.

• Middle ear infections – rapid onset, varying degrees of pain, irritability, reduced response to sounds, fever, discharge, pulling at ears, crying and even vomiting.

greater chance of becoming resistant to that antibiotic in the future. Just because a

Learn more about antibiotic resistance

Children who are prone to ear infections can reduce

certain antibiotic worked for you or the kids

and appropriate use of antibiotics at

their risk by using Aqua Ear or custom-made ear

last time, doesn’t mean the same antibiotic

www.nps.org.au/antibiotics

plugs. Ear wraps are also good for extra protection

will be appropriate next time you get sick. www.pakmag.com.au

As children spend more time in the water in

NPS MedicineWise says whilst most people

children get sick.

22

Swimmers Ear

for younger children. www.pakmag.com.au

23

Nutrition pak

FOCUS on Fats

by Connie Eales

Product news

Sun Rice Food

review

Many of us are scared of fat because most of us have been influenced by the low fat (often energy and sugar laden) products of our generations.

We may have updated our knowledge so we know logically that we should be including good fats in our diet, but we cower at the sight of an avocado or oil based dressing!

However it is important that we don’t pass on these old habits to the next generation so here’s a refresher on what you need to know: • Saturated fats are found in meat, dairy, coconut oil and palm oil and are linked to increasing levels of bad cholesterol.

• Unsaturated fats are found in many vegetable oils, olives, avocados and oily fish. These fats are linked to decreasing levels of damaging cholesterol and increasing levels of protective cholesterol.

• Look for ways to decrease the saturated fats in your diet and replace them with unsaturated fat alternatives.

Tips for improving kids fat profile: • Include two serves of low fat dairy in their diet each day such as low fat cheese cubes in their lunch box or a glass of low fat milk after school.

• Swap mayonnaise for avocado or hummus.

Rice is a staple in most households. Parents eat it, kids eat it and even dogs will finish any leftovers.

Unfortunately, staple = boring sometimes so Sun Rice have introduced a new range of health and wellbeing rice products. My pick of the bunch is the brown rice and quinoa mix. This is a perfect way to introduce quinoa to kids, with it making up only 15% of the mix. It is a low GI, higher protein and fibre mix.

• Eat oily fish twice per week (this can be tinned fish in dishes such as salmon patties or tuna pasta).

Connie is an Accredited Practising Dietitian at Health

• Choose lean meats with fat trimmed before cooking.

• Swap butter for an olive oil based margarine.

• Go vegetarian one night a week and include legumes and nuts. Good examples are chickpea curry or Mexican bean tacos.

www.pakmag.com.au

Management (www.healthmanagement.com.au) You can connect with Health Management and ask Connie questions on Facebook.

children coconut parents at my school are giving their READER QUESTION: Some of the up with water. lly have a snack on hand and fill them water as an after sport drink. I usua r instead?

Do you recommend coconut wate use it post on at the moment. Celebrities who Coconut products are definitely in fashi r has some wate nut Coco d the light on coconut water. workout for ‘rehydration’ have shine tion entra conc gh enou ever these are not at a high naturally occurring electrolytes, how Also, on. drati rehy for e ys going to be the best choic to have extra benefits. Water is alwa saturated fat in people who ‘quit sugar’. With 85-90% y man coconut oil and butter attract or coconut yoghurt curry n mended for regular use. A gree these products, they are not recom cooking fat. to go I wouldn’t begin using it as your occasionally won’t do any harm but

Q&A

nutritionadvice

24

Rice & Quinoa Mix

www.pakmag.com.au

25

Pakmag Team

Lamb & apricot pilaf

By Bree James (Publisher) 1 tbs olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 1 x garlic clove, crushed 2 x tsp morrocan seasoning 400g lamb leg steak

pakmag

TEAM recipe

1 1/4 cup of basmati rice 2 cups of beef stock 1 tomato chopped 400g can of chickpeas

Bree's Fave "I love this meal as it’s a one pot wonder, quick, tasty, healthy and an affordable meal that can be made in less than 15 minutes."

26

www.pakmag.com.au

1/3 cup apricots, chopped 1 x tbs toasted pinenuts 1/4 cup mint leaves

In a deep frypan, heat the oil and cook the garlic, onions. Add spice, stir for 30 seconds until coated, then add lamb. Stir in rice and coat in spice mix. Add stock and tomato and bring to the boil, then simmer stirring occasionally until rice cooks (8-10 min). Mix in chickpeas, mint, apricots and pinenuts and serve with toasted flatbread.

www.pakmag.com.au

27

Dutchy'S PICK

"Check out the Children's Exhibition at Cairns Regional Gallery this month!"

January 2013 DATE 2/1/14

pink = family

VENUE Lil Scribblers

eventGUIDE green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

School Holiday Art Jams

10.00am

blue = adults FOR MORE INFO

COST

0400 646 327

Cost

3/1/14

Trinity Beach Hotel

Nikki The Facepainter

6.00pm

4/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Cairns

Kids D.I.Y Workshops : D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4052 0300

Free Free

Free

4/1/14

Bunning Warehouse Atherton

Kids D.I.Y Workshops : D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4089 2100

4/1/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Free Entry Saturday

10.00am

www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au Free

4044 3766

4/1/14

Earlville Library

Board Games all ages with Cairns Boardgamers

9.00am

4/1/14

Dunwoody's

Nikki The Facepainter

6.00pm

Free Free

5/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Cairns

Kids D.I.Y Workshops: D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4052 0300

Free

5/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Atherton

Kids D.I.Y Workshops: D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4089 2100

Free

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

6/1/14

Holy Cross OHSC Trinity Park

Nikki The Facepainter

9.00am

7/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Kindergym 2-5yrs

9.30am

Free

7/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

GymFun 5-8yrs, GymSkills 8-12yrs

3.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

7/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Trampoline 8+yrs,

4.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

7/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Xtreme Gym 10+yrs (eg.parkour, free running)

5.00pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

Free

7/1/14

Gordonvale Library

Storytime

10.30am

4056 1365

Free

7/1/14

Earlville Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.30am

4044 3766

Free

7/1/14

Lil Scribblers

School Holiday Art Jams

10.00am

0400646327

Cost

8/1/14

City Library

Storytime

10.30am

4044 3720

Free

8/1/14

Stratford Library

School Holiday Activity - Summer Picnic & Playdough Making

10.30am

4044 3733

Free

8/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

MultiSport Madness

1.00pm

4032 2844

$7

8/1/14

Tanks Arts Centre (Tank 3)

Aerial Circus Classes for kids aged 8-17 years

5.00pm

www.aerialdynamics.com.au

$25

8/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Kindergym 2-5yrs

9.30am

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

8/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

GymFun 5-8yrs, GymSkills 8-12yrs

3.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

8/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Trampoline 8+yrs,

4.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

9/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

MultiSport Madness

1.00pm

4032 2844

$7

9/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Kindergym 2-5yrs

9.30am

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

9/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

GymFun 5-8yrs, GymSkills 8-12yrs

3.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

9/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Trampoline 8+yrs,

4.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

9/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Acro-Tumble 10+yrs (walkovers, saultos etc)

5.00pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

Free

9/1/14

Tanks Arts Centre (Tank 3)

