PakMag Townsville - Mar 2018 Issue 88

ISSUE: Mar 2018

88

TOWNSVILLE

SIMPLE STEPS TO A HEALTHIER HOME

FERTILITY TO FIRST BIRTHDAY QUEEN’S BATON RELAY FREE

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 1

CONTENTS Welcome to the March edition of PakMag.

4

Entertainment: Check It Out

7

The Thing Is with Bree James

8

Feature: Queens Baton Relay

Queen’s Baton makes its way to Townsville on 18 March and we were lucky

11

Fertility to First Baby

enough to catch up with some of the batonbearers. Check out the feature

15 Principal’s Pen 17

Expert Advice

19 Health 21 Little Snappers Swim School 23 Bump, Bub and Beyond:

Determining Gender

24 Bump, Bub and Beyond: WIN

March really is an exciting month, especially for events. This month the

story on page 8.

March is the month of maternity and on Sunday, 11 March, you’ll be able to check out a whole range of guest speakers, local businesses and service providers at the Early Years Expo and Welcoming Babies Ceremony held at Townsville Stadium.

And what’s a month of events without an amazing PakMag event? PakMag’s Easter Eggstravaganza will be held on Thursday, 22 March from 4.30pm – 6.00pm. This year we’re doing things a little different. In true PakMag style,

27 What’s On Guide

there will be plenty of chocolate and prizes, but you’ll also get something

29 Mini Mag

a little extra – free skating! That’s right, this year’s event will be held at

37 School Holiday Guide 40 Snapped 43 Developmental Disabilities

in Children

Sk8way, so don’t miss out!

So, have fun this March, make the most of the last of Term One, school holidays are almost upon us!

Until next time, don’t forget to tell them you read it in PakMag

47 Gross Motor Play 49 Helping Hands 51 Healthy Recipes 53 Coralee O’Rourke 54 Celebrate: Party Vibes

with the Tides

Bree James Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief

58 Daddy Diary

On the cover Emily, Tony, Traci, Carly, Jack and Rhys Batten Photography Josephine Carter Photography, www.josephinecarterphotography.com Contact Us: p 4053 3331 f 4053 3350 e admin@grandpublishing.com.au a PO Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870 / Unit 5, 78 Anderson St, Cairns fb facebook.com/pakmagtownsville t #pakmag

Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James

Marketing to Families Experts Lisa Gillman Janelle May

Operations Manager Rose Foster

Sub-Editor Kate Moloney

Graphic Designer Clare Winter

Accounts Trent Stievano

56 Homewith Caro and Kingi:

Healthy Living

Supply & Distribution Manager Gleisy Meireles Media Intern Monique Saggers Social Media Intern Kalisha Fitsch

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.

Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2018

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 3

Entertainment

CHECK IT OUT Nth Qld Babies and Kids Market When: Saturday, 3 March, 8.30am to 12.30pm Where: Emmaus Hall Ryan Catholic College, Morindo Dr More Info: www.nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com North Queensland Babies and Kids Market has good quality, pre-loved, new and handmade items, plus information and promotional stalls. Join this exciting morning shopping for bargains and beautifully handmade items. Tickets $2 Adult | Kids free

Townsville City Council Early Years Expo When: Sunday, 11 March 2018 Where: Townsville Stadium More Info: whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Come along to the very first Early Years Expo, a FREE community event which will showcase workshops, guest speakers, various exhibitors and stalls, plus free activities for the kids. The expo is designed to provide education and support to young families who are expecting or have children up to five years of age.

Castletown Easter Fun Days When: Thursday, 29 March, 3.30pm to 7.00pm When: Saturday, 31 March, 11.00pm to 2.00pm Where: CastleTown Townsville More Info: www.castletown.com.au

Townsville City Council Riverway Movie Night When: Friday, 16 March, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Where: Riverway Oval More Info: whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Bring your blanket along and enjoy the free open-air movie under the stars and raintrees at Riverway! This month’s movie is “The Croods”.

The Cathedral School Kindy and Prep Open Morning When: Wednesday, 14 March at 9.00am Where: The Cathedral School of St. Anne & St. James More Info: www.cathedral.qld.edu.au Meet the staff, see the classes in action and gain an insight into Cathedral’s early childhood program. Bookings are essential.

4 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Hop on down to CastleTown this Easter for some family fun. With fairy floss, face painting and special visits from the Easter Bunny, it’s a great way to celebrate this festive season!

World's Greatest Shave 2018 When: Wednesday, 14 to Sunday 18 March Where: Various Locations More Info: www.worldsgreatestshave.com Hop along for a great cause, get sponsored to shave your hair and help Aussie families beat blood cancer. You’ll receive a kit with goodies and your own online fundraising page, all for free. It’s easy and FUN.

Queen's Baton Relay When: Sunday, 18 to Monday 19 March Where: Townsville More Info: download the route maps at www.townsville.qld.gov.au Join Townsville City Council for the 2018 Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay. This is a once in a life time opportunity for local residents to be a part of the Baton’s epic journey as it moves through Townsville.

Pakmag Easter Eggstravaganza When: Thursday, 22 March, 4.30pm to 6.00pm Where: Sk8way More Info: Facebook/PakmagTownsville Head down to Sk8way this Easter for our very special Easter Eggstravaganza. This year we’re doing things a little differently and inviting you all to join us for a skate at Sk8way for FREE! Plus plenty of chocolate and prizes!

FREE Event

Easter Family Fun Days When: Thursday, 29 March, 3.30pm to 7.00pm When: Saturday, 31 March, 11.00am to 2.00pm Where: Castletown More Info: www.castletown.com.au Castletown is serving up some Easter Fun. Fairy Floss & Face Painting for the kids with special visits from the Easter Bunny.

The Thing Is

The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James

I remember being at a business luncheon, running to the toilet as they put my meal down as I felt really unwell.

I have no idea what the speaker spoke about from that moment on. My brain was running through everything I had eaten the past 48 hours trying to work out why I felt so sick. But this felt a little different, everything smelled disgusting, and I was getting waves of hot flushes then waves of nausea. Then it hit me. OMG, maybe I am pregnant. I was out of that lunch so fast, stopped at Woolies, grabbed a test and headed back to the office to force out a pee. The stick instantly showed a positive, I smiled and laughed, then panicked and cried as my current life flashed before me. I was going to have a baby.

The thing is, even if you are trying to have a baby, no one can prepare a mother to be for this moment.

In fact, nothing can really prepare you for parenthood full stop.

With two boys, now aged 6 and 9, I never expected the things that I was going to learn. The gross things I would learn. The things I wish I really didn’t learn.

1. That babies can poop really far with a nappy off. Like, metres. My first month home with baby in the middle of the night, I recall dodging just in time to miss my face, poop that hit my shoulder and the clean washing behind me.

2. That baby boys get erections from birth. Like, all the time. As a mother, it is very disturbing and difficult to change a nappy forcing a little stiffy to point anywhere but up so the pee doesn’t fly out the top of the nappy next time.

3. That boys will stick their doodles from a very young age into pretty much anything. Even the arch of a book spine to see if it fits whilst reading.

4. That they never grow out of sticking weird stuff in their mouth and licking stuff that makes you dry reach.

5. That personal space is gone, probably forever. Kids have a special radar that goes off when you pull your pants down, sit down to eat or rest, pick up the phone, or hop in the shower.

6. That little people can excrete smells that make you think something has died inside them. It seems to occur only when you are in public, especially small shops and elevators to have the most impact, and when people can’t tell if it’s you or your kids.

7. That children have no filter. They will say anything that comes to their mind. Like “Mummy, look at that OOLLLLDDD MANNNN, is he going to die?!”

Really loud.

Kids (especially boys), in a nutshell, really are gross.

Our job is to try and get them to be not so gross as they grow into adults… But I think most women who have a man in their lives will agree, that unfortunately some of these traits are life long skills. Us women would never excrete a smell in public, we save that for the confines of our home and it always smells like roses anyway.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 7

Josephine Carter Photography

Stepping into history – Queen’s Baton Relay STORY Kate Moloney The Queen’s Baton Relay is a Commonwealth Games tradition, and we are fortunate to have the Queen’s Baton passing through Townsville on Sunday 18th and Monday 19th March on its way to its final destination of the Gold Coast for the Opening Ceremony of the 2018 Commonwealth games on the 4th April.

The Queen’s Baton Relay is a celebration of our Commonwealth’s diversity and inspires community pride.

Batonbearers represent the spirit of the Commonwealth and have been selected to be a part of history, a great honour indeed and we congratulate all our ‘local legend’ Batonbearers on their selection.

We were lucky enough to chat with these Townsville region ‘local legends’ who have the honour of taking some of many million steps that it will take to deliver the Queen’s Baton to its final destination.

EMILY BATTEN

to the endless hours of training and competing that this has involved.

Fourteen-year-old Townsville local, Emily, who adorns this month’s front cover with her beautiful family, is an all-round local sporting legend, having represented her school in athletics, swimming, cross country running and touch football.

It was Emily’s school, St Anthony’s Catholic College, that nominated her and to say that she is excited would be an understatement. Emily would like to take this opportunity to thank her school for nominating her which has given her this amazing opportunity.

