pakmag FEB 2014
To w n s v i l l e
EzEine FMRaga
ISSUE 39
magazine of choice for local families
Sports
Sign-up
• PCYC Family Expo 9 February
Kids
MINI MAG Inside
• NRL Junior Rugby League
Brilliant BRAINS NEW developments affecting children
SAFE
Sleeping
Cover photo courtesy of Cheeky Monkey Photography
The latest SIDS information
Event
Guide
Complete Guide of February Events
Heart
KIDS Awareness Month
win Create & Play with Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set
Details page 24
welcome
12
39
Contents
note
Hello everybody and welcome to our February edition. I hope you’re all enjoying getting back into the school routine – I’m really loving making four lunch boxes every morning again! This month we’re focusing on sports since it’s time to decide on which extra curricular activities your kids want to do this year. If you’re still undecided, why not pop along to the PCYC’s Active Family Expo on 9 February. It’s a great showcase of all the regions sports and clubs and it might even inspire you to do something new this year!
02 FEB
parents 02 What’s New 04 Show & Tell 08 Broken Heart
kids 23 Kid’s MiniMag
babies
11
Catholic Education
We will be holding a PakPanel at Stockland’s Mummy Funday on 10 February so I hope to see some of you there. We’ve invited some experts to come and speak on some parenting topics. Stockland are even offering a coffee & cake voucher (see page 3).
12
Re-Training the Brain
15
PakHealth
Until next time, remember to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.
23 Mini Mag
24 WIN a Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set
Nat
31 PakBaby
32 WIN a Dreambaby® Savannah Gate
34 HOME: Living Room
40 WIN a mystery prize
pakmag
16 Nutrition 19
PakFood
21 What’s On
37
Editor: Elaine Seager Publication & Sales Manager: Natalie Griffiths NQ Sales & Biz Development: Angelina Mortley Design & Layout: Trina Jensen Articles: Elaine Seager, Jutta Dempsey, Amanda Cranston and submitted writers Phone: 4053 3331 Fax: 4053 3350 Sales Phone: 0407 831 962
things to win
Psychological First Aid
39 Cheerleading 40 Fav Pets / Prize Winners
Publisher: Bree James
31 Baby News: Safe Sleeping
cover
41 NRL: The Next Generation 42 Biz Directory
ModelS: Ariana Wilcoxson
43 Swimming
Photography: Thanks to Cheeky Monkey Photography
45 TRAVEL: Heaven for Kids 46 Out & About 48 Mummy Laughs with HotFM
Email: info@pakmag.com.au Postal: PO Box 761, Hyde Park QLD 4812
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 us exclusively in your local: www.pakmag.com.au
1
February what’s new
inBRIEF PCYC Family Expo
SPORTS Sign-On’s PAK Panel
FREE
EVENT
Stockland
Voucher
As part of the next Mummy Funday on 10 February, PakMag is hosting a ‘PakPanel’. We’ve invited three people to come and speak on a range of topics as follows:
FREE $10
• Jutta Dempsey, our resident psychologist and parenting expert, will be talking about dealing with
Morning Tea voucher
bullying and separation anxiety for mums with preppies
Local Sporting Club Sign-On Days •
Ready Steady Go Kids – multi sports and exercise for kids aged 2-7 years. Classes start on 3 February. Cost: $163 per term. Free trial classes available. For more information call 1300 766 892.
•
Paul Sadler Swimland – Learn to swim and squad swimming classes. Free trial lesson available for kids under 3 years. Cost: $185.90 per term. For more information call 4779 4647 or go to www.paulsadlerswimland.com
•
Love2Swim School – Free assessments run until 10 February. Classes available for children from 3 months of age. Cost: from $10 per lesson. Call 4723 3447 or email info@love2swimschool.com.au
• Townsville Oztag – Season starts on 3 February at Illich Park, Aitkenvale. Age 5+. Cost: $95. For more information call Sharon on 0425 278 140 for or go to www.townsvillesouthoztag.com • South Pacific Taekwondo – Classes run everyday of the week from 5.30pm. Suitable for kids aged 3+. First trial session free – sign on anytime. For more info go to www.southpacifictkd.com.au • Kalynda Chase Tennis – various programs available for different ages and abilities start from aged 3+. Start anytime. Call 4755 4722 for more information or email kalyndachasetennis@outlook.com
2
www.pakmag.com.au
• Bell Academy of Dance – Ballet, Tap and Jazz classes for kids aged 5+. Cost: $150 per term. For more information call Margaret on 0400 722 045 or 4751 5086. •
North Shore Swim School – Learn to Swim classes from infants upwards on weekdays and Saturday mornings. Classes run during term time but you can join anytime. Cost: $140 per term. For more info call 4774 7593 or see them on Facebook.
•
Reflexions Dance Studio – Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Hip Hop for kids aged 2½+. Four-week introductory period offered at a reduced rate. For more information call Katrina on 0413 197 370 or email reflexionsdancestudio@bigpond.com
Present this voucher to the Stockland Townsville Customer Care Desk on Monday 10 February to collect a free morning tea voucher that can be redeemed at a list of cafes and food outlets in Stockland. (This offer is limited to the first 100 customers on 10 February.)
• Susan Jarschke from Wellspring Chiropractic will be discussing general children’s health and the weight of school backpacks
Mummy Funday
Morning Tea
10 February (10am-1pm)
• Mitch Smith, an accredited sports dietitian and
9 February 2014
director of Health Management will be talking about
PCYC Aitkenvale
Mummy Funday Agenda
‘Healthy Food for Hungry Tummies’.
• Be the first to pick up your morning tea voucher
There will be an opportunity for questions so come along and join us for an informal information session
Whether you’ve set yourself some health
health screening opportunities and sign-on
with our experts near Best & Less at Stockland.
and fitness goals for 2014 or the kids want
for local sports and recreational clubs and
to try out a new activity, the PCYC’s annual
groups. The activities being showcased
expo makes it easy to find out what’s
include archery (popular last year), dance,
• Be one of the first 100 customers to pick up a sample bag that includes lots of free goodies.
available by providing a one-stop-shop
fencing, martial arts and lots more. You will
where you can access all the information
also be able to get information about the
• Listen to PakMag’s guest speakers (10am)
about local sports and activities.
