PakMag Townsville - Nov 2017 Issue 84

ISSUE: Nov 2017

84

TOWNSVILLE

WIN A LULLA DOLL OVERCOMING PERFECTIONISM CHALLENGES WITH CHILDREN: WE CAN ALL HELP $1000’s WORTH OF PRIZES INSIDE

HOME: SPRING CLEANING END OF YEAR CELEBRATIONS

FREE www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 1

CONTENTS 04 Entertainment: Check It Out 07 The Thing Is...

With Bree James 08 Feature: Overcoming Perfectionism 11

Education: Why Our Children Need to be Reading and Writing, On and Off Devices

15 Healthy Recipes 17 Health 19 Babywearing Benefits 20 Bump, Bub and Beyond 23 What’s On Guide 25 Mini Mag

Well hello and welcome to our 2nd last edition of the year, and PakMag Townsville’s 7th birthday edition!

This month we are kicking off PakMag’s Summer Of Giveaways with thousands of dollars worth of prizes to give away between now and Australia Day. We also have a preview screening of “Wonder” so if you are lucky enough to win tickets, bring tissues for you and the kids, it looks like an amazing film. If you haven’t “Liked” and “Followed” our Facebook page or signed up for our newsletter on our website- do it now to stay in touch with us and for more opportunities to win!

We also cover perfectionism and some great educational topics, and since it’s PakMag Townsville’s 7th birthday, we have put together the best of what Townsville has to offer for your party planning needs!

32 Celebrate: End of Year

I hope to see you at our Christmas event at CastleTown on the 25th of Nov for dancing, games, carols and of course Santa and lots of prizes!

35 Townsville Party Guide

Have a great month, and don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag

36 Business 37 Coralee O’Rourke 39 Challenges: We Can All Help 43 Adult Education: Invest a

Little in You

Bree James Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief

44 Huge Giveaway for Summer

On the cover Josephine Carter of Josephine Carter Photography, and her son Emil Cover Photography Stephen Lane Cover products Lulla Doll available at www.sleeptightbabies.com.au 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

46 Mater Snapped 48 Home with Caro & Kingi:

Spring Cleaning 50 Daddy Diary

Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James Operations Manager Rose Foster Graphic Designer Clare Winter

Marketing to Families Experts Lisa Gillman Steph Bartram Janelle May Sub-Editor Kate Moloney

Supply & Distribution Manager Gleisy Meireles Media Intern Monique Saggers Social Media Intern Kiki Fitch

Accounts Trent Stievano

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 | November 2017 3

Entertainment

CHECK IT OUT Pakmag Christmas Show When: Saturday, 25 November 2017, 11.00am to 12.00pm Where: CastleTown - Target Forecourt More Info: www.castletown.com.au Join Santa and the PakMag team for an hour of family fun as we get in the festive spirit. It’s all about family entertainment, and as usual, we have a whole heap of prizes, games and dancing. Make sure you come in your best festive outfit! Entertainment, Prizes and a Visit from Santa!

North QLD Babies and Kids Market When: Saturday, 18 November 2017, 8.30am to 12.30pm Where: Emmaus Hall – Ryan Catholic College More Info: www.nthqldbabiesandkids market.com Good quality pre-loved, new and handmade items plus information and promotional stalls.

Hop along and join them for an exciting morning shopping for bargains and beautifully handmade items.

Adult $2.00 | Children are Free

SAVE THE DATE

PakMag Movie Preview When: 26 November 2017 More Info: facebook.com/PakMagTownsville We want you to come to the movies with us. Join PakMag at our Exclusive Preview Screening of Wonder, starring Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson. To be in the draw to win your ticket take a photo of you reading PakMag and post it to our Pakmag Townsville Facebook page, or enter on our website. Plus, keep an eye on our Facebook page for chances to win.

NQ Christmas Festival – Stable on the Strand When: Monday 18 to Friday 22 December 2017, 5.30pm to 9.30pm Where: Strand Park Townsville More Info: www.stableonthestrand.com Experience the Christmas story of the birth of Jesus.

Enjoy free entertainment for all ages and interactive activities for children.

4 November 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

SAVE THE DATE Christmas Day Lunch in the Grand Ballroom of The Ville Resort-Casino When: Monday, 25 December 2017, 12.00pm to 3.00pm Where: The Ville Resort – Casino More Info: www.the-ville.com.au Take the hassle out of your Christmas day lunch this year and spend it at The Ville Resort – Casino in their Grand Ballroom.

Experience the delicious Christmas buffet on offer, including a three-hour beverage package for the adults and for the kids there is children’s entertainment and a visit from Santa!

Treat yourself and relax this Christmas at The Ville Resort - Casino.

Adults $170 / Teenagers (13-17) $70 / Children (4-12) $40 / Children 0-3 FREE

Where you can see Santa this Christmas CastleTown Santa arrival: Saturday 4 November, 11:00am Santa Photos: Saturday 4 November, daily til Christmas Eve Head down to CastleTown this November to meet Santa and his elves. Don’t forget to get a photo and spread the Christmas cheer this festive season.

Stockland Santa will be in centre this festive season. Please visit www. stockland.com.au for details of upcoming Santa Photos.

Fairfield Central You can see Santa and have Please visit www.fairfieldcentral.com.au for details of upcoming Santa Photos.

The Thing Is

The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James

I sometimes wonder if we have lost the ability to have a good laugh. One of my most favorite things to do is to make people laugh, but there have certainly been times in my life where there isn’t much laughter going on in my world.

The thing is, life can get pretty serious and we get on the hamster wheel of parenting, working, living and we forget to have fun along the way. Having kids has certainly taught me to have more fun, but having kids has also made me feel as repetitive and annoying as a Kylie Minogue song on repeat.

“Don’t throw your clothes on the floor next to the clothes basket. Stop picking your nose. Don’t pee in the backyard. Stop hitting each other. Close the fridge. Can I just go to the toilet in peace? Stop running. Don’t fart at the dinner table! If you hurry up and have your shower, yes, we can watch guinea pig videos on YouTube. Yes, girls have a vagina and boys have a penis.”

Sigh. Insert sad country song, start feeling sorry for myself wondering how I can go from high-level discussions as a business owner and semi-intelligent woman to talking about why you should stop sniffing your brother’s butt. WTH? You will get ‘pink eye’ is my usual finish to that sentence.

So the other day, I tried something new.

I started behaving and modelling my kid’s behavior to my kids. I threw my clothes on the floor. I picked my nose in front of them, I followed them into the toilet to ask them to get me something, I ran through the shops, I farted at the dinner table, and I peed in the backyard.

Ok, maybe some of that is an exaggeration, but you

get my point. I did everything I could to show them how they behave and then spoke to them about how they felt when I behaved that way.

It was a lot of fun for me finding my inner child, and there were a lot of laughs, and my kids’ faces were, ‘OMG! I can’t believe mum just did that’. But hey, they learnt, and it made me teach them in a way that was way more fun than I had done in the past. You see, kids don’t really learn well through logic. They learn much better through emotion, whether that be a bad emotion or a good emotion, according to researchers we learn and retain things 90 per cent better when there is emotion behind logic. For example, if a child drops a bowl of cereal on the floor, they don’t really get upset.

Why? Because they aren’t emotionally attached to the cereal - they get it every day, and they will probably drop it again tomorrow no matter how much you tell them to be careful. However, if they drop a bowl of icecream that is a rare treat, they will lose their $&%T, even if logically you still have a full tub of ice cream on the bench to refill the bowl. Why? Because emotionally, they were so excited and happy to have that bowl in their hands. Will they drop the bowl of ice-cream again next time? I highly doubt it. It will be held onto like it’s glued to their little hands because they learnt the hard way.

So my dears, try and make your parenting fun by telling your kids stories and by teaching them lessons in a fun way that engages their emotions, and makes them feel and think at the same time. Let’s get that damn Kylie Minogue song off air for good.

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 7

Feature

Overcoming Perfectionism STORY Meg O’Donnell (B.Ed)

Self-help author, Anne Wilson Schaef states that “Perfectionism is self-abuse of the highest order”, and she isn’t too far from the truth. Perfectionism and motherhood, are two things that shouldn’t really go together, but unfortunately, they often do.

Whether it is living up to the memory of our own mothers or competing with other ‘yummy mummies’ in the school carpark, sometimes it seems everywhere we go, people are judging our every decision. Is the reality though that the person judging us the most ourselves?