Aerial Circus Classes for kids aged 8-17 years

5.00pm

www.aerialdynamics.com.au

$25

School holiday ProgramS 3 hour Sessions plus 1 & 2 day riding camps

• Group/Private Riding Lessons for Children and Adults (beginners to advanced) • Pony Rides for Children under 5 years of age

BookingS eSSential CALL 4039 3143 Lot 626 Intake Rd, Redlynch • www.crystalcascadeshorsepark.com.au

28

www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

29

MARK'S PICK

"Make the most of the Mummy Central Deals on 14 January"

January 2013 DATE 9/1/14

pink = family

VENUE

green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

Smithfield Library

Baby Rhyme Time

TIME

blue = adults FOR MORE INFO 4044 3711

Free

4056 1365

Free

10/1/14

Gordonvale Library

School Holiday Activity

10.30am

10/1/14

Trinity Beach Hotel

Nikki The Facepainter

6.00pm

10/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Tiny Tots

9.00am

4032 2844

$7

Cairns Indoor Sports

MultiSport Madness

1.00pm

4032 2844

$7

11/1/14

Trinity Beach Hotel

Nikki The Facepainter

5.30pm

Free

11/1/14

Cairns Convention Centre

Cairns Taipans V Wollongong

7.30pm

4041 3000

Cost

11/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Cairns

Kids D.I.Y Workshops: Nature Workshop

10.30am

4052 0300

Free

10.30am

11/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Atherton

Kids D.I.Y Workshops: Nature Workshop

AJ Hackett Cairns - Sunday Arvo

FREE Entry, FREE Jumping Castle, FREE facepainting, Band - Vikarious

4089 2100

Free

1800 622 889

Free

12/1/14

The Pier

Sunday Funday

9.30am

4053 3331

Free

12/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Cairns

Kids D.I.Y Workshops: Woodwork

10.30am

4052 0300

Free

10.30am

4089 2100

12/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Atherton

Kids D.I.Y Workshops: Woodwork

13/1/14

Cairns Central

Search for a Super Star Talent Quest - all week

13/1/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Ghost Nets Community Project

10.00am

programs@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

Free

13/1/14

Stockland Cairns

Dinosaur Craft Activites

10.00am

4053 3331

Free

Free

14/1/14

Cairns Central

Mummy Central

9.00am

Free

Stockland Cairns

Dinosaur Craft Activites

10.00am

Free

14/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Kindergym 2-5yrs

9.30am

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

14/1/14

Stratford Library

Storytime

10.30am

4044 3733

Free

14/1/14

Lil Scribblers

School Holiday Art Jams

10.00am

0400 646 327

Cost

15/1/14

Babinda Library

Storytime

10.30am

4067 1112

Free

4044 3766

Free

4032 2844

$7

15/1/14

Earlville Library

School Holiday Activity - FINtastic craft (Making Sea Creatures)

10.30am

15/1/14

Stockland Cairns

Dinosaur Craft Activites

10.00am

15/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

MultiSport Madness

9.00am

Free

15/1/14

Tanks Arts Centre (Tank 3)

Aerial Circus Classes for kids aged 8-17 years

5.00pm

www.aerialdynamics.com.au

$25

15/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Kindergym 2-5yrs

9.30am

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

15/1/14

Craft n Sewing Studio

Learn to sew (start of a 3 day program)

10.00am

enquiries@craftnsewing.com.au

Cost

16/1/14

Tanks Arts Centre (Tank 3)

Aerial Circus Classes for kids aged 8-17 years

5.00pm

www.aerialdynamics.com.au

$25

16/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

MultiSport Madness

1.00pm

4032 2844

$7

FREE CHILD MINDING FREE CHILD MINDING NOW AVAILABLE Monday to Friday 9am - 11.00am Ph: 4053 1532 Web: cairnspcyc.org

Affordable gym memberships

30

$35.80/MONTH

NO LOCK IN CONTRACTS

www.pakmag.com.au

Jan2014

Free

14/1/14

GYM + FITNESS

MINI MAG

Free

10/1/14

12/1/14

Kids

COST

10.30am

January FUN Activities Colour in and you could WIN a party for 15 kids

WIN

Fun activities & prizes to win www.pakmag.com.au

31

colour IN & Win!

Colour in and you could WIN a party for 15 kids

To enter colour-it-in & mail to:

Name:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in January 2014

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 & you could WIN a Party for 15 kids at Woree McDonalds! We also have 15 runner up

32

prizes towww.pakmag.com.au be WON! (Comp Closes 18/01/14)

Age:

Address: Phone: Email:

www.pakmag.com.au Competitions close 18 January 2014 33

makE & Do Oliver Standen's

See it on youtube

If you would like to see Oli's tutorial on how to make a toy parachute go to the PakMag Cairns youtube channel.

CHRIS'S PICK

"Grab your flags and celebrate being Aussie at the Esplanade on 26 January"

How to make parachutes to take your toys on adventures You Will Need:

We’re going to make some

some help from your mum or

[4] Now you are ready to go.

parachutes to take our toys on

dad because it’s a bit hard.

Find a high spot from a verandah

an adventure.

[1] Cut your plastic into a square

• String, wool or dental floss • Plastic (from a bag or wrapper or the stuff they wrap stuff in to keep it from breaking) • Scissors • A ruler (if you are fussy) • Lego man, squinky, or miniature action figure

or rectangle. Don’t make it too small because the bigger it is, the better it will fly.

[2] Now pull out a bit of string to about the length of a ruler.

Cut four bits of string this length and tie them to the corners of the plastic (pinch the corner

A. Because the teacher said it was a piece of cake.

or finger up in the centre of the parachute, throw it up and watch it fly. If there is a breeze outside go race them, it's lots of fun.

DATE 16/1/14

VENUE Southside Gymnastics

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Kindergym 2-5yrs

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

9.30am

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

4044 3733

Free

4067 1112

Free

16/1/14

Stratford Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.30am

16/1/14

Stockland Cairns

Dinosaur Craft Activites

10.00am

17/1/14

Babinda Library

School Holiday Activity - Calico Mural Painting

10.30am

17/1/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Ghost Net Weaving - School Holiday Class

10.00am

www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au $18

17/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Tiny Tots

9.00am

4032 2844

$7

17/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

MultiSport Madness

1.00pm

4032 2844

$7

17/1/14

Stockland Cairns

Dinosaur Craft Activites

10.00am

17/1/14

Cairns Convention Centre

Cairns Taipans V Sydney Kings

7.30pm

18/1/14

Earlville Library

Board Games all ages with Cairns Boardgamers

9.00am

Free

Free Free 4044 3766

Free

18/1/14

Stockland Cairns

Dinosaur Craft Activites

10.00am

Free

wrap the string around it and tie

20/1/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Mono Printing - School Holiday Class

10.00am

www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au $18

21/1/14

Manunda Library

School Holiday Activity - Reading with Chillie the Dog

4.00pm

4044 3785

Free

it into a knot). You might need

just tie it to the head if you like.