Emily was nominated for her amazing sporting achievements and for her dedication and commitment

Emily feels truly honoured to be running with the baton at the Townsville Sports Reserve on Sunday 18th March

8 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Feature

at 4.58pm for her leg of the Queen’s Baton Relay. Make sure you get down to cheer her on as this is an honour that has been earnt through lots of hard work and is one that it is very deserving.

We asked Emily for one piece of inspirational advice that she would like to share with other kids of Townsville and this is what she said: “Never give up and keep striving for your goals.”

JAN EVANS

JAEDON TROWER Jaedon is a talented 11-year-old from Mundingburra State School. Not only is he School Captain this year, but Jaedon also plays cello in the Strings Orchestra, is a member of his school’s Science Mates club and has also achieved many accolades in Rugby League too.

Grandmother of ten, Jan is originally from Victoria, but after living in Tropical Townsville in Qld for the last 19 years, this is where she calls home.

Her role at Cranbrook State School in Townsville as a Crossing Supervisor is one she absolutely cherishes.

Jan loves to greet the children, morning and afternoon, along with their families, parents, grandparents & carers.

With her dedication to her position and the positive start and end to the day that she gives to those who meet her, it is no wonder that Jan was nominated to run in the Queen’s Baton Relay.

Jan’s anticipated segment starting time is 4.30pm on Sunday, 18 March at The Strand and Wickham street, Townsville, so make sure you get down there and give her a wave. Be prepared to share the road with her large family though; we’re sure they will all be out to support her!

Last year, Jaedon was selected for Townsville School Boys and then NQ team for Rugby League, he’s also a member of the U12s Stingers Academy in Townsville.

He plays club rugby league for Centrals too!

Jaedon’s inspiration comes largely from his older brother, David, who is also a talented rugby player. Now in Grade 12, David is the Captain of the Opens Team at Pimlico State High School and his skills and dedication to rugby league is what inspired Jaedon to keep striving for more in the sport too. Jaedon says that his school’s motto is one he always tries to follow: “we learn, we care, we persevere”.

Jaedon was nominated by his school and he is grateful, particularly to the school’s Principal, Mrs Sue Royale for putting him forward to take part in the Queen’s Baton Relay. He feels truly honoured and says, “I would never be where I am without the help of all the teachers who have taught me at Mundingburra State School.”

Jaedon’s run starts at 8.20am on Monday, 19th March from 42 Ross River Road. He’s excited to be running right past his school, and we’re sure that his classmates and teachers will be cheering him on.

We asked Jan for one piece of inspirational advice that she would like to share with parents and children of Townsville and this is what she said:

We asked Jaedon for one piece of inspirational advice that he would like to share with other kids of Townsville and this is what he said:

“Always strive to be helpful to others, and be forever kind in actions and words.”

“Always follow your dreams no matter what it is in, and be compassionate and respectful to everyone.”

If you want to follow the Queen’s Baton Relay on its journey to the Gold Coast or want to discover who is carrying the Baton and when then go to www.gc2018.com/qbr.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 9

Parenting

Fertility to First Birthday STORY Rose Foster Finding out you’re pregnant, whether it’s for the first or the fifth time, is a very exciting moment in any couple’s life. But once the initial excitement has subsided, the realisation that the next nine months will be jam-packed with preparation for baby’s arrival can be very daunting indeed.

Knowing your options can help you feel more at ease as you face this new chapter of your family’s life. So, if you’re a parent-to-be or a new parent, PakMag is here to help with our A to Z guide of all things fertility to first birthday!

In Townsville, we’re lucky enough to have a great annual Early Years Expo run by Townsville City Council, so planning your pregnancy, birth and baby’s first year has never been easier. This year, the Early Years Expo takes place on Sunday, 11 March at Townsville Stadium. With health professionals, early childhood educators, parental support groups, tiny tot activity groups and more, you’ll leave well equipped to deal with this new chapter of your family’s life. The event also includes two Welcoming Babies Ceremonies, a special event where babies are officially welcomed to their city of birth by the Mayor of Townsville. The next Welcoming Babies Ceremony will be held on 9th September, so make sure you register if your baby will be born before then.

I’m pregnant, now what?

One of the first things to consider is your healthcare and birthing options, and a big consideration when it comes to this is whether you want to go public or private.

If you go via the public system, your first step is to visit your GP, who will guide you through your pregnancy, including referring you for scans and tests. In Townsville, you will have the option of giving birth in the Townsville Birth Centre at Townsville Hospital or at home with a midwife present (ask your GP about this option as it’s not available for everyone).

The private system will allow you to choose your own obstetrician who will look after you throughout your pregnancy and during your labour. If you’d like to choose this route, you will likely give birth at the Mater Private Hospital which is a fantastic option.

With 21 maternity rooms and five birth suite, as well as four operating theatres, the dedicated Women’s Unit at the Mater Private hospital is well equipped to care for you before, during and after birth. A full suite of services are provided, including antenatal classes, pre-admission clinic, postnatal clinic, photography, Look@MyBaby live

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 11

Parenting

internet feed, specialist breast feeding consultants and more. The Women’s Unit also accommodates partners wishing to stay overnight. For more information on this option, visit www.matertsv.org.au There are also other professionals that you may want to consider too, including doulas and hypnobirthing.

What else should I prepare?

Between painting the nursery, buying the pram and maternity wear shopping, the list of what you need to prepare before baby arrives can feel endless. Breaking this down into three categories can make it feel more manageable: home, baby, self.

Home Make sure you prepare your home for baby’s arrival.

This, of course, includes preparing your baby’s room and baby proofing but you should also consider purchasing things that will make your life with a new born a little easier. A comfy feeding chair, a state of the art baby monitor, a night time baby ‘shusher’ and baby food maker.

You can also hire baby equipment which is great if you’re holidaying or you don’t want to splurge on buying your own. With hire periods of up to 6 months, companies such as Hire for Baby offer a range of products such as capsules, breast pumps and cots and for PakMag readers, there’s 5 per cent off! Simply visit www.hireforbaby.com and enter the code PAKMAG for your discount. Plus, if you hire a Medela Symphony breast pump and decide to buy one, you’ll receive 30 per cent off!

Baby In terms of what you need to buy for baby, our advice is to not go overboard and buy months’ worth of clothing; you don’t know how big or small your baby will be, how fast they’ll grow, or how much stuff you’ll be given by friends and family. For the shopping you do need to do, we recommend heading to Elle J in the Domain Centre to shop for clothes, toys and accessories. Plus you can pick up some great maternity wear items for yourself too.

Make sure you also have items to wash and change baby too, but just like the clothes, don’t buy too many nappies before you know if your baby will fit into them!

Self With a bundle of joy growing inside you, it can sometimes be easy to focus all of your attention on making sure baby is ok and well-prepared for. This is even more the case when baby arrives. Looking after your little one takes precedence and thinking about your own needs is the furthest thing from you mind.

Repeat after me, “I will look after myself”!

First and foremost, look after your body. Exercise such as Pilates is brilliant for pregnancy and there are a number of studios in Townsville to choose from.

And finally, don’t forget some retail therapy for yourself!

Investing in a maternity dress or two can not only make you feel like you have something comfy to throw on, but it can also give you some self-confidence that you may be lacking. Check out Elle J in the Domain Centre for some beautiful items, or check out Queen Bee who have offered PakMag readers a 5% discount on maternity wear, so head to www.queenbee.com.au and use code PM18.

Baby is here!

So, your baby has arrived, now what? Well, aside from the day in, day out routine of feeding, changing and sleeping, there are some other things that you could consider at this point.

If your baby isn’t sleeping well, services such as a sleep consultant may be the key to a peaceful night’s sleep. Townsville has a number of professionals who can help your situation to have your baby sleeping like, well, a baby!

Why not opt for some physical development time at Inflatable Kingdom Townsville? This great indoor play area offers an area for little ones and at $11 for a twoand-a-half-hour session (for under 5s), it’s an affordable way to spend some time in between naps! Visit them at Unit 4 / 78 - 88 Harvey Range Road.

For some free fun, City Libraries offers a range of classes including Baby Rhyme Time, StoryTime and Toddle Time to entertain and engage your little one in an environment aimed at developing your child’s pre-literacy and social skills. Every week at Flinders Street, Thuringowa Central and Aitkenvale, the libraries offer free classes for little ones. Check out www.whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au for more details.

So, congratulations on your bundle of joy and good luck! There is obviously much more to learn about what to expect and what to do but we hope this little guide to what’s available in your area has steered you in the right direction!

12 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Principal’s Pen

PRINCIPAL’S PEN

Townsville Grammar School

The Cathedral School

Timothy Kelly, Principal

The Cathedral Junior School, is proud to be an educational facility of excellence where the focus is on the child. Personalised learning is achieved through developing a strong sense of connection between the student, family and the educators.

Students of The Cathedral School develop skills for curriculum and skills for life through provocation and wonder where children’s interests and strengths are acknowledged and brought into the learning environment. Provoking learning is key to our work. Every advantage has been taken to create a school that provides real, social and open educational experiences for individual students. This is achieved through carefully aligned curriculum and intentional, personalised teaching.

Many parents quite rightly ask the question, “What do I seek from a school?” when they are considering the best education for their children. As a parent of three children, it is certainly a question I asked myself. From my experience, everyone answers this question with a different perspective. Some parents are focused on the curriculum and academic outcomes, while others are more interested in pastoral programs, others may be attracted to the co-curricular life of a school.

