ISSUE: JUNE 2016
11
AUSTRALIA
WinterHolidays No Yell Parenting
SWITCHING ON TO Reading, Writing SCIENCE & the world of tablets
CELEBRATE: UNDER THE SEA
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JUNE 2016 www.pakmag.com.au
HELLO
CONTENTS
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ISSUE NO.11 JUNE 2016
WIN
04 What's On 06 Feature: No Yell Parenting,
Hello and welcome to our June edition of PakMag. It’s been a busy month over at PakMag and we are so excited to be welcoming our education series again. Our June edition is packed with parenting tips and
It’s Possible
9 Education: Reading, Writing And The
World Of Tablets
tricks including a feature on no yell parenting and tips on hosting an adorable
13 Parenting: ABC’s Of Life Lessons
under the sea theme party. The Block’s Caro and Kingi share their secrets on
15 Education: Switching On
decluttering and we have plenty of educational advice on science, reading, writing and the world of tablets.
To Science
17 At Any Age: Fussy Eaters
I hope you have a wonderful June with your family, and don’t forget to tell
18 Fertility Ability
everyone, you read it in PakMag.
20 Bump And Bub
Bree x
22 Craft: Learn And Grow With
Science Fun!
24 Celebrate: Under The Sea
BREE JAMES / PAKMAG PUBLISHER
27 Top Tips For Party Success 28 Winter Fashion With Gerlinda 30 Home with Caro & Kingi: Decluttering
PAKMAG P 4053 3331 F 4053 3350 E admin@grandpublishing.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.
Deluxe Designer Sara
Events Extraordinaire Kelly
Darling Designer Clare
Sales Guru Angelina
Talented Trent
Grand Poobah Bree
Office Aficionado Janelle
Sales Star Cherie
Rad Sales Rep Jacqui Witty Writer Jenna
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WHAT'S ON JUNE IN AUSTRALIA Queensland OUT OF THE BOX FESTIVAL • Where: QPAC • When: 21st – 28th June 2016 • Cost: From $15pp MORE INFO
DISNEY ON ICE MAGICAL ICE FESTIVAL • Where: Brisbane Entertainment Centre • When: 23rd – 27th June 2016 • Cost: From $32pp MORE INFO
INDIGI DAY OUT & FOLK REDLANDS FESTIVAL OF MUSIC • Where: Capalaba • When: 4th June 2016 10am- 4pm • Cost: Free
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH • Where: Stirling Community Theatre • When: 24th June – 3rd July 2016, various session times • Cost: From $12pp Family of 4 $48.00 MORE INFO
Victoria THE MELBOURNE MAGICAL FESTIVAL • Where: Various Locations • When: 27th June to 9th July 2016 • Cost: Various (some free) MORE INFO
THE VEGETABLE PLOT • Where: The Chapel Loft, Prahan • When: 18-19th June 2016 1pm • Cost: $20 pp or $60 for family of 4
MORE INFO
MORE INFO
NEW SOUTH WHALES
NT
BABIES PROMS: THE FOUR SEASONS • Where: Sydney Opera House • When: June 10th -14th 2016 • Cost: From $25pp
HEALTH & WELLNESS FAMILY FUN DAY • Where: Darwin Waterfront • When: 4th June 2016 10-3pm • Cost: TBC
MORE INFO
ART TOURS FOR PARENTS, CARERS & BABIES • Where: Museum of Contemporary Art • When: 2nd June 2016 • Cost: From $15 & Babies Free MORE INFO
South Australia
MORE INFO
TASmania MISTER MAKER • Where: Derwent Entertainment Centre, Glenorchy • When: 25th June 2016 10am & 1pm • Cost: from $38.00
WESTERN AUSTRALIA YOU’RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN • Where: Garrick Theatre, Guilford • When: 2nd – 18th June 2016 2pm & 8pm • Cost: from $20pp MORE INFO
PINJARRA FESTIVAL • Where: Edenvale Homestead, Pinjarra • When: 4-5th June 2016 10am to 4pm • Cost: Free MORE INFO
AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY AFTERDARK WINTER LANTERN TOURS • Where: Australian National Botanic Gardens • When: From June 4th every Saturday 6.30pm • Cost: $26pp MORE INFO
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF PLAYSCHOOL • Where: National Museum Australia • When: June – 24 July 2016 9am to 5pm • Cost: $4-$8 under 5’s free MORE INFO
MORE INFO
MEGA TOY FAIR • Where: Striling Angus Hall, Wayville Showgrounds • When: 4-5th June 2016 10am-5pm • Cost: $75.0 per Adult, $2 12-17yrs and Free for U12’s MORE INFO
"Elise picks The Vegetable Plot in Victoria"
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8th - 10th July
V8 Supercars Castrol EDGE Townsville 400 WHEN 8 to 10 July 2016 WHERE Townsville Street Circuit MORE INFO www.v8supercars.com.au North Queensland’s loudest weekend is coming for the V8 Supercars Castrol EDGE Townsville 400, 8 – 10 July 2016. A weekend full of intense V8 Supercars racing and exciting entertainment. Watch the Stadium Super Trucks as they fly through the air and then rock under the SuperTop on Saturday night with ICEHOUSE and Choirboys. Stadium Super Trucks will ramp up the ontrack action, making their racing debut in North Queensland. Rock under the SuperTop with Aussie rock legends ICEHOUSE and special guest Choirboys live on Saturday night. Great support categories will roll in to the Townsville, including V8 Supercars Dunlop Series, V8 Utes and Australian GTs. There is something for the whole family with the on and off track action, the V8 Supercars Paddock, Disney Zone and more. Tickets from www.ticketek.com.au. Kids under 12 go free trackside with a paying adult. M
CK!
