Autumn 2012
Meet Professor Donna Cross
WA’s Australian of the Year Mother’s Day
gift guide TiPs for kiDs To
Eat vegies
FREE
The Contributors ARI CHÁVEZ, COLUMNIST has had work published in Australia, Japan and England, and is currently completing her first novel as part of a PhD project. Ari has recently given birth to her first child, Gabriel.
currently doing the breakfast show on 92.9 FM with Basil Zempilas and Sam Mac. As a mother, Lisa wants to “nurture, encourage, teach, inspire and give my love unconditionally... because the reward is so incredibly great”.
MELANIE HEARSE JOURNALIST and mother of seven and four year old boys, has worked on a range of local and national publications, focusing on parenting, health and lifestyle articles. She worked for 10 years in the public health sector before deciding to follow her passion to be a writer when her first son Max was born.
Claire Armstrong, Journalist a journalist of five years and a mother of two. “I love a challenge, journalism provides me with a mental challenge and motherhood has the ability to challenge every aspect of my being, and I wouldn’t have life any other way.”
GARY AUSBRUCH, ACCOUNTANT
DEVON PLUMLEY, MIDWIFE believes her work is most satisfying when she can empower a woman and her partner to birth their baby naturally; and the new little human being thanks his mummy with a squeal!
is financial controller for a Perthbased mining company. When not busy controlling the finances, he has had columns published on the challenging subject of the lighter side of accountancy, and has written for SBS TV. He has two young children, Ella and Sebastian. Tara Dryland, Journalist When she’s not managing the family business (Cafe 58), Tara is busy being a single mum to her beautiful one-year-old son, Jett. She loves working for Offspring, as it allows her to merge her passions for writing, parenting and kids fashion!
Kate Bullen, Dietitian
BROOKE EVANS-BUTLER, JOURNALIST has written for home
JENNIFER BLACK, TRAVEL WRITER
improvement, bridal and women’s lifestyle publications, but says Offspring enables her to combine writing with her new favourite hobby, being a mum to her beautiful boys Caleb and Baby Jonah.
Beth Johnston, journalist worked in print media before welcoming gorgeous baby boy Sam into the world. She is now doing some freelance writing and absolutely loving being a mum. “Sam changes so much every day, so it’s great to be able to keep that passion for writing but not miss a thing.”
4 Offspring | autumn 2012
LISA FERNANDEZ, RADIO ANNOUNCER is a Perth girl who is
Runs www.dietitianonline.com.au and is mum to two young children. Kate has translated her love of all things online to providing expert nutrition coaching online – it works well for anyone who is busy! Kate’s passion lies in making healthy eating simple and enjoyable.
was an Award Winning Travel Manager for Flight Centre and Harvey World Travel for 10 years. After years of personal travel experiences and now with two young boys in tow, Jennifer writes about ‘Family’ Travel - where to go and how to get there with minimum stress! MIYA MAEDA, ARTIST/BLOGGER earned a BA in Fine Art and worked in the visual arts industry for over 10 years. Miya is the creator of the kids craft blog: jellyfishjelly.com She currently cares for her young family by day and writes for her blog by night.
I
’m just a mum but I’d make a
the while we could be, would be, should
great circus performer. A juggling
be, doing everything a helluvalot better.
clown walking a tight rope, controlling a
Hold on. We need something for
set of balls, forever trying to catch each
ourselves. And I feel blessed to have
one, all the while watching the others,
found my thing – Meditation. Without
simultaneously putting one foot in front
it, I’m on one long wibble wobbling
of the other, concentrating so I don’t fall,
journey along the tightrope of my life,
and I have the big red smile painted on
always just saving myself from falling
my dial because, of course, it’s a breeze,
off, and terrified of dropping one of the
helps us do a better job, not to mention
oh, and not to mention so much fun!
balls...and, more like a scary, grumpy
enjoy the process a whole lot more.
That’s modern parenting. Yes I’m aware the old days were
clown than a happy, child entertainer. When I have that time out just for
And that “thing” comes in different forms: I have friends who run, others
tough without washing machines,
me I’m a better wife, better mother,
sing, some garden and there are those
dishwashers, day care, not to
better friend, daughter, sister, a better
who paint. Whatever gives us mental
mention terry towelling nappies
person. We can give more of ourselves
space and calm to help us cope
and undomesticated husbands who
when we have enough first. You put
better with the modern parenting
didn’t know a baby’s bottom from
your own oxygen mask on and then
whirlwind. That, or having the staff
its elbow. But, these days, (for some
your baby’s.
pool of Angelina Jolie...
bizarre reason) we feel the need
It can feel unnatural and against
to be everything to everybody and
mother’s instincts sometimes to allow
everywhere at once, all of the time, all
time out for ourselves but I think it
Offspring | autumn 2012 5
contents autumn
4
The Contributors
5 Editor’s Note
Feature articles 10
Meet Professor Donna Cross,
WA’s Australian of the Year Find out why this Perth mum was the recipient
10
of the prestigious award for 2012. 16
Wilderness Trail Autumn fashion for kids
22 Off the Air – That’s showbiz! Kids just love to perform, on and off the stage,
Lisa Fernandez discovers
24
To Mum with love
Special Mother’s Day feature to help make
it a special day for Mum this year
30 Modern family From the nuclear family to the donor mum, a few Perth families share with Tara Dryland the benefits and challenges of different family structures
36 Internet Picks Our selection of websites offering gorgeous
products for your kids
38 The Great Pram Push Perth families are pushing for a worthy cause
6 Offspring | autumn 2012
24
16
Give your child a head start at school! The online reading program for kids!
5 Years
3-4 Years
First Steps The playroom section is designed especially for 3 and 4 year olds. Completing the activities with your child is a great shared activity that will help develop positive attitudes towards reading and learning.
Ready for School Your child can build the early reading skills that will help them do well at school. The team behind ABC Reading Eggs has been creating successful reading materials for schools for the last 12 years, and this experience has resulted in the best online reading program.
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Fun Practice Makes Perfect Your child can take a placement test to ensure they are working at a level that matches their ability. The program is excellent for older children who need more practice to increase their reading speed and comprehension. ABC Reading Eggs also develops key skills in spelling.
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Continuing the Reading Journey ABC Reading Eggspress is packed full of hundreds of great online activities, games and over 1000 e-books. It’s a great way for your child to continue developing their reading skills.
GET YOUR FREE 4 WEEK TRIAL! ABCRE2019 BTS2012 SPR27WAP
Register your child at www.readingeggs.com.au and use this code: SPR27WAP
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Cover photograph of Donna and Sarah Cross was taken by Frances Andrijich.
ISSUE 9 Autumn 2012
77
Offspring magazine is produced and published by Family Life Publications ABN: 55 398 258 346 PO Box 724 Claremont 6910 Contact Phone 08 9499 1291 Website www.offspringmagazine.com.au Editorial enquiries editorial@offspringmagazine.com.au
Pregnancy & Birth 40
Advertising enquiries advertising@offspringmagazine.com.au
My pregnancy diary
Subscription enquiries subscription@offspringmagazine.com.au
Offspring writer Brooke Evans-Butler shares a week by week account of
Managing Editor Kate Durack
her pregnancy journey
Contributing writers Beth Johnston, Lisa Fernandez, Brooke Evans-Butler, Ari Chavez, Claire Armstrong, Tara Dryland, Gary Ausbruch, Ngala Parenting Education Team, Rebecca Martin, Miya Maeda, Kate Bullen, Jennifer Black
46 Our darlings Cute children’s photos supplied by our readers
48 Funny mummy’s business – Laundry daze Just like the Magic Sack of Potatoes, Ari Chavez shares the all-too-common battle of getting to the bottom of the laundry pile
50
Crafty Critters - Hop to it!
50
Simple and fun easter crafts for kids
Graphic Designers Sally Travis, Robyn Balfe Photography Frances Andrijich www.andrijich.com.au Emilia Gray www.onesiesandco.com.au Printed by Scott Print
Early Childhood 52
Toddlers brain matters Learn why the early years are so important for memory forming and brain development
55 Special Feature - Young talent time Discover why the performing arts are so beneficial for children’s health, development and well-being and find out about some local centres that can help develop your child’s talent and interest in the arts
8 Offspring | autumn 2012
Distribution 30,000 copies distributed by paid subscriptions and for free at selected locations throughout Perth. Offspring magazine is an independent magazine published quarterly by Family Life Publications. Opinions represented are not necessarily those of the publisher. Offspring magazine contains general information and does not claim to substitute for health or parenting advice. All content is subject to copyright, and may not be reproduced without permission.
62
Food & Nutrition 62
Vege out! Dietitian and mother Kate Bullen shares some helpful tips on getting children to eat vegetables
66 Dad’s Word – Baggage bungles Family holidays are fun but packing for kids isn’t always so enjoyable, or straight-forward, as Gary realises
Travel 68 Are we there yet? If you’d love to take the family to London, this might be the year to do it with the Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee all set for 2012
71
Calendar of Events Events for WA families this Autumn
73 Directory - Parties
75 Directory - General
Ple visit of ase f Magzinspring Faceboe on ok!
Subscibe today via our website www.offspringmagazine.com.au Email your details to subscription@offspringmagazine.com.au or call Offspring magazine 08 9499 1291
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11/05/11 9:45 AM
Offspring | autumn 2012 9
Meet WA’s Australian of the Year
Prof Donna Cross By BETH JOHNSTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANCES ANDRIJICH
Professor Donna Cross believes you can do anything when you feel loved, supported and a sense of belonging. It is this philosophy and an innate passion to improve the health and education of our children that resulted in her recently winning the prestigious title of 2012 WA Australian of the Year. 10 Offspring | autumn 2012
D
onna Cross is genuinely surprised. She has just
been told she is the 2012 WA Australian of the Year
and it’s a huge moment, not just because of the enormity of the award itself.
From an outsider’s perspective, the work being done by Professor Donna Cross and her beloved team at the Child Health Promotion Research Centre (CHPRC) is nothing short of invaluable. Based at Edith Cowan University in Mt Lawley, the CHPRC is breaking ground in four main areas which impact our children: mental health, injury control (which includes road safety), physical inactivity and drug use (in a broader sense - smoking, alcohol and illicit drug use).
It’s not just about learning how to deal with those issues, but discovering the important precursors that are changeable when children are young. Donna’s surprise at being awarded WA Australian of the Year doesn’t stem from undervaluing her work, it’s due to the fact that the sheer nature of the research means it often goes unrecognised for many years. “With our research, we don’t often see results for 20-30 years,” Donna says.
“Most people don’t fail in their jobs due to a lack of knowledge or skills, they fail because they can’t get along with others.”
award and says she was humbled and privileged to win given the calibre of the finalists and their wonderful commitment to their fields. The other nominees this year included well known builder and philanthropist Dale Alcock, sporting mentor Gerard Neesham and soldier Ben Roberts-Smith, who was awarded the Victoria Cross. Donna refuses to take all the credit for winning such an esteemed award, and in talking about it, she will always refer to “we” and “us”, meaning her
“We are investing when children are very young, hopefully for conditions
team at CHPRC. In her acceptance
that we won’t see for a number of
speech, Donna was quick to thank her
years. It’s a real sleeper effect.” “So for the award to acknowledge this investment in the future, it just floored me. “People these days are often looking for the cures and
team and her family. “I am so fortunate to work with outstanding colleagues, I believe you are only as good as the people you spend time with and I am privileged to work with champions of child
instant fixes, but we’re really upstream, we’re not the
health in the Child Health Promotion Centre. I have also
ambulance, we’re building a fence to stop people from
been so fortunate to have a very supportive family who
dropping in the water or helping them to swim more
have always encouraged and supported me to never give
safely, so we don’t need as many ambulances at the
up,” she says.
bottom to pick them up. “So it is wonderful to see the community is
The Woman
acknowledging the importance of prevention and
So who is the woman deemed to be the best citizen in our
optimising children’s health.”
fair state?
The WA Australian of Year Award celebrates the achievement and contribution of leading citizens who are genuine role models, inspiring us all through their achievements. Donna is still not sure who nominated her for the
First and foremost, Donna Cross is a wife of 30 years to Evan and a mother to William (15) and Sarah (10). Family is everything to Donna, which is probably why she injects so much passion into her work, as the two are closely related.
Offspring | autumn 2012 11
outside. Subsequently, most of the children lacked the fundamental skills which came from social interaction, cooperation and negotiation. “For all children, social skills need to be purposefully taught,” Donna says. “It’s not an innate response.” “Resilience comes from knowing that there are lots of people around you who love you and support you and unfortunately many of those children didn’t have that kind of environment. That’s why gangs became popular; children were looking for that sense of belonging. Our job was to try and help the children find more positive ways to interact with others.” Because their outside environment was so unsafe, the children often brought a lot of those aggressive behaviours with them to school. Donna says there was now quality research to show that if children have a positive school environment, it can
“I love what I do and I’m very lucky that I work in an area that is so interesting and has such great application to my own life,” Donna says. “I’ve always been passionate about health and I love teaching and being around young people.”
“We think of our family as a tribe, if a big decision needs to be made, we make it together.”