For me, a school has succeeded in serving its students when it can define itself as a place: •• where a culture of high expectations and academic challenge and rigor is present; •• where children are known and supported through positive, caring relationships; and •• where young people are guided to develop their sense of moral direction and courage.

Luke Baills, Head of Junior School

Personalised learning can only begin to take place after acknowledgement of all learners’ extensive prior knowledge. Learners are shaped by life experiences and cultural heritage, creating a rich and diverse knowledge base and skill set upon which further learning can extend.

Even though I am in my early days at the Townsville Grammar School, I see these three attributes in abundance. The School’s academic strength and success speaks for itself but it is in the supportive relationships between staff and students and the application of programmes such as Positive Education that I see young people being guided to become good people. If you are interested in a Grammar School education, I encourage you to come and see these attributes in action.

Learning goals form the basis of differentiation and are developed from this intentional acknowledgement of students’ understandings, interests, passions and developmental readiness.

We like to view our teaching in a framework of teaching 20 individual children, as opposed to teaching a class of 20.

e tgs@tgs.qld.edu.au www.townsvillegrammar.com

e tcs@cathedral.qld.edu.au www.cathedral.qld.edu.au

The Cathedral Junior School believes children are successful when they are acknowledged, feel connection and are encouraged to wonder.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 15

Expert Advice

THE PAKMAG EXPERTS COASTAL KIDS SPEECH PATHOLOGY

RUHL FAMILY LAW CENTRE

Dear Melanie,

Dear Ruhl Family Law Centre,

My child is having some issues with his development, but I'm not sure whether to see a Speech Pathologist or an Occupational Therapist?

My partner and I have just separated - when should I see a Lawyer?

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) help kids, and adults, with all aspects of communication, as well as swallowing and feeding. An SLP might be able to assist if you are concerned about:

It's important to get advice at an early stage, so that you are empowered with knowledge about what you should do, and also what you should perhaps avoid.

It is important to get proper advice from a Family Law Solicitor.

•• How well your child is talking.

•• How they interact with other children.

•• Their learning to read and write.

•• Their eating skills.

An Occupational Therapist's (OTs) role is to assist children who need support to do daily activities. This often is in the shape of: •• Fine motor skills for dressing or writing.

•• Assistance with toileting.

•• Other self-help skills.

OTs also assist children who have difficulties with processing different sensory information.

Quite often children with developmental difficulties need input from both SLPs and OTs.

Don't risk being misinformed by well-meaning friends, family or colleagues. Even if they have been through a separation, every circumstance is unique and things that may have applied to them may not necessarily apply to you.

It may be that there are some steps that need to be taken in the near future after separation, to protect your interests. In other circumstances, it may be that no steps need to be taken for some time and naturally, one or both people may want some breathing space before starting negotiations to formalise their property settlement or parenting arrangements.

However, we recommend you get advice early so that you have the reassurance that you are making informed decisions from an early stage.

BLOMBERG DENTAL Dear Blomberg Dental, I have a three-month-old and her teeth are starting to poke through. How and when should I start her dental care?

The milestone of baby’s first tooth can be as early as six weeks and as late as 12 months, but it is important to know that you can begin taking care of your baby’s oral health even before the first tooth appears. Simply wipe baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth twice per day.

When her first teeth further appear, you can use a similar method with a damp cloth on the teeth and gums or use a soft brush (if she’ll let you!) using water only. When she is 18 months old, you can then introduce a low-fluoride toothpaste making sure only to use a pea-sized amount. It is often easier to do this when she is lying down.

We encourage you to introduce this gum and teeth cleaning into her daily routine as a baby as good habits start from a young age. These good dental hygiene habits will then be with her through her toddler years, her teenage years and into adulthood.

The time for her first visit to the dentist should be before she turns two. At Blomberg Dental, we love to see ‘little’ patients. This helps us spot signs of issues early, and it also helps your child to develop a positive association with oral care from a young age.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 17

Health

HEALTH Having the ‘chat’ with your son

CLASSROOM bugs: BUGS: Classroom PART Part 1

STORY Mat May

STORY Dr Nicole Higgins

My children continually provide me with some of my most rewarding experiences.

However, they also come with many challenges, and for a dad, one of those is the conversation I must have with my son.

He is approaching ‘that age’ and, I’m sure, beginning to wonder about his changing body, so I now find myself gearing up for his inevitable questions.

“Hello Ms Jones. Sophie isn’t feeling well. Could you please come and pick her up from the sick bay?”

Why does this always happen as you are half way through your grocery shop or heading into an important meeting? The classroom is not only a breeding ground for fertile imaginations but also for school bugs.

While there’s often no realistic way to prevent children catching

But, should I initiate this conversation?

When is a good time? Should I wait for him to come to me? If he comes to me, do I use the correct anatomical terms for ‘things’ or do I use cute euphemisms? Should it be a serious conversation or do I lighten it with ‘Dad’ humour? Am I overthinking it?

infections at school, being able to spot the symptoms means

While I don’t consider myself a parenting expert, I do like to think I have been doing a good job so far, and this is such an important phase of his development, so I want to get it right. With that in mind, I did what any responsible dad in my situation would do… I got a book!

Snot, coughs and sore throats are usually caused by a virus. Viruses

There are a number of books available that cover everything from body changes to mood swings to new found desires and urges. They comprehensively cover any questions he may have about his transition into puberty, and you can then quite easily expand on anything he is unsure of.

streptococcus bacterial infection that lives on the skin. More

Reading such literature has made a potentially difficult and awkward conversation much simpler for both my son and myself which, I think, will allow him to accept his changing body and understand his changing attitudes without any undue worry.

parents can manage the illness and potentially stop them spreading the bugs. Over the next three editions of PakMag, we will look at the top five school bugs, starting with the top two: 1. Coughs and colds.

are treated with fluids and rest as antibiotics don’t make any difference. Viruses are often easy to catch, but their spread can be reduced by keeping your child at home and good hand hygiene.

2. School Sores (aka Impetigo).

These crusty yellow sores are caused by a staphylococcal or common during the warmer months, Impetigo gets into the deeper layers of the skin through cuts and sores. These sores are filled with bacteria which can weep; which makes it a highly contagious infection. Impetigo is generally not dangerous but usually needs a trip to the GP to get treated with antibiotics. Good hand hygiene, covering the sores with a dressing and not picking at scabs are the key to stopping this spreading amongst friends and family.

Young children tend to get sick more often as they build up an immunity however if you are concerned, your family GP is always there to help.

Boost your iron levels An easily digestible, tasty and non-constipating iron supplement for treating iron deficiency for adults. Maltofer Syrup is easy on the stomach and tastebuds and perfect for use during pregnancy.

Boost your iron levels without the nasty side effects of other supplements.

Available at your local Calanna Whole Health Pharmacy.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 19

Advertorial

Swimming is a ‘must do’ activity in the first year of an infant’s life STORY Chris Dellit, CEO and program director of Little Snappers Swim Schools.

Award winning teacher trainer ‘presenter of excellence’ and member of the Swim Australia ACE team.

Babies are born with a natural affinity for the water, and our educational water familiarisation programs can enhance this relationship. For both parents, carers and babies these programs are the beginning of a wonderful aquatic journey in our warm, secure and loving environment. They promote stimulation, movement, touch, bonding, intellect, visual, audio, social-emotional and physical development.

Plus, the results are in! Researchers from the Griffith Institute for Educational Research has concluded after a seven-year study of 7,000 children under five years, that the swimming kids achieved physical milestones faster and also scored better in visual-motor skills, drawing, colouring and many mathematically-related tasks. Their oral expression was also better in the general areas of literacy and numeracy.

So, what are you waiting for, there really are so many reasons to be teaching your child to be safe in and around water!

What we offer at our Little Snapper Swim Schools: Free Newborn Program (two and three months old).

We at Little Snappers know that for newborns it is important that the water be clean and warm (33 degrees) and that the classes are taught from the heart, with the individual needs of parent and baby being identified. Our well educated, knowledgeable teachers are specially trained in infant aquatics and promote ‘aquatic readiness’ for all activities, and they ensure that our program caters to the age and ability of our participants.

Learn to Swim Classes (four to 12-months old).

These Little Snappers classes are great for your baby who is now becoming more alert, enjoying socialisation and being a lot more interactive. In conjunction with their land-based milestones, swimming further enhances their development as they explore the underwater world utilising breath control with a voluntary learnt breath holding response with conditioning. They also learn floatation, movement and safety during this educational journey that is also a wonderful, fun-loving bonding experience. Join us now and receive your first lesson free.

Swimming is a skill for life – persist with lessons!

It is so important that lessons continue until a child is at a level where they can perform strokes correctly and their skill retention is attained. This is generally around the age of seven or eight. We at Little Snappers are surprised by the number of parents who cease swimming lessons when their child can swim from point A to point B (our level 3) as generally, these are the children most at risk of drowning.

Drowning is the biggest killer of children in the zero to four age group in Australia, according to the latest information from Royal Life Saving. Such a preventable statistic starts with the parents. Swimming is the platform and stepping stone for many future aquatic activities of your child; it is a skill for life.

