PakMag Mackay - February 2014

pakmag FEB 2014

M a c k ay

EzEine FMRaga

ISSUE 16

magazine of choice for local families

Sports

Sign-up

• Sports Expo on 9 February • NRL Junior Rugby League • Fantastic Gymnastics

Heart KIDS

Kids

MINI MAG Inside

Event

Guide

Cover photo: Ta Da Photography

Awareness Month

win Create & Play with Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set

Details page 24

08 welcome

02

15

Contents

note

FEB

Hello everyone and welcome to our February edition. The kids are back at school and it’s that time of year to start deciding about our kids sport and extra-curricular activities. There are so many choices! Do we do rugby?

Cricket? Circus arts or BMX riding?

parents

kids

If, like me, you’re having difficulty finding something active that works

02 What’s New

for your kids, check out the Sports

04 Extra Curricular Activities

Expo & Sign-On Day on 9 February.

This month is also Childhood Heart Disease Awareness month so we have

07 Mackay Christian College 08 Broken Heart

23 Kid’s MiniMag

babies

interviewed a local family affected by

11

Psychological First Aid

this condition. HeartKids a charity that

12

Education Report Card

15

PakHealth

disease throughout February.

16

Nutrition

Hope you all manage to get some

19

PakRecipes

romance this month - Happy

20 Top 5 Things To Do

24 WIN a Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set

21 What’s On

32 WIN a Dreambaby® Savannah Gate

23 Mini Mag

40 WIN a mystery prize

provides support to families will be raising awareness and funding of this

Valentines Day! Until next time, tell everyone you read it in PakMag

Angela Publisher: Bree James Editor: Elaine Seager Publication Manager: Angela Julian NQ Sales & Biz Development: Angelina Mortley Design & Layout: Trina Jensen Articles: Elaine Seager, Jutta Dempsey, Amanda Cranston and submitted writers Mobile: 0427 725 624 Head office Phone: 4053 3331

things to win

31 PakBaby 35 TRAVEL: Heaven for Kids

pakmag

32 Baby News: Safe Sleeping

37 Mackay Cutters 39 Fantastic Gymnastics 40 Fav Pets/Prize Winners 41 Kids Artwork

cover Model: Sophie Bruhns Photography: Thanks to Ta Da Photography

42 Out & About 44 HOME: Stylish Storage 47 HOME: Feeling Flat?

46 HOME: Sport Themed Room

Email: mackay@pakmag.com.au Postal: PO Box 1922, Mackay Qld 4740 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.

Find PakMag exclusively in:

www.pakmag.com.au

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February what’s new

inBRIEF SPORTS Expo

FREE

EVENT

Ready Steady Go Kids PAK Panel 11 February (9am-12pm) Caneland Central, Esquires

At this month’s Mummy Central at Caneland Central PakMag will be hosting a PakPanel. We’ve invited three people to come along and speak on a range of topics as follows: • Rhonda Muller from ASD Healthy Life will be

9 February (10am-2pm) MECC

discussing healthy lunchbox items and snacks for toddlers and kids

BRING your Baby

• Dr. Olivia Scott from Little Sprouts Chiropractic will be talking about children’s health and the weight of school backpacks

The region’s largest, free showcase of sport and recreation clubs takes place this month with over 100 clubs due to attend. Shane Webcke will also be there to encourage families to take an interest

• An officer from the PCYC will be discussing bullying and stranger danger

Birch Carroll & Coyle ‘Bring Your Baby sessions’ this month are:

Australia’s largest multi-sport and exercise program for preschoolers arrived in Mackay last year. Developed in 2004 with classes held all over Australia, Ready Steady Go Kids is a fun,

• Saving Mr. Banks

outrigging will be on display and local State teams will be there to inspire our next generation of

There will be an opportunity for questions so come

high quality, physio designed sport and exercise program for two-and-a-half to six year olds.

Week commencing 1 February

sporting stars. Thanks to it’s sponsors there will also be plenty of prizes up for grabs.

along and chat to our experts.

According to Mackay franchise owner Renae Currie “The program gives young children an

• The Book Thief

in being active and to sign autographs. Activities including cricket, archery, gymnastics and

If you haven’t already signed up to become a member of Mummy Central, go to the Customer Service Desk

Kids Art Club

introduction to a number of different sports in a fun, inclusive and safe environment.” Classes run during school term. Call Renae on 0419 753 660 for sign on details.

Week commencing 6 February • Mandela: Walk to Freedom

and find out how you can access various retailer offers

Week commencing 13 February

and discounts.

• Last Vegas

PURPLE Day Ball

FACE Painter

Week commencing 20 February • Endless Love Week commencing 27 February

Looking for a face painter for your next kid’s party? Carlie Eales is a qualified

Session times are Fridays (10.30am), Mondays

Early Education Teacher who has branched out and embraced her creative side with a face

(10.30am) and Wednesdays (12.30pm). All children

painting business. Find her on Facebook.

under school age are welcome and free of charge.

Mackay’s faMily MaGazine for parents of “beans to teens”

Artspace Mackay

3 reasons to use pakmag:

22 March

Artspace Mackay are now taking bookings

Mackay through fun-filled, exhibition related

for Term 1 of Kids Art Club, their ongoing

art activities.

term-based art program for kids.

This bi-annual event raises funds for Epilepsy Services,

Cost: $150 per child, includes materials each

Education and Research. It is a black tie event with a

Rosemary Payne delivers this rich six-week

week. Dates: 15 February-22 March. Times:

charity auction, comedy hosts and key-note speakers

program of creative art for kids in two age

10am for kids aged 6-8 years, 1pm for kids

and live entertainment. Tickets cost $150 and include a

groups. Each week they explore and respond

aged 9 - 12 years. Bookings essential. Call

three course meal and drinks. Call 4961 9777 for more

to the exhibitions on show at Artspace

4961 9722 to book.

information.

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[1] pakmag prints 10,000 copies every month [2] pakmag distributes to every McDonalds, Coles and Healthpoint Chemist in the Mackay region.

[3] pakmag targets parents of ‘beans to teens’ 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 PakMag on 4053 3331 or visit www.pakmag.com.au to see how we can help your biz in the family market - FREE opportunities exist www.pakmag.com.au

3

M

Family

Issues Story thanks to Amanda Cranston

ost children are involved in at least

addresses this topic in his book The New Six-

one activity per week outside of

Point Plan for Raising Happy, Healthy Children.

school whether it’s a sport, dance,

He argues that children don’t actually need

art or learning a musical instrument. However,

extra-curricular activities at all. “The trend in

some children are participating in extra curricular

recent years has been toward structuring a

activities every day of the week and when there

child’s time with such activities as organised

is more than one child in the family, this makes

sports, music lessons, classes in etiquette and

for a pretty hectic family life. Not to mention the

early academic instruction. We mistakenly

financial cost.

believe that these things are more meaningful

Psychologist Jutta Dempsey says apart from the financial burden on parents there are also physiological, social and emotional effects on children when engaging in too many activities.

“It can lead to stress which affects a child’s moods and their ability to relate to others,” she says. She also says that some of the signs your child may be feeling stressed and overloaded include moodiness, physical ailments like

independently and that they develop through imaginative and creative play. Basically, kids need to be allowed to be kids.

all the after-school sports and activities that

of stress. “Having only a few structured activities is better than too many, and parents should encourage their children to take up only activities they are passionate about,” Jutta says. “It is important for kids to be involved in activities they love otherwise it can begin to feel like a chore.”

kids are involved in, not to mention homework, there’s just no time. I contend that many children are growing up without an adequate sense of what family really and truly means,” he says. John suggests children are not contributing to the family like previous generations did and instead are being driven around to and from activities, which is breeding a generation of kids who feel they are entitled because their needs are always put first ahead of what’s right for the family as a whole. He believes that by taking children out of all after-school activities, families will enjoy a

With long days in the classroom and then

more harmonious environment and kids will live

homework after school, it is important for

more carefree childhoods with less stress and

children to also have sufficient unstructured

behavioural problems.

downtime in their week so they can relax, spend time with friends and to interact with family.