We also have three minor prize packages (valued at $690 each) including a Family (2A2K) Trackside Pass of the Castrol EDGE Townsville 400 and a $50 Disney merchandise pack. Enter at www.pakmag.com.au
PRIZE PA
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OR
We have four V8 Supercars prize packs to give away to our PakMag readers. Valued at $2640, our major prize giveaway includes a Family (2A2K) Trackside Pass to the Castrol EDGE Townsville 400 and a meet and greet for the family with Mark ‘Frosty’ Winterbottom.
AJ
No Yell Parenting
IT’S POSSIBLE
STORY Jenna Gallina
I will be the first to admit that when it comes to staying in control of my household, especially my children, I have really good days and really really bad days. Lately it feels like there has been more bad days than good ones and most of the time I go to bed feeling like, once again, I have failed at being a mum.
Yes, I yell at my kids. Yes, I lose control. And yes, I feel guilty after the fact.
No Yell Parenting sounds like a kooky childrearing theory but I have heard good things about it.
Screaming at my children to do what they
Dr. Laura Markham, author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids and expert in No Yell Parenting explains, “The truth is that yelling scares kids. It makes them harden their hearts to us. And when we yell, kids go into fight, flight or freeze mode, so they stop learning whatever we are trying to teach.”
are told, resorting to taking away toys and then hearing, “I hate you,” is not the way I want any
day to end, but this is often the case. And it has to stop.
Most parents know they should stop yelling, but is there
Furthermore, while yelling can work, it trains our kids to not listen to us until we raise our voices. And it also trains them to yell back at us when they really want something.
another way to get your children’s attention? DR. MARKHAM HAS DEVELOPED A
10 STEP PLAN TO IMPLEMENT A NO YELL PARENTING ROUTINE IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD:
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LEARN TO CONTROL YOUR OWN EMOTIONS
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Children model their behaviour from yours and thus all parents need to focus on keeping control of their own emotions before they can expect their children to be able to do the same. “Whether or not they show it, our anger pushes kids of all ages away from us. Yelling at them practically guarantees that they’ll have an “attitude” by the time they’re ten, and that yelling fights will be the norm during their teen years,” Dr. Markham says.
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USE A RESPECTFUL VOICE The biggest problem in our household is respect, or lack thereof. I know there is love, but often poor behaviour overtakes this love and yelling is one of the most common forms of disrespect (on my end and on theirs). Make a plan to use respectful voices, as a team. And when someone in the household does fall off the horse, then support them as they get back on.
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CUT THE KIDS A BIT OF SLACK Kids will be kids. They are immature balls of emotions and they need to push the limits to see what’s solid. “Children need to experiment with power so they can learn to use it responsibly. Their prefrontal cortex isn’t fully developed, so their emotions often take over, which means they can’t think straight when they’re upset.”
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LET IT GO Let go of the anger and frustrations that build up during the day. “Instead, stop, take responsibility for your own mood, give yourself what you need to feel better, and shift yourself to a happier place,” Dr. Markham suggests.
FEATURE
5
OFFER EMPATHY WHEN YOUR CHILD
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EXPRESSES ANY EMOTION.
• “Remember, they are your children. And they are simply acting the way that you act.”
Talking about how they feel and using other techniques (like deep breathing) can help children regulate these emotions.
• “You’re doing everything right, even though this moment feels wrong.”
SEE THINGS FROM YOUR
• “The kids are happy and healthy – that’s what matters most.”
CHILDREN’S PERSPECTIVES Children need to feel like you are on their side and that you understand them. Before you can correct your child’s behaviour, you need to connect with him.
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“Feeling understood also keeps kids from going off the deep end” Dr. Markham adds.
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FIND YOUR MANTRA Once you are in this calmer place, find a mantra, or a quote, that helps you stay in control and keep the bigger picture in mind. Dr. Markham suggests, “Choose Love,” or “I don’t have to win here,” but here are a few that I use:
Expressing our emotions is a normal and healthy thing. Getting angry and frustrated is too. But there are ways to address these emotions without resorting to raising our voices.
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FOCUS ON STAYING CALM AND MOVING ON It’s natural to want to teach your child the right way to act but after a big blow out, this is not the right time.
Don’t do a thing.