Start your child’s aquatic journey with our FREE Newborn Program. To find out more about this program or any of our other classes at either of our two locations, visit our website www.littlesnappers.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 21

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Determining gender STORY Kate Moloney These days, while it is possible to choose the sex of your child due to the advances in fertility treatment, Embryo Gender Selection is not available to everyone and does not come without significant cost and risk. In Australia, it is only undertaken for health reasons with couples who must undergo the whole process of In Vitro Fertilisation.

So, if you have an overwhelming yearning for a child of a specific gender, are there ways to tip the odds in your favour, to conceive a child of your preferrence? Does the fact that there are so many old wives’ tales (plus newer theories on this subject) lead to us questioning whether there may be some truth or validity to these, even though there is no scientific evidence to back them up?

If we’ve piqued your curiosity then here are two of the most commonly tried theories.

One theory is that the mother’s diet can affect gender.

According to this theory, eating alkaline foods, such as bananas, broccoli and potatoes, and avoiding milk, cheese and ice-cream will result in a boy, as the Y (boy) sperm is thought to flourish in an alkaline environment.

The X (girl) sperm, on the other hand, prefers an acidic environment created by eating a diet full of fish, meat, cheese and grains.

If this method does not appeal then perhaps you might prefer to consider the Shettles Method, developed by

Dr Landrum B. Shettles in the 1960s. This method is based on the theory that the gender can be determined by having intercourse at certain times in the ovulation cycle. The Y (boy) sperm, is fast but less resilient than the X (girl) sperm, which is a slower swimmer but hardier, meaning it survives longer. Therefore, if you want a boy, you should try and conceive during your ovulation day, as the fast-swimming Y (boy) sperm are likely to make it to the egg first. While if you want a girl, you should try and conceive only in the week (or few days) before ovulation as the weaker Y (boy) sperm will have died off, leaving the X (girl) sperm hanging around until the egg is ready.

When trying for our third child, while I really didn’t mind, as we already had two beautiful girls, I thought, “What harm is there in trying out the Shettles Method to conceive a boy?” I am not saying that this method was definitely the reason, but we did conceive a boy, and to this day, when he causes more mischief than our two girls combined, my husband takes much enjoyment from reminding me that I wanted ‘the boy’!

So, if you do have your heart set on one or the other then perhaps these theories may just assist you. But always remember, - the most important thing of all every baby, regardless of their gender, is a precious gift of life to be treasured.

Did you ever try one of these methods or one of the many other old wives’ tales to influence gender? We’d love to hear your story. Post your story on our Facebook page for the chance to win a prize.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 23

Bump, Bub and Beyond

BUMP, BUB AND BEYOND Featured products, reviews and prizes. Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!

‘Bliss’ Organic Cotton Maternity Cami Top

Cloud b - Sleep Sheep and Tranquil Turtle

RRP $48.00, www.bubsnbumps.com.au

RRP Sleep Sheep: $59.99 / Tranquil Turtle: $79.99 www.cloudb.com.au

Unique organic cotton maternity tops from Bubs n Bumps.

Proudly show the world you’re expecting with cute & original artwork of babies printed onto the tops ‘bump’.

Proudly Australian made for assurance of quality. These comfortable maternity tops are sure to become your maternity wardrobe staple.

Available in 3 styles and 5 cute designs to choose from including the best selling ‘Peek-a-Boo’ baby and ‘Two Peas in the Pod’ for mothers expecting twins.

Sleep Sheep is the original plush that offers soothing sounds to help calm and comfort children to sleep. Playing soft sounds of nature or the reassuring sound of a mother’s heartbeat, Sleep Sheep is the perfect companion for a calm and restful night for both baby and parents!

Cloud b’s first product to combine both sight and sound features, Tranquil Turtle will transform your child’s room into a peaceful oasis.

The light projector creates a serene underwater effect - complete with softly rippling waves - while the sound machine offers two calming choices: a gentle melody or whispering waves.

We are giving away the ‘Bliss’ Cami top - choose from size small, medium or large.

Maze Activewear Nursing Sports Bra RRP $59.00, www.mazeactivewear.com.au Super supportive, this stylish sports bra will have you covered from Pregnancy to breastfeeding. The mesh panels allow you to breathe easy while the clasp back offers an easy off after a tough training session. Quick drop-down cups allow for easy breastfeeding, with adjustable straps that cater for variations in bust size and the different levels of support needed. This maximum support sports bra will soon become your go to staple of your maternity wardrobe.

24 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Cloud b products are available to purchase from Babies R Us, Myer and David Jones.

Bump, Bub and Beyond

BABY’s stylish sanctuary

Constipation in Babies

STORY Kate Moloney

Is your baby crying, experiencing discomfort and irritability before a bowel movement or having fewer than three bowel movements a week? The cause of their discomfort may be constipation. This problem may be being caused by dehydration, formula milk or the introduction of solid foods.

One of the most enjoyable things of pending parenthood is the chance to create a stylish nursery.

When creating this sanctuary there are some things that you should consider.

When selecting furniture pieces, your number one priority should be safety. Ensure any items you are buying are Australian certified. For these items, especially if you are planning on more children, it can be a good idea to keep these in unisex colours, like wood and white.

If space allows, you may find that separating the room into three zones (one for sleeping, one for feeding and one for playing) works well.

Sleeping zone - Don’t be afraid to use playful bedding in bright colours to dress your neutral cot. Adding a soft nightlight that won’t disturb baby’s sleep when checking them during the night or when feeding is a great addition.

Feeding zone – Consider a feeding chair that is not only comfortable but also something that will later convert into a great toddler reading chair. An ottoman is also a recommended piece for comfortable feeding.

Play zone - Let your creativity run free. Colourful soft mats, plush animals, plus storage boxes and baskets for keeping all of baby’s items handy and sorted. Add colour to the walls with decals that can easily be changed for the next baby or as baby grows into the next stage.

STORY Kalisha Fitsch

If you think your little one may be experiencing constipation then here are a few things that you could try that may help with their discomfort: Encourage exercise: If your baby is a crawler, encourage more crawling! If they are not crawling yet, then move their legs in a circling motion (as if they are riding a bicycle) while they are lying on their back.

Massage the stomach: Gently massage your baby’s lower abdomen with three fingers to stimulate the bowels to encourage a bowel movement. You can do this massage several times per day until a bowel movement occurs.

Different foods: If your baby is eating solids, pureed apples, plums, blueberries and other foods high in fibre will help out. Incorporating more fruit juice and water into your baby’s diet will help as well, especially prune juice!

Switch formula: If your baby is on formula milk, sometimes this can be causing the issue. Talk to your doctor about switching to a different brand, as sometimes sensitivity to certain ingredients can cause constipation.

Constipation, while uncomfortable, is common. Try these good ‘ole home remedies to help relieve their pain, however, if you are concerned always consult your GP.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 25

WHAT’S ON MAR MAR FRIDAY 2 MARCH Exhibition - ‘Shine The Third Edition’ Runs until 29 March TYTO Regional Art Gallery www.tyto.com.au Check Website Entangle by MarieLouise Jones Runs until 8 April Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts umbrella.org.au 9.00am / Free / Youth+ Please Take a Seat by Lynn Scott-Cumming Runs until 8 April Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts umbrella.org.au 9.00am / Free / Youth+ Acknowledge by Anneke Silver Runs until 8 April Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts umbrella.org.au 9.00am / Free / Youth+ U3A Tour Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 1.30pm / $5 / U3A Membership SATURDAY 3 MARCH Nth Qld Babies and Kids Market Emmaus Hall Ryan catholic college Morindo Dve nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com 8.30am / $2 Adult / Famliy

2018 School Disco #1 Ignatius Park College Hall whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au 6.30pm / $15 / Youth+

Art-box Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Ages 0 - 5

Saints Charity Soiree 2018 The Mecure Inn tricia@ritzcohomes.com.au 1.00pm / $90 / Adult

WEDNESDAY 7 MARCH

Manga Drawing Workshop Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / $10 / Youth SUNDAY 4 MARCH Gold Coast SUNS versus Geelong Cats JLT Community Series Riverway Stadium www.townsville.qld.gov.au 3.35pm / $5 / Family March 4X4 Fun Day Millchester Motor Sport Recreation Facility 0418 290 387 Call for Information Multi Sport Sprint Series 2018 - Paluma Paluma Dam Campimg Grounds outerlimitsadventure.com.au Check Website TUESDAY 6 MARCH AFCM 2018 Program Launch and Recital by Kathryn Stott Townsville Civic Theatre - C2 www.afcm.com.au 5.30pm / $55 / Youth+

Ocean Film Festival World Tour 2018 Riverway Arts Centre oceanfilmfestivalaustralia.com.au 7.00pm / $32 Adult / Family

With 4TO FM’s Minty

FRIDAY 9 MARCH North Queensland Toyota Cowboys versus Cronulla Sharks 1300Smiles Stadium www.cowboys.com.au 6.50pm / Cost / Family A World View Exhibition Launch Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 6.00pm / Free / Family

Carlyle Gardens Townsville Women’s Expo Carlyle Gardens Townsville, Carlton Theatre p.edwards@bluecare.org.au 9.00am / Free / Women

SATURDAY 10 MARCH

THURSDAY 8 MARCH

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow Exhibition Workshop Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 1.00pm / Free / Youth

Townsville Cinema Group Screening Warrina Cineplex www.cinemagroup.org.au 7.15pm / $13 / Family Women on Water Girls Fun Night!