She and Evan always make sure one of them is home for gone to bed they both do more work. It sounds like a well-oiled machine, but Donna admits that even she struggles to make it all work at times. “We think of our family as a tribe, if a big decision needs to be made, we make it together,” Donna says. “But like all parents I don’t do a good job all the time,
“That’s what inspired me,” Donna says. “There’s just so much that can be done to support vulnerable children. What can schools and the community do for children so they can optimise their health? That became my career goal.” Coming back to Australia, Donna opportunities that existed to make a real difference to children by providing
6am, exercising, and then enjoying
the children after school and once William and Sarah have
environment.
was excited to start exploring the
It’s that passion that sees her getting up at 4am every morning, working until breakfast with her family before taking the kids to school.
help to compensate for their home
the right supports and looking at what children need in key developmental windows.
The research “Most people don’t fail in their jobs due to a lack of knowledge or skills, they fail because they can’t get along with others,” Donna says. “It’s so important for people to learn how to get along with others and it has to be taught.” Social and emotional development is a common thread
there are lots of times when I think ‘Oh my goodness!’
which runs through the four main areas of focus for
and I feel more guilt than most because I have all this
Donna’s research.
knowledge of how I should be doing things better. “But I do try hard and I’m lucky to have the most amazing, supportive husband, I think that helps a lot.”
The career Donna started out briefly as a maths and health and physical education teacher, but the real defining moment
Where other organisations identify problems, Donna and her team at the CHPRC look at how to respond to those problems, examining what needs to be done and at what age. “So what age do these conditions start to manifest and what can be done prior to that time to address it?” Donna says. “We could stand at the end of the stream and pick out
in her career came from a five-year stint working in
the children when they are highly aggressive and violent
Harlem in the USA.
in the community, or we can get in, when we know that
In an area with such high crime and mortality
an important development window is four to five years of
rates, Donna said the big major focus in schools was
age and provide support to parents, families and schools
on safety as it wasn’t safe for the children to play
to ameliorate some of the aggressive behaviours those
12 Offspring | autumn 2012
children have that then set them up on these problem behaviour pathways.” “A major predictor for adult mental health problems
weekend, but only as a trade-off for physical activity. Prevention begins at an early age and Donna says one of the first and easiest places to capture a large group
and community violence is being highly aggressive at
of children was on their entry to school so that is where
a young age. It’s such an important indicator that is
many of their research programs begin.
changeable.” Unfortunately parenting doesn’t come with a manual, but Donna said they she and her research team were doing their best to guide parents in the right direction so they
“Our research is showing that the younger you can help children and their families, the better off they will be,” Donna says.
knew what they needed to be talking with their children
The facts
about and at what age.
Did you know that children should not be crossing the
For example, she said there was enough evidence to show that if you are going to quit smoking as an adult,
road alone until they are 10 years old? According to Donna, children under 10 have very
it is essential to do this well before your child is nine.
limited perceptual and cognitive ability, one third of the
Evidence suggests that children are more likely to smoke
peripheral vision of an adult and they have non-directional
as adults if they have parents who smoke, and especially
hearing – so they might hear a car coming but they won’t
if their parents continue to smoke as their children move
know where it’s coming from.
into early adolescence. “Parents need to be aware of the sorts of things they’re doing and how strongly their behaviour influences what their children do,” Donna says. It’s a massive factor in getting children active and Donna is adamant that parents are so important as role
They think that big cars go faster than small cars, so they are more likely to step out in front of a small car. They think that if they can see the driver then the driver can see them and if the body of something is static like a car, it’s hard for them to judge whether it’s moving or not. Donna and her team are trying to relay this information to
models setting an example for their children by being
the community through the development of a DVD for parents
active and eating a healthy diet. Further, Donna believes
and reinforced through road safety activities in schools.
there is a strong focus on ‘fatness’ while fitness is the greater problem. For her own children, Donna limits “screen time” to 1-2 hours of screen time a night of their own choice (television, computer, etc), sometimes more on the
Tackling the issue of bullying on the other hand is where things get a bit trickier, particularly when it comes to cyber bullying. Bullying occurs in many forms and peaks at two points during a child’s school career - grade five and the
Offspring | autumn 2012 13
If they are being bullied, Donna says it is really
transition from primary to secondary school. But, according to Donna, there are ways you can help prepare your child dealing with such behaviour.
important for parents not to panic, but rather listen and draw information from their children and help them to determine ways to deal with these
“Bullying is a relationship problem,” Donna says. “As a parent, it’s our job to give our children as many opportunities as possible to meet different people and have lots of different groups of friends. “Then, if one group of friends was to fall away, they are still getting some social kudos and competency. “We need to help them learn what it means to be a friend, what they give and what they expect in return.” She suggests role-playing, so if a
“Bullying occurs in many forms and peaks at grade five and the transition from primary to secondary school.”
situations. She said manipulate the discussion so you’re a partner with them, not face to face or across a table, but rather shoulder to shoulder so it is less confronting. Donna says bystanders’ tolerance of bullying was what really needed to change, as it was a behaviour that had been around for a long time and existed at all levels of society, but was allowed. “It is really easy in our society to
situation arises on a television program or in a story, ask your child how they would act in the same situation and always help them to bring it back to first person. “You’re creating a grab-bag of actions so they feel much more prepared and resilient, rather than anxious,” Donna says. “It’s about giving children social competence.”
keep blaming the person bullying, but it’s not just this behaviour, it’s the reactions of the kids around them who can often encourage that behaviour and reinforce it,” she says. Bullying behaviour happens because those perpetrating perceived that they were more popular and had more power, but Donna says if the group didn’t give them that power, the behaviour would extinguish very quickly. “Of the children we’ve interviewed, 80% say they hate bullying and would like to do something about it, but don’t for fear of them being the next victim,” she says. “We need them to know that almost everyone feels the same way.” “We’ve been working hard to raise awareness that if you’re there and watching it happen, then you’re a part of it.”
Learn and grow through play! A Playgroup is a group of parents and other caregivers who meet with their children aged 0-5 for interaction and fun. Not a member yet? A Playgroup WA membership can offer you: Invitation to events, play days and workshops Member discounts with ABC Baby Card Hotline access for advice FREE copy of Totline Magazine And so much more! With nearly 500 Playgroups operating in WA, there’s sure to be one near you. Why not move your Mother’s Group into a Playgroup and reap the rewards!
For more info call 1800 171 882 or visit www.playgroupwa.com.au
That extends to the online community, an area which Donna says is most challenging to decipher, because children were often fearless and more highly skilled with technology than adults. “It’s easy for parents to blame the technology for these behaviours and to take that away from young people, but unfortunately, it’s part of who they are now and they’ll find a way to use it,” Donna says. “To me, it’s a bit like a swimming pool – we know it’s dangerous for children to swim, so do we just take the pools away or do we teach them to swim safely. “They’re not going to stop swimming, just as they are not going to stop using the internet, so we really have to take a harm-minimisation approach and show them how to use it more safely. “Even in an online environment, where there are often no adults to help, we need to encourage young people to recognise that they are the ones who can increase or
“Communities Enriched through Playgroups”
14 Offspring | autumn 2012
decrease that bullying behaviour.”
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WILDERNESS TRAIL Easter is a great time to get away camping and go bush... See what some of our favourite advertisers have in store for this Autumn.
On Ava: Fox & Finch denim jacket $28.50 and Bella print dress $31.50, Yunginz butterfly boots $70.00 / On Mia: Two Belles Dreamer tee $49.95, e3-M Bubble dress $99.95 (shown without combo t-shirt) / On Lachlan: Alex & Ant raglan navy/chambray hoodie 39.95, Tommy Rocket washed denim jeans $74.95, Keen Pyrennes hiking boots (waterproof) $120.00
Photography by Onesies & Co
16 Offspring | autumn 2012
ABOVE: On Ava: Fox & Finch Arabella embroidered yoke dress $28.50 and hooded poncho $29.50, butterfly boots $70.00 / On Maddison: Eeni Meeni Miini Moh skegging $49.95, French terry sweater $74.95 and boatneck top $44.95, Asterbelle crochet hair clip $14.95 (available from Sweet Creations) RIGHT: On Caiden: Fox & Finch bold stripe cardigan $27.50 and slim leg jeans $28.50, Pediped Amazon brown adventure sandals $68.00 / On the line: Eeni Meeni Miini Moh enfant beanie $29.95, legging $36.95 and t-shirt $39.95
LEFT TO RIGHT: On Maddison: Alex & Ant garden glamour nave/lace dress $49.50, Yunginz butterfly boots $70.00, Asterbelle crochet headband $16.95 (available from Sweet Creations) / On Tiarn: Alex & Ant ballet wrap white tee $34.95, Two Belles spot slouch pants $74.95 / On Ava: Fox & Finch faux denim jegging $23.50, Scarlett faux fur gilet $33.50 and tee $19.95, Pediped Giselle choc brown shoes with spots $62.00 / On Mia: e3-M gauge knit frill sweater $79.95 and signature headband $16.95, Two Belles floral print leggings $29.95, Walnut chocolate long boots $80.00 / On Lachlan: Tommy Rocket cargo pants $74.95, knitwear $69.95 and Martian sloppy joe $64.95, Keen Pyrennes hiking boots (waterproof) $120.00
Offspring | autumn 2012 17
ABOVE LEFT TO RIGHT: On Lachlan: Tommy Rocket Martian sloppy joe $64.95, knitwear $69.95 and cargo pants $74.95, Keen Pyrennes hiking boots (waterproof) $120.00 / On Mia: e3-M gauge knit frill sweater $79.95, Two Belles floral print leggings $29.95 / On Zac: e3-M pant-3D (in taupe) $79.95, e3-M Herringbone t-shirt $44.95, e3-M Military jacket $149.95 Millie & Boris knitted cable blanket $79.95 (available from Sweet Creations) LEFT: On Tiarn: e3-M Beret (rhubarb) $39.95 and Angular dress $99.95, Fox & Finch basic leggings (in navy) $12.95, Walnut long boots (in caramel) $80.00 BELOW RIGHT: On Jayden: Fox & Finch rocket print tee $14.50, mini stripe cardigan $27.95 and slim leg jeans $28.50, Keen Gypsum dark earth trail shoes $100.00
18 Offspring | autumn 2012
On Maddison: Eeni Meeni Miini Moh balloon twin dress (sorbet + rhubarb) $89.95, Fox & Finch basic leggings (in rose marl) $12.95, Pediped Potpourri canvas Mary Jane $62.00
Offspring | autumn 2012 19
On Tiarn: Alex & Ant ballet wrap white tee $34.95, Two Belles spot slouch pants $74.95, Walnut long boots (in caramel) $80.00 / On Maddison: Alex & Ant garden glamour nave/lace dress $49.50, Yunginz butterfly boots $70.00 / On Ava: Fox & Finch faux denim jegging $23.50, Pediped Giselle choc brown shoes with spots $62.00 / On Lachlan: Tommy Rocket cargo pants $74.95, Keen Pyrennes hiking boots (waterproof) $120.00 / On Mia: e3-M gauge knit frill sweater $79.95, Two Belles floral print leggings $29.95, Walnut chocolate long boots $80.00
Stylish, educational gifts and nursery interiors for babies and children
15% off using code ‘offspring’ (does not include sale items or Il tutto bags)
On Jayden: Fox & Finch print tee $13.95, slim leg jeans $28.50 and boys scarf (in fern) $14.95, Keen Gypsum dark earth trail shoes $100.00
Regata red tee pee $239.40 (available from Sweet Creations) Robert Gordon party bunting $15.95 (available from Piece of Cake Parties) Felt ball garland $55.00 (available from Sweet Creations) Mini milk bottles $29.95 (for crate of 6, available from Piece of Cake Parties) Polka Dot paper straws $7.95 (for pack of 18, available from Piece of Cake Parties) Clothing from Tommy Rocket, Two Belles, Fox & Finch, Eeni Meeni Miini Moh and Alex & Ant is available from Funky Kids All footwear as shown is available from Magic Shoebox
Shop online
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20 Offspring | autumn 2012
Stockists: Funky Kids: Garden City Shopping Centre, Karrinyup Shopping Centre, Wembley www.funkykids.com e3-M: www.e3Mkid.com Sweet Creations: www.sweetcreations.com.au Piece of Cake Parties & Celebrations: pieceofcakeparties.com.au Magic Shoebox: www.magicshoebox.com.au Photography & set by Onesies & Co portrait photography www.onesiesandco.com.au
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OFF THE AIR with Lisa Fernandez
THAT’S SHOWBIZ! Kids just love to perform, on and off the stage, as Lisa discovers
I
’m ashamed to admit this now, but before I had my
hated ballet classes so I wanted
daughter, Isabella, I was judgemental and smug towards
my child to enjoy their childhood and not be
other parents. I was one of those childless outsiders, who’d
forced into sweaty Saturday afternoons
look on, horrified, as a toddler threw a massive tantrum in a
of torturous singing lessons. Wow. What
shopping centre…thinking...‘That’ll never be my kid’.