“Until your child feels understood and reconnected, he can’t hear your guidance. There is always time to talk later, once you and your child have both calmed down and you’re focused on the warmth between you, instead of from your anger.”
Even though it feels natural to address the problem right away (and yell at your child), step away for a moment.
Use this time to connect – offer a cuddle, make them giggle and get everyone back on track and in a happy mindset.
WHEN YOU GET ANGRY, STOP
TAKE A TIME OUT Rather than sending your child to his room, send yourself. Go to the bathroom – splash some water on your face. Take a few deep breaths and try to regulate your anger. Under the anger is fear, sadness and disappointment and it is okay to let these feelings surface. “Once you let yourself feel what’s under the angerwithout taking action-- the anger will just melt away.”
After writing this, I decided to practice what I preach and give the above tips a try. So far, I can’t say that we have limited yelling completely from our household but I will say that we are taking baby steps to get there. All of us are more in control of our emotions and, although the anger is still there, the disrespect is slowly abating. And the love is showing through so much more.
In fact, for the first time in months, it finally feels like we are having more good days than bad.
PEACEFUL PARENT, HAPPY KIDS Author: Dr. Laura Markham Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How To Stop Yelling and Start Connecting, has rapidly become an underground favourite for parents around the globe. Find out more and where to get your copy at: www.ahaparenting.com/peaceful-parent-happy-kids
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EDUCATION
pakmag
Reading, Writing
AND THE
World of Tablets STORY Jenna Gallina
As a writer I am more than passionate about the importance of reading and writing in all aspects of life, especially for young children. As much as I promote, encourage and practice reading and writing in my home (and every day at work), I hate to admit that I have a child who cannot read or write. Every day he falls further and further behind his peers in these two critical subjects. It breaks my heart. The underlying reason why he is falling behind in reading and writing is yet to be determined. It could be due to a learning difficulty or it could be because I am not doing enough with him at home. It could be because he simply hasn’t developed this part of his brain yet or it could be because he really doesn’t want to learn. Or it could be because he is so obsessed with his iPad that he prefers to play games than to actually pick up a book and attempt to read.
The Rise of the iPad School curriculum has changed a lot since we were growing up. In addition to reading, writing and maths, children are also learning how to navigate through the often complex and fascinating world of technology. Every classroom has an iPad (or several) and students are encouraged to learn how to use these devices. For many mums and dads, encouraging their children to use a tablet is the easy bit. Encouraging them to put the tablet down, however, can pose quite the challenge. While there is no denying the benefit of learning how to read books and how to write using a pen and paper, iPads can actually help develop these skills (if you can convince your kids to close the Minecraft app).
We’ve compiled a list of some of the most educational and engaging apps for kids of all ages and abilities to help develop these essential reading and writing skills.
For Writing and Comprehension
For Vocabulary and Spelling
BOOK CREATOR
Cost: Free
Cost: Free Grade Level: 3rd, 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes
Available: The App Store & iTunes
MINIMOD READING FOR DETAILS LITE Cost: $5.99 Grade Level: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes
BLUSTER! Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th
SCENE SPEAK Cost: $14.99
Grade Level: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th
Available: The App Store & iTunes
WRITE ABOUT THIS
THE SIGHT WORD ADVENTURE
Cost: $5.99 Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes
Cost: $1.99
WRITING WIZARD Cost: $7.99 Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st Available: The App Store & iTunes
Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd Available: The App Store & iTunes
ROCKET SPELLER Cost: Free - $1.49
Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd
Available: The App Store & iTunes
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pakmag EDUCATION
ABC POCKETPHONICS
For Children with Dyslexia and other Learning Disabilities
Cost: $10.99
ARTICULATION STATION
Available: The App Store & iTunes
Cost: Free Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd Available: The App Store & iTunes
For Phonics and Print Awareness Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st
ALPHA WRITER Cost: $7.99
Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st
Available: The App Store & iTunes
DYSLEXIA TOOLBOX Cost: $1.49 Grade Level: 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes
ELKONIN BOXES
SPEAK IT! TEXT TO SPEECH
Cost: $1.49
Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd
Cost: $2.99 Grade Level: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes
POCKETPHONICS STORIES
WORD WIZARD: TALKING MOVABLE ALPHABET AND SPELLING TEST FOR KIDS
Available: The App Store & iTunes
Cost: $26.99
Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st, 2nd
Available: The App Store & iTunes
Cost: $7.99 Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th Available: The App Store & iTunes
Warming Up to Reading and Writing Life is busy. And hectic. And exhausting. Often it seems easier just to let the kids play with the tablet rather than spend time reading to them, reciting their spelling words, helping them practice cursive writing or asking questions to assist with comprehension. But it is critical that we do, not just when our children are learning to read, but at every age. A recent study reveals that 58 percent of two to three year olds were read to six to seven days a week while only 11 percent of eight and nine year olds were read to that often. So here are some tips to up the reading and writing ante in your household: Make it part of the routine – Aim to have the same amount of time spent on the iPad as is spent reading and writing. For example, if the kids get a half hour of iPad play after school, balance that with a half hour of ‘quiet time’ to focus on educational activities such as reading, writing, spelling, drawing, etc. Use a reward system for everyone – After a week of reciting spelling words, both you and your kids need a break. So reward yourself with a family outing or a treat before getting back on the homework train again next week. Read, write and play with them – Children become readers on the laps on their parents. Whether they are reading a book or playing a comprehension game on the iPad, join in and play along with your child. Bring the lessons to different print forms – It doesn’t always have to be about writing sentences or stories with a pen or pencil. Explore other outlets – chalk on the driveway, magnets on the fridge, Styrofoam in the bath, and yes, even creating cartoons on the IPad. Play with words – BINGO, word searches, crossword puzzles and board games such as ZINGO all allow you to blend learning with play.