21/1/14

Smithfield Library

Storytime

10.30am

4044 3711

Free

21/1/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Sgraffito Painting - School Holiday Class

10.00am

www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au $14

21/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Kindergym 2-5yrs

9.30am

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

21/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

GymFun 5-8yrs, GymSkills 8-12yrs

3.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

Q. How did the teacher knit a suit of armor?

A. She used steel wool!

Q. When is a blue school book not a blue school book?

21/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Trampoline 8+yrs,

4.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

21/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Xtreme Gym 14+yrs (eg.parkour, free running)

5.00pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

Free

21/1/14

Cairns Central

Sesame Street Show - 10am, 11am & 12pm

10.00am

4053 3331

Free

21/1/14

Lil Scribblers

School Holiday Art Jams

10.00am

0400 646 327

Cost

21/1/14

Craft n Sewing Studio

Under 8's workshop - Decorate a book & pencil

10.00am

enquiries@craftnsewing.com.au

Cost

22/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

MultiSport Madness

1.00pm

4032 2844

$7 $25

22/1/14

Tanks Arts Centre (Tank 3)

Aerial Circus Classes for kids aged 8-17 years

5.00pm

www.aerialdynamics.com.au

22/1/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Sculpture - School Holiday Class

10.00am

www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au $18

22/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Kindergym 2-5yrs

9.30am

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

22/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

GymFun 5-8yrs, GymSkills 8-12yrs

3.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

22/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Trampoline 8+yrs,

4.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

22/1/14

City Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.30am

4044 3720

Free

22/1/14

Cairns Central

Sesame Street Show - 10am, 11am & 12pm

10.00am

22/1/14

Craft n Sewing Studio

Dream Catcher (Two classes: 10am & 2pm)

10.00am

enquiries@craftnsewing.com.au

Cost

23/1/14

Earlville Library

Storytime

10.30am

4044 3766

Free

Free

23/1/14

Tanks Arts Centre (Tank 3)

Aerial Circus Classes for kids aged 8-17 years

5.00pm

www.aerialdynamics.com.au

$25

23/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

MultiSport Madness

1.00pm

4032 2844

$7

A. When it is read!

Q. What tools do you need for math?

Q. What do you call a boy with a dictionary in his pocket?

A. MultiPLIERS.

A. Smartie Pants!

WIN!

34

or your bed and put your hand

just wrap the string around the arms and the back – but you can

between your thumb and finger,

Crackles "JOKES" Q. Why did the boy eat his homework?

[3] You will then have string hanging down from all four corners. Bring them all together half way down and tie into a knot (about halfway down or a bit more). If you poke your finger up in the middle of the plastic it helps you bring all the string together. Then you just need to tie the bottom half of the string to your toy. With the Lego man

eventGUIDE

Submit your best joke and you could WIN a "Student Money Saver" account with an opening balance of $15 to kick start your savings. Email your joke to: competitions@pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

35

eventGUIDE january 2013 DATE

VENUE

23/1/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

pink = family

green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Wax Resist - School Holiday Class

TIME 10.00am

blue = adults FOR MORE INFO

COST

www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au $18

23/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Kindergym 2-5yrs

9.30am

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$18

23/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

GymFun 5-8yrs, GymSkills 8-12yrs

3.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

23/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Trampoline 8+yrs,

4.30pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

$12

23/1/14

Southside Gymnastics

Acro-Tumble 10+yrs (walkovers, saultos etc)

5.00pm

www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

Free

23/1/14

Cairns Central

Sesame Street Show - 10am, 11am & 12pm

10.00am

4053 3331

Free

23/1/14

City Library

Kids Cooking Class (Two classes: 10.30am & 2.30pm)

10.30am

4044 3720

Free

23/1/14

Craft n Sewing Studio

Make your own clock (Two classes: 10am & 2pm)

10.00am

enquiries@craftnsewing.com.au

Cost

24/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Tiny Tots

9.00am

4032 2844

$7 $7

24/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

MultiSport Madness

1.00pm

4032 2844

24/1/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Cupcake Decorating

1.00pm

www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au $22

24/1/14

Cairns Central

Sesame Street Show - 10am, 11am & 12pm

10.00am

24/1/14

Craft n Sewing Studio

Aussie croc bag tag etc (Three classes: 10am, 12pm & 2pm)

10.00am

enquiries@craftnsewing.com.au

Cost

25/1/14

Earlville Library

Board Games all ages with Cairns Boardgamers

9.00am

4044 3766

Free

4053 3331

Free

25/1/14

Trinity Beach Hotel

Nikki The Facepainter

5.30pm

25/1/14

Cairns Central

Sesame Street Show - 10am, 11am & 12pm

10.00am

Free

Free

26/1/14

Cazalys

Australia Day Family Fun Day

10.00am

www.cazalys.com.au

Free

26/1/14

Cairns Esplanade

Australia Day Free Fun Day – including kids activities

12.00pm

4044 3044

Free

26/1/14

Yorkeys Knob

Australia Day Celebrations

10.30am

3405 5215

Free

26/1/14

Council Civic Reception Room

Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony

10.30am

4044 3044

Free

28/1/14

Manunda Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.30am

4044 3779

Free

28/1/14

Manunda Library

Classroom Canines - Reading Confidence Program

4.00pm

4044 3785

Free

28/1/14

Lil Scribblers

School Holiday Art Jams

10.00am

0400 646 327

Cost

29/1/14

Tanks Arts Centre

Aerial Circus Classes ( Tank 3 )

7.00pm

0424 928 917

Cost

30/1/14

Tanks Arts Centre

Aerial Circus Classes ( Tank 3 )

7.00pm

0424 928 917

Cost

31/1/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Tiny Tots

9.00am

4032 2844

$7

Go to pakmag.com.au for more events and market info

Be the difference…

10am SundayS St Mary’s School, HOB Hall 52 Anderson Rd, Woree • • • •

FREE

Morning Tea every Sunday after the service

Exciting kids program • Weekly Friday night Teen Program Boost Academy after school programs for 8 years to 12 years Free School Breakfast Programs • Pets In The Park Rock Impact Inc – Local & abroad community development programs

Call 4031 6300 or visit www.franklandislands.com.au

& 4054 3900 • www.rockchurch.com.au • www.rockimpact.com.au

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37

By Shannon du Plessis

BabySignLanguage Frustrated by a screaming baby? Try sign language to help your baby communicate their needs, writes Shannon du Plessis Children pick up new words and develop their

Baby sign language stimulates brain

resources for you to try out before buying books,

language and communication skills at an

development, provides a strong foundation

posters, flash cards or DVDs. However, if you do

incredible rate. They go through many different

for early literacy, helping to advance a child’s

plan to implement baby sign language in your

stages, and each child is different, but there is

vocabulary, spelling and reading ability and also

routine, I recommend books based on Auslan

always a frustrating stage as babies are trying to

can accelerate the speech process.

sign language such as Tiny Talk or Australian Baby

express their needs but are not yet able to speak.

Parents also get frustrated at not knowing what their child wants.

hearing and hearing-impaired children.

and “bed”. Each time one of these activities takes

Sign language also can be very helpful for

place, you say the word and repeat the sign in

parents of babies with special needs, such as

proven way of communicating with your child

front of your baby. Then, many days, weeks or

children with Down syndrome.

when they are not yet able to communicate

months may pass before your baby starts to sign

verbally. It is most suitable for babies aged

back to you, but when they do, it’s like a big brick

between six months and 30 months. Through

wall comes down and you start communicating

repetitive signing in front of your baby, they

with your child so much more easily.