PCYC’s Before and After School Care and
CHIC Kids
Last year’s Active Family Expo attracted
• Go along to the kids fenced play area near Best & Less for FREE face painting and story reading
Vacation Care programs.
over 3500 visitors and this year’s event
Entry to the event is FREE. There will be free
promises to be even bigger with over 70
rides for the kids as well as canteen facilities
stalls providing information on active living,
and a BBQ.
pakmag
• TAPA – Range of dance classes including Ballroom. Call to enquire about vacancies on 4723 2101. • Croft Gilchrist Dance – Range of classes available starting with Tiny Tots (3yrs+). Call 4779 8481 to find out more. •
Sk8Way – Skatestars are coached through the Learn to Skate Program. For more information go to www.sk8way.com.au or call 4755 4422.
Jodi Lea Kids If you’re looking for some cool and unique accessories for the kids check out the gorgeous range of bags at www.jodileakids.com.au. Designed by a local mum they are a must-have for stylish kids about town. www.pakmag.com.au
3
Show &Tell
The latest news, products and tips in the world of families and kids Get to Know
NEW BOOKS The latest kids books Amelie and Nanette: Sparkly Shoes and Picnic Parties by Sophie Tilley A gorgeously girlie book with beautiful illustrations about two best friends who love dressing up, dancing, going on picnics and enjoying wonderful adventures together. RRP $24.99
Dragon Loves Penguin by Debi Gliori A lovely story about a dragon looking for an egg and an egg looking for a mummy. When the egg hatches and a baby penguin is born a very special relationship emerges between two unlikely creatures. RRP $24.99
The Coat by Julie Hunt
As a busy woman with three cheeky little monkeys to run around after, Anya Karmansky somehow manages to juggle it all with running her family portrait photography business.
A delightful tale about a magical coat that starts off in a paddock full of strawberries then goes on a journey with the
[1] Tell us a bit about your business.
[5] How do you like to unwind? I like to
Most people know me for maternity,
be active and in nature so bushwalking,
newborn and kids photos but I love all kinds
swimming and cycling help me to recharge.
of photography – the versatility is one of the things I enjoy about it. I also have a few outworldly reality digital photography projects in the making. [2] What did you want to be when you grew up? Serious stuff like medicine and engineering! But I ended up doing what I love.
[6] Tell us something most people
man who wears it. RRP $29.99
Breakfast in a Bag
wouldn’t know about you? After my family emigrated from Russia to Israel I had to do two years of compulsory army service. [7] What’s the strangest thing in your handbag? I’m not much of a handbag person, I’m more into pockets, but I do like to keep sachets of salt in my car for takeaways!
[3] What will you be doing on Valentines Day? School drop-offs and pick ups – the usual stuff! I love cooking so I might attempt some extravagant creation although trying
These quick on-the-go breakfasts made by the
to please three kids and two adults doesn’t
Monster Health Food Company are great for busy
leave much room for creativity!
families as you can add milk or yoghurt straight to
[4] What is your goal for 2014? I’d love to
4
www.pakmag.com.au
kite surf or get my dive ticket.
www.cheekymonkeyphotos.com.au
the breakfast bag and eat on the run. www.pakmag.com.au
5
Show &Tell
knick Knack Patty Whack
Got something to share or shout about? Email us at elaine@pakmag.com.au
BOOK Review Local mum Fiona Larter operates her kids clothing store, Knick Knack Patty Whack through Facebook. She stocks a wide range of licensed products from Hello Kitty to Peppa Pig, Mickey & Minnie Mouse and all the usual favourites for kids aged three months to 12 years (seven years for boys). She also stocks a range of flower girl dresses and boys suits if you’ve got weddings coming up.
NAME Your Stuff Fed up with your kids losing stuff? www.namemystuff.com.au sells products that are permanently marked so there’s no need for labels and textas. The product range includes Vorgee goggles, Sistema lunchboxes, fridge-to-go lunch bags and drink bottles with USB sticks to come so you don’t have to worry about lost assignments. All the products are BPA, Lead and Nickel-free and all
Blending the Cultures
GIFT Idea
by Tanya Bartolini
complies with Australian Safety Standards.
spy Kits
Ingham-based mum Tanya Bartolini has published a book of her family’s Italian recipes. “I took my heritage for granted growing up – I thought everyone knew about gnocchi and cannoli and that everyone’s Nonna made rich tomato passata. This book is my attempt to share a part of the Australian story that isn’t widely documented and to both preserve and share these beautiful recipes,” says Tanya. Available on Booktopia, PalmerHiggs.com.au
Lots of kids seem to be into spies and secret agents at the moment so these Crime Catchers Spy Science Kits are very well timed, and they are awesome! Guaranteed to keep your 007’s entertained for hours! RRP $23.65 from www. toyuniverse.com.au
and bookstores. RRP $39.95
6
www.pakmag.com.au
www.pakmag.com.au
7
By Louise Costanzo Six babies are born with a heart defect in
surgery is huge. HeartKids has provided an
Australia every day. There is no known cure or
amazing amount of support to my family and
prevention, but medical advances are greatly
that has made a big difference to how I felt going
improving the outcomes for children and for the
forward. I found that having people to talk to
first time in history, there are now more people
who have been in similar situations has been
over the age of 16 with CHD than younger.
invaluable.”
It is estimated 32,000 Australian children are now
Deanna has recently been elected as a director
living with the condition. Deanna Bentley, her
on the board of HeartKids Queensland and hopes
fiance Owen Ransom, and son Jaydn Myers (11)
to continue to improve the services and support
had their lives turned upside down when De’s
for local families affected by CHD, particularly in
unborn daughter (Kodi, now 2) was diagnosed
regional areas.
with CHD at a late term scan at 30 weeks. After the sonographer announced Kodi had a heart condition, Deanna says she “Only heard a blur of words. I didn’t even know what the condition was or what it meant, just that there was something wrong with my baby.” De scanned the internet and found HeartKids Queensland in the weeks following. “I shared my story to find some sense that I wasn’t alone, that people had been through this experience before and to get some understanding of her condition and how people coped.” She then moved to
“Our family is one of the lucky families, our child has been fixed and we were able to bring our baby home. Kodi has exceeded all of her developmental milestones and she is such a happy and carefree baby that she makes me proud every day.” For more info about HeartKids Qld go to www. heartkidsqld.org.au. They will be holding a trivia night this month to raise money so any business or individuals who would like to donate prizes would be greatly appreciated.