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Read aloud and with expression – Prove to them that reading can be fun by making it fun. Bring a book - Always carry a book in your bag. When your child is waiting at the doctor’s office, rather than reaching for the iPhone, give her a book to look through. Plan a monthly “technology free” weekend – This means all phones, iPads and tablets are put in a drawer and hidden until the end of the weekend. Work as a team – Keep the lines of communication open with your child’s teacher. Consider assistance – If you have a child that is falling further and further behind and you just cannot seem to get through, then consider getting him assessed, either through the school or with a private company. Knowing where the problem lies is often the first step to finding the solution. Another route to consider is to look for additional support through a tutoring company. A good tutoring company not only provides extra help but also teaches the parents different learning techniques to help their child succeed. And, most importantly, remember that every child is different. As parents, it is up to us to be there to encourage them to keep going, no matter how long or difficult the journey is. The journey may be taking longer than normal but that’s okay. Enjoy this road to reading and writing together and take as many pit stops as you need.
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PARENTING
pakmag
’s of Life Lessons for Your Children We’ve all been told A is for apple. B is for butterfly. And C is for cat. But there is so much more to life than just learning our ABC’s. These are the life lessons that all children need to learn. And it’s up to us as parents to teach them. So here is our handy guide to the ABC’s of life lessons for all parents out there. How many of these important skills have your children mastered? is for Amusement – teach them to laugh, to joke, to be goofy, to smile, to giggle and to enjoy life for all it is.
is for Negotiation – teach them just how important the fine art of peaceful persuasion can be.
is for Beauty – teach them to see the beauty in everything around them.
is for Optimism – teach them to always look on the bright side (or at least find something positive in every situation)
is for Confidence – teach them to stand tall, to be proud, and to remain strong.
is for Patience – teach them to wait their turn, to put others first and, most importantly, that some things in life are worth waiting for.
is for Dedication – teach them to never give up. The power of persistence and perseverance is something all children need to learn
is for Query – teach them to never stop learning, to never stop asking questions and to never let go of their curious nature.
is for Empathy – teach them to emphasise with others. This is a tricky one for little kids but it is one of the most important qualities to possess.
is for Respect – teach them the importance of respecting all living creatures, no matter how big or small.
is for Forgiveness – teach them the importance of letting go and moving forward. Not being able to forgive only harvests anger and hate.
is for Self-Reliance – teach them to be independent.
is for Gratitude – teach your children how to be grateful for everything they have.
is for Trustworthiness – teach them the importance of telling the truth and maintaining trust in themselves and in others.
is for Help – teach your children to help those in need.
is for Understanding – teach them to respect the values and beliefs of others.
is for Ingenuity – teach them to be resourceful in all aspects of life. Sometimes it’s all about thinking outside the box.
is for Valour – teach your children to put their heart and soul into the things they are passionate about.
is for Justice – teach them the meaning of right and wrong, the importance of justice and give them the confidence to stand up for what they believe in.
if for Wholeheartedness - teach them to be honest, to be open and to be sincere.
is for Kinship – teach them the importance of family. Family is everything, after all.
is for eXploration – teach them the importance to exploring the world around them.
is for Love – teach them the meaning of unconditional love. Or, even better, show them each and every day.
is for Youthfulness – teach your children to never lose their childish side. It’s this youthfulness that keeps us all young at heart.
is for Manners – teach them how a ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ will always go a long way in life.
is for Zealousness – a little enthusiasm goes a long way.
www.pakmag.com.au JUNE 2016
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EDUCATION
Switching on
pakmag
to Science
STORY Dr. Nicole Ezard, Head of Science, TAS
Let’s face it, science isn’t for everyone. Not every child wants to grow up to be a doctor, a veterinarian or in a career that involves science. However, there is no denying that science is around everyone, all of the time. So why should children get involved in science? I suppose the simple answer is, why not? Children are inquisitive by nature; they are interested in how things work and will often take things apart to find out what actually happens. This is science at its most fundamental level. To question, modify, solve and then question again are skills that all children have and are skills that science will encourage. During school, children are exposed to a huge range of activities that promote higher order thinking. From preparatory where students look after stick insects, to year twelve chemistry where students investigate the effects of cooking on levels of Vitamin C in vegetables, science is providing these children with the skills to question the world around them and challenge those ideas that may be flawed.