From the moment your baby is placed in your arms, you solemnly swear that you are going to do everything possible to ensure they get the best version of you as a mother. And sometimes we get so caught up in trying to make sure that everything is going smoothly, we forget to enjoy the journey.

Perfectionism is defined as a person striving for flawlessness and is accompanied by critical selfevaluations and concerns regarding other’s evaluations.

While it can be hard not to analyse what others think of us as parents (especially when it seems every Tom, Dick and Harry have an opinion), it is important to try our best to block out those thoughts. When we focus so much on how we believe things ‘should’ be, we are also telling our children how we believe things ‘shouldn’t’ be, and that can lead to anxiety and questioning of their own self-worth.

8 November 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

“Mummy is always saying she is too fat. Maybe I am too fat as well.”

As a parent, it is so important to promote self-worth to your children. It all starts with you. Children learn so much from what they see and hear from their parents, and if they see and hear a confident parent who isn’t ashamed of their body or their brains, then they feel more comfortable acknowledging the positives about themselves as well. Something I suggest parents try is to look at their children and find everything about them that they inherited from you, whether it be their laugh, their eyes, their hair or their behaviour. Find every bit of you inside them, and remember just how much you love them. Surely if you can love them for all their traits, you can love yourself for those same reasons. Learning self-love (or at the very least self-acceptance) can be one of the most challenging things to learn, but it is undoubtedly worth it when you see your own children develop and nourish that same confidence.

Aside from the perfectionism over ourselves, we also tend to try to reach that unobtainable level of perfection with everything else. Is our house spotless? Do we not only

Feature

have our dinners ready every night on time, but are they also full of healthy choices? Are our children neat, well behaved and adored by all? Trying to be that pictureperfect parent can truly be exhausting, but it is also unnecessary. Most children won’t be lining up to say their mother is perfect because she washes, dries and folds their clothes all in one day. More likely they think you are perfect simply because you hug them the best.

Here are a few things to remember when trying to overcome perfectionism: •• Celebrate every small victory and give yourself credit where credit is due.

•• Remove the ‘all or nothing’ mindset. The sun will still come up tomorrow.

•• Recognise the bigger picture and try not to get so caught up by the little things.

•• Learn from the failures, but don’t dwell on them.

Acknowledge that failures are part and parcel of success.

•• Learn to respect and love yourself.

Before having my firstborn, I thought there was a certain way to do everything. That there was a set of expectations that I needed to live up to, to be a good mother. Now I know that’s simply not true. From playing in the backyard on the trampoline well after dark, ordering takeaway at least once a week because we forgot to get something out of the freezer to defrost in time, to generally running around like a headless chook most mornings before the school run, our lives are happily imperfect!

My boys don’t need their mum to have perfect hair or to be incredibly fit or even to know the answers to everything. They just need me there.

Happy or perfect mum?

STORY Jodie Woodford, Pakmag Ambassador

Life pre-baby, I didn’t realise how stressed and overloaded I was.

Instead of being a lady of leisure, I somehow managed to fill every moment of the day with endless lists of tasks. I was a perfectionist.

I knew it, but I didn’t think it was a big deal and instead wore the label as a badge of honour.

Enter pregnancy, and my lists were now of acceptable foods, needed baby items, complete with a price spreadsheet and notes from my antenatal classes. I had everything planned to the finest detail and then … it all fell apart.

A week post labour and I’m so wound up as everything was wrong, and no matter what I tried my baby just wouldn’t latch. It had been a week of trying, failing, my baby screaming angrily in my face,

bottle feeding, expressing, cleaning bottles while the baby slept, baby awake again. Twenty-minute schedule gaps whispered the possibility of a nap, but my stress levels wouldn’t let me sleep. I was ‘failing’ at mum-hood, was convinced my baby hated me, and my domestic palace was falling apart.

My support network and local professionals swooped and confirmed that I wasn’t failing, that my bub’s latch problem was his alone and they also highlighted that a happy mum was more important than a perfect one. “Think of your childhood. Do you remember the clean dishes and laundry or do you remember your happy mother?” I was told that I needed to apply the oxygen to myself first.

A good lesson but for me, my most profound lesson, came when I was rushing, Tokyo-drifting my trolley through the shopping centre carpark when my son started screaming and pointing. “What, whaaaat, for freak’s sake?!”, I asked, sweating over my mile-long to-do list. I look up, and it’s a little nest of baby birdies, hidden high up in the rafters, cheep-cheeping away. And he is enraptured, his eyes and mouth wide open, staring serenely at the beauty of nature. Suddenly, I was standing there mentally unticking the boxes on my internal to-do list.

I still try to accomplish a lot, I’m still a hard worker, but I have lowered my expectations, scheduling downtime and only working within work hours. Please, I implore you, “Stop and watch the birdies too!”

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 9

Education

Why our children need to be reading and writing, on and off, their devices STORY Rachael Di Bella, Speech Language Pathologist, Catholic Education Services

We are constantly surrounded by evolving technology. Whether it be in our workplaces, on aircrafts, in the lunchroom or at our schools, we, including our children, are surrounded by technology and have an array of devices at our fingertips throughout the day.

It is safe to say screen time plays a large role in all of our lives, especially for many young children.

Many devices are used at school to access apps to typically support reading, literacy and numeracy development for our younger children and websites and video clips for our older children for the purposes of research and assessment. It is important for our children to be able to read and write, on and off, their devices to ensure they develop skills using both mediums.

The good things about digital and the not so good things about digital.

Screen time for young children is about choosing quality programs and apps to support their development while also aiming to develop healthy screen habits that will follow with them into childhood, adolescence and eventually adulthood.

Story continues on P.12

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Education

There are many benefits to using digital mediums, including getting them singing songs, copying dance moves, listening and moving along to nursery rhymes and sparking their imagination.

Good-quality apps or games for young children can: •• Encourage creativity – get children to draw pictures, make up stories or choose characters of their interest.

How to help with reading at home?

Depending on the age of a child, where and when they may want to read, what they want to read and how they want to read it, may differ. It’s important to be very flexible and find what suits your child best. By taking the time to explore how your child likes to read, this gives not only you but your child an opportunity to experience a range of ways to read and enjoy reading.

•• Develop communication skills – expose children to other languages.

Ideas include:

•• Encourage problem-solving skills – by asking children to match objects by shape or colour.

•• Pointing out words on signs whilst you are driving.

On the flip side, too much screen time can also be detrimental to our children’s development. Screen time can be used as a reward for completing a task or good behaviour, however, should be given with specific time limits. Whether this be a daily limit or limited to one day a week for a certain amount of time, it is important your child is aware that screen time is a reward and not something they use all day every day. It’s important that screen time is well balanced with face-to-face creative play and physical active time.

•• Reading pamphlets when visiting new places and talking about the attractions.

The good things about print and the written word.

Learning about print and the written word is important, on and off devices. Concepts of print involve understanding the difference between letters, words, punctuation and directionality. Using a hardcopy book to teach book and print concepts can assist with the understanding of these concepts.

•• Reading during bath time.

•• Listening to audiobooks on long car trips.

•• Attend Story Time at your local library.

•• Engaging in bedtime stories.

Other ways to engage your child are to read to them and involve them in the book by pointing to the pictures, have them turn the pages, ask them questions about the characters or what they may think will happen next. Let them explore the book without the pressure of having to read the words. Make reading fun and engaging. As your child experiences many positive reading experiences, they will soon see the fun in reading themselves.

How to help with writing at home?

Book concepts include:

As well as reading, your child’s writing skills are also important for when they enter school and beyond into their adult life. It takes time to develop strong writing skills, and for some children, it can be a tough task.

•• That a book is for reading.

Things you can do at home are:

•• The function and location of a book’s front, back, top and bottom.

•• Play games and activities that encourage writing.

•• How to turn pages one at a time.

•• That we read left to right.

•• The difference between print and pictures.

•• The location of author, illustrator and title.

Print concepts include: •• What a letter, word and sentence are.

•• That sentences start with capitals.

•• Oral language can be written and then read.

•• That print provides the reader with a message or information.

Ways to help your child master these concepts are by taking the time to point out these book and print concepts during shared book reading. An idea to make this process more engaging is to go on a scavenger hunt whilst reading. This can be done by asking your child to find the letters, words, sentences, punctuation and capitals in storybooks, pamphlets, newspapers and road signs.

12 November 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

•• Trace letters and words.