Many childcare workers also are adopting baby sign language into their centres. One morning at my daughter’s day care centre, a helicopter flew overhead and a group of about four toddlers

If you are still sceptical, just think of the basic

all looked up and started signing “helicopter”.

signs they learn such as waving goodbye,

I was so impressed I started teaching my

By eliminating this frustration and temper

blowing a kiss or clapping hands. If they can

daughter signs for “helicopter”, “car”, “plane” and

tantrums, a stronger bond is developed between

learn these signs, they can learn others in order

much more. From my experience, breaking the

you and your baby. Research has shown that

to communicate with you.

communication barrier will not only help your

can really take its toll on your nerves!

children exposed to baby sign language are generally more self-confident and have increased self-esteem. www.pakmag.com.au

are used, such as “eat”, “more”, “dog”, “cat”, “milk”

Hands. Auslan is also used in schools among both

However, baby sign language is an excellent and

gradually learn to sign instead of scream, which

38

When starting baby sign language, simple signs

There are a number of good baby sign language books available as well as lots of internet

child’s needs, but also save you from constantly guessing. www.pakmag.com.au

39

Baby

Baby books

TOILET Training

review

January 2013

BABY Hats

Starting School

Gift

idea

NEW

By Jane Godwin

Get your child Ready For Kindy

Lullabies best medicine You may not think you’re a great singer but when it comes to easing your baby’s pain and discomfort, it has recently been proven that singing lullabies to your baby is the best medicine.

Preparing for the start of kindy or prep can

Teaching young children to wear hats can be a very trying time for parents...

be stressful for parents and it seems that for a growing number of parents there is also the additional stress of worrying about whether their child is completely toilet trained. This reflects the trend towards

A study at Great Ormond Street Hospital

seems to works better than storytelling.

in London found that Twinkle Twinkle

The facial expressions you use while

Little Star, Hush a Bye Baby and other

singing are just as important in distracting

favourite well-known songs actually

your baby from their discomfort.

modern children beginning toilet training So if you’re struggling to find a hat that your baby or toddler will actually keep on their heads, check out the

at an older age compared to previous generations.

hats available at www.bedheadbaby.com.au. Bedhead

According to maternal and child health

Previous studies into the effects of music

create hats made with soft stretch cotton jersey and they

nurse and continence nurse advisor

on children’s health have found that when

have a UPF rating of 50+ so they offer great sun protection.

Janine Armocida, constipation is often the

The researchers also discovered that

lullabies were played to newborns they

Sizes start from newborn and there are a range of styles

overriding problem in delayed or incomplete

children respond best to live singing

put on more weight and were discharged

including bucket hats in a range of colours. For more info or

toilet training, and many children will

rather than a recording and music also

more quickly from intensive care.

to purchase online go to www.bedheadbaby.com.au

continue to use a nappy to poo in, long after

caused children’s heart rates to drop and they were in visibly less pain.

Redlynch

KINDY

CCB Approved • EnroL today • 3-5 yeAr olds

VotEd “Best Childcare Centre” in PakMag’s Best of Cairns awards

Learning through Play each & every day

For more information visit www.redlynchkindy.com.au or call 4055 1814 or email redlynchkindy@bigpond.com

40

www.pakmag.com.au

they have learned to urinate in the toilet.

book

This is a great book for new preppies that follows children getting ready, embarking on their first day, meeting their teacher, making new friends, playing in the playground, learning classroom rules, doing school work, packing up and going home. Published by Penguin Books RRP $24.99

Starting Kindy

"It's a good idea for parents to keep a close eye on children's toilet routines, particularly in the lead up to a new school year to make sure they aren't becoming constipated.

Often a change in routine, such as starting school or kinder, can increase the risk of constipation or even cause regression in children who have been dry for several years."

Speak to your GP if you’re concerned about your child’s bladder or bowel health. You can also call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066 (weekdays) or go to www. continence.org.au

Starting Kindy or Pre-school can be a big change for some kids but there are several ways you can ease their transition.

[1] Start getting them used to being left behind by dropping them off at play dates [2] Start letting them take on a little bit responsibility so they’re used to doing things for themselves like packing their bag [3] Talk to them about how much fun it will be and what Kindy will be like [4] Read books together that are about starting school and kindy.

100% edible

Handmade decorations

for your cakes

Our icingbits turn your cakes into works of art!

For info call 0410 107 722 or visit www.icingbits.com www.pakmag.com.au

41

Ages &

Home Alone

by Denise Bewert

Stages New Books Positive Bodies: Loving The Skin You’re In Dr Vivienne Lewis

A negative body image can lead to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem issues and problems with sexuality. This book is a fantastic tool with techniques and strategies to help men and women of any age, as well as parents of children with body issues.

Published by Australian Academic Press, RRP $34.95

There are many factors, including a child’s level of maturity, that determine the appropriate age to leave them on their own at home in the daytime.

The Queensland Criminal Code states that leaving children under the age of 12 years for an ‘unreasonable’ time could result in parents/carers being charged with a criminal offence so it is still your responsibility to make sure your child is safe.

“Share the Love”

NetworkiNg You are invited to an informative business networking opportunitY on why your business should be marketing to women.

Join us on Friday 14th February to “share the love” with our guest speakers who will share with you their business and marketing experience.

TEEN Stages Ken & Elizabeth Mellor This new edition of the classic parenting book has been updated to include sections on cyber bullying, pornography, teen suicide, social media and mentoring. While these are all very modern day issues the Mellors say they are merely variations on a theme. Published by Finch, RRP $24.99

Tackling Teens Jai and Marlies Hobbs born and bred Cairns locals and founders of Paleo Cafe will share their success with opening their Cairns Cafe and expanding the brand across Australia and soon overseas and the launch of the Paleo Cookbook in January 2014.

Friday 14 February 2014 Register your interest through www.pakmag.com.au > Registration is free

Kim Kelly owner of The Business Booth is a Senior Business Advisor and an accredited Finance Broker with over 15 years experience in the Banking & Finance industry working with both small and large business. Kim believes it’s the simple things which make the biggest difference.

School Readiness

by Megan Colahan

For many parents, sending their child off to their first year of school can be a very worrying experience. Parents commonly ask whether their child is mature enough and able to cope.

Denise Bewert Tackling Teens is written by Denise Bewert, PakMag's resident teen expert.

Given that children usually spend 13 years of their life at school it is obviously important that starting school is a positive and exciting time.

Her book provides

Help your child prepare for school by:

practical strategies to

• Encouraging them to become independent with dressing and toileting

improve communication between parents and their pre-teens and early teens and suggests ideas for dealing with a wide range of issues. Available at Collin's Bookstore Smithfield.

42

I think leaving a child alone all day even at this age is best avoided. During the holidays, if you have to work full time, make arrangements with a family member or neighbour to check on them if you can or allow them to have a friend over (as long as their parents are aware you are at work). If there is no alternative make sure that your child has a charged phone with contact numbers to call in the event of an emergency. You should also call several times during the day to check on them.

