PAKMAG JULY AUSTRALIA ISSUE 1

ISSUE NO. 1 Jul 2015 AUSTRALIA

e c i o h C e l p i t l Mu RY

FEATURE STO

HOMEWORK HELPERS

everything is awesome

EDUCATION SERIES

PARTY GUIDE

School holiday TIPS

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contents ISSUE NO. 1 JUL 2015

HELLO

06 #Trending 08 Multiple Choice

Feature Story 11 Ausmumpreneur 12 Life as a FIFO 15 Wills & Estate

Hello and welcome to the very first edition of PakMag Australia.

17 Choosing a School

For those who don’t know me, Hi! My name is Bree James and I am a proud mum of two boys aged 4 and 6. “Pakmag” stands for “Parents and Kids Magazine” and we have been in operation for over 8 years in North Queensland as a very popular printed magazine. We have a wonderful team of mums that work in our parent friendly company and we are so excited to bring this magazine to all parents around Australia.

21 Homework Helper

Education Series 2015

We are often encouraged to start in other regional markets in Australia, so this is our first step - we really hope you like it!

If you love the magazine, and would love for us to start a printed edition in your location, drop us a line on The PakMag Australia Facebook page and hashtag #IwantPakmag and your location, or send an email to australia@pakmag.com.au Until next time, be safe during the school holidays, enjoy the extra time with your family and don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag.

25 Nursery Rhymes

Bump & Bub 28 Kids in the Kitchen 29 Recipe Ideas 30 Lego Party Ideas

Party Guide 32 Teenagers Retreat

Home 37 Health 38 Well Being

Bree x

40 67 Ways to Enjoy School Holidays 44 Travel Ideas - Club Med

Bree James / PAKMAG Publisher

46 Bedarra Beach House 48 Time tor a Laugh

Jokes Page

Pakmag p 4053 3331 F 4053 3350 E admin@pakmag.com.au PO BOX 7433 Cairns QLD 4870 FB www.facebook.com/PakmagAustralia T #pakmag 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.

Dashing Designer Sara

Events Extraordinaire Kelly

Darling Designer Clare

Design Queen Emma

Grand Poobah Bree

Sales Guru Angelina

Admin Ace Janelle

Sales Star Cherie

Sales Golden Girl Tammy

Content Captain Jenna

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

5

s ' t a h WENDING TR

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Suitable for ages 4 and up with 2-4 players. Available at BIG W, Target, Myer, David Jones, Mr Toys & leading toy retailers.

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

TRENDING

pakmag

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Seasoned bare cast iron is widely recognised as the healthiest cooking option, and has seen a huge resurgence in recent years in the USA, where savvy cooks are rejecting synthetic nonstick coatings with their health concerns and regular disposal. Sustainable AUSfonte pans are multi-generation durable and their nonstick seasoning is forever renewable.

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The philosophy of BARE Movement is to appeal to the health conscious individual. They understand the importance of balance and wellness and have created a movement in hair care that delivers a product allowing you to enjoy the unique, luxurious salon experience from your own home.

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RRP $35.00 web www.as-dew.com Water is vital for your body’s cell growth and division and maintaining a healthy level of hydration is very important. As DeW Water bottle helps in enhancing water with its alkalising, mineralising, purifying and vitalising properties. With a goal to not only deliver affordable and conveniently portable high quality water, As DeW water tastes great and energises the body. The water is alkalized to a pH level that annihilates illness from our body. Besides that, it releases vital minerals such as calcium, silicon and iron into the water while eliminating the level of harmful elements such as chlorine, arsenic and lead.

To order, please visit www.as-dew.com

Circle Of Life Pendant RRP $75.00 web www.stampedwithlove.com.au The Circle Of Life Pendant is a timeless and classic piece. It denotes the meaning of having no beginning and no end; life and love will go on forever. This elegantly designed pendant makes a thoughtful and loving gift. The circle itself represents always embracing and relishing every moment and is a symbol commonly used to represent never ending love which makes it perfect for giving to a loved one. It represents the simplest and perhaps most comforting notion - 'life is a circle and can be embraced whatever stage you’re at.'

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

7

Multiple Choice

By Jenna Gallina

Can you really boost your chances of having more than one?

DID YOU KNOW? • The most popular twin baby names in 2014 were Ella and Emma, Olivia and Sophia, Madison and Mason, Ethan and Emma, Jacob and Joshua and Ethan and Evan.

• Some favourite celebrities are actually twins – Scarlett Johansson has a twin brother named Hunter, Gisele Bundchen has a twin sister, Patricia, Vin Diesel has a twin brother named Paul Vincent and Ashton Kutcher has a twin brother, Michael.

• Nigeria has the highest rates of multiples with more identical twins than fraternal, while China has one of the lowest with multiple births occurring one in 300 births.

• Nearly half of twins invent their own languages. This “secret language of twins” is known as ideoglossia. And watching them communicate in secret twin baby speak has got to be one of the sweetest things in the world!

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You may have heard that if you have twins in the family, you have a better chance of having multiples yourself. But is there any truth to this?

Apparently, there is! In fact, what you eat, how you conceive and even how tall you are may increase your chances of having more than one.

According to the Australian Multiple Birth Association, twins represent 2 per cent of the total Australian population while triplets (and higher order multiples) make up .02 per cent. So what factors play a role in having multiples?

Your age Fertility research indicates that twin pregnancies are more common in mothers who are over 35 years of age.

Your genes Yes, twins do run in the family, but only fraternal twins. Identical twins can occur in any family. What’s the difference? Fraternal twins develop when two separate eggs are fertilised and implant in the uterus. Identical twins form when a single fertilised egg splits into two genetically identical parts.

Your conception method Yes, it is true that having fertility assistance such as in-vitro fertilisation can result in more than one egg being released, but this certainly isn’t the case for all mums of multiples.

Your choice of contraception On the pill or just stopped taking it?

Chances are, you could be seeing more than one heartbeat at that first ultrasound.

Your weaning approach Breastfeeding an older baby or toddler has said to increase your chance of having twins due to the extra prolactin produced when feeding a child.

Your diet Some studies suggest that women who eat a lot of dairy are more likely to carry twins. Other foods on the multiple meal plan? Sweet potatoes, oysters and green leafy vegetables.

Your height and weight There have even been studies that suggest taller women tend to conceive more twins as well as women with a BMI greater than 30.

Go figure.

FEATURE

pakmag

Meet our Multiple Mums

Double (or triple) the love for these local mums who share what life is really like with two (or three) of a kind.

Anita Hodgkison Who are you mummy to and how old are they? Thomas, who is nearly five, and three year old fraternal twin girls, Tennielle and Stephanie.

Annette Jarrett Who are you mummy to and how old are they? Alex and Cameron, who are five years old.

Jenny Honeyball Who are you mummy to and how old are they? Lily, who is 10 and my little trio are Jessica, Jake and Ben who are seven years old.

Any advice for parents expecting multiples? Have a great support network, communicate with your partner, have frozen meals and pick a routine that works for you.

What has been the most memorable moment so far?

Looking into their crib on the day after they were born and seeing one of them kissing the forehead of the other.

Describe life with twins in three words: Love, hectic and routine.

Describe life with twins in three words: Crazy, hectic and amazing.

Describe life with triplets in three words: Fun, busy and rewarding.

What’s something you wish people without multiples would understand: If you see a mum or dad with multiples sometimes ask if they need a hand because we do not always ask.

What’s something you wish people without multiples would understand: Having two children close together is NOT the same as having twins - you still got a break in between.

What’s something you wish people without multiples would understand: Parents with multiples are blessed.

weight than a woman carrying just one. After all, you are carrying an extra placenta, extra amniotic fluid and extra maternal body fluid, not to mention the extra little bundle of joy!

Try not to focus on the extra weight gain – your body is doing exactly what it needs to do.

Multiple Birth Association club while you are still pregnant. The AMBA has grown to a membership of over 3,500 families Australia-wide, ranging from expectant parents to parents of adult multiples over the past 40 years. All mums who sign up will get a free box of Huggies nappies (that’s your first box down…only 2000 more to buy!)

Mum to Multiples?

Yes, finding out you are carrying two or more little babies can be overwhelming. But all mums to multiples would agree that raising twins or triplets comes with a plethora of positives – your child will have a playmate for life, you are in for double the fun and you get to experience twice (or triple) the cuddles, kisses and “I Love You Mummy’s.”

What more could you want?

Regardless of whether you are having one or three, motherhood comes with plenty of ups and downs. And multiple birth parents are not immune to feelings of stress and exhaustion.

To fully enjoy this incredible time in your life, the Australian Multiple Birth Association shares these tips to help all parents prepare for life with more than one: Just grow with it You can certainly expect to gain more

Cherish every moment The aching back, the big belly, the constant nausea – yes, it can be unbearable, but remember that you are about to undertake the greatest journey of your life. And when you have your little babies in your arms, you will know it was worth every single stretchmark.

Accept help when you can Even superheros have sidekicks. Be sure to accept offers to babysit, to bring over meals, to change nappies.

This is the secret to being a super mum- know your limits.

Join forces with multiple mums Connect with your local Australian

What has been the most memorable moment so far?

I think the best was holding all of them in my arms for the first time, knowing they were all healthy.

You can find your nearest AMBA club using AMBA's club finder www.amba.org.au/clubfinder Talking to other parents of multiples can make a massive difference to your mental health and coping skills.