•• Practise writing with chalk and paint.

•• Finger painting or salt writing in a tray.

As we live in a world of evolving technology and have an array of devices at our convenience, it’s essential children are still given many opportunities to practice and improve their ability to write.

If you’re looking for more ideas and some resources to start you and your child on a fulfilling reading and writing journey using either medium, why not visit your local library and inquire about their First 5 Forever program or visit www.first5forever.org.au. With lots of wonderful ideas, you are sure to find some inspiration.

It is so important to ensure your children are able to read and write, on and off, their devices. Assisting them with both of these skills and teaching them healthy screen habits when they are young, will ensure that as they progress through adolescence and into adulthood, they will find themselves well equipped with a great range of both digital and non-digital skills.

Healthy Recipes

HEALTHY RECIPES

Raw Lemon Caramel Cheesecake with Buckini Base Serves 10. Recipe by Ashley Alexander @gatherandfeast Base 1 ½ cups caramelised buckinis ½ cup coconut flakes 1 ¼ cups dates 1 tsp vanilla powder 2 tbs coconut oil pinch sea salt flakes Filling 2 ½ cups raw cashews (soaked and drained) 150ml coconut cream ½ cup coconut oil ¾ cup pure maple syrup 2 tsp vanilla powder Zest of 3 lemons Juice of 1 lemon Pinch of sea salt 80g salted caramel chocolate

Quinoa & Chia Spicy Pumpkin ‘Risotto’ Serves 4. Recipe by Melissa Wallace @ wholesomedaily Ingredients 1 cup cooked quinoa 2 tbs chia seeds 600g kent pumpkin cut in large chunks ½ tsp turmeric powder ½ tsp dried chilli flakes 1 pinch cayenne pepper 1 pinch Australian salt ½ cup cooked peas 1 cup goji berries 2 cups sautéed kale Method Preheat oven to 200 degrees C.

Method Line a 20cm spring form pan with baking paper and set aside. In a food processor add the coconut flakes, dates, vanilla, coconut oil, sea salt and half the buckinis and blend until combined. Place the mixture into a mixing bowl and add the rest of the buckinis, mixing together well with your hands. Press the base mixture firmly into the pre lined pan and set aside.

Now add the filling ingredients to the food processor and blend until very smooth. Pour the creamy cashew mixture onto the base.

Then cover and place in the freezer overnight to set. When you are ready to serve, place on a serving plate. Gently melt the salted caramel chocolate over low heat, then drizzle it over the cake.

Add pumpkin with a little olive oil and season with turmeric powder, chilli powder and cayenne pepper. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Roast for approx. 30-40 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.

Add the quinoa, chia seeds, roast pumpkin, kale and peas.

Sprinkle with goji berries to serve.

NOTE: Remove the cake from the freezer 15- 20 minutes before slicing and serving. Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container in the freezer.

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 | November 2017 15

Health

HEALTH No time to exercise?

STORY Lizzy Williamson, Author of Two Minute Moves The Australian Bureau of Statistics found that the most common reason people give for not exercising is, a lack of time.

Before I began grabbing moments in my day to move, I was one of those people. How could I possibly fit exercise into my already overloaded schedule or get to the gym when I had a baby and toddler who wouldn’t even let me go to the toilet by myself? I couldn’t see the point in doing anything unless I could go for a certain amount of time or at a certain intensity, and that was the problem.

You need to break your exercise rules! So, you don’t have 90 minutes to do a boot camp class or sixty minutes for a jog? Do 20 pushups at your kitchen bench or jog up and down some steps ten times. Our allor-nothing mindset holds us back from doing anything at all.

You can incorporate exercise into your day. You don’t have to leave the house or work to work on your fitness and strength? Walk on the spot when you’re talking on the phone. Cycle your legs in front of you when you’re binge-watching Netflix. Do a vigorous scrub of your floor.

Remember that something is always better than nothing because it usually leads to doing more. Do you want to learn how to love your body, keep your sanity and live with vitality in just two minutes at a time?

For your chance to win a copy of Two Minute Moves visit www.pakmag.com.au

QV Skin Lotion Great for kids, this non-greasy lotion is pH balanced with a low-irritant formulation, free from fragrance, colour, lanolin and propylene glycol. Suitable for sensitive skin types and eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.

For best results, apply after your bath or shower.

QV Skin Lotion is available for a hot price at your local Calanna Whole Health Pharmacy.

National Skin Cancer Action Week STORY Kate Moloney At the beginning of summer every year the Cancer Council Australia and the Australasian College of Dermatologists come together for National Skin Cancer Action Week, this year from the 19th to the 25th November, to remind us all of the importance of sun protection and early skin cancer detection.

In Australia two in three people by the age of 70 are diagnosed with skin cancer, yet most skin cancers can be prevented by the use of good sun protection. Slip, slop, slap, seek and slide is the key: •• Slip on sun-protective clothing using it to cover as much skin as possible.

•• Slop on SPF30 (or higher) broadspectrum, water-resistant sunscreen.

•• Slap on a broad-brimmed hat that covers your face, head, neck and ears.

•• Seek shade making use of trees or built shade or bring your own sunshade.

•• Slide on a pair of sunglasses, closefitting wrap around styles are best.

It is important to take these measures to protect yourself from our harsh Australian sun, but it is also important to regularly check your skin. A simple check could save your life. With 95 per cent of skin cancers being able to be successfully treated, if detected early, it is imperative that you get to know your skin and your kids and take action if you notice any changes.

This summer reduce your risk of skin cancer and enjoy our beautiful summer safely.

For further details visit the Cancer Council Australia website www.cancer.org.au

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 17

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Babywearing benefits STORY Jennifer Taylor, www.momtricks.com Babywearing has provided many parents with happy memories of keeping their newest member of the family snuggled cosily against their chest.

And, either by using a fabric sling or other type of carrier, babywearing as a practice, has a long history throughout the world for many good reasons.

and baby immensely during the early weeks by letting the baby sleep peacefully, while snuggled safe and close to the parents’ chest. There are important safety measures to keep in mind including continually checking that your baby’s head and neck are straight and that their face is uncovered.

1. Promotes attachment and bonding.

5. Promotes healthy physical and emotional development.

Babywearing enables the continuation of your baby feeling snuggled warm, safe, and secure in constant closeness with you. These are important feelings for a newborn and is recommended by experts as a way to promote parent-child attachment, which is especially important during the early months for an infant.

2. Improves a mother’s ability to breastfeed.

Babywearing keeps your little one snuggled as close as possible, which can help provide your baby with skinto-skin contact. Studies, documented in the American Academy of Pediatrics, have shown that babies who receive skin-to-skin contact breastfeed better and longer and it also helps a mother improve and maintain her breastmilk supply.

3. Babies cry less often.

A study in 1986 by Urs A. Hunziker and Ronald G. Barr found that infants cry 43 per cent less throughout the day when carried more often. Babywearing keeps an infant in the closest contact with their parent, which helps the baby stay happy and comforted, and provides the parent with the ability to quickly respond to their baby’s needs.

4. Bub sleeps better.

The practice of babywearing can help both the parent

Babywearing can help with an infant’s physical and emotional development by providing the feeling of being safe, secure, and loved as the close contact allows the parent to be very responsive to the baby’s needs.

Babywearing also puts your little one at a different eye level, and they’ll learn so much by seeing all that is going on around them.

6. Provides parents with freedom.

Life with a newborn can feel very hectic, but babywearing can provide freedom by leaving your hands free to do what needs to get done. This can be especially helpful for parents with other children, as it allows them the freedom to spend time and attention on their other little ones while keeping baby happily close by.

7. Provides the ability to go places with ease.

A parent can take their child pretty much anywhere when babywearing. Slings and carriers are much easier to stow than a stroller is, and carrying your baby secure against your chest allows you to walk around with ease.

Are you ready to give babywearing a try? Learning the art of wrapping a sling or positioning a carrier correctly may feel difficult at first, but the many benefits of babywearing make it worth the effort you’ll invest.

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 19

Bump, Bub and Beyond

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

Petit Bamboo Comforter – Pink Floral RRP $39.95, www.petitbamboo.com.au These Petit Bamboo comforters will soothe your child and provide comfort whenever it is needed. Accompany it with their matching tops and pants to make the perfect baby shower gift! Made with ultra-soft bamboo, their baby clothing and accessories will keep your baby warm in Winter and cool in Summer.