• Reading to them every day and talking about what has been read

• Encouraging them to ask questions • Providing them with opportunities to play with other children and teaching them to share and take turns • Spending time together drawing and doing fun craft activities • Speaking positively about school and talking about school routines and what to expect

RRP $19.95 www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

43

School’s Out for Summer

There is no excuse for boredom these school holidays with a range of local attractions, activities and entertainment available to keep your kids away from the TV.

programmes & Classes [1] Cairns Regional Gallery The Gallery will be running its popular school holiday art workshops again (see what’s on guide for more details). Bookings essential.

Cost: $15-18. The Great Art Hunt, an interactive children’s exhibition, will also be on display until 25 January. For further info and bookings email programs@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au or phone 4044 4800.

following kids workshops are running:

dough making, cooking, painting, story times and more. Bookings essential. Check the website at www.cairnslibrary.com.au or call 4044 3785

• 9 Jan (10am-1pm) - Make a chocolate shard cake ($69.99)

for times and program details.

• 10 Jan (10am-12pm) - Decorate cupcakes

[6] Craft n Sewing Studio

• 14 Jan (10am-12.30pm) - Decorate cupcakes

($49.99) with fondant ($69.99)

Get the kids running around for a couple of

• 15-17 Jan (10am) - 3 day learn to sew program

cake ($69.99)

• 21 Jan (10am) - Under 8’s decorate a book

Maximum 6 places per class. Location: 164-179

and a pencil

Aumuller St, Bungalow. Call 4031 4864 for more information.

www.cairnsindoorsports.com.au for more

• 22 Jan (10am & 2pm) - Make a dream catcher

information.

• 23 Jan (10am & 2pm) - Make your own clock

[9] Double Helix

[3] Surf Life Saving Qld

• 24 Jan (10am, 12pm & 2pm) - Make an Aussie

The CSIRO’s science club events for kids will be

crocodile bag tag

running at James Cook University (Room 113,

Little Lifesavers programs will be running at the

Call Glenette on 4053 4421 for more information

Esplanade Lagoon. Dates: 6-10 January & 13-17 January (8.30-10am each day). Cost: $85 per child. Email littlelifesavers@lifesaving.com.au

[4] Lil Scribblers Fifty minute art jams for 2-12 year olds.

Cost: $17. To book call 4033 0685 or email lilscribblers@gmail.com. For more information go to www.lilscribblers.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

For kids aged 8-14 years who love cakes, the

including sea creatures craft, picnic and play

• 15 Jan (10am-12.30pm) - Ombre piped layered

Mayers St, Manunda. Call 4032 2844 or go to

44

Free children’s activities for kids aged 5+

The following craft workshops will be running:

Thursdays and Fridays (1-3pm). Located: 164

50

[8] Cake Rescue

[2] Cairns Indoor Sports hours of ‘multi-sport madness’ on Wednesdays,

12

[5] Cairns Libraries

or email enquiries@craftnsewing.com.au

[7] Go Bowling Only $6 per child inc. shoe hire if you’re on the lanes before 10am. After 10am kids games are $9 for one game (inc. a soft drink). Other school holiday deals also available. Call 4053 3497 for more information. Bookings essential.

Building E1) these holidays.

• Balloon Science for 5-12 year olds (21 Jan, 10-11.30am & 12.30-2pm) • Mythbusters for 8-15 year olds (23 Jan, 10-11.30am (12.30-2pm) Cost: $15 for non-members. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Bookings essential. To book go to www.trybooking.com or email doublehelixnqld@csiro.au www.pakmag.com.au

45

School’s Out

activities for the School Holidays programmes & classes (cont’d) [10] Academy of Television

[13] Cable Ski

For kids aged 8-11 and 12-17 years there

The Kids Holiday Club introduces kids aged 6-14

are workshops running about screen acting,

to knee boarding, wakeboarding and water-

characterisation, voice & movement on 6, 8,

skiing. It runs 8.30-10am Monday-Friday.

10, 13 & 15 January (9.30-11.30am). Cost: $175.

Cost: $29 per session ($116 for the week).

Venue: Tanks. Dates: 4-14 January. For more

For more information call 4038 1304 or check

information call 4059 1141.

out www.cableskicairns.com.au

[11] Lulu's Model Management

[14] Wildlife Habitat

Two full day modelling and self improvement

The Junior Keepers Program for 8-14 year olds

classes that teach young people about skincare,

is scheduled for 7-9 & 14-16 January. It is a four-

make-up, health & nutrition, teamwork and

hour program that includes lunch and afternoon

building healthy relationships as well as

tea. It incorporates animal feeding and helping

modelling skills. Cost: $295 inc. images on a disc

the keepers in their day-to-day schedules.

from a photo shoot. Call 0449 063 763 for more

Bookings essential. Cost: $35. Call 4099 3235 or

info or go to www.lulusmodels.com.au

email info@wildlifehabitat.com.au

[12] The Young Company

[15] South Cairns Gymnastics

TYC’s summer drama program starts with

Tumble along and try out their fun and

Spooky-Natural (7 January) followed by Through

energetic gymnastic classes over the holidays

the Wardrobe (14-17 January) & The Reality

– Kindergym (2-5 years), Gymfun (5-8 years),

Games: Mockinglay (20-25 January). Each week

Gymskills (8-12 years) and Trampoline for kids

is a 4-day program (9am-3pm). Cost: $200-245

aged 8+. They’ve also got new classes in Xtreme

per course. For more information call 4041 4066

Gym (Parkour etc) and Acro-Tumble. Cost: $12.

or go to www.theyoungcompany.com.au

Call 4045 2947 for more information or go to www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

Shopping Centres • Cairns Central – Search for a Superstar talent quest (13-18 January).

Elmo & the Cookie Monster will be performing everyday 21-25 January (10am, 11am & 12pm). There will be lots of other Sesame Street activities too. Go to www.cairnscentral.com.au for more info.

• Stockland – Dinosaur Craft Activities 13-17 January (10am-2pm). Grassy Head Workshops 20-24 January (10am-2pm)

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Fun

Daytrips 5 Family Days Out

[1] Cairns Zoom Older kids and teenagers will absolutely love Cairns’ newest tourist attraction at the Wildlife Dome. The lower mid-ropes course has a minimum height requirement of 120cm. Participants must be a minimum of 140cm for the more challenging high-ropes course. Cost: $45-75 [2] Aussie Farm Entertainment at Spurwood Springs Farm Ride horses, milk cows, pat the lambs, feed the calves and sit on a bullock.

Accommodation also available. Bookings essential. Cost: $110 for a family of five. Call 4065 3310.

[3] Mossman Gorge Listen to a local Indigenous guide tell their stories about life in the rainforest during a Dreamtime Gorge Walk. Family pass $125.

It’s Party

Time!

Book your child’s next Birthday Party at Cairns Indoor Sports They can choose from Cricket, Netball, Soccer, Beach Volleyball & Dodgeball. Come & relax while your children have a blast!

Multi-Sport

Madness Every school holidays:

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday from 1pm to 3pm Cost is only $7 per child per session. All ages catered for.

ComE & Play Indoor CrICkET, nETBall, SoCCEr, BEaCh VollEyBall & dodgEBall.