Constantly rushing from one activity to the next with minimal downtime can cause, not only the child, but the whole family to feel stressed, and

www.pakmag.com.au

to know how to entertain themselves and play

perfectionism.

coping and whether or not they are showing signs

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for themselves.” He believes that children need

curricular activities means less family time. “With

that parents need to be aware of how their child is

do the amount of extra curricular activities your children are engaged in become too much?

have not learned how to plan and do things

wetting, clinginess and self doubt or extreme

participate in. More importantly, Jutta suggests

While most kids are enrolled in at least one activity per week, the big question for most families is when

planned for them, many of today’s children

John also points out that too many extra-

rule regarding an ideal number of activities to

How much is too much?

says. “Furthermore, because so much has been

headaches and stomach aches, unexplained bed

She says all children are different and there is no

Extra Curricular Activities:

than play, when exactly the opposite is true,” he

relationships may suffer.

Of course, every child and every family is different.

If you’ve got a budding Olympic champion in your family you may make a very different decision to other parents on this topic. However, at the end of the day we must all make what we believe are the best choices for our own family.

Family psychologist and author John Rosemond

KEY Points Be selective – encourage your children to only participate in those activities that they love to do Downtime - Plan for plenty of unstructured play time and family time Stress symptoms – watch for signs that your children are becoming too overloaded with activities with not enough time to just relax www.pakmag.com.au

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Written by Dr Craig Murison

Good Manners People with good manners are at a major advantage in life but manners seem less valued in modern society than they were in the past.

Polite well-mannered people have a big

of the big things take care of themselves. Just

it directly they are telling their child that in this

advantage over rude impolite people. They will

reflect on that statement again: when you look

relationship the child should do what the parent

find and keep employment, make and keep

after the little things the big things look after

is asking them to do.

friends, have a happier marriage, and probably

themselves.

have higher life-time earnings, on average, than their ill-mannered peers. Yet, it seems to me, manners are not valued as much today as they were in the past. As I have reflected on why this might be so, I have wondered whether parents have given up on manners. Perhaps they grew up in homes where manners were not valued. Or perhaps the pressures of time, in the busy lives we lead today, just mean good manners have ended up in the “too hard” basket.

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Consistently reinforcing good manners, from

My point is that the gentle reminders of good

a very young age, gives children a distinct

manners and consistent consequences for bad

advantage when they are older. At the same time,

manners, as well as improving employability and

it establishes and continuously reminds them of

life satisfaction, provide a constant opportunity

the parent child relationship. When significant

for parents to remind their children of the nature

issues arise, where the parent really needs a child

of the parent child relationship. Every time a

to be obedient, the argument will be shorter if

parent requires their child to say please and

this relationship has been clearly established.

thank you, to express gratitude for a meal or to say “excuse me” rather than just butting in when they want, they are also reminding the child that

Remember, kids don’t need parents to be their

In my experience, when you are dealing with

in their relationship they are the grown up and

friends. They need them to be their parents.

children, if you look after the little things most

the child is just that, a child. Without ever saying

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By Michelle Dryburgh

Six babies are born with a heart defect in

“He’s still smaller than other boys his age so he’s

Australia every day. There is no known cure or

got some catching up to do but he has so much

prevention, but medical advances are greatly

energy now, it’s so good to see,” she says.

improving the outcomes for children and for the first time in history, there are more people over the age of 16 with CHD than younger.

“The doctors were so great and everyone at the hospital is really supportive. They gave Chloe a book to read and a doll with a gown on it to

It is estimated 32,000 Australian children are

help explain what was happening and ease the

now living with the condition. Mackay toddler

situation. She coped relatively well and it was

Liam Gray is one of them, born seven weeks

just so nice we could all be together at such a

premature with two holes in his heart. But after

difficult time.”

lifesaving open heart surgery 12 months ago, he is a happy, thriving two-year-old. Or as older sister Chloe, 5, explains, “Liam had a broken heart, and the doctors had to fix it.”

Liam will require yearly check-ups for his heart condition as well as close monitoring of his other health problems, but Sheree says she couldn’t be happier with the outcome for her

Mum Sheree learnt something was wrong at

son. She encourages all expecting mothers to

her 20 week ultrasound. Her baby’s organs

ask questions at their 20 week scans to check

were in the wrong position and she was told

for signs of a heart defect, and welcomes

she would have to travel to Townsville to give

anyone wanting support or more information

birth. “It was pretty daunting news to hear,”

about CHD to contact the Mackay HeartKids

she recalls. “I’d had a baby before and she was

Group on 0429 198 900, email gribbet7@

healthy, nothing went wrong. I wasn’t prepared

hotmail.com or search HeartKids Awareness

for anything like this.”

on Facebook.

Liam was also born with other health anomalies, but of most concern were the holes

establish a HeartKids support group in Mackay

Six questions every mum should ask at the 20 week ultrasound:

for other families in a similar situation. “We get

As recommended by HeartKidsQLD

in his heart. He required regular appointments with an array of medical specialists, and Sheree soon realised her son wasn’t alone. She helped

together and have a coffee, talk about our kids and try to support new mums and dads going through it,” she says. “It’s so overwhelming in the beginning. But I think it gives them peace of mind to see it can turn out okay.”

1. Do you see four chambers?

2. Do you look at the arteries or outflow tracks as part of your

Broken

Heart

Among them is Sheree’s sister Lisa. She gave

scan? It is extremely important to focus

birth to baby Jayda just three months after Liam

on artery views because CHD is often

was born, and discovered her daughter had the

missed if only a standard ‘chamber view’

same heart defect. “We were shocked both our

is performed.

children had it, there’s no history of CHD in our family,” Sheree says. “The kids are very close.

They play a lot together and their faces light up when they see each other.”

The holes in Liam’s heart were successfully closed during open-heart surgery in Brisbane when he was 17 months old. Sheree and Chloe

should lay on the left side of the Foetus.

4. Is the heart rate normal?

A normal heart rate range for a Foetus is 120-180 beats per minute.

stayed in the Ronald McDonald House for two

aiming to raise awareness and understanding

weeks while Liam recovered from the operation.

irregular? Too slow (less than 100

Until then, he had never crawled or even rolled

beats per minute), too fast (over 200

and woke constantly through the night. Now

beats per minute).

cause of death in children under one.

he’s growing, putting on weight, walking and sleeping through the night. Sheree never imagined the change could be so dramatic.

www.pakmag.com.au

in correct positions? Both organs

February is HeartKids Awareness Month,

of congenital heart disease – the number one

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3. Are the heart and stomach

5. Is the heart rate too slow or

6. Is the heart function normal?

Does the muscle work normally? Is everything hooked-up correctly? www.pakmag.com.au

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By Robert Gronbeck

PsychologicalFirstAid Sports and extra curricular activities provide challenges and opportunities for children but when the experience is less than positive some ‘psychological first aid’ may be needed.

Spraining an ankle at basketball, fainting at the

Applying a bit of Psychological First Aid has

be worthwhile consulting with professional who

musical recital, suffering a mental block or lapse

been shown to be most effective. Rather than

can assist them in learning about their emotions,

of concentration at a crucial point of a game or

rehashing the event or having a good cry, the

learning new methods of problem solving,

performance - these are just some of the many

best approach can be remembered as LOOK,

promoting helpful thinking and rebuilding social

experiences that can leave lasting affects on our

LISTEN, and LINK. Look for ways to offer practical

connections (often the cause of embarrassment

children. As parents it can be tricky determining

care and check for serious distress or shock

in these scenarios).

the best way to handle our children’s mistakes

reactions. Listen to their needs and concerns and

and embarrassments in order to help them

stay close to help them to feel calm. Link with

recover quickly.

basic needs (i.e. broken ankle, ER department)

The good news is, that despite society’s stereotypes, most children are actually quite resilient and bounce back easily from adversity.