Plus, it is always great to share a laugh with other mums who are up all night with two unsettled newborns, or cleaning two number threes simultaneously (ever changed a number six nappy?)

After all, laughter is the best medicine for sleep deprivation. And coffee.

Coffee works too.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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On the Up

Mumpreneurs are the fastest growing sector of the Australian economy. Bree James reports on the rise of the ultimate jugglers who want to have it all.

‘Mumpreneur’ is the term used to describe mums who also want to fulfil their potential as an entrepreneur. In the years since PakMag launched we’ve seen an explosion in the number of local businesses, owned by mums, who have approached us for support. These women are typically successful, confident and innovative entrepreneurs who choose to be self-employed in their own business while also caring for their children and families. They are often driven to become their own bosses by the desire for their work life to be more creative and flexible around their family life.

Two of these mumpreneurs are Peace Mitchell and Katy Garner. They launched their own book in June 2009, What I Wish I Knew Before I Became a Mother, a collection of heart-warming and uplifting tips and advice that they wrote and illustrated together based on the lessons learnt as new mothers. By November they had also become editors of the online networking community, ‘AusMumpreneur’, Australia’s leading online community for mumpreneurs with more than 32,000 subscribers Australia wide.

AusMumpreneur provides a safe and supportive environment for women in online businesses to get together and share information, network and gain support. The site provides members with relevant information and opportunities to interact and socialise with other mums across Australia. These are professional women who value their time with their children but are also highly ambitious and want to be successful as businesswomen. They believe that when it comes to success in career and in family you can have it all.

Peace and Katy are also in the process of organising the next AusMumpreneur Awards to be held in Melbourne on the 4th and 5th of September. Their goal is to provide even more opportunities for women from all over Australia to come together to gain new skills, connect with fellow Mumpreneurs, be inspired by leading business experts and celebrate the success of the best and brightest in the industry.

The 2015 St George Banking AusMumpreneur Awards will be a weekend of motivation, inspiration, networking and celebration.

It includes workshops with leading business experts to provide Mums in business with the skills to move their business to the next level and remain motivated, balanced and organised. Top the weekend off with the always-glamourous AusMumpreneur Awards Gala Night, which connects mumpreneurs from around Australia in a comfortable and professional environment.

The AusMumpreneur Awards recognise those achieving success in areas such as business excellence, digital technology, product development, services and innovation in both online and bricks and mortar businesses from around Australia.

Business owners can either nominate themselves or someone they know for each of the categories.

For more information on the AusMumpreneur Awards visit www.ausmumpreneur.com or email hello@ausmumpreneur.com

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

11

FIFOFamilies

Through the height of Australia’s mining boom the Fly-In, Fly-Out lifestyle has been glamorised and something of an aspiration for a generation of young Australians - a means through which to make some great money fast and set their families up.

However, the FIFO way of life is not always as it seems, often leaving mums bearing the brunt of the day to day pressures of family life and dads feeling isolated from their partners and children.

FIFO families can often have the best - and worst - of both worlds.

Suzie's husband's work sees him Fly-Out to the Queensland/Northern Territory border. She is a mum of two girls and explains that one of the hardest parts of having him away for extended periods of time is the loneliness, especially in the evenings.

“It’s really hard to keep myself busy, once the girls have gone to bed, I find myself with nothing to do and that’s one of the worst things.”

She said after living the lifestyle for so

long, she is now at the point where she is hoping for a change sooner rather than later.

Suzie said something she regularly hears whenever she mentions the challenges of her family’s lifestyle is that they chose it, they get big money and therefore they should just deal with it.

“Yes it has been good to us, we’ve been able to put our girls in private school and they do things like dance after school which we may not have been able to do (if not for FIFO work),” she said.

you’re sick and you’re the only one there without a break. It’s tough.”

The big plus side however is when her husband is home, he is able to be there 100 per cent for the girls and be present - which she said other dads who work regular day jobs may not have the opportunity to do.

“When he is home, my husband is able to take the kids to school, pick them up, he’s at their dance performances - he’s everywhere and doing everything with them during that time when he’s at home.”

“What people don’t see though is how hard it is to manage on your own, without family support, through pregnancy and when your children are young, when they are sick and

“In terms of quality time with him, we probably get more than most regular families.”

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

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FIFO FAMILIES

Maree and Jason Galeano kids: Zahra & Maya Tell us about your family: Jason and I have two daughters, Zahra and Maya and we live in Gordonvale.

Jason has been a FIFO for 6.5 years and travels from Cairns to Daunia Mine in Moranbah. I'm a stay-at-home Mum who does supply teaching at a local primary school.

The positives of FIFO? The high income helps pay our mortgage quickly and provides a comfortable lifestyle. Jason's week on/week off roster allows our family to be at home together for 6 months of the year and to holiday together. He has great working conditions - covering airfares and accommodation, plus camp facilities such as a gym, wet mess and a swimming pool.

The negatives of FIFO? Missing special family occasions would be the biggest one, but we are provided with events like 'Christmas Mine Day' where worker's families are flown in to share a buffet lunch and have a site tour. Being alone at night for both the FIFO and family is also tough, plus when Jason is not working the only diversions at camp are to drink, go to the gym or sit in his room.

The misconceptions about FIFO? That some FIFO’s spend too much time away from family, but over the year they spend just as much (if not more) with their family. The other misconception is that most marriages don't last. It certainly isn't easy but if you appreciate the sacrifices each other are making to achieve your goals, your marriage can remain strong.

Tips for other families? There are positives and negatives but if you set goals and don't let money dictate, a FIFO lifestyle can provide great benefits for your family.

Alisyn & Gordon Rose Kids: Isabella, Brigitte & Luke Tell us about your family: Gordon is an SMP Supervisor on a construction project in Pilbara WA. He works 21 days away and is home for 7 days.

I am a stay at home mum in Townsville looking after our 3 active children; Isabella 6, Brigitte 4 and Luke is 1½.

The positives of FIFO? From a SAHM point of view I think I have been given an opportunity to build a relationship with my children which is diverse as I am both mum and dad whilst my husband is away. It has meant our children are more empowered as I give them more responsibilities within the family.

The negatives of FIFO? Gordon misses many milestones, and special family time. Watching my youngest growing up talking to dad through the computer and having the children readjusting to Dad every break and then having to deal with the varied emotions that follow the sad “goodbye” is also really tough.

pakmag

Dawn and Shaun Goodman kids: Poppy & Gus Tell us about your family: Shaun works fulltime for Rio-Tinto and I am a fulltime teacher at St Anne’s Catholic School. Our children are Poppy (Grade 1) and Gus (Kindergarten).

We live in Sarina. Shaun has been a Drive-in/Drive-out (DIDO) worker for 2.5 years and travels to Emerald.

The positives of DIDO? Shaun has up to five days off in a row to spend with the children and gets to help out in Poppy’s classroom.

Another positive would be that we have more educational and sporting opportunities for our children. By not living in a mining town it means we're only 30 minutes from medical specialists and have halved our grocery bill.

The misconceptions about FIFO? That we have the best lifestyle, with an endless money tree.

That everything is paid for.

The negatives of DIDO? Missing Shaun when he's away and having less support with daily tasks. He also misses birthdays, special events and family activities a lot. The most challenging however, is no family network when you need support through things like sickness. There are also higher costs for vehicle wear and tear and fuel with the four hour drive to-and-fro.

Tips for other families? Take each day as it comes, never make promises that you can't keep and be open and honest.

Tips for other families? If possible live close to supportive family and friends. Make time to talk every day and to say "I love you".

Tips for helping kids understand?

Be open with them and never brush the emotions off. Each cycle will bring something new out, encourage them to talk to you or one another.

My kids love watching the plane take off down the runway and basically seeing it until they can't see it anymore. It's their way to say goodbye. One of my children have a special goodbye they do with dad every day until the last night before he comes home, and we don't hear it again until his first night away.

Basically communication is the key.

There is a great book that I have personally found helpful; “Mining Families Rock" by mining mum Alicia Ranford, psychologist Angie Willcocks and journalist Lainie Anderson and the "Survival Guide for Mining Families" by Alicia Ranford.

Tips for helping kids understand?

Let children Skype or FaceTime.

If possible, visit the site to see where Dad works at some point. Organise a family day on the weekend Dad comes home to make the time he is home special.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

13

Wills and Estate

It’s something that no mum or dad wants to consider but ultimately part of being a parent is considering - and planning for - what could happen to your family in the event of your death.

Estate planning is the process by which an individual or family arranges for the transfer of assets after death.

If you have young children, you may have considered who you would like to take care of them in the event you and your spouse (or partner) die before they reach adulthood. This is known as guardianship and can be detailed as part of a Will.

A Will is a legal document that states, amongst other things, how the deceased person's belongings are to be distributed after their death. The Executor of the Will is responsible for distributing the person's assets to the people named in the Will. This happens after any debts are paid.

If the person has not left a Will, the estate is shared under a formula set by law.

With family structures now more complex than ever, the need to ensure your affairs are in good order and reflect your changing family and asset situation is crucial. Higher divorce rates, blended families and de-facto relationships increase the number of potential claimants and create scope for conflict.

Whenever a death occurs it is a trying and emotional time. Courts are increasingly dealing with disputes that individuals may never have expected - after all, we all cross our fingers and hope the ‘It won’t happen to me’ rule will apply.

However, the volatile mix of family, emotion and money can affect even the closest of families in the event of an unexpected death.