164 Mayers St, Manunda Phone: 4032 2844 web: www.cairnsindoorsports.com.au

[4] Blazing Saddles Quad bike riding and horse riding. Cost from $95. Call 4055 7400 for more info or go to www.blazingsaddles.com.au [5] Daintree Discovery Centre A two hour drive north to learn about the rainforest. Family rate $78 less 20% for locals.

Beat the Heat!

[1] Sugarworld Always a winner with the kids during the summer holidays.

[2] Paradise Palms Adventure playground, mini-golf and a big swimming pool. Cost: $4 kids, $6 adults for pool and playground. Mini-golf extra.

[3] Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park Try out the new water park. Family day passes inc. use of all park facilities costs $25 Mon-Thurs. Call 4065 6166.

[4] Woree Aquatic & Sport Centre Check out the new 18 metre inflatable obstacle course. Family pass $20.

[5] Cable Ski Cairns Kneeboarding and wakeboarding lessons for beginners and kids aged 6-12 years.

Monday, Wednesday & Friday (8.30-10am).

Call 4038 1304 for more info or go to www. cableskicairns.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

47

By Rachel Holiday

Split, Jump&

Tumble

With a new school year just around the corner, why not enrol your child in a sport that is fun, energetic and encourages teamwork? With so many opportunities for athletic progression in Cairns, cheerleading is a great extra-curricular option for your child.

The whistle is about to blow for the NBL Taipans

Dance Championships, which was hosted this

And, why should the kids have all the fun?

home game when a group of children take the

year by Cairns’ very own Awesome Cheerleading.

Parents, if you fancy giving cheerleading a go,

stadium by storm. Donning their signature bright orange uniforms with sparkling smiles to match as they form a perfect pyramid formation, it’s easy to forget that these girls are just 5-12 years old. But it seems their team spirit is just as strong as their performance and as Dance 2XS teacher Katherine Robertson comments, “Cheerleading is a fantastic way to build fitness and friendships.”

Run by committed coach Tamara Manning, Awesome Cheerleading offers a competitive and action-packed cheerleading program for all ages. The school concentrates on American style cheerleading: a combination of tumbles, jumps, dance and stunts. Awesome Cheerleading of the country’s most prestigious cheer events, including the AASCF National Championships.

four years old, Dance 2XS Cheerleading offers

The athletes also perform regularly at community

children the opportunity to progress in the

events such as this year’s Cairns Show and the

sport by attending weekly lessons, which may

Swisse Colour Run.

the Taipans Mini Squad. Yes, your child could be the next NBL cheerleading star! 2XS hold weekly classes during term time so check out their website at 2xs.com.au to find out how to enrol.

from two year old tots all the way through to adults. The classes run from Monday to Sunday at the schools fully equipped cheer gym. If you want to find out more go to www. awesomecheerleading.com

gives children the chance to perform in some

With classes starting for children as young as

ultimately lead to them being able to audition for

Awesome Cheerleading offers classes starting

Cheerleading is great fun for kids and for those

Awesome Benefits The benefits of cheerleading are spelled out by the ‘Awesome Cheerleaders’: C - Creativity

who want to go on and take it more seriously,

H - Health

it offers many opportunities for progression.

E - Enjoyment

Several former students of Awesome Cheerleading are now cheering for the Brisbane

E – Equality

At the other side of town, the crowd watches

Broncos, prestigious university teams and even starting their own cheer schools.

R - Rewarding

in awe as a young woman performs a fast flip mid-air. It’s the Far North Queensland Cheer and

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49

Daytrip January 2014

Magnetic Island

FERRY PASS

special

Sealink Family Pass Take your family over to Magnetic Island for the day and get return ferry trips, car hire and a drink on the ferry for $130.

The Views

Magnetic

Island Story thanks to Amanda Cranston

Only eight kilometres from Townsville and made up of 70% national park, Magnetic Island is a tropical paradise.

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Tourism and Events Queensland

Tourism and Events Queensland

Tourism and Events Queensland

Beach

Our first stop was to Bungalow Bay Koala Village

Taking in the sights we enjoyed a walk to The

in Horseshoe Bay. We missed out on the popular

Forts which had a lookout over Radical Bay, but

bush breakfast tour as a result of missing the

we didn’t spot any koalas along the walk no

early morning ferry, but we enjoyed a two-hour

matter how hard we looked. And then it was

If you're staying in the Townsville area

hands-on tour with everyone getting to touch

onto Alma Bay to spot a rock wallaby. These

in the January school holidays check

and hold the wildlife. We held a baby saltwater

gorgeous little animals live amongst the rocks

out the Holiday Inn Townsville for

crocodile, a wombat, snake, koala, cockatoo and

and if you stand still long enough and put out

accommodation. They are offering 20%

lizards, taking plenty of photos as our tour guide

some kangaroo food they slowly come down to

off their best flexible rate in the

Tony passed the animals around. It was definitely

eat. We were lucky enough to see a mum with a

holidays. It includes a complimentary

the highlight of our day on the island. Before we

joey in her pouch, getting some great photos as

breakfast and kids stay and eat for free

left we were given a bag of kangaroo food to

the curious joey popped its head out for a look.

with a paying adult. Call 4729 2011 or go

feed the rock wallabies at Alma Bay, so set off to explore.

Before returning the car we took a drive to the other side of the island past Nelly Bay to Picnic

About two kilometres down the road is the town

Bay. With a population of about 2,500 there was a

of Horseshoe Bay and it is abuzz with trendy

school and residential area and it was easy to see

A 25 minute ferry ride over on Sealink will drop you

little cafes lined along the waterfront and lots of

why so many people choose to live on the island.

off at Nelly Bay where you can catch a bus or hire a car

adventure activities available from jet-skiing to

There wasn’t much traffic and everyone seemed

to explore the island and its 23 bays and beaches. We

horse riding. While there, a local suggested we

so laid back and relaxed. In fact, next time we

recently took a day trip to Magnetic Island and chose a

head to the Arcadia Hotel for lunch as the kids

might stay a little longer and make a whole

little pink topless mini-moke as our mode of transport

could have a swim in the pool and we were easily

weekend of it.

for the day and the kids loved it. It was really easy to get

enticed since the weather was so hot. There was

around as the island is only about 10 kilometres long

a Convention on at the Arcadia Hotel for the

with four small towns – Picnic Bay, Nelly Bay, Arcadia and

weekend so it was incredibly busy but the food

Horseshoe Bay.

was good and the pool was even better.

Hotel Deal

to www.holidayinn.com/townsville for more information.

www.pakmag.com.au

51

Travel January 2013 guide

Kylie Stokes

Personal Travel Manager T: 1300 724 199 E: kylie.stokes@travelmanagers.com.au www.my.travelmanager.com.au/KylieStokes

Australian Holidays! great

Travel

Specialising in family holidays worldwide License No: QLD: 3168806 ACN: 113 085 626 Member: IATA, AFTA, ICCA Accredited Consultant

ideas

By Kylie Stokes (Travel Managers)

Tourism and Events Queensland

Australia has such a diverse range of great family holiday experiences that we really don’t need to travel very far.

Self-drive holidays are a great way to see the country and packaging car hire and accommodation or motorhome hire, makes it an affordable option that also gives you flexibility.

However, some destinations such as the Northern Territory call for an experienced guide to help get the most out of them so combine a self-drive holiday with guided sightseeing.

