PakMag Mackay - June 2014 by Grand Publishing

pakmag JUN 2014

Mackay & Whitsundays

EzEine FMRaga

ISSUE 20

Jody Euler Discovering Aspergers

Kids

MINI MAG Inside

Local mum talks about

Cover photo: Catherine Zamparutti

living with Aspergers

Identity CRISIs Why Mum's should have time away from the kids

Event

Guide

Complete Guide of June Events

win 40 Family Cinema Passes to be Won

Details page 23

03 39 15

welcome

Contents

note

Hello everyone and welcome to our June edition. Well, it has been an eventful month for me which was topped off by my slipping over in the supermarket and breaking my arm. Ouch! This month we’d like to thank the fabulous Jody Euler from RedHotBlue who not only agreed to be interviewed for our story about living with a child with Aspergers, but organised her family for this month’s cover shoot. Jody will be hosting renowned Aspergers expert Tony Attwood in Mackay in September. We’ve got two events happening in Mackay this month – the Teddy Bear’s Picnic on 15 June and our PakPanel at Caneland Central’s Mummy Central on 17 June. They’re both free events so we’d love to see you all there. In the meantime, have a great month and remember to tell everyone you read it in PakMag!

Ange

pakmag Publisher: Bree James Editor: Elaine Seager Regional Sales Manager: Tammy Parsons Publication Manager: Angela Julian NQ Sales & Biz Development: Angelina Mortley Graphic Designer: Trina Jensen Assistant graphic Designer: Sara Williams Articles: Elaine Seager, Jutta Dempsey, Amanda Cranston and submitted writers

JUNE

parents 02 What’s New 05 Show & Tell 06 Identity Crisis 09 Discovering Aspergers 11

Mackay Christian College

13 Tech Talk 15 PakHealth 16 Nutrition 19 PakRecipes

kids 23 Kid’s MiniMag

babies 33 Baby News: The Fourth Trimester

things to win

20 Top 5 Things To Do

WIN V8 Supercar Tickets

21 What’s On

WIN Movie Tickets

23 Mini Mag

34 WIN a Closer to Nature Pack

30 Out & About

35 WIN a MummaBubba Necklace

33 PakBaby 37 The Parenting Journey 3 39 Billabong Sanctuary 40 Fav Pets 43 HOME 44 HOME: Colours 47 HOME: BOLD Before & After 48 HOME: DIY

cover ModelS: Jody-lee Euler, Piper Rose Euler and Tia Jayde Euler Photography: Thanks to Catherine Zamparutti

Mobile: 0427 725 624 Head office Phone: 4053 3331 Email: mackay@pakmag.com.au Postal: PO Box 1922, Mackay Qld 4740 Disclaimer: No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The expressions expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

Find PakMag exclusively in:

www.pakmag.com.au

inBRIEF

Zestio Pouch Topper

June what’s new

NEW

Spoonful of Sugar Vroom Vroom!

WIN

V8 Supercars 4-6 July

NEW

Teddy Bear's Picnic

Why not WOW your guests at your next party or special occasion with a candy and beverage bar? Kim at Just a Spoonful of Sugar has a fantastic range of glass lolly jars, drink dispensers,

After having her children local mum Krystal Caton was inspired to create two new innovative

This year’s Castrol Townsville 500 event promises to be

cake stands and platters, along with all the necessary scoops, tongs and fun decorations to

products that she now sells through her business, Zestio. The Zestio Reusable Food Pouch is

bigger and better than ever before. For the first time,

make your occasion one to remember. Contact Kim on kim.landells@gmail.com

an affordable and eco-friendly resealable food storage pouch that is perfect for filling with

the event will showcase the all-new Super Top featuring

nutritious foods such as purees, soups and yoghurts, and the Zestio Pouch Topper is soothing

house music, bars, food stalls, eating and shade during

attachment used for pouch feeding. Both are made from BPA free materials. For more

the day. On Saturday night, it will play host to Jessica

information go to www.zestio.com.au or call Krystal on 0419 023 288.

Mauboy and Vanessa Amorosi. The Disney Fun Zone also

Mummy central - PakPanel

15 June (10am-1pm) Queens Park

returns trackside with more new and exciting interactive activities. Kids 14 and under receive free trackside

Deja Vu Teddies

admission with a paying adult (one child per ticket).

17 June (9am-12pm)

Our annual Teddy Bears Picnic is coming up this

For your chance to win a 3-day trackside

Caneland Central, Outside Jamaica Blue

month to raise funds for the Give Me 5 for Kids campaign to support the local children’s ward. There

family pass (2 adults & 2 children under 14 years)

will be heaps of entertainment, stalls and activities.

simply go to our website to enter our competition.

Mr Magic Shows

Caneland Central’s next Mummy Central event on 17 June will feature our next PakPanel (10am-

If your business would like to be a part of it you can

11am) with special guest speakers Jody-Lee Euler from RedHotBlue who will be talking about

book a stall by going to www.pakmag.com.au. We

living with a child with Aspergers, Bob Robinson from Queensland Country Credit Union will be

are also looking for performers, volunteers and prizes

sharing advice on ways families can save money and Sam, the Head Chef at Jamaica Blue, will be

so please email us at promotions@pakmag.com.au

talking about lunchbox ideas. There will also be facepainting and balloon artistry for the kids.

if you are able to help out.

1-4 July Mackay Libraries

The Libraries will be hosting ‘Mr. Magic’, a 45-minute show filled with fun and illusions in the upcoming school holidays. Bookings are essential. Contact your local library from 16 June. • Walkerston Library - 1 July (10am) - 4959 2545 • Mirani Library - 1 July (2pm) - 5961 9231 If you feel like it’s time for a nice new teddy to bring along to our Teddy Bear’s Picnic on 15

• Gordon White Library - 2 July (10am) - 4961 9300

June, pop into Deja Vu on Sydney Street. They are an exclusive stockist of Bukowski Bears and

• Mackay City Library - 3 July (10am) - 4961 9387

soft toys from Sweden. These very special bears are collector’s items that come with their own name and individual character. Prices range from $29.95 to $59.95.

www.pakmag.com.au

• Sarina Library - 4 July (10am) - 4961 9297 www.pakmag.com.au

Show &Tell

The latest news, products and tips in the world of families and kids My Business

Mummy Central Clu

Free Coffee

Voucher

MUMMY CENTRAL CLUB MEMBERS Present this voucher and your Mummy Central Card at Jamaica Blue between 9am and 12pm on 17 June to redeem your free coffee or tea. (One coupon per person)

Offer is for Mummy Central Club members only. If you are not yet a member it is very simple to join. All you need to do is fill out an application form from the Customer Service Desk or sign up online at www.canelandcentral.com.au

pakmag

NEW Book As the owner of Maximum Health Chiropractic, Daniel Bank is passionate about helping others achieve good health. He is also step-dad to Ben and Sheri, and dad to Adam. [1] Tell us a bit about your business? I purchased Maximum Health Chiropractic in 2010. Our mission is to help as many people in our lifetime as possible, especially children. [2] What made you become a Chiropractor? I grew up in a very medically oriented family - my father was a Professor who taught Graduate students and Medical Students. I learned through first hand observation how they are educated to believe that health comes from the outside in ie. in the form of medication or surgery. Chiropractic was the exact opposite and focuses on health coming from the inside out by improving the communication between the brain and the body.