Guardianship Appointing a guardian in your Will

may assist to avoid disputes among family members as your intentions will be made clear, however it is worth keeping in mind that it is not binding and the Family Court still has overriding powers to appoint or remove a guardian should it be in the best interest of the child. It is therefore worthwhile taking the time to discuss your intentions with family and friends when naming a guardian in your Will and considering vital factors regarding your nomination such as : • Is the person in question prepared to accept the long-term responsibility of becoming your child or children’s legal guardian?

• Are they of a similar age to you?

• Do they understand your views on how you wish your child/children to be raised?

• How will you provide financially in your Will for the welfare, education and advancement of your child/ children and who will manage these finances in the best interests of your child/children?

• Would your children have to be relocated or would they be able to stay in the family home?

so it should be someone who you trust and are confident can handle the role.

Estate planning is an area of law that appears simple but is not, even for people with modest assets.

For those with complex estates, there is an increased risk of things going awry. Assets that are not held personally or are not dealt with by one's Will - particularly trusts, superannuation, insurance and joint holdings - will require special consideration to ensure they are distributed as intended.

While the most basic of Estate Plans will consider your dependents in the event of your death, a comprehensive plan would also include current lifestyle requirements, retirement plans, business arrangements, your tax position and even take into account any possible future events such as divorce, health scares or family disputes as well as ensuring assets go exactly where you wish them to go.

Appointing an Executor The executor or administrator is responsible for administering the deceased estate pursuant to legal requirements and in accordance with the deceased's wishes. Beneficiaries are those people who share in the estate and are usually named in the will – if no Will exists, they are usually the deceased person's next of kin.

Planning your estate Will offer peace of mind that your loved ones will be taken care of in the event of your death. As parents we would never dream of leaving our children’s futures in the hands of family members without having a say, however that may be what many of us are inadvertently doing by not thinking about our Estates.

The executor effectively steps into the shoes of the deceased person and winds up their personal affairs

For advice and information on how to create a legal will, visit www.moneysmart.gov.au

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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2015 Education Series

Choosing a School

Choosing a school for your child ranks up there with one of the most important decisions you will make in parenthood. Complicating the process is the barrage of information and research about the different models of education and facilities offered to students - and of course, opinions of family and friends who may have a different take on the matter to you.

The first factor to consider is what type of schooling may be suited to your child and your family situation.

In Australia there are currently around 9,400 schools, including primary, secondary, combined and special schools. 71 per cent of these schools are government funded State Schools while 18 per cent are Catholic Schools. 11 per cent are Independent Schools. Many parents take into account their own education when considering where to send their children - or their aspirations for their children to receive a better education than they may have had themselves.

There are three sectors in Australian education: The State/Government sector and the Catholic systemic sector both are run by centralised administrations. The third and smaller sector is the Independent (or private) sector. Independent schools are stand alone not for profit entities normally governed by a school council or board of governors. Depending on your situation there other choices that could be considered including homeschooling, distance education, and boarding schools (most of which are Independent).

Public School All eligible students are entitled to enrol at their closest appropriate state school. Some primary and secondary state schools may have

reached their enrolment capacity and have an enrolment management plan in place which means students may not be entitled to enrol unless they live within the local catchment area, or, for students from outside the local catchment area, have met the relevant eligibility criteria. For further information about enrolling in a state school and catchment zones, visit your state’s education.gov.au website or contact your local school.

Independent Public School The Independent Public School model is a relatively new concept which provides Government schools with greater autonomy in decision making and aims to cut red tape through the removal of management layers to improve outcomes for students.

While still being controlled by the Education Department, Independent Public Schools have greater freedom to shape their own strategic directions and make decisions which directly benefit students. They also have the ability to work directly with local businesses, industry and community organisations to form unique and innovative partnerships and sponsorships, providing extra support for students, schools and the local community.

schools often have an emphasis on order and discipline, and a strong ethos, standards and values that underpin the conduct of the school. A private education will cost more than that of a Catholic school or a Government school, so it is important to consider all fees and levies required for all education levels, not just the one your child is commencing. You can also expect to pay an application fee when making an application for enrolment. www.privateschoolsdirectory.com.au Catholic Schools Enrolling in a Catholic School should be done directly through the school involved. While under the control of the Catholic diocese, Catholic systemic schools enjoy a degree of autonomy similar to that being given to some State schools. Catholic education comes at a cost that is higher than the State but frequently lower than a private school.

Schools also have greater flexibility to tailor their curriculum to directly suit the needs of their students. This tailor-made approach means students have the potential to benefit from opportunities such as International Baccalaureate, extracurricular and gateway programs or access to centres of excellence.

Homeschooling Parents are also able to register for home education where parents develop or adapt their own education program for their child or children.

The parent, or a teacher engaged or employed by the parent becomes the educator of the child. In the homeschooling model, the educator or parent must plan, implement and evaluate the child's learning from one year to the next. The parent whose name appears on the application form is then legally responsible for ensuring that their child receives a high quality education, irrespective of whoever else may assist with the child's education.

Private School Enrolling in an Independent School should be done directly through the institution which may have set eligibility criteria in place. Private

When choosing to home educate, parents must accept responsibility for planning, implementing and evaluating their child's learning program. Parents who choose to

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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2015 Education Series

home educate provide a suitable learning environment within the family home. They also provide the resources necessary to support their child's individually tailored program. A parent choosing this educational option is required to provide a high quality education for their child. There are no fees associated with the registration of a child for home education.

Distance Education Distance education may be a suitable education model for those students who are unable to attend an education institution due to living remotely or for other reasons where travelling outside of the home may be difficult. Distance education has also become a popular education model for tertiary studies as it enables students to balance study with other areas of their lives such as paid employment and family responsibilities.

Top Tips when selecting a school: • Review the school’s website, newsletters, prospectus and annual report which may give you further information about the school and its activities.

• It may be helpful to talk to other parents who have children at the school you are considering to get their feedback.

• Ensure you have a thorough understanding of the school hours, fees and levies, the enrolment process, uniform policy, homework and assignment expectations before making a final decision.

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In the case of child students, a parent or guardian is able to enrol their child in a school of distance education and a school program is provided by that school for the child. Teachers are available to help monitor the child's learning and a teacher from the school reports on the child (as in mainstream schools). The parent becomes the supervisor or home tutor to the child within their home. There are state schools and accredited non-state schools that offer distance education.

Boarding Schools There are many reasons a family may choose to have children live away from home for their education including: • Geographic Isolation: Families who live in remote areas where schools are not easily accessible may choose to send their children to boarding schools.

• Parents' Work Schedule: Parents who work overseas or who travel frequently and for extended periods have the potential to disrupt their child's schooling, so sending the child to a boarding school provides stability.

• Learning Difficulties: There are young people whose interests are best met in a specialist setting rather than at a nearby school.

• Family Tradition: Families may have sent their children to boarding schools over several generations, which makes boarding a familiar and attractive option.

Same-sex boys' boarding schools and girls' boarding schools can provide gender specific learning techniques and encourage selfmotivated and pro-active students.

Co-educational boarding schools can assist in the development of social skills, self-assurance and mutual

respect, along with preparation for the interactions of adult life.

Exchange

Student exchange programs provide cultural and educational benefits to both students and the school community. It is well recognised that exchange programs provide a broad educational experience for students and increase international and cultural understanding among young people.

A secondary student exchange program is a reciprocal program whereby Australian students attend high school and enrol in a full time school program in another country for a minimum period of time.

After considering the education

model you may wish to pursue for your child there are various other factors to consider including:

• Location and proximity to your home - this will be important if you would like your children to walk to and from school. Is there a public or private bus transport service or will you have to drive them?

• Does the school have dedicated services if your child has a special need? What sort of programs or specialist staff are available to assist your child?

• Do the ethics and morals of the school fit with your personal outlook and that of your family?

• Sports and extracurricular programs.

Does your child have a particular talent or love of sport or music, for example? Will this be nurtured at your school of choice?

• Daycare/Outside School Hours Care.

If you have younger children who require daycare, or if you work full time and your children require outside school hours care, a dedicated care facility on site at the school may be valuable.

• The size of the school and class sizes and the technologies and amenities your child will have access to.

The Department of Education and Training has an online directory which lists all state and non-state schools in Queensland and provides links to school websites. It's a useful starting point to help identify the schools in your area. Visit www.education.gov. au directory to get started.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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EDUCATION SERIES

Is Homework AN

pakmag

Important Component to Your

Child’s learning?

All homework and no play makes children go crazy. Mums suspect it, children know it. Even some teachers and studies confirm that too much homework can be doing your children more harm than good.

The argument regarding the importance of homework continues to make the rounds in most households and schools. So how much is too much? And what role does it play in your children’s development at school?

The homework war Yes, homework can be beneficial to children. Common arguments for homework are that it promotes self-discipline, improves study skills and work habits, helps students be responsible and prepares them for the “real world”.

2015 Education Series

It can also help bridge the gap between learning at home and learning at school and bring parents up to speed with the progress of their children.

However, homework can also be seen as irrelevant as it is not a direct reflection of the learning activities undertaken at school.

A recent inquiry from the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development found strong evidence that homework had almost no academic benefit to primary-school students, although it may help them prepare for secondary school.

How to achieve the homework, life balance Although many mums may not agree with the homework that their children are receiving, the act of doing homework promotes lifelong skills that transcend into excellent study habits.

Children will develop an understanding that learning is not only important at school, but also valued at home.