Brisbane at 36 weeks pregnant to focus on the upcoming birth since she was told that the baby would need open-heart surgery within days of being born. After Kodi’s birth she was rushed to NICU for a balloon septostomy. De was eventually able to hold her for the first time two days later. “I saw my beautiful baby girl lying there, I did not see
Six questions every mum should ask at the 20 week ultrasound: As recommended by HeartKidsQLD
the monitors, drugs, lines, wires and tubes all of over her, I just saw my baby and she was alive. I burst into tears I was so relieved.” De says they experienced many terrifying moments over the next six days before an Arterial Switch Operation was performed. “They had to switch the arteries, veins and vessels which were plumbed the reverse way to make them
Broken
Heart
February is HeartKids Awareness Month, aiming to raise awareness and understanding of congenital heart disease – the number one cause of death in children under one.
anatomically correct. We were told she had good odds of getting through the surgery successfully and after that the days were filled with blood tests, ECG’s, echocardiograms, monitors, alarms, washing hands, oxygen saturation levels, and heart rates. So many things you would never think would be a “normal” part of your life.” Kodi is one of the lucky ones. She will need annual cardiac assessments for the rest of her life and has a heart murmur but the life saving surgery has mended her heart and given her a chance at life. Not surprisingly Deanne says that, “Having a child who has suffered from a CHD (even one that has been repaired) has been an emotional rollercoaster ride. The stress and anxiety of watching your child go through open-heart
8
www.pakmag.com.au
1. Do you see four chambers? 2. Do you look at the arteries or outflow tracks as part of your scan? It is extremely important to focus on artery views because CHD is often missed if only a standard ‘chamber view’ is performed. 3. Are the heart and stomach in correct positions? Both organs 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. 5. Is the heart rate too slow or irregular? Too slow (less than 100 beats per minute), too fast (over 200 beats per minute). 6. Is the heart function normal? Does the muscle work normally? Is everything hooked-up correctly? www.pakmag.com.au
9
By Catholic Education
Enrol now for Kindy Choose the Catholic School Difference…for Kindergarten in 2014 If your child turns four years of age on or before 30th June, 2014, they are eligible to start kindergarten this year.
Where all students can be
STARS Classes available in • FATD Jazz & Tap • FATD Classical Ballet • Hip Hop • Flexibility • Wiggles & Giggles
Kindergarten is offered at the following Catholic school sites:
Kindergarten is also offered at the St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centres: • St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre, Mundingburra (Next to St Joseph’s Catholic School)
• Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan
• St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre, Kirwan (Across from Ryan Catholic College Snr campus)
• St Joseph’s School, The Strand - AN ADDITIONAL KINDY GROUP IS NOW AVAILABLE!
• St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre, Rasmussen (Next to Good Shepherd Catholic School)
• St Anthony’s Catholic College, Deeragun
• St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre, Ingham (Across from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School)
• St Clare’s Catholic School, Burdell (North Shore) • St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Mount Isa Before and after kindergarten care is also available, to help families with the kindergarten program.
• St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre, Mount Isa (Next to St Kieran’s Catholic School) • St Mary MacKillop Gooddo Early Learning Centre, Palm Island
Enrolment application forms are available on the Townsville Catholic Education website www.tsv. catholic.edu.au/kindergarten or by contacting the office on kindergarten@tsv.catholic.edu.au Once your child begins their learning journey with Catholic education, whether it is at one of our early learning centres, kindergartens or schools, it is a great idea to connect with us on social media to keep up to date with news and events. More than 13,000 students attend Catholic schools in the Townsville Diocese.
We welcome you to our growing Catholic Education community. For more info visit www.tsv.catholic.edu.au
Students prepared for • FATD Examinations • Eisteddfods
ENROl NOw!
Now taking enrolments for 2014 (Children 2½ years & upwards) For all enquirieS & enrolmentS contact Katrina or laura ADDRESS: 2/743 Riverway Dr, Thuringowa Central • EMAIL: reflexionsdancestudio@bigpond.com
& 0413 197 370
10
www.pakmag.com.au
www.reflexionsdancestudio.com.au www.pakmag.com.au
11
By Jutta Dempsey Over the last several decades learning, attention,
and through training can learn to change
behavior and emotional difficulties have
dysregulated brainwaves to more functional and
traditionally been treated by medication and/
flexible brainwave frequencies. The feedback
or therapy. A child with ADHD will often be
is presented in the form of a sophisticated
prescribed Ritalin to assist with their learning
brainwave-oriented game – just like playing
and behavior. Adolescents with anxiety or
a computer game with your brain. It is
depression will often receive counselling,
individualised to each person’s brainwaves by
perhaps Cognitive Behavior Therapy and if
the psychologist or therapist who is reading
severe, also appropriate medication. Autistic
and adjusting it continually for maximum
children will have a combination of therapies
effectiveness.
to assist them to function. Dyslexic children will have years of tutoring to help them through their school years. Whilst all of these approaches have merit in helping children overcome their difficulties, they rarely eliminate the problem altogether. However, that is all changing with rapid advances in neuroscience increasing our understanding of how the brain works and providing psychologists with some exciting new tools.
changes we are seeing in those who are treated with Neurofeedback - the results are astounding. As an example, we have worked with a teenager living in a constant state of worry and panic that had turned to depression. The cluster of problems he was dealing with included self-esteem problems, an inability to focus at school and he tended to be irritable which was driving friends away. The EEG showed he had brainwaves four times the normal rate but once
that is capable of being changed and we are
they were regulated his anxiety was reduced, his
able to accurately map the functioning of the
depression lifted and he was able to focus on
brain, allowing us to see what is causing the
schoolwork and friends.
And what has been discovered is that all of these difficulties are usually the outward signs of a ‘dysregulated’ brain.
The Brain
children and adolescents I am excited about the
We now know that the brain is a dynamic organ
psychological and emotional disorders we treat.
Re-Training
After more than 30 years of working with
Neurofeedback has also been shown to be especially effective with treating ADHD. We treated a pre-teen child who couldn’t focus, was excessively fidgety, was failing all his subjects
A dysregulated brain is usually the result of a
and had no friends. Ritalin had unfortunately
subtle injury or genetics. It means the brain
produced the afternoon rebounds, making him
is unable to self-regulate itself in a normal
irritable and difficult. After many sessions of
way; it may be too slowed down or too fast or
Neurofeedback, his grades jumped to B average
out of balance in certain areas for adequate
and he had some solid friends (he was even
functioning. By mapping the brain using an EEG
invited to birthday parties!).
(electroencephalogram) we can see a person’s brain waves in detail and also work out which areas of the brain need improving.