[3] Who inspired you as a child? I was always a big fan of The Peaceful Warrior. In the story the student asks why www.pakmag.com.au

the Master works in a service station and he replies “because the highest purpose is service to others.” [4] How would your friends and family describe you? Devoted husband, father, and Chiropractor! [5] What do you love about living in Mackay? I grew up in South Carolina and have lived in big cities like Atlanta and Detroit, so I love the small intimate nature of Mackay. It is so nice to run into people you know every time you go out. Sometimes I think of Mackay as being like Cheers... ’Where everybody knows your name!’

Quick and Clever Party Cakes (revised edition) By Lindy Smith Amazing cake creations ranging from caterpillars and fish through to sharks, fighter jets, space

Maximum Health Chiropractic is located at Suite 7, Mt Pleasant Plaza. For more information call 4942 2666.

monsters and princesses. There are 20 inspirational cake designs with step-by-step instructions and stunning photographs to help you create your own masterpiece. RRP $19.99 www.pakmag.com.au

By Amanda Cranston

or many new mums, motherhood is

Mums, of course, shouldn’t have to feel that

so overwhelming and all-consuming,

their role as a parent means they have to give up

that it leaves them feeling like they’ve

their own dreams, interests, hobbies, passions

forgotten who they were before they had kids.

and friends to be a good mum. Yet many mums

Days are filled catering to their new baby with

do feel this way and become so consumed with

mundane routines around feeding and sleeping,

trying to be a good mum that they give up on

often without time for a shower, to get dressed

their own interests and stop taking time for

or even get out of the house, and yet before

themselves. This can result in feelings of guilt

baby came along they juggled a successful

when they eventually start wanting to reclaim

career and a busy social life. So it’s no wonder

part of their old life back.

new mums can sometimes find motherhood lonely and isolated. Psychologist Jutta Dempsey explains that for many new parents, especially those who were high achievers and busy in their careers, having their first child is like a lunar landing. “All life as it was before grinds to an immediate and severe halt with a bewildering wilderness of

So what can mums do to make sure they don’t lose their sense of identity during motherhood? Firstly, they need to stop setting such high expectations for themselves. “Reduce your expectations of what you think you should be feeling, stay in tune with your baby and accept that the way you feel is quite normal,” Jutta says.

sleeplessness, feeding, loss of fitness, messy

Making a conscious effort to make time for

house and no social life surrounding them 24/7,”

yourself away from your baby or kids is also

she says. “And when the new baby does not fit

important whether it’s walking the dog, taking

the ‘mould’ the loss of identity a mum feels can

an exercise class, reading a book in the bath,

be even more pronounced.”

having a massage or meeting girlfriends for coffee where the conversation doesn’t revolve

Motherhood does not always meet a woman’s

around baby talk. And, if your own needs have

preconceived expectations and many can be

been put on the backburner for a while, try

left feeling unfulfilled, exhausted and resentful

setting some personal goals, whether it’s around

when it doesn’t live up to their ideal. While

fitness, study, career or creative aspirations.

being a wife and mother are wonderful roles to

New Baby Identity Crisis

have, many women don’t want to be defined by

Having a baby is one of life’s greatest gifts but it

them. Once they’re on maternity leave without

doesn’t have to define who you are or stop you

their career and job title, it can be a struggle

living your own life. You can be a mum, a wife,

maintaining their own sense of identity separate

have a career or run a business too if you choose;

from motherhood. And, as your identity changes

it all comes down to balance and knowing what

and the old ‘you’ fades away, some women

you want. By reconnecting with who you are,

then feel guilty for wanting more than ‘just’

you’ll have renewed energy for your children,

motherhood.

your husband and your life in general.

Tips for rediscovering yourself :

Now? Who am I

After having a baby many new mums go through a bit of an identity crisis and while it’s often not talked about it is incredibly common

• Set manageable expectations about motherhood • Make time for yourself without baby • Make an effort to have adult conversations without talk of babies • Set some personal goals or milestones for yourself • Make time for you and your husband without baby • Try find a balance between ‘mum time’ and ‘me time’

and very normal. 6

www.pakmag.com.au

By Elaine Seager

Kids Issues

DiscoveringAspergers Children each have their own unique little quirks but Mackay businesswoman Jody Euler began to suspect that she was dealing with more than the ‘terrible twos’ with her daughter’s tantrums. It wasn't one particular event, but a collection of

their own interests but excluding other learning

Jody says her biggest challenge as a parent is

them that made Jody and her husband question

and being more interested in sensory experiences

having enough structure for Tia so that she feels

what was going on with their first daughter Tia.

than everyday learning.

supported, but leaving enough room for flexibility

“It's hard to comprehend a child who is advanced in development, yet challenging in behaviour. Tia could fully dress herself and speak words beyond her years, yet if she was given the wrong coloured plate at dinnertime it could result in a meltdown.”

Tia’s diagnosis was the start of a big learning curve for Jody who has travelled extensively to learn from the best experts. Attending numerous workshops, seminars and group sessions for children, she believes that arming yourself with

The arrival of baby sister Piper, resulted in

as much knowledge as possible is the best way

some big changes and Tia’s behaviour became

to support children with Aspergers. Last year she

unmanageable. It was then that Jody realised they

even hosted an Aspergers event in Mackay to

had more than a stubborn, independent two year

raise awareness in the region, to which she invited

old on their hands, but they were still unprepared

renowned Aspergers expert, Professor Tony

for the diagnosis. “At the time we hadn't even

Attwood to come and speak.

heard of Aspergers Syndrome, so it was a big shock when the Paediatrician started speaking about ASD - Autism Spectrum Disorder.”