Petit Bamboo is an Australian-owned baby fashion label that produces classic pieces for modern babies, with an eco-friendly focus.

Their vision is to deliver fashionable yet sustainable baby wear, without leaving a footprint.

Rashoodz Lulla Doll

RRP $59.99, www.rashoodz.com.au

RRP $99.00, www.sleeptightbabies.com.au Nothing can replace loving human contact however, the Lulla Doll aims to be a close second best!

Three mums from Iceland have created the Lulla Doll. Lulla is a sleep companion for preemies, babies, toddlers and beyond!

Lulla has velcro straps to attach safely to a cot, until your little one is old enough to cuddle Lulla.

Rashoodz Rashie Swimsuit & Attachable Hat Pineapple Party UPF50+. Chlorine Resistant.

Attachable hat with clips!

Easy nappy change clips!

Long sleeves to give extra protection. Beautiful Quality.

Lulla imitates closeness to a caregiver at rest, with its soft feel of natural cotton and soothing sounds of real-life breathing and heartbeat. Lulla plays for 8 hours to provide comfort all night long. Lulla’s unique design is based on scientific research that shows how closeness, and especially the sounds of heartbeat and breathing can improve safety, sleep and well-being. With Lulla, babies fall asleep sooner and sleep longer, their heartbeat and breathing stabilize, neurological development increases and there is increased well-being, lowered stress and less crying. Keep an eye on our Facebook page to see how you can win a Lulla Doll.

20 November 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Bump, Bub and Beyond

My child snores, is that a problem?

THE science of Lulla Doll

STORY Dr Scott Burgess, Children’s Sleep Specialist, Mater Health Services, Townsville.

The Lulla Doll’s unique design is based on multiple scientific research showing how the closeness of a caregiver, and in particular, the sounds of heartbeat and breathing, can improve sleep, wellbeing and safety.

Approximately 10 per cent of children snore. Snoring is the sound made by the vibration of the tissues of the throat as air flows through a narrowed upper airway.

Snoring may begin in infancy, but is more common at the toddler stage as tonsils and adenoids grow.

Colds and other problems affecting the nose can make snoring worse.

One in four children who snore will have regular dips in their blood oxygen levels or broken sleep, a condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. Common symptoms include hyperactivity, emotional outbursts, delayed learning and mouth breathing. Surprisingly most children are not necessarily sleepy once they get going in the morning. However slow growth, poor weight gain and strain on the heart are rare complications that can occur.

If you are concerned, a sleep study can be done on your child diagnose whether a child has Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

This involves measuring a child’s sleep quality (brain waves), breathing and oxygen levels while they sleep. The treatment of snoring depends on the cause and severity.

Townsville is very lucky to have a private sleep and respiratory outreach clinic for children. It is one of only two in Queensland, outside of Brisbane. This clinic can offer sleep studies for children over four years of age, however, for children under four years of age, sleep studies are performed in Brisbane.

Speak with your GP or Health Clinic if you would like to find out more about this service.

STORY Michelle Green, Sleep Right Babies

Lulla was developed over three years with the help of doctors, nurses, midwives, psychologists, engineers and parents. Infants depend on proximity and contact with their caregivers. The stabilising and calming effect of closeness and the sounds of heartbeat and breathing have been studied for decades. Closeness promotes the efficient functioning of immature organs and the central nervous system. The positive effects of Kangaroo care, skin to skin method, on premature babies helps them thrive in terms of regulating temperature and breathing. The closeness to the caregiver’s chest being a key component.

Significant, long-standing clinical studies on the effect of simulated breathing sounds on infants, shows less wakefulness, more quiet sleep, fewer startles and less crying. It has given hope for those infants unable to be close to a caregiver. Lulla plays eight hours of real-life breathing and the heartbeat of a mother at rest. Her name is Gudrun, an Icelandic mother of four and a kundalini yoga teacher.

Parents feedback shows that by using a Lulla Doll, your baby is more likely to sleep through the night at an early age. Babies with comforters are more secure in times of change, stress or separation.

Keep Lulla close to your skin for a few hours to ensure Lulla smells of you.

Lulla was designed to be a secondbest option when co-sleeping is not possible.

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 21

WHAT’S ON NOV NOV WEDNESDAY, 1 NOVEMBER Manggan - gather, gathers, gathering Runs until 26 November Museum of Tropical Queensland mtq.qm.qld.gov.au 9.30am / Cost / Family Mothering and Fatigue IMPS Building, Kirwan Health abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.30am / Family Rugby League World Cup Runs until 05 November 1300SMILES Stadium www.rlwc.com Check Website The Volunteer Managers Café Runs until 17 November Volunteering North Queensland www.vnq.org.au 9.30am / $10 / Youth+ Horrible Histories - Pirates: The Exhibition Runs until 4 February 2018 Museum of Tropical Queensland mtq.qm.qld.gov.au 9.30am / Cost / Family FRIDAY, 3 NOVEMBER Dread Sovereign: Jonathan McBurnie Runs until 28 January 2018 Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Family U3A Tour Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 1.30pm / $5 / Family

Get Ready for Prep!

Entropy Toy Store www.entropy.com.au 9.30am / Free / Family Kirwan State High Creative Arts Expo Riverway Arts Centre ticketshop@townsville.qld.gov.au 7.30pm / $10 / Family Showcase presented by FAD Cheer and Dance Townsville Townsville Civic Theatre ticketshop@townsville.qld.gov.au 7.30pm / $37.50 / Family SATURDAY, 4 NOVEMBER Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4728 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

JCU Townsville Fire Vs Bendigo Spirit Townsville Stadium www.townsvillefire.com.au 7.00pm / Cost / Family

Melbourne Cup Luncheon Townsville RSL www.townsvillersl.com.au 11.00am / $85 Member / Adult

Melbourne Cup Luncheon The Ville www.the-ville.com.au 11.30am / $140 / 18+

Santa Paws CastleTown www.castletown.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family

Townsville Remembrance Day Anzac Park and Riverway townsville.qld.gov.au 10.30am / Free / Family

TUESDAY, 7 NOVEMBER

Flavours of Latin America A Touch of Salt townsvilletickets.com.au 3.00pm / $40 / Family

Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4729 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4729 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

Christmas Country Fair Craft Market Holy Spirit School 0420 936 721 8.30am / Free / Family

Santa Arrives Post Office Entry, CastleTown www.castletown.com.au 11.00am / Free / Family

SUNDAY, 5 NOVEMBER

SATURDAY, 11 NOVEMBER

JCU Townsville Fire Vs Adelaide Lightning Townsville Stadium www.townsvillefire.com.au 3.00pm / Cost / Family

Art-Box Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Gold Coin Donation / Ages 0-5

Belt Exams Choi Kwang- Do www.choikwang-do.com.au 8.00am / Free / Family

With 4TO FM’s Minty

Vov Dylon: Sentimental Journey (Live Music) The World Theatre 4761 5430 2.00pm / $15 / Family SUNDAY, 12 NOVEMBER Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4729 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

WEDNESDAY, 8 NOVEMBER Summer of the Aliens Runs until 12 November Full Throttle Theatre Company www.fullthrottletheatre.com 7.00pm / $25 / Youth+

November 4x4 Fun Day Millchester Motor Sport Recreation Facility 0418 290 387 Call for More Info WEDNESDAY, 15 NOVEMBER Keep Baby Cool/Festive Season IMPS Building, Kirwan Health abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.30am / Family

FRIDAY, 10 NOVEMBER Colour My World Riverway Arts Centre ticketshop@townsville.qld.gov.au 7.00pm / $32 / Family

4-Day Pre-Ashes Cricket Series Riverway Stadium 4727 9797 10.00am / Cost / Family

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 23

WHAT’S ON NOV NOV FRIDAY, 17 NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY, 22 NOVEMBER

PBR Iron Cowboy Runs until 18 November Townsville Entertainment Centre www.tecc.net.au 7.00pm / Cost / Family

Share the (Martial) Art Choi Kwang- Do www.choikwang-do.com.au 4.00pm / Free / Family

Riverway Movie Night - Storks Riverway Lagoon www.townsville.qld.gov.au 7.00pm / Free / Family

Breastfeeding and Sexuality Aitkenvale Library abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 7.30am / Family

SATURDAY, 18 NOVEMBER

THURSDAY, 23 NOVEMBER

Nth Qld Babies and Kids Market Emmaus Hall, Ryan Catholic College nyomi@nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com 8.30am / $2 / Family