Homework can help our children build on skills such as time management, organisation, preparation, responsibility and communication.

These are the lifelong skills that we want all children to be confident with.

Doing school work at home can be incredibly valuable but it needs to be balanced. After a six hour day at school, most kids will want to come home and relax. Too much homework can cause children to resent school and worst of all, learning in general.

Finding that perfect balance between school work and homework is never easy and it will vary depending on the child.

But, as a general guideline, how much homework is appropriate?

The “10 minute rule” Every state has different recommendations on homework and some schools across the nation have even introduced the homework opt out program where parents can choose to opt out of homework completely or cater the amount they would like their children to receive each day.

All states have a state school homework policy, which recognises that the setting of homework must take into account the need for children to have a balanced lifestyle.

Some schools adapt the “10 minute rule” which recommends kids spend about 10 minutes per school night every year they’re in school. So a year one student would be doing 50 minutes a week while a year six student would be doing one hour a day or five hours per week.

Finding your child’s learning curve The average fifteen-year-old student in Australia spends around six hours a week on homework with private school students taking home an average of two hours a week more homework that state school students.

This may seem like too much or it may seem like not enough when compared to other countries, such as China, where the average amount of time spent on homework per week exceeds 13 hours.

The bottom line? The amount of homework your child does should be something that the student, parents and teachers negotiate together.

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2015 Education Series

Homework Helpers LessonBuzz App

Study Smart Tips and Tricks to Try at Home Homework should be balanced with other purposeful activities. If you’re having trouble convincing your child to do homework, try these tips:

Newly-designed LessonBuzz targets common learning needs and encourages individualised development in areas such as knowledge, writing, comprehension and literacy skills, designed for children aged four to thirteen.

The LessonBuzz Kindy App and Literacy App are now available through the Apple App Store.

Cost $4.99 Find it www.lessonbuzz.com.au

Membo Daily Task Reminder

win

Sneak learning into everyday life Let’s face it – the stories and activities selected as homework are not going to interest everyone. Rather than stick to the homework reading list, read something your children would enjoy, even if it’s a comic book one night and his school reader the night after.

Your daughter may not be too interested in writing her spelling words but she may be more inclined to do them if she can write a story about princesses after.

Practice communication and reflection The best way to do this? By sitting together every night and having a conversation around the dinner table.

Talk about your day. Talk about something funny that happened, something sad that happened, something frustrating that happened.

No text book required.

Membo is a funky and colourful magnetic daily reminder tool that flips over to let everyone know if a job has been done yet. Not only is it great as a reward system for homework, but also for other daily tasks, such as feeding the fish and watering the plants.

Cost $24.95 Find it www.dreamfarm.com/membo ENTER to win at www.pakmag.com.au

Mark-My-Time Digital Bookmark

Learn with them Play Go Fish but create your own using sight words. Practice doing your timetables as a family, going around in a circle and seeing how fast you can do it together. Make learning a team effort.

Offer a reward I’m not ashamed to admit that we are big fans of bribes in my house.

It works. Okay. The end.

By Jenna Gallina

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How cool are these? Reading homework just got more fun to monitor with this all-in-one digital clock, timer and bookmark. Make sure your children are getting their twenty minutes of reading each day with Mark-My-Time. There are several funky colours to choose from and the battery is included.

Cost $9.00 Find it www.urbanbaby.com.au/Mark-My-Time-Digital-Bookmark

Bump & Bub Anything But Baa Baa Boring!

Story Julie Sexton, Speech Pathologist at TalkNQ Speech Pathology

Research indicates that children who can accurately recite eight nursery rhymes by age four are usually in the top band of readers and spellers by year three. Isn’t it time you re-visited the classics with your kids?

When babies are very young, in order for them to learn from Mum or Dad they need to share the same interests as Mum or Dad. Nursery rhymes, with their natural rhythm and finger movements, provide a natural platform for parents to interact with their young children strengthening the child’s social and emotional development.

Benefits to rhyme Nursery rhymes have a multi-faceted influence on important development skills. Studies confirm that nursery rhymes can encourage: • Imitation and Understanding Young children will typically imitate fine motor skills before imitating words. Singing nursery rhymes with finger movements can help them to engage with you and imitate your movements.

• Auditory Memory Development The ability to retain and recall words and sentences is important for learning and the repetition in nursery rhymes provides a suitable first stepping stone.

• Literacy Development Nursery rhymes support early literacy development because

they build on children’s vocabulary which is a major component in reading success.

• Phonological Awareness The awareness of sounds in words, which is another building block for reading and writing skills, is a tricky one for children to learn. Nursery rhymes also expose children to natural rhythm and place emphasis on key words which fosters the foundation for reading fluency at primary school.

Most parents include a bedtime story as part of their child’s night time routine. Spend an extra minute or two in their bedroom and let them choose a couple of rhymes each night.

Not only are nursery rhymes beneficial to your children’s speech development, but they also offer a beautiful and relaxing bonding experience before bed. Both you and your children will start looking forward to finishing a busy day with a quiet rhyme.

Plus, there is nothing quite like ending the day with “Open, Shut Them” looping around in your head.

If you have any concerns about your child’s early communication development, it is best to seek help early rather than taking a “wait and see” approach. A speech pathologist can assist in their early development.

Encouraging Your Child to Learn Nursery Rhymes • Start by using short nursery rhymes that include simple finger movements such as “Twinkle Twinkle” or “Incy Wincy Spider”.

• Make a Nursery Rhyme Box. Paint and decorate a cardboard box with your children, then collect items that represent each nursery rhyme. Find farm animals for “Old McDonald,” stars for “Twinkle, Twinkle,” a stuffed bunny for “Peter Rabbit.” Then take turns picking out of the box and singing the rhyme that is selected.

• Make up fun over-the-top actions with nursery rhymes.

For example when reciting “Humpty Dumpty” pretend to fall down on the bed and give your child deep hugs as you do it - a sure way to keep them interested and wanting more repetition.

• Clap out each beat in the nursery rhyme to further emphasise the natural rhythm of the song.

• Find a template of your child’s favourite nursery rhyme and then sing the nursery rhyme as they colour it in or paint it.

• Buy puzzles or games that include nursery rhyme characters and sing the nursery rhyme for each piece of the puzzle or game.

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25

p m u Bnd BUB a

Easiyo Yoghurt RRP $24.99 web

www.easiyo.com

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Boon Inc OnTray

RRP $59.95 pack web www.booninc.com

RRP $12.00 web www.thanksmum.com.au Make your shopping experience more enjoyable, by placing some healthy snacks or a toy to keep your little one busy in the OnTray.

OnTray is a BPA free, plastic container that easily attaches to your shopping trolley handle and to some prams. Effortless attachment to the shopping trolley handle frees you up for other tasks.

Need a toy-free tub? Hop to it. Kids enjoy chaos. Mums do not. So when it's time to round up the bath toys leave it to this lean, mean gobbling machine. The new and improved FROG POD includes an extra-large scoop so you can store and organise even more stuff. Adhesive strips make it easy to mount on the wall and air holes allow toys to dry, reducing mould and mildew build-up on toys. Ribbit!

Soft sole shoes RRP $28.95-$34.95 web www.tiptoeandco.com.au Tiptoe & Co sell gorgeous baby shoes crafted from high quality leather in a range of cute, funky and quirky styles. The range includes sneaker, sandal, mary jane and boots styles, so you are bound to find a pair or three to suit your little boy or girl. With most styles under $30 they are a fantastic affordable option for that first pair of shoes for your new walker, and great for confident walkers too.

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

BUMP & BUB

pakmag

Attipas Shoes RRP $29.95 web www.attipas.com.au Attipas are so excited to introduce their new A/W range, including two cute styles: Attibebe, with pastel tones and girly patterns; and Robot, with darker soles and robot print. Priced at just $29.95, these ergonomic toddler shoes are award-winning and are endorsed by Australian podiatrists. Suitable from 0-3 years, they come in four sizes. As light as a sock but more supportive than a shoe, Attipas are based on 7 years of research and development. Lightweight, flexible, convenient, breathable, safe, non toxic, Attipas shoes are ‘Walking Science’.

NEW Mum leggings RRP $30.00 web www.lailaandspot.com.au

BabyPlus Prenatal Education System RRP $199.00 web www.brainychild.com.au Give your baby a headstart with the BabyPlus Prenatal Education System. First time in Australia, this new product promotes baby's brain development while in the womb. The award winning BabyPlus Prenatal Education System offers parents the opportunity to give their baby a head start on early learning.

Laila & Spot have designed a range of beautiful clothing for new mums, included in their range are the perfect leggings! Made from soft natural viscose, these leggings ensure your skin breathes easily so you can wear them for long periods of time. The waist is constructed with great care for new mums - no elastic through the front, which means c-section scars are not left feeling uncomfortable. The elastic just sits through the back, so you can be assured your leggings won't fall off!

Fabric: Viscose Spandex. Size Guide: S-8-10; M-12-14; L-14-16/18

Love To Dream Swaddle UP RRP $44.95 web www.lovetodream.com.au In winter we want to feel warm and we want our babies to feel snug and comfortable when they are sleeping, without the need to add loose blankets over their swaddle.

Swaddle UP Winter Warm™ has a built in cosy bamboo blanket quilted into the front panel of the garment covering your baby’s chest and adding warmth. The luxuriously soft bamboo filling will keep your baby warm when the weather is cold and retains the same unique design as the Swaddle UP Original. The “wings” of the garment are still made from 360 degree stretch material to allow baby access to their hands for self-soothing.