a judgemental bitch I was. My opinions
If ignorance is bliss then I was right off the Richter scale
then were all the more arrogant because
of stupidity in thinking that an out-of-control toddler is
I had no idea about kids...none. I hadn’t
the result of bad parenting. At the time though, it’s what I
ever even babysat a small person.
honestly believed. I was also very against young children participating in
But never fear. The universe, in her infinite wisdom, realised I needed the karmic
singing and dancing competitions. Ballet classes I deemed
equivalent of a good slap around the head...
conformist and overly regimented, and as for the parents
So I fell pregnant, gave birth and was presented with an
who dressed their kids up to perform like circus animals
absolute firecracker of a kid, which could be a nice way
for audiences or talent scouts? ‘Disgusting’, was the word I
of saying she is 100% hard work. Or, the most headstrong
recall using.
child on this planet. Ironically, she throws spectacular
I was of the opinion children should be free to express
supermarket tantrums, on her stomach smashing the floor
themselves and not be forced to live out the unrealised
with both fists, undeterred, when I walk away, right out the
fantasies of their pushy parents. I had endured years of
automatic doors. She knows how to humiliate me in public, and does it often. I’m telling you people, Karma really does exist. Want more proof? Okay. How about this: If Bette Midler, the ultimate showgirl, were dead, I would swear that she had been reincarnated into my child’s body. Isabella is like Beaches on crack. She is a one-child minstrel show who loves performing on any raised platform while simultaneously critiquing her facial expressions on any reflective surface. I’ve yelled at her to ‘Get away from the mirror!’ so many times I’m scared she’ll have a lifelong complex about her own image. On the other hand, maybe not. I saw toddlers like her performing on TV and I remember thinking, ‘I hate that little kid’, and now I’ve given birth to that little kid. Oh Karma, revenge must taste sweet! My lounge room is centre stage for this singing, dancing, acrobatic diva - and she’s only just gone two. But here’s the kicker. Having a real life child of my own has completely changed my opinion about showbiz kids. I now believe it would be a parenting crime of the highest order if I didn’t encourage her love of performing, because Isabella honestly loves it. And just to be clear, there is not, nor has there ever been, any excessive push from me to show her off or get her to sing and dance on cue. And my dad, who we live with (her grandpa), is an accountant. Enough said about that. So if she’s happy singing and dancing then I say sod what anyone else thinks. I’ll enrol her in every class she enjoys and
22 Offspring | autumn 2012
not because I want to become rich off her future earnings as the
from Bunbury who performed with all the class of Hugh
next Lady Gaga. (Although let’s be honest, that’d be awesome!)
Jackman but, with a better smile, and then young Chloe
If Isabella has a natural talent then as her mother I have an obligation to explore the depth of that talent and nurture
tapped her way through the same number as Hamish, with the added confidence of someone who had previously made
it as best I can. I have become the unofficial champion of child entertainers. Just this week in fact, I was asked by Channel 7’s Today Tonight to be on their judging panel for a segment asking, ‘Do WA Kids have the X-Factor?’ I sat alongside fellow judges The Lord Major, Lisa Scaffidi, and renowned Perth entertainer,
it to our screens on Australia’s Got
As for the parents who dressed their kids up to perform like circus animals for audiences or talent scouts? ‘Disgusting’, was the word I recall using.
Jamie Mercanti, debating the calibre of talent we would see in such youthful performers. They started with 11 year old Hamish who sang, danced
Talent...and she was only 9 years old! The last act of the day was Sophia the beautiful 5 year old ballerina. She was so adorable I instantly reconsidered enrolling Isabella into ballet. They were all amazing, talented kids but most importantly, each one of them loved every minute of being on stage. And passion like that you just can’t fake. The entertainment industry is
tough and it’s ruthless and kids who want to be part of that industry need all the love and support they can get. I
and tapped his way through a flawless performance of “The
speak from experience when I say that the applause and
Boy from Oz” followed by 9 year old Savannah performing
adulation does wonders for your ego, but there’s honestly
a gymnastic/acrobatic routine so energetic we were left
no greater feeling in the world than hearing your mum or
breathless just watching her. Next was 13 year old Harry
dad tell you they’re proud of you.
Offspring | autumn 2012 23
Special Feature
To Mum By Claire Armstrong
Mother’s Day is just around the corner. It is that one special day where we typically honour, celebrate and adore the mum in our lives and say thankyou for all she has done. Offspring has compiled a gift guide for a range of budgets and every kind of mum to make your shopping experience a breeze this year.
Get crafty A great one for the kids with endless possibilities from painting a picture or portrait, to hand print castings or a macaroni necklace. Mums love the surprise of finding out what their children have been creating, knowing that they put thought, time and effort into creating their masterpieces and seeing the pride on their faces. It is hard to beat handmade in any mum’s book.
Poetry Try using your own words and memories to express your love in a poem or short story, it doesn’t have to rhyme.
Create a coupon book Include vouchers that Mum can use whenever she desires, such as a day off from house duties, a sleep-in, back rub or free babysitting.
Flowers A gift for mothers of all ages and can range in price from those you pick from your own garden to expensive bouquet deliveries.
Cuddles Just hug your mum and tell her you love her!
24 Offspring | autumn 2012
Special Feature
Frame a photo A picture’s worth a thousand words so print off your favourite photo of you and Mum. Or get creative and for a small fee you can turn that photo into a puzzle, coaster, stubby holder, t-shirt, key ring, tote bag or even a ceramic tile.
Breakfast in bed Treat Mum to her favourite breakfast in bed and maybe even some quiet time to eat it while it’s hot.
Baking Get in the kitchen and whip up your mum’s favourite chocolate cake, cookies, cupcakes or muffins.
Green thumb Buy some seeds or potted flowers so that
For bed Pyjamas are always a
your gift keeps on giving throughout the year.
winner or you might take it up a
Chocolates Any sort will do.
notch with a dressing gown and slippers - all prepped for winter!
Go glam Makeup, nail polish, hair care and skin products are
things your mum might use but never buy for herself.
Wine Again, any sort will do.
Offspring | autumn 2012 25
Special Feature
Books and magazines The latest release by your mother’s favourite author, a photographic collection, a cookbook or subscription to your mum’s favourite magazine are gifts that last longer than the day itself.
Music and Movies Treat your mum to a night out
at the movies, or expand her music collection with a new CD, iTunes voucher or compile your own CD of songs that mean something to you and your mum. If you are willing to spend a bit more you could treat your mum to concert tickets, or to a musical, ballet or the theatre.
Perfume Buy a new
bottle of her signature
A massage or day spa voucher Nothing says
fragrance or expand her
pampering more than a trip to a day spa to indulge.
collection with a new
Sentimental jewellery There are some beautiful
scent.
pieces out at the moment, charms that can include
Breakfast, brunch or lunch Book a table (well
children’s fingerprints, pendants with family trees and family member’s names engraved, birth stone rings with
in advance) and take Mum
a gem to represent each child or just something pretty
out for a meal.
and glamorous.
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26 Offspring | autumn 2012
Special Feature
Digital SLR camera Mum can work on her photography skills and make her own wonderful photo albums. Match it with a digital photo frame to display her
Donate Do something special for all mothers
captures.
out there and donate to breast cancer research.
High end electronics Keep Mum up to date with the
Take Mum on an adventure From thrill-
latest technology with a Kindle e-reader or iPad, iPod or
seeking sky diving to an acrobatic light plane
MP3 player, Wii console or even a GPS that you could set
flight. Or learn something new with cooking
up with the co-ordinates to your house already logged in.
classes, a gym membership, pottery or a
of mothers in your family with a family photo shoot.
Girls night in Hire your mumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite
The photos will last a lifetime and make for treasured
movies and have a movie marathon complete
memories in years to come.
with popcorn, champagne and maybe even a
A family photo shoot Capture the generations
An escape Send Mum away on a holiday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it could be
photography workshop.
slumber party sleepover.
a weekend away with the girls, husband or maybe a family trip.
Offspring | autumn 2012 27
Special Feature
Offspring asked three Perth mums to describe their ideal or best ever Mother’s Day... Deborah Boxall, mum to Stella
eight weeks with the Navy. I
(8 months old)
figured it would be a non-event,
My perfect Mother’s Day
save for a big hug and smooch
would be spent with both my
and some drawings from the
beautiful little girl Stella and
girls (and several trips to the
with my mum. It isn’t until
bathroom to be sick!).
you have a baby that you really
So it was lovely to be
understand and appreciate all
surprised with a beautiful
the things your mum has done for you over the years.
framed photo of my
My mum is fantastic and such an amazing Nanna to Stella,
princesses, plus a bracelet I
however she lives in Geraldton, so visits can be few and far
had seen months earlier that
between. So to spend my first Mother’s Day with her and
my eldest had remembered
Stella would be very special.
about. She also made
I might also have to put in an order for breakfast pikelets
cupcakes all by herself! I’m
– my husband’s specialty – and maybe a picnic lunch at the
very blessed to have parents who see me not only as
park... with cupcakes! I think that would be a great way to
their daughter, but as the mother of their granddaughters,
celebrate being a first-time mum.
and who took my girls shopping to get me something special at a time I was feeling extremely down. I’m very
Michelle Powell, mum to Maddison (9), Delaney (4),
lucky indeed!
Georgia (2) and Molly (6 months) Last Mother’s Day I was pregnant with hyperemesis (severe
Heather Lindgren, mum to
morning sickness), along with a husband who was away for
Hamish (5) and Angus (2) My ideal Mum’s Day would be waking up
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parenting
Modern Family structure, like society at large, has undergone significant change in recent years. While the nuclear family – with Mum, Dad and the kids happily living under one roof is still largely the ideal, variations in family composition are aplenty and work well. A few local families of various shapes and sizes share their own unique journeys into parenthood.
family The single parent
back to Perth and we were no longer
Annisa Sukada (33), retail manager,
in any kind of relationship. I didn’t
and Angelina (2)
expect him to want to be a part of our
I was seeing Angelina’s father while I
lives, as our relationship in Dubai was
was living in Dubai but by the time I
not serious and quite short lived. He
found out I was pregnant I had moved
surprised me however, when he spoke
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30 Offspring | autumn 2012
Compiled by Tara Dryland
• Extensive range of school and sports shoes
have no one to be upset with for not
you’re older, you develop a kind of
business and be a family.
“pulling their weight” or helping out.
shorthand to work out whether a new
While I was pregnant he lived
I work two days a week for a little
relationship is likely to go anywhere.
in his home country and was often
bit of balance and social activity,
We moved in together quickly and
hard to get in contact with. His
and I am so fortunate to have a very
within five months of meeting had
excuses and floundering about with
supportive family and friends who
started trying for a baby. I was 40 at the
visa applications and money raised
always help me out. My mum cares
time and after trying to conceive for
numerous red flags in my mind and
for Angie when I’m working and
six months with no luck, we decided to
it soon became apparent he wasn’t
occasionally when I need some “me”
undergo IVF.
prepared to be a father. Either way, I
time, and my sister has young kids
We both felt incredibly lucky that
was going to have my baby and was
who we often have play dates with.
we were given the opportunity to try
excited about becoming a parent.
I admit, it can be hard having very
IVF through public funding, but after
I love being able to have complete
parenting
of his plans to move to Australia, start a
little time to myself but it’s all worth
control of how Angie is raised.
it and I miss her terribly after a day
There are no arguments on how to
at work!
discipline or care for her, what school
I sometimes feel judged for being
she may go to and what activities she
a single parent but it doesn’t bother
is allowed to do. I know that she is 100
me. If anything, I feel it is a reflection
per cent my responsibility, and so I
of those who are judging, rather than my character. I am happy and Angie
I sometimes feel judged for being a single parent but it doesn’t bother me... I am happy and Angie is happy and much loved.
is happy and much loved. A positive family unit is one in which everyone is respected, supported and loved unconditionally. It doesn’t matter how big or small your unit is, the more you nurture it, the stronger it will be.
The older parents Mum (42), Dad (50) and Baby (6 months) We met on a blind-date three and a half years ago and tentatively discussed having children on date three; when
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Offspring | autumn 2012 31
parenting
four attempts we still had no joy. I
We both feel lucky having the
felt deep down there was something
opportunity to be parents later in
intrinsically wrong and so asked my
life and are both enjoying sharing
doctor for an examination to rule
equal responsibility.
out any physical issues that may
I do resent the notion in the
be preventing us from conceiving.
media that as an older Mum,
Luckily, they found nothing wrong
I have clearly ‘put my career
and I conceived naturally one month
above my child rearing years’.
later at the age of 41.
I have never been particularly
As an older parent who has
ambitious and have certainly
struggled to conceive, I definitely
never put anything on hold for
don’t take anything for granted. We
my career. Quite simply, I wasn’t
feel so grateful, that we really don’t
prepared to have a child with
sweat the small things. I think being
someone I wasn’t in love with.
older and having experienced life can
My experience has shown
help prevent that sense of ‘missing
me that it’s the love and support
out’ on things.
a child receives that ensures their
I’m fortunate to have a job where
happiness, regardless of whether that
The teen parent
Caitlyn Webb (24) nurse and Kobi (9)
I can freelance from home and so
involves one, or two, younger, or older,
I was a little out of control when I
relish in being able to maintain the
parents.
was a teenager. I wasn’t enjoying
work and family balance.
school and had a destructive attitude and behaviour. I ended up in a relationship with a guy from
I do resent the notion in the media that as an older Mum, I have clearly ‘put my career above my child rearing years’...I wasn’t prepared to have a child with someone I wasn’t in love with.
school and within nine months I was pregnant. I was only 15. I did consider all options but deep down I knew that bringing this child into the world was what I wanted. I absolutely loved being a mum. Playing with Kobi and watching him grow and learn was such an amazing experience.