JCU Townsville Fire Vs Melbourne Boomers Townsville Stadium www.townsville.qld.gov.au 7.00pm / Cost / Family

Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4729 9011 10.00am / Free / Family Croft-Gilchrist - Tiny Tots Concert Townsville Civic Theatre www.townsville.qld.gov.au 11.00am / Cost / Family SUNDAY, 19 NOVEMBER Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4729 9011 10.00am / Free / Family Family Fun Day Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4729 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

FRIDAY, 24 NOVEMBER Drawn: From the City of Townsville Art Collection Exhibition Launch Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4729 9011 6.00pm / Free / Family Alex Williamson: Make the World a Banter Place Riverway Arts Centre www.frontiercomedy.com 7.30pm / $37.50 / 18+ SATURDAY, 25 NOVEMBER

TUESDAY, 21 NOVEMBER

Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4729 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

Art-Box Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Gold Coin Donation / Ages 0-5

Little Snappers Swim School Northside 1 year celebration 114 Geaney Lane Deeragun 4751 6111 for more information www.littlesnappers.com.au

24 November 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Pakmag Christmas Show Target Forecourt, CastleTown www.castletown.com.au 11.00am / Free / Family NQPA End of Year Production - The Search Townsville Civic Theatre 4727 9797 4.00pm / Cost / Family An Evening with Damien Leith Riverway Arts Centre www.damienleith.com.au 7.30pm / $60 / 18+ SUNDAY, 26 NOVEMBER Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4729 9011 10.00am / Free / Family WEDNESDAY, 29 NOVEMBER Park Play, Coffee and Chat Dan Gleeson Park abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.30am / Family SAVE THE DATE: FRIDAY, 15 DECEMBER Riverway Movie Night Beauty and The Beast Riverway Lagoon www.townsville.qld.gov.au 7.00pm / Free / Family MONDAY, 18 DECEMBER Stable on the Strand - NQ Christmas Festival Runs until 22 December Strand Park www.stableonthestrand.com 5.30pm / Free / Family

With 4TO FM’s Chooky

MONDAY, 25 DECEMBER Christmas Day Lunch Grand BallRoom - The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 12.00pm / $170 / Adult SATURDAY, 2 DECEMBER Breastfeeding Education Class Thuringowa Library abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.00am / Family Giant Christmas Parties Grand BallRoom The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 7.00pm / $125 / Adult WEDNESDAY, 6 DECEMBER Introducing Family Foods IMPS Building, Kirwan Health abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.30am / Family WHAT’S ON GUIDE CONTINUES ON P.29

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 25

A DOUBLE PASS TO PADDINGTON 2!

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In November 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a double pass to Paddington 2 Competition closes 30/11/2017

Name Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

26 November 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Age

COLOUR ME IN SONGBIRD SERENADE

A DOUBLE PASS TO MY LITTLE PONY THE MOVIE!

MyLittlePonyMovie.com.au #MyLittlePonyMovie

IN CINEMAS NOVEMBER 2 FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In November 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a double pass to My Little Pony The Movie Competition closes 10/11/2017

Name

Age

Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 27

A MYSTERY PRIZE!

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In November 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a mystery prize!

Competition closes 30/11/2017

Name

Age

Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

WHAT’S ON DEC DEC SATURDAY, 9 DECEMBER

WEDNESDAY, 13 DECEMBER

Giant Christmas Parties

Charlotte’s Web

Grand BallRoom -

Runs until 16 December

The Ville Resort - Casino

Full Throttle Theatre Company

www.the-ville.com.au

www.fullthrottletheatre.com

7.00pm / $125 / Adult

Check Website

SUNDAY, 10 DECEMBER

MONDAY, 25 DECEMBER

Christmas in the Creek

Christmas Lunch

Melville’s Farm - Alligator Creek

Townsville RSL

events@gatorgirls.com.au

www.townsvillersl.com.au

4.30pm / $10 per Car Load / Family

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

SUNDAY, 31 DECEMBER

Christmas Day Breakfast Aqua - The Ville Resort Casino www.the-ville.com.au 7.00am / $55 / Adult

Casino Royale NYE Party Grand BallRoom The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 8.00pm / $170 / Adult

Christmas Day Lunch Aqua - The Ville Resort Casino www.the-ville.com.au 12.00pm / $155 / Adult

New Year’s Eve in Miss Songs The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 8.30pm / $190 / Adult

11.00am / $95 Adult / Family

Christmas Day Dinner Aqua - The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 6.00pm / $110 / Adult

New Year’s Eve in Aqua The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 5.00pm / $55 / Adult

Bush n Beach Markets Date: 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am – 1.00pm Location: Bushland Beach

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 | November 2017 29

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

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

BELGIAN GARDENS STATE SCHOOL PLAYGROUP

MOUNT LOUISA SCOUT GROUP

Days: Mondays Time: 9.00am - 11.00am Location: Belgian Gardens SS Hall More Info: 4717 1333 or rickandjules4@bigpond.com Cost: $2 per person

Joeys and Cubs (6-10)

FIRST FIVE FOREVER

Location: Mt Louisa House of Praise (Bayswater Rd) More Info: 0427 677 994 (Troy)

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

Days: Tuesdays Time: 6.30pm - 8.00pm Scouts (10-14) Days: Thursdays Time: 6.00pm - 8.00pm

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.

30 November 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

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.

TOWNSVILLE LIFESTYLE HUB FREE FITNESS SESSIONS Fit Club Exercise Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 6.00pm Location: Meet at Clubhouse 10 Sturgess St., Hermit Park Days: Saturday Time: 8.00am Location: Meet at Clubhouse 10 Sturgess St., Hermit Park More info: Sharon - 0412 341 768

MAINLY MUSIC

TOY LIBRARY TOWNSVILLE (THE TOY SHED)

For Babies to pre prep aged children. Fun, music, morning tea and free play

Days: Second Thursday of month (excluding January) Time: 3.30pm - 5.30pm

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

Days: Second Saturday (excluding January) Time: 9.00am – 12.00pm

MOPS - Mothers of PreSchoolers For mothers with children 0-6 years. Connect, relax and recharge.

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)

Location: Fitzroy Street, Heatley Librarian: 0420 585 069 or childsplaytownsville@gmail.com Secretary: 0400 815 279 or facebook Toy Library TOWNSVILLE TOY LIBRARY Days: Every Tuesday and Saturday Time: 9.30am - 11.00am Location: 23 First Street, Railway Estate Community Centre More Info: Check their Facebook page Townsville Toy Library for updates

Celebrate

END OF YEAR CELEBRATIONS As the end of the year quickly approaches, it’s time to stop, reminisce and celebrate with our family and friends on all of the accomplishments the year has brought.

To help you throw the best end of year party, here are some top tips and tricks: •• Always have an easily accessible drinks station available for your guests. From a simple table to rustic crates, the options to display your refreshments are endless.

•• Create different entertaining areas with unique and comfortable options. Use blankets and pillows for a quiet area for your guests to chill out in, and if your entertaining involves dining, ensure you have plenty of table seating for when it’s time to dine.

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•• Try using battery operated candles on your table for a safe but beautiful glow. Incorporate small pot plants and use baskets to hold your napkins, cutlery and salt and pepper shakers. Let your personality shine through in your table display.

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32 November 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Simple Spring Salad Dressings Amp up the flavour at your next barbeque with these fresh salad dressings that use nut or seed bases with plenty of spices, fresh herbs and flavor. They are perfect on top of any salad, on baked sweet potatoes, or on top of grilled, roasted or steamed vegetables.