Townsville Sailing Club www.yachtingaustralia.com.au 5.00pm / $30 / Women Women’s Mountain Bike Retreat Bungalow Bay www.destinationadventure.com.au Check Website International Womens Day Breakfast The Ville iwdbtsv@gmail.com 6.00am / $50 / Youth+

Leaving Jackson- The Story of Johnny Cash and June Carter Burdekin Theatre www.burdekintheatre.com.au Check Website

SUNDAY 11 MARCH Welcoming Babies Ceremony Townsville Stadium www.townsville.qld.gov.au Check Website Early Years Expo Townsville Stadium www.townsville.qld.gov.au 9.00am / Free / Family WEDNESDAY 14 MARCH Kindy and Prep Open Morning The Cathedral School of St. Anne & St. James www.cathedral.qld.edu.au 9.00am / Free / Family

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 27

WHAT’S ON MAR MAR

With 4TO FM’s Chooky

WEDNESDAY 14 MARCH

SATURDAY 17 MARCH

TUESDAY 20 MARCH

SUNDAY 25 MARCH

World’s Greatest Shave 2018 Runs until 18 March Various Locations worldsgreatestshave.com Register at the Website

Learn Naturally Open Day Shop 2, 237 Riverside Blvd, Douglas www.learnnaturally.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family

Art-box

10.00am / Free / Ages 0 - 5

Multi Sport Sprint Series 2018 Arcadia Bay Hotel outerlimitsadventure.com.au Check Website

Dancing Queen Runs until 28 July Stage Door Theatre Restaurant stagedoortheatre.com.au 6.45pm / $89 / Adult

THURSDAY 22 MARCH

THURSDAY 29 MARCH

PakMag Easter Eggstravaganza

Emerald City Townsville Civic Theatre - C2 www.ticketshop.com.au 2.30pm / $17 / Family

Facebook.com/

North Queensland Toyota Cowboys versus Penrith Panthers 1300SMILES Stadium www.cowboys.com.au 6.50pm / Cost / Family

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow Exhibition Workshop Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 1.00pm / Free / Youth

Townsville Cinema Group Screening

7.15pm / $13 / All Ages

Easter Family Fun Days CastleTown www.castletown.com.au 3.30pm - 7.00pm / Family

SUNDAY 18 MARCH

FRIDAY 23 MARCH

SATURDAY 31 MARCH

Queen’s Baton Relay Runs until 19 March Various Locations www.townsville.qld.gov.au 2.00pm / Free / Family

Glimpses of a Seabird Flying Blind: Hilary Talbot

Easter Family Fun Days CastleTown www.castletown.com.au 11.00am - 2.00pm / Family

Morning Melodies Kevin Wright Riverway Arts Centre ticketshop@townsville.qld.gov.au 10.30am / $14 / Adult All About Android Tablets & Phones Upper Ross Community Centre www.townsville.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Free / Youth+ THURSDAY 15 MARCH Discover Sailing Women on Water Course Runs until 12 April The Strand www.townsvillesailing.com.au 4.30pm / $300 / Women FRIDAY 16 MARCH BÁB-BARRA: Women Printing Culture Runs until 22 April Perc Tucker Regional Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Free / Youth+

Little Day Out Rossiter Park, Aitkenvale www.lalunanq.com 3.00pm / Free / Family

Riverway Movie Night: The Croods Riverway Oval www.townsville.qld.gov.au 6.30pm / Free / Family

Family Fun Day Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

Bab-Barra: Women Painting Culture Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 6.00pm / Free / Family

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow Exhibition Workshop Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 1.00pm / Free / Youth

28 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871

Sk8Way Townsville PakMagTownsville 4.30pm / Free / Family

Warrina Cineplex www.cinemagroup.org.au

Pinnacles Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Free / Youth+ SATURDAY 24 MARCH What is Classical Feng Shui?

CityLibraries Aitkenvale www.townsville.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Free / Youth+ Glimpses of a Seabird Flying Blind Exhibition Launch Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 6.00pm / Free / Family

THURSDAY 29 MARCH

SAVE THE DATE: THURSDAY 5 APRIL Commonwealth Games Basketball in Townsville Runs until 5 April TECC www.tecc.net.au $15 Kids/ $30 Adults / Family SEE P. 33 FOR REGULAR MARKET DATES

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 29

Mini Mag

A MYSTERY PRIZE!

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In March 2018 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a mystery prize!

Competition closes 31/03/2018

Name Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

30 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Age

Mini Mag

A MYSTERY PRIZE!

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In March 2018 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a mystery prize!

Competition closes 31/03/2018

Name

Age

Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 31

Mini Mag

GiveawayS FOR BookwormS 1

5

2

3

4

6

1. What’s Weird on Earth - www.dk.com.au - RRP $29.99 - See how many lightning strikes hit parts of our planet, the wind patterns of the whole world, and even how the world map would look if global warming melted the ice caps! What’s Weird on Earth is an entirely new atlas adventure, with maps of UFO sightings, popular foods, every country resized according to population density, and their popularity as holiday destinations. 2. Chit Chat Box - www.tinyginats.com.au - RRP $29.95 This unique activity set encourages children to think big, be creative, kind and strengthen relationships with the grown ups in their lives while having loads of fun.

It’s suitable for boys and girls aged 4-8 years. 3. Lonely Planet Kids: Around the World in 50 Ways - www.lonelyplanet.com/kids - RRP $24.99 - Young explorers will discover a unique and fun way to discover the world – by using their favourite mode of transportation! From tuk-tuks and sleds, to steamboats and hot-air balloons, Around the World in 50 Ways lets readers travel the globe via road, rail, water or air. And once they’ve selected a route, they will learn amazing facts about their destination. But be warned – not every route will take them where they want to go! 4. Visting You - www.ekbooks.org - RRP $24.99 - In this gorgeous picture book, a young child and their mother set out to visit a loved one. Along the way, the child interacts with other commuters — a father who lives apart from his small daughter, a husband who has lost his wife, a granddaughter who is forgotten by her grandfather, and a mother who fears for her son’s recovery — and discovers that we all are bound by the common experience of love, that appearances can be deceiving, and that it’s our similarities, not our differences, that matter most. 5. The Wonderling by Mira Bartók - www.booktopia.com.au - RRP $24.99 - In this extraordinary debut novel with its deft nod to Dickensian heroes and rogues, Mira Bartók tells the story of Arthur, a shy, fox-like foundling with only one ear and a desperate desire to belong, as he seeks his destiny. 6. Outdoor Maker Lab - www.dk.com.au - RRP $29.99 An unmissable outdoor approach to science and STEM learning. Kids can extract DNA from strawberries to learn about genetic traits, make a model of tectonic plates to understand earthquakes, and make a wormery to learn about ‘useful waste’. These wonderful experiments help kids to understand our world and beyond. Outdoor Lab uses real-world examples and an irresistible mix of craft activities and experiments to get young scientists excited from the get-go.

WHAT’S ON REGULAR MARKETS Balgal Beach Markets Date: 1st Saturday of the month Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Fishermans Landing Balgal Beach Bluewater Twilight Markets Date: 2nd Saturday of the month Time: 4.00pm - 8.00pm Location: Bluewater Community Centre Label Traders Market Date: 3rd Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 12.00pm Location: Mundingburra State School

Seabreeze Markets Date: 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Bushland Beach Park

Horseshoe Bay Markets Date: Every 2nd and last Sunday of the month Time: 9.00am - 2.00pm Location: Horseshoe Bay Foreshore

Magnetic Island RSL Market Date: Every Friday (Excluding Good Friday) Time: 5.30pm - 8.00pm Location: Magnetic Island RSL

Carlyle Gardens Arts & Crafts Markets Date: 1st Saturday of the month (Mar - Dec) Time: 9.00am Location: Carlyle Gardens Retirement Resot, Beck Drive, Condon

Lucinda Markets Date: 2nd Sunday of the month (May to September) Time: 8.00am – 12.00pm Location: Borello Park

Strand Night Markets Date: 1st Friday of the month (Runs from May to Dec) Time: 5.00pm - 9.30pm Location: Strand Park

Castle Hill PCYC Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 7.00am to 11.00am Location: Castle Hill PCYC

Willows Rotary Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 7.30 - 11.30am Location: Willows Shop Centre Carpark

NQ Farmers Market Date: Every Saturday Time: 6.00am - 12.00pm Location: North Shore Town Centre Cotters Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 8.30am - 1.00pm Location: Flinders St & Townsville Bulletin Square.

Mountainview Plaza Market Date: Every Saturday (Excluding Jan) Time: 8.00am - 2.00pm.