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parenting
When Kobi turned three I started part-time work and also went to college part-time to finish my schooling. Upon completing high school, I started a five month, government-funded, Assistant in Nursing Training Program. The next two years were a juggle between shift work, part time study and being a mother. I am now a qualified and registered nurse. Kobi is a very adaptable child and is happy to just “go with the flow”. Whether he was with my mum or at daycare, he was always happy and sociable. I couldn’t have done any of it without the help of my family and my
incredible mother who has supported
and always felt guilty about having
my decision from day one.
to work on weekends and school
I think the best thing about being
The donor parent
Tania Martin (41), doctor, and Eliza (1)
holidays when Kobi’s friends would
Before I knew it, I was almost 40 and
a young mum is that I still have
have their mums at home, but I guess
“Mr Right” still hadn’t come along.
plenty of energy and I’ll also be young
those are the sacrifices you make. I
With the biological clock ticking, I had
enough to chase my dreams and live
don’t feel as though I have missed out
the choice to keep waiting for a man
my life once Kobi is a bit older. I did
on anything, I just love being a mum, I
and risk not having a child, or have a
lose a few friends when I was younger
don’t think my age changes that.
child on my own.
Offspring | autumn 2012 33
parenting
Initially, I decided to adopt and I began the long, protracted path to adoption. However, after a few
child using a donor and are a huge help on a practical level. Eliza’s father has been quite
months attending compulsory
involved and wants to be part of
workshops and seminars it became
her life. He’s very proud to have
clear that as a single woman in WA it
a daughter and all his friends
was probably never going to happen.
and family know about her. She
Plan B was to have a child using
will grow up knowing he is her
donor sperm. A work colleague offered
father and we call him Daddy.
to be the donor, and while he wasn’t a
I like that I get to make
close friend, we’d worked together for
all the decisions regarding
several years and I knew him quite well.
Eliza and there is no one to
Our agreement was that I would be the
disagree with in regards to
sole parent and he would not have any
parenting. It probably helps
financial responsibility or parental rights
that I chose to be a single
and he was happy to have as much or as
parent and didn’t go through
little contact with the child as I wanted.
a relationship break-up or
We did a home insemination and I got
bereavement to get here. I like being
pregnant the first month.
a single parent and I’ve just started
I gave birth to Eliza on Christmas Day 2010. The donor and his partner met Eliza the next morning and we caught
trying for a sibling for Eliza using the same donor. My motto while considering getting
The nulear family Greer (33), formerly in Human
Resources, now a stay at home mum,
up every few weeks until they moved to
a donor was “I’m never going to regret
Steve (36) construction manager,
Queensland at the end of last year.
having a baby but I’ll probably regret
Noah, (18 months) and Paige (1
it one day if I don’t”. The days of a
month) Roper
week when Eliza was eight months old.
man, woman and 2.2 kids have well
I have always wanted to be married
I do shift work so if it’s a weekday she
and truly passed. So long as children
and have kids. The timing for Steve
goes to day care and if it’s a weekend
are brought up in a secure and loving
and I couldn’t have been better. We
or evening shift my parents look after
environment, it doesn’t matter
have both been able to establish
her. My parents have been incredibly
whether they are raised by one father,
careers, travel, buy a house and then
supportive of my decision to have a
two mothers or a grandparent.
settle down when it was right for
I went back to work three days a
34 Offspring | autumn 2012
values remain very similar.
to support each other wherever
trying for kids straight away. It took
The best thing about having a
around 18 months to fall pregnant
nuclear family is that we are able to
with Noah who was born in July
provide our children with a stable
the moment is what little time we
2010. We were lucky enough to fall
environment to grow and learn and
had for ourselves with one child
pregnant quickly with Paige who was
hopefully the right balance of life
has now completely gone but we
born in December 2011.
skills from both Mum and Dad. In
definitely work as a team. Steve
possible. The biggest challenge we face at
the immediate future whilst our
cares for Noah if he wakes during
“nuclear family”, whereas I have
kids are young and especially as
the night and I look after Paige and
grown up with step-parents and
they are spaced so close together
her needs. It’s great having that
step-siblings. So we have had very
we are lucky to be able to share
constant support.
different experiences but our family
our responsibilities and workloads
Steve comes from the traditional
parenting
us. We married in 2008 and starting
Steve and I would love to expand our family and knowing we have a strong foundation of support from
The biggest challenge we face at the moment is what little time we had for ourselves with one child has now completely gone but we definitely work as a team... It’s great having that constant support.
both each other and our families is satisfying. No matter which kind of structure your family has, support is really the main thing. We’re really lucky to have each other, but as long as everyone works as a team and there is plenty of love in a family, the combination really doesn’t matter.
Offspring | autumn 2012 35
INTERNET PICKS
Our internet picks SHOPPING online is fun and convenient. Now there is fantastic range of fashion items and great buys for the family. However, looking for good-quality sites can be overwhelming with such a large number from which to choose. Finding your way around can be daunting! We’ve provided a few good Australian sites, including a couple from WA, which offer a great range of stylish, beautiful and practical items to help point you in the right direction.
www.crochetbambini.com.au
Crochet Bambini offers a beautiful collection of handmade products for newborn to 3 years, designed by a Perth-based WAHM. The range celebrates the traditional craft of crochet, but with a contemporary and unique twist! All products are handmade using 100% natural fibres. • Clothing • Soft Toys • Blankets • Shoes • Bath mitts Visit our online store to experience the full range! Join us on Facebook to receive updates. We display at various Perth markets during the year. Contact: info@crochetbambini.com.au or 0448 892 730.
www.avidiva.com.au
FREE Avidiva is the home SHIPPING of handmade, ecoAustralia friendly and organic wide baby products. Avidiva offers a wide variety of products including organic skin care, bed linen, blankets and wraps, BPA free and Glass baby bottles and sippy cups, a beautiful range of bamboo clothing and so much more. All products must meet Avidiva’s high quality standards and all items are trialled before they make it into the store. You can expect high quality personal service from this Perth-based family business. Contact: 0404 592 991 info@avidiva.com.au
www.australianbabysupplies.com.au Australian Baby Supplies offers a variety of cute products for babies and toddlers. Based in Perth we can also provide advice on all aspects of cloth nappy usage. Visit our site for • Modern cloth nappies • Toilet training aids • Handmade bibs • Soft soled baby shoes • Clothes and more...
Offspring readers can receive FREE Postage on all orders using the code offspring at checkout.
36 Offspring | autumn 2012
INTERNET PICKS
www.facebook.com/ DinkieDooNFriends
In Dinkie Doo & Friends you will find unique adorable and affordable clothes and accessories for both children and adults. Their range includes pettirompers, pettiskirts, pettibloomers, hair bands, pendant and bangle teething jewellery, car pillows and other useful items.
To view their full range please visit their
page.
www.lbtkids.com.au
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Shorties and Sweeties sells Hooligans Kids Clothing – adorable, funky and vibrant clothing for your little hooligan! It comes in sizes from newborn to 7 years old. It is made in South Africa from 100% cotton. It is 100% Fair Trade certified. It is 100% fun! So come on, join the Hooligans Adventure! It is Africa with an attitude! For more information please visit our website or e-mail lorraine@shortiesandsweeties.com.au. Wholesale enquiries welcome.
Offspring | autumn 2012 37
The Great Pram Push By Rebecca Martin
I
t started over post-natal crunches. Getting back in shape after baby number one, we were chewing the fat over the benefits of post-baby exercise. Mums with bubs, the trainer said, were a hard market to crack, even though just a walk with the pram was enough to get the benefits. How funny would it be, I said, to have a walk and fun-run where absolutely everyone had to push a pram? This year will mark the third outing for the Newmont Great Pram Push. Our small band of volunteers have come a long way, squeezing planning meetings around the kitchen table between kids, work and spouses. Why do it? Well, It’s such a good idea. A special walk and run for pram pushers is simple, makes sense, and weirdly, considering the size of the demographic, is the only one of its kind in Australia. Plus we’re genuine believers that exercise – gentle or at pace – is good for body, mind, soul and child. There’s also the rush from fundraising. Laden with words that are every parent’s nightmare, The
Z009 - 38 Offspring Ad 91 x 130 |AW.indd 1 Offspring autumn
2012
Children’s Leukaemia and Cancer Research Foundation is an incredible WA charity. Plus there’s Ngala, who answer all those desperate sleep-deprived calls. It’s nice to give something back. This year we hope to raise more than $20,000 to divide between the two. We might just get there. Along with Newmont Asia Pacific we’ve added Channel 9 and the Community Newspaper Group as our major sponsors along with many other businesses who help us out. However it’s the participants who do the lion’s share of the fundraising and fun-making. From the start, dads made it clear they wanted in too. Last year, we also welcomed our first grandparent, plus a six year old over the line. Walk or run, they come, have a buzz and give the whole day such a lovely vibe that we all keep signing up to do it again. There’s also perverse fun in turning the pram into a force for good. Often cursed, as it’s wrangled in and out of the car, dodging people on sidewalks, on the morning of Sunday April 15, your pram is your exclusive pass to take part in what is a fun and easy morning out. Join us and bring your pram. Fremantle Esplanade, Sunday April 15, from 8.00am. For more info visit www.great prampush2012.gofundraise. com.au or email info@greatprampush.com.au
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Pregnancy & Birth
Real Life By Brooke Evans-Butler
Our regular contributing writer, Brooke Evans-Butler, shares with Offspring Magazine her step-bystep account of the lead up to the arrival of her new baby.
A
s very proud parents of a delightful two year old boy, Caleb, my husband Paul and I were thrilled to discover we
were having another bundle of joy. Share our pregnancy story!
Week 6: We are having another baby! I am so surprised and delighted. I have wanted another baby since the second I irregular cycle, I decided to buy some ovulation tests. I think I nearly fall over when I realise the positive ovulation test I did was actually the pregnancy test that was included in the box. I have no idea of even an approximate due date, so Paul and I race to the chemist to buy a digital test with a conception indicator. It says I am more than four weeks. Wow!
Week 7: I am starting to feel pregnant today. I feel queasy, can smell a packet of lollies from the other side of the room and I burst into tears when I watch health insurance advertisements.
Week 8: We had our first obstetrician appointment, our due date is January 23rd. It was so wonderful seeing the baby on the ultrasound â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our obstetrician pointed out that you could already see the fingers and toes.
40 Offspring | autumn 2012
PHOTO: THE SAILOR AND THE BUTTERFLY BOUTIQUE PHOTOGRAPHY
first held my little boy, Caleb, who is now nearly two. With an
Pregnancy & Birth
ncy makes w tired pregna ho st ju ot rg Week 9: I fo a toddler to when you have so e or m n ve who is on the go you (e ually someone us n I’m !). nd ou afternoon whe chase ar sleeping in the en be e I’v t bu constantly, Caleb sleeps. news now everyone our ld to ve ha e d ones. Week 10: W ons of our love ti ac re e th by d cited than my and were thrille uld be more ex co ne yo an k in ready started I do not th her, she has al e se I e m ti xt s! I really mum. The ne pinks and blue – s he ot cl by shopping for ba isex. r to only buy un need to tell he tes when I was stational diabe ge d y ha I : 1 1 careful with m Week I’m being very so b le it Ca t h it gh w ou pregnant pregnancy. I th start with this e th t tooth but om ee fr sw t a ie d lly quite ua us I’m as t ul nscious. would be diffic very health co be to sy ea it ing so far I’m find all the results eek scan and w 12 y m d ha I ke – there Week 12: said ‘Well Broo r to oc d he T were perfect. re know how to you, but you su of h uc m be t may no ws.. bies’ Great ne make healthy ba
Offspring | autumn 2012 41
Pregnancy & Birth
Week 13: I feel like I consta ntly
have bubbles popping in my stomach - early str etching perhaps?
Week 14: I had my 14 week check up today. Everything is going beauti fully, and our obstetricia n told us the baby weighs as much as an egg!
Week 15: I think I might be catchi
ng my little boy’s cold. I go to the chemist and am given cold and flu medicine for Caleb and Paul. Then the chemist turns to me: ‘And you can have saline nasal spray.’ Fanta stic.
Week 16: The nasal spray does
nothing and it turns out I have a chest infection . The doctor looked hes itant to give me antibiotics unt il I had a coughing fit and ma de a dive for the tissue box on his desk to throw up. I have never seen a script get pri nted so quickly!
Week 17: I am feeling so mu ch bet
ter, but so much for my health conscious streak . I suddenly want milk and chocolate all the time. I cou ld drink Milo all day long!
