PakMag Townsville - November 2022 Issue 144

Parents

Bites and Stings Risks and Remedies

Hello and welcome to the November edition of PakMag.

I think November is one of the fastest months of the year; we always have so much to jam pack into this month. Once upon a time, November used to be the month where shops started to decorate for Christmas and when the shopping centre Santa arrives, but now, these things start to happen in October! November seems to be the month we start getting the Christmas tree up at home, and we plan everything for Christmas so that by December we are well and truly over being festive - well, I know I am!

So, this month as you start getting into the festive feelings, we have a few things you can make and bake and some hot tips to get you celebration ready. Remember that less is more. Don’t fall into the trap of buying too many things, and support locals as much as you can with your purchases.

Think back to your childhood, I am sure you don’t remember many of the gifts you received, but rather the memories you made and the fun you had. So invest in experiences and make it memorable, and maybe we can all save some money and stay a bit saner in the process.

Take care of yourselves parents, and remember to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.

Bree

p 4053 3331 e admin@m2f.com.au a PO Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870 www.paktownsville.com.au • www.pakmag.com.au • www.m2f.com.au

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The Thing Is with Bree James

November seems to be the month I shed the most tears.

Firstly, I turn a year older which is of course a blessing but also a reminder that my time on earth is decreasing and my wrinkles, saggy bits, and aches and pains are increasing. The fact my entire body cracks like a glow stick but refuses to glow is very disappointing.

Secondly, it’s the time of year where kids have performances, plays and ceremonies that always see me having tears rolling down my face even if they aren’t my children. To me, these moments are gentle reminders that our time is limited.

The thing is, time is the most important currency and once we spend it, it’s gone. We have to be so intentional with how we use our time. Spending time with children is far more important than spending money on children.

I, like many of us, dream of not having to spend time earning money. The only problem for me is, I don’t have any wealthy relatives and I don’t buy lotto tickets.

So, the reality for most of us is that we have to spend time earning a living. Yet the fact remains that the more we decrease our expenses and simplify our life, the less we need to earn and the more time we have on our hands. Sometimes less really is more.

So, here are five things I am doing to get more time with my family, friends and to myself!

1. I am redefining “relax-time” in my house, because it always seems to involve some sort of technology. My plan is to have more music jam sessions, play more board games, spend time lazing in the sun and take slow walks together. With the odd movie, nacho and ice-cream night thrown in, of course.

2. I never leave an appointment without booking the next one before I leave. This ensures I am doing self care regularly.

3. Family chores are a team sport - we all work as a team and get them done. This means putting on tunes and making the process fun. Plus, everyone will get better at tidying up after themselves so that means less mess in the first place.

4. I always call my friends and family members when I am driving, even if it’s a two minute “Hi!”. This is better than a text message, and better than not contacting them at all.

5. I’ve taken all social media and emails off my phone. It is too easy to be bored for one minute and then the next thing you know, you’ve lost 20 minutes.

We all have the same amount of time every single day; how we spend it is our choice.

Doing a time audit is one of the best ways to help you realise where to make some changes. Take note how much time you spend on things daily, weekly and monthly. Then add the timeframes up for the year and divide this sum by 24 hours. This will help you calculate each time frame into an amount of days (ie twenty minutes of mindless scrolling a day on social media adds up to 5 days of your year).

So, if you are like me and you’re constantly wanting to have more time - you need to get more intentional with how you are spending it.

Bree www.breejames.com • www.myvisionbook.com.au

Give the Gift of Handmade

STORY The PakMag Team

Whether you need a gift for some special teachers, neighbours, or your friends and family, nothing is more satisfying than creating a gift you have made yourself. Most of us are living very full lives, so here are some simple, quick and affordable gift ideas that will get you and the kids being creative.

Tasty Truffle Spoons

This fun recipe is easy to make with children and doesn’t require any cooking which makes it perfect for little helpers. You can take these to a party, make them for Christmas day, or wrap them in cellophane to give as a unique gift.

What You Need

• 30 Spoons (Wooden or antique spoons from the op shop are a great option)

• 1 medium jar of Nutella

• 2 packets of Oreo’s

• 1 jar peanut butter (optional)

• 1 block of melting chocolate or 1 bottle of quick drying chocolate topping (Ice Magic)

• Decorations - sprinkles, white melted chocolate in a piping bag, whatever you like!

• Grease proof paper

Method

Blend the nutella and packets of oreos for one minute in a food processor until a smooth consistency.

If using peanut butter, half fill each spoon with peanut butter and fill the other half with the Nutella mixture. If making nut-free, scoop only the Nutella mixture into each spoon. If the mixture is too soft to scoop, chill for 15 minutes before scooping. Chill for at least one hour.

Dip your chilled spoons in your melted chocolate mix, or cover with Ice magic and place on greaseproof paper.

Decorate your spoon with sprinkles, lollies or white chocolate from your piping bag and before the mix dries. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Pom Pom Bookmarks

This is the perfect ‘anytime’ gift because it’s affordable, easy to make, and gives you a fluffy pom pom of cuteness. It’s sure to improve the look of any good book and gives you something to play with as you read.

What You Need

• Soft wool

• Sharp scissors Method

Cut an 8-10 inch piece of wool and a 15 inch piece of wool and set it aside. You will need these lengths in later steps.

To start your pom pom, hold the end of the wool in your hand, and begin wrapping the wool around your fingers – snug but not too tight. We recommend wrapping the wool 90 times.

Cut the wool after 90 wraps, and carefully slide it off your fingers. Lay it down over the 8-10 inch piece of wool. Tightly tie a knot around the middle of the 90 loops.

To add the wool ball bookmark ‘tail’, use the 15-inch piece of wool, tie it around the same string you used to tie the 90 loops together.

Next, holding the ball on its side, slide your scissors through the wool loops and start cutting. Instant fluffy ball! Trim slowly, being sure not to cut your bookmark ‘tail’ off and stop when you have a cute ball of fluffiness.

Festive Simmer Jars

These easy, quintessential homemade holiday simmer potpourris make your house smell like Christmas! Simply add the contents of the jar to boiling water and let the aroma waft through your home. As they are dry potpourri recipes, they have a long shelf life and are wonderful as Christmas gifts. This is the perfect use of the old jars you have been saving. Here are two scents to choose from.

Apple Pie Scent

• Dried apple slices

• Dried bay leaves

• Cinnamon sticks

• Star anise

• Whole cloves Method

Smells Like Christmas

• Dried cranberries

• Pine or spruce twig

• Dried orange slices

• Cinnamon sticks

• Whole cloves

Fill a clean, dry jar with the ingredients of your chosen scent and seal with a lid. Decorate the potpourri jar with printable labels, ribbon and ornaments.

Method for Recipient (Put these instructions on the jar)

Store your festive simmer jar in a dry, dark place away from moisture and heat. When you are ready to fragrance your home:

Fill a small saucepan or pot with 2 to 3 cups of water.

Add the simmering potpourri mix and simmer uncovered over low heat. To avoid burned ingredients, replenish with fresh water as needed.

After cooking, take the saucepan/pot off the heat and let sit on the counter to fragrance your home further.

Gingerbread Gift Box

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups plain flour

• 3 tsp baking powder

• 1 tbsp ground ginger

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp mixed spice

• ¼ tsp ground cloves

Method

Wet Ingredients

• 5 ½ tbsp butter, softened

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ cup molasses

Whisk dry ingredients in a bowl. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar using a stand mixer or electric beater on speed 7 for 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla to the butter mixture and mix until combined. Add the molasses, mix for 1 minute using speed 2.

Add ¼ of the dry ingredients at a time, then mix until you can’t see flour. Repeat until all dry ingredients are mixed in, then mix for a further 15 seconds. Dough should be soft and a bit sticky.

Pat the dough into a disc shape, wrap in the cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. (Can refrigerate for 5 days or freeze for 3 months).

Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan) and set a shelf in the middle. Line 3 baking trays with baking paper.