Along the way Jody has learnt a number of strategies that have made a significant difference to Tia’s behaviour by making sure

Aspergers Syndrome sits on the Autism Spectrum

she is adequately prepared before anything

and can present in a number of different ways.

new or different happens. This means finding

Commonly it involves difficulty in social, vocal

creative ways to communicate with her, using

and intellectual development. Some of the typical

stories to reduce anxiety and using comic strip

traits that children may have include; difficulty

conversations or puppets to talk about challenges

relating to others and being socially awkward,

or feelings without direct verbal dialogue. Jody

preferring their own company instead of playing

also says that there is now an amazing array of

with other kids, delayed speech and difficulty with

apps that have proved useful.

so their younger daughter Piper can be herself. Jody also says that Piper has played a special role in Tia’s life. “Thanks to the affection Piper has always shown, Tia has had time to observe and learn. Where she would once run from cuddles and kisses, she now accepts them…‘but no kisses please, they are disgusting!’.”

2-Day Discovering Aspergers Event World-renowned Aspergers Syndrome expert, Professor Tony Attwood returns to Mackay as a guest speaker between 12-13 September for a special 2-day Discovering Aspergers event. Held over two days, the event will feature targeted seminars for education and medical professionals as well as parents and carers for those on the spectrum. Tickets available at: www.redevents.com.au

casual conversation, being intensely focused on

www.pakmag.com.au

Written by Dr Craig Murison

Timesare

Changing

Mackay Christian College turned 30 at the start of this year. When the children who are born this year celebrate their thirtieth birthdays the world will be a very different place than it is today. It is worth considering the magnitude of the

on the telephone there was no message bank for

many more people as the intravascular stent had

changes that have occurred since the College

you to leave a message.

not been developed.

Taking and keeping photographic records of

There was no internet and very few homes had

family, holidays and other important events, was

personal computers. Those that did could not

In 1984 most people received their news in the

expensive. It required purchasing a film and then

be connected to other systems and most had no

form of a newspaper delivered daily to their door.

paying for them to be developed and printed

more than 64 kilobytes of memory.

That newspaper was printed by a team of people

at a specialist shop. Videos had become more

who manually loaded metal letters onto rails that

common but were large, difficult to store and

were then inked and printed in a press.

had a limited shelf life.

Hand written letters, now called snail mail,

In the last 30 years the developments in medical

were the most common form of written

science have been remarkable. Diabetes was

communication sent via the postal system. There

largely untreatable before 1983 when human

was no email or text messaging and phones

insulin became available for the first time.

largely still had rotary dials. If you called someone

Coronary artery disease claimed the lives of

started as a way to gauge the enormity of the changes that may lie ahead.

www.pakmag.com.au

The amount of information in the world is now doubling every two years.

As parents and schools we are working in partnership to prepare our children for a world that will look very different than the one we live in today!

www.pakmag.com.au

TECH Talk Fone Home

iPad Addicted?

While technology is a part of modern life the general consensus among experts seems to be that technology is like junk food for children – okay in moderation. However, mental health professionals are seeing an increase in children (especially teens) over-dosing on internet use and they’re calling it Pathological Internet Use. So how do you know when your child’s use of technology is becoming excessive? Here are the signs to look out for: [1] Withdrawal – they become irritable, anxious or sad after the iPad is taken away. [2] Tolerance – if they need to spend longer and longer amounts of time on the iPad to be happy, it’s a sign of addiction. [3] Loss of interest – they are losing interest in their other hobbies such as sport.

Safe New Mobile for Kids Own Fone has launched a fantastic mobile phone for kids that only has pre-programmed numbers in it chosen by you. There’s no texting, internet, apps or camera, so it’s perfect for parents who want to be able to contact their kids but don’t want the worry of associated with smart phones. Each phone has it’s own mobile number with cheap plans available. It’s perfect for emergency use if your child’s soccer practice is running late, ballet has finished early or they need to be picked up from school or miss the bus. A great option for families who are not yet ready to give their kids their own mobile phone but want the convenience of being able to contact them. For more information go to www.ownfone.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

[4] Lack of control – meltdowns when you take the device off them.

[5] Deception – sneaking the iPad away or hiding while they’re using it are bad signs. [6] Emotional use – emotional eaters deal with difficult emotions by eating, if your child copes with negative emotions by numbing out on the iPad it is a cause for concern. [7] Detaching – performing poorly at school and losing friends could be a sign that your child is detaching from the outside world. If your child is showing any of these signs, it’s time to set some rules and boundaries regarding their use of technology and encourage them to get involved in other activities.

APPS for Tots The Institute of Early Childhood at Macquarie University has found that spending too much time playing the ‘wrong’ kind of computer games could delay a child's development. They discovered that 85 per cent of the apps bought for young children were just “drill and practice” games that don’t require any input from the child. Consequently they have recommended parents choose apps that require children to create something from scratch rather than just rewarding them for practising a task. Examples include Play School Art Maker, My Story, Explain Everything and Creatorverse. www.pakmag.com.au

Health pak

Exercise: It takes two...

By Narelle Muller

news

Fever

By Dr Manda Brits, Dial-a-Local Doctor

Body temperature varies depending on the time of day or night and the activities we’re engaged in. While temperature readings vary according to the method it’s taken, generally speaking, any reading between 36.1 to 37.5 ⁰C is considered to be normal. If the body temperature is elevated above this range various symptoms begin to occur from sweating and feeling uncomfortable at 38°C all the way through to fainting, vomiting, severe headache, dizziness, confusion,

The idea of getting your running shoes on doesn’t appeal? Can’t afford the gym and couldn’t find time even if you wanted to?

What to do if a person has a temperature higher than 39⁰C: [1] Remove as much clothes as possible – even if the

Before you could say “on yer bike” she then

and more for not exercising, but still, she

grabbed a baby bicycle seat off Gumtree

had an honest yearning to get into shape.

and we began the second phase of her new

[2] If younger than 5 years:

Despite many obstacles, we arrived at

fitness program. This involves a daily ride

something this young mum could do with

to the park, which of course her son enjoys

her bub to get her daily dose of cardio

immensely and they have begun a journey

and all-over body toning - and the answer

of discovery, trying new playgrounds, even

was right under her nose - the backyard

further afield as her fitness levels progress. There are many ways to build exercise into

person complains that they are cold

• Wrap child in a wet towel and stand under a

ceiling fan set at its highest setting.

• Take their temperature every two minutes until

it drops to 38°C, usually within 5-6 minutes.

• Give Panadol or Nurofen as per weight/age.

• Get child to your GP or a hospital asap

By purchasing an inexpensive blow-up

your day while still enjoying time with

baby swimming ring, she could motor up

young children. Sometimes all it takes is a

[3] Older than 5 years:

and down and around the pool pushing

bit of lateral thinking.

the little one, while kicking with her legs and engaging her core, getting her heart rate up and consequently burning fat and building muscle. www.pakmag.com.au

is considered a medical emergency.