Favourite Family Destinations in Australia: The Gold Coast – perfect for an action packed holiday visiting theme parks.

Sydney – a cultural city holiday has plenty to keep them entertained with interactive exhibits at the many museums, the world's largest IMAX theatre and Taronga Zoo. The Top End and Red Centre – visit Australian icons such as Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kings Canyon and Kakadu National Park.

Monkey Mia – get up close and personal with the dolphins when they come in to shore to feed or take a camel ride along the beach for a unique perspective of the local scenery.

Daydream Island – kids club, shark and stingray feeding (in one of the world’s largest outdoor aquariums), mini golf, a wide range of water sports and an outdoor cinema Snowy Mountains – world class alpine resorts offering great skiing and snowboarding from June to early October.

Tourism and Events Queensland

Cruise – Some cruise lines have domestic itineraries usually operating along the Queensland coast. Check current identification requirements with the cruise line or your travel agent prior to booking.

Top Tip: If you’re planning on travelling during school holidays, plan your trip well in advance to get the best deals.

Visit: www.my.travelmanager.com.au/KylieStokes

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www.pakmag.com.au

53

Home edition

Gardens

JAN 2013 Design Tips

TIPS Encourage a love of the outdoors with these garden design tips

Veggie Patch

lazy Time Kids love hammocks in the garden but lazy zones can also be created with some beanbags, mozzie nets hung from a tree, or a picnic rug with cushions.

These Mocka Joey chairs are like a gorgeous hanging beanbag (available from www.mocka.com.au, $59.95-$89.95)

Playful Gardens

Story thanks to Amanda Cranston

Kidding Around

Enchanted Garden

Growing Up

Designate a corner of the garden as a

• Playtime is made extra special in the

Encourage a love of nature by adding

total kids space where they can embrace

holidays with a tepee or playhouse.

a vegie patch. Plant straight into the

the outdoors, play and get dirty. Attach a

Check out www.limetreekids.com.au

ground or into tyres, planter boxes, old

blackboard to the fence or cubby where

($99.95) or the huge collection on

wagon wheels, wheelbarrows, old baths,

they can write messages like “Keep out” or

www.etsy.com

barrels or store-bought raised garden

“Kids Only”.

Fun & Games Swing sets might be the norm for family

Turning your backyard into a playful retreat where the kids can play, explore, create and dream simply requires dedicated space and a pinch of imagination 54

www.pakmag.com.au

backyards but to really entice your kids

• For a little bit of extra magic create a fairy garden with Enchanted Garden Kits from NQ online business Garden Sparkle (www.facebook.com/gardensparkle)

beds. Make it extra fun with a scarecrow, noisy wind chimes and weather station.

Make it Your Own Let your imagination run wild and add

outside, spark some backyard adventures

• Hang sparkly mobiles, wind chimes, red

creative touches to your outdoor space

with rope swings, telescopes, pirate flags,

toadstools with white poker dots and

such as a music station with hanging tins,

steering wheels, binoculars, an old boat,

fairy lights

pots, utensils or wooden signs pointing

tepees, pots and muffin trays for making mud pies and anything else your kids will need to sail the high seas, go on safari or oversee their kingdom.

• Set up a table and chairs for afternoon garden tea parties.

to your fairy garden and vegie garden.

Perhaps cast footprints or handprints of your family members into clay tiles and then lay them in your garden, paint lots

of little birdhouses bright colours and attach them to your fence or hang them around your garden, or make a family of scarecrows to represent each family member and have fun creating their scary look. Whatever you do, making your outdoor space a fun place to be will help nurture a love of the great outdoors and entice your kids away from the TV.

Cubby Houses Kids love cubby houses and the addition of climbing walls, scramble nets, slides and swings gives them opportunities to improve their physical coordination.

Check out NQ business ‘Grand Gazebos and Cubbies’ who provide kit cubbies with a variety of optional extras. www.grandgazebos.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

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Home edition

JAN 2013 if it needs painting, we have the paint. automotive, house, industrial, marine, texture Coatings, timber Finishes, trade Paint & sign suPPlies markets See us, the paint experts, before you buy paint anywhere else. (note: Men – please bring your wifes permission slip to purchase paint without her being present.)

Design Tips

Stop,Drop & Go diyhome

By Sofie Buchholz

Now is a good time to start thinking about creating a ‘family organisation station’ in your home to organise all the books, uniforms, bags and stationery that go back and forth to school.

oPening hours monday to Friday 7am-5pm • saturday 8am-1pm

Wholesale Paint Cairns

80 Aumuller St • Phone 4035 2000 • Email sales@cwp.com.au

Quality built with pride

• 16 years local building industry experience • FREE QuotEs to the Cairns and FNQ region Call 4056 3089 or visit www.ashleejoneshomes.com.au

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Creating a single multi use family space where school items are kept and organised will not only help you stay on top of things but will also enable your kids to take ownership of the system too. A little organisation goes a long ways towards easing the morning rush.

• Choose a space to locate your ‘station’. Near the front door is a good choice as things are naturally ‘dumped’ in this area.

•

Use an old table, shelf or cupboard as your ‘organisation station’. Style it to fit your current décor so it becomes integrated within your home. Adding a pop of colour and working with existing items, such as the purple wall featured, helps determine a colour scheme and saves money.

•

Mount a desk style calendar onto the wall where all important family and school dates can be recorded. It is a quick visual check for all family members’ comings and goings.

•

Give each child in the family their own notice board where timetables and other information can be kept.

Make them look interesting by covering them in fabric and individualising them with each child’s initial.

•

Create a system of in trays - one for all incoming correspondence and homework from school bags and one for each child for things that need to be packed into their bag to go to school eg. signed permission slips. It then becomes the responsibility of the child to pack the contents of that in tray into their school bag.

•

Create a place to store all the school bags. Hooks attached to the wall or table are an easy option.

Baskets under a table are good for storing bulky items like library books and sporting equipment.

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57

BIZDirectory

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Services

entertainment

entertainment

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Piano Lessons

with Tim Canning & 4053 4145 or 0438 818 668

BMus, GDipMus, MTAQ (Prof)

IT’S PARTY TIME!

Face painting appeals to kids of all ages, in fact, they will line up for almost an hour just to have their face decorated as a superhero, an animal or a butterfly.

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Manunda EarlvillE WorEE EsplanadE CEntral rEdlynCh sMithfiEld City GordonvalE innisfail

www.pakmag.com.au

childcare Services

colour imaginable, initially start off with just

exactly what the attraction is, local face

white, black and primary colours red, blue and

painter Nikki Lowmass (a.k.a Nikki the Clown)

yellow. White and black help the design stand

says the most requested designs she gets

out, drawing your eyes to the other colours.

are butterflies and fairies for little girls and

You will also need to choose between liquid

Spiderman, skulls, tigers, lions and cheetahs

face paint or cake face paint, weighing up

from good to amazing.

for boys. With the school holidays here

costs and whichever you find easier to apply.

[5] Removing Face Paint

we asked her to give us some tips for face

4057 8019 or 0408 183 032 www.nikkitheclown.com

To add extra pizzazz to your face painting design, little white or black dots, some glitter or stick on jewels can really turn your design

[3] Applying the Face Paint

Non-perfumed baby wipes or face cream

[1] Design Inspiration

Nikki suggests using soft brushes to apply

is the best way to remove face paint. Avoid

the face paint with a number two brush for

scrubbing.