Week 18: We have a coup le of bea
utiful girl names on our list but we canno t decide on any boy name s. This is so difficult…we are thinking we might fin d out the sex just so we can fin d out if we have to keep worrying about choosing a boy’s name.
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42 Offspring | autumn 2012
Week 19: I heard about a baby store that was having a closing down sale so I decided to go and have a quick look. Thank goodness I did; I bought a car seat, bassinet and bouncer! I feel like I have crossed all the big things off my list in a short 30 minute shopping trip.
Week 20: Our 20 week ultrasound was today and we decided to keep the baby’s sex as a surprise. It amazed me how different the ultrasound looked to Caleb’s. With Caleb’s ultrasound you could see his chubby cheeks, and how much he was going to look like my husband (I was sure we were going to have a boy). This baby looks so delicate with fine features. My mum says the baby looks a lot like me when I was little…I wonder if it’s a girl – or a boy that looks like me!
Week 21: We go to the obstetrician and everything still looks great. He recommends I have another c-section, so I am booked for January 17 (I will be 39 weeks). Wow, having a set date makes it seem so soon!
Week 22: Paul felt the baby move for the first time last night. Most movements feel like the baby is stretching, but these kicks were very strong.
Week 23: We have finished Caleb’s new room in time for his second birthday. He is still sleeping in his old room in the cot but I have moved the rest of his things out. Now it’s time to clean up the nursery so it is spick and span for the new baby.
Week 24: I realised that even if we do have another boy I will not be able to use Caleb’s old baby clothes as it was cold when he was born and this baby is due in mid-summer. I go and buy a few unisex short-sleeve outfits so the baby has something to wear for the first few days. They are so tiny!
Pregnancy & Birth
s (aka nancy aqua aerobic ss). Th beached whale cla t in the water. body when you ge ur yo f of d te lif t weigh are you ionist says ‘What pt ce re e th up rn ths old?’ When I tu baby only six mon ur yo ’t Isn ? re he doing back d fell over, to wash the floor an ed cid de I : 6 2 k Wee I didn’t land . Thank goodness ist wr my on ng di crash-lan and blue and my t my hand is black near my stomach, bu op myself falling. where I tried to st om fr re so so is m ar ant to live in clean women are not me nt na eg Pr n? so les The juice on freshly two year old spills a en wh lly cia pe es houses… . nutes later. I give up washed floor five mi teers for Wanted ad for volun a e tic no I 7: 2 k Wee ess, so I rasound photo busin ult 4D a g tin ar st e bub. Bub is someon t another glimpse of ge lly fu pe ho to em ce shots. contact th end we get a few fa e th at ht rig t bu not cooperative strong to keep e sex again but stay th t ou ab k as ly ar he or she I ne n so much and I think ow gr s ha b Bu e. ris an. A little the surp an at the 20 week sc th leb Ca e lik re mo looks much ain about deciding tter start nagging ag brother perhaps? Be t in case. on a boy’s name jus this week. l diabetes test is na io at st ge y M : 8 d it has Week 2 gar periodically an su od blo y m ing I’ve been test result. I hope it’s a good never been high so
eg Week 25: I start pr ere is nothing like feeling the
Offspring | autumn 2012 43
Pregnancy & Birth
es! I am so
gestational diabet
Week 34: It’s the week before Christmas and I am
ve Week 29: I don’t ha back clear and that everything came happy the results ing perfectly. with the baby is go
so grateful that I spread my Christmas shopping out
night. He was the baby kick last lt fe leb Ca : 0 3 Week the baby kicking e and I could feel cuddling next to m leb looked at me on my stomach. Ca nd ha his t pu I so p, feeling his own he lifted up his to en th t, en em az in am . So, so cute. stomach for kicks up (two d nausea are firing an ps am cr g Le : Week 31 last pregnancy). rienced during my r things I never expe cramps and ginge tonic water for leg on up g kin oc st I’m ope it works. ale for nausea. H t go away – tburn and it will no ar he ve ha I : 2 3 Week Tingles and that helps is Fruit ng di fin am I ing the only th them. am actually eating that is only while I swollen up after et and fingers have fe y M : 3 3 k ee W e pair of shoes I can only fit into on . ys da t ho of s a serie I am fine as I ctor and he said do y m th wi d ke ec in the face. now. I ch sure or puffiness es pr od blo h hig don’t have f and I am trying to get my rings of ed ag an m I d gla am I A friend drops often as possible. as et fe y m te va to ele ’Wow! I’ve never et in amazement. fe y m at es ar st by and are huge!’ les before – they actually seen cank
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44 Offspring | autumn 2012
throughout the year and did the bulk of it online. I couldn’t imagine trying to negotiate the shops, especially when my feet are still so swollen.
Week 35: Christmas was wonderful and I’m so glad the weather was pleasant. I told Paul I didn’t want any presents as I’m sure I will want some new pairs of shoes or maternity bras once bub is here.
Week 36: How can my feet possibly get any bigger? They are not cankles – they are tree trunks. They must look bad…whenever I sit down Caleb lifts my feet up onto the lounge and starts rubbing them.
Week 37: I realise how close I am to having the baby, so start cooking some meals to freeze for the boys during my hospital stay. Unfortunately the sausage rolls I make are too tempting and we eat them all, so I’ll have to make some more.
Week 38: I cannot believe I will be holding a new baby in my arms next week. It is like being a child waiting for
Pregnancy & Birth
Christmas morning, but at the same time I am really nervous about being away from Caleb. We finally have a couple of boy name options so I guess we will make that final decision when we find out if we have a little boy or a girl.
Week 39: Three days before my c-section PHOTO: THE SAILOR AND THE BUTTERFLY BOUTIQUE PHOTOGRAPHY
date and I suddenly feel sick with bad back pains... please, no. I call Mum and Dad just in case we have to drop Caleb off to their house a few days early; and then spend the next hour Googling ‘fake versus real labour signs’. Thankfully the pains go away and I spend the rest of the weekend relaxing with my boys.
The big day… The big day is finally here! Paul and I wake up bright and early to get to the hospital by 6am (we had dropped Caleb off at my parents’
we had….a little boy! Jonah Raymond weighed 3.5
the night before). As I get prepped for surgery I have a
kilograms and was 50 centimetres long. He looks like a
moment of thinking ‘I do not want to do this again! Can we
smaller version of his big brother, but with dark hair. He
talk about the stork or cabbage patch deliveries please?’
is perfect! Mum and Dad bring Caleb to the hospital to
Luckily, things go very smoothly and the next thing I
meet Jonah a few hours later, and he is smitten with his
know I hear an almighty cry. The paediatrician carried
little brother. I cannot wait to get home and start my new
this tiny bundle to Paul and I and told us to look at what
adventure as a mum of two!
Offspring | autumn 2012 45
OUR darlings
Snapshots supplied by our readers!
Please send high resolution, good quality images and captions for publication to editorial@offspringmagazine.com.au Subject: Our Darlings
Finlay (4) of Padbury
Isla (8 mths) of Clarkson
Grace (20 mths) of Midland. Photo courtesy of Bella Vie PHOTOGRAPHY
Lochlan Michael Starmer (2 months) &amp; Braiden Isaac Starmer (3 years) of Henley Brook
Jazzlyn (3) of Glen Forrest
Jemma (9) of Cottesloe at Coral Bay
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Offspring | autumn 2012 47
FUNNY MUMMY with Ari Chávez
LAUNDRY DAZE Just like the Magic Sack of Potatoes, Ari shares this all-too-common battle of getting to the bottom of the laundry pile.
O
h my Sweet Aunt Nelly, the friggin’ laundry. How does it keep growing, like
some sort of weed, across every single surface of
lists that are useful and stick meal plans in the kitchen,
the house?
so everyone knows that Tuesday’s dinner is meatloaf and
How?
mashed spuds, too-bad-if-you-don’t-like-it-it’s-there-on-
There are people who have spare rooms to fling baskets
the-fridge. They have accoutrements – coloured pens to fill
of laundry in, before they somersault off to Bungee
out the Family Calendar and strawberry-shaped sponges –
Jumping. Sometimes they have a spare bed in the spare
to make domesticity, if not fun, then pretty enough.
room, upon which to arrange wicker baskets of clothes
There’s one woman who is both a Domestic Goddess
until they have the inclination to deal
and an Internet Sensation. In the great tradition of
with them.
Internet Sensations that got in first with a Good Idea, she’s
I wish I was one of them.
probably also very rich. She may even be a gazillionaire.
We don’t have such a room, but we do have a house.
I’m not saying that she hires in Domestic Goddess type
A whole house. This may be a mistake. There are a lot of
help, but if you’re feeling fragile about your own domestic
baskets of clean clothes placed decoratively in corners and
abilities it’s a possibility worth considering.
on tables and chairs. For special occasions, we may place
This woman’s name is FlyLady, and that is the God
a basket upon a basket, and another basket on top of that.
honest truth. I don’t know why. Maybe her parents were
It’s unique. Pisa-esque.
just mean. FlyLady has a website about getting organised
Some of this laundry has been folded, in a half-hearted stab at order. In the right frame of mind, you could view it as an art installation – ‘The Undomesticated Life; A Study’. If you’re late for work, however, and looking for a clean shirt that’s made of plastic so you don’t have to iron it, it’s teethgrittingly annoying having to rummage through it all, knowing you’ll just have to refold everything in a couple of years. There are people, women mostly, who specialise in being organised. I wish I was one of them, too. They make
48 Offspring | autumn 2012
on the domestic front and, frankly, it’s exhausting. There are a lot of habits to be getting on with that don’t involve
lying down to watch The Wiggles with your eyes closed.
laundromat for eighteen hours and do all your washing
This month’s habit, for example, is to shine your sink
there. Even if you’ve got a washing machine in the very
every day. That’s every day for a whole month, in case
next room. There is probably a good reason for this. To help
you’re wondering. Shine, shine, shine, shine, shine, shine,
with the coinage for the laundromat, you’re to dive behind
shine. Apparently, when your shiny sink greets you in the
the cushions on your couch and search for gold coins, without getting distracted by the slice
morning, ‘a smile will come across your lovely face’. I don’t know about you, but my face isn’t that lovely in the morning because my son starts bouncing off the walls at 5.30am, and expects us to go and bounce with him. There’s a lot of yelling that accompanies that bouncy expectation of his. Rather too much yelling, in my
“This way you won’t have piles of shirts on your dinner table, or clean sheets sitting like snow drifts on your sofa.”
of vegemite toast your child shoved there a fortnight ago. It’s called focus. I know. I’d never heard of it either. After you’ve spent eighteen hours at the laundromat, you’re supposed to dry all your laundry and fold it and put it away. This way you won’t have piles of shirts on your dinner table, or clean sheets sitting like snow
opinion.
drifts on your sofa. The whole idea is
On the subject of laundry, FlyLady talks about tackling Mount Washmore, which is basically
to enjoy a meal in peace and then collapse on the couch
like climbing Everest except your mountain is made of
without dumping your snow drifts on the floor (which
jeans and onesies, and cloth nappies if you’re that way
would mean washing them again the next day because the
inclined. You have to round up all your clothes – even
damn things got themselves dirty just lying there). FlyLady
the ones that are hanging off the treadmill – and stuff
even said something about relaxing.
them into garbage bags so you can trek off to the local
I know, right? Relaxing. How crazy is that?
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Offspring | autumn 2012 49
crafty critters Babies
Hop to it...
Easter 1. Hold 2 plates together and cut out a crescent shape to make the bunny ears.
by Miya Maeda For more fun projects and crafty tips visit jellyfishjelly.com
Easter Bunny Bag
2. Staple the ears to the top of the complete plate. Make sure the back of the round plate is facing outwards.
3. Add features to the rabbit face. These can include pink paper for the ears, a pink pom pom for the nose, cotton wool under the nose, pink chalk rubbing for the cheeks and black marker for the eyes and teeth.
4. Use one of the offcuts from the ears and staple it, facing inwards, to the back of the bunny face.
5. Attach string to the sides of the bag for a handle. Use the pocket at the back to store your Easter treats.
A quick and easy Easter Bunny face that doubles as a bag to store your eggs. Suits ages 2 and up. Crafting time ½ hour. You will need: ❏ Scissors ❏ 3 x paper plates ❏ Stapler ❏ Cotton wool ❏ Ribbon or string ❏ Items to decorate the face
Play and learn at UWA We also offer a choir as well as individual violin and piano lessons. Email: junior-music@uwa.edu.au Telephone: 6488 7985 Online enrolments for Semester 2 open in late May. Visit music.uwa. edu.au/community/junior.
50 Offspring | autumn 2012
CRICOS Provider Code 00126G
Junior Music School at The University of Western Australia offers small group lessons that capture the imagination of children aged 18 months to 12 years.