So how can parents incorporate science into daily activities at home? Here are some suggestions: For nature lovers
For the mechanically minded
A simple idea is to grow some seeds. All you need is a small plate, cottonwool and some seeds. Check out page 44 for our step by step guide.
Perhaps you have an older child at home who likes to take things apart. If you have some old electronic toys or gadgets (phones, keyboards, clocks) that are no longer being used, have your child dismantle the toy or device so they can see how these machines are wired together.
For the curious chemists and cooks From a chemistry perspective, you could bake a cake. Adding different ingredients to make a mixture and asking, “can we separate these?” encourages your child to question chemical processes. Further to that, the baking of a cake involves a whole new range of chemical reactions that may be investigated.
For the budding detectives Create invisible ink using lemon juice and teach your children about the process of oxidation. Simply mix lemon juice with a few drops of water, dip in a cotton bud and write a message onto a piece of white paper. Once the juice dries and the paper is held up to a light bulb, the message will become clear.
Our children are exposed to science through all sorts of media, from the pre-school shows on television (Play School is great for introducing simple science projects to younger generations), to the news reports on the radio. Studying science at school gives children the skills to differentiate fact from fiction and understand how things work. Children want to investigate the world in which they live and we, as parents, just need to take a step in the right direction. Play around with the different branches of science and see what sparks your children’s curiosity.
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AT ANY AGE
pakmag
Fussy Eaters
There is nothing more frustrating than cooking a healthy, delicious meal for the family only for your child to refuse to even try it. According to Better Health Victoria, eight out of 10 Australian parents are concerned about their child’s eating habits while one third of parents worry their child isn’t eating enough. How you handle fussy eaters will depend on the age of your child. Here is what the experts suggest when it comes to handling fussy eating at any age:
Toddlers and Preschoolers:
School Aged:
Tweens and Teens:
Approximately half of all toddlers are classified as “fussy eaters”, meaning they refuse to eat about 50 per cent of the food offered.
Are you kids coming home from school with a lunch box filled with food? Are they complaining that they are hungry but refusing to eat their meals? It’s estimated that one in twenty kids up to age ten are picky eaters.
You probably expect younger children to be picky with their foods but surely they grow out of it by the time they are teens right? Not necessarily.
Here are some tips: Keep calm and try not to stress. Toddlers are not going to starve themselves, even if it seems they hardly eat a thing. Consider a nutritional toddler formula to help ensure they are getting the nutrients they refuse to eat. Be realistic about how much a toddler actually eats. Make food fun – create animal faces and invest in cookie cutters to cut sandwiches, cheese, etc. into amusing shapes. Avoid using bribes to make your child eat – this will end up backfiring in the long run as you can expect your child to want a chocolate every time he finishes a meal. Look into different ways of making meal time fun, such as serving food in ice cube trays or using a plate like Dinner Winner. Limit fruit drinks and juices as it could be filling your toddler up. Stick to a regular meal routine. Assess your child’s food intake over the week, rather than daily.
Try these tips for your older children: Limit distractions – make meal time a TV-free, iPad-free, iPhone-free zone. Ask them to help with the grocery shopping so they pick foods that they would like to try. Just keep away from the lolly aisle.
Try these tips for your tweens and teens: Meal plan together and get them involved in helping to cook and prepare the meals. Being in control of the food that is going on his plate may help him actually eat it rather than just stare at it and sook. Substitute favourites for healthier alternatives – consider sweet potato fries and cauliflower crust pizza.
Keep junk food out of the house altogether (or hidden in a secret stash only you know about) so it’s either eat healthy, or starve. Keep a mental note of some of the things your child seems to enjoy and what textures and tastes turn him off. Don’t make a big deal about his picky eating. Give your child a vitamin to fill any nutritional gaps (just make sure you only are giving them one a day. My kids love them so much I have to hide them).
Listen to what your teen wants and lead by example. Be aware of other issues – eating disorders are common in teens and if you suspect his fussy eating could be linked to an eating disorder, then the time to seek help is now.
Add tomato sauce. For some reason, if it’s dripping in sauce, it appears more edible.
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Fertility Ability
Want a baby? Here’s how to maximise your chances
Around 80 percent of women will become pregnant within the year with regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. But Dr Kaylene Ferguson from Omega Health Medical Centre Cairns says there are a few other tips to help you get knocked up.
“It goes without saying that more sex increases your chances – in fact women who have sex every night will fall pregnant four times faster than those who have sex just once a week,” said Dr Ferguson.
“After 40, there are additional complications,” said Dr Ferguson, “such as a higher chance of miscarriage, birth defects, and still birth. You’re also more likely to need to give birth by caesarean.
“But fertility varies from person to person and, while you’re highly likely to fall pregnant within 12 months of seriously trying, up to 15 percent of couples will experience some difficulties.
“That being said, if you’ve already had a baby before that age, it will be much easier to conceive,” she said.