Take the dough out of the refrigerator and cut it in half. Wrap half and return to the fridge. Sprinkle a sheet of baking paper lightly with flour. Place dough on top, and sprinkle lightly with flour. Place another sheet of baking paper on top and roll out until 4mm thick. As you work, flip and if paper is wrinkling, peel it off then put it back on, smoothing out the wrinkles.

Use a cookie cutter to make shapes, firmly pressing to cut all the way through. If the dough sticks to the cutter, dip it in flour. Use a palette knife (or large knife) to transfer onto a baking sheet. Tidy edges if necessary using a butter knife.

Bake for 12 minutes (for classic light golden) or 14 minutes (dark golden and crisp). Then remove and cool fully on the tray, and decorate!

3 Genius Kitchen Science Projects for Kids

STORY Lis Rooks

Kids love playing with food, which makes kitchen science projects a fantastic way to teach science lessons and make interesting discoveries. Many of these activities also teach problem solving, patience, trial-and-error and soft skills which kids will benefit from in their everyday life.

Sweet Slushy

In this science experiment, we learn how ice and salt can be turned into a sweet slushy through heat transfer. This activity can test your patience, so it’s best to set up at the beginning of the day so that the treat will be finished in the afternoon - ready to enjoy when the sun is hottest!

Making Butter

Have you ever tried to whip cream in your kitchen aid and forgotten about it… only to find it had turned into butter? Here’s a manual and fun way to make this delicious spread, so get your kids busy by letting them shake their way to delicious, homemade butter.

What You Need

• Small plastic cup

• Large bowl

• Spoon

• Straws

• Ice cubes

• Coarse rock salt

• Juice of your choice

• Optional: Non-contact digital infrared thermometer Method

Fill the plastic cup with juice and sit it in the centre of the bowl. Add the ice all around the outside until it covers at least ¾ up the side of the cup.

Carefully sprinkle the salt onto the ice. Be very careful not to get any salt in the juice - otherwise, you’ll end up with a salty slushy. Cover the entire ice with salt.

Wait patiently. Stir the juice gently every half an hour. It can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours for the freezing to start, but once it does, stir regularly or the juice will form into an ice cube.

Scrape the freezing juice off the sides of the cup and mix it all together.

Your slushy will continue to thicken. Once it reaches the desired thickness, it is ready to drink. Add a straw and enjoy your sweet science experiment!

What You Need

• A thick mason jar with a lid

• Whipping cream

• 2 or 3 clean glass marbles (optional). Marbles speed up the process because they provide extra agitation for the cream Method

Fill the jar halfway with cream and rop the marbles in. Tightly close the lid and shake the jar. After a minute or two, the cream will thicken.

As the cream thickens, you get whipped cream! You can taste some if you like.

Pop the lid back on, and keep shaking. After a few more minutes, you’ll notice liquid sloshing around in the jar. Buttermilk is now separating from the butter that’s starting to solidify in the jar.

Continue to shake it for another minute or so until the butter forms a solid mass.

Pour off the buttermilk and shake the butter out of the jar. If you like pancakes, save the buttermilk for the batter.

Rinse the butter under cold water by kneading it a little. This removes the last of the buttermilk, preventing the butter from going rancid quickly.

Now it’s time for a taste test! Slather the light and fluffy homemade butter onto warm toast, and enjoy! You can also add a dash of salt, fresh garlic or chopped herbs.

Edible Marshmallow Playdough

This sweet treat is perfect for slime-obsessed kids because it’s messy, sticky and wonderfully delicious!

What You Need

• Marshmallows

• Corn Starch

• Icing Sugar

• Coconut Oil

• Food Colouring Method

In a bowl mix three tablespoons of cornstarch with one tablespoon of icing sugar. Set aside.

Place five Marshmallows into a microwave-safe container. Add a tablespoon of coconut oil and a few drops of food colouring.

Microwave in short five to ten second increments and watch closely as the marshmallows expand like crazy.

As soon as the marshmallows bubble and expand massively, let the microwave cool for a moment. Once the marshmallows stop expanding and bubbling, start heating again. This process takes about 30 seconds with about four breaks. Sugar burns easily, so be patient and careful, otherwise, the marshmallows will explode or turn crispy. Careful - it will be hot!

Using a spoon, mix the marshmallow mixture in the container until it pulls together into a ball. Remove it and place it into the cornstarch-icing sugar mixture.

Sprinkle some of the icing sugar mixture on top of the marshmallows until covered completely.

Let cool briefly, then lift it out with your hands and start kneading.

If it feels too sticky, press it into the cornstarch mixture, then continue kneading.

Enjoy! The edible playdough tastes like marshmallows but has a more “rubbery” texture to it. It is not really a makeand-store type of item, so play with it, eat it, and dispose of any leftovers. Most kids are more interested in the making part of the experiment, and eating it is just the cherry on top.

Is Your Child a Bully?

STORY Andrew Oberthur

The word “bully” is emotive, and often used to describe negative interactions between people. Let me say from the outset that true bullying can have untold harmful effects on the victim and should not be tolerated under any circumstances. If educators and parents have a common understanding of the definition of bullying, then it can be addressed appropriately and decisively, keeping the victim safe while educating the perpetrator about appropriate behaviours.

Sometimes negative behaviour is NOT bullying. To that end it is important to understand the difference between bullying behaviour and bad

behaviour. The term bullying can often misrepresent behaviours and relationships between children and adolescents. Bad behaviour is not necessarily bullying. Bullying is repeated and targeted, with a power differential between two people or a group of people and an individual.

Often people use the term bullying for the first negative interaction between two children - that is not bullying. People looking after children who display such behaviours must ask themselves, and possibly ask the child, where they learnt such negative behaviours. It is not uncommon for children with older siblings to learn behaviours which are inappropriate in a social context.

Now, what if it's your child displaying these behaviours, and by definition, being a bully?

Behaviour experts believe that human beings behave for one of two reasons: To access or to avoid. So when a child displays bullying behaviour, you need to ask the question - “Why is my child behaving that way?”. Remember there are two general reasons as to why children might behave in certain ways - to ACCESS or to AVOID. For example, a child may display a behaviour to access attention (attention seeking). Conversely children may behave to avoid doing something (avoidance strategies). Keep these reasons in your mind as we explore the possibility that your child is a bully.

Let’s work through a scenario that can happen anywhere - You get a phone call or an email explaining that your child has displayed some anti-social behaviour (notice I am using diplomatic language in the hope that the deliverer of the message is being diplomatic and understanding, for now). The person contacting you is in a position of authority within the group. They explain to you that the behaviour displayed by your child is an example of a repeated pattern of behaviour towards one or a number of students.

Now, there are various contexts in which this undesirable behaviour could have been displayed (face to face, or via technology). Both forms of undesirable behaviour are potentially very harmful. Notice I am resisting using the term bullying... at least until we establish that the behaviour constitutes bullying.

Your child may be near you at the point of the behaviour being reported to you. Alternatively, your child may still be in the social environment and awaiting a sanction from the present authority. As the behaviour is described to you, your mind starts to wonder. Your first question is “What happened?”.

• Did my child really do that?

• Why would they behave like that?

• Were they provoked?

• Who else was involved?

• Has this happened before? (Especially as bullying hasn’t yet been mentioned).

• What’s their friendship with the alleged victim like?

• Do I know them?

• Was the alleged victim “really” hurt?

There may be a sense of disbelief that your child was responsible for the undesirable behaviour. And now you are about to enter an emotional dilemma. Do you believe the report about your child’s behaviour, or do you deny that your child was capable of such

behaviour? Before you form an opinion, it is worth asking your child for their version of events.

If your child acknowledges the behaviour, then you have to accept that they are responsible. Now you have a decision to make - will you give your child a consequence for their behaviour, or will you leave it up to the present authority to decide? Not only could there be a consequence to help your child learn what they did wrong, there should also be a form of restorative practice.

Let’s name it - the behaviour was wrong. We should acknowledge that even though people may have different values and tolerances of what is acceptable behaviour, a reasonable person agrees to what is socially acceptable. In this day and age of political correctness there is often a reluctance to name the behaviour as wrong, as that means someone is judging the behaviour, using their values.