Crafting time ½ hour. Suitable for ages 3 and up. You will need:
❏ paper plate ❏ scissors ❏ stapler ❏ pipe cleaners or card strip
Easter Bunny Biscuits Decorated Milk Arrowroot biscuits are an easy treat and conveniently egg shaped! Crafting time ½ hour.
crafty critters Babies
Paper Plate Easter Baskets
You will need: ❏ Milk Arrowroot Biscuits ❏ White frosting e.g. Betty Crocker or Hines ❏ Fizzers ❏ Marshmallows ❏ Black Writing Icing ❏ Pink sprinkles ❏ Pink jellybeans
1. Begin by cutting 8 slits into the side (towards the centre) of the plate.
2. Fold each of the flaps into the centre of the plate.
1. Cut the marshmallow in half and dip the sticky sides into the pink sprinkles. Add Fizzers for eyes and half a pink jellybean for a nose. Add features with the writing icing.
Easter Egg Biscuits You will need:
❏ Milk Arrowroot Biscuits ❏ White frosting e.g Betty Crocker or Hines (add food colouring for coloured frosting)
❏ Sour Straps ❏ Mini M&M’s
3. Slightly overlap one flap over another and staple. Attach a pipe cleaner or card strip for a handle.
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Offspring | autumn 2012 51
Early Childhood Babies
Toddlers brain matters By Kim Johnson, Ngala Parent Education Team
C
ontrary to common belief that young children do not have memories until they are at least three,
researchers have discovered that children have memories as early as in the womb. Although preverbal children are not able to express a memory recall, memories are evident in how they recognise significant people and how they become familiar with the daily routines in their lives. For the first 18 months, children encode implicit memories which are formed through both the senses and repetitive experiences. These can range from the sounds and smells of their home and parents, the warm feeling of being cuddled and the pleasant sensations and taste of warm milk. Implicit memories encode our earliest forms of learning about the world. They directly shape our here and now
52 Offspring | autumn 2012
Concepts such as in and out, dry and wet, soft and hard,
events. But implicit memories can be negative as well, like
over and under, are abstract ideas for toddlers. They learn
when we’ve repeatedly had the opposite experience of our
these concepts when adults show them what up and down
parents being irritated by or ignoring our times of distress.
the stairs means, when they experience the hard floor,
Even though we’re not aware of their origins in the past, implicit memories can create fear, avoidance, sadness, and
cuddle a soft teddy, etc and so on. As the effectiveness of a child’s memory progresses
other painful emotions and bodily sensations even into
further, they can return to the activity they were doing
adulthood. Children will remember the strange sensation
even if they were interrupted. This is because they now not
of parental bodies stiffening in certain situations where
only remember what they were doing, but also the stage
there are loud and angry sounds.
they had reached before they were interrupted.
By age two, children will make great progress as
As the brain continues to mature, three year olds are
their language skills develop and enable them to gather
now beginning to grasp the concept of simple number
and express information in ways other than physical
sequence and different categories. They may start
exploration alone.
counting: “I have five fingers”, for example. They are
In their second year, they develop the ability to
learning the concept of categorisation. Five people in the
recall explicit memories or autobiographical memories
family in total: two adults (mum and dad), one girl (sister),
(factual and episodic). Explicit memories are the
one boy (brother) and one me!
memories to which we have given meaning, narrative
As their language skills continue to improve, memory
and understanding. This occurs as they acquire greater
and observation skills also improve. They now are able
language and understanding.
to provide an amazing amount of details about their
The continued development of their memory, together with improving language skills, means that children are
Early Childhood Babies
experiences without clues to their origins from past
experiences with their enhanced vocabulary. Various parts of the brain need to work together in
beginning to form mental images of how things happen,
memory and learning. The hippocampus is involved in
which leads to understanding of concepts.
memory forming, organising and storing. It is a structure
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Offspring | autumn 2012 53
Early Childhood Babies
This can only happen when the frontal cortex is maturing. From 18 months onwards, the front part of the frontal regions of the brain – an area called the prefrontal cortex – will mature enough to enable the beginning of autobiographical recall. That is why children aged two to three years are able to recall and verbalise details from events in their lives. How can parents help? Toddlers need adults to make sense of what they are experiencing and feeling. When parents help them to put words to their feelings, they are actually helping the child turn implicit memories to explicit memories and this process actually integrates different areas of the brain in language development, memory encoding and storage for future use. Speaking with children about their feelings helps them develop emotional intelligence, which can help them understand their own and other people’s feelings more fully. that is particularly important in forming new memories
Ngala has developed a Building Young Children’s
and connecting emotions and senses, such as smell and
Brains DVD for families and professionals which will
sound, to memories. The hippocampus acts as a memory
be released in March 2012. Ngala also holds regular
sorting station by sending memories out to the appropriate
parenting workshops, ‘Building Brains’, for parents of
part of the cerebral hemisphere for long term storage and
children aged 0-5yrs. To book places please visit the Ngala
retrieving them when necessary.
website www.ngala.com.au
54 Offspring | autumn 2012
TALENT TIME
Special Feature
Young
By Tara Dryland
M
ost kids are little show-offs at heart. Whether it’s singing the latest pop songs into a hairbrush,
dressing up in Mum’s clothes and pretending to be a movie star or rockin’ out with Dad’s guitar – all children love the attention. Getting your child involved with a performing arts discipline can be a great way to channel their boundless energy, unleash their talent and help them to develop many important attributes.
• Developing creativity Imaginative play stimulates and challenges the brain, and allows children to be innovative and broad-minded.
• Developing confidence Strategies that help your child get up in front of an audience and present an idea are extraordinarily valuable and can be a wonderful asset to them.
• Promoting self-discipline and self-motivation Because all performing arts are physical and individual, similar to sports and athletics, achievements are also gained from practicing at home and scheduling personal training.
• Exposed to art and culture The impact of a cultural and artistic education is lifelong, and adds enjoyment and depth to both personal lives and professional work as adults.
• Overcoming anxieties The triumph of ‘going out on stage’, performing a rehearsed piece successfully, and receiving feedback afterwards, provides children with a sense of control and power. It can also help to encourage them to aim higher and achieve greater goals in future endeavours.
• Learning memory skills Performing arts help children to absorb and retain information – a very important life skill to learn whilst young.
• Problem-solving Dealing with unexpected situations is a wonderful skill gained from performing arts classes, where creative challenges are set, and problems encountered onstage are overcome if things go wrong or are forgotten.
• Social interaction and cooperation Performing arts classes promote working as a team while also encouraging and developing individual talent.
Offspring | autumn 2012 55
Special Feature
“The arts offer children and young people unique and
Allanah Lucas says performing arts is a profound and
transforming experiences that have the ability to develop their own
important part of any child’s education, and the skills
creativity, as well as enable them to learn how to analyse, interpret
learned and experience gained in taking drama classes,
and critique the changing world around them. In addition,
having singing lessons or joining a dance school will affect
participation in, and access to the arts, has a tremendous impact
and improve a child’s abilities in many areas of their life.
on the developmental growth of children and helps to level the ‘learning playing field’ across socio-economic boundaries.” Allanah Lucas, Director General, Department of Culture
We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you choose the performing art that best suits your child.
and the Arts.
DANCE Children love to move, stretch and jump, and dance will introduce new ways of moving in entertaining and constructive ways. As well as promoting discipline, co-ordination, memory, flexibility, grace and stamina, signing your child up for dance classes will help them to express themselves through movement. Most centres offer classes to children from two years and above. Ballet – a form of artistic dance to classical music using precise and formalised steps. The most graceful style of dance, it requires a high level of commitment. Hip-hop – usually danced to popular music and taken from a variety of cultures including Latino, jazz and rock. Hip-hop is an energetic dance style that allows dancers to express their personality. Jazz – one of the most popular styles of dance, Jazz is a fun style consisting of unique moves, fancy footwork, big leaps and quick turns. Performers can showcase their individual style and originality. Creative – Perfect for toddlers, there is no right or wrong way of moving in creative dance. The goal is to communicate through music and movement and the Visit www.kidzparadise.com.au or Facebook for more activities through March, April & May.
dancer can do this however they choose.
CIRCUS Circus skills are a great way to be active and be silly! Nicole Warren from The Circus School of WA says circus encompasses many unique and fun skills including juggling, hula hoops, Diablo, handstands, flexibility, unicycle, acrobatics, stilt walking, human pyramids,
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comedy character development and core strength development. “We encourage all students to go at their own pace,” she says, “it’s a really nurturing and noncompetitive environment”. The continuous movement required by circus skills ensures it is beneficial to good health. As well as improving children’s balance, concentration, throwing and
56 Offspring | autumn 2012
supportive learning environment. Visit http://waytco.wordpress.com/classes for more information.
Special Feature
while allowing them to develop at their own pace in a warm
SINGING As well as simple entertainment, learning to sing and enjoying music provides important language and communication skills for your child. Along with learning about catching, reflexes, rhythm and dexterity, circus skills will also teach your child patience and perseverance. Classes
tone, beat and rhythm, your child will also develop physical abilities as they feel and move along to the music. Choirs – an organised group of
are offered to children from as young as three. A perfect activity
singers, choirs allow children to
for the curious and quirky!
learn vocal and breath control techniques, and will teach them to
DRAMA
read basic music notation. Most choirs incorporate movement activities into
Drama is an art form that allows
each rehearsal, allowing children to work
children to explore and express their
together and make new friends. A choir
feelings through acting and role-play.
is an excellent opportunity for children to be
Most drama classes for children combine elements of creative drama, improvisation, creative movement and storytelling. Children develop the foundation skills needed in theatre arts
part of an ensemble and continue their musical and cultural development. Solo – perhaps your child may benefit from singing alone. Learning to sing is a great skill for children to have. It’s a way for
that can also have positive effects on their literacy development,
them to express themselves. It can help ease stresses in their
academic success, confidence and social interaction.
life and gives them a boost of confidence in their own ability.
The Western Australian Youth Theatre Company holds regular Sunday afternoon courses in ensemble theatre
MUSIC LESSONS
that are versatile and can cater to different learning styles and age groups. Teachers will encourage verbal dynamics,
Most performing arts will
language development, dialogue development and play-
encompass some form
writing. The programs allow participants to develop their
of music but, generally
creative nature and strengthen their performing arts skills,
speaking, a child will not be capable of formal music
Music fun at Jo Jingles Jo Jingles is a Music and Movement class for babies and children aged 3 mths to 5 yrs. Classes involve singing nursery rhymes, dance, moving to music and playing percussion instruments, all while having fun with their friendly character Jo. It has long been recognised that interactive music participation can help build a child’s confidence as well as develop skills such as listening, maths and reading. Contact Tara 9404 7969/0422 036 626 or tara@ jojinglesperth.com.au for classes in the Northern suburbs.
lessons until they have some reading skills at around age five. The list is endless – piano, guitar, violin, the drums. All lessons are beneficial and encourage dedication and discipline while allowing your child to think creatively. Joining a band or an orchestra is a great way to get involved. The West Australian Youth Jazz Orchestra has recently joined forces with Healthway, promoting the “Act-Belong-Commit” message, to present four concerts for schools in 2012. These concerts aim to encourage children to become involved with music, stay mentally active and be part of the community, whilst learning the importance of commitment. Visit http://site.wayjo.com/ to find a concert near you.
Offspring | autumn 2012 57
Special Feature
Dance in a fun and relaxed environment
FUN, INTERACTIVE MUSIC WITH YAMAHA
Michelle Babicci School of Dance has been successfully serving the community since 1990. It helps students develop a variety of dance skills in a caring and non-competitive environment that enables them each to discover their own creativity. Each student is special in their own way and the school encourages them to have an appreciation for one another and their Godgiven talents. Classes are for 3yo to adults, intellectually disabled, primary school students and teens (beginners to advanced), at The Uniting Church Hall, 35 Pangbourne Street, Wembley. Contact Michelle on 9243 6946 or www.michellebabiccischoolofdance.com.au
Yamaha Music Education offers group keyboard classes for children aged between 3½ and 8½. Their courses provide your child with a fun and interactive musical experience. The progressive courses explore music through hearing, singing, reading and keyboard performance. Music Wonderland classes for 3½ to 4½ year olds are designed to educate and foster a musical ear at an early age. Children will gain the foundational music skills for the Junior Music course, which focuses on developing aural and keyboard skills to the optimum. The best way to understand the Yamaha teaching method is to come along to a Free Information Session. You and your child participate in a sample lesson and will have the opportunity to talk with our teachers about the benefits of learning in a small group class. They run free Information Sessions throughout the year. Visit their website for dates and times. yamahamusicschool.com.au or 1300 139 506
Offspri n 2 specia g Term any firs l – Try for only t class $5.00!
“CREATING CONFIDENCE” – It’s your time to SHINE! A new Exciting Drama, Dance, Performance and Fitness Studio Opening in 2012!
olds 18 mths t0 5 yr ppers Tiny Showsto e, Drama & Danc Tap & Acro-stars, Jazz
5 years and ov er Drama, Hiphop -Starz, Breakdancing, Acro -star Musical Theatre s, Jazz, Tap, , Singstars & Adult Jazz/Zum ba Fitness
Enquiries to Sabrina: tinyshow@tpgi.com.au or PH: 0414 801 733 Unit 1, 33 Hammond Rd COCKBURN CENTRAL
www.sabrinasshowstoppers.com.au
58 Offspring | autumn 2012
Classes for children aged 3½ to 8½
KINDY DRAMA FOR 3-5 YEAR OLDS
Sabrinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Showstoppers is a unique Drama, Dance, Performance and Fitness school that offers classes in a range of genres for students aged 18 months to adult, with a strong focus on the Under fives age group. Their NEW well-equipped studio in Cockburn Central opened in February 2012, and has a very welcoming atmosphere. Sabrina and her team of qualified and industry experienced teachers will help your child grow in confidence, learn new skills and bring out natural performers! For more information please contact Sabrina 0414 801 733, tinyshow@tpgi.com.au or visit www.sabrinasshowstoppers.com.au.