I recently had a client with all these excuses

swimming pool.

hallucinations and drowsiness. A temperature of 41°C

• Put them in a bath with lukewarm water or

under a cold shower until their temperature Narelle Muller is a journalist, health writer and qualified personal trainer.

drops to below 38°C

• Give Panadol or Nurofen as per age

• Get medical advice www.pakmag.com.au

Nutrition pak

Review Food

"I'm Hungry!"

Tuckers Tiny Dippers

by Connie Eales

Food

Whenever I would shout ‘’I’M HUNGRY!’’ as a child my father would always say “No you’re not, you’re Connie!’’ Funny(-ish), but it doesn’t solve one of the most common problems faced by parents. This comment would swiftly be followed up

• Make sure other important foods are not

by my mother saying “Have a piece of fruit

being sacrificed such as low fat dairy and

then.’’ Fruit is often the go-to snack for a lot

low GI breads and cereals

of households so many people have been

review

• Fruit contains sugar, so regular teeth

asking lately, whether there is such a thing

washing is a must to prevent dental caries

as too much fruit for kids?

and decay

Fruit is essential for children of all ages. The

Made in Australia, Tuckers Tiny Dippers are a healthy

• Whole fruit is the best choice – try to

snack with a big flavour punch. The packet contains

choose fresh before concentrated fruit

a serve of crunchy, nutty, quinoa crackers and a

sources such as fruit juice, fruit straps and

delicious dipping sauce – a choice of corn dip,

fruit soaked in syrup

tomato salsa and green tomato salsa. They contain no

over eight years old, two serves per day.

• Frozen fruit and packaged fruit in natural

artificial flavours, artificial colourings or preservatives,

These are guidelines only, every child is

juices is a great way to enjoy fruit not in

different so it may be appropriate for you

season

current guidelines suggest children aged one to three require one serve per day, children aged four to eight should aim for one and a half serves per day and anyone

child to exceed this.

• If you’re child is sedentary or has issues

• Encourage regular physical activity to make sure the sugar is being put to good use

Connie Eales is an Accredited Practising

with weight management, stick to the

Things to consider for a big fruit eater:

so they’re a great option for children with allergies.

required number of serves so they don’t miss out on essential vitamins and minerals

Dietitian. You can connect with Health Management and ask Connie questions on Facebook.

seeing Readers Question: I have been loves acai everywhere lately. My friend ys alwa she says and s othie them in smo a they Are ler. todd her shares them with ing shar be also I superfruit and should ler? them in a smoothie with my todd

www.pakmag.com.au

r fruits. Ah yes, the wonderful world of supe ts xidan antio in er high Yes, they are often nsive expe less even than other fruits but

berry, berries, such as blueberry and straw with fit into this category. The key thing fruit is to focus on a variety since each

Q&A

nutritionadvice

of one has its own unique combination okay inly certa it’s So rals. mine and vitamins t don’ but diet your to es to add acai berri are kids as far As n. optio make it your only r taste concerned, acai berries have a bitte them. like t won’ on their own so a lot of kids

www.pakmag.com.au

pakmag TEAM

pakmag TEAM Favourite Watermelon Cake By Bree James (Publisher) Ingredients: • Whipped cream or coconut whipped cream • 1 large watermelon

pakmag

TEAM recipe

• Blueberries • Raspberries • Kiwi Fruit • Almonds

Bree's Fave "This is a great healthy option for birthday cakes and suitable for people with food allergies."

Method: In just 10 minutes you can make this healthy yummy dessert. [1] Cut the watermelon into a circlular shape like a cake. [2] Dry the watermelon by patting down with paper towel. [3] Whip your cream then cover the watermelon in the cream, making sure to work quickly as the cream can melt. [4] Place the almonds on the outside of the cake. [5] Decorate with raspberries, blueberries and kiwi fruit.

www.pakmag.com.au

PICNIC

in the Park

29 June (10am-1pm) Mulherin Park

Courtney'S PICK MACKAY

Show

Mackay Showgrounds It’s Show Time again this month with three days of non-

Mackay Birth Centre's 20th Birthday at the end of June.

stop entertainment, interesting displays and exhibits,

There will be kids entertainment, cake, a sausage sizzle and

along with the ever-popular Sideshow Alley and night-

lots more. If you are a current or past birth centre family,

time fireworks spectacular. For more information go to

midwife or member of the Friends of the Birth Centre, they

www.mackayshow.com.au

would love you to go along and share your stories.

Things to do in MKY

Mummy Central

PakPanel

17 June (9am-12pm) Caneland Central

Caneland Central’s next Mummy Central event will feature our next PakPanel (10am-11am) with special guest speakers Jody-Lee Euler from RedHotBlue, Bob Robinson from Queensland Country Credit Union and Sam from Jamaica Blue. There will also be facepainting and balloon artistry to keep the kids amused.

PakMag's Teddy

Bear's Picnic

15 June (10am) Queens Park Get your teddies ready for a fun Sunday morning with the family at Queens Park. There will be lots of entertainment and fun as we help raise money for the Give Me 5 for Kids campaign to support the local children’s ward.

OFFSHORE

JUNE 2014 DATE 1/06/14 1/06/14 1/06/14 1/06/14 1/06/14 1/06/14 2/06/14 2/06/14 2/06/14 2/06/14 2/06/14 3/06/14 3/06/14 3/06/14 3/06/14 3/06/14 3/06/14 3/06/14 3/06/14 4/06/14 4/06/14 4/06/14 4/06/14 4/06/14 4/06/14 4/06/14 5/06/14 5/06/14 5/06/14 5/06/14 5/06/14 5/06/14 6/06/14