However, for a small percentage, these physical, social and intellectual ‘disasters’ can leave our young people with negative beliefs about their

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and help them connect to information, resources or support (physio, healing time frame) to build their confidence for the future. It is important to ensure they don’t withdraw from the club or activity or their friends after a failure of any kind since isolation is a risk factor.

Our children are involved in all sorts of activities that provide them with social, physical, emotional and intellectual challenges which build them up and through which they make social connections, enjoy play and discover more about their bodies and abilities. Most children respond to accidents, injuries, social embarrassments and other unfortunate experiences as water off a ducks back, but

abilities and self-image. A child’s level of resilience

There will always be a small but substantial

occasionally they may need just a little bit of

can vary though so they may respond differently

proportion of children affected by performance

psychological first aid so that it doesn’t damage

to failure according to the situation. For example, a

mistakes, especially when on a big stage

their future enjoyment or self esteem.

child may bounce back easily from mishaps on the

or important game, and even with caring,

sports field but struggle emotionally when they

supportive parents these children may continue

under-perform in school tests. So if your child

to languish for a prolonged period of time after

Robert Gronbeck is a sports psychology

is struggling to bounce back from a perceived

the event. If your child seems to be finding it

coach at Masterful Performances.

failure, what can you do to help them get over it?

difficult to recover from an event like this, it may www.pakmag.com.au

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By Julie Chin

I wonder what my grandparents used to

It’s not rocket science and I’m particularly

say about the education system when I

surprised that this idea hasn’t already

was in primary school? Could they see

occurred to Education Minister Christopher

a decline or a difference in comparison

Pyne who has two dyslexic children of his

to their own education decades before?

own.

Australia’s OECD rankings are in decline and I can think of many reasons why this is the case, but the reason I see every day is that in a typical classroom, we expect all children to learn the same content at the same time and at the same rate. I believe that our OECD rankings will continue to slide if the State and Federal governments keep ignoring the fact that a one-size-fits all education doesn’t actually ‘fit all’.

Research tells us that these children learn best in a multi-sensory way so let’s do what we used to do and bring out all those concrete materials and…teach!

Let’s teach all the basics and keep revising

difference. Whether or not these children

important. The sad thing is that all children

have an official diagnosis, they still exist

would learn better this way, not just those

in every classroom. Teachers know who

with a learning difference.

The kids that can’t read or comprehend texts at their grade level. The kids that never finish their work on time. The kids that are naughty – because being naughty and being sent out of the room is better than having to do the work. The kids that complain of being sick and need to go to the sick bay. They are the kids that are quiet and unassuming who always have ‘blank’ looks on their faces because they don’t know what’s going on. The kids that try their best but keep getting that slap across the face on each report card in the form of D’s and E’s.

Like it or not these are the kids with dyslexia, dyscalculia, central auditory processing disorder, dysgraphia, Irlen syndrome or some other condition that means they learn differently from a neuro-

I can hear the tech heads yelling now about preparing these kids for a technological future but in my experience, future generations are still going to need the basics in reading, writing and mathematics as a foundation to build upon. To those who say that writing will become obsolete, I suggest they do some research on handwriting and how forming letters and symbols with pen and paper make better connections in the brain than simply pushing a button with a ‘t’ on it. Sure, technology has its place but technology’s place is getting bigger and bigger in primary schools at the expense of a solid grounding in the good old fashioned tools that I grew up on.

Let’s take learning difficulties out of the ‘too hard basket’ and ask the true experts – teachers – to share their ideas on what changes need to be made in the classroom to make education equal for all.

typical student.

It’s no secret. This ever-growing group of students is doing poorly and until we start to meet the needs of this group their achievement levels are going to affect our

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applications and going back to basics?

that repetition, repetition, repetition is

kids that keep counting on their fingers.

As an educator and grandparent Julie Chin is in a unique position to compare her own education with today’s students and sees many reasons for the decline in standards.

out the interactive whiteboards and ipad

them because again, research tells us

get their ideas down on the paper. The

Report Card

teacher ratios or how about throwing

and more children present with a learning

instructions repeated. The kids that can’t

Education

classrooms perhaps, with lower student

For whatever reason, we are seeing more

they are. They are the kids that need

Education

So where do we start? Specialised

Julie Chin is an Education Consultant and co-owner of Sunbird Education Centre. For more info call 4951 1190.

mean average in the OECD world rankings. www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

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Health pak

HEART Fitness

news

Eye's on Stye's Stye’s are sore red lumps that occur near the edge of an eyelid. It is caused by an infection in the eyelash follicle, usually caused by the staphylococcus bacterium.

Most styes get better within a few days even if no treatment is given. Hot ‘compresses’ (eg. cotton balls soaked in hot water) placed on the eye for several minutes can help relieve pain and possibly help get rid of the infection. Do this several times a day with a fresh compress each time and make sure you wash your hands after each one.

If the stye doesn’t get better by itself within a few days see your GP. In some severe cases antibiotic ointment or professional lancing and drainage may

There have been increasing concerns for some time that today’s children are not getting enough exercise and a new study, led by researchers at the University of South Australia, recently released it’s findings after analysing

be needed. Don’t rub a stye or try to squeeze the pus out as you may spread the infection.

Asthma Product

the fitness levels of millions of children around the world.

NEW

product The studies measured how far children

and possibly North America but fitness

could run in 5 to 15 minutes and how

continues to fall in China. Japan never had

quickly they ran a certain distance, ranging

much falloff - fitness has remained fairly

from half a mile to 2 miles (3.2 kilometres).

consistent there. About 20 million of the

The researcher’s concluded that today's

25 million children in the studies were

kids are about 15 per cent less fit than their

from Asia.

parents – they can run less far and less fast than their parents did as children.

a role, since it makes it harder to run or

A new digital device has just been launched that

According to lead researcher Dr Tomkinson,

do any aerobic exercise. Too much time

will provide peace of mind for parents of children

"The changes are very similar for boys and

watching television and playing video

with asthma. Called AirSonea, it monitors and

girls and also for various ages," but differed

games and unsafe neighbourhoods with

measures a child’s wheeze and then sends an sms

by geographic region.

not enough options for outdoor play also

message to mum or dad’s smartphone. There’s an

may play a role, they said.

app that goes with the device to remind kids when

The decline in fitness seems to be levelling off in Europe, Australia and New Zealand,

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The researchers said obesity likely plays

to take their medications. To find out more go to www.airsonea.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

15

Nutrition pak

Review Food

Beetroot

Food

review

Healthy Fast Food?

by Rebecca McKenna

In the 1990’s there were two words that were previously never heard in the same sentence… ‘healthy’ and ‘fast food’. Now, it’s all the rage!

Most fast food is loaded with calories, saturated fats, sugar and salt. When children eat too many of these foods it can lead to a decrease in energy levels, an increase in weight and an increased risk of developing diabetes and heart disease later in life.

So, how do you spot the healthy choices when Friday night swings around and the kids are begging for some takeaway? A good recipe for making a good choice is a dash of nutrition education mixed with a generous serve of common sense. Now you are probably thinking “I don’t have time to stand around and ponder menus with three hungry kids in tow”! So let’s keep this nice and simple.

Remember the letters V.C.P. When choosing a takeaway meal.