Fun-filled Kindy Drama classes are run by the Helen Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Grady Drama Academy, which has been running after-school programmes for 5-17 year olds for over 30 years! After many requests, the Kindy programme was started five years ago for 3-5 year olds and is held weekly in the Northern and Western suburbs of Perth, during the day, after school and on Saturday mornings. Classes are very popular and places fill fast! The self development program aims to give preschoolers confidence, verbal skills and self esteem. Each week classes include dramatic play, creative movement, story telling, songs, language skills and lots more! Weekly classes are also held for 5-17 year olds throughout Perth, so there is sure to be a class near you. To enrol now, call Principal, Helen Davey, on 9242 4722, or email Helen.Davey@helenogrady.net.au
Ph: 9402 8744
Special Feature
Showstopper FUN with Sabrina
Ph: 9242 4722
Offspring | autumn 2012 59
Special Feature
New dancewear with HeavenLee
Music leads to learning
Do you want your little dancer to feel like a princess? HeavenLee Creations has a gorgeous new range of dancewear full of sparkles, ruffles and fun. Choose from leotards, tops, shorts, pants and skirts, in sizes 2 to 12 (or infant to adult). Each piece is handmade in Perth by owner, Lee-Anne Stillitano, so you can pick your studio colours or view their bright individual styles at many Perth markets. Prices start from $20 and combo packages are available. Visit www.heavenleecreations.com.au for details.
Music brings joy to everyone whatever their age. It can help express emotions that are too complicated for words. It is accepted that listening to and playing music has a beneficial effect on cognitive development. Studies show that music helps integrate body and mind, leading to improved outcomes in reading, writing and mathematics. Movement to music helps develop spatial awareness – and all of this while having fun! The University of Western Australia has a well-structured music program for children from 18 months to 12 years of age, and a choir for children from 9 to 14 years of age. Children are given the opportunity to sing, play games, and listen to music, all of which enhances their confidence and learning abilities. Parents also enjoy playing along and singing, and a pleasant bonding experience is created that lasts much longer than the duration of the class. Whether or not you are a member of Junior Music School, everyone can enjoy the Teddy Bear’s Picnic, to be held on April 1st in the beautiful Sunken Gardens. Classes for first semester are fully booked, but you can register you interest for semester 2 or order tickets for the Teddy Bear’s Picnic by emailing junior_music@uwa.edu.au or phoning 6488 7985.
Play and learn at UWA We also offer a choir as well as individual violin and piano lessons. Email: junior-music@uwa.edu.au Telephone: 6488 7985 Online enrolments for Semester 2 open in late May. Visit music.uwa. edu.au/community/junior.
Michelle Babicci School of Dance Gorgeous Dance wear for Children Do you want your little dancer to feel like a princess? Gorgeous dancewear full of sparkles, ruffles and fun. Find us at various Perth markets,
Fun and caring classes
Creative & non competitive fun for 3yrs old to adults. Beginners to advanced. Also classes for intellectually disabled • Jazz / hip hop • Classical ballet • Contemporary
Facebook and on-line:
www.heavenleecreations.com.au Lee-Anne Stillitano - 0421 138 506
60 Offspring | autumn 2012
Phone: 9243 6946 Email: michellebabicci@yahoo.com.au www.michellebabiccischoolofdance.com.au
CRICOS Provider Code 00126G
Junior Music School at The University of Western Australia offers small group lessons that capture the imagination of children aged 18 months to 12 years.
Special Feature
Academie Etoiles – ‘Nurturing aspiring dancers’ ‘Academie Etoiles’ Principal Samantha Leeman (ARAD, RAD RTS) and her team of teachers including Carole Hill ARAD, RAD RTS (former Soloist with the Royal Ballet and Principal Artist with London Festival Ballet), Anna Clarke RAD RTS and Mindy Thooi RAD RTS look forward
to an exciting year ahead for the Academie and its students. Academie Etoiles offers specialist classical ballet training, including preparation of students for Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) examinations. Students studying Modern and Tap are offered examinations in the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (ISTD) method. The Academie’s full-time training program prepares talented and dedicated students for a career in dance. Student successes in 2011 include Taylor Venter’s (pictured) scholarship to the Australian Ballet School and WA Finalist in RAD Australian Advanced 1 Bursary, Jessica Burt accepted to New Zealand School of Dance, Kendal Davis and May Greenberg accepted to WAAPA and Keshia Ollivierre becoming a recipient of Joan Stacy Scholarship, RAD Festival of Dance. Enrolments are still being accepted; call 9317 1569 to discuss options for your child in 2012.
Specialist Classical Ballet Classes
FULL-TIME PROGRAMME AVAILABLE
Academie Etoiles (formerly Stevens Dance Academy, Est.1972)
‘Nurturing Aspiring Dancers’ Enrolments are still being accepted, please call the studios for details.
Enquire now! places are limited
Classes Include: •Classical Ballet•RAD Exam Classes •ISTD Modern and Tap •Conditioning•Specialist Coaching
Classes for Boys & Girls 3years to Pre-Professional level Principal: Samantha Leeman Unit 3/7 Pitt Way, Booragoon Phone:(08) 9317 1569
Offspring | autumn 2012 61
food & nutrition
VEGE OUT! By Kate Bullen
T
his is not going to be a news flash – vegetables are good for all of us. With two young children I know
just how hard it can be to get kids to eat vegetables, so I decided to focus an entire article on the topic. Why are vegetables so important? The evidence is pretty strong – vegetables help to reduce our risk of heart disease, some cancers, being overweight and constipation. Some of these conditions might seem like a long way off for our kids – so why bother? Well, for me it’s about setting up good, healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime. We are seeing more and more kids who regularly have constipation, and the risk of being overweight or obese is very real. What is it in vegetables that help to keep us healthy? Vegetables contain plenty of antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals and fibre, which our bodies love. As adults, we need at least five serves of vegetables every day. The table (page 64) shows the minimum number of vegetable serves for children at different ages. We all know that some days can go really well with vegetable eating and on other days all they want to eat is cheese on crackers! The latest research shows that only 40% of WA primary school children and 25% of WA secondary school children eat enough vegetables.
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62 Offspring | autumn 2012
FACT:
Only 40% of W A primary schoo l children and 2 5% of secondary sch ool children eat en ough vegetables.
food & NUTRITION
VEGE T IPS
Here are some tips I’ve found beneficial in encouraging my kids to eat their vegetables:
1
Taste
Encourage children to
taste the food. They don’t have
rabbits eat carrots and how it helps their vision – this has helped increase
to eat it all and they may screw up
her carrot intake! Show children how
their noses (sound familiar?) but
much they should eat every day. You
the evidence shows that repeatedly
could create a reward chart to track
offering vegetables, and encouraging
the whole family’s vegetable eating.
(not forcing) children to take a small amount, are some of the best strategies to get kids to like and eat vegetables.
2
Parents must eat vegetables If parents regularly eat and enjoy
4
Offer variety This might involve
taking your children vegetable
shopping to let them choose some vegetables to try. Discuss different colours of vegetables. Perhaps your child
vegetables then children are more
has a favourite colour and they could
likely to do the same. The impact of
choose a vegetable to match this colour.
role modelling is very powerful.
You could make this a weekly activity to
3
Education Explain why
vegetables are important. My five
year old daughter is fascinated that
try new vegetables each week. The rule here is whatever your child chooses you
FACT:
Carrots help ou r vision because they contain high le vels of Vitamin A
MUST buy and prepare, and you as the parent must try it too!
Offspring | autumn 2012 63
food & nutrition
5
Involve your child in food preparation
This might be as simple as washing the vegetables, or if
Recommended daily intake of vegetables for children: Age of Child
Serves of Vegetables
4-7
At least 2 serves
your child is older chopping
8-11
At least 3 serves
some up. You might like to
12-18
At least 4 serves
ask what vegetables you could include in meals during the week. And don’t forget about
One serve of vegetables is: 75grams or ½ cup cooked vegetables or 1 cup salad vegetables
baking. Things like zucchini and date loaf show that vegetables can be eaten in many different ways.
6 7
Praise Kids love it! You will get best bang for your
FACT:
buck if you praise and notice good vegetable eating
and ignore the not so good vegetable eating.
Leave skin on potatoes and d give them a goo t es b e th ll scrub – a und vitamins are fo in in the sk
Grow your own A backyard vegetable patch – big or
small – can be a great learning experience and you
might be surprised what your children are prepared to eat
when they have been involved in growing it. Snow peas, lettuce, tomatoes and capsicum are favourites from our garden.
8
Roast vegetables Zucchini, sweet potato, pumpkin,
mushrooms and capsicum are delicious roasted – it
brings out the natural sweetness. Chop vegetables, add a couple of teaspoons of olive oil, sprinkle ground cumin and coriander and roast for 30-40 minutes at 180C.
64 Offspring | autumn 2012
One of our favourite family easy vegetable meals is homemade pizza. Both my five year old and
food & NUTRITION
Homemade Pizza two year old put on all their own toppings – which means it gets eaten! Here’s how to make an easy weeknight pizza: Flat or Lebanese bread Tomato paste Grated reduced fat cheese A variety of vegetables – grated zucchini, tomato, mushroom, capsicum are favourites Tinned pineapple First add tomato paste, then I get the kids to add the grated zucchini (helps to hide it from slightly fussier kids), then cheese and remaining vegetables. Cook in a hot oven for 8-10 minutes and enjoy!
Kate Bullen is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and
9
Mum to a five year old and 2 year old. More information
Include vegetables during the day Breakfast can
can be found at www.dietitianonline.com.au
include grilled mushrooms, snacks can be vegetables
sticks with a favourite dip, and even try adding a handful of baby spinach to a milkshake – don’t forget the banana to sweeten it up. A green smoothie goes down brilliantly!
10
Negotiate Make your children’s favourite meal – and add a couple of extra vegetables to it.
Win-win! Meatballs, bolognese and casseroles can easily have a few more vegetables thrown in, as can a vegemite sandwich (grated carrot and cucumber) or even sausages and mash (try adding roasted pumpkin, steamed broccoli and peas).
Offspring | autumn 2012 65
DAD’S WORD with Gary Ausbruch
BAGGAGE BUNGLES Family holidays are fun but packing for kids isn’t always so enjoyable, or straight-forward, as Gary realises.
“E
lla’s flower girl dress,” I said as I knelt on the suitcase, struggling to get the zip to close. “As long
as we’ve got that, it doesn’t matter if we forget anything because we can get it up there. They do sell nappies in Bali you know.” The damned zip still wouldn’t budge. “And probably even jumbo packs of Pine-O-Clean wipes. Look, there’s no way anything more will fit in this case and I don’t
at our supreme organisational skills, and licked my lips in
want to squash the dress. I’ll put it in mine.”
anticipation of the icy cold Bintang waiting for me at the villa...
I had to hand it to the wife, she was nothing if not prepared.
“The dress!” The tropical paradise inside my head was
A list maker from way back, she thrived in these situations
suddenly disturbed by a tropical thunderstorm, as the wife
and had skilfully undertaken the challenging logistical
shouted out and sank her nails into my arm. Her face had
exercise of getting the four of us on the plane for a wedding
gone as white as the puffy little clouds out the window
in Bali, on time, and in one piece. With the kids still amused
behind her. “The dress,” she said, voice now a barely audible
by the toys handed out by the stewardess, I closed my eyes
whisper. “I forgot to check with you. Tell me you packed it.
as I settled back into the aeroplane seat, smiled smugly
Didn’t you?”
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66 Offspring | autumn 2012
experiencing that feeling of raw, utter helplessness when
I ran through a mental list of the things I’d been responsible for packing. My clothes – too easy, just some
you’ve stuffed up and you know there’s not a thing you can
underwear, boardies and three t-shirts per day (I don’t
do about rectifying the situation for hours. I had to use all
handle humidity well). Passports – ha! I suppressed a
the willpower I could muster to not say, “Scotch, please.”
chuckle thinking about how else we would have managed
Although I’m sure they get that all the time on the 7.30am
to get on the plane, of course I remembered the passports!
Perth to Denpasar. What had started off as a celebration of my
The iPad – a travelling essential – and I forecast it would be good for about two hours a day of kid distraction time,
organisational skills had turned into a case study on the
in fact I glanced over and noticed it was being used by one
Stages of Grief. From Denial: I can’t believe I forgot the
of them as we spoke. The latest Top Gear magazine – I saw
dress. To Anger: If she hadn’t packed so much stuff, the
Jeremy Clarkson’s face peeking at me out of the seat pouch
dress would have fit in her case. To Bargaining: I’ll start
in front of me and thought about how much I was looking
praying every day if you can get this dress to Bali. And then
forward to reading that Car of the Year article. Oh, and the
Depression: I’m so stupid. And finally, Acceptance: It will
flower girl dress – err, still on a hanger on the door to our
be okay.