VENUE Palm Ave, Seaforth Criterion Hotel Grounds Eungella Memorial Hall Bluewater Quay Mackay Botanic Gardens Bluewater Quay, River St Gordon White Library Mirani Library Mackay City Library Mackay Community Health Centre Bucasia state School MECC Auditorium MECC Auditorium MECC Auditorium Mirani Library Sarina Library Walkerston Library Garden Lawn, Botanic Gardens Mackay Community Health Centre Sarina Library Gordon White Library Womens Shelter, Mackay Mackay Community Health Centre Mackay Community Health Centre Andergrove Community Centre Aplus Sport Centre (138 Wood St) Coffee Devine, Pinnacle Andergrove Community Centre MECC Auditorium MECC Auditorium Mackay City Library 3 Range Rd, Sarina Gordon White Library

pink = family

green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Seaforth Markets Finch Hatton Markets Eungella Markets Zumba Baby Welcoming Ceremony Zumba® Fitness Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Infant/child drop-in (0-5 years) Infant/child appointments (0-5 years) Peppa Pig LIVE! Treasure Hunt Peppa Pig LIVE! Treasure Hunt Peppa Pig LIVE! Treasure Hunt Storytime - 2 to 5 years Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Storytime - 2 to 5 years Falun Gong Meditation & Relaxation Infant/child drop-in (0-5 years) Storytime - 2 to 5 years Storytime - 2 to 5 years Parenting Group (0-5 mths) by appointment 4 Year Old Health Checks Hearing Checks for Children 4+ Years Infant/child drop-in (0-5 years) Indoor fitness classes /Booking is essential Pioneer Valley Passport Grand Prize Draw Infant drop in clinic (0-8 week olds) DBCT Young Peoples Theatre Session DBCT Young Peoples Theatre Session Storytime - 2 to 5 years Zumba Fitness Storytime - 2 to 5 years

TIME 8.30am 9.00am 9.00am 9.00am 10.00am 9.00am 9.30am 9.30am 11.00am 9.00am 9.00am 10.30am 1.00pm 3.30pm 9.30am 9.30am 10.30am 9.00am 9.00am 10.00am 10.30am 9.30am 8.30am 1.00pm 9.00am 6.00pm 6.00am 9.00am 10.30am 6.00pm 10.30am 6.00pm 9.30am

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO 4959 0332 4958 3504 4958 4522 www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

www.mackay.qld.gov.au 0439 794575 4961 9300 4961 9231 4961 9387 4968 3863 4968 3863 www.mackaytix.com.au www.mackaytix.com.au www.mackaytix.com.au 4961 9231 4961 9297 4959 2545 4942 9538 4968 3863 4961 9297 4961 9300 4968 3863 4968 3863 4968 3863 4968 3863 0439 794575 4968 3863 www.mackaytix.com.au www.mackaytix.com.au 4961 9387 0439 794575 4961 9300

COST Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Cost Cost Cost Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Cost Cost Free First class free

Free

Superboats

21-22 June

Bowen Foreshore

Speedboat lovers will be in their element this month as Bowen hosts the Offshore Superboat Championships. It promises to be a family affair with kid’s rides, markets, kitesurfing and roller derby displays, vintage cars, helicopter joy rides, and a solo Roulette display. For more information go to Bowen Offshore Superboats on Facebook.

THE GOOD GUYS MACKAY

JOHN Donnelly

Supporting your local community OPEN Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm Saturday 9am-4pm & Sunday 9am-3pm www.thegoodguys.com.au/mackay

www.pakmag.com.au

eventGUIDE

17-19 June

Everyone is welcome to go along and help celebrate

"Live music and FREE muffins as the Pioneer Valley Passport Grand Prize is drawn 5 June."

PHONE 4963 1500 NORTH POINT RETAIL WINDMILL CROSSING www.pakmag.com.au

JOHNNO'S PICKr

"Make sure you bring you Teddies along for PakMag's Picnic on 15 June"

JUNE 2014 DATE 6/06/14 7/06/14 7/06/14 7/06/14 7/06/14 8/06/14 8/06/14 8/06/14 8/06/14 8/06/14 10/06/14 10/06/14 10/06/14 10/06/14 10/06/14 11/06/14 11/06/14 11/06/14 11/06/14 11/06/14 11/06/14 12/06/14 12/06/14 12/06/14 12/06/14 13/06/14 14/06/14 14/06/14 15/06/14 15/06/14 15/06/14 15/06/14 15/06/14

VENUE Harrup Park Beaconsfield State School Hall Milton Street PCYC Mackay Aplus Sport Centre (138 Wood St) MECC Lynette Denny Space Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre Palm Ave, Seaforth Bluewater Quay Bluewater Quay, River St Mirani Library Sarina Library Walkerston Library Garden Lawn, Botanic Gardens Mackay Community Health Centre MECC Auditorium Sarina Library Gordon White Library Mackay Community Health Centre Mackay Community Health Centre Aplus Sport Centre (138 Wood St) MECC North Foyer Mackay City Library Andergrove Community Centre 3 Range Rd, Sarina Gordon White Library Milton Street Aplus Sport Centre (138 Wood St) Queens Park Anzac Ave, Marian Palm Ave, Seaforth PCYC Mackay Bluewater Quay

pink = family

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Kid's Club Disco Party Ladies Twilight Fair Showgrounds Markets Drive In Movie - ET Indoor fitness classes /Booking is essential Gospel Concert 2 By Zion Troppo Treasure Market Seaforth Markets Zumba Zumba Fitness Storytime - 2 to 5 years Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Storytime - 2 to 5 years Falun Gong Meditation & Relaxation Infant/child drop-in (0-5 years) Entertainment Season 2014 - The Magic Hour Storytime - 2 to 5 years Storytime - 2 to 5 years Hearing Checks for Children 4+ Years 4 Year Old Health Checks Indoor fitness classes /Booking is essential Peace Train - The Cat Stevens Story Intimate & Acoustic Storytime - 2 to 5 years Infant drop in clinic (0-8 week olds) Zumba Fitness Storytime - 2 to 5 years Showgrounds Markets Indoor fitness classes /Booking is essential PAKMAG Teddy Bears Picnic Marian Markets Seaforth Markets Bike Rider Course for Migrant Families Zumba

green = kids

TIME

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO 4944 0000

3.00pm 7.30am 6.30pm 8.00am 1.00pm 7.30am 8.30am 9.00am 9.00am 9.30am 9.30am 10.30am 9.00am 9.00am 10.00am 10.30am 1.00pm 8.30am 6.00pm 7.30pm 10.30am 9.00am 6.00pm 9.30am 7.30am 8.00am 10.00am 8.00am 8.30am 8.00am 9.00am

www.facebook.com\ladiestwilightfairbss.com

4957 3916 www.starlightscreeningsmackay.com.au

0439 794575 www.mackaytix.com.au 0447 876778 4959 0332 www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

0439 794575 4961 9231 4961 9297 4959 2545 4942 9538 4968 3863 www.mackaytix.com.au 4961 9297 4961 9300 4968 3863 4968 3863 0439 794575 www.mackaytix.com.au 4961 9387 4968 3863 0439 794575 4961 9300 4957 3916 0439 794575 www.pakmag.com.au 4954 3242 4959 0332 4942 3296 www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

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Fami MOVI E Passes

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ies to the best family mov s these School Holiday