“It’s important to understand your body, your personal reproductive cycle, and how your health and lifestyle impact on your fertility,” she said. Research shows that your most fertile years for starting a family are between the ages of 18 and 32. From that point, your fertility reduces by up to eight percent every year and, by the time you hit 40, there’s a 50 percent chance you’re no longer fertile.
The best time for conception
“It’s the 6 days – called the ‘fertile window’ – leading up to your ovulation when you’re most likely to conceive,” she said.
Tips to improve your fertility • Drink less alcohol and caffeine • Stop smoking • Eat healthy to maintain a healthy weight
Dr Ferguson says: “Approximately once every month your ovaries produce at least one mature egg – this is called ‘ovulation’.
• Engage in moderate (not
“For women with 28 days between periods, ovulation typically happens on day 14. Those who have longer cycles of around 35 days will ovulate around 21 days after their period. And women with shorter cycles of around 21 days ovulate around 7 days after their period.
“If you’ve been living a healthy life
excessive) physical exercise • Reduce stress in your life
and trying for at least a year but you’re still not pregnant, that’s the point when you should talk to your doctor for a referral to a fertility specialist,” said Dr Ferguson. “Otherwise, happy baby-making!”
Fertility Myths Busted! Can the jocks your partner wears or the position you lay after intercourse really make a difference in terms of fertility? According to the experts, not in the slightest!
Tight jocks can impact fertility
Sexual positions make a difference
You’ve probably heard that tighty whiteys are a no-go for
No study has confirmed that there is a special position to use when trying to conceive because every woman’s body is different.
aspiring dads-to-be as the tightness of the jocks can raise scrotal temperature and cause a decrease in sperm count. While it is true that very high temperatures can be harmful to sperm, your partner’s choice of underwear does not heat things up enough to make an impact.
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Furthermore, flipping yourself upside down or lying with your feet in the air after sex will not help you conceive. So lay back and relax! No head stands necessary.
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SY ND AL IA DE SI GN ER BA GS FO R M UM S WIN
WIN
WEB www.syndalia.com RRP $389.00
is the perfect gift for This gorgeous designer nappy bag provides mums with a alia new mums and mums to be! Synd nappy bags that -end high ern, mod of superlative collection ionable. are as functional as they are fash n't mean you lose your style! Just because you're a mum, does www.syndalia.com at e rang e You can view their whol
ROMPER STOMPER KIDS FEIYUE WINGS TODDLER SNEAKER WEB www.romperstomper.com.au RRP $79.95 The Feiyue range are a super cool lightweight canvas shoe that blend style, comfort and a novelty design that first walkers and confident walkers will love. Romper Stomper Kids is an online boutique specialising in high quality shoe brands for babies, toddlers and kids aged 0 - 5 yrs.
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NURSING MAMA ESSENTIAL BAMBOO SINGLETS WEB www.nursingmama.com.au RRP $54.95 The collection of Nursing Mama essentials wasn't designed for any reason than for mums to colour their lives with soft, delicate colourful nursing wear that can be coupled with any type of clothing. Choose from Radiance in Yellow, Calmness in Teal, Tranquility in Royal Blue or Balance in Charcoal Gray and Fearlessness in Black. The essential singlet for every mum made from Bamboo viscose, gentle and delicate to wear and touch.
THE WHAT, WHY, WHEN OF SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME (SIDS) STORY Hannah Whiteaker
About 90 percent of cases of SIDS happen in the first six months of a baby’s life. Very few deaths from SIDS occur after a year – although this has occurred in children of various ages.
W H Y D OE S I T HAPPEN? No one knows exactly what causes SIDS, but it is thought to be the result of a combination of factors. Experts believe SIDS occurs at a particular stage in a baby’s development, and that it affects babies who are vulnerable to certain environmental
WHAT CAN YOU DO? • Follow the Safe Sleep Guidleines (www.sidsandkids.org/safe-sleeping), sleeping your baby on their back even if it is not always the easiest option. By following these guidelines you are greatly reducing the risk of your baby dying from SIDS; however there are cases of SIDS where safely slept babies have still passed away.
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W H E N D OE S IT HAPPEN?
Babies who die of SIDS are thought to have developmental deficiencies in the way they respond to these stresses and how they regulate their heart rate, breathing and temperature.
Su
SIDS is a diagnosis that's made when an apparently healthy baby dies, without warning, and for no clear reason after autopsy.
stresses such as tobacco smoke, getting tangled in bedding, overheating, minor illness or having a breathing obstruction.
Da
W H AT I S I T?
e tS os N IDS and Kids Red
• SIDS charity, “River’s Gift” advocate the use of breathing monitors such as the Snuza Hero which allows you to know within 20 seconds should your baby stop breathing. Timing is critical when it comes to saving your baby’s life as an infant can be brain dead after 90 seconds with no oxygen. • It is important that parents learn CPR so that they can help their child in an emergency.