V is for vegetables. Check whether the meal has vegetables or salad (and no, chips are not vegetables!). Vegetables help provide kiddies with nutrients, fibre and a feeling of fullness.

C is for cooking methods. It is best to choose foods that are baked, steamed, grilled or cooked in the microwave. Little bodies have to work really hard to get rid of all the junk that comes along with frying foods which slows down their energy and health.

P is for portion size. If you want to give the kids a treat of takeaway food – go ahead! Just remember what an appropriate serving size for a child is so avoid upsizes!

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Rebecca is an Accredited Practising Dietitian at Health Management. You can connect with Health Management and ask questions on Facebook.

. many milks out there to choose from READER QUESTION: There are so What is the best choice for children?

It is a seems to be expanding each week!

The milk section of the supermarket low ced/ redu fat, full ; e main types of milk hard area to navigate. There are thre ce. choi best s of age, full fat milk is the fat or skim. For children under two year a to it is fine for them to change over Once your child is over the age of two t for often higher in calcium, which is grea reduced/low fat milk. These are also high is milk ured flavo ly drink plain milk growing bones. Children should main as a treat. in sugar so it should only be drunk

Q&A

nutritionadvice

Beetroot is my favourite vegetable. So vibrant and exciting! It is a natural source of folate, manganese nitrate and betaine (currently being studied because it may reduce heart disease risk). Beetroot can be used boiled, roasted or grilled, and it can be served hot or cold. It can be used to make any salad look exciting and tastes great with some other foods – try it with a small amount of goats cheese. You will not regret it!

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pakmag Team

pakmag TEAM Favourite Potato Puffs

By Robyn Christensen (PakMag Accounts) Ingredients

pakmag

• 3 cups of mashed potatoes

TEAM

• 2 eggs

recipe

• 1/3 cup sour cream (optional extra for serving) • 1 heaped cup shredded cheddar cheese • 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese • 2 tbsp chopped chives or parsley • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Robyn's Fav “These Potato Puffs are a family favourite. They are easy to make and are delicious even for the fussiest of eaters.”

Method Preheat oven to 200oC. Lightly grease a non stick muffin pan. In a medium mixing bowl whisk the eggs, then mix in the sour cream. Stir in both cheeses and the chives. Add mashed potatoes and mix well. Spoon them into the muffin pan filling the cups to slightly below the top. Bake 25-35 minutes until they pull away from the sides of the pan and are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan. Serve with sour cream if desired.

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1

Waitangi Day

2014 Festival

8 February

Quarry Hill Union Grounds

2

K Courtneyalon'Sg PIC to a Sports Expo

& Sign-on Day

MECC The region’s largest free showcase of sport and recreation

Performances, live music by local bands, kids workshops

clubs takes place this month giving locals the opportunity

and an Australian vs New Zealand Test match by local

to try their hand at some of the 50 different activities on

players. There will also be traditional food. Cost: Gold coin

display. Rugby League legend Shane Webcke will also be

donation on entry. For more details contact Roxanne Starret

there and there will be lots of prizes up for grabs.

on 0412 471 535.

5 5

Paxtons

night markets

7 February (from 5pm) River Street, City Centre

This wonderful FREE market showcases local, unique, handmade, crafted, home grown, baked and vintage treasures!

There’s live entertainment and a kids activity zone as well as delicious food to make it a delicious evening out. Note: There is no eftpos or ATM so take cash. Call 0401 834 829 for more

eventGUIDE

9 February (10am-2pm)

Lots of FREE entertainment for all ages including Kapa Haka

Things to do in MKY

“Take the kids Drive-In movie at the PCYC on 1 February at 6.30pm.”

3

DRIVE IN MOVIE

Entertainment

February 2013 DATE 1/02/14

pink = family

VENUE St. Francis Xavier School Hall

green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME ASD Healthy Life - Autism, Asthma & Developmental Delays

TIME 12.30pm

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO 0417 550 411

COST Free

1/02/14

Bunnings

Adult workshop: Quick Refresh Repair & Maintenance

check for times in-store

Free

1/02/14

Bunnings

Kids Workshop: Chinese New Year

check for times in-store

Free $25

1/02/14

PCYC

Drive-In Movie Night

6.30pm

4942 3296

2/02/14

MECC

Mackay's Premier 28th Annual Bridal Expo

10.00am

4953 4887

Gold Coin

2/02/14

Queens Park

Waitangi Day

2.00pm

1300 622 529

Free

2/02/14

Bunnings

Adult workshop: Quick Refresh Repair & Maintenance

check for times in-store

Free

2/02/14

Bunnings

Kids Workshop: Craft

check for times in-store

Free

3/02/14

Mackay Women's Centre

Mums and Bubs Meet and Greet

10.30am

3/02/14

Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

$2

3/02/14

Mirani Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

3/02/14

Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

11.00am

4961 9387

Free

4/02/14

Mirani Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

4/02/14

Sarina Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9297

Free

1 February (6.30pm)

4/02/14

Walkerston Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4959 2545

Free

PCYC Mackay

4/02/14

Tropical Sun Lawn

Falung Gong Meditiation and Relaxation

9.00am

4942 9538

Free

The PCYC will be screening Despicable Me 2. Cost: $25 per car. Call 4942 3296 for more details.

4

Flight Centre

5/02/14

Pat Wright Swim School

Mums and Bubs Swimming Lesson 3-9 Months

10.30am

4953 1744

$5

5/02/14

Pat Wright Swim School

Mums and Bubs Swimming Lesson 9+ Months

11.00am

4953 1744

$5

5/02/14

Sarina Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.00am

4961 9297

Free

5/02/14

Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9300

Free

6/02/14

Mackay City Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9387

Free

6/02/14

MECC Auditorium

The Rat pack - Swing with the Kings

7.30pm

4961 9764

$65

www.birch.com.au

$6

10.30am

www.birch.com.au

Cost

0401 834 829

Free

4961 9300

Free

www.birch.com.au

$6

7/02/14

Birch Carroll & Coyle

Kids Club: Cloudy with Chance of Meatballs

7/02/14

Birch Carroll & Coyle

Bring Your Baby: The Book Thief

7/02/14

Paxton's Warehouse

Paxtons Night Markets

5.00pm

7/02/14

Memorial Pool

Water Aerobics - Bub friendly

10.15am

7/02/14

Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

8/02/14

Birch Carroll & Coyle

Kids Club: Cloudy with Chance of Meatballs

$5

Travel Expo

9 March

MECC Plenary Halls Thinking about your next family holiday? Go along to the Travel Expo for some free inspiration from experienced travel consultants. If you book your holiday on the day you’ll go into the draw to win some fantastic prizes.

information.

20

www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

21

JOHNNO'S PICK “Check out the Sports and Sign-On Day at MECC on 9 February”

February 2013 DATE 8/02/14

VENUE Quarry Hill Union Grounds

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Waitangi Day

TIME 1.00pm

FOR MORE INFO 0412 471 535

8/02/14

Bunnings

Adult workshop: Tiling & Plastering

check for times in-store

Free

8/02/14

Bunnings

Kids Workshop: Fun mosaics

check for times in-store

Free Free

9/02/14

MECC

Sports Expo and Sign on Day

10.00am

1300 622 529

9/02/14

Mt Pleasant undercover carpark

Troppo Treasure market

7.30am

0447 876 778

Gold Coin

9/02/14

Bunnings

Adult workshop: Tiling & Plastering

check for times in-store

Free

9/02/14

Bunnings

10/02/14 Blue Water Lagoon

Kids Workshop: Fun with Paint Mums and Bubs Playdate

check for times in-store 9.30am

Free Free

10/02/14 Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

10/02/14 Mirani Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

10/02/14 Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

11.00am

4961 9387

Free

10/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Bring Your Baby: The Book Thief

10.30am

www.birch.com.au

Cost

11/02/14 Caneland Central (near Esquires)