Neuroscience is advancing at such an incredible rate that the treatment possibilities for young people with psychological problems today are
The brainwave patterns that are causing
endless. The ability to remedy the actual cause
problems can now be regulated or normalised
of psychological problems rather than dealing
through a process call Neurofeedback. This
with symptoms is a major breakthrough that
is perhaps the biggest breakthrough in
allows them to reach their full potential.
noninvasive medicine in the last 50 years and psychologists all over the world are now adding Neurofeedback to their list of therapies because it addresses the primary cause of the disorder
Jutta Dempsey is the principal psychologist
rather than dealing with symptoms.
at Directions Learning & Behaviour Guidance. For more information about
Exciting new developments have been occurring in the world of neuroscience. The possibilities for helping children with a range of psychological and emotional difficulties are drastically improving. 12
www.pakmag.com.au
Neurofeedback generally involves two sessions
Neurofeedback contact them on 4755 2730
a week where the person is connected to a
or go to www.directionspsych.com.au
specialised EEG computer system. By watching a monitor, they can see their brainwaves www.pakmag.com.au
13
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
Dr Kurinji Kannan Urogynaecologist, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Uro-Gynaecology & Women’s Health Clinic Urogynaecology
Prolapse Surgery
Urinary Incontinence
Laparoscopy
General Gynaecology
Obstetrics
Suite 1.02, Park Haven Medical Centre, 7 Bayswater Rd, Hyde Park PHONE: 4771 6677 www.urogynaeclinic.com.au
today’s children are not getting enough exercise and a
Pet Heaven NQ Townsville’s Pet Crematorium & Cemetery
new study, led by researchers at the University of South Australia, recently released it’s findings after analysing
Asthma Product
the fitness levels of millions of children around the world.
NEW
Kennel oR Pet CaReR RemembeR if heading away, advise youR unexPeC tedly Pass Pet of youR Requests should youR
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.
For more info call 4751 3220 or email info@petheaven.com.au www.petheaven.com.au
Compassionate & kind
www.pakmag.com.au
out as you may spread the infection.
Our friendly staff at Pet Heaven NQ wish readers and their families a Happy and Safe New Year
• Your choice of cremation or burial services • Collection from your home or Vet • Range of ashes boxes and memorial items • Professional and personalised service
14
be needed. Don’t rub a stye or try to squeeze the pus
Affordable options
Local family owned & operated
The researchers said obesity likely plays 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,
to take their medications. To find out more go to www.airsonea.com.au www.pakmag.com.au
15
Nutrition pak
Review Food
Beetroot
Love is sweet... show your Valentine how sweet you can be, with an edible gift from sweeter than sugar
Food
review
Healthy Fast Food?
by Rebecca McKenna • Decorating Workshops • Edible gifts for the whole family • Unique custom made cakes that taste as good as they look
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.
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!
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!
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
www.pakmag.com.au
Follow us on facebook: www.facebook.com/sweeterthansugar
Remember the letters V.C.P. When choosing a takeaway meal.
nutritionadvice
16
169 ChartErs toWErs roaD (opposite Mitre 10) PhonE 4740 4551 • VIsIt www.sweeterthansugar.com.au
Pickerings Jeep
07 4726 5576 LMCT3192679
Sturt Street, Townsville www.pickerings.com.au www.pakmag.com.au
17
pakfood
with TROY WILLIAMS
THE GOOD GUYS
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.
18
www.pakmag.com.au
www.pakmag.com.au
19
green = kids
Check out the latest family entertainment & events guide
SkatiNg RiNk
NOW OPEN
FEB
blue = adults
guide
pink = family
yourGUIDE
February 2014 entertainment & events
72 Hervey Range Road thuringowa Central
DATE
• Skating • inline Hockey • artiStic Skate • roller Derby • roller Hockey & More gENERal SkatE: thu 4-6pm, Fri 7-10pm, Sat & Sun 10-12pm & 2-4pm • $12 entry • Skate Hire $3 all agES lEaRN tO SkatE: tue 4-5pm ($7 inc skate hire), Sat 9.30-10am ($12 inc skate session afterwards until 12pm, skate hire $3)
PHONE: 4755 4422 www.sk8way.com.au
Want Fun For $1?
VENUE
ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME
TIME
1/2/14
The Venue
The Australian Queen Tribute Show
7.00pm
1/2/14
The Strand
The Sydney Morning Herald Sun Run
9.00am
1/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Kids D.I.Y Chinese New Year Workshop
1/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Adult D.I.Y Quick Refresh - Repair & Maintenance Workshop
2/2/14
The Old Courthouse Theatre
Spoon Lickers - Mango Mayhem Trop Fest
1.00pm
FOR MORE INFO
COST
4724 2800
$30
4726 9000
Free
Cost 4726 9000
Free
spoonlickers01@gmail.com
Cost
2/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Kids D.I.Y Craft Workshop
4726 9000
Free
2/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Adults D.I.Y Quick Refresh - Repair & Maintenance Workshop
4726 9000
Free
2/2/14
Cannon park Townsville
Chinese New Year Celebrations
6.30pm
0448 136 578
Free
3/2/14
Body Torque - Currajong
Kids Kickboxing
3.30pm
4725 8001
Cost
3/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Baby Rhyme Time
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
4/2/14
22 Ridley Kirwan
Smile Time Playgroup
9.30am
4721 2304
Cost
4/2/14
Townsville RSL Stadium
Street Soccer
2.00pm
0415 305 705
Cost
4/2/14
The Cathedral School
Tour on Tuesday
10.00am
4722 2000
Free
4/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Messy Play in The Park
9.00am
4727 8310
Free
4/2/14
City Libraries Aitkenvale
Time-lapse videos using iphone or ipad
10.00am
4727 8310
Free
4/2/14
Re-Cre8tiv
Kids Art Classes
3.30pm
0414 647 709
Cost
4/2/14
City Libraries Flinder Street
Storytime
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