Kids

MINI MAG June 2014

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colour IN & Win! WIN

Family Passes to How to Train Your Dragon 2

WIN FAMILY MOVIE PASSES TO DISNEY'S TINKER BELL AND THE PIRATE FAIRY Simply spot the 5 differences in the below puzzle and then email your answers to www.pakmag.com.au

To enter colour-it-in & mail to:

Name: Age:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in June 2014

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 1922, Mackay QLD 4740 & you could WIN 1 of 10 family passes to How to Train Your Dragon 2 (Comp closes 18/05/14)

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eventGUIDE pink = family

DATE

WIN Family MOVIE Passes to rio 2 Simply match the descriptions in the above 'Meet the Gang' activity puzzle to each of the characters and then email your answers to www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

15/06/14 16/06/14 16/06/14 16/06/14 16/06/14 17/06/14 17/06/14 17/06/14 17/06/14 17/06/14 17/06/14 17/06/14 18/06/14 18/06/14 18/06/14 18/06/14 18/06/14 18/06/14 18/06/14 19/06/14 19/06/14 19/06/14 20/06/14 20/06/14 20/06/14 20/06/14 21/06/14 21/06/14 21/06/14 21/06/14 22/06/14 22/06/14 22/06/14

VENUE Bluewater Quay, River St Gordon White Library Mirani Library Mackay City Library Mackay Community Health Centre Canelands Central Mackay Showgrounds Mirani Library Sarina Library Walkerston Library Garden Lawn, Botanic Gardens Mackay Community Health Centre Mackay Showgrounds MECC Auditorium Gordon White Library Sarina Library Mackay Community Health Centre Mackay Community Health Centre Aplus Sport Centre (138 Wood St) Mackay Showgrounds Andergrove Community Centre 3 Range Rd, Sarina MECC Auditorium MECC Auditorium Gordon White Library Harrup Park Milton Street Bowen Foreshore Bowen Foreshore Aplus Sport Centre (138 Wood St) Palm Ave, Seaforth Bluewater Quay Bluewater Quay, River St

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Zumba Fitness Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Infant/child drop-in (0-5 years) Mummy Central inc. PakPanel with guest speakers Mackay Show Storytime - 2 to 5 years Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Storytime - 2 to 5 years Falun Gong Meditation & Relaxation Infant/child drop-in (0-5 years) Mackay Show One Night of Queen Storytime - 2 to 5 years Storytime - 2 to 5 years Hearing Checks for Children 4+ Years 4 Year Old Health Checks Indoor fitness classes /Booking is essential Mackay Show Infant drop in clinic (0-8 week olds) Zumba Fitness Little Pattie - Memories of Bandstand The Glenn Miller Orchestra Storytime - 2 to 5 years Over 40's Singles Progressive Dinner Showgrounds Markets Offshore Superboats Offshore Superboats Indoor fitness classes /Booking is essential Seaforth Markets Zumba Zumba Fitness

green = kids

TIME 9.00am 9.30am 9.30am 11.00am 9.00am 9.00am 9.00am 9.30am 9.30am 10.30am 9.00am 9.00am 9.00am 7.30pm 10.30am 10.30am 1.00pm 8.30am 6.00pm 9.00am 9.00am 6.00pm 11.00am 7.30pm 9.30am 7.30am

8.00am 8.30am 9.00am 9.00am

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO 0439 794575 4961 9300 4961 9231 4961 9387 4968 3863 www.mackayshow.com.au 4961 9231 4961 9297 4959 2545 4942 9538 4968 3863 www.mackayshow.com.au www.mackaytix.com.au 4961 9300 4961 9297 4968 3863 4968 3863 0439 794575 www.mackayshow.com.au 4968 3863 0439 794575 www.mackaytix.com.au www.mackaytix.com.au 4961 9300 4944 0000 4957 3916 www.bowensuperboats.com www.bowensuperboats.com 0439 794575 4959 0332 www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

0439 794575

COST Free Free Free Free Free Free Cost Free Free Free Free Free Cost Cost Free Free Free Free Free Cost Free First class free

Cost Cost Free Cost Free Free Free $15 Free Free Free

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eventGUIDE JUNE 2014 DATE 23/06/14 23/06/14 23/06/14 23/06/14 24/06/14 24/06/14 24/06/14 24/06/14 24/06/14 24/06/14 24/06/14 24/06/14 25/06/14 25/06/14 25/06/14 25/06/14 25/06/14 26/06/14 26/06/14 26/06/14 26/06/14 27/06/14 28/06/14 28/06/14 28/06/14 28/06/14 28/06/14 29/06/14 29/06/14 29/06/14 29/06/14 29/06/14

VENUE Gordon White Library Mirani Library Mackay City Library Mackay Community Health Centre Bowen MECC Auditorium MECC Auditorium Mirani Library Sarina Library Walkerston Library Garden Lawn, Botanic Gardens Mackay Community Health Centre Sarina Library Gordon White Library Mackay Community Health Centre Mackay Community Health Centre Aplus Sport Centre (138 Wood St) MECC Plenary Halls Mackay City Library Andergrove Community Centre 3 Range Rd, Sarina Gordon White Library MECC Auditorium Mackay Showgrounds Milton Street Wests Leagues Club, Walkerston Aplus Sport Centre (138 Wood St) Sarina Showgrounds Palm Ave, Seaforth Bluewater Quay Mackay Birth Centre's 20th Birthday Bluewater Quay, River St

pink = family

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Infant/child drop-in (0-5 years) Bowen Show DBCT Young Peoples Theatre Session DBCT Young Peoples Theatre Session Storytime - 2 to 5 years Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months Storytime - 2 to 5 years Falun Gong Meditation & Relaxation Infant/child drop-in (0-5 years) Storytime - 2 to 5 years Storytime - 2 to 5 years Hearing Checks for Children 4+ Years 4 Year Old Health Checks Indoor fitness classes /Booking is essential Boney M Storytime - 2 to 5 years Infant drop in clinic (0-8 week olds) Zumba Fitness Storytime - 2 to 5 years The Deltones Keep on Raging to Stop the Aging River Sessions Showgrounds Markets Winter Wonderland Fair & Movie Night - Ice Age 4 Indoor fitness classes /Booking is essential Sarina Markets Seaforth Markets Zumba Mulherin Park Zumba Fitness

green = kids

TIME 9.30am 9.30am 11.00am 9.00am 10.30am 6.00pm 9.30am 9.30am 10.30am 9.00am 9.00am 10.00am 10.30am 1.00pm 8.30am 6.00pm 7.30pm 10.30am 9.00am 6.00pm 9.30am 7.30pm 10.45am 7.30am 4.00pm 8.00am 8.00am 8.30am 9.00am 10.00am 9.00am