Mummy Central

9.00am

www.canelandcentral.com.au Free

11/02/14 Mirani Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

11/02/14 Sarina Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9297

Free

11/02/14 Walkerston Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4959 2545

Free

11/02/14 Tropical Sun Lawn

Falung Gong Meditiation and Relaxation

9.00am

4942 9538

Free

12/02/14 Pat Wright Swim School

Mums and Bubs Swimming Lesson 3-9 Months

10.30am

4953 1744

$5

12/02/14 Pat Wright Swim School

Mums and Bubs Swimming Lesson 9+ Months

11.00am

4953 1744

$5

12/02/14 Sarina Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.00am

4961 9297

Free

12/02/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9300

Free

12/02/14 MECC Auditorium

The Hollies

8.00pm

4961 9764

$99

12/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Bring Your Baby: The Book Thief

12.30pm

www.birch.com.au

Cost

13/02/14 Mackay City Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9387

Free

14/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Bring Your Baby: Mandela Long Walk to Freedom

10.30am

www.birch.com.au

Cost

4944 0000

14/02/14 Harrup Park Country Club

Valentines Day Single Party

7.00pm

14/02/14 Memorial Pool

Water Aerobics - Bub friendly

10.15am

14/02/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

Kids MINI MAG

COST Gold Coin

$15 $5

4961 9300

Free

Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. All Rights Reserved.

February FUN Activities Colour in and you could WIN a Peppa pig prize!

22

www.pakmag.com.au

WIN

Fun activities & prizes to win

Crackles "JOKES" www.pakmag.com.au

23

page 26 For a great laugh go to

colour IN & Win!

Colour In & you could WIN a Create and Play with Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set Top of Form $29.99 RRP This fun filled set includes 2 pots of dough, 2 Peppa Pig character moulds, 2 cutting tools and dough shooter.

Available now at all ABC stores and online at shop.abc.net.au

Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. All Rights Reserved.

To enter colour-it-in & mail to:

Name:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in February 2014

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 1922, Mackay QLD 4740 & you could WIN a Create and Play with Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set Top of Form $29.99 RRP (Competition Closes 18/02/14) www.pakmag.com.au 24

Age:

Address: Phone:

Email: Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. All Rights Reserved.

www.pakmag.com.au

25

[1] So you and your family have

[4] Do you like trying new things? Do

come out to Australia. What are

you ever get scared? It's fun to try new

you looking forward to doing when

things! Sometimes I get a bit scared

you're here?

but it's alright because Daddy Pig and

My friend Kylie Kangaroo lives in

Mummy Pig and George are with me!

Australia, I'm excited to see her, and

Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. All Rights Reserved.

Crackles "JOKES" Q: What did the boy octopus say to the girl octopus?

A. Can I hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand?

Q. Do skunks celebrate Valentine's Day? A. Sure, they're very scent-imental!

WIN!

26

puddles down-under? It doesn't rain

[2] What do you like best about

very much here like it does at home, so

travelling? It's fun to see new places

there aren't that many muddy puddles.

and meet new people! I like sending postcards to Granny and Grandpa Pig and Goldie the fish too!

pink = family

[5] Have you come across any muddle

make lots of new friends!

Exclusive Interview

eventGUIDE DATE

VENUE

14/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

15/02/14 Moranbah Community Centre

Waitangi Day Celebrations

to say to Australia's boys and girls?

15/02/14 Bunnings

Adult workshop: Storage Solutions DIY

[3] Does your brother George go

And if you do see any muddy puddles

everywhere with you? Yes, and Mr

that you want to jump up and down in,

Dinosaur goes everywhere with him.

remember you must wear your boots!

Q: What do farmers give their wives on Valentine's Day? A. Hogs and Kisses!

Q: What did the chocolate syrup say to the ice cream?

TIME

Kids Club: Walking with Dinosaurs

[6] Do you have anything you'd like Um...hello! I hope you like my show!

green = kids

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO www.birch.com.au

2.00pm

COST $6

0432 694 758

$40

check for times in-store

Free

15/02/14 Bunnings

Kids Workshop: Wall Art

check for times in-store

Free

15/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Kids Club: Walking with Dinosaurs

www.birch.com.au

$6

16/02/14 Mackay Botanic Gardens

Sunday in the Park

16/02/14 Bunnings

Adult workshop: Storage Solutions DIY

16/02/14 Bunnings

Kids Workshop: Decorating

17/02/14 Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

2.00pm

9.30am

4952 7300

Free

check for times in-store

Free

check for times in-store

Free

4961 9300

Free

17/02/14 Mirani Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

17/02/14 Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

11.00am

4961 9387

Free

17/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Bring Your Baby: Mandela Long Walk to Freedom

10.30am

www.birch.com.au

Cost

18/02/14 Mirani Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

18/02/14 Sarina Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9297

Free

18/02/14 Walkerston Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4959 2545

Free

18/02/14 Tropical Sun Lawn

Falung Gong Meditiation and Relaxation

9.00am

4942 9538

Free

19/02/14 MECC

The Australian Bee Gees show

7.30pm

4961 9777

$55

19/02/14 Pat Wright Swim School

Mums and Bubs Swimming Lesson 3-9 Months

10.30am

4953 1744

$5

19/02/14 Pat Wright Swim School

Mums and Bubs Swimming Lesson 9+ Months

11.00am

4953 1744

$5

19/02/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9300

Free

19/02/14 Sarina Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9297

Free

19/02/14 Civic Precinct Lawns

Outdoor Movie - George Orwell's Big Brother

6.00pm

4961 9764

Free

19/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Bring Your Baby: Mandela Long Walk to Freedom

12.30pm

www.birch.com.au

Cost

4961 9387

Free

20/02/14 Mackay City Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

20/02/14 PCYC

PCYC Playdate

9.00am

21/02/14 Memorial Pool

Water Aerobics - Bub friendly

10.15am

21/02/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

21/02/14 MECC Auditorium

Jackie Love - A Magical Musical Journey with LOVE

11.00am

4961 9764

$15

$7 $5

A. "I'm sweet on you!"

Q: What kind of flowers do you never give on Valentine's Day? A. Cauliflowers!

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

27

eventGUIDE February 2013 DATE

VENUE

21/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

pink = family

green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Bring Your Baby: Endless Love

TIME 10.30am

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO www.birch.com.au

COST Cost

21/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Kids Club: Freebirds

www.birch.com.au

$6

22/02/14 Bunnings

Adult workshop: Basic DIY

check for times in-store

Free

22/02/14 Bunnings

Kids Workshop: Art Class

check for times in-store

Free

22/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Kids Club: Freebirds

www.birch.com.au

$6

23/02/14 Bunnings

Adult workshop: Basic DIY

check for times in-store

Free

23/02/14 Bunnings

Kids Workshop: Animal Craft

check for times in-store

Free

4961 9300

Free

24/02/14 Blacks Beach Tavern

Mums and Bubs Meet and Greet Luncheon

11.00am

24/02/14 Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

$12

24/02/14 Mirani Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

24/02/14 Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

11.00am

4961 9387

Free

24/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Bring Your Baby: Endless Love

10.30am

www.birch.com.au

Cost

25/02/14 Mirani Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

25/02/14 Sarina Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9297

Free

25/02/14 Walkerston Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4959 2545

Free

26/02/14 Pat Wright Swim School

Mums and Bubs Swimming Lesson 3-9 Months

10:30am

4953 1744

$5

26/02/14 Pat Wright Swim School

Mums and Bubs Swimming Lesson 9+ Months

11.00am

4953 1744

$5

26/02/14 Sarina Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.00am

4961 9297

Free

26/02/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9300

Free

26/02/14 Birch Carroll & Coyle

Bring Your Baby: Endless Love

12.30pm

www.birch.com.au

Cost

27/02/14 Mackay City Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9387

Free

4961 9300

Free

28/02/14 Memorial Pool

Water Aerobics - Bub friendly

10.15am

28/02/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

$5

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

The Good Guys maCkay

supporting your local community OPEN monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm saturday 9am-4pm & sunday 9am-3pm 28

www.thegoodguys.com.au/mackay www.pakmag.com.au

JohN donnelly Pay less Pay cash

PHONE 4963 1500 North PoiNt retail WiNdmill CrossiNg www.pakmag.com.au

29

By Jill Green

SIDS

&Kids

Safe Sleeping Babies spend a lot of their time sleeping. But some sleeping arrangements are not safe and can increase the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI), which includes sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and fatal sleeping accidents.