Restorative practice is when the perpetrator apologises and behaves in a way to restore the relationship with the victim. The apology may be written or delivered face to face. The restorative behaviours may include doing something helpful for the victim, or some form of social justice act to indicate their remorse for their behaviour.

If your child denies their behaviour and attempts to rationalise it, your decision becomes more complicated. Do you believe in authority and issue consequences, or do you believe your child and justify their behaviour?

We must understand that conflict is a part of human life, and how we manage our conflict is an important life lesson. We need to upskill our children to manage their behaviours and to deal with negative behaviours that they may come across in their life. This will build resilience in our children and give them good relational skills as they grow into adolescence and adulthood.

As parents we must be willing to consider the possibility that our children are not perfect. It is complex to manage children’s behaviours, especially the antisocial, damaging, undesirable behaviours. Parents are encouraged to work with their children’s educators to ensure that children know what is acceptable and what to do IF their child displays bullying behaviour. Please note it is important to address the behaviour by saying that the behaviour is bullying-like behaviour. It is preferable to avoid calling a child a bully. It’s important to address the behaviour, not label the child’s whole character.

Remember that most people can learn and are capable of changing their behaviour. Together we can make a positive difference.

Andrew Oberthur is a primary school principal with over 30 years’ experience teaching and leading primary schools in Brisbane. His first book, Are You Ready for School? is about building a culture of trust, collaboration and inquiry between parents and teachers. His book is available through Amba Press, Amazon and Booktopia.

Fostering Empathy in Children is Crucial

STORY Simone Cook, Guidance Counsellor, Townsville Catholic Education

As parents, we are always hopeful that our parenting has provided our children with the skills required for them to flourish. But what does that really mean, and how do we know what aspects of parenting are going to help ensure this happens?

Research tells us that being emotionally connected in our world is one very important way our children develop positive self-esteem and build positive relationships. As parents, this is a great place to start. Whilst we are hopeful our children develop with individual strengths and capabilities, without the capacity to connect and empathise with others, they may become very isolated and alone in the world.

A common hope therefore, would be to ensure our children grow with the ability to make meaningful connections with others to completely flourish! While this sounds feasible, how does it happen, and what can we as parents do to help?

Living in this technological existence, one would think that connecting to others is easier. Whilst this may be the case technically, the art of human connection requires much more than seeing a face or words on a device. Cooperative social interaction is critical for human social development and learning. For example, face to face interactions involving eye contact are actually essential to the developing brains of our children. Those experiences where we are face to face with our family and friends interacting and communicating, are crucial times for our children to learn about themselves, their own emotions, and the emotions of others.

Research tells us that empathy is one of those vital ingredients that children need in order to build connections, appreciate others and develop awareness of alternative perspectives. Unfortunately, without the ability to empathise, the connections we make may be

superficial and shallow, or may not happen at all. This ability to ‘walk in other people’s shoes’ is a vital social skill and is crucial for establishing positive relationships. Empathy allows us to behave with compassion, and enables prosocial and helpful behaviours that benefit everyone. If our children are lacking empathy, they will be unable to connect and will have difficulties making friends or maintaining friendships. Therefore, fostering a culture of empathy with your child at a very young age may in fact be one of the most important gifts you could give them.

What is empathy? Three distinct processes that describe empathy include the ability to understand and share others emotions, reason with varying perspectives, and have the desire to help when someone is vulnerable or distressed. These traits may appear natural and simplistic, however, they do not develop automatically and are shaped by a child’s personal experience, culture, environment and parenting. With technology being at the forefront of our lives, parenting now more than ever plays a vital role in helping our children develop important social-emotional-intellectual skills. Developing skills in empathy and understanding, will benefit everyone by building more positive, connected and caring relationships.

So how can we help our children be more empathetic?

Make Talking About Feelings a Natural Part of Conversations

• Identify feelings by naming them and encourage your child to talk about why they are feeling that way.

• Allow your child to feel their feelings and offer ways for them to manage them. For example, provide simple strategies like using breathing exercises when frustrated or anxious.

• Provide your child with the time and space they need if they are not ready to talk, this shows respect for their feelings and processing time.

• Model self-care and self-reflection to your child. They learn so much from what they observe of our own behaviours as parents.

Be a Responsive Parent Who Empathises with Your Child

• Communicate effectively by listening attentively. Turn off the television, put the phone down and pay close attention to what is being said and communicated both verbally and nonverbally. Speak positively and without judgement, help your child be solution-focussed in their approach. For example, “It sounds like you are feeling frustrated by your friend’s behaviour? What do you think would help?”.

• Know your child and take the time to notice how they are feeling. Talk openly about their body language and facial expressions.

• Ask questions daily about their day. For example, “What was the best part of your day today?”, and “What are three things that you’re grateful for today?”.

• Ensure you are responding to your child’s emotional needs by acknowledging and respecting their feelings. When we empathise with our children they develop trusting, secure attachments with us. This way we are modelling a caring response.

Model Caring for Others and Make it an Expectation in Your Family

• Talk about being kind and encourage actions of kindness and thoughtfulness.For example, “What did you do when your friend was sad?”.

• Develop a culture of an appreciation of difference through your conversation and perspective of the world. Model this in the way you communicate.

• Encourage a sense of fair play during interactions. A fair solution involves sharing, taking turns and compromising. This encourages the idea that their desires aren’t more important than those of others.

• Ask your child to contribute around the house and to practice gratitude to those around them. This helps them become more aware of others and what they do for them.

Simone is an experienced educator, counsellor and mother of three who has worked for 30 years in both primary and secondary schools. Simone has a Bachelor of Education majoring in Health and Physical Education and a Masters in Guidance and Counselling and has held various positions in North Queensland schools advocating for the health and wellbeing of all students. Simone currently works as a Guidance Counsellor at Ryan Catholic College.

All Things Health

Raising Awareness of Type 1 Diabetes on World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day is marked every year on 14 November, raising awareness about diabetes. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy).

In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach, stops making insulin because the cells that make the insulin have been destroyed by the body’s immune system. Without insulin, the body’s cells cannot turn glucose into energy.

Unfortunately the causes for this autoimmune reaction are still unknown. Type 1 diabetes is not linked to modifiable lifestyle factors, there is no cure, and it cannot be prevented. Type 1 diabetes represents around 10 percent of all cases of diabetes and is one of the most common chronic childhood conditions. Its onset is usually abrupt and the symptoms can include excessive thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, weakness and blurred vision.

Type 1 diabetes is managed with insulin injections several times a day or the use of an insulin pump. The main misunderstanding around type 1 diabetes is that it’s caused by poor diet choices, this is untrue. The other misconception is that diabetics only eat sugar when they are having a low, this is also untrue. Diabetics can eat whatever they like, but they have to estimate how much sugar/carbohydrates is in the food they have consumed so that they can inject the correct amount of insulin so that the body can process it. Imagine having to work out how many carbohydrates there are in every single thing you want to consume, and then mathematically work out how much medicine to take. Stress, exercise, illness, food, drinks and alcohol all impact a diabetics sugar levels making this a very tough chronic disease to manage.

Jana Gorski

NaturopathCalanna TerryWhite Chemmart

Dear Jana, Sometimes my child is so wired in the evenings they have issues getting to sleep. What do you recommend?

It’s normal for kids to occasionally have trouble sleeping. If you’ve investigated and corrected all the common triggers such as room temperature, noise, sugary treats or screen time before bed, you could try a supplement. Magnesium and Zinc can help and herbs such as Valerian, Passionflower, Chamomile and Lavender promote relaxation. Make sure you get advice on therapeutic doses for the best effect. Often stress causes sleep disturbances, so check in with your child about anything that’s bothering them.

Calanna WholeHealth Pharmacy www.calannapharmacy.com.au

Support Bub’s Gut Health with Bioceuticals BabyBiotic

Bioceuticals BabyBiotic is a blend of the most common probiotic strains found in healthy breastfed newborns and infants in combination with the prebiotic fibre inulin, BabyBiotic supports the development of your baby’s microbiome.