Cashew Turmeric Dressing • 2 inch piece of fresh turmeric • 1 tsp of fresh ginger • ½ tsp of curry powder • 2 tbsp of soaked cashews • 1 carrot roughly chopped • 1 tsp white miso • 2 tbsp unpasteurized lemon juice • 1 tsp tamari • 3 tbsp macadamia oil • 1 tsp raw honey, optional • ¾ cup of water Tahini Orange Dressing • 1/2 cup tahini • 2 tsp miso • 1 tsp coconut nectar • 1 tbsp of tamari • 1 tbsp flax seed oil • 3 tbsp of orange juice • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar • Salt and pepper to season • 1/4 cup of water Green Superfood Salad Dressing • ½ a ripe avocado • ½ cup of fresh basil leaves • ½ cup of fresh coriander leaves • 1 cup water • 1 tbsp of olive oil • ½ tsp of spirulina (optional) • ½ tsp of salt • 2 tbsp of lemon juice • ¼ tsp of smoked paprika • 1/8 tsp of chili flakes or cayenne pepper • 1 tbsp of nutritional yeast • ½ tsp of honey Method Place all ingredients of chosen dressing in your blender and blend until smooth. Add more water to get desired consistency. Store in a jar in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

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

1. Harvest Dinner - www.stylemepretty.com 2. Tapas Bowls - RRP $8.00ea - www.eggplantandpoppy.com.au 3. DIY Tropical Centerpiece www.blog.birdsparty.com 4. Mia Stripe Tank Maternity Dress - RRP $84.95 - www.ellej.com.au 5. Kip & Co Salad Servers - RRP $79.00 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 6. Wooden Golf Set RRP $105.00 - www.earthtoys.net 7. Apron Rad Dad - RRP $29.00 www.eggplantandpoppy.com.au 8. Kids Amalfi Fedora - RRP $19.95 www.hello-miss-poppyseed.myshopify.com 9. Chelsea Floral Tutu Dress - RRP $44.95 - www.ellej.com.au 10. Green Cathedral Babanees Bench American Oak - RRP $600.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au

Party Guide

TOWNSVILLE PARTY GUIDE It’s our Townsville 7th birthday edition! It’s been an incredible seven years at the PakMag office and we’ve loved every single minute of it. This edition is our 84th edition of PakMag Townsville and we are so pleased to share this special birthday with you, our readers. At PakMag we absolutely love parties (if you couldn’t tell), so whether you are looking for entertainment, food, activities, decorations or a venue, you’ve come to the right place! Check out our top hot spots for birthday party fun in Townsville.

AMUSEMENTS PLUS Amusements Plus is a locally owned and operated company committed to working with you. Whether it be a small family function or a large corporate event, their goal is to provide entertainment to a high standard at a reasonable price. Your satisfaction is our priority!

They can provide amusements, fun, rides and entertainment for parties ranging in age and style from young children to teens, 18th, 21st and adult parties of all types.

Call: 0488 676 701 Web: www.amusementsplus.com.au CHIPMUNKS PLAYLAND & CAFÉ Chipmunks is the perfect birthday party venue for boys and girls aged between 0 – 11 years. With no fuss, no clean-up and guaranteed fun.

Chipmunks is the ideal venue for your next private function for sports break ups, school functions or large birthday party groups to suit your budget. No matter whether your child is a princess, pirate or loves Charlie Chipmunk.

Don’t forget your socks!

Call: 4724 2219 Web: www.chipmunks.com.au INFLATABLE KINGDOM For a birthday party full of actionpacked fun, bounce on in to Inflatable Kingdom inside Sk8way and enjoy non-stop action that your kids will remember.

Call: 4755 4422 Web: www.inflatablekingdom townsville.com.au and www. inflatablekingdommackay.com.au RIDES N SLIDES Make your party easy and stress

free with Rides n Slides! Catering for all different parties with a huge range of amusement equipment, you can hire everything you need to make your party a success.

Call: 4724 4790 Web: www.qldamusements.com.au HANDS ON WILDLIFE Hands on Wildlife bring all their friendly animals directly to you.

Let them entertain the kids and guests by introducing their friendly lizards, snakes, crocodile, and some fuzzy friends. Everyone will get the chance to touch and hold the animals so there are lots of great photo opportunities.

Whether you are planning a small get together or a large scale event, they can make your party unforgettable!

Call: 0437 056 156 Web: www.handsonwildlife.com.au KIRWAN AQUATIC CENTRE More than just a swimming pool!

They have many options to suit your party requirements starting from catering yourself or let Kirwan Aquatic do it for you. All parties will have their own marquees, tables and chairs supplied.

Perfect for birthday parties and functions, the Tropical Splash Water Castle is a popular feature at Kirwan Aquatic Centre. The Tropical Splash is included in some of the Birthday Party Options, and can be hired for functions. It is also utilised during the school holidays, and supervised by two qualified Life Guards at all times.

Call: 4723 3447 Web: kirwanaquaticcentre.com.au

TOWNSVILLE TENPIN AND FUN CENTRE The staff at Townsville Tenpin & Fun Centre will make your birthday party one to remember!

Birthday party packages available to suit all your needs. There are lots of optional extras you can add to make your party extra special!

Interested in having your party at Townsville Tenpin & Fun Centre?

Call to plan that perfect, stressfree party.

Call: 4773 2133 Web: www.townsvilletenpin.com.au LAUNCH ZONE Looking for an awesome venue for a kid's birthday party?

Launch Zone is the place to go. With a range of party packages, private party rooms, a host for the duration of your party and delicious party food, Launch Zone is perfect for your next birthday celebration.

Call: 1300 launch (528624) Web: www.launchzone.com.au CEDRIC CORRE PATISSERIE For all your cakes and sweet treats – perfect for parties and functions!

Cedric Corre Patisserie offers a delicious selection of small cakes and pastries, fresh homemade bread and celebration cakes. They also do savoury snacks such as homemade gourmet meat pies, sausage rolls, and quiches. This is a family run business and everything is made with quality ingredients and great customer service.

Call: 0400 551 701 Web: www.cedriccorre.com.au DON’T FORGET TO TELL THEM YOU READ IT IN PAKMAG!

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 35

Business

WHAT’S NEW IN BUSINESS A Taste of Paris in Townsville!

Life insurance, what it is and why your family needs it, now!

Cédric Corre always aims for the pastries, cakes and desserts that he expertly crafts from his patisserie, to be as tasty and beautiful as any you would find in Paris or anywhere in France.

Life insurance, like superannuation, is something that most people always put off until tomorrow. But can your family really afford not to have it?

STORY Leisa Quagliata, Financial Divorce Coach, Sempre Financial

Imagine it is 8 pm, and suddenly there is a knock on the door, you open it, and there is a policeman standing in front of you. In an instant, life as you know it is gone forever. Your head feels like it’s underwater and you can no longer hear the policeman talking. You have gone into shock thinking about how you are going to tell the children. What’s worse, how are you going to pay the bills? You’ve got a mortgage, school fees, daycare fees, car loan, credit cards, the list is endless.

How will you ever survive?

This is a scenario that we never think can happen to us, but what if it did?

Would your family be able to withstand the financial impact of losing one or both parents?

According to leading researcher, Rice Warner, a typical couple aged 40 with children, requires life insurance cover equal to about ten years income of the higher-earning partner. This recommended amount is just to repay debts and maintain a base current living standard following the death of a partner.

This family-run, award-winning business is a wonderful source of awesome cakes, desserts, pastries and meat pies for all kinds of occasions and parties.

They use only beautiful, quality ingredients in their products, which are prepared by Cédric, a chef and pastry chef with more than 20 years’ experience in France, England, USA, Sydney and Townsville.

Many Australians live with a false sense of security, mistakenly believing, their default insurance through superannuation will be enough. However, the average required life insurance for a family is approximately $680 000, while the typical level of default cover falls well short of this at approximately $200 000. With policies available for less than $5 per day ($500 000 benefit), isn’t it time you gave your family some peace of mind?

Pop into Cédric Corre’s Patisserie at the Hermit Park Shopping Centre on Charter’s Tower’s Road or check out their delicious products online at www.cedriccorre.com.au

Lastly, life insurance is not one size fits all. It really is best to speak to a licensed financial adviser or insurance broker to discuss what is right for you and your family.

36 November 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Advertorial

Message from the Minister: PRE-CHRISTMAS STORY Hon Coralee O’Rourke MP It’s almost that time of year again! As we draw closer to the festive summer season, my thoughts turn to what has happened this year in my life.

It has been a busy year for me as a Minister and Member of Parliament. Lots of travel, late nights and meetings to make sure that Townsville’s voice is heard in Brisbane. I’ve learnt a lot, and I’ve been challenged, but above all, I have always felt fortunate and humbled to represent the people of Mundingburra.

My journey from being a child care professional to politics came about because of my drive to achieve better things for the people who are around me, and for our local community. I am proud to be a member of a government that is delivering more than $689 million in infrastructure and capital works in Townsville, more than $43 million to improve our local schools, and investing over $935 million in our Townsville Hospital and Health Service. In addition, our government is investing $225 million towards water security measures for Townsville, including the new Burdekin pipeline.