Fortunately, researchers have identified certain

that all baby sitters are instructed to sleep your

loose bedding or fabric, lambswool, bumpers

risk factors that, when removed, create a safe

baby on their back too since babies who are

and soft toys from the cot.

sleeping environment for babies. There are six

used to sleeping on their back and are placed to

ways to reduce the risk of SUDI:

sleep on their tummy or side are at an increased

[1] Sleep baby on the back from birth, not on the tummy or side [2] Sleep baby with head and face uncovered [3] Keep baby smoke free before birth and after [4] Provide a safe sleeping environment night and day

30

www.pakmag.com.au

risk of SIDS.

Room sharing with a baby has been shown to reduce the risk of SUDI. SIDS and Kids recommends sleeping baby in their own sleeping

Your baby’s face and head also needs to stay

place in the same room as an adult caregiver for

uncovered during sleep as this reduces the risk of

the first six to 12 months.

SUDI. Research shows that soft bedding or loose bedding may cover the baby’s face and lead to airway obstruction, carbon dioxide re-breathing or overheating. A good way to ensure your baby’s face and head stay uncovered is to put their feet

[5] Sleep baby in their own safe sleeping place in

at the bottom of the cot so they can’t slip down

the same room as an adult caregiver for the first

under the bedding. You might decide not to

six to twelve months

use blankets at all and instead use a safe baby

[6] Breastfeed – The safest position to sleep

sleeping bag – one with fitted neck, arm holes

your baby is on their back for every sleep. This

and no hood.

reduces the risk of SIDS and fatal sleeping

To provide a safe sleeping environment use a

accidents. The chance of babies dying suddenly

safe cot (it should meet current Australian New

and unexpectedly is greater if they sleep on their

Zealand Standard AS2172), a safe mattress – firm,

tummies or sides so always place your baby on

clean, flat, right size for cot, and safe bedding.

their back to sleep, from birth, on a firm, flat (not

Soft surfaces and bulky bedding increase the risk

tilted or elevated) surface. It is also important

of sudden infant death. Remove pillows, doonas,

Breastfeeding has also been shown to reduce infant illness and death worldwide. The evidence that breastfeeding has a protective effect against SUDI has been gathering over many years and recent studies show that there is now strong evidence that breastfeeding reduces the risk of sudden and unexpected infant death.

Jill Green is the National Co-ordinator of Health Promotion and Bereavement Support at SIDS and Kids Australia. For more information on infant safe sleeping, visit www.sidsandkids.org/safe-sleeping

www.pakmag.com.au

31

Baby

Baby books

WATER Safety

review

February 2013

NEW Book

WIN with Dreambaby®

ADOPTION Changes Many would-be parents were thrilled to hear the government recently announce that they intended making it easier for Australians to adopt children from overseas orphanages.

The Prime Minister has ordered the

the lowest adoption rates in the world.

Department of the Prime Minister and

We also have a very low rate of children

Cabinet to establish an interdepartmental

in foster care being adopted. There are

committee on overseas adoption.

currently over 20,000 children in out-of-

Speaking at a press conference he said,

home/foster care in Australia but only 100

"The committee will consult extensively

were adopted out of care last year despite

and report to me in March 2014 including

the fact that it has been proven to provide

on the immediate steps that could be

better outcomes for the children.

taken to make inter-country adoption easier and faster for Australian couples."

Given that the state and federal governments failed to implement the

Campaigners have criticised Australia’s

recommendations from Coalition MP

"anti-adoption culture" with bureaucratic

Bronwyn Bishop’s review in 2005, it

hurdles and invasive processes being

remains to be seen whether our adoption

blamed for the fact that we have one of

laws will actually change.

Gift

idea

Toddler water safety has been back in the headlines after several drownings occurred this summer.

With natural fibres and wood back on trend for home interiors, Dreambaby® has launched a new range of wooden-inspired gates that are in keeping with this trend and offer parents a stylish safety option for their homes. The Dreambaby® Savannah Gate is a mix of new and old, with a metal frame and timber door construction. This gate is pressure mounted with features that include: • • • • • • •

Extendable to 167.5cm (66”) Easy close system Opening direction can be restricted Swings opens in both directions One-handed opening 2 step handle – push and lift Product code F2009. RRP $149.00

The Royal Life Saving Society’s 2013 Drowning Report also showed an increase in drowning deaths in toddlers, a reversal of the consistent downward trend in previous years.

Babies can drown in as little as 5cm (two inches) of water and Royal Life Saving says a

WIN

Dreambaby® are giving you the chance to WIN a Savannah Gate! To enter go to www.pakmag.com.au and tell us what Dreambaby® are experts in?

Safety Tips: [1] Never leave young children alone in the

bath tub.

[2] Empty the bath as soon as you’ve taken

your child out.

lack of adult supervision is still the number

[3] Make sure your pool or ponds are securely

one issue in child drowning. Falls into water

accounted for 81 per cent of all drowning deaths in the under five age group.

Royal Life Saving says many of the drowning incidents occur when adults are distracted attending to other children, watching TV, performing daily chores or mistakenly think

The Mum Who Roared

by Christie Nicholas

fenced off.

[4] Always watch toddlers when they're

This is a fantastic A-Z guide on how to love your

mind, body and attitude after having a baby. For

playing in or with water.

[5] Secure your garden so your children can’t

get into neighbouring gardens where

there may be hazards.

mums who feel overwhelmed, have lost their identity, want their sex life back, want to feel more in control and happier, then this is the book for you. RRP $29.99

someone else is supervising the child.

Outdoor movie screens & event hire

experience watching movies under the stars. available for hire for fundraisers, sporting events, concerts, weddings, anniversaries, backyard parties and more. You provide the location, audience & power, we provide the rest.

Book a Big screen

for your next event

34 Alan St • Phone 0428 198 212 • Web www.starlightscreenings.com.au

32

www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

33

Travel February 2013

guide

Heaven forKids

Travel

ideas

Planning a trip to the Gold Coast this year? Paradise Resort is the gold standard in family accommodation heaven for kids and paradise for parents The Gold Coast is a mecca for action-packed family holidays but if you’re staying at the fantastic Paradise Resort Gold Coast, you may not need to venture outside at all since there’s plenty to entertain the kids right inside the resort. Kids aren’t just welcome here – the whole place has been designed to be a heaven for kids, so much so that it’s also paradise for parents!

When you arrive it won’t take long for the kids to find where the action is. The central area of the resort features a large lagoon pool and two enormous aqua play attractions - a giant bucket tipping water in an enormous splash and an attraction that is three stories high complete with slides and water cannons. As if the Waterpark wasn’t enough to entertain the kids for hours on end – you can also add ice-skating to your itinerary. ‘Planet Chill’ is a permanent ice-skating rink that’s located at the resort all year round.

The family friendly activities don’t stop there. Paradise Resort also has a fully supervised kids club called Zone 4 Kids Club, which allows parents to nip off for kid-free time. Every accommodation package has one free session per day per child. Open year round, Zone 4 Kids Club has age appropriate activities for babies and toddlers through to 12 year olds. It includes a mini-fun park featuring themed play spaces such as Astro’s Space Station with pedal powered space buggies, Underwater World with submarines and slides and Dusty’s Safari where kids can explore the jungles of Asia.