Suitable for children 0+ years to promote and nourish healthy development of microflora. Grab your BabyBiotic today from your local Calanna TerryWhite Chemmart. A healthy gut is critical to your wellbeing, so don’t forget to grab your Gut Health+ from your local Calanna TerryWhite Chemmart.

Helping Your Child Manage Their Changing Body

STORY Lis Rooks

In puberty, your child is coping with many physical and emotional changes. Maybe you remember your own emotions and worries during that time? Thinking about how you felt might help you be more empathetic and relate to how your child feels.

Acknowledge the Changes

Commonly, teenagers feel self-conscious or embarrassed at times when it comes to their changing bodies. Being there for your child as they transition through physical, emotional, and sexual changes to their bodies and psyche will help them feel safe and understood.

However, you don’t have to wait with the conversation until the changes start to happen. Preparing your child before their body starts to change can help them know what to expect and provide them with reassurance that these changes are normal and nothing to be ashamed of.

While not every teenager feels comfortable talking about these personal subjects, having open and relaxed conversations can be helpful. Remember you are the most influential role model in your child’s life, so lead by example. If your child can see you’re comfortable talking about these issues, your child will feel more comfortable too. Just keep in mind that big or uncomfortable conversations can’t be forced and are best had when your child is ready to talk and listen.

Give Simple and Factual Explanations

Giving simple, factual explanations can prepare your child for upcoming changes and provide reassurance that puberty is an important and exciting life stage. Talking to your child about physical and emotional changes like underarm hair, breast development, voice

changes and mood swings can normalise the subject, soothe out anxiety and help them feel comfortable with it.

Give your Child Options

If you or your child feel uncomfortable talking about puberty, or have questions that you are unsure about, talking to a trusted adult such as a relative, counsellor or GP can help.

Try to avoid comparing them to others and instead encourage your child to accept their body as it is. This will help them feel more confident and understand that everyone develops at their own pace. Alternatively, you can also provide your child with age appropriate books and videos to help educate them.

Remember to Listen

Listening to your child shows that they are respected, and that their thoughts and feelings are valid. By allowing your child to lead conversations, you help them share their worries and anxieties with you, giving them the safe space to explore their own feelings. Remember, sometimes the best parenting is not saying anything at all.

Lastly, Remember to Have Fun

Remind yourself that not everything has to be serious. Taking your child shopping for personal hygiene products can encourage them to embrace changes, nurture their growing independence and give them an outlet to celebrate their growing body. Girls may even want to bring along friends or add a selfcare or pamper experience to the outing. An experience like this can help your child associate positive feelings with their growing body, and perhaps even reinforce and nurture your parent-child relationship.

All Things Tweens & Teens

Loving Your Sometimes Not-Very-Likeable Teen

The confusion and overwhelm that comes with being a teen is real. It’s intense and scary. Let’s shed some light on how we, as parents, can express sympathy, positivity and love for our teens, even in moments when they are not very loveable.

Because teens look older, we have higher expectations and hold them to higher standards. This shift in expectation, paired with physical, emotional and social change, is so significant that it can cause anxiety, confusion, elation and tears, all within an hour! Despite the mounds of hormonal fluctuation, tears, and rage, teens also experience a big need for reassurance, hugs and comforting bedtime tuck ins.

Love The Skin You’re In

Falling into the trap of comparing yourself to others can happen so easily, especially with social media. But ranking yourself against others is a recipe for unhappiness - especially when much of what’s on screen is filtered and edited - and only a tiny snapshot of the whole picture.

This push-and-pull behaviour can be exhausting for parents. So, when you feel it is all getting too much, be kind to yourself and remember that sometimes the best you can do is to simply be there, without judgement, waiting until they are ready to talk, or not.

WIN a Pink Clay Mask from Eve’s Skin $49.95 - www.evesskin.com

So, one way to avoid the comparison trap is to try to be present, shift your focus and enjoy what’s happening in your life. Concentrate on the fun you’re having instead of how you or others look. Stop and smell the roses, feel the breeze in your hair and on your skin, and savour that delicious feeling of being alive. Enjoy every moment - no matter how you look right now.

This Pink Clay Mask will leave your complexion looking and feeling healthy, refreshed and rejuvenated. It delivers anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant benefits for healthy looking skin. Organic, vegan and Australian made, Eve’s Skin products are also safe to use while pregnant and breastfeeding. Head to www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to WIN!

Adult Colouring

WIN a Fauna Jigsaw Puzzle from Coudberries

$24.99 - www.cloudberries.co.uk - Explore the exciting animal kingdom in FAUNA, a professionally-designed jigsaw from the eco-friendly puzzle brand Cloudberries! The eye-catching combination of colors in every portion of the design will surely keep you on your toes as you try to figure out which piece goes where. Apart from providing an absolutely superb puzzling experience, Cloudberries also gives back to the planet by planting a tree for every puzzle sold. With these, Cloudberries not only manages to impress but also successfully takes an active part in caring for the planet. Now is definitely the moment to try out this one-of-a-kind puzzle! Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! No need to submit activity to enter.

www.pakmag.com.au

Lift-out kids activity mag!

Find these hidden things at the picnic

COLOUR & FIND WHICH PLACE EACH RACER CAME

SPOT THE 4 DIFFERENCES & COLOUR IN

WIN a Marble Rush Speedway! $49.95 - www.bigw.com.au

Ready, set, RACE marbles down ramps and through obstacles with the Marble Rush Speedway. This 78-piece colour-coded building set includes a starting gate that plays a musical light show, crazy 360° loop, thrilling tracks, rattling peg maze and bases that all easily connect together. Children can compete with family and friends to keep the marbles in motion and bring them back to the beginning. Combine with other Marble Rush sets (sold separately) to create an extreme playset. Find more exciting build ideas by visiting the Marble Rush website, www.marblerush.com Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 30/11/2022. No need to submit activities to enter.

MINI MAG

USE THE GRID TO DRAW YOUR OWN TURTLE

WIN a Wahu Pool Pets Croc Racer! $19.99 - www.wahu.com.au

Kids will love these awesome new inflatable pool racers in bright funky Wahu colours. Perfect for racing up and down the pool against your mates, or trying to balance on them - the possibilities are endless! Wahu Pool Pets will be a hit all summer long. Ages 6+. Available from all leading retailers. Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 30/11/2022.

need to submit activities to enter.

SPOT THE 5 DIFFERENCES & COLOUR IN

WIN a Super Studio Princess Starter Kit from Osmo $69.95 - www.bigw.com.au

COLOUR BY NUMBERS

Give your child the gift of fun and educational screen time with one of the most popular STEAM games on the market - Osmo. The Osmo range introduces children to hands-on interactive gameplay that both educates and entertains.

With a suite of products that teach essential life skills like science, maths and english as well as vocation based skills like art, geography and coding, Osmo helps little ones boost their confidence in the classroom and beyond.

The Super Studio Princess Kit allows kids to interact with their favourite Disney princesses Ariel, Belle and Rapunzel, while embarking on an epic adventure and bringing drawings to life. Designed for children aged 5 - 11, this immersive and magical experience teaches players how to draw, build fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and digital art techniques.

Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 30/11/2022. No need to submit activities to enter.

Celebrate Summer

It’s that time of year (already!) that we start the pre-Christmas celebrations. It’s stinking hot, so these icy cold beverages are the perfect way to kick off the party. Both have the option to be non-alcoholic, so everyone can enjoy these cheeky summer tipples.

Mango Rum Lassi

It’s mango season! Choosing ripe, juicy mangoes when they are at their sweetest will make these mango rum lassis sing!

Serves 2 Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen mango

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• ½ cup ice

• 2 shots of simple syrup

• 2 shots of dark/spiced rum (optional)

• Lime juice, to taste

• Salt, to taste

• Mint, to garnish

• Cardamom powder, for dusting Method

Put the yogurt, mango and ice in a blender and blend until smooth.

Add the simple syrup, lime juice and salt. Blend until combined. Add the rum if making the alcoholic version, and blend until combined.

Taste and make adjustments according to your preference.