Location: Mountainview Plaza Renegade Handmade Market Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Marian School

Upper Ross Community Markets Date: 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month Time: From 3.00pm Location: Apex Park, Riverway Drive, Rasmussen

Email your event or market to admin@grandpublishing.com.au to be included. Spaces are limited.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 33

Regular Events

REGULAR EVENTS TOWNSVILLE GALLERIES Art-Box - Free Art Activities for Kids Under 5 Days: First and third Tuesdays of the month Time: 10.00am Location: Pinnacles Gallery More Info: 4773 8871 Free Family Fun Day - Art Activities for the Family Days: Third Sunday of the month Time: 10.00am Location: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery More Info: 4727 9011 BELGIAN GARDENS STATE SCHOOL PLAYGROUP Days: Mondays Time: 9.00am - 11.00am Location: Belgian Gardens SS Hall More Info: 4717 1333 or rickandjules4@bigpond.com Cost: $2 per person FIRST FIVE FOREVER Parent Information Sessions Days: First Tuesday of the month Time: 9.30am, Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free

34 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Newborn and Family Drop-In Service Days: Tuesdays (9.00am to 2.00pm), Saturdays (9.00am to 12.00pm) Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free Messy Play (Bookings Required) Days: Wednesdays Time: 9.00am & 10.30am Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale RIVERWAY PARKRUN Days: Saturdays Time: From 6.45am Location: Meet at the front of Tony Ireland Stadium on the grassed area near the ticket box.

Riverway parkrun is a 5km course along Ross River which you can complete by running or walking (or both) and is for all ages. Children, prams and dogs are all welcome to join in the fun. Please note: Scooters and bikes are not allowed for safety and insurance reasons.

This course is wheelchair friendly.

Registration is free and available at www.parkrun.com. au/riverway.

MAINLY MUSIC For Babies to pre prep aged children. Fun, music, morning tea and free play Days: Thursdays (during school term) Time: From 9.30am Location: St Peter’s Anglican Church, West End Cost: $3.00 per child More Info: 0414 807 179

Location: Meet at Clubhouse 10 Sturgess St., Hermit Park More info: Sharon - 0412 341 768 TOY LIBRARY TOWNSVILLE (THE TOY SHED) Days: Second Thursday of month (excluding January) Time: 3.30pm - 5.30pm Days: Second Saturday (excluding January) Time: 9.00am – 12.00pm

MOPS - Mothers of PreSchoolers

Location: Fitzroy Street,

For mothers with children 0-6 years. Connect, relax and recharge.

Librarian: 0420 585 069 or

Days: Fridays – fortnightly during School terms Time: 9.30am - 11.30am Location: Mount Louisa House of Praise (425 Bayswater Rd) Cost: $9 per session More Info: 0421 658 535 (Juliana)

Heatley childsplaytownsville@gmail.com Secretary: 0400 815 279 or facebook Toy Library TOWNSVILLE TOY LIBRARY Days: Every Tuesday and Saturday

TOWNSVILLE LIFESTYLE HUB FREE FITNESS SESSIONS

Time: 9.30am - 11.00am

Fit Club Exercise

Railway Estate

Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 6.00pm Location: Meet at Clubhouse 10 Sturgess St., Hermit Park

Community Centre

Days: Saturday Time: 8.00am

Location: 23 First Street,

More Info: Check their Facebook page Townsville Toy Library for updates

School Holiday Guide

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE LAUNCH ZONE

Free sand art activities with no bookings required.

Bounce higher than you thought was possible at Launch Zone, a massive indoor trampoline experience filled with 155 interconnecting trampolines and over 1,000 square metres of padding!

Plus win a bike and helmet pack valued at $200

Bounce into foam pits, vault through the air and experience Launch Zone – Jump 2 It! P 1300 LAUNCH E enquiries@launchzone.com.au F Facebook/LaunchZone www.launchzone.com.au

CASTLETOWN Castletown is serving up some Easter fun.

Fairy Floss and Face Painting for the kids with special visits from the Easter Bunny.

Easter Family Fun Days Thursday, 29 March From: 3.00pm to 7.00pm Saturday, 31 March From: 11.00am to 2.00pm Bubbles the Baby Elephant Tuesday, 3 April to Saturday, 7 April Daily: 11.00am and 1.00pm At: Target Forecourt Admission is free.

Bookings required.

Visit CastleTown Facebook Page for more event details.

P 4772 1699 E enquiries@castletown.com.au F Facebook/CastletownTownsville www.castletown.com.au

Please visit Fairfield Central’s Facebook page or website for more information.

P 4778 4249 E fairfieldcmanagement@lancinigroup.com.au F Facebook/FairfieldCentral www.fairfieldcentral.com.au

INFLATABLE KINGDOM The perfect venue to have a great time for all ages. Inflatable Kingdom is a high-energy, action-packed environment with inflatables of all shapes and sizes.

Opening Hours: Monday and Friday - 9.00am to 4.00pm Wednesday - 1.00pm to 4.00pm Saturday - 1.00pm to 5.00pm Sunday - 9.00am to midday To stay up to date with all that’s happening, check out their Facebook page or visit them at 72-88 Hervey Range Road, Condon inside Sk8way Townsville.

P 4755 4422 E admin@inflatablekingdomtownsville.com.au F Facebook/inflatablekingdomtownsville www.inflatablekingdom.com.au

CHOI KWANG-DO MARTIAL ART CENTRE Bring A Buddy - Share the Art Day

FAIRFIELD CENTRAL

Wednesday, 4 and Wednesday, 11 April Time: 6.00am for Mixed Ages Time: 4.00pm and 4.45pm for Kids Time: 6.00pm for Families (Kids Ages 3 to Adult) Time: 7.00pm for Adults Only

Free Holiday Fun - Get crafty these school holidays:

All classes will be open to the public.

Sand Art Creations

P 4773 9794 E info@choikwang-do.com.au F Facebook/CKDMAC www.ckdmac.com.au

Tuesday, 10 to Friday, 13 April From: 10.00am to 1.00pm At: Opposite Kitty’s Nail Salon

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 37

School Holiday Guide

REEF HQ AQUARIUM Reef by Night

P 4725 7548 E admin@learnnaturally.com.au www.learnnaturally.com.au

Friday, 13 April Times: 6.00pm to 9.00pm Cost: $10.00 or free with RHQ membership

CODE CORNER

Mermaids and The Clean-up Crew Show

Use your child’s interests to prepare them for the jobs

Saturday, 31st March to Monday, 2nd April Time: 11.00am to 11.30am Cost: General admission ticket or free with RHQ membership

of the future!

Reef Games School Holiday Program

encourage them to learn to code then by doing it with

Tuesday, 3rd April to Sunday, 15th April Time: 10.00am to 12.00pm Cost: General admission ticket or free with RHQ membership

their favourite game. The Minecraft Modding course will

P 4750 0800 E rhqsalesandmarketing@gbrmpa.gov.au www.reefHQ.com.au

At: Thuringowa Library

FESTIVAL 2018

Check the website for more details.

To coincide with Townsville hosting Commonwealth Games Basketball, a 12 day arts and cultural spectacular is being held from 4 to 15 April, so make sure you book your tickets now to enjoy the school holidays like never before!

P 0407 079 569

Minecraft Coding for Kids If your child loves Minecraft then what better way to

teach participants to create code that will enable them to modify Minecraft!

Ages: Recommended for kids 3 to 8 years.

Bookings required.

E contactus@codecorner.com.au F Facebook/codecornernq www.codecorner.com.au

From live music and theatre to comedy and dance, Festival 2018 provides nearly two weeks of amazing entertainment. There are a total of 162 events comprising 74 local, 61 national and 28 international acts.

PERC TUCKER REGIONAL GALLERY

Visit www.townsville.qld.gov.au for more information.

with the kids during the school holidays your local art

TYTO Head out to the TYTO Wetlands for some outdoor family fun this school holidays. In this 110 hectare wetland area, you’ll find over 240 species of bird as well as Agile Wallabies.

You can make a day or a weekend of it as you experience the walking tracks, bird hides and viewing platforms.

P 4776 4792 www.tyto.com.au

So, if you are looking for something fun and free to do gallery is the place to be!

See their website for more information.

P 4727 9011 E ptrg@townsville.qld.gov.au www.townsville.qld.gov.au

GC2018 BASKETBALL Get excited this School Holiday Guide and see

LEARN NATURALLY Open Day Saturday, 17 March Time: 10.00am Entertainment for the kids, arts and crafts activities plus promotions and giveaways.

38 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

some world class basketball as the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games comes to Townsville in the form of the Basketball Preliminary games. Taking place from 5 to 10 April, there’s plenty of opportunity to catch a game so make sure you book your tickets before they sell out! www.gc2018.com.au/tickets

snapped

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1. Jared and Baby Lara Smart 2. Nadia Bell with Baby Mason Edward Kurt Douglas 3. Mark Tirendi with Baby Lachy James Tirendi 4. Paisley Bolton 5. Mac Morgan McGrady 6. Adrian Grace with Baby Ollie George Grace

40 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

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Mater Snapped

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Photography thanks to: Maria O‘Brien (Josephine Carter Photography) www.josephinecarterphotography.com

7. David Cheshire with Baby Remy Cheshire 8. Ellie Jackson 9. Isaac Anthony Land 10. Leila Daniela Makowski 11. Daniel Brown with Baby Carter Brown 12. Bryce & Rachel Knight with Baby Sophie Rose Knight 13. Nicole Amos with baby Thomas Croft Amos

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 41

Challenges

Developmental Disabilities in Children STORY Rose Foster As parents, navigating the minefield of bringing up children can be a challenge. The trail and error nature of parenting, and the fact that every child develops at different rates means that knowing whether our children are on the right track can feel like a guessing game. This is particularly true when it comes to identifying problems.

sure you don’t panic if your little one is slightly behind expected milestones, these are only a guide. It’s when significant delays occur, or delays across multiple aspects of your child’s development that further investigation should be done.