If you’ve still got some energy to burn off after all that, the resort also offers an extensive daily entertainment program

S pecial OFFER

34

www.pakmag.com.au

Right now Paradise Resort has an offer which includes a FREE Family r Pass to Dreamworld & WhiteWate nt World, $100 Resort Credit + discou s. It vouchers with over $180 in saving y is only available for a limited time onl u so visit www.paradiseresort.com.a or phone 1800 074 111 to book.

with something different on every day for kids and families.

Activities include cupcake decorating, t-shirt design, plaster art, rock climbing, pool noodle races, poolside movies, a bingo night, family trivia and a range of live entertainment.

So what can parents do with all their child-free time? You can either pop outside the resort unhindered by ankle biters or, if you want to relax, there is an exclusive Zone 4 Adults outdoor spa area. This features a large heated spa and comfy lounge chairs to soak up some sunshine in peace and quiet.

There is nowhere more family friendly than Paradise Resort Gold Coast and if it’s possible for kids to have too much fun, this place is where it’s going to happen! www.pakmag.com.au

35

By Rachel Holliday

KIDS

Sports

MackayCutters Whether your child plays rugby league for fun or has an ambition to play for Australia, Mackay Junior NRL has nine action-packed teams ready to join. So sign up and potentially springboard your child into professional sports stardom.

All athletes have to start somewhere and Rugby

playing the whole game without just practicing

games, giving your child the opportunity to

League star Daly Cherry Evans is no exception.

skills. They have the opportunity to develop skills

progress athletically as well as meet other young

A true up and-coming sports hero, he is adored

such as try scoring, evasion, passing and kicking

athletes from around Australia.

by fans for his sheer effort and undeniable talent

in a wholesome and supportive environment,

every time he takes to the field. A representative

whilst improving confidence, co-ordination and

for the Manly Sea Eagles, Queensland Maroons

overall fitness.

and the Australian Kangaroos, he owes a lot to the Mackay Junior NRL, the starting block for his athletic career.

the Cutters, which could very well be your child!

other young boys with big NRL dreams have

athletic fitness and friendly competitiveness.

of high ranking professional NRL players it has produced.�

From their very first day, children who join the junior league have an opportunity to begin their athletic career. The sport focuses on a whole-ofgame program so its newest members can enjoy www.pakmag.com.au

knowledge and skills to the next generation of

NRL one of the most popular sports around. the sport encourages positive sportsmanship,

strengths of Mackay Rugby League is the amount

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through Junior NRL. They aim to pass on their

success that has stemmed from Mackay; many

Ottaway says that, “A good measure of the

of whom first found their passion for the sport

staggering 3,000 young players, making Junior As well as a great opportunity to make friends,

Chairman of Mackay Rugby League Glenn

the regular visits from the Mackay Cutters, many

The nine Mackay junior teams make up a

It seems that Evans is not the only national

progressed to stardom through the program.

One stand out feature of the Junior NRL teams is

All junior teams have their own training

So if your child has dreams of athletic success or just enjoys throwing a ball around with friends, there are plenty of opportunities to get them involved with Mackay Junior NRL.

facilities and all children ages six to sixteen can get involved. Under 12 teams are noncompetitive and focus on skills and positive sportsmanship. The Under 13 teams build on this

Mackay Junior Rugby League is now

and play against each other in regular friendly

registering players aged 6-16 for 2014. To

competitions.

find out which of the nine teams are nearest

The overall winner of the Mackay team league

to you visit www.playrugbyleague.com

then progresses into the North Queensland www.pakmag.com.au

37

By Rachel Holliday

KIDS

Sports

FantasticGymnastics BIZDirectory ads from ONLY $80/MONTH!

directory

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You could advertise here for as little as $110/month

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Looking for a way to channel your child’s energy whilst building their confidence? Whether they’ve spent the summer holidays clinging to monkey bars or doing handstands in the backyard, Mackay Gymnastics provides the perfect stepping stone to put these hobbies to great use.

Described as the ‘oldest sport in the world’ (it

rather than the acrobatic; acrobatic gymnastics

your child can get really stuck into the sport in

was the original platform for the Olympic Games

is a group gymnastics discipline and of course,

the recreational gymnastics classes.

in ancient Greece), gymnastics can really help

there’s trampolining. Mackay Gymnastics mainly

children develop physical strength, agility and

focus on artistic gymnastics but they also provide

coordination. And with classes starting from age

trampolining and rhythmic gymnastics classes.

two, it’s a great way for energetic young kids to

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www.pakmag.com.au

Call 4053 3331 for more information

importance of positive sportsmanship and ensures that all children wishing to take the sport

Given that the exercises involved develop

to a competitive level have the chance to do

strong core muscles and improved balance,

so. Regular competitions throughout both the

Luckily in Mackay we have first class facilities with

gymnastics can provide a solid foundation for

region and state have shown the strengths of the

Mackay Gymnastics recently moving into a brand

any other sport later on, whether your child has

club (Vicki Baptie, the Director of Coaching, was

new purpose built premises. Founded in 2004,

an interest in football or dance. The sport teaches

named the Queensland Women’s Gymnastics

after the merging of two existing gymnastic

children how to control their body in a variety of

Coach of the year in 2013). Younger children

clubs, they have continued to grow in both

situations so whether upside down or doing the

who don’t wish to travel away from home

facilities and the variety of classes offered.

splits, children learn the importance of muscle

have the opportunity to compete in in-house

control.

competitions at the end of the year.

burn up some energy.

There are many different types of gymnastics,

Call 4053 3331 for more information

The club prides itself on teaching children the

each one differing in technique as well as the

The focus of the classes vary by age. Kindy

types of apparatus used. Artistic gymnastics

classes for kids aged two-four help improve body

involves short routines on different equipment

awareness and basic motor skills and then when

For more information visit:

and is a popular spectator sport; rhythmic

they turn four, they can build on this through

www.mackaygymnastics.org.au

gymnastics has a greater emphasis on aesthetic

the gym skills classes. From about the age of five www.pakmag.com.au

39

Pets fav

Fav pet shot of the month wins a mystery prize to the value of $30!

February entries

Kids

Artwork

By Amanda Cranston

Wondering what to do with all those paintings your kids make for you? Here’s 10 ways to put them on display!

Prize winner

Ernie loved by Dale

Penny loved by Caleb

Wooly Willy Wally

Fudge loved by Kayla

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

Once kindy begins most parents find themselves inundated with paintings and collage creations of all kinds. No matter what they have made, kids love to see their artwork on display. Even as kids get older they get a thrill out of seeing their paintings, sketches and masterpieces on show so here are a few different ways to put them to good use.

[1] Frame it

[4] Scrapbook it

[8] Make party bon-bons

Frames come in all sizes and colours and you can get some simple ones for minimal cost these days so why not mount and frame your child’s artwork and hang them around the house. It shows your child how proud you are of them and looks more stylish.

A memory scrapbook is a wonderful way of documenting your child’s life incorporating photos, funny things they say and do, award certificates and lots of your kid’s artwork.

Use paintings to make fun bon-bons for a special party or event. Fill the bon-bons with lollies, marbles or a little trinket and tie the ends with pretty ribbon. Add little name tags to each bon-bon for the final touch.

[2] Exhibit it

Use your child’s paintings as gift wrapping for birthdays and Christmas presents, adding string or ribbons for extra embellishments.

If you find you have acquired a rather large collection of your child’s artwork then why not put on an art exhibition at home for family and close friends. Mount and frame a range of your child’s favourite pieces, send out invites and then provide morning or afternoon tea.