W H AT I S TH E FUT URE? In November 2011, a healthy, safely-slept baby named River passed away due to SIDS. River’s Gift was formed shortly after and is now the largest source of non-government funding for SIDS research. Together with the Cooper Trewin SUDC Research Fund, Rivers Gift have provided funding for a young Australian researcher to study at Boston Children’s Hospital in the United States. Having completed almost 10 months of her fellowship, Ms Emma Giles is involved in projects investigating the causes of sudden death in paediatrics including SIDS and SUDC. The goal is to find a suitable test that can be performed on newborn babies to identify those at risk of SIDS. However, until there is a test available, all parents need to be aware that this can happen to any baby. For more information please contact River’s Gift: www.riversgift.com
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Learn and Grow with
SCIENCE FUN! Children learn by watching and doing which is why science projects are so great for teaching children about the world around them. There are plenty of different science projects online designed for toddlers, pre-schoolers and school-aged children.
Here are two fun science projects to do at home that focus on the magical world of plant-life, perfect for scientists of all ages.
Thanks to www.growingajeweledrose.com for the great craft ideas.
Flower Power Delight in this fun floral experience that blends colour and magic (well, science, not magic). This experiment is great for teaching children about plants and flowers and brings a level of anticipation and excitement to every day! Your kids will delight in waking up every morning to see if the flowers have changed at all. YOU NEED: White flowers (roses, carnations, daisies, etc.), food colouring, glasses or vases, scissors TO MAKE: 1. Trim the flowers down so that they fit nicely in a vase or glass (or flask). 2. Fill your vases with water and add a few drops of the various colours of food colouring to each glass. 3. Add a flower to each vase and place the vases in a sunny spot. 4. As the flowers drink the water, they will start to change colour. TIPS: Ask the kids to make predictions about what will happen. Observe the flowers for two weeks to see the most drastic change.
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BEFORE
AFTER
Watch Me Grow
Bring science and reading together with this fairy tale science project. Grow a magic beanstalk and rediscover the tale that brought the bean (and the magic) to life. YOU NEED: A jar, cotton balls, a dry lima bean, water and a sunny window TO MAKE: 1. Wet (but don’t saturate) several cotton balls and place them in a jar. 2. Wedge a bean between the cotton balls and up against the jar so that your child can easily observe the magic bean growing. 3. Add a few drops of water each day and watch as your beanstalk begins to take form. TIPS: For older children, get them to write down their predictions (hypothesis) about what will happen over the next several days. Your beanstalk should start forming after just one day. After a week it should be coming out of the jar. If this isn’t the case, consider adding a few more drops of water each day or placing it in a more lit area.
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pakmag CELEBRATE
- UNDER -
Under The Sea Party Box Etsy store: OhShinyPaperCo (RRP $83.69)
The Sea With Finding Dory swimming into theatres this month, you can expect an influx of requests for Under the Sea theme parties. We’ve tracked down our favourite finds and party tips to help you host an amusing aqua adventure for your littles ones.
Deep Sea Decorations • Blue and green crepe paper and paper lanterns • Message in a bottle (or sand) centrepieces • Jellyfish and octopus balloons (ribbon tentacles) • “Seaweed” streamers
Sweets and Tasty Treats • Aquatic fairy bread – use all blue hundreds & thousands (you can get these in the baking section) • Crustacean cupcakes with crab, starfish and fish cupcake toppers • Jelly Fish – Mould your jelly into a fish shape. • Starfish bikkies. • Fishy fruit platters – experiment with turtles, octopus, starfish, crabs and more. • Boat shaped sandwiches.
Aquatic Activities • Crab racing – have the kids race on all fours like a crab in the backyard. • Water balloon wars – fill up a bucket of water balloons and let the kids go crazy. • Fish, Fish, Shark – give the classic Duck Duck Goose an oceanic twist. • Find Nemo, Dory and other fish friends – set up an ocean-themed scavenger hunt.
Petit Collage - Pop-Out - Ocean 24 JUNE 2016 www.pakmag.com.au www.earthtoys.net (RRP $14.95)
Floating Whale - Kid O www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $19.95) Lil Sailing Boat www.earthtoys.net (RRP $5.50ea)
Blue Paisley Summer Dolls Dress Etsy store: DebsDollsClothes (RRP $14.00)
Grimm's Sailboat Puzzle www.earthtoys.net (RRP $49.95)
Starfish 3 Piece Set www.okgift.com.au (RRP $15.95)
Icingbits Cake Toppers www.icingbits.com
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TOP TIPS FOR
PARTY SUCCESS It’s easy to get carried away when planning a birthday party. You want everything to be perfect and there are so many awesome party finds out there that are just begging to be bought. So how can you minimise costs and stress and still host a party worth remembering? Here are our ten tips:
1. Plan, plan and plan some more!
5. Start a party box.
You can’t control every aspect of the party. Guests may get sick the day of the party; the weather may not cooperate or you may be faced with a problem with the cake. The best way to ensure success is to stay on top of the things you can control. And the best way to do this is to plan.