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO 4961 9300 4961 9231 4961 9387 4968 3863 www.bowenshow.com.au www.mackaytix.com.au www.mackaytix.com.au 4961 9231 4961 9297 4959 2545 4942 9538 4968 3863 4961 9297 4961 9300 4968 3863 4968 3863 0439 794575 www.mackaytix.com.au 4961 9387 4968 3863 0439 794575 4961 9300 www.mackaytix.com.au www.mackaytix.com.au 4957 3916 www.starlightscreeningsmackay.com.au

0439 794575 4956 1066 4959 0332 www.mackaycitycentre.com.au friendsmackaybirthcentre@gmail.com

0439 794575

COST Free Free Free Free Cost Cost Cost Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free $15 Cost Free Free First class free

Free Cost Cost Free Cost $15 Free Free Free Free Free

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

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out&about

submit your photos

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

Noah out & about

Fred out & about Brothers Jessie & Joshua out & abo

Chloe out & about

Jessie out & about

Josiah out & about

Harriet out & about

Reuben out & about

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

www.pakmag.com.au

Jacob out & about

Joshua out & about

Matthew out & about

Fun with Ink Kidz

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

www.pakmag.com.au

By Dr Paul Shanahan

Baby Issues

The FourthTrimester As a father and chiropractor Paul Shanahan has helped many new mums cope with the pressures of the ‘Fourth Trimester’ Regardless of how a baby is born, the initial

them cope better and to protect their health and

months following are perhaps the most

wellbeing during this fourth trimester:

challenging in a mother’s life. Little is written

[1] Prioritise sleep

about this phase of life and we often hear our

Humans are designed to move and movement is

Sleep (or lack of it) has a drastic effect on your

life. As and when you can, 15 minutes of walking

happens after the birth.” Many new mums

ability to cope so do whatever you can to get

in the sunshine can improve your perspective

talk about the first few months being such a

adequate sleep. Lay down when your little one

on everything as well as prevent your spine from

blur that the finer details get forgotten. Some

is having a sleep rather than doing chores. When

stiffening up.

authors describe this time as an actual phase of

friends are visiting, have a rest and let them bond

pregnancy and call it the fourth trimester.

with your newborn. Turn off your phone and

are different. To an extent those needs are alien to anyone else who hasn’t had the same experiences. Each person has to learn and relearn the cues and needs of their own unique newborn, cope with round the clock feeding and even manage and care for a toddler too. It is a very demanding time and hard for mothers to experience adequate support. However, there are some things that all new mums can do to help www.pakmag.com.au

[3] Move it!

mums say, “Nobody warns you about what

During this time the needs of each mother

network of people will help you enormously.

computer and avoid catching up on social media which may be stimulating but eventually make you feel mentally wilted and physically slumped.

[2] Beat the blues Be aware of the natural dip in mood coming from the abrupt drop in hormones during the first six weeks. Talking with partners and friends helps to identify when further assessment through your midwife or GP is needed. Having a good support

[4] Ask for help On second thoughts, demand it. You put a person in this world; the world – just this once – owes you! As a chiropractor I have the pleasure of looking after many new babies and mums with gentle chiropractic care. I find that not only does this help newborns with sleep, colic and attaching but it can also really make a world of difference to women who are suffering with lower back, neck and shoulder pain after giving birth. www.pakmag.com.au

Baby

BABYNEWS

First Birthday Parties

Teething Jewellery

june 2014

RED NOSE Day 27 June SIDS and Kids is urging Australians to ‘Say G’day the Red Nose Way’ and support Red Nose Day this month. Supporters can get involved by purchasing a red nose, any Red Nose Day

WIN

product or participate in the new Dare to Care project. Dare to Care is a unique fundraising experience calling for people to take on a personal challenge while raising funds for Red Nose Day. It could be bungy jumping, taking on a fun run or even going to work in your undies - anything to raise money for this great cause! NQ business Bubs n Bumps Maternity will be jumping onboard to help raise money by donating $5 from every maternity top sold SIDS for KIDS. Go to www.bubsnbumps. com.au to see their range of cute tops.

Closer to Nature

WIN

If you’ve ever gone shopping for soothers for your baby you’ll know it’s a process of trial and error trying to find one that you baby likes. Consequently, Closer to Nature® have developed a new range of soothers so you waste less time and effort trying to find the right one. They come in four new styles - Fun, Anytime, Night Time and Air and have been designed with an orthodontic silicone teat to support healthy oral development. For more information go to closertonaturebaby.com or facebook.com. au/closertonaturebaby

Baby Dental Tips Baby's First Foods Babies need to chew the right foods at the right age to promote good jaw growth, swallowing habits and facial muscle tone. So at around six months of age, forget the

Your baby’s first birthday is a major milestone, a time to pat yourself on the back and celebrate, even if they don’t appreciate it themselves. Here are a few tips to making it a successful occasion:

• Keep it low-key and intimate with just a

• Have somewhere clean and handy ready for

handful of people your baby is familiar with

nappy changes and breastfeeding mums

• Have the party at home where your baby

• Have a variety of toys on a safe floor space

will feel most secure • Do a safety check for crawlers, walkers

cardboard boxes are always in fashion for

food to hold, taste and chew on. It’s best to start with

and climbers

one year olds

• Keep pets out of the way

• Plan on having a great cake, if only for

don’t choke. It’s really important that kids learn the chew-

TO WIN: For your chance to win a Closer to Nature Toddler Pack valued at $300, simply go

swallow-breathe through the nose pattern, essential for the

• Time the party for after-nap time eg.

to our website and tell us the most embarrassing time your baby has spat the dummy?

healthy development of beautiful faces and teeth.

afternoon tea for first thing in the morning

the photo opportunity • Charge up all your cameras!

MummaBubba Jewellery offer a range of fashion accessories made from non-toxic FDA approved silicone so they are completely safe for babies to chew on when teething. These Tulip bead

• Keep it simple – wrapping paper and

mush and start offering your bub some small chunks of cooked chunks of veggies and soft pieces of fruit so they

Concerned about bub chewing on your jewellery?

necklaces are available for $29.95 from www. mummabubbajewellery.com.au TO WIN: For your chance to win a MummaBubba Jewellery Prize Pack, valued at $89.85, simply go to our website and tell us the name of the owner of MummaBubba Jewellery?