[3] Make Bookmarks Cut your child’s artwork into strips and laminate them, turning their artwork into beautiful bookmarks the whole family can use. You can also thread ribbon through the end to make them fancier so you can give them as gifts to grandparents.

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[5] Make gift wrapping

[6] Make placemats Artwork on A4 size paper can be laminated to make placemats and the more colourful the better. Get your kids to design paintings for each table setting, cut and paste pictures or sketch a portrait of each family member and laminate them, turning them into placemats.

[7] Make gift cards Your kid’s artwork can be made into beautiful handmade gift cards of all sizes, then use letter stamps to add a personal message to the card.

[9] Cover books with artwork Covering school books, journals or other special books in artwork is a great way to personalise your child’s books. First cover the book with the painting, add a name label and then cover in clear contact.

[10] Photograph it For all those collage creations your kids bring home made out of cereal boxes, plastic bottle lids and toilet rolls, keep their artwork on display at home for a few weeks and then photograph it before you bin it. Explain you can’t keep everything and then make up a journal to paste photos of all the lovely collage things they have created. www.pakmag.com.au

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out&about

submit your photos

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

Mikayla, Elijah & Rachel at Kidz Life

Best dressed kids

tre Dress up time at Kidz Life Play Cen

Play Centre

Ben Santa Claus

Marc, Sharon, Isaac & Daniel at Kidz Life

Patrick & Ange at Kidz Life Play Cen tre

Fun at Kidz Life Play Centre

Play Centre

Elise & Mark

Out & About photos thanks to Jodie Grosskreutz > For info call 0412 873 557

Tracy & Trinity at Kidz Life Play Centre

Shontel, May-li & Ben

Sarah at Kidz Life Play Centre

Out & About photos thanks to Jodie Grosskreutz > For info call 0412 873 557

Good Guys Wheel Winner

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Kidz Life Play Centre Concert

Jacob, Zachary & Katie

Tristan & Gabrielle www.pakmag.com.au

43

Home edition

Storage

FEB 2013

TIP Lots of storage in a

Design Tips

family home helps keep clutter to a minimum

Storage Tips Minimise Clutter

Stylish

S torag e

Story thanks to BOLD Interiors Good storage solutions are important

Whether you need built-in cupboards,

cabling and prevent little ones from

• Divide: How can this/these best be

bookshelves, wine storage, entertainment

accessing power points or damaging

stored? Boxes, dividing rods in a

units or other storage options, cabinetry

expensive equipment.

drawer, hanging, folding, open shelving

should be well planned, aesthetically considered and functional.

Design Tips: • Start by thinking about how you use a space before prioritising your storage

• Open shelves or display cabinets are good for showcasing treasured possessions. Creative lighting such as LED Strip lighting can help to make a feature of these items.

needs. In our example in this home, the

De-Cluttering Tips: Storing essential

TV unit has a concealed wine fridge

items and removing clutter can be as

which helps define this space as a social

simple as ‘Defining’ and ‘Dividing’.

in any home but especially for families

and entertainment zone

where functional storage is the key

• Hidden or integrated appliances and

Where should these be stored and

electronics create wow factor. They also

accessed? Do you require more storage

help conceal unsightly cords and

options? eg. custom designed cabinetry.

to keeping your house in order.

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• Define: What do you want to store?

5 Ways to Minimise Family Clutter for a Clean Look: [1] Plan for lots of storage – you can never have

etc. Creating clear divisions within these

enough with kids in the house!

storage spaces will assist with organising your bits and bobs meaning less time hunting through drawers and cupboards.

If the idea of tackling your families storage seems overwhelming, enlist the

Design

Ideas

[2] Look for multi-purpose furniture – built-in benches and box seats can hide a multitude of sins [3] Coffee tables with a storage shelf underneath are a great way to store books and boardgames

help of a professional to ensure you create

[4] Baskets – A cost effective and stylish storage

an efficient, functional and attractive

solution in any room

storage solution for your home.

[5] Shelves – Use pretty boxes and containers for a cleaner look. Box shelves inside wardrobes in kids rooms are a practical solution that kids can use easily

www.pakmag.com.au

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Home edition

FEB 2014

Cosy Up! If you’re thinking of updating your child’s bedroom, check out the cool kids range of bedding available at Harvey Norman.

Feeling FLAT?

by Battery World

“Extreme heat could leave motorists stranded this summer,” warns Mackay Battery World’s Gabe Giannangelo. “Batteries perform their best, and last longer, if they are kept at temperatures between -10 and +30 degrees Celsius.”

“If your car is in temperatures consistently higher than that you could be left stranded with little warning. This can be life threatening if you need to get moving because of cyclone or flood. Or it can just be inconvenient especially if you are picking up kids at school or need to be at an appointment by a certain time. Most people associate severe winter weather with battery failure but heat is just as big an enemy. Batteries used to give you some warning - it might start slower or take a few turns to get going, but technology today means you can have a battery working one minute and not the next – just like a light bulb.” Mr Giannangelo said.

If you want to make sure you’re not left stranded this summer, Battery World at 149 Victoria Street, can give your car battery a “Health Check” every six months. They also offer a 24/7 Emergency Car Battery Replacement Service. “We have several testing machines so we can expertly tell you how your battery is travelling,” Mr Giannangelo said.

RAZZLE Dazzle

Single Quilt Rosy Pink

Jiggle and Giggle

if it needs painting, we have the paint.

This new range of sculpture and shell floor lamps at Lighting Network are a great Sheridan Junior Lottle Popsicle

decorative feature and would look stylish in almost any room. They are energy efficient and have colour changing LED’s so they can constantly change colour.

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.) oPening hours Monday to Friday 7am-5pm • saturday 8am-12pm

All of your lighting needs covered

Wholesale Paint Mackay

118 Wood Street, Mackay • PHoNe: 4951 3266

65 Archibald St • Phone 4952 2655 • Visit www.cwp.com.au

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T h aT w o r k s f o r m e

www.pakmag.com.au

www.lightingnetwork.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

47

Home edition

FEB 2013 Design Tips

SportThemed Room diyhome

By Sofie Buchholz

Have you got a sports crazed child? Then why not use this passion as the inspiration for some unique sports-themed decoration.

These ideas are fun and cheap to make if you use second hand or recycled equipment. We were inspired by last month’s Australian Open to make this racquet decoration using a $15 shuttlecock set, black spray paint and wool.

To Make: Spray paint each side of the racquet in a well-ventilated area (eg. outside). Two coats are usually required for optimal colour intensity.

Using a single strand of wool, plan out the letter on the racquet string. Count the strings to help position your letter in the middle of the racquet. Once you are happy with your letter shape and position, wind multiple layers of wool through the string to create a thick overall line.

To secure, tie the wool to itself at the back of your letter.

Other Sporting Ideas: If your child’s not into tennis, here are some other DIY sports bedroom ideas.

BMX: Recycle old bike wheels from bikes found at the ‘Tip Shop’ and mount to the wall to create a bespoke pegboard or artistic decoration. You could also mount multiple wheels spray-painted in different colours for an eye catching effect.

Cricket: Use inexpensive cricket bats from Kmart or Big W and mount to the wall, flat side facing up, using metal brackets to create shelves. These could display books and trophies.

Netball: Make a ‘bib’ style wall hanging displaying your child’s initials.

Ballet: Purchase some inexpensive ballet flats or ‘Jiffy’s’ and attach ribbon to the back of the shoe to resemble point shoes. These could be hung as a group from the bedroom ceiling as decoration.

DIY Materials: Shuttlecock set, Big W, $15 • Acrylic wool, Spotlight , $3 - $6 per ball • Black spray paint, Bunnings, $3 - $20 per can

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