4/2/14
Aldon Tutoring Centre
Tiny Tots Sign language Program
9.30am
www.tinytotssign.com
Cost
5/2/14
The Townsville Choral Society
The Pirates of Penzance
8.00pm
4727 9797
Cost
5/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
Storytime with La Luna Arts
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
5/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Messy Play
9.00am
4727 8310
Free
Heaps of arcade Games priced at $1 per Game
5/2/14
IMPS Building, Kirwan Health
Breastfeeding and Returning to Work
9.15am
abapublicitytsv@gmail.com
Free
5/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Computer Basics A
10.00am
4727 8310
Free
• FREE Jumping Castles • Laser Tag (from $8) • Kids Parties available • BYO healthy food • Café with coffee, cake & hot snack foods • Fun for all ages
6/2/14
The Church of The Ascension: Heatley MultiCultural Playgroup
9.30am
0403 665 672
$2
6/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
Baby Rhyme Time
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
7/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring your Baby: The Book Thief
10.30am
For more inFo call 4728 3913 or visit www.i4Fun.com.au
i4fUN
Cost
E
VEday SAver y
There’s a store near you Aitkenvale - 290 Ross River Road PHONE: 4725 5244 Kirwan - 36 Thuringowa Drive PHONE: 4773 4224 Woodlands - Woodlands Shopping Centre PHONE: 4751 6286
OPEN 7 DAYS • www.calannapharmacy.com.au FEEL ALIVE
20
www.pakmag.com.au
FEEL HEALTHY
FEEL GOOD www.pakmag.com.au
21
pink = family
DATE 7/2/14
green = kids
VENUE TECC
blue = adults
ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Townsville Crocodiles vs Perth Wildcats
TIME
FOR MORE INFO
7.30pm
4771 4000 1300 878 001
7/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Storytime
10.00am
7/2/14
The Strand
Night Markets
5.00pm
8/2/14
Events Cinemas
Kids Club: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
COST Free Free
4771 4000
$6
8/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Adults D.I.Y Tiling & Plastering Workshops
4726 9000
Free
8/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Kids D.I.Y Fun Mosaics Workshop
4726 9000
Free
9/2/14
Events Cinemas
Kids Club: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
9/2/14
PCYC Townsville
Townsville Jazz Club Open Night
9/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Adults D.I.Y Tiling & Plastering Workshops
9/2/14
Rydges Southbank Townsville
Bridal Spectacular
9/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Kids D.I.Y Fun with Paint Workshop
5.30pm 10.00am
10/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring your Baby: The Book Thief
10.30am
10/2/14
Body Torque- Currajong
Kids Kickboxing
3.30pm
4771 4000
$6
0413 456 542
Free
4726 9000
Free
4726 5222
Free
4726 9000
Free
4725 8001
Cost
Cost
10/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Baby Rhyme Time
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
10/2/14
Stockland Townsville
Mummy Funday Pak Panel #2
10.00am
4779 6033
Free
11/2/14
Aldon Tutoring Centre
Tiny Tots Sign language Program
9.30am
www.tinytotssign.com
Cost
11/2/14
City Libraries: Flinder Street
Storytime
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
11/2/14
22 Ridley Kirwan
Smile Time Playgroup
9.30am
4721 2304
Cost
1300 878 001
Free
12/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring your Baby: The Book Thief
10.30am
12/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Messy Play
9.30am
Cost
12/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
Storytime
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
13/2/14
Re-Cre8tiv
Kids Art Classes
3.30pm
0414 647 709
Cost
13/2/14
The Church of The Ascension: Heatley MultiCultural Playgroup
9.30am
0403 665 672
$2
13/2/14
Juliette's
6.30pm
abapublicitytsv@gmail.com
Free
Australian Breastfeeding Association - Coffee & Chat Night
13/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
Baby Rhyme Time
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
13/2/14
Townsville Civic Theatre
The Hollies Live in Concert
7.30pm
4727 9797
Cost
10.30am 0425 827 770
Free
14/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring Your Baby: Mandela Walk to Freedom
14/2/14
Castletown Shopping Centre
Valentine's day Orchid Show
14/2/14
Coutts Commercial Hotel Ayr
Valentine's Day
6.30pm
Kids MINI MAG
Cost
Cost Cost
Peppa Pig Š 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 761, Hyde Park QLD 4812 & you could WIN a Create and Play with Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set Top of Form
24
$29.99 RRP (Competition Closes 18/02/14) www.pakmag.com.au
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
[5] Have you come across any muddle
make lots of new friends!
Exclusive Interview Peppa Pig Š 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!
[6] Do you have anything you'd like to say to Australia's boys and girls?
green = kids
yourGUIDE DATE 14/2/14
VENUE Jam Corner
ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Valentine's Day Dining
Events Cinemas
Kids Club: Walking with Dinosaurs
4771 4000
$6
Kids D.I.Y Wall Art Workshop
4726 9000
Free
15/2/14
Townsville Civic Theatre
Umbilical Brothers - Not suitable for Children
7.30pm
4727 9797
$44
15/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Queensland Writers Centre Workshop Writing
9.30am
4727 8310
Cost
9.00am
15/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
ABC Open Writing and Photography Workshop
15/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Adults D.I.Y Storage Solutions Workshop Kids Club: Walking with Dinosaurs
Events Cinemas
[3] Does your brother George go
And if you do see any muddy puddles
Townsville Community Music Centre The Aviva Quartet
everywhere with you? Yes, and Mr
that you want to jump up and down in,
A. Hogs and Kisses!
Q: What did the chocolate syrup say to the ice cream?
COST Cost
Bunnings Warehouse
16/2/14
Q: What do farmers give their wives on Valentine's Day?
FOR MORE INFO 4721 4900
15/2/14
16/2/14
remember you must wear your boots!
TIME 6.30pm
15/2/14
Um...hello! I hope you like my show!
Dinosaur goes everywhere with him.