Pour into chilled glasses, dust with cardamom powder and add a sprig of mint as a garnish. Enjoy!

Raspberry Lemonade with Pink Gin

This refreshing drink will both quench your thirst and lift your spirits. The sugar content in this drink is reduced by the addition of soda water, which doesn’t go astray at this time of year when there are tempting treats everywhere we turn.

Serves 4 Ingredients

• 2 cups lemonade

• 2 cups soda water

• 2 cups ice + 1 pitcher half filled with ice

• 1 lemon, thinly sliced

• 4 shots of pink gin (optional)

• Mint, to garnish

Method

In your pitcher half filled with ice, pour in the lemonade, soda water and pink gin (leave gin out if making nonalcoholic) and stir to combine.

Half fill four chilled glasses with ice. Top each with a few raspberries, add a little more ice and finish off with some more raspberries. Slide a few slices of lemon down the sides of your glasses.

Pour your lemonade mixture into your glasses and add a sprig of mint to each as a garnish. Enjoy!

Celebrating Diversity Through Special Occasions

‘Special occasions are celebrated in ways that recognise, respect and strengthen children’s appreciation of diversity and difference’ Early Years

Learning Framework

As we approach the end of another year, we start to come together to celebrate and reflect on our learning, wellbeing, and achievements.

Celebrations are an opportunity to learn about others through authentic experiences. In early childhood settings, teachers and educators need to constantly balance predetermined celebrations (such as Mother’s Day, Christmas and graduations) with child- and familyfocused celebrations. These celebrations may have remained unchanged over many years or may have been chosen as a reaction to external means. Authentic relationships with children and families are critical in ensuring that celebrations reflect individual early childhood contexts.

Within our services at Mary MacKillop Childcare, we have a strong connection and importance towards Catholic Sacraments and Culminations (celebrations) and we value and respect all our families and local community’s culture and identity, including their own unique celebrations.

Celebrations are a chance for shared learning and growth to explore and reflect upon our own sense of belonging. However, celebrations shouldn’t be the only exposure or acknowledgment around cultural diversity. Instead, diversity can be embedded meaningfully throughout a child’s day, providing flexibility for each child that allows them to participate at their own level of development and understanding. As such, the team at Mary MacKillop Childcare provides all children with access to materials and environments that stimulate discussions about the similarities and differences amongst their peers and the wider community.

A very common and highly celebrated event coming upon us is Christmas, which of course is a major celebration within our Catholic traditions. It is commonly celebrated by exchanging gifts and spending time with family. Christmas time is a time for children to believe in something they cannot see or touch and experience the magic, love, and spirit of giving to others. It’s more than Christmas stencils or adult driven craft templates that all look the same, it’s the value of the process and joy of creation for those we love and cherish.

In the words of Pope Francis “Christmas celebrations are often full of sound. It would be good for us to make room for silence, to hear the voice of Love.”

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Featured products, reviews and prizes. Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win!

Tarramarra Kids Canvas Sneakers

$73.75 - www.uggexpress.com.au

A mini version for kids, these Kids Canvas Sneakers are made with canvas, and have a sturdy yet lightweight rubber sole. They perfectly support your little one’s feet, no matter how active they are. Available in three colours, they will look super cute on any boy or girl.

Victorinox Bambino Pocket Knife Toy

$34.95 - www.victorinox.com.au

VTech Smart Medical Kit

$44.95 - www.bigw.com.au

There’s always a doctor in the house with the Smart Medical Kit. Children can care for their family, friends, pets and plush toys with this portable kit. Children can dress up like a Doctor and use the interactive healthcare tablet, exploring medical instruments, the human body and common ailments using the touch points on the tablet. When the Doctor’s office is closed, pack up the 15 instruments and accessories and place them all in the medical bag, ready for their next appointment. The Smart Medical Kit is suitable for 2 to 5 years and is available at Big W, Target, good toy stores and online retailers.

Who says a Swiss Army Knife is just for grown-ups? This pocket knife is for young children who like the way the Victorinox scales hide small tools and want a little, child-safe adventure companion of their own. It’s an eight-function piece for playing with as much as for taking on trips so that there’s always a set of child’s cutlery on hand. Its functions include a blade with rounded tip, a bottle opener, a screwdriver, a woodsaw, a snap hook, a fork and spoon as well as a small magnifying glass that are all perfect for discovering

Tips on Water Safety from Parentmedic North Qld

Children have a fascination with water, especially babies and toddlers, which puts them at a higher risk of drowning. Babies and toddlers body shape makes them top heavy - If a baby falls into shallow water, they can’t always lift themselves out. Drowning is quick, silent and deadly, and it only takes 20 seconds. The number one rule is constant supervision, never taking your eyes off children even if they can swim. Keep your child in arm’s reach and avoid distractions. Always restrict access to water by fencing pools and using safety barriers. Make sure pool gates are locked and regularly check the safety latch is in good working order.

Swimming lessons are invaluable and highly recommended for all children. Not only does swimming, as a form of exercise, keep a child’s heart and lungs healthy, but it also improves strength and flexibility.

Perinatal Mental Health Week

Attending a first aid course and learning CPR is the only way to know what to do when managing an emergency around water. CPR helps keep the blood circulating and delivers oxygen to the body until help arrives. It’s a good idea to update first aid skills every three years and also update your CPR each year. You can contact a local service provider for more information.

An excellent website for water safety in Queensland is the Laurie Lawrence campaign ‘Kids Alive.’ This website provides a Kids Channel, Parents Library and a Teacher Hub. www.kidsalive.com.au

Each year in the second week of November, Perinatal Mental Health Week raises awareness about perinatal mental health challenges, and where you can find help, support and understanding. As Australia’s only national helpline for individuals and their families, Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) provides access to counselling and information, supporting the mental health of parents and families during pregnancy and in their first year of parenthood. The PANDA Helpline operates Monday to Friday, including public holidays, from 9.00am to 7.30pm AEST and is staffed by trained and experienced counsellors and volunteers. Call 1300 726 306 if you or a loved one need support or advice.

Fun FactFoetuses Have Tails

Most humans grow a tail in the womb, which usually grows into the coccyx or the tailbone. The tailbone is a bone located at the end of the spine, below the sacrum. Sometimes, however, the embryonic tail doesn’t disappear and the baby is born with it. This, however, is extremely rare.

Bites and Stings –The Risks and Remedies When Living in North Qld

STORY Loretta Woodford - Parentmedic North Queensland Owner

As a parent, we want to keep our kids safe, and living in North Queensland comes with its own set of risks that are important to be aware of. There are a variety of creatures that can bite or sting us here, so what do you do if you suspect your little one has been bitten or stung? It can be difficult to know whether or not a bite or sting is dangerous, so let’s clarify common bites and stings that happen in and around North Queensland.

Insect Bites

Common symptoms of insect bites are skin irritation, inflammation or swelling, or a bump or a blister around the bite mark. Insect bites usually clear up within a couple of days without any treatment.

Mosquitoes can cause itchy bites and severe allergic reactions are rare. Itching is quite common and children will often scratch, breaking the skin. If the skin is broken

it can lead to an infection, so if itching persists for more than 48 hours, it is best to take your child to the doctor.

Bees and wasps can produce a painful sting, however the major cause for concern is the development of serious allergy, also known as anaphylaxis. If a child shows signs of anaphylaxis, ring 000 immediately and wait for the ambulance. Signs and symptoms of Anaphylaxis are discussed below, as well as what you should do in such a medical emergency.

Wasps rarely leave their sting in the skin but if a bee’s stinger is left behind, gently remove it by scraping it carefully from the side with a fingernail or credit card, flicking the sting out to reduce the amount of venom injected. Do not use tweezers as you may release more venom from the sac. Follow general first aid for bites and stings. More information on general first aid is discussed below.

Hairy Caterpillars can cause painful, itchy and inflamed skin reactions as caterpillar hairs become embedded in the child’s skin. These hairs can also cause eye injury if they get into the eye, so see your doctor immediately if there are caterpillar hairs in the eye. Remove visible hairs with tweezers, then apply and remove adhesive tape to the area to remove the finer hairs. Do not scratch or rub the area as this may cause the hairs to penetrate deeper into the skin.