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s d i K

n e h c t i k e in th

3 ingredient SCONES

AMOUNT: 12

4 ingredient CUPCAKES

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

3 Cups S/R Flour 1 Cup Cream 1 Cup Lemonade

1 cup Light Thickened Cream 1 cup Caster Sugar 3 Eggs, lightly beaten 1 1/2 cups Self Raising Flour

HOW TO MAKE 1. Heat oven to 180.

2. Mix all ingredients till combined 3. Place mix on floured bench and mould into a square about an inch thick.

4. Cut out scones with a small circled glass into equal sizes.

5. Line a tray and put the 12 scones right next to each other. Bake for 12-15 minutes on 180.

Cool and serve with Jam and whipped cream.

4 ingredient MILO BALLS

AMOUNT: 20

AMOUNT: 12

HOW TO MAKE 1. Preheat the oven to 180 degree Celsius.

2. Place 12 cupcake liners in a muffin tray.

3. Put 1 cup Light Thickened Cream, 1 cup Caster Sugar and 3 lightly beaten Eggs in a large mixing bowl, whisk the mixture until smooth.

4. Add 1 1/2 cups Self Raising Flour gradually into the cream mixture, continue to whisk until the batter thickens.

Fill cupcake liners and bake for 18 minutes. Decorate!

Great for little helping hands

INGREDIENTS 1 can sweetened condensed milk 2 tablespoons Milo 1 packet of Arrowroot biscuits Desiccated coconut, to coat

HOW TO MAKE 1. Crush Arrowroot biscuits in a food processor, blender (or with your hands) 2. Mix Milo, crushed biscuits and condensed milk into a bowl and cover bowl with Clingwrap and refrigerate for half an hour 3. From the mixture, roll into 20 bite-sized balls 4. Roll each ball in desiccated coconut 5. Eat immediately, refrigerate until ready to serve or freeze for a delicious bite-snack after school snack

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

e p i c e Rideas to try FOOD

pakmag

Recipe thanks to: bake play smile

CHOC SNICKERS SLICE INGREDIENTS 1 packet plain, sweet biscuits ž tin sweetened condensed milk 100g butter 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 3 x 55g bars Snickers chocolate bars Ÿ cup roasted peanuts 150g milk

HOW TO MAKE 1. Roughly crush the biscuits in a food processor and then pour into a mixing bowl.

2. Sift the cocoa powder onto the biscuit crumbs.

3. Melt butter and condensed milk in a saucepan over very low heat, until smooth. Then pour warm mixture onto the biscuits and mix well.

4. Add the roughly chopped Snickers bars and roasted peanuts. Mix well. Spread mixture into a baking paper lined slice pan.

5. Melt the chocolate in the microwave on low (stirring regularly) and pour over the cooled slice. Working quickly, spread the chocolate evenly over the slice.

6. Put into the fridge until just set (tacky to the touch but not hard). Take out of the fridge and slice into squares.

AMOUNT: 16

Product

Recipe thanks to: crazy for crust

WHITE CHOC PEANUT BUTTER SLICE INGREDIENTS 8 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 cups crumbed biscuits (Maybe Arnotts Nice or Scotch Fingers biscuits) 1 1/4 cups powdered icing sugar 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter (for base) 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter 1 cup white chocolate chips (for icing)

HOW TO MAKE

No bake slices for the sweet tooth!

1. Line a pan with baking paper and spray with cooking spray.

2. Place melted butter, crumbed biscuits, powdered sugar, and 3/4 cup peanut butter in a large bowl. Mix by hand until combined. Press firmly into prepared pan.

3. Place white chocolate chips and remaining 2 tablespoons peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in microwave for 30 second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. Pour over slice and spread with a spatula to evenly.

4. Place in fridge for at least 1 hour to set, cut into bars. Enjoy!

AMOUNT: 16

8 Piece Canister Set - Black Get your condiments sorted with this handy 8 piece canister set from your local Kmart store!

RRP $16.00 WEB www.kmart.com.au

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www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

29

Everything is

SPOON RACE

Party ideas for little master builders

KRAGLE GEL

HELIUM BALLOONS

LEGO-themed parties are perfect for both boys and girls and even for shared birthday celebrations. You can go with The LEGO Movie theme starring Emmett or WyldStyle or stick to your child’s favourite LEGO figurines, such as the Avengers or LEGO Friends.

PENCILS

STICKERS

LEGO PIZZA

LOLLY BAGS

CUP CAKES

Check out these brick inspired party favours, games and treats that will prove you’re the master of celebrations

BANNER

Eats and Treats • Kragle Gel (multi-coloured jelly) • LEGO sandwiches or brick crackers and cheese • Cupcakes with fondant LEGO figures as toppers • LEGO pizza • And of course, it’s not the ultimate LEGO party without cake

LOLLY BAGS

Party Games • LEGO piñata – Make your own paper-mâché brick and fill it with lollies • Guess the bricks – Fill a clear jar with LEGO pieces and get the children to guess the number • LEGO beanbag toss - Cover a cardboard box in paper and cut two holes in the top to resemble a LEGO block. You can buy colourful bean bags online or you can make your own by filling a snack -sized snaplock bag with rice and sewing mini felt pillows to hold them • LEGO spoon race – Use LEGO pieces rather than the traditional boiled egg • LEGO building awards – Give each child a plate of LEGO blocks and a set amount of time to build.

When time’s up, vote for who made the most imaginative creation • Pass the LEGO brick – Give Pass-the-Parcel a new look by wrapping each layer with a different colour of paper. And don’t forget to put Everything is Awesome on repeat

LEGO Poppers

Decorations • Glue six coloured circles on your lolly bags and onto coloured card to make brick bags and banners • Using yellow helium balloons, draw LEGO faces on each balloon. You can also do this to yellow paper lanterns and even your yellow cups • If you are serving poppers, wrap each in different coloured card and add six circles to the front

Lolly Bag Ideas • LEGO-themed pencils and erasers • LEGO stickers • Multi-coloured skittles or M&M’s wrapped in clear cellophane • Mini containers of play doh covered in yellow paper and topped with LEGO faces in black pen.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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Home Floating drawER bedside table

Repurpose an old drawer with a coat of pastel paint on the face of the drawer. Fix to the wall (making sure it is mounted on a stud or use a wallmate product) beside the bed to create a modern and unusual bedside table!

05. Harley Yellow Round Side Table (Zanui) (RRP $59.95)

07. SEVENTY TREE SMILE MINT PRINT (Leo&Bella) (RRP $52.00)

08. Cicci Gold Owl Bookend (Zanui) (RRP $64.95)

06. YOUR SO VAIN TRAVEL CASES (Typo) (RRP $10.00)

01. WINSTON MINI PENDANT TURQUOISE (Leo&Bella) (RRP $69.95)

TEENAGER'S SANCTUARY Teenagers like their space. And they know what they like. Teen rooms need to be practical, yet cozy at the same time. A desk and study area is almost a necessity, particularly if you have an older teen who requires a place to do homework and study.

02. Under The Canopy Cushion (Booie+Ben) (RRP $95.00)

STORY Carly Hammersley A teenager’s bedroom is often not just a room but a sanctuary for them to study, gossip with their friends and generally hide from the outside world.

If you have younger children as well as a teenager, think of their space as a refuge away from the rest of your home.

03. Pineapple Sculpture, 25cm (Set of 3) (Zanui) (RRP $89.95)

Invading a teen’s room can be akin to trespass or even treason in their books. So interfering in the decor in their rooms could, understandably, also be held in the utmost contempt.

Luckily we have some ideas that teens will find so cool, they won’t mind where they came from!

Storage

04. LOTUS HANGING CHAIR (Equator Homewares) (RRP $489)

You may be surprised at just how much stuff teenagers have make sure their room has plenty of storage. Shadow and storage boxes, which now come in funky geometrical shapes and natural timbers (tip: check out the hex ones!), are on trend at the moment and there’s something available to suit every price range (from Kmart to high-end Scandinavian designer Bloomingville). These boxes are not just an attractive decor item, but a place where teens can display trinkets and valuables.

Hanging Chairs

Somewhere comfy to curl up with a book, headphones and chill out (is that the terminology these days?) - and did I mention it HANGS? What is not to love? If you have the space, these chairs are the epitome of cool and will win your teen some serious cred with their friends too. If you’re not DIY inclined, it may be worthwhile talking to a builder or carpenter about installing a hanging chair. Plasterboard will obviously not hold the weight of the

HOME

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chair AND a growing teenager so it will need to be mounted on a ceiling joist to avoid damage - to ceiling, chair and teenager!

Wall Art From inspirational typography prints to personalised wall art, teens love to express themselves creatively and funky prints seem to have (thankfully) replaced the trend of plastering walls with favourite Hollywood hunks that most of us will recall from our own teen years.

Lighting Think carefully about the lighting in your teen’s space. Many teens are known for their love of sleeping in and retreating to their rooms. A variety of lighting options will give them flexibility and ensure they’re also working in a well-lit space if studying into the evening.

Task lighting, such as a table lamp on a bedside table, is a great idea if you have a bookworm who likes to read in bed. A table or floor lamp directing light onto a desk area is also worthwhile, particularly if the main ceiling light in the bedroom does not direct light onto this work area.