As your local representative, I continue to draw my strength and determination from the daily conversations

I have with people across our community. Be it about our local schools, hospitals or roads, I will always work hard to ensure the Mundingburra electorate gets its fair share.

I am 100 per cent committed to our local community.

I live here, my children and family live and work here, and that’s why I am passionate about delivering the things that Townsville needs to ensure it is the best possible place to live. Please continue to keep in touch with me and my office regarding the issues in our local community – I will always listen and take your voice to Brisbane to be heard.

On a final note, this past year has been a personally exciting one with the arrival of my first grandchild. This will be my first Christmas as a grandmother. Having a new life in our family has reminded me to stop and take the time to enjoy the special moments in life with our loved ones.

I know that this Christmas will be a time for my family and me to count our blessings and enjoy time with our special new addition. I wish the same for you and yours, and for the very best 2018 possible!

www.pakmag.com.au | November 2017 37

Challenges

Challenges with Children: We Can All Help STORY Rose Foster

Raising children is no mean feat, we all know that. Juxtaposed between happy moments and intense laughter, are days of despair and frustration. And bringing up children with a disability is no different; there are still joyous times and difficult times, it’s just sometimes, the difficult times can be a little more challenging to deal with physically, mentally and emotionally.

A quick internet search will show you that there are a plethora of websites, organisations and articles which provide helpful information, advice and services to families with children who have disabilities. But when it comes to gathering information for these families’ social support network (their friends and wider family), knowing where to look for tips on how to help can be a little difficult.

There are a growing number of ways that parents can seek information on how to help their own children who are struggling with disabilities, and some of these also focus on support for the parents as well as the child, too.

Sometimes though, there’s nothing like the support of your loved ones, the ones who you’d just love to see for a coffee, the ones you can cry with, and the ones you can just talk nonsense to.

How Family and Friends Can Help Asking for help is often not in our nature, so when it comes to supporting parents of disabled children, there is an element of guess work, a dash of kindness and a whole lot of compassion.

1. R U OK? You will have undoubtedly heard the slogan, and know the message behind this important movement of suicide prevention. Depression is an issue that is thankfully getting more widely understood, and it’s an issue that many parents of children with disabilities face, often in silence. By simply asking, “Are you ok?”, and talking through how your friend is feeling (no matter how big

or small the issue), can go a long way to making a huge difference in their ability to deal with the challenges in their and their family’s lives.

2. Help Vouchers Even after we’ve been offered help, actually accepting it does not always come naturally. Sometimes we don’t feel comfortable putting out our friends and family, and take on everything ourselves. So, to combat this, and to show your friend you are serious about offering your help, why not create a voucher booklet that they can redeem at any time? Think about what they might need your help with and what you can offer them, and print up the vouchers to suit their needs. They’ll appreciate it more than you know.

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Challenges 3. Communication Communication is King! You’ve probably heard it before, but it has never been truer than when it comes to supporting a friend or family member with children with a disability. Communicate often, selflessly and thoughtfully. This can simply be checking in to see how they are, asking them to meet for coffee or just saying hello.

4. Listen This might seem straightforward, but sometimes all that is needed is your ear. That means really listening and being engaged in the conversation. You don’t have to offer advice or a solution, you don’t have to contribute your opinion and you don’t have to pretend to understand. Sometimes trying to relate your problems to your friend’s, or giving a piece of advice that they’ve heard a thousand times is not as helpful as you may think!

5. Remember it’s not Always a Struggle Yes, their lives are different, and yes sometimes there are hard times, but when supporting carers, it’s important to know that their lives aren’t miserable (well, no more than the rest of us!). Don’t assume that families are having a hard time, and certainly don’t pity them – it’s just not necessary, and doesn’t make them feel better about their situation. But how will you know if they fall into the ‘happy’ category? Well, if you’ve followed the first four steps here, you won’t have to wonder!

How Strangers Can Help Obviously, not all of us know of someone close to us that we can support in the ways outlined above.

However, even if that is the case, there are still things we can do when we come into contact with families with children with disabilities.

We spoke to parents who have children with disabilities and they gave us some advice on what makes them and their child feel good when they are out in public.

1. Don’t treat them differently Don’t stare. Don’t avoid eye-contact, or smiling. Don’t treat children or families with disabilities any differently than you’d treat a child or family without. Being made to feel different can be very isolating for these families, so if you see these families out and about, smile, say hello, comment on the child’s pretty dress, ask them if they’re enjoying the park, and just generally make them feel that you don’t see them as unlike you and your family!

Also remember that not all disabilities are visible, so there’s a lesson in itself; just treat everyone you meet with a kind heart and a friendly smile!

2. Teach your children empathy Talking with your children about disabilities and how they should interact with children with disabilities can also go a long way to making these families and children feel like they are a member of their community. Imagine how a child with disabilities would feel if your child ran up to them pointing and asking what was wrong with him. Now imagine the difference it would make to the same child when they are approached and asked if they’d like to play.

3. Random act of kindness Here at PakMag, we’re big advocates of random acts of kindness for the whole community, but these acts can make a huge difference in the lives of families who live with challenges. Pay for a coffee, offer to carry those heavy bags to the car or leave a gift basket on a neighbour’s doorstep, it will brighten the cloudiest of days.

Having a support system is one of the most important aspects of living with disabilities, and it’s great when that support extends to professional advice too. Local organisation breakthru prides itself on supporting families in the community to help them navigate the NDIS. With the recent implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, families who have children with disabilities are amongst those who may feel like they have more questions than answers. But breakthru aims to make things simple. So, if you have questions, breakthru have the answers.

PakMag Exclusive Preview Screening This month, PakMag, thanks to Event Cinemas, will be running an exclusive preview screening of Wonder.

The movie tells the story of August Pullman, a young boy with facial differences. This heart-warming movie is a great insight into the world of a child with disabilities and encourages us all to ‘choose kind’. To enter the draw to win tickets, simply head to our Facebook page and post a picture of yourself reading PakMag, or enter on our website. Make sure you ‘like’ our Facebook page for more chances to win!

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Adult Education

Invest a little in you STORY Kate Moloney Taking time off work to start and raise a family can leave mums in a position where to re-enter the workforce, they need to reskill due to the constant, rapid technological advances that occur during this time. Others find that the time off has given them breathing space to re-evaluate their career resulting in a desire to ‘birth’ a new career.

Committing to study is a big decision, but one that has hugely rewarding results. Depending on what career you wish to pursue, your study options may range from a short course through to a University degree. Many courses these days are offered online or externally and can be completed part-time, and some are even selfpaced. There really is a myriad of options available. Just by taking the time to have a look at what is available may lead you to a fulfilling role that you may not have previously considered.

There are government initiatives in place too, such as the Mothers Returning to Work Grant, that can provide financial assistance for training courses and programs to assist you financially.

Commencing study is a change that the whole family will need to adjust to, so here are a few tips that will help you with this next exciting stage of your life: •• Be realistic. When choosing your course, ensure you thoroughly consider your situation, your family and take on a study load that is practical.

•• Good planning is essential. Prioritise and set yourself achievable mini goals. Weekly mini goals and lists can keep you on track. Use free calendar apps to

schedule the whole family’s activities that you can all access.

•• Schedule in fun. Plan fun activities with the kids and your partner on weekends or afternoons. When you get busy, it is easy for this to slip, so schedule it in.

•• Learn to let go a little. It is okay to accept help, it is okay that the family is not eating a gourmet meal every night, it is okay that the house is not absolutely ‘white glove’ spotless. Give yourself a break from the unnecessary chores and focus on what is really important.

•• A healthy you, is a productive you. Eat healthy food and ensure you get enough sleep; if you are physically exhausted you will not be able to perform to your best.

•• Create a support network. Make connections with other mums studying, these social relationships can be invaluable for your mental well-being. Find your courses Facebook group.

•• Study when you can. Make the most of every opportunity, even if it is only a 30-minute block, use it. Find what works for you.

Studying while parenting is a challenge but with good planning, dedication and support you can realise your dream.

As mums, we give so much of ourselves to ensuring that our partners and kids dreams are realised so why do we not put as much into realising our own! Take that step and find out what your future could hold.