Mackay’s faMily MaGazine for parents of “beans to teens” 3 reasons to use pakmag: [1] pakmag prints 10,000 copies every month [2] pakmag distributes to every McDonalds, Coles and Healthpoint Chemist in the Mackay region. [3] pakmag targets parents of ‘beans to teens’ 39,989 families consisting of: 3382 babies, 16347 one-five yr olds & 18176 five-fourteen yr olds

check out what we can do for your business Call Deb on 0427 725 624 or visit www.pakmag.com.au to see how we can help your biz in the family market - FREE opportunities exist

www.pakmag.com.au

By Jutta Dempsey

Teddy Bears PAKMAG’S

‘

Picnic

GET YOUR TEDDY READY!

Parent Series3

Your Child's' Black

• Kids Activity Area thanks to Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal plus Hector will be making an appearance • Singing, dancing, and games on the main stage • Great prizes up for grabs for the best Teddy Bears categories include: Best Bear, Beautiful Bear, Bold Bear, Smallest Bear, Biggest Bear and Oldest Bear • Bring: blanket, hats, sunscreen and your teddy bear! • Raising Money for Sea FM’s Give Me 5 For Kids for the Mackay Base Hospital’s Children’s Ward

Although most of your child’s development is relatively easy to see and keep an eye on, the development of your child’s brain is generally more difficult for parents to understand. Children’s brains develop in stages with distinct

intellect, personality and skills by the age of

meaning, reading music whilst playing) and,

developmental levels having been identified

five. Through play, all of the different cognitive

during this period, most brains are avid learning

between birth and 18 years. We now know that:

areas can be enhanced, so parents should treat

machines. The two sides of the brain are more

play seriously and perhaps treat it as the most

linked, laying the foundation for later creativity

important task of being a parent.

and mental planning. Information still needs to

[1] The way the brain develops is a complex relationship between genes and life experience from birth onwards

STALL BOOKINGS $100

[2] It takes up to 12 years for the brain to 100% OF THE MONEY FROM YOUR BOOKING WILL GO TO THE FUND.

become fully organised, with parts of the cortex still to become fully organised through the later teen years

We are also looking for local performers, businesses who want to donate a prize, and volunteers to help on the day.

an infant by playing activities that allow them to experience all the senses. Toddlers benefit

after 11 and can come as late as 30, when the

out. Items of play that encourage manipulative

frontal lobes finally become the ‘boss’ of the brain.

the architecture of their brain

related to later attention and self-control skills, handwriting and proficiency in the arts. Physical play helps develop the integration of hand, eyes and muscles while promoting the coordination

At birth, some motor and sensory systems of the

of both sides of the body. This is important for

brain are already formed but how it develops

building intellectual skills too.

influential in guiding the future intellectual functioning of their children. Children cultivate up to 85 per cent of their

for parents to be involved in homework projects. Mature reasoning does not begin until sometime

fine motor control and sequencing, which are

set of experiences. So parents are therefore very

hands-on and personal materials. Now is the time

can manipulate, interact or figure something

their parent/caregiver has a decisive impact on

after this is unique to each child and their own

be presented to this age group with concrete,

from stimulating playtimes where they child

play help higher levels of the brain develop

brain is ‘wired’.

info go to www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au 36For more

You can create an enriched environment for

[3] The quality of an infant’s relationship with

[3] Early interactions directly affect the way the

SUNDAY 15 JUNE 10AM-1PM QUEENS PARK

Box'

By being aware that the healthy brain likes to learn, and children learn best when exposed to a variety of ideas, experiences, skills and materials, parents can provide these experiences on a continual basis and be an integral part of their child’s cognitive development.

Neuropsychologists talk about the “five-to-

Jutta Dempsey is the principal psychologist

seven shift” because so much change occurs

at Direction Psychology. For more information

in the brain during these years. Growth in the

about your child’s cognitive development go

higher association areas enables more flexible

to www.directionspsych.com.au

inter-sensory communication (eg. reading for www.pakmag.com.au

By Amanda Cranston

WEEK

Ender

BillabongSanctuary With the kids at home for the school holidays, why not take them for a fun trip to the Billabong Sanctuary for an up-close wildlife encounter, the chance to feed a crocodile and to pat a koala and feed the kangaroos. If you're heading north to Townsville during the

privilege of feeding one of these beasts does so

There are also plenty of spots to sit down and

holidays, why not check out Billabong Sanctuary.

under careful instruction over the security fence.

enjoy a picnic lunch or a cool drink and lots of

It is a wildlife oasis with a variety of animals that

Those that gave it a go said it was an awesome

photo opportunities with animal statues, a giant

will appeal to all ages. Make sure you buy a bag

experience.

replica crocodile and Billabong Sanctuary signage.

Other memorable wildlife shows include the

We didn’t get time on this trip but next time

free flight bird show and the reptile show. All

we want to try the Sleepover Program called

the handlers are experienced and incredibly

Snap Nap where you can enjoy the park at

knowledgeable about the animals and are very

night with an interactive walk and a sleepover.

engaging with the audience. The snake show is

Not surprisingly it’s very popular with school

conducted within a chest-height glass-panelled

groups and birthday parties. The park also offers

Wildlife talks and feeding shows run all day

enclosure so everyone, including kids, has a

Corporate Family Fun Days with personalised

starting at 10am and continue until 3pm with

great view of the reptiles as they slide along the

ranger tours, lunch, face painting, jumping

the koala and wombat experience as the last

ground during the presentation.

castles and magicians. There really is so much to

of kangaroo food on the way into the park as there are plenty of opportunities to feed the many wallabies and kangaroos who wander freely around the sanctuary. If you are lucky you might even spot a baby or two in their mother’s pouch.

show of the day with opportunities to pat and have photos with the animals. You can watch the wildlife handlers feeding the cassowaries, turtles and saltwater crocs, with opportunities to feed one of the big saltwater crocs for a fee. However, only the wildlife keepers enter any of the enclosures so any visitors who pay for the

www.pakmag.com.au

It’s great to wander through the various enclosures as there also are dingoes, emus,

do at Billabong Sanctuary, if you haven’t been there yet then book it in.

lizards, venomous snakes, birds, crocs, echidnas, koalas and wombats. We found a cuddly, fat wombat asleep on its back, half sticking out of its enclosure which the kids thought was hilarious.

For more information call 4778 8344 or go to www.billabongsanctuary.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

Pets fav

Fav pet shot of the month wins a $30 Gift Voucher thanks to Mackay Pet Superstore

JUNE entries

Prize winner

Jester loved by Ayden

Shona loved by Abbigail

Dash loved by Issabella

Lulu loved by Isabella

Email your photo, name/s & address to: photos@pakmag.com.au â&#x20AC;˘ Deadline for photos is 18 June for the July 2014 edition of Pakmag.

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