FEB
blue = adults
guide
pink = family
2.00pm
4773 8811
Free
4726 9000
Free
4771 4000
$6
4727 9797
Cost
16/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Kids D.I.Y Decorator Workshop
4726 9000
Free
16/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Adults D.I.Y Storage Solutions Workshop
4726 9000
Free
0439 759 975
Free
1300 878 001
Free
16/2/14
Riverway Performance Centre
The Wedding Ideas Expo
11.00am
17/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring Your Baby: Mandela Walk to Freedom
10.30am
17/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Baby Rhyme Time
10.00am
Cost
17/2/14
Body Torque - Currajong
Kids Kickboxing
3.30pm
4725 8001
Cost
18/2/14
City Libraries: Flinder Street
Storytime
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
18/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Android - Tablet Basics
11.00am
4727 8310
Free
18/2/14
Aldon Tutoring Centre
Tiny Tots Sign Language Program
9.30am
www.tinytotssign.com
Cost
4721 2304
Cost
4783 9880
Cost
18/2/14
22 Ridley Kirwan
Smile Time Playgroup
9.30am
19/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring Your Baby: Mandela Walk to Freedom
12.30pm
19/2/14
Burdekin Theatre
Pirates to Pinafore
7.30pm
Cost
19/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Messy Play
9.00am
4727 8310
Free
19/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
Storytime
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
19/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
Loud Lounge: Hula Hooping
3.00pm
1300 878 001
Free
19/2/14
IMPS Building, Kirwan Health
BLISS Morning - chat/play and meet other ABA Mums
9.15am
abapublicitytsv@gmail.com
Free
20/2/14
The Church of The Ascension: Heatley MultiCultural Playgroup
9.30am
0403 665 672
$2
0414 647 709
Cost
1300 878 001
Free
20/2/14
Re-Cre8tiv
Kids Art Classes
3.30pm
21/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring your Baby: Last Vegas
10.30am
21/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Storytime
10.00am
Cost
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
green = kids
FEB
blue = adults
guide
pink = family
yourGUIDE DATE 22/2/14
VENUE Events Cinemas
ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME
TIME
Kids Club: Freebirds
FOR MORE INFO 4771 4000
COST $6
22/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Adults D.I.Y : Basic D.I.Y workshop skills
4726 9000
Free
22/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Kids D.I.Y Art Class Workshop
4726 9000
Free
22/2/14
TECC
Townsville Crocodiles vs Sydney Kings
22/2/14
Plaza Hotel
The Australian Psychic Expo Townsville
23/2/14
Horseshoe Bay Foreshore
Magnetic Island Sunday Markets
23/2/14
Events Cinemas
Kids Club: Freebirds
23/2/14
Perc Tucker Regional Gallery
Lego Blockbuster
23/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Kids D.I.Y Animal Craft Workshop
23/2/14
Bunnings Warehouse
Adults D.I.Y : Basic D.I.Y Skills Workshop
23/2/14
The Venue
Wedding Expo
7.30pm
4771 4000
Cost
1300 769 990
Free
4771 4000
$6
9.00am 10.00am
9.30am
24/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring your Baby: Last Vegas
10.30am
24/2/14
Body Torque - Currajong
Kids Kickboxing
3.30pm
Free 4727 9011
Free
4726 9000
Free
4726 9000
Free
4724 2800
Free
4725 8001
Cost
Cost
24/2/14
City Libraries: Aitkenvale
Baby Rhyme Time
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
25/2/14
22 Ridley Kirwan
Smile Time Playgroup
9.30am
4721 2304
Cost
25/2/14
Aldon Tutoring Centre
Tiny Tots Sign language Program
9.30am
www.tinytotssign.com
Cost
25/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
Digital Photography
9.30am
4773 8811
Free
25/2/14
City Libraries: Flinders Street
Storytime
10.00am
1300 878 001
Free
4773 8811
26/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
Managing Your Money Seminar
6.00pm
26/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring your Baby: Last Vegas
12.30pm
Free Cost
27/2/14
The Church of The Ascension: Heatley MultiCultural Playgroup
9.30am
0403 665 672
27/2/14
School of Arts Theatre
9.00am
www.soatheatretownsville.com.au Cost
Flickerfest
$2
27/2/14
City Libraries: Thuringowa Central
Baby Rhyme Time
10.00am
1300 878 001
27/2/14
School of Arts Theatre
Flickerfest
9.00am
www.soatheatretownsville.com.au Cost
0414 647 709
27/2/14
Re-Cre8tiv
Kids Art Classes
3.30pm
27/2/14
Events Cinemas
Bring your Baby: Endless Love
10.30am
Free Cost Cost
This is a free listing. Submit your event info to: admin@pakmag.com.au
Regular Markets COTTERS MARKETS 8.30am-1pm every Sun at Flinders Mall STRAND NIGHT MARKETS 5-9pm 1st Fri of the month (May-Dec) at Strand Park WILLOWS MARKETS 7.30-11.30am every Sun at Willows Shopping Centre BALGAL BEACH MARKET 3.30pm-7pm 1st Sat of the month Fisherman’s Landing Café MOUNT VIEW PLAZA MARKETS 8am-2pm every Saturday
28
www.pakmag.com.au
SUNDAY MARKETS – CASTLE HILL PCYC THURINGOWA COMMUNITY MARKETS 8am-1pm 1st Sunday of each month HORSESHOE BAY MARKETS (MAGGIE ISLAND) 9.30am-1.30pm last Sun of every month at Horseshoe Bay Foreshore CHARTERS TOWERS SHOWGROUND MARKETS 7.30am-11.30am 2nd Sun every month CHARTERS TOWERS STOCK EXCHANGE MARKETS 8am-12.00 noon 1st & 3rd Sun every month on Mosman Street
INGHAM MARKETS 3rd Sun every month at Rotary Park AYR MARKETS 8.30am-12.00 noon 1st & 3rd Sun every month at Plantation Park NQ FARMERS MARKET Every Friday 4pm-9pm at North Shore Town Centre SATURDAY NIGHT MARKETS Every Saturday from 2-9pm at 87 Ingham Road, West End (opposite Showgrounds) 1st market kicks off on the 10th November
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.
townsville’s family maGazine for parents of “beans to teens” 3 reasons to use pakmag: [1] pakmag prints 10,000 copies every month [2] pakmag is the only family mag in Townsville that can distribute to every McDonalds & Coles from Ayr to Ingham [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 Natalie on 0427 725 624 or email tsvsales@pakmag.com.au to see how we can help your biz in the family market - FREE opportunities exist
32
www.pakmag.com.au
www.pakmag.com.au
33
Home edition
Living Room
FEB 2013
TIP Extra seating can be made available with occasional
Design Tips
chairs or an ottoman.
Functional Stylish Living Rooms
Lounge Room from Bold Interiors
Family hub
Entertainment/Storage Design Factors
Seating
How you use this area of your home and how you interact within it will dictate how it should be designed. Consider these questions:
Obviously your choice of seating is largely determined by how much space you have. Consider the number of family members who will be using the space and then factor in the number and frequency of guests. Large modular corner lounges are an ideal way to comfortably seat the family, but shop carefully, as some can be visually imposing. For extra seating add an occasional chair or an ottoman.
• How do your family and guests use this living space?
Story thanks to BOLD Interiors
• Do the kids retreat to the living room whilst the parents head to the outdoor room area?
The living room is the hub of the
• Does everyone sit together all at once or is it staggered seating through the duration of an evening?
home where the family can gather to unwind, socialise, watch TV, read or have a comfy afternoon kip 34
www.pakmag.com.au
• Do you have a separate living room area allowing this zone to be used for more formal occasions?
Most living rooms are also media rooms so look for technology that can be integrated into an entertainment unit or joinery so that it is a feature but doesn’t dominate the room. Cleverly designed
Design
Ideas
side tables and coffee tables can also provide additional storage in a living room. If you want a customised solution that suits your individual cabinetry requirements, talk to an interior designer to save time.