Other Bites and Stings

Snake bites in north Queensland can be potentially fatal and an ambulance should be called immediately by dialling 000 for all cases of suspected snakebite. While not all snakes are venomous, it is difficult to identify snakes, and therefore all bites should be treated as potentially dangerous. Immediately apply a pressureimmobilisation bandage, lay the child as still as possible and wait for the ambulance to arrive. Do not attempt to kill or capture the snake yourself.

Box jellyfish are found mostly in the warm waters along the North Queensland coast. Stings are potentially fatal. Douse the tentacles with vinegar, and then call 000 for an ambulance. If the child isn’t breathing, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Do not attempt to remove the tentacles and do not rub the sting.

Bluebottle jellyfish are found in all coastal waters and can be seen when walking along the beach in summer. The sting can cause immediate intense pain followed by redness at the site. Remove any remaining tentacles by washing the area with water. Soaking the affected area in hot but not scalding water (ideally 45°C) for 20 minutes may relieve the pain. This, however, is not suitable for infants, as hot water may burn their skin. Do not use vinegar. If pain persists, patients should see their GP.

Irukandji Syndrome can be a potentially lethal condition, however, most cases are not life threatening. The initial sting is usually not felt but can develop into a progressive syndrome (over minutes to hours) characterised by restlessness, sweating, nausea, vomiting and severe pain affecting the limbs, back, abdomen or chest. For suspected Irukandji Syndrome, douse the site with vinegar. Ring 000 for an ambulance, so your child can attend an Emergency Department for assessment.

Flying foxes and bats can cause infection that can be transmitted after scratches or bites. If your child is bitten or scratched by a bat, wash the area with soap

and water for five minutes, apply an antiseptic and then see your GP.

General First Aid for Bites and Stings

1. Wash with soap and water and apply an antiseptic if available.

2. Ensure your child’s tetanus vaccination is up to date.

3. An icepack can be applied to reduce local pain and swelling.

4. Pain relief may be required e.g., paracetamol or an antihistamine (to reduce swelling, redness or itch).

5. See your doctor if your child develops any other symptoms or signs of infection.

Anaphylaxis

Signs and symptoms to look out for in children after a bite or sting are:

• difficult/noisy breathing.

• swelling of tongue.

• swelling/tightness in the throat.

• difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice.

• wheeze or persistent cough.

• persistent dizziness or collapse.

• pale and floppy.

• abdominal pain and vomiting (these are signs of anaphylaxis for insect allergy).

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and therefore follow these steps:

1. Lay the child flat (do not allow them to stand or walk).

2. Administer an autoinjector (EpiPen or AnaPen) if one is available.

3. Dial 000 for the ambulance.

4. Administer second autoinjector if there is no response after 5 minutes.

5. The child will be transported to the Emergency Department for at least 4 hours of observation.

If this is your child’s first anaphylactic event, the ambulance will administer adrenaline on the way to the hospital. Commence CPR if the child is unresponsive and not breathing normally.

For more information, check out www.healthdirect.gov.au and www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au

Loretta Woodford is passionate about educating parents and carers to be confident in an emergency situation through her Baby / Child First Aid sessions. She is a Registered Nurse with a Master in Nursing (Education) and the Owner of Parentmedic North Qld. She is dedicated to ensuring every parent in north Queensland can be their child’s lifesaver. To book a private or public session, contact Loretta at hello@parentmedicnorthqld.co

Daddy Diary

Undoubtedly the best aspect of being a man is the ability to pee wherever and whenever (within reason) one desires. The convenience of this cannot be overstated. Yes ladies, it’s a fact that we learn very early in life, if my three-year-old son Charlie is anything to go by.

Let me set the scene. About a year ago my wife and I moved into our dream home. For 10 years we have worked and saved so we could finally afford the extra bedroom, garage space, land for the kids to play on and the pièce de résistance; our 35,000 litre inground swimming pool. I’ve argued more than once that the rest of the house was built simply to accommodate the pool. We love the thing. That’s why I’m so adamant my little boy does not treat it like his own personal dunny.

For months I’ve told him, whatever you do, don’t pee in the pool. Just get out and do it on the grass. Simple. Fortunately, and it gives me much pleasure to say this, he has been listening to his old man.

Unfortunately though, it gives me much displeasure to also report he recently whipped it out during one of my eight-year-old daughters’ sleepovers. Awkward. Let me just say, there ain’t no noise more shrill than a gaggle of primary school age girls screaming at my young son’s old fella. They were completely and utterly horrified. And this put me in quite the predicament.

You see, on the one hand, my little boy did exactly what I’ve been telling him to do. He didn’t wee in the pool. He got out and did it on the grass. A+ for following directions. The unfortunate thing however is that three-year-old’s don’t really care about their audience. The bush wee in front of family only, or a wee in front of visiting guests is much of a muchness to a toddler. Really the whole debacle is my fault as his “stand up and wee outside” pool educator. So I’ll cop this one on the chin. Don’t blame the kid, blame his overly protective of the chemical balance in his pool father.

On a positive note, the toilet training is going well. We haven’t had a pair of wet jocks or a sneaky number two in weeks. And I guess that’s where I’ll draw the line. Number one’s on the grass we can accept, no matter the audience. Number two’s. Well that’s one we just can’t cop Charlie boy. Love you so much my son.

Cliffo Hit 103.1

Check it Out

Jane Eyre

When: 2 November / 10.30am

Where: Townsville Civic Theatre

More info: www.whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au

Presented by Townsville City Council, Brontë’s gothic tale of a spirited orphan in search of love, family and a sense of belonging, blazes the country in 2022. Witness one of the most iconic pieces of English literature retold in a faithful yet fiercely original new stage adaptation. Following a childhood spent suffering at the hands of her cruel Aunt, Jane finds employment at Thornfield Hall - the impressive yet mysterious home of Edward Rochester. As Jane and Rochester become inexplicably drawn to each other, the dark secrets locked within the walls of Thornfield start to unravel.

Yoga for Happiness

When: 3 November / 6.30pm

Where: Townsville State School

More info: www.yogaaspirations.com.au

Annette Field, the yoga facilitator at Yoga Aspirations, respectfully encourages each participant to harmonise their body, mind and emotions through a holistic system of yoga that integrates asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques) and meditation. Workshops run regularly. Check the website for more information and to register.

Free Microchipping For Cats and Dogs

When: 5 November / 9.00am - 2.00pm

Where: Aitkenvale Library

More info: www.whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free microchipping is back! Townsville City Council is offering free microchipping to all registered dogs and cats with an approval in Townsville. Your pet must be registered with Council prior to booking your appointment. On arrival at the centre, dogs must be on leads and cats must be in cages, and kittens and puppies must be at least 8 weeks old.

Beach Rugby Australia Beach 5s

When: 18 - 20 November Where: The Strand

More info: www.beachrugbyaustralia.com.au

Beach Rugby Australia Beach 5s is a 5 aside sand-based competition based on modified rules of Rugby Union, Rugby League and Touch Footy. It’s the game you know - but not as you know it! Register a Premier 5s or Social team on the website or come and cheer from the sidelines. Entry is free for spectators, so bring the family, friends, camp chairs and esky, and your sun umbrella!

Riverway Movie Nights

When: 18 November / 6.30pm

Where: Riverway Oval

More info: www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

Pack a blanket and head down to Riverway with the kids for Riverway Movie Nights; Townsville’s open-air cinema under the stars. This month, you can watch ‘Space Jam: A New Legacy’. In this movie, a rogue artificial intelligence kidnaps the son of famed basketball player LeBron James, who then has to work with Bugs Bunny to win a basketball game. Remember to pack extra mozzie spray to keep the bugs at bay!

Travelling Film Festival Townsville

When: 5 - 7 November Where: Warrina Cineplex

More info: Travelling Film Festival

The Travelling Film Festival is coming back to Townsville with the world’s best cinema! Highly anticipated films from Australia, South Korea, Ireland, France, Morocco, Belgium, France and the Netherlands as well as an exceptional selection of Australian short films will have their local premieres in Townsville’s Travelling Film Festival.