Colour Teens will often have very set ideas when it comes to the colour scheme of their rooms. Rather than butting heads over this - work with it. As a 16 year old, I would have happily painted my bedroom black from floor to ceiling if I’d been allowed to! While most parents will, understandably, not want to make that kind of commitment, monochrome rooms are on trend right now and pack a design punch that a teenager will love. Keep the walls crisp white and decorate with black and white accessories (think cushions, throws, lighting, rugs and artwork). If in contrast your teen likes bold and bright colours, you can do the same. Walls don’t have to be loud and overpowering - keeping the walls neutral and tying in decor with a colour scheme also means that designs can be chopped and changed as your teen grows older and their tastes inevitably grow with them.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

33

HOME

01. Abstract Art - Dark Circles 2 (Booie+Ben) (RRP $22.00)

P $19.95)

PHONES (Typo) (RR

02. SLEEP EASY HEAD

.95)

) (RRP $149

ble (Zanui

le Ta ua Conso 03. Sadie Aq

pakmag

TEEN DECOR

04. SUITCASE STORAGE SET (Typo) (RRP $24.99)

ER GRAN CUSHION COV 05. FINE LITTLE DAY (RRP $55.00) lla) Be o& (Le YELLOW

07. Home Republic Dansk Bedlinen (Adairs) (RRP $99.95)

06. Washington 2 in 1 Metal Desk Lamp - Blue (Target) (RRP $32.00)

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

HEALTH

pakmag

HEALTH

Winter is Coming Antibiotic Resistance

Combatting Children’s Skin Conditions A Newspoll study reveals that around 52 per cent of children – newborn to 17 years of age, suffer from eczema, dermatitis or sensitive skin that is easily irritated.

With so many children now being affected by allergic skin reactions, which can also lead to other chronic conditions such as asthma, it is important that children have a skin routine that supports the health of their skin from a young age.

Stick to Soap-Free Regular soap strips away the skin’s vital and natural layer of protection, leaving the skin dry and potentially open to infection, particularly in children who have sensitive skin or who have conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

Make Friends with Moisturiser Moisturiser helps to support the skin’s immune system and prevent infection and allergies. Make a light massage with moisturiser part of the nightly routine.

Slip, Slap, Slop There are a variety of sunscreens that are fragrance free and formulated especially for young and sensitive skin.

Boost their Vitamins and Supplements Fish oil supplements help reduce the severity of conditions like dermatitis, eczema and asthma.

Other supplements such as Vitamin A and Vitamin E are also important to maintain healthy skin.

Mario Calanna is the CEO of Calanna Pharmacy

Could the overuse of antibiotics be making us sicker?

Many of us are guilty of it, especially during cold and flu season – our child gets a cold and the first thing we do is head to the doctor and ask for a script.

However, for those of us with infections due to common winter viruses, but who are otherwise healthy, antibiotics are not the answer.

The government is cracking down on antibiotic usage as Health Minister Sussan Ley announced a national strategy to curb the overuse of antibiotics in Australia last month.

“The strategy is not about removing access but rather guiding Australians to take antibiotics safely,” Ms Ley said in a statement. “The over and misuse of antibiotics has been identified as a significant contributor to the emergence of resistant bacteria.”

Dr Lynn Weekes, CEO of NPS MedicineWise states, “The more antibiotics are used, the more chances bacteria have to become resistant to them. This can then make bacterial infections much harder to treat when you do have one.”

Australia has one of the highest rates of antibiotic use in the world with more than 24 million antibiotic prescriptions written every year. Last year, antibiotics were prescribed to over 10 million patients or an incredible 45 per cent of all Australians.

A 2014 NPS MedicineWise survey showed that one in five Australians expect antibiotics for viruses that cause a cold or flu.

To reduce our overuse, Weekes suggests managing your cold and flu symptoms in a more natural way.

“Only see your doctor if you feel your symptoms are severe or are not improving. You may want to consider getting a flu vaccination now to reduce your risk of a serious bout of flu as the winter season nears.”

Reducing your reliance on antibiotics Do you know people who say, “I haven’t had a cold in years?” Wondering how they do it? Boost your immunity the natural way - here’s how: • Stress less, sleep more - And incorporate exercise into your regime • Add Echinacea to your morning menu • Become a gingerholic - Ginger is beneficial to colds, flu, circulation, digestion and nausea • Get your vitamins - Including vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D3 and lysine • Power through with probiotics - Probiotics are, essentially, “good bacteria” that help fight “bad bacteria.” These are important to take after a course of antibiotics.

• Up your iron intake - Essential for immunity and energy, iron-rich foods include spinach, red meats, beans, whole grains, seeds and dark chocolate (winning!)

• Embrace prebiotics - These are non-digestible food ingredients that, when consumed, stimulate the growth and function of "good" bacteria in the gut. Foods with prebiotics include bananas, berries, garlic, soybeans, onions, leeks, shallots, asparagus and chicory root.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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pakmag

Well Being

WELL BEING 30 lunges

Back to Basics – Reducing Harmful Preservatives in Packaged Foods If you struggle with day to day parenting, know that you’re not alone! To make things even harder, there are many outside factors that contribute to the challenges we face with modern day parenting.

Healthy growing children need nutritious food as fuel for their bodies, not synthetic chemicals. Preservatives are just that.

Preservatives are used to prevent bacteria, yeast and mould growth, preserve colour and flavour and keep food from going bad by preventing oxidation. It can be hard to avoid preservatives as they can be found in almost any type of food or drink. While there are many natural preservatives such as salt, vinegar and sugar, most used by food manufacturers are synthetic.

The Parenting Workout Health professionals recommend that everyone in the household find 30 minutes a day to do some form of exercise. But this can be tricky when balancing work, life and kids.

Give this work-out a try for a week.

The most common is called Allura Red or colour number E129 and can be linked to allergies, mood disorders, learning and behavioural difficulties, hyperactivity, ADHD, nausea, hay fever, hypersensitivity reactions, tantrums, head banging, hives, headaches, restlessness and sleep disturbances. The colour red is currently banned for use in food in Denmark, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Norway, but not Australia.

• Whenever a child says, “I’m hungry,” do 15 squats • Whenever someone complains about the food you offer, do 25 push-ups • Whenever a child says, “No,” do 20 sit-ups • Whenever you use the phrase, “Because I said so,” do 15 star jumps • Whenever your children get in an argument about who gets to play with the iPad, do three laps around the kitchen • Whenever you put the kettle on and then forget to make tea, do 30 lunges.

Avoiding food preservatives isn’t always easy but here are three tips to get you started:

Who says you can’t find time during the day to exercise with the kids at home?

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To give you an example, let’s discuss the use of red food dyes. These are used in mass food production (processed, dairy, frozen foods, beverages) cosmetics and medicines. They are classified as carcinogens (any substance or agent that may contribute to cancer) and are therefore hazardous to our health.

JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

• Start reading labels – This will help you familiarise yourself with the various preservatives in your food.

• Identify the good, the bad and the awful – On the safe list? E 160a (Carotene), E160c (Paprika), E160d (Lycopene) & E160e (Beta-apo-8’Carotenal).

What to avoid? Look out for numbers 129, 160B, 202, 211, 220, 221-228, 280-283, 250 and 251. Some of the names of these harmful preservatives include potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, sulphites, sulphur dioxide, sodium nitrite, sodium nitrate and propionates.

• Find alternatives – For example, beetroot juice can also be used to colour food rather than relying on red food dye. Hoppers Natural Food Colours are also a preservative-free alternative.

With the rise of childhood disorders, behavioural problems and illnesses, any small changes and better choices you make will benefit your entire family.

The good news for Far North Queensland is that there are so many informed and passionate people and resources available to assist you every step of the way.

Story Jade Vogler, Health Coach, HEALthee Living www.jadevoglerhealtheeliving.com

HEALTH

pakmag

HEALTH

Vein Pain?

Consider Sclerotherapy Uncomfortable and unsightly veins affect more than 30% of the population.

There are many myths about varicose and spider veins with the most common being: • Only women get varicose veins • FALSE Both men and women suffer from varicose veins • Varicose veins don’t hurt • FALSE Bulging veins cause much pain and discomfort • Varicose veins are a cosmetic flaw • FALSE Varicose veins are a circulatory malfunction • Surgery is the only way to remove varicose veins • FALSE With today’s medical advances, surgery is no longer the only option The reasons for many of these mistaken beliefs include out-ofdate treatments and a lack of specialisation. Recently there have been a number of new medical specialties with Sclerotherapy, the preferred treatment, as it is less invasive and much less painful than other methods.

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical procedure with little downtime for patients. During the procedure, a solution is injected into the vein with a very fine needle. The solution causes a reaction along the internal wall of the vein, causing it to swell and stick together. As a result the vein no longer fills with blood and gradually fades over a period of weeks until it becomes barely visible.

Considered the gold standard of treating varicose veins and spider veins, it improves the cosmetic appearance whilst also reducing the associated symptoms such as pain, itching and burning.

With the cooler months approaching, now is the perfect time to book in for a treatment. The vein treatment provided at Exqisit You Aesthetic and Skin Clinic has been found to actively reduce or eliminate many or all of these uncomfortable symptoms.

Story Dr. John McIntosh GP Superclinic

Five things you need to know about the flu If you’ve been unlucky enough to get influenza – also known as ‘the flu’ – then you’ll know it’s horrible. The virus is more than just a bad cold and, in some cases, can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or even death.

“It’s a very serious virus,” Omega Health Medical Centre’s Dr Anthony Mahler said, “and one that is constantly mutating. That’s why you need to get vaccinated against the most recent strain of the virus every year.”