Comfort Comfort should not be limited to seating. Think about placing a soft rug underfoot introduce textured scatter cushions and add a plush throw. These are a great way to bring pattern and vibrancy to a space. www.pakmag.com.au
35
By Robert Gronbeck
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.) oPening hours monday to Friday 7am-5pm • saturday 8am-1pm
PsychologicalFirstAid
Wholesale Paint toWnsville
72 Pilkington St • Phone 4725 3082 • Visit www.twp.com.au
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
can assist them in learning about their emotions,
musical recital, suffering a mental block or lapse
been shown to be most effective. Rather than
learning new methods of problem solving,
of concentration at a crucial point of a game or
rehashing the event or having a good cry, the
promoting helpful thinking and rebuilding social
performance - these are just some of the many
best approach can be remembered as LOOK,
connections (often the cause of embarrassment
experiences that can leave lasting affects on our
LISTEN, and LINK. Look for ways to offer practical
in these scenarios).
children. As parents it can be tricky determining
care and check for serious distress or shock
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
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.
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 occasionally they may need just a little bit of psychological first aid so that it doesn’t damage their future enjoyment or self esteem.
There will always be a small but substantial
can vary though so they may respond differently
proportion of children affected by performance
to failure according to the situation. For example,
mistakes, especially when on a big stage
a child may bounce back easily from mishaps on
or important game, and even with caring,
For more information about how to help your
the sports field but struggle emotionally when
supportive parents these children may continue
child overcome performance setbacks, go to
they under-perform in school tests.
to languish for a prolonged period of time after
www.masterfulperformances.com.au or
the event. If your child seems to be finding it
call Robert Gronbeck on 0405 245 608.
a perceived failure, what can you do to help them
36
or support (physio, healing time frame) to build
that provide them with social, physical, emotional
abilities and self-image. A child’s level of resilience
So if your child is struggling to bounce back from
www.pakmag.com.au
and help them connect to information, resources
Our children are involved in all sorts of activities
get over it?
difficult to recover from an event like this, it may be worthwhile consulting with professional who www.pakmag.com.au
37
By Michelle Dryburgh
Cheerleading The North Queensland Warriors Cheerleading has just introduced a junior team, which means that Townsville youngsters could be among the next generation of international cheerleading stars. North Queensland Warriors Cheerleading is
including the Townsville Crocodiles NBL games.
they didn’t go on to compete at a higher level.
opening its doors to children under 13 for the
The squad has 40 members enrolled for 2014,
“They learn life-long lessons in team work,
first time with both girls and boys as young as
including 12 members in the junior team, and
commitment, dedication, encouragement and
seven being invited to join the team, priming
Leah says numbers have been growing steadily
responsibility,” she says.
them for international level competition by their
each year, a trend echoed right across Australia.
teenage years.
oriented sport, it teaches them the importance of
“Getting to the highest levels of All Star
to the point the total amount of teams entered
making a commitment to a group of people and
cheerleading takes years of dedication and hard
in just one division at last year’s Australian
understanding that if you don’t show up, you’re
work and if they can get a head start then why
All Star Cheerleading Federation National
not only letting yourself down, but your whole
not?” says head coach Leach Buchanan.
Championships, was more than the total amount
team.
“As in most sports, the younger you start the better. I wanted to give Townsville kids the
years before.
“Because the athletes work so closely together they form tight bonds and life-long friendships.
“The high level teams competing in the US are
I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard
time they reach their teens they’re either at or
proving time and time again Australia can hold
cheerleaders refer to their team as their second
working toward a level where they can represent
its own in the world of cheerleading and this
family.”
Australia overseas.”
gives the rest of us the drive and inspiration to get to that same level.
and has been competing across Australia and
“I think social media has also played a huge
internationally since 2010. They competed
part. You can now follow the day-to-day lives of
in three major Australian cheerleading
American All Star cheerleaders on Instagram,
competitions last year, coming out Overall Grand
Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.”
Champions at the Aussie Gold Championships and winning themselves a partially-paid ticket to the Aloha Spirit Championships in Hawaii. The open team also performs at local events www.pakmag.com.au
of teams entered in the entire event just two
chance to get involved at an early age so by the
North Queensland Warriors formed in 2009
38
“Because All Star cheerleading is such a team-
“It has grown so much over the past few years,
The North Queensland Warriors Junior program will operate similarly to the Open competition team, with training three times a week alternating between Townsville PCYC and Gymnastics Townsville. Email Leah at
Leah says the benefits of cheerleading are
nqwarriorscheerleading@hotmail.com
endless, and young children can learn valuable
for more information.
life skills from being a part of the team, even if www.pakmag.com.au
39
Pets
By Rachel Holliday
fav
Fav pet shot of the month wins a mystery prize to the value of $30!
February entries
Fudge loved by Kayla
Wing & Star loved by Kayla
NRL:The Prize winner
Penny loved by Caleb
Puppy loved by Shelise
Email your photo, name/s & address to: photos@pakmag.com.au • Deadline for photos is 18 February for the March 2014 edition of Pakmag.
Winners prize
Whether your child plays rugby league for fun or has an ambition to play for Australia, Townsville District Junior NRL has 11 actionpacked teams ready for your child to get involved in. So sign up for a sporting start that could springboard your child to Cowboys stardom. All athletes have to start somewhere and Rugby
can have heaps of fun and activity when training
The three biggest clubs in Townsville are Brothers,
League star Sam Thaiday is no exception. A true
and playing the game”.
Centrals and Western Lions. There’s also United
expert in his field, he is adored by fans for his sheer effort and undeniable talent every time he takes to the field. A ten year representative for the Brisbane Broncos, Thaiday also helped Queensland win the State of Origin eight
to find out January competition winners please stay in touch on our facebook page or check out our March 2014 edition. The competitions had not closed at the time of going to print.
consecutive years in a row. But like many successful athletes, Thaiday began his athletic career locally: as a member of the Townsville Brothers Junior NRL. It seems that Thaiday is not the only national success that has stemmed from Townsville since many other young boys have progressed to stardom through the program. Tony Quinn, NRL Regional Development Manager for North Queensland emphasises the importance of Junior NRL Clubs: “They are where our State Of Origin Stars begin their careers, where so many of the Maroons fans come from, and where our children
40
www.pakmag.com.au
Next Generation
Rugby League continues to be one of the most popular sports in the country. At present there are 126,025 registered junior club players who play for one of the almost 8000 teams that make up
Suburbs who have just relocated to new grounds over at South Townsville, and Burdekin, Charters Towers, Herbert River, Upper Ross, Bowen and Norths.
the 1300 Junior Rugby League Clubs nationwide.