Nikki suggests searching online for images of

drawing thin lines and a number four or six

face painting designs you want to try. Some

brush for round or slightly thicker lines. She

[6] Washing Tools

websites even show step-by-step instructions

recommends cutting up cheap car sponge

Nikki suggests rinsing out face painting

with pictures from the beginning of a design

into smaller pieces to apply the face paint. Use

sponges under running water to remove the

through to the finished face.

a spray bottle to slightly wet the sponge, then

majority of the paint first and then washing

dab it in the cake paint and spread evenly on

them in a ’delicates’ laundry bag in the

to the face. Another handy tool is cotton buds

washing machine. Brushes can be cleaned in

for adding glitter or lipstick, especially if you

warm water and then left in the sun to dry. It is

are face painting more than one face.

important to clean your brushes and sponges

painting at home.

[2] Colours • Face Painting • Puppets • Balloons • Games • Music • Other costumes available

[4] Embellishments

While we haven’t been able to pinpoint

You only need a few colours so Nikki says instead of outlaying a lot of money on every

after each time you use them.

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59

out&about

submit your photos

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

s Luke & Jack with Flip Ripley at Cazaly

Liam & Rachel at Mummy Central

Adrian, Ryan, Madison & Karen at Caz

at MYER

alys

Taug & Credence at Cazalys

Merton & Jasmin at Cazalys

Facepainting fun at Cazalys

Tallis at Cazalys

Email your photo, name/s & location to: photos@pakmag.com.au • Deadline for photos is 18 January for the February 2014 edition of Pakmag

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Meg & Codotto

Trey at Mummy Central

Takae & Sienna at Mummy Central

Chloe at Mummy Central

at MYER

Lewis, Charlotte & Toni

Email your photo, name/s & location to: photos@pakmag.com.au • Deadline for photos is 18 January for the February 2014 edition of Pakmag

www.pakmag.com.au

61

Pets fav

Fav Pet Shot of the month will WIN a bag of Hill’s Pet Food donated by Hill’s and sponsored by Cairns Veterinary Clinic

Cairns Veterinary Clinic

January entries

Preparing Pets for Cyclones. Are your pet’s part of your emergency plan?

Aurora loved by Oberon

Nellie loved by Gillian

With cyclone season upon us, many of you will

[2] Keep a record of the contact details of your

have checked and restocked your emergency

vet, local animal welfare agencies such as the

We hope that we won’t have to test our

kits, but did you consider your pet’s needs?

RSPCA and local Council Animal Control Office.

cyclone preparation this year, but in the

Cyclones can be frightening not only for humans

[3] Ensure your pet has up to date vaccinations

event of a cyclone, it’s good to know that

but also for pets. The animals in our lives depend solely on us for their safety and wellbeing so

PRIZE winner

a well thought out emergency plan, which includes your pets, can reduce the risks and Nibbles loved by Mitchell

Jet loved by Wade

Email your photo, name/s & address to: photos@pakmag.com.au • Deadline for photos is 18 January for the February 2014 edition of Pakmag.

ensure the safety of all family members.

[5] Keep a current photo of your pet in case

[6] Before the storm prepare an easily cleaned

[1] Ensure you have adequate restraint:

pet. Provide a supply of newspaper for their

room such as the bathroom or laundry for your toileting needs and blankets for comfort.

sturdy pet carrier, which is large enough for

[7] Have two weeks supply of water, food and any

your pet to stand and turn around in, is

medications that may be needed for each pet.

shelter for your pet during the storm. Make sure you label the carrier with your pets name, breed, sex, date of birth, your current address and contact details and any important medical information.

[1] pakmag prints 10,000 copies every month [2] pakmag distributes to every McDonalds, IGA and Calanna Pharmacy in the Cairns region.

[3] pakmag targets parents of ‘beans to teens’

out plan should the worst happen.

as an implanted microchip.

Tips for preparing your pet for cyclone season:

essential. They also can be used as a safe

3 reasons to use pakmag:

tag and a second method of identification such

you are prepared and have a well thought

your pet is lost.

• For cats, small dogs and small furry pets a

cairns’s family maGazine for parents of “beans to teens”

[4] Make sure your pet has a current registration

• For larger dogs ensure you have a good quality lead in your emergency kit. During storms restrain your dog on the lead at all times and keep them close by.

[8] If you have to leave your pet home alone during the cyclone threat leave a note inside the front door of the property or on the outside of the door stating how many pets are contained on the property, what kind of pets they are and where they can be found.

[9] After the cyclone threat has passed keep pets inside until any damage has been assessed and be careful when releasing animals as they may be frightened or disorientated.

39,989 families consisting of: 3382 babies, 16347 one-five yr olds & 18176 five-fourteen yr olds

check out what we can do for your business Call Angelina on 4053 3331 or email angelina@pakmag.com.au to see how we can help your biz in the family market - FREE opportunities exist

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63

KIDS

FUN edition

JAN 2014

Crazy Cooking Story thanks to Amanda Cranston Kids getting a bit bored? Why not get them busy in the kitchen with these crazy, fun cooking ideas.

[1] Layered jellies – Use clear plastic cups so you can see your handiwork and make layers of jelly in different colours. Each layer needs to set before adding the next but you can make a rainbow or traffic light layered jelly of red, yellow and green.

[2] Colourful fruit skewers – All you need for these are skewers and a range of fruits in different colours and then colour-coordinate the fruit all the way up the skewer.

[3] Make your own ice-cream flavouRS – Buy a large tub of vanilla ice cream and divide it into a few different mixing bowls. In each bowl make your own individual flavour of ice cream by adding treats like smarties, crushed honeycomb, choc chips, etc. Then put each flavour in a plastic container with a lid and refreeze until ready to eat.

[4] Blue jelly aquariums – Fill a large glass punchbowl, fishbowl or mixing bowl with a mixture of blue food colouring, gelatin, flat soda water and soft fish lollies to make an edible ‘fish tank’. (Recipe on our website) [7] Toffee apples – These are sticky and gooey but so much fun. You will need some unused ice-cream sticks and apples, caster sugar, liquid glucose, white vinegar and red food colouring (recipe on our website). You can also decorate plain apples by covering them in peanut butter and sticking nuts, cornflakes or smarties on them.

[8] Fortune cookies – Create your own fortune cookies and fill them with jokes, inspirational quotes or fun and silly dares. These can be a little time consuming to make as you can only make a couple at a time but it is rewarding and exciting to make your own.

[9] Rainbow layered pancakes – Kids will love making these bright coloured pancakes all stacked on top of each other. All you need is a basic pancake recipe and then separate the mixture between a few different bowls.

Add a decent amount of food colouring to each bowl (a different colour to each bowl) and then cook the pancakes and stack the different colours on top of each other.

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[9] Jelly filled oranges (sliced) – These look awesome and they are very easy to make. Cut a few oranges in half and scoop out the flesh, then make up some jelly mixtures in different colours and pour into the orange skins. When they are all set, slice the oranges so you have slices of coloured jellies.