1. The flu isn’t just a common cold “While a common cold does cause a mild fever and a runny nose, the symptoms only last for a few days. The flu, however, causes a high fever, muscular pains, shivering, a headache, and a dry cough that can become quite severe,” says Dr Mahler. “In the more severe cases it can progress to pneumonia and other potentially life-threatening conditions.”

2. Those at high risk of complications are vaccinated “The flu is easily spread through coughing, sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces,” Dr Mahler said. “Serious complications occur most often in those whose immune system is not as strong – such as young children, pregnant women and people with a chronic illness. All people are higher risk of complications should be vaccinated.”

3. Immunisation takes 10 to 14 days for full effect “You aren’t protected against the flu immediately because the vaccine takes up to two weeks for your body to process. As the flu season starts in the dry season here in Cairns, we strongly encourage you to visit your family doctor and get vaccinated in March.”

4. Good hygiene also helps to stop the spread of flu “Although a yearly vaccination is the best way to avoid spreading the flu, it is also very important to practice good hygiene,” said Dr Mahler. “Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, and regularly wash your hands with soap or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.

5. If you’re sick, don’t go to school or work “You should avoid going to school, work or crowded places when you’re sick to prevent spreading the virus to others,” he said. “If you or your children are unwell, stay home and rest. Paracetamol and fluids will manage mild cases of the flu. If symptoms are severe or you are at higher risk of complications visit your family doctor.”

Dr Anthony Mahler is a GP at Omega Health Medical Centre.

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T0 s y a W 67

How many are you planning on doing?

School holidays are here! Regardless of whether you have two full weeks of activities to plan or you only have a couple of days off with the kids, you are sure to find something for the whole family with our 67 school holiday activities, hand-picked from our team at PakMag.

Get Outside, Get Active

But… it’s Raining!

Make sure your child gets at least thirty minutes of exercise each day with these fun ideas.

Never fear. We’ve got heaps of indoor activities that will take all day (or at least a couple of hours) to complete.

1. Have a water-balloon fight.

16. Spend the morning at the movies.

2. Set up a relay race for the kids.

17. Stage an old school movie marathon.

Pick three of your childhood favourites.

3. Plant a garden in your backyard.

Some of our picks? The Goonies, Stand

by Me, E.T. and anything Disney from the 4. Visit your local zoo or wildlife park.

90’s!

5. Check your local council for free activities 18. Set up a dance disco in your lounge in your area. You will most likely find there is something every morning to suit the kids, from face painting to futsal trials.

6. Pack up a picnic, blindfold the kids and

drive to a surprise location.

7. Visit a local farm or farm stay.

8. Take a hike with the entire family. Just

make sure you choose a route that is suitable for everyone.

room, complete with fairy lights and costumes.

19. Celebrate Christmas in July. Drag

out the old Christmas tree and set up the decorations. Play Michael Buble on repeat.

20. Reignite your love for old board

games. Remember Monopoly, Life, Taboo and Pictionary? You loved them. And chances are, so will your kids.

9. Go for a family bike ride.

21. Have a theme day. Choose foods, and activities in that certain theme.

10. Plan a beach day – it might be too cold games Check out our Party Page for awesome to go for a swim, but collect shells, bring a fishing rod or make sandcastles.

11. Visit your local botanical gardens.

12. Play tennis at your local tennis club.

13. Set up an outdoor obstacle course.

14. Dig out the tarp from your shed, add

some soap and water to it and create your own slippery slide.

15. Stage a garden tea party outside,

complete with delicious homemade cupcakes and backyard games like cricket and crochet. Dress in fancy attire and talk in British accents.

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Lego theme day ideas.

22. Set up a box challenge. Every child gets a box and has a certain amount of time to create something cool.

23. Make an inside obstacle course with cushions, pillows, boxes, chairs and blankets.

24. Stage a play or puppet show.

25. Set up a colour treasure hunt in your home. Ask your kids to find 10 things around the house in a certain colour.

26. Stage a salon day.

VISIT your Local Recreation Centres Pick and choose what is available in your area and what your children would be interested in trying.

27. Flip over at your local trampoline centre.

28. Burn some energy at an indoor play centre.

29. Spend the day roller skating or ice skating.

30. Lounge around at your local swimming pool.

31. Check out your local PCYC for any

school holiday activities on offer (martial arts, kindy gym, etc).

32. Get competitive with laser tag.

33. Catch some waves with cable ski.

34. Go bowling.

35. Play a round of mini golf.

Educational Activities The kids may have a break from school work but keep their little minds busy with these ideas.

36. Check out your local library. Most

libraries will have various school holiday activities including crafts and games for kids of all ages.

37. Visit your local art gallery or museum.

Choose one you’ve never been to before.

38. Visit your local planetarium.

39. Host an outdoor bake sale or lemonade stand.

40. Write a letter to a relative and post it.

41. Make a robot out of cardboard boxes.

42. Write a story and get your children to illustrate each page.

43. Stage a painting class outside.

Choose something in nature to paint and showcase your work in a gallery in your lounge room.

At-Home Activities 49. Get creative in the kitchen. There are

so many great recipes that are not too tricky for the little ones. Check out our Kids in the Kitchen feature on page 28 for a few cute ideas.

50. Make a collage. You can use things

you collect at the park, beach, magazine cut-outs or anything really.

51. Paint rock animals – take a walk to

your local creek and pick a few larger rocks to take home, wash and paint. You can make little rock critters, like ladybugs or caterpillars, or stick to abstract patterns and stripes.

52. Create your own placemats – use

stickers, magazine cut-outs and clear contact to give your old plain placemat a fresh new look.

53. Make a blanket fort.

54. Play “play dough surprise”. This is

Night-time Fun Let the kids stay up a little later and give these ideas a try.

44. Set up a backyard campout. If you

don’t want to brave the crowds or the fickle weather, then why not set up the tent in your backyard for the night?

45. Go to a drive-in movie, if your area has one.

46. Set up a blanket on the grass and watch the stars.

47. Go night-fishing.

48. Organise a neighbourhood street

party for one evening. Ask every neighbour to bring a dish and organise party games for the kids.

a game we just made up the other day.

Take little items around the house (bouncy balls, figurines, play jewellery, toy cars, etc.) and hide them in the play dough in various play doh containers. Let your kids open each container and dig out the surprise. Repeat for infinity.

Multi-Purpose Activities School holidays is a great time to get organised for the rest of the year.

While your kids may not be too happy to spend the entire time cleaning, try convincing them to take on at least one of these tasks:

60. Organise their wardrobe.

61. Wash the cars. If you are feeling extra

ambitious, let the kids set up a ‘car wash’ station and see if any of the neighbours are interested in a free car wash.

62. Cull any toys they no longer play with and give them to charity.

63. Rearrange their rooms.

64. Host a freezer cooking day.

65. Make jams.

66. Do the bi-yearly doctor and dentist visit.

67. Host a weekend garage sale. Get

rid of all that old stuff and make a bit of pocket change on the side.

Story Jenna Gallina

55. Create an aquarium diorama out of an old shoe box.

56. Set up a toy circuit with five different stations such as Lego, puzzles, books, colouring and play dough. Your children will have fifteen minutes to play at each station before rotating.

57. Have a LEGO building contest.

58. Make a photo book out of old photographs.

59. Coordinate a dance. Perform it for your partner when they return home.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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BIRCH DPS

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In Cinemas Now

from the classic franchise. The new film follows Sarah Connor, John Connor, Kyle Reese and the terminators in a relentless race through time Arnold Schwarzenegger is returning to the sci-fi franchise to play the role of the Terminator. He will reprise his role as the cyborg assassin for the fifth installment directed by Alan Taylor. Australian, Jai Courtney has been tapped to play Kyle Reese. Courtney’s character is a resistance fighter from the future sent back to the present to save Sarah Connor, the woman who will give birth to mankind’s saviour.

Emilia Clarke is on board to play Sarah Connor and Jason Clarke MAGIC MIKE XXL http://www.vrls.com/dropbox/MagicMike2/MMXXL.zip will play John Connor. in Cinemas July 9

grossing original R-rated comedy of all time. Joined once again by star Mark Wahlberg and fellow Ted writers Alec Sulkin & Wellesley Wild, MacFarlane produces the live action/CG-animated comedy alongside Bluegrass Films’ Scott Stuber, as well as John Jacobs and Jason Clark.

Starring Mark Wahlberg, Amanda Seyfried, Morgan Freeman Written and Directed Seth MacFarlane

SANDRA BULLOCK

IS

SCARLET OVERKILL

MAGICMIKEXXL.COM.AU

Strong coarse language and sexual references

Picking up the story three years after Mike bowed out of the stripper life at the top of his game, “Magic Mike XXL” finds the remaining Kings of Tampa likewise ready to throw in the towel. But they want to do it their way: burning down the house in one last blow-out performance in Myrtle Beach, and with legendary headliner Magic Mike sharing the spotlight with them. On the road to their final show, with whistle stops in Jacksonville and Savannah to renew old acquaintances and make new friends, Mike and the guys learn some new moves and shake off the past in surprising ways.