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

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1. Cars 3 Race & Learn Tablet - RRP $29.95 - www.vtech.com.au - Help Lightning McQueen win the big race with the Race & Learn Tablet™. Interact with your favourite Cars 3 characters as they come to life in fun and engaging activities on the LCD screen. Seven exciting games introduce letters, objects, spelling, number order, counting, logic and more 2. The Sleeping Beauty, written by David McAllister and illustrated by Gabriella Tylesova - RRP $29.99 - Available in all good bookstores - Published by Little Hare an imprint of Hardie Grant Egmont, released 1 November 2017 3. PAKitToMe Pineapple - RRP $16.99 - www.envirotrend.com.au - Everyone needs a backpack, but where do you store it when you’re not using it? EnviroTrend® has come up with the ultimate compact backpack - the PAKItToMe™. No bigger than a snack size packet of chips when folded, PAKItToMe™ folds out into a generously sized backpack with adjustable straps, 2 side pockets and a pocket at the front.

It’s easy to stuff back inside and weighs just 150g 4. The Reading Mountain Set - RRP $63.00 Set - www.thereadingmountain.org - All kids want to read chapter books like older kids. The Reading Mountain’s simpler ‘super cool’ chapter books are specially written for children aged 4-7. The decodable words in these stories make it easier for a child who is learning sounds and their corresponding letters. The Reading Mountain’s books are created with beautiful art and supportive graphic novel features. Available in two sizes in print and as eBooks. 5. Globber PRIMO Fantasy Scooter - RRP $130.00 - www.globber.com.au - Perfect for pre-school to school aged kids, the new Globber PRIMO Fantasy scooter is built to last delivering on style, design and safety. It’s extremely easy to learn on with an ultra-low deck for better stability, adjustable T-bar, durable handlebar grips for a comfortable ride, and front steering lock button to help kids quickly master corners and straight lines. Supporting up to 50kg it suits those aged 3+. It has light up front flashing wheels and an exclusive printed deck.

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6. Platypus Australia UV Swimwear - Girls outfit RRP $59.95, swim short RRP $54.95 and matching rashie RRP $49.94. Total giveaway $164.85 - www.platypusaustralia.com - Platypus Australia is a high quality, fashionable UV Swimwear brand for Children aged 0 - 14. 7. Mega Monopoly - RRP $80.00 - www.winningmoves.com.au - Own more properties and build skyscrapers in Mega Monopoly! Everybody loves the timeless game of Monopoly. Now in Mega Monopoly, you can own more property, build more buildings and handle more cash! The huge game board has 12 extra property spaces including eight new streets, each added to a colour group. Mega Monopoly is a new way to play the world’s favourite board game! 8. Qi Slim Tea - RRP $5.15 - www.qitea.com.au - Qi Tea introduces its latest tea organic offering; a new chemical free Slim Tea designed to promote thermogenesis, a process which can help burn more calories and promote weight loss. Qi Tea differs from other slim teas currently available on the market. It doesn’t contain any aggressive laxative ingredients which have the potential to have an effect on your body’s natural abilities, and can result in dehydration, stomach cramps and diarrhoea. As a result, Qi Tea is able to be used as part of a balanced diet to improve overall health and wellbeing. The subtle combination of spices, cinnamon and burdock root combine to make a warming tea. 9. Opening Fairy Doors - RRP $36.00 - www.openingfairydoors.com.au - Celebrate the season with our beautiful Red Glitter Fairy Door, covered in bright red glitter, to twinkle and sparkle on your wall! And as with all of our Fairy Doors… it OPENS, so when placed on a wall or shelf, the door is still able to OPEN OUTWARDS and close, just like a real door should. Individually hand crafted, hand painted and packaged in our workshop in Melbourne, this fairy door has the natural texture of hand-painted timber with the attention to detail and quality that hand-crafted items have… and it comes beautifully boxed, ready to give! Includes “Christmas by the Fireplace” background picture which is inserted into a solid panel built on the back of the door.

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1. Shaun, Alex & Rebecca Campbell 2. Aparna Nagarai & Mihira Vasisht 3. Damian, Patricia, Matthew & Lachlan Sorbello 4. Mia & Everly Cottrell 5. Elsie, Arlo & Edie Reeve 6. Tim, Levi & Rebecca Williams 7. Trudy, Dan & Lachlan Cassidy 8. Shannon & Quinn McDermott

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Mater Snapped

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Photography thanks to: Josephine Carter - 0455 295 416 www.josephinecarterphotography.com

9. Chris, Claire & Xavier Martin 10. William & Jacqui Duncan 11. Manjit Kaur, Uv Sambah, Simran & Bree Virdi 12. James, Annabelle, Jonathan & Tara Pidgeon 13. Riley & Alison MacDonaald 14. Jamie & Ellie Ruth 15. Hutton, Lyla & Kathleen Ralph

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Home

SPRING CLEANING With the Block’s Caro and Kingi

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Spring cleaning may seem almost impossible with your busy lifestyle. But by simply organising your jobs throughout the week and following our top tips for a cleaner, happier house, you too can have a successful spring cleaning season.

Tip 1 – Make a list. This helps you visualise what needs to be done. From washing the windows to decluttering the fridge, by simply writing everything down you can easily manage your time and prioritise those bigger jobs.

Tip 2 – Inside and out. It’s important to clean both the inside and outside of appliances. From the oven and vacuum to the dishwasher and washing machine, these appliances should be cleaned every one to two months for optimum performance.

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Click through in our online mag to download our printable linen labels

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Tip 3 – Organise with labels. Labelling shelves in a cupboard, like the linen cupboard, will save both time and stress when searching for items in the future.

By glancing at each label, you can quickly grab what you need without rummaging through piles of linen.

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NATURAL CHEMICAL-FREE CLEANING RECIPES Say goodbye to everyday grime with these chemical-free cleaning recipes: Heavy duty natural toilet scrub.

For a fresh smelling and clean looking toilet simply put ten drops of tea tree essential oil and half a cup of baking soda into the toilet. Add a quarter of a cup of vinegar and scrub away while the mixture froths in the toilet bowl.

Microwave Magic.

Remove those unwanted splatter marks in your microwave for good. Fill a small microwavable cup with half vinegar and half lemon juice. Place in the microwave for two minutes and let it stand for several more after, without opening the door.

Using a warm sponge, simply wipe down the inside of the microwave, no scrubbing necessary!

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DADDY DIARY Threes a party, particularly when it comes to the English language. Some of the most wonderful things a person can say come in threes. “I love you”, “Honey I’m home” and “Double cheese burger”, all spring to mind.

But sadly, none of the above are at the top of the three-word scoreboard at the Clifton residence at the moment. No, it’s one other little triple treat that reigns supreme. One little sentence said so often that I’m finding myself muttering it in my sleep. And that winning sentence is …”Eat your vegetables!”

My beautiful wife Michelle and I have a three-and-abit-year-old daughter, Matilda. She loves food. A trait she’s inherited from her father. Garbage Guts, is what my mum used to call me (and by ‘used to’ I mean still does any opportunity she gets). Matilda’s clearly a chip off the old block. She’s always hungry. But the strangest and most frustrating part of it is, despite always being hungry, she never wants to eat. I can prattle off a whole shopping list of potential tummy fillers before she settles, usually, on the first option. It’s a frustrating process. But the frustration level I talk of at these

snack times has nothing on dinner time. Oh no, no, no.

That’s a whole new ‘watching the grass grow’ level of frustration.

To be 100 per cent honest, the protein and carbohydrate component of Little Miss Three’s dinner is not an issue.

She’ll happily smash down some chicken nuggets and spaghetti (dry, like no sauce at all, delicious) without a fuss. But it’s when it comes to the main item on the food pyramid, vegetables, that’s when the real fun begins.

The arch nemesis of so many of those little humans we call ‘toddlers’.

Michelle and I have all but given up on trying to feed her solid vegetables. You can only witness so many baby carrots hit the dining room floor before you throw in the towel. She just won’t stomach them. And despite Matilda being three and well and truly past the newborn days, we’ve actually made the call to go back to ‘mushy veg’ on the dinner plate. We’re talking all the good stuff here. Sweet potato, pumpkin, and a little pea, carrot and corn mix thrown in for good measure. All boiled and mushed right up. And surprisingly, it’s kind of working.

Perfect parents out there (you know the ones), would have you believe that it’s important that children eat whole vegetables. We say, “Whatever works, works.” As long as some of the good stuff is getting into that little body of hers, we’re happy. Except of course for that one rather large spoonful she catapulted across the open plan living area that hit the TV. If it weren’t for the fact that it was such an impressive shot, I probably would have been mad at her.

Cliffo Hit 103.1 Townsville

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