What causes developmental disabilities?

Developmental disabilities in range from autism and behavioural disorders to cerebral palsy and Down syndrome, so spotting signs of these disabilities can be easy or complicated. Certain issues can be identified at birth (and sometimes even before), but some problems don’t become apparent until certain milestones are not being met and we realise that a child behind in their development.

For many developmental disabilities, the cause is unclear and it is often a number of factors which contribute to the problem. The main risk factors include problems at birth (including prematurity, low birth weight or oxygen deprivation), medical conditions (including ear infections, illnesses and injuries), and environmental factors (including trauma, a mother drinking or taking drugs prior to birth or poor living conditions).

So, how do we identify developmental disabilities?

What should you be looking for?

Well, unfortunately for many of these disabilities, there is no cut and dry test, so observation is the key to identification in the early stages. Knowing when a child should be reaching certain milestones is a starting point. It will help you identify whether your child is delayed in their development. It is important to make

There are five main areas in which a developmental disability may occur: cognitive skills, social and emotional skills, speech and language skills, fine and gross motor skills, and activities in daily living. If a child exhibits issues with two or more of these areas, it is considered to be a global developmental delay.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 43

Challenges

Cognitive delays affects a child’s ability to learn, think and problem solve. Early ways to identify this is to ask yourself if your baby exhibits curiosity or if your toddler is learning new words, colours or counting. If the answer is no to these things, it may be a sign of developmental delay.

Social and emotional delays present themselves in a child’s ability to relate and interact with others. Babies should smile at people and make noises in an attempt to communicate and toddlers should be able to express their feelings and make friends. A lack of these signs could be cause for concern.

Speech and language delays may seem obviously identifiable but there are some things to consider that you may not have been aware of; it is not always the case that a child can’t pronounce words. With babies, the absence of babbling or cooing could help identify issues but in toddlers, their ability to understand instructions, tell stories that keep on track or use words in the correct context could also be telling signs. This type of delay is quite common which is perhaps the reason that Speech and Language Pathologists are trained specially to deal with this, whilst the other four issues are generally dealt with by paediatricians or OTs. Fine and gross motor delays can be identified in babies if they are not able to hold objects (fine motor) or if they don’t begin to sit up, roll or walk (gross motor). As children get older, not being able to hold tools or draw (fine motor) or having difficulties jumping or climbing may indicate a developmental delay.

Daily living problems simply mean that day to day task are not handled by the child. In babies, we as parents naturally do this for them, but if children don’t begin to eat or dress themselves, herein lies a potential issue.

How does a child receive a diagnosis?

Generally, your first step is to visit your GP who will give you advise you of the next steps based on his

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initial assessment of your child. Your GP will generally refer you to a specialist or for further testing and investigation based on this assessment.

If you think your child has a speech or language delay, you can opt to visit a Speech and Language Pathologist without a referral from your doctor.

Remember, early intervention is best and there’s no harm in going to the doctor if you think something’s not quite right. As the age old saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and it’s true when it comes to helping your child with their development.

What treatment is available?

Depending on your child’s diagnosis, there are a number of different treatment options. Most of these include the help of a specialised professional. Occupational therapists are amongst the most common options for children with developmental disabilities, along with physiotherapist, speech and language pathologist and behavioural therapists.

Living with Developmental Delay Living with any kind of disability comes with challenges, but with a positive outlook and the right tools and professionals at your disposal, living a happy and fulfilled life is absolutely possible. Understanding that life won’t be bad, it will just be different is a great way to look at life when raising a child with a developmental delay.

With early intervention and treatment, many children with developmental disibilities grow up to become independent adults. For those with more serious developmental disabilities, particularly those who have trouble with completing day to day tasks or have low cognitive function, there are still options to help them live the best life they can. This includes community living, providing them with the equipment that they need and equipping their families with the skills and tools to help.

Exploring Play

GROSS MOTOR PLAY STORY Nicole Brown, Occupational Therapist, Townsville Occupational Therapy Service.

Gross motor play is important for your child as gross motor skills help us to perform everyday activities such as standing, walking, running and sitting at a table. Gross motor skills also include ball skills (throwing, catching and kicking).

Gross motor play helps our little ones to develop strength and coordination, body awareness and motor planning (how to move effectively). Games that can help improve gross motor skills are: •• Trampoline play and hopscotch.

•• Riding a bike or scooter.

•• Throwing and catching; start with large balls or balloons and gradually get smaller.

•• Balancing on one leg; standing with one foot, start with holding onto something and gradually make it harder. Try balancing on one leg whilst brushing teeth or learning sight words!

•• Completing obstacle courses.

•• Children’s playground where they are climbing, swinging and sliding.

•• Swimming.

•• General sports activities including soccer, tee ball, cricket, golf and basketball.

These are also great activities for wearing active little bodies out by the end of the day! And remember, in play, follow your child’s lead.

TOYS FOR GROSS MOTOR PLAY 3

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1. Original Lock Activity Box by Mamagenius - RRP $99.00 - www.playmackay.com.au 2. Balance Bike Blue Chalkboard by Kinderfeets RRP $150.00 - www.playmackay.com.au 3. Play Ball with Beads - RRP $21.90 - www.ellej.com.au 4. Stacking Jigsaw Elephant & Baby RRP $13.95 - www.ellej.com.au 5. Scooter Board - RRP $40.00 - www.theplayprojects.com 6. Hape Sack Racers - RRP $14.90 www.theplayprojects.com

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dedicated upper limb OT and Physio clinic now open in Northshore

HELPING HANDS is the North’s largest dedicated hand and upper limb therapy service, and we recently expanded our operations in Townsville with a team of Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists now operating out of North Shore.

This new North Shore clinic complements our longrunning service on Fulham Road as well as our clinics in Ingham and Ayr, improving access and convenience to dedicated hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder treatment and recovery for families across North Queensland.

Our Helping Hands founder, Cassandra Chiesa said, “Investment into professional staff development and accreditation plays a key role in our continued growth.

Helping Hands have a long-standing reputation as the go-to service for all upper limb injuries and conditions across the region because that is where we focus our service”, she explained. “We have always invested in ongoing training for our staff in this area, which is why we are recognised as the training ground for hand therapists in the North.”

We have been operating for over ten years in the Townsville and North Queensland region and were the first dedicated hand therapy and upper limb clinic in Townsville. We take care of everyone from elite national

Advertorial

athletes to people with complex work injuries and children with common breaks and fractures.

Our philosophy with each one of those people is always to ensure they get the right treatment from the start. “It is the best way to guarantee the quickest recovery from injury and whether it is a representative NRL player or a child with a fracture we love seeing people experience those results”, Cassandra said.

Our team at Helping Hands is made up of Cassandra and her 11 full-time staff who manage over 10, 000 appointments each year, plus we recently grew our number of nationally accredited hand therapists on staff from two to four.

We pride ourselves on the highest standard of professional care provided by our therapists. We take the time to invest in them so that they can take the time to invest in you, our patients, with their advanced skills and personalised approach to getting to know people’s individual needs.

We are open longer for your convenience and we also provide a mobile service so we can see people in the comfort of their own homes. For more information about our opening hours and the contact details of our different clinics visit our website www.helpinghandsclinic.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 49

Healthy Recipes

HEALTHY RECIPES

Rainbow Pie with Hazelnut Crust Serves 1-2 Recipe by Georgia McDermott @georgeats

Teff and Almond Breakfast Crumble Serves 4 Recipe by Sally O’Neil @thefitfoodieblog

Crust 1 ½ cups of hazelnut meal ½ cup almond meal ¾ cup tapioca flour 1 small egg 100g butter

Ingredients 1 ½ cups flaked almonds 1 cup almond meal ½ cup teff 2 tsp cinnamon ¼ cup rice malt syrup or honey (plus extra to serve) 2 tbsp melted coconut oil 4 cups mixed berries 1 cup of your choice of yoghurt.

Filling 5 eggs 2 tbs milk 3 tbs pesto 1 cup roasted pumpkin 100g feta 50g sundried tomatoes 30g spinach 2 large swiss chard leaves, chopped 1 red onion diced chilli flakes, to taste salt and pepper to taste

Method Preheat oven to 160ºC In a bowl add the almond meal, teff and flaked almonds along with the cinnamon and mix well. Add rice malt syrup or honey and coconut oil then stir to combine.

Method Preheat oven to 180ºC. Mix together the ingredients for the pastry until they have congealed enough that you can roll it into a ball. Mould into a 25cm diameter pie tin and cook in the oven for 10 minutes.

While the crust is cooking, cook onions and chilli in a good glug of olive oil until onion is translucent. Layer pumpkin, onion and chilli in the crust. Beat the eggs, milk and pesto together with some salt and pepper and fold through the feta, spinach and chard. Pour into the pie crust.

Pop the pie back into the oven for 15- 20 minutes, or until egg mixture has cooked completely.

Add the crumble dough to a baking sheet and press down into a large biscuit.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown then allow to cool.

Meanwhile, divide the berries into 4 bowls and spoon over yoghurt.

Using your hands, roughly break up the biscuit into large chunks and add to the bowls.

Drizzle over additional honey or rice malt syrup and serve immediately.