Starring Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez and Gabriel Iglesias Director Gregory Jacobs

Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Matt Smith, Jai Courtney, Jason Clarke and Emilia Clarke Director Alan Taylor

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE 5 – ROGUE NATION In Cinemas July 30 With the IMF disbanded, and Ethan (Tom Cruise) out in the cold, the team now faces off against a network of highly skilled special agents, the Syndicate. These highly trained operatives are hellbent on creating a new world order through an escalating series of terrorist attacks. Ethan gathers his team and joins forces with disavowed British agent Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson), who may or may not be a member of this rogue nation, as the group faces their most impossible mission yet.

TERMINATOR GENISYS Coming Soon Terminator Genisys reinvents the themes and characters

Starring Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson, Ving Rhames, Sean Harris and Alec Baldwin Director Christopher McQuarrie

P R E S E NTS

ANTMAN In Cinemas July 16 The next evolution of the Marvel Cinematic Universe brings a founding member of The Avengers to the big screen for the first time with Marvel Studios’ “Ant-Man.” Armed with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, master thief Scott Lang must embrace his inner-hero and help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym, protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of towering threats.

Against seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Pym and Lang must plan and pull off a heist that will save the world.

Cast Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Corey Stoll, Bobby Cannavale, Michael Peña, Judy Greer, Tip “Ti” Harris, David Dastmalchian, Wood Harris, Jordi Mollà and Michael Douglas Director Peyton Reed

BEFORE GRU, THEY HAD A HISTORY OF BAD BOSSES

IN CINEMAS JUNE 18 Mild animated violence

minionsmovie.com.au

/minions #minions

MINIONS 3D The story of Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment’s Minions begins at the dawn of time.

Starting as single-celled yellow organisms, Minions evolve through the ages, perpetually serving the most despicable of masters. After accidentally killing off so many of them – from T. rex to Napoleon – the Minions find themselves without a master to serve and fall into a deep depression. But one Minion named Kevin has a plan, and he – alongside teenage rebel Stuart and lovable little Bob – ventures out into the world to find a new evil boss for his brethren to follow.

Starring Sandra Bullock, John Hamm, Geoffrey Rush

TED 2 Seth MacFarlane returns as writer, director and voice star of Ted 2, Universal and Media Rights Capital’s follow-up to the highestwww.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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TRAVEL IDEAS

Club Med

For families looking for an easy budget friendly holiday, you just can’t go past Club Med and my recent stay at their Bali resort reminded me how much they have to offer. One of the best things about an all-inclusive holiday is that everything is included in one simple price so you know up front how much you’re spending on your accommodation, meals and drinks and most activities.

The Club Med Inclusions: • Accommodation • Three gourmet meals a day prepared by international chefs, open bar including cocktails and snacks throughout the day • Kids club from 4-17 years (petite Club 2-3 years available at additional cost) • Sports and activities • Entertainment for all ages Aside from the excellent service and attention from the staff which is standard at every resort, they can be slightly different with what they offer in the way of activities, sports and facilities for kids so it is important to check with your travel agent that your choice offers everything you need.

Inter-connecting rooms are important when travelling as a family and although it is possible to request, it is rare for hotels and resorts to guarantee. This is not the case with Club Med and if they are available at the time of booking they can be guaranteed and offers great peace of mind and another great reason these resorts are perfect for families.

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Activities available at the resorts are second to none and are coordinated by their G.O.’s (Gentil Organisateur) who are much more than hotel staff and end up becoming more like friends. They organise all of the activities, entertainment, run the Kids Club programs and will ensure you and your family have the time of your life. Whether you want to watch a show or dance the night away, play golf, learn archery or flying trapeze, with top of the range facilities and equipment you will never run out of exciting things to do.

Wanting some time away from the kids? Most resorts have adults only areas for those wanting to get away from it all while the kids play and they will never run out of things to do. Kids are extremely well catered for at Club Med resorts, with their Baby Welcome offering child care equipment, strollers and toys for young ones from 2-23 months and clubs for ages 4-17 included in the package price. Clubs for children from 4 months to 3 years, Petit and Baby Club Med, are also available as an optional extra.

• Baby Club Med (4-23 months) Run by G.Os who are experienced in caring for babies, offering early learning activities and peaceful moments for tiny tots.

• Petit Club Med (2-3 years) Fun and spacious play areas are provided for dances, happy gym sessions, learning farms, outdoor games and other quieter activities like singing and storytelling.

• Mini Club Med (4-10 years) All activities are specifically designed for each age group like mini sporting tournaments with prizes on offer.

• Juniors Club / Club Med Passworld (11-17 years) Kids are supervised in two separate age groups with access to very trendy areas specifically designed for teenagers.

Sports and artistic activities like sound mixing, hip hop, making videos and watching films.Club Med is an easy choice for a family holiday and with over 60 Sun Resorts all over the world plus Ski Resorts in France, Italy, China and Japan, the hardest part is choosing your destination.

Story Kylie Stokes

BEDARRA BEACH HOUSE A child free weekend away is often something parents dream of. Packing lightly, peace and quiet, sleep ins, eating and drinking what you like without having to worry about anyone else but yourself. A weekend dedicated to whatever you wish to reconnect with yourself, the world around you, and your partner. If this sounds like something you and your partner need - notice I didn’t say want - I said NEED, then this is the place for you.

Story Bree James

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TRAVEL

Often as parents we neglect to prioritise time for ourselves and couple time. After a busy five years of being parents, this was an exciting moment - our first child-free weekend away.

Bedarra is situated 10 kilometres off the coast from Mission Beach in Tropical North Queensland (approx.

140 km south of Cairns airport). Road transfers from the Cairns airport take approximately two hours, with daily launch transfers from Mission Beach to the island. Alternatively, scenic 45 minute heli-transfers are available from Cairns airport directly to their beachside heli-pad.

While the heli-transfers did look tempting, we opted to take advantage of the exceptional weather and travel by water-taxi. The boat trip over was delightful and the ocean was teeming with wildlife. It took about 15 minutes on the boat and then we arrived at the stunning island.

There are seven other houses on the island, plus two live-on caretaker's homes, plus on the other side of the island is the small boutique Bedarra Resort. As soon as my feet hit the sand, the sound of waves and wildlife were the only sounds I heard, which set the tone for the whole weekend.

The beach house is homely and attention to the needs of its guests are catered for to a tee. Beach towels, snorkelling gear, even life jackets if you want to use your private kayak, as well as lounge chairs on the beach. The kitchen has a basic pantry with sauces, sugar, flour, water, spices, herbs, a first aid kit, coffee machine, every tea that you

Book

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can imagine, a dishwasher, washing machine, gas stove and large fridge.

The lounge and dining area includes a huge daybed, board games and dining table but the most relaxing part of the property would have to be the deck that bridges the main house to the upper deck which leads to the master bedroom and ensuite.

We spent most of our time in the house on the deck, which has two huge hammocks plus a great lounge area that overlooks the ocean and other islands close-by, plus a small barbecue which we cooked most of our meals on. The master bedroom is certainly the star, with by far the best view I have ever had from bed. The sunsets and sunrise, viewed snuggled under the covers, were stunning!

If you are the adventurous type, there are several walks with sensational views. From the top of a headland we spotted huge sea turtles and other wildlife! Bring your backpack and throw in some nibbles and champagne and you have a perfect sunset picnic spot.

If you enjoy fishing ensure you bring all your own gear. The kayak has a glass bottom so you can trek as far as you dare and same goes for the snorkelling. The ocean does give a cool breeze overnight so remember to pack some warm clothing.

Bedarra Island is a location where lifestyle and the landscape join to create paradise. Memories made on Bedarra will be with you forever as this house is designed for those who wish to escape, unwind and relax.

Our only regret is that life beckoned and we couldn’t stay longer - we missed our kids too much!

WHAT TO PACK Things to read, swimmers and sunscreen, backpack, food and drinks in reusable bags, walking shoes and warm clothes.

TRAVEL IDEAS

For Booking Enquiries www.bedarrabeachhouse.com.au or enquiries@bedarrabeachhouse.com.au Address Bedarra Beach House Lot 11, Bedarra Island Phone 0419 953 354

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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TIME FOR A LAUGH

Baby Snake: Mummy, are we poisonous?

Mother Snake: Yes, son. Why? Baby Snake: I just bit my tongue!

What my Mother taught me!

My mother taught me RELIGION. "You'd better pray that will come out of the carpet."

My mother taught me TIME TRAVEL. "If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!"

My mother taught me FORESIGHT. "Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."

My mother taught me IRONY. "Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."

My mother taught me about CONTORTIONISM. "Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"

My mother taught me about WEATHER. "This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."

My mother taught me about ENVY. "There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful parents like you do."

My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION. "Just wait until we get home."

My mother taught me about RECEIVING. "You are going to get it when you get home!"

My mother taught me HUMOUR. "When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."

My mother taught me WISDOM. "When you get to be my age, you'll understand."

My mother taught me about JUSTICE. "One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you"

What did the digital clock say to its mother?

“Look, Ma! No hands!”

Son: Dad, do you know the difference between a pack of cookies and a pack of elephants?

Dad: No. Son: Then it’s a good thing Mum does the grocery shopping!

Jack: What did the mother broom say to the baby broom?

Bill: What?

Jack: It’s time to go to sweep!

"BARK!" Mother to Son: I’m warning you. If you fall out of that tree and break both your legs, don’t come running to me!

A mother mouse and a baby mouse are walking along when suddenly a cat attacks them. The mother mouse shouts “BARK!” and the cat runs away. “See?” the mother mouse says to her baby.

“Now do you see why it’s important to learn a foreign language?”

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How come the mother needle got mad at the baby needle?

It was way past its threadtime!