You are most likely going to host at least one birthday party a year. And, from that party, you will most likely have some leftover supplies, including candles, lolly bag supplies, balloons, plates, platters, cups and more. Start a birthday box and keep all of these items together. That way, when it’s time to plan another party, you can go to the box, make a list of what you already have and go from there.
2. Have a checklist and a backup plan. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, make sure you have an alternative venue, even if it’s just inside your house rather than at the park. It is also a good idea to have a basic checklist to help ensure you don’t forget anything. Here’s a few things to remember: • Create a guest list • Send invitations • Organise a venue • Book the entertainment • Shop for supplies (party favours, decorations, requirements for any games) • Order birthday cake (or decide on what you will make) • Purchase food • Set up decorations • Buy party ice
6. Welcome your guests. Make it your mission to greet every guest (or as many as you can) as they walk into the party.
7. Have music on hand. Create a playlist that is appropriate for your guests to keep on in the background. This adds an extra ambience to the party.
8. Choose the right time. Many birthday parties and small gathering will not include a main meal and this is okay. If you want to avoid having to serve your guests a large meal with several courses, then avoid having the party at between 12 and 1.00pm (typically lunch time) and 5.00pm to 7.00pm (dinner).
3. Know your guests.
9. Have a somewhat set agenda in place.
If your guests have any food intolerances or special requests, find out about them beforehand.
You don’t have to have every ten minutes planned but it is a good idea to have a slight itinerary including when to do the games, when to bring out the cake and whether you want to open presents at the party or not.
4. Simplify. Stick to the basics when it comes to decorations, themes and sweets and treats. Doing too much or trying to make things too complex can lead to unwanted stress as well as extra costs. It’s always fun to have a theme but this is often when it gets expensive. Stick to two colours to help make things easier if you do want to colour code the party.
10. Keep the lolly bags at the door. So often, in the disarray of the party, you will forget to pass out the lolly bags, especially to guests that leave a little early. Have the party bags somewhere close by so you don’t forget them (but hidden from the kids who may dig into the loot before the party is over).
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WINTER FASHION As the cool weather arrives it’s time to update our wardrobes with warm winter wear. This season’s fashion trends are tassels and ankle boots and colours to consider include teal, red and tan.
Selected items available at www.sportsgirl.com.au
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pakmag HOME
YO UR HO M E
WITH THE BLOCK’S CARO & KINGI I think it’s safe to say that we all struggle with too much stuff. It’s inevitable. Whether you fall under the category of an over-the-top organiser or are more of a happy hoarder, these ten tips are guaranteed to help you simplify your stuff and declutter your home.
1.
Set up a ‘where did I put that?’ box This is where the things you consistently need every day including keys, sunnies, lip balm, phones, chargers, etc.
2.
Find a spot for incoming papers Incoming papers are one of the easiest things to store in a corner and ignore, including mail, artwork, school letters, etc. Store papers in a box or basket and make it a habit to go through this area every Saturday or Sunday when you have a spare ten minutes.
3.
Make over your make up area Keep only the items that you use on a regular basis and bin the dried eye shadow, the ugly lipstick and the foundation from three years ago. Having only the essential items on hand makes it much easier to get ready for the day.
4.
Set up a family decluttering schedule Take thirty minutes every weekend to declutter or clean up as a family whether it’s cleaning the bedrooms, going through an old toy box or shelf or sorting through a closet. This teaches the kids to help pick up after themselves and also allows you to outsource some of the decluttering tasks.
5.
Austin Toy Box www.earthtoys.net (RRP $174.95)
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Mainw Pidgeon Shelving www.earlysettler.com.au (RRP $499.00)
Make an organisation station for the kids A bookcase or cupboard can double as a station for the kid’s school shoes, book bags, backpacks, hats, jackets and more. This makes the morning rush a little less hectic.
6.
Use boxes, bins and baskets This helps ensure everything has a home. You can store pretty much anything in boxes and baskets including books, toys, stuffed animals, shoes and more.
7.
Create a craft corner Art and craft supplies must be one of the hardest things to keep tidy. Have a home for paint, brushes, play dough and clay, paper, crayons, pens and check it regularly to ensure the area remains tidy.
8.
Do a once-a-month charity drop Pick an area of the house to go through (closet, shelves, cupboards) and drop off anything that you don’t use and that is in good condition to the salvos.
9.
Declutter your electronic devices If your inbox is filled with unfiled emails, spam and unopened newsletters, take an hour a day to go through each account. You should also aim to keep your iPads and other electronic devices organised by binning the apps you don’t use anymore, backing up photos and making folders for the various documents you have created.
10.
Clear out your medicine cabinet This area can be a decluttered ticking time bomb, especially when you need something in a rush. Bin the out-of-date prescriptions, the dirty-looking bandages and the creams without a lid.
Cancun Basket www.fantasticfurniture.com.au (RRP $19.95)
Try a few of these tricks this weekend and see if it makes a difference to your home.
House Shelves Blue www.ellej.com.au (RRP $99.95)
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