PBR Monster Energy Tour Grand Finals

When: 25 - 26 November / 9.00pm

Where: Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre

More info: www.pbraustralia.com.au

As the final and deciding chapter of the PBR year-long race for National Titles, this event is a showdown like no other. Twenty-two riders all eager for glory as they strive to overcome the power of the most extreme bucking bulls in a head to head battle of power, agility and the fight of the fittest 8 seconds at a time over the course of 2 nights of competition. This is the one and only PBR Australia Grand Finals. Expect the unexpected!

Strand Night Markets

When: First Friday of every month Where: The Strand More info: www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au

Wind down at the Strand Night Markets on the first Friday of every month from February until December. Leading up to Christmas, you can find inspirational gifts, enjoy locally handmade art and products, and savour delicious food. Join family and friends and enjoy Townsville’s favourite markets. What better way to end the week!

Community Noticeboard

Apricus Health Welcomes New Team Member

More info: www.apricushealth.com.au

Occupational Therapist Kelly Treggalles joins the team at Apricus Health in October as the Team Leader for paediatric services. She has been working with children with additional needs and their families for over 20 years, both in Canada and Australia.

Behavioural Development for Children on the Autism Spectrum

Early Days is a series of FREE workshops for parents and family members of young children who are on the autism spectrum. The workshops are also suitable for parents who may have concerns about their child but have not received a formal diagnosis. Visit www.earlydays.com.au to register.

Positive Parenting Programs

The Triple P – Positive ParentingProgram® helps parents raisehealthy, well-adjusted childrenin a loving, environment.predictable Visit the AitkenvaleLibrary on 1 November at 9.30amfor this free event.

Orange Sky Townsville

Have you heard of Orange Sky Townsville? The Townsville charity van helps people on the street by providing free mobile laundry services and connects communities through non-judgemental conversations. www.orangesky.org.au

Christmas in the City

The countdown until Christmas is officially on! Save the date for Christmas In The City this year. The event will be held on 26 November at 5.30pm in Flinders Square. www.whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au

Please

www.pakmag.com.au

Celebrate the Achievement of this Local Legend

More Info: www.linktr.ee/iamaimeehair

While having a sick child is difficult for the whole family, Townsville local Monica Cazzulino found the strength to write a book - and help others along the way.

When Aimee’s third son was born, her oldest child was due to have operation #17. Surgery had become such a traumatic experience for him that he would kick, scream and thrash around while the Dr’s tried to put him to sleep. He was traumatised and Aimee would walk out crying. But instead of breaking down, Aimee had a breakthrough moment. Her book ‘Can You Smell the Rainbow’ was born and has since helped HUNDREDS of kids and their parents overcome the trauma of surgery! The book is available via an ebook or hardcopy.

CQUniversity Townsville Supports Locals

CQUniversity Townsville prides itself on being involved in the local community and is committed to enriching the region through a number of partnerships and sponsorships. The community oriented university is a ‘Van Sponsor’ of Orange Sky, Australia’s first Townsville hybrid shower and laundry van. They also support the Townsville Business Women’s Circle and offer up to 10 community grants to local community groups.

Aside from generously supporting local communities, CQUniversity has a reputation for high-quality student support, decades of distance education experience, and courses designed to meet industry needs. If you’re contemplating enrolling, you can rest assured that CQUniversity is recognised among the best universities in the world and you will be supported every step of the way from enrolment through to graduation. Check out www.cqu.edu.au for more details or call the student support hotline on 13 27 86 to get all your questions answered.

Get Involved!

We’d love to hear from you! Head to www.paktownsville.com.au/community to submit community news or a notice, and also view the full community noticeboard online.

What’s On Townsville

TUESDAY 1 NOVEMBER

Melbourne Cup at The Seaview Seaview Hotel

11.30 am / $169.89 / 18+ www.stayhappening.com

Cluden Park Melbourne Cup Cluden Park

11.00am / $20.00 - $212.09 / 18+ www.cludenpark.com.au

Melbourne Cup Luncheon Townsville RSL 11.30am / $85.00 / M www.townsvillersl.com.au

Sk8 M8s Social Skate Night Runs until 29 November North Shore

6.00pm - 7.00pm / FREE / PG SK8 M8S

Triple P for ToddlersParent Information Session City Libraries Aitkenvale

9.30am - 10.30am / FREE / PG www.townsville.qld.gov.au

WEDNESDAY 2 NOVEMBER

Zumba with Merryl Runs until 30 November Heatley Community Centre 6.00pm - 6.45pm / $10.00 / PG Zumba with Merryl

Jane Eyre

Townsville Civic Theatre

10.30am / 7.00pm / $25.00 / PG www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

THURSDAY 3 NOVEMBER

Art-box

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

10.30am - 11.30am / FREE / PG www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Yoga for Happiness

Townsville State School

6.30pm - 8.00pm / $20.00 / PG www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

Yinda Dolls - Teen Workshop

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

6.00pm - 8.00pm / FREE / Ages 12 - 17 www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free dinner for Infants Runs weekly Thursday - Sunday Palm House

6.00pm - 8.30pm / FREE / Ages 0 - 5 www.the-ville.com.au

FRIDAY 4 NOVEMBER

Strand Night Markets Strand Park

5.00pm - 9.30pm / FREE / PG www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Get Connected Friday City Library

9.30am - 10.30am / FREE / PG www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Koi Pond’ Paint & Sip

Tipsy Doodle at Fur-Mum’s

6.30pm - 9.30pm / $49.00 / 18+ www.tipsydoodle.com.au

Travelling Film Festival

Townsville Runs until 7 November Warrina Cineplex 7.00pm / $14.00 / M

Travelling Film Festival

SATURDAY 5 NOVEMBER

Queensland Police Service Open Day Townsville Police Acadamy 9.00 am - 1.00 pm / FREE / PG www.gradaustralia.com.au

Free Dogs and Cats Microchipping City Library Aitkenvale

9.00am - 2.00pm / FREE / PG www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

Resin Serving Board Workshop

Mike Carney Creative Industries Centre

9.00am - 11.00am / $65.00 / M

Mike Carney Creative Industries Centre

Transplant Sports Training Weekend Tobruk Kiosk

4.00pm / FREE / PG julie.scudds@transplant.org.au

Babies & Kids Expo

Townsville Stadium 8.00am - 1.00pm / FREE / PG www.nthqldbabiesandkids market.com

SUNDAY 6 NOVEMBER

Camera Photography Workshop

Jezzine Park

3.30pm / $96.00 / PG www.philcoppphotos.com

Willows Rotary Markets

Willows Shopping Centre

7.30am - 11.30am / FREE / PG

Willows Rotary Markets

Magnetic Island Markets Horseshoe Bay Foreshore 9.00am - 2.00pm / FREE / PG

Magnetic Island Markets

| www.pakmag.com.au

With HIT 103.1’s Nate

Get Ready Townsville Jezzine Barracks

9.00am - 12.00pm / FREE / PG Get Ready Townsville

Transplant Sports Training Weekend Tobruk Kiosk 4.00pm / FREE / PG julie.scudds@transplant.org.au

MONDAY 7 NOVEMBER

Understanding Behaviour Webinar

12.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / PG www.earlydays.com.au

Kids Eat Free Monday’s at Quarterdeck Runs weekly on Mondays Quarterdeck 11.30am - 9.00pm / PG www.the-ville.com.au

Free breakfast for Infants Runs weekly MondayFriday Palm House 6.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Ages 0 - 5 www.the-ville.com.au

TUESDAY 8 NOVEMBER

Stella’s Creative Pottery Classes

Cleveland Terrace

10.00am - 12.00pm / $25.00 / PG

Stella’s Creative Pottery Classes

North Queensland Camera Group City Library Aitkinvale

7.00pm - 9.00pm / $5.00 / PG www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Helping my Child Cope with Change Webinar