So if your child has dreams of athletic success
As well as a great opportunity to make friends,
or just enjoys throwing a footy ball around with
the sport encourages positive sportsmanship,
friends, there are plenty of opportunities to get
athletic fitness and friendly competitiveness.
them involved with Townsville Junior NRL. Who
From their very first day, kids have the
knows, they could be the next Sam Thaiday!
opportunity to begin their athletic career. The sport focuses on a whole-of-game program so its newest members can enjoy playing the whole game without just practicing skills. They have the opportunity to develop skills such as try scoring, evasion, passing and kicking in a wholesome and supportive environment, whilst improving
Townsville District Junior Rugby League are now registering players aged 6-16 for 2014.To find out which of the 11 teams are nearest to you visit www.playrugbyleague.com
confidence, co-ordination and overall fitness. www.pakmag.com.au
41
BIZDirectory ads from ONLY $70/month For more info email Natalie at tsvsales@pakmag.com.au
directory
BIZDirectory directory
directory
Kids
Activities Story thanks to Christine Dellit
rides & eNTERTAINMENT for all occasions fetes, festivals, special events, xmas parties & birthdays
swimming
Quality entertainment & amusements for the whole family. we will travel anywhere!
for more info call 0488 676 701 or visit www.amusementsplus.com.au
You could advertise here for as little as $70/month
Call 4034 3331 for more information
Wanted! 5 Key people
To help with the expansion of a new division in the health industry
• No experience needed • Immediate start You can earn • Full training & support provided
$3,000+ per month
Available for: Fetes, Festivals, Corporate Functions, Birthday Parties & Christmas Parties For more inFormation Phone 1800 62 98 36 www.qldamusements.com.au
There’s a lot more to swimming than splashing around in the backyard pool but how do you know when your child is competent enough to stop swimming lessons?
Call or text “HEALTH & YOUR NAME” NOW 0402 543 186
0419 790 534
www.bodybrainbalance.com.au All systems go with kinesiology. De-stress, move & switch on to improve learning outcomes & emotional wellbeing.
[7] Swimming is a wonderful cross training sport for all other sports
If you didn’t start swimming lessons early don’t worry, but do it now! If your child is fearful of the water they can still flourish in a swim school that recognises each child’s differences and shows patience and praise.
The most common stage that parents drop their children out of swimming lessons is when they believe their child can safely swim in a backyard pool. I believe this puts the child at a higher risk, as you believe they are safe when in fact they are not.
For those parents who discontinue lessons because their child can ‘sort of’ do strokes and ‘they’re not going to be an Olympic swimmer’ consider the following:
The key benchmark of swimming competence according to the swimming industry is when children can swim a kilometer of freestyle with good technique and can tread water proficiently for at least 15 minutes.
[1] Swimming is the only ‘sport’ that also provides a life saving skill [2] It can provide an entry to many other aquatic activities [3] Like any other skill it must be practiced to be retained
42
[4] Children do not have skill retention until about 7 years of age www.pakmag.com.au
[5] Swimming is a skill that can then be retained for life
The question of when and how children should learn to swim is under constant scrutiny given the tragic level of childhood drowning. And, despite the overwhelming evidence of the benefits of starting swim lessons under five years of age (recently confirmed by a Griffith University study), many parents still do not choose to commit to learn to swim lessons for their children.
[6] Just because a child can ‘swim’ in their backyard pool does not mean they are safe or are actually able to swim effectively
Children will only achieve this level of competence and good stroke technique from ‘learn to swim’ professionals, preferably in a small group situation. If you are relying on the school to teach your child to swim, be aware that school programs are carried out for a short time and are not geared to instruct your child individually.
Transitioning to swim clubs The biggest mistake that parents can make is to transition a child into a swim club too soon. I would advise keeping your child at a swim school that focuses on fun, technique and fitness over small distances to ensure correct technique is retained before progressing to a swim club. If they have an undeveloped or poor technique, swimming long distances with large groups causes fatigue and a breakdown in technique. These children will need constant stroke correction to avoid their poor technique becoming a learnt skill that is impossible to correct. Swimming clubs and other aquatic sports and activities provide a fantastic opportunity for fun, friendship, fitness and/or competition but ensure your child has a solid background, obtained from a technique focused learn to swim school, before they join. Christine Dellit has been involved with swimming for over 40 years. Her family own and operate her own swim school in Queensland.
www.pakmag.com.au
43
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
Special OFFER
44
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
45
out&about
submit your photos
email to: photos@pakmag.com.au
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About photos thanks to Cheeky Monkey photography > www.cheekymonkeyphotos.com.au
46
www.pakmag.com.au
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About at Baby’s Day Out
Out & About photos thanks to Cheeky Monkey photography > www.cheekymonkeyphotos.com.au
www.pakmag.com.au
47
By Tianna Graham
Laughs mummy
Holidays are over, time to go back to the world of the working. It has been really fun the last few weeks spending time as a family and watching Eva change before our eyes. Her personality is really blossoming now. She is starting to throw tantrums but on the flip side is quick to dish out smiles and even give away a few kisses. Eva has also found her feet...but not how you would expect!
came a little later but she is nailing that now too. Eva will turn her nose up at her walker and even deliberately sit down if you try to make her walk holding your hands. However, as soon as her bum hits that little plastic seat it’s “go-time!” We
She had only ever ridden her trike on a flat terrain before but now she lined herself up and pushed herself down the ramp. I chased after her as she gathered speed, thinking that she would no doubt get the wobbles, fall off and then scream the house down. She did the opposite. She
You may have read a few months ago that Eva
spent a week or so at my parent’s house over
started standing by herself. We thought for sure
the Christmas holidays and they have a massive
she would start walking in the following days
deck and a lot of space for a little girl to test her
and weeks, but alas she still hasn’t taken those
limits on a trike. By the end of the week she was
first steps. But as I said she has found her ‘feet’
zooming so fast around the house that I had to
Now when people ask us if she is walking, we say
in the shape of a little pink and purple trike that
break into a run to catch up with her.
“no but you should check out the speed she gets
she was given for her birthday. It only took her a couple of days of trying, and watching other kids riding their trikes to figure out how to propel herself forwards and backwards. The steering
48
www.pakmag.com.au
Then she made the discovery that I was dreading – the ramp on the back deck! She was zooming around the dogs trying to pat them as they ran away from her, when she stumbled on the ramp.
actually braced herself, leant back and lifted her feet off the ground for more speed and screamed with laughter all the way down.
on her trike down the driveway”. Their faces are priceless.
Tianna Graham x www.pakmag.com.au
49
50
www.pakmag.com.au