Recipes bought to you by The Source Bulk Foods. You can pick up quality, fresh ingredients for these recipes from The Source Bulk Foods. Check them out on Facebook /TheSourceBulkFoodsNorthWard

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 51

Advertorial

GET READY TOWNSVILLE! TOWNSVILLE Between the 4th and the 15th of April, Queensland will welcome over 1 million ticketed spectators for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018), and Townsville is set to be part of the excitement and action. What a wonderful event for our state!

GC2018 is the largest sporting event Australia will see this decade. While the Gold Coast will host most events, sporting competition and Festival, activities and sporting events will also be held in Brisbane, Cairns and Townsville.

The Commonwealth Games is more than an 11-day sporting spectacular; it will showcase Townsville and Queensland to the world. With 1.1 million visitors expected in the lead-up to, during and after the Games and with a global audience of 1.5 billion worldwide, we will see more visitors to our region, growing tourism and growing tourism jobs.

Sunday 18th and Monday 19th March. It will be a great time to get out and about in our beautiful city to witness our deserving Townsville locals as they carry the Queen’s Baton.

The Commonwealth Games will leave Townsville with a lasting legacy with a new outdoor gym, heritage trails, and a Townsville sign for tourists as well as improvements to pedestrian walkways.

Additionally, the Palaszczuk Government in partnership with TAFE Queensland is working to support Indigenous tourism businesses to leverage opportunities from GC2018, and the Creating Tracks program was delivered in Townsville to support these businesses with their targeted development needs.

Townsville will play a key role in the GC2018 as one of the four event cities. The Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre will be home to men’s and women’s basketball heats, including the Australian Women’s team, from the 5th to 10th April.

Three iconic Townsville sites - Queens Gardens, Strand Park and Jezzine Barracks, will play host to Festival 2018, an arts and cultural extravaganza, which celebrates the spirit of the Commonwealth and showcases our local talent. So, I encourage you all to get out and about during the Commonwealth Games and enjoy the many events our beautiful city has to offer.

But this month, before the games commence, the Queen’s Baton Relay will travel through Townsville on

Lastly, I want to wish the North Queensland Cowboys all the best for their first home game on March 9th.

www.pakmag.com.au | March 2018 53

Celebrate

PARTY VIBES WITH THE TIDES We know that keeping a party of little ‘sea goers’ riding high on waves of happiness for a couple of hours can be a challenge.

But we assure you, you won’t be asked to walk the plank at your child’s party with these fantastic ocean-themed ideas.

You’ll ‘sea’ what we mean!

Feeding frenzy Snacks are a must to keep the hungry sharks at bay. Set up a table that is full of adorable munchies. Serve up colourful ‘saltwater’ popcorn - popcorn drizzled with blue candy-melts - or set their imaginations a sail with a pirate ship shaped watermelon!

This is a great trick to get some healthy snacks into their stomachs.

Thirsty? Serve up some refreshing drinks for your guests to keep

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them refuelled for more ocean exploring.

Decorate bottles, cups or glasses with strings and starfish paper-shapes to match the theme of the party.

Finding lost treasure Draw a mud map of your home and let the curious explorers search the house and yard for ‘lost treasure’ party favours.

This interactive way of gift-giving is an exciting experience and will be a memory not quickly forgotten by your guests. Who knows what they will find! You could hide away pirate or mermaid dolls, whalethemed educational games or other ocean-themed bits.

Sweet ocean treats

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The most anticipated event at any party is always the cake! Get creative with fondant, icing and edible glitter to create an impressive underwaterthemed tiered cake or adorable mermaid tail cupcakes for your guests to enjoy.

Or, let Cakes Annietime take the helm.

They can create perfectly scrumptious custom cakes that can even incorporate a photo frame to truly personalise your child’s cake.

With plenty of nibbles, games, and adventure fun, we are sure your party will go swimmingly and is ‘shore’ to be a great success.

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1. Mermaid Doll in Grey - RRP $ 49.95 - www.ellej.com.au 2. www.catchmyparty.com 3. Custom Birthday Cake. The possibilities are endless with Cakes Annietime - www.cakesannietime.com.au 4. www.karaspartyideas.com 5. Mobi Maths Game - RRP $29.99 www.playmackay.com.au 6. Big Waves Cushion by Bonnie & Neil - RRP $174.35 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 7. www.docediafestas.com.br 8. www.thecakemamas.com 9. www.leaf.tv 10. Hand Squeaker Pirate - RRP $17.95 - www.ellej.com.au 11. Hattie Navy Spot Dress - RRP $44.95 - www.ellej.com.au

Home

HOW YOUR HOME CAN INSPIRE A HEALTHY LIFE With the Block’s Caro and Kingi

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We all wish to live a healthier lifestyle, not only for ourselves, but also for the environment. But with the pace of life, it can be difficult to find the time and motivation to transform this wish into a reality. However, it can be easier than you might think.

There are some simple things that you can do and implement in your home and life, and these small changes that you make can have large positive effects on not just your health but also the worlds.

Reusable over single use: Reduce your carbon footprint by reducing the plastic waste in your home. Store your ingredients in glass jars and containers, take fabric reusable shopping bags with you when shopping and for school lunches try sectioned lunchboxes (or bento boxes). Plus, on a home dĂŠcor front, ingredients stored in jars can make for a wonderfully rustic feel!

Natural snacks: Packaged snacks are often highly processed and create single-use plastic waste. Invest in a beautiful fruit bowl or basket so you can incorporate natural snacks such as bananas, oranges, and apples into your life. Not only are fruits very good for you (obviously!), they can brighten up your kitchen and the waste they leave behind is easy to turn into compost to help your garden thrive.

Plants, plants, plants: Big and small, plants work wonders.

Some are known to be particularly effective at filtering the air in your home, thus creating a healthier living space.

Recommended plants for this include ferns, lilies, palms, and ivy. These will have your home looking good and smelling great too.

Chlorine-free play: Have you considered a chlorine-free swimming pool? A pool that is fully enriched with oxygen, has no odours, no taste, that is soft and gentle to your skin and reduces water waste with no shower needed after swimming! Check out your local pool products supplier to see how you can implement this into your home.

Watch your life transform with these little changes to your home and lifestyle that will have you feeling not only healthier but also happier because you are helping to make a difference.

1. Photography by Crate and Barre 2. Photography by Sarah Sherman Samuel via Mydomaine 3. Lightly Planter Grey - RRP $102.30 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 4. Yumbox Tapas 4 Compartment in Amalfi Pink - RRP $45.95 - www.ellej.com.au 5. Kinderboards by Kinderfeet - RRP $159.00 - www.playmackay.com.au 6. Design Twins Pinstripe Pot, Small - RRP $170.50 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 7. Design Twins Rim Pot White & Gold Large - RRP $302.50 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 8. Gingersnap Cedarwick Candle by Sohum - RRP $32.00 www.prettylittlesomething.com.au 9. Moss Rim Cotton Rope Basket RRP $19.95 - www.ellej.com.au

DADDY DIARY Hot cross buns!

Hot cross buns!

One a penny, two a penny, Hot cross buns!

If you have no daughters, Give them to your sons.

One a penny, two a penny, Hot cross buns!

Extra points to those singing these popular lyrics with the melody in mind. Good luck getting that out of your head anytime soon.

Like most of the nursery rhymes we teach our kids today, the whole ‘Hot Cross Buns’ thing is old, really old. The nursery rhyme actually dates back to 1733 (thanks Google) and was originally muttered on the cold streets of London by bakers trying to sell their spiced fruit rolls to hungry passers-by. The whole thing is very Oliver Twist sounding. However, I do believe Londoners in the 1700s had a little more restraint than our major retailers and didn’t sell them as early as Boxing Day. Either way, the whole Hot Cross Buns nursery rhyme is a memorable ditty that daycare centres all across Townsville will be trotting out at this time of the year.

But now to the product itself, and what a product it is. To me, there’s no better morning tea than a slightly toasted hot crossed bun with lashings of melted butter.

It’s a thing of beauty. And don’t give me any of this fruitless or chocolate nonsense; it’s traditional all the way for this guy. But sadly, in my house, I am alone in my love for the world’s second favourite Easter snack. Of course, the chocolate eggs come in at number 1.

But the truth is, I was a little shocked to learn of, my wife, Michelle, and daughter, Matilda’s, absolute disdain for my much-loved spiced bun.

Michelle, I can at least understand as being in her early 30s (or very early 30s as she told me to write), she’s been around the block enough to make an informed decision. It is my nearly 4-year-old daughter Matilda that is the real disappointment because of her lack of willingness to even try the hot cross bun. I swear, when a hot cross bun is placed in front of her you’d think her lips were glued together. Come hell or high water, a hot cross bun will never enter that kid’s tummy.

But you know what? At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter what sugar-laden treat you like to tuck into at Easter time. Like Christmas, the thing that’s actually really important is family, and for most of us, the extra time we get to spend with them at this magical time of the year. And if you are the only hot cross bun lover in your household, look on the bright side; they freeze beautifully and re-heat a treat. Now, to go and pick up another sneaky six pack at my local...

Cliffo Hit 103.1 Townsville

Welcome to Dadsville by Pete Graham - RRP $14.99, newhollandpublishers.com A collection of Pete Graham’s favourite Dad jokes. A nice, healthy list of jokes to add to your repertoire for when it’s time to embarrass your children, impress your workmates or just make yourself chuckle.

Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!

58 March 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au