10.00am - 12.00pm / FREE / PG www.earlydays.com.au

WEDNESDAY 9 NOVEMBER

My Child & Autism Uniting Care

10.00am – 2.00pm / FREE / PG www.earlydays.com.au

THURSDAY 10 NOVEMBER

Yoga for Happiness

Townsville State School

6.30pm - 8.00pm / $20.00 / 15+ www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

Developing my Child’s Independence Skills (eating) Webinar

9.00am - 11.00am / FREE / PG www.earlydays.com.au

FRIDAY 11 NOVEMBER

Crazy Aussie Emus’ Paint & Sip Tipsy Doodle at Fur-Mum’s 6.00pm - 9.30pm / $48.50 / 18+ www.tipsydoodle.com.au

Developing my Child’s Independence Skills Webinar 9.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / G www.earlydays.com.au

All Fired Up

Townsville Civic Theatre 8.00pm / $22.50 - $40.00 / G www.townsville.qld.gov.au

WEDNESDAY 16 NOVEMBER

MM The Christmas Belle Townsville Civic Theatre 11.00am - 12.30pm / $15.00$17.50 / PG www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

THURSDAY 17 NOVEMBER

Yoga for Happiness Townsville State School

6.30pm - 8.00pm / $20.00 / 15+

www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

FRIDAY 18 NOVEMBER

Riverway Movies Riverway Oval

6.30pm - 8.00pm / FREE / G www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

Crazy Aussie Emus’ Paint and Sip Tipsy Doodle at Fur-Mum’s 6.00pm – 9.30pm / $48.50 / PG www.tipsydoodle.com.au

SATURDAY 19 NOVEMBER

Northern Australian Beach 5s Rugby Championships Runs until 20 November

The Strand Various Times / $150.00$250.00 / G www.beachrugby australia.com.au

What’s On

THURSDAY 24 NOVEMBER

Yoga for Happiness

Townsville State School

6.30pm - 8.00pm / $20.00 / 15+ www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER

2022 JBD Christmas Party

The Rockpool Pavillion 12.00pm - 3.00pm / $75.00$85.00 / M www.tbwc.com.au

PBR Monster Energy Tour

Grand Finals

Runs until 26 November

Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre 9.00pm - 11.30pm / $35.00$125.00 / PG www.tecc.net.au

SATURDAY 26 NOVEMBER

Christmas in the City Flinders Square

5.30pm - 9.00pm / FREE / G www.whatson.townsville .qld.gov.au

Northshore Community Market Market Square 8.00am - 12.00pm / FREE / G www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

WEDNESDAY 30 NOVEMBER

Country Market Day Thurwingowa RSL Club 9.00am / FREE / PG www.townsvillersl.com.au

Junior MyGolf Program Term 4 Runs until 30 November Townsville Golf Club

3.45pm - 4.30pm / $89.00 / Ages 5 - 10 www.townsvillegolfclub.com.au

SUNDAY 4 DECEMBER

Carols By Candlelight Riverway Oval

4.00pm - 8.30pm / FREE www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au

MONDAY 5 DECEMBER

Kids Eat Free Monday’s at Quarterdeck Runs weekly on Mondays Quarterdeck 11.30am - 9.00pm / PG www.the-ville.com.au

Free Breakfast for Infants Runs weekly MondayFriday Palm House 6.30am - 10.00am / FREE

With Triple M’s Pricey

/ Ages 0 - 5 www.the-ville.com.au

THURSDAY 8 DECEMBER

Free Dinner for Infants Runs weekly Thursday - Sunday Palm House

6.00pm - 8.30am / FREE / Ages 0 - 5 www.the-ville.com.au

SUNDAY 18 DECEMBER

Stable at Riverway Runs until 22 December Riverway 5.30pm - 9.00pm / FREE / PG www.stablenq.com.au

Regular Events

MONDAYS

Qi Gong

Runs sporadically until 19 December

Inner Light Meditation Centre 5.30pm - 6.30pm / $15.00 / G www.innerlightmeditation centre.com

TUESDAYS

Toddler Time

During school term.

Townsville Stadium

9.00am / FREE (bookings required) / for carers and toddlers aged 24 + months www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Baby Rhyme Time

During school term.

Townsville Stadium

10.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for parents and babies 0 to 24 months www.townsville.qld.gov.au

North Queensland Camera Group

First Tuesday of each month

QCWA – Magnetic Garbutt First meet FREE / G www.nqcg.org.au

WEDNESDAYS

Baby Rhyme Time

During school term.

CityLibraries Thuringowa Central 9.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for parents and babies 0 to 24 months www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Toddler Time

During school term.

CityLibraries Thuringowa Central

10.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for carers and toddlers aged 24 + months www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Flashback Dance BYO Baby Class Runs weekly Railway Estate Community Centre 12.30pm / $12.00 / G E flashbackdancetownsville@ outlook.com

THURSDAYS

Yoga for Happiness 5 week programs, run weekly until 15 December

Regular Markets

Townsville South State School

6.30pm - 8.00pm / $100.00 / M www.yogaaspirations.com.au

Playtime at the Library with First 5 Forever Runs weekly

Hinchinbrook Shire Library

10.30am / FREE / Ages 0 - 5 www.library.hinchinbrook.qld. gov.au

Baby Rhyme Time

During school term.

CityLibraries Thuringowa Central

10.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for parents and babies 0 to 24 months www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Storytime

During school term.

CityLibraries Thuringowa Central

9.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for carers and children aged 3 years + www.townsville.qld.gov.au

FRIDAYS

Moulin Rogue

Runs until 17 December

Stage Door Theatre Restaurant, Magnetic Island

5.00pm - 9.00pm / $95.00 / PG www.stagedoortheatre.com.au

Little Learners

Runs weekly during school terms

Museum of Tropical Queensland

10.00am - 10.45am / FREE / children aged 3-6 www.athome.qm.qld.gov.au

Breathwork Sessions

Runs weekly

Inner Light Meditation Centre

7.00pm - 8.00pm / FREE / G www.innerlightmeditation centre.com

SATURDAYS

Establishing the Basics - Yoga 5 week yoga programs, Runs until 17 December

Townsville South State School 8.00am - 9.15am / $100 per course / M www.yogaaspirations.com.au/

Many markets are subject to weather conditions and community guidelines, so please check with market organisers and relevant communities before visiting.

Bluewater Twilight Markets

February - December

Second Saturday of the month

4.00pm - 8.00pm

Bluewater Community Centre

Bushland Beach Markets

March - December

First and third Sunday of the month

8.00am – 12.00pm

On the foreshore, End of Mount Low Parkway

Renegade Handmade Markets

Second Sunday of the month 8.00am – 12.00pm

Marian School Hall

Balgal Beach Markets

First Saturday of the month

8.00am - 1.00pm

The Esplanade, Balgal Beach Strand Night Markets

March - December

First Friday of the month

5.00pm - 9.30pm

Strand Park, North Ward

Mundingburra Markets

Third Sunday of the month

7.30am - 12.00pm

Mundingburra State School

Willows Rotary Markets

Every Sunday

7.30am - 11.30am

Willows Shopping Centre Car Park

www.pakmag.com.au

Cotters Markets

Every Sunday

8.30am - 1.00pm

Flinders St

Magnetic Island Markets

April - January

Every Sunday

9.00am – 2.00pm

Foreshore in Horseshoe Bay

Mercer Lane Markets

April - December

First Saturday of the month

From 8.30am – 12.00pm

Lannercost St, Ingham

New Look Conroy Markets

March - December

Second Saturday of the month

8.00am – 12.00pm

Conroy Hall, Ingham

Wulguru Markets

Every Sunday

7.00am – 12.00pm

Wulguru Soccer Grounds 14 Edison Street, Wulguru, Ingham

Raintree Community Markets

First and Third Sunday of the month from 7.00am - 12.00pm Rotary Park, Ingham

Forrest Beach Markets May - October

Fourth Sunday of every month

8.00am – 12.00pm 9 - 11 Palm St, Forrest Beach

Please check with individual businesses before visiting.