MISS YOUR BEFORE-BABY YOUR BODY? RE-BABY ?
And thankfully, it was. After making some calls when we
walk-in robe.
I had a feeling there would be tears soon. And that the
landed, we organised some friends who were flying up the next day to pick up a spare key from a relative and collect
wife would be pretty upset too.
the dress from our house. We had a great trip, the wedding
Back to reality as the stewardess greeted me with a
smile. Unfortunately, the world hadn’t stopped for my
was beautiful (especially the flower girl), and we didn’t even
personal emergency. “Would you like tea or coffee with
get Bali belly. Maybe it was because everything we touched
your breakfast, sir?” she asked. I was in the midst of
had been Pine-O-Clean wiped first.
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ly Proven. Dramatic Results. Before
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& Circumferential Reduction*
Before
Photos: Gerald Boey, M.D.
Post three treatments.
After Post five treatments.
* FDA cleared for temporary reduction of thighs circumferences and temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite. © 2007. All rights reserved. VelaShape and the VelaShape logo are trademarks of Syneron Medical Ltd. and may be registered in certain jurisdictions. 00410 09-07
Cellulite Treatment & Circumferential Reduction*
Before
After
Non-surgical. Clinically Proven. Dramatic Results. Post five treatments. Photos: Gerald Boey, M.D.
Photos: Moshe Lapidot, M.D.
hs circumferences and temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite. Before After
Before
Post three treatments. trademarks of Syneron Medical Ltd. and may be registered in certain jurisdictions. 00410 09-07
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After Post five treatments.
Offspring | autumn 2012 67
TRAVEL
By Jennifer Black
London assumes the mantle of one of the world’s great cities, alongside New York and Paris. Why not make 2012 the year you visit the Queen? London
exciting reasons to visit London
Besides the obvious landmarks of
this year. 2012 is the Queen’s Diamond
Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and The Tower of London, Madam
Jubilee and the year that London will
Tussauds, Piccadilly Square, The
host its third Olympic Games, from
London Eye and the many theatres
July 27 to Aug 12. London will be
and museums, there are two new
hosting a summer like no other – let’s
LOSE YOUR BABY WEIGHT WITH PROVEN RESULTS!
Do you want to be a fit and healthy mum for your kids?
WE CAN AND WILL GUARANTEE TO… Give you back your healthy body! Find you again! Give our time to look after you! Get back your vitality for life with your family! Give our attention to YOU, it’s all about you! Exercise where, when and how it suits you! Not sure about personal training? Book our “Give it a Go” pack for $200 (That’s a saving of $20 per session!!).
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OFFSPRING AD WITH BADGE.indd 1
3/10/11 5:32:55 PM
Stopovers - Dubai
a history and cultural lesson for the
While some families like to get to
kids all rolled into one. From London
London as quickly as possible there
it is easy to drive or train to Scotland,
are many good reasons to stop on the
Wales or even Ireland. Hire a car and
way and Dubai is one of them.
stay in one of the fabulous, cosy B
• Stopovers offer you an extra
& Bs scattered throughout the UK;
destination for the price of
the kids will have fun meeting and
accommodation only.
conversing with the locals.
• A break in the journey can ensure you
For something completely different and exciting why not spend a night
arrive at your destination refreshed. • Would you pay just to come back to
your little princesses and princes will
the stopover?
never forget and stay in a real castle?
• When you visit family in the UK,
Celtic Castles offer a wide range of
Dubai offers a few days in an
castles with family accommodation.
exotic culture.
Imagine your children living like Harry
This mystical, intriguing city is
Potter for the night. They can explore the
halfway between Oz and Europe
not forget Wimbeldon in June – with
castle grounds, spend hours in the many
and has plenty to entertain a family.
the Mayor of London hosting a huge
garden mazes and learn about life as it
Many of the hotels in Dubai cater
program of free events and festivities
was centuries ago. Traquair Castle near
for children with dedicated pools,
leading up to the Games and during
Edinburgh in Scotland, or Bovey Castle
clubs and playgrounds, along with
this historic global event.
in England, are among the best.
specialised programs and activities
For more information:
For more information:
to keep the younger members of the
www.molpresents.com
www.celticcastles.com
family entertained. Many restaurants
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provide highchairs and children’s
London is family friendly, with
TRAVEL
lots of ‘pomp and ceremony’ and is
CLUB MED FAMILY SPECIALS • All inclusive resorts (Food, Drinks, Kids Club*, Entertainment)
throughout Asia • Family offers for 2 Adults & 2 Children (2-11yrs) • Return economy airfares • Guaranteed interconnecting rooms
Come and speak to Motive travel, for the latest special offers to your preferred Club Med destination Travel dates now, until the 31st of October. Conditions apply
Contact Maria for all details: www.travelwithkidz.com.au/motive-travel PH: 9322 2666 E: kidz@motivetravel.com.au
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WAKE UP YOUR KIDS! Find the balance between homework and play and switch them back on with a term kids programme.
Learn to Swim • Kids Gym • Kanga Karate Fit Club • Junior Soccer and Basketball
Challenge Stadium
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9441 8222
9300 3355
www.venueswest.wa.gov.au
Offspring | autumn 2012 69
TRAVEL
menus, making it easy for families to enjoy the culinary scene in Dubai with young children. Outside the hotel, Dubai offers a large range of family-focused attractions, events and activities from which to choose: • Burj Khalifa: the world’s tallest building. The lift is amazing. • Kidzania: the huge ‘city-like’ complex is one of the world’s most imaginative children’s attractions. KidZania provides a very realistic educational environment that allows children (4yrs – 12yrs) to role-play by mimicking
the dunes, camel rides and sand dune safaris. • Dubai Mall is home to an Olympic-
traditionally adult activities
sized ice rink where children can play
in an indoor functioning ‘city’
ice hockey or even attend a disco on
built to scale for children. More
ice. Alternatively, the SEGA Republic
information: www.kidzania.com
indoor theme park offers five zones
• Dolphin Bay: in the world-famous Atlantis resort. • Dubai’s Desert: striking, rolling
of entertainment for all ages. • Ski Dubai: One of the coolest things to do in Dubai is to snow
sand dunes and an unforgettable
ski all year round in the Mall of the
sense of timelessness. Dinner in
Emirates indoor Snow Centre.
Toys you won’t find anywhere else!
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70 Offspring | autumn 2012
20% off voucher
Present this ad for a fantastic 20% discount off your next purchase! Expires 31st May 2012
calendar of events Mondays Kids in the Kitchen Aimed at primary school age children, this program teaches basic cooking skills such as, healthy eating from the food pyramids, hygiene and different cooking techniques. • COST FREE • TIME 4.30pm-5.30pm • VENUE Champion Centre, Seville Grove • CONTACT 9399 0820
4th March The Doula within nurturing workshop White Owl Birthing is inviting a gathering of the women of Perth to come and be with our sacred space for us to share the journey of birth across all cultures, the doula ( birth companion) within us all in an afternoon of healing, creative birthing journeys with sound, creative visualisation and birth art. For all doulas, midwives, and those passionate about birth & those who are pregnant to enjoy a unique experience of spiritual ancient birth songs that revive our hearts, and connecting with each other and ourselves. • COST $35 • TIME 1.15pm • VENUE Conscious conception & Birth Centre, 1 Lefroy St, Mt Nasura • CONTACT Sharron White Mob 0408 390 113 www.whiteowlbirthing.com.au
Saturday 10 March City of Wanneroo Global Beats & Eats Festival Featuring Tijuana Cartel, celebrating our diversity through
music and cuisine. Free entertainment inspired from around the globe, delicious foods and activities. • COST Free • TIME 5pm-9pm • VENUE Liddell Park, Cnr Wanneroo Rd & Beach Rd, Girrawheen • CONTACT Ivana Leong, 9405 5000, events@wanneroo.wa.gov.au, www.wanneroo.wa.gov.au
Saturday 10 March 2012 FEATURE IN THE PARK Pack your low chairs, picnic rugs and dancing shoes for a night of amazing jazz under the stars! James Flynn and the Little Big Band will perform classics from the likes of Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Dean Martin & Michael Buble. • COST FREE • Children’s Activities 5:00pm-7:00pm • Concert: 7:00pm • VENUE Lightning Park, Cnr Reid and Tonkin Hwy, Noranda (Access from Reid Hwy travelling West ONLY) • Contact: City of Bayswater Event Team: 9272 0622
11 March 2012 Music by Moonlight – Magical Movie Moments The WA Youth Orchestra will perform an evening of magical music featuring tunes from the most well known and loved movies including James Bond, ET, Indiana Jones and Pirates of the Caribbean. Bring a picnic, a blanket and your friends and family. • COST Free • TIME 7pm • VENUE Burswood Park Foreshore (off Resort Drive) • CONTACT 9311 8114 or admin@vicpark.wa.gov.au
Offspring | autumn 2012 71
calendar of events Fortnightly on a Tuesday from 13 March
Sunday, 18 March, Sunday, 20 May
(not including school holidays)
Chatterbox Markets
Mums without Mums group
Chatterbox Markets is the walk, talk and shop experience not to be missed. Showcasing a wide variety of boutique, handmade and unique products for all ages from Work at Home businesses. We would love to see you at our next market!
This free fortnightly Mums without mums group provides a chance for women in similar situations to talk about raising children, support each other and share their stories. • COST FREE • TIME 10.30am-12noon • VENUE Lords Cafe, 3 Price Street, Subiaco • CONTACT City of Subiaco on 9237 9216 natashaa@subiaco.wa.gov.au
• COST: Free Entry • TIME: 10am-2pm • VENUE: Altone Recreation Centre, 332 Altone Road, Beechboro, WA • CONTACT: Natalie and Ardrian, E: chatterboxmarkets@ hotmail.com, W: www.chatterboxmarkets.com.au
13,17, 26, 27, 31 March, 28 April, 28 May Sleep and Your Growing Baby Parenting Workshop This workshop will explore ways for parents to approach this exciting and exhausting stage, including understanding feeding and sleep patterns. For parents / carers of children 3 to 7 months. • COST $20 single, $28 couple • VENUE Ngala, 275 Abernethy Road, Belmont • CONTACT Colette Falconer 9368-9333
Saturday 17 March Pregnancy Workshop Free workshop for couples to find out the two secrets to feeling supported, confident, healthy and loved. Learn why new mothers feel exhausted and overwhelmed… and what to do about it. “I feel really empowered after the workshop...I would definitely recommend it.”
• COST Free • TIME 10am-12pm • VENUE CMWA North Fremantle • CONTACT www.newbornmothers.com.au or 0450 067 036
Tuesday 20, 24 March & 23 April & 21 May Building Brains Parenting Workshop The importance of early influences on brain development during the first three years of life will be discussed. For parents/carers of children newborn to 3 years. • COST $20 single, $28 couple • VENUE Ngala, 9 George Street, Kensington • CONTACT Colette Falconer 9368-9333
24 March Activate Harmony This free event will allow kids to come and try a range of activities from different sporting clubs in the area, and you can sign up if you enjoy it. • COST Free • TIME 10am-Noon • VENUE John MacMillan Park, Sussex St, East Victoria Park • CONTACT 9311 8114 or email admin@vicpark.wa.gov.au
Smiley Cakes novelty cupcakes for kids!
Free Gift Cake
on presentation of this advertisement on orders of 12 or more cupcakes. Valid to December 2012
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72 Offspring | autumn 2012
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Offspring | autumn 2012 73
calendar of events 25 March
Wednesday 28 March
All Abilities Play Space Consultation Event
Hello Baby
Help us design a playground. The City of Nedlands and Rotary are designing and building a new universally inclusive play space. Do you have great ideas about what would make a playground work well for everyone? Come along to the All Abilities Play Space onsite consultation event.
Welcoming new babies into the Cockburn Community. This event is specifically aimed at new parents/carers and families with very young children.
• COST Free • TIME 4pm-6pm • VENUE Beaton Park Reserve, the Esplanade, Nedlands • CONTACT 9273 3566, dappleby@ nedlands.wa.gov.au, www.nedlands.wa.gov.au
Sunday 25 March 2012 Children’s Circus Day Come and clown around at Macaulay Park Circus morning. There will be stage entertainment, circus workshops, roving circus entertainers and more. • COST Free • TIME 10am-1pm • VENUE Macaulay Park Inglewood • CONTACT Carmen Walters
Monday 26, 30 March, 30 April & 28 May Tasty Toddler Parenting Workshop This workshop will explore how a child’s developing senses shape their feelings and attitudes to the process of eating. For parents / carers of children 1 to 3 years. • COST $20 single, $28 couple • VENUE Ngala, 9 George Street, Kensington • CONTACT Colette Falconer 9368-9333
• COST FREE • TIME 10.30am-12.30pm • VENUE Manning Park Azelia Rd Hamilton Hill • CONTACT City of Cockburn 9411 3444
Saturday 31 March WAAPA in the Park Run in conjunction with the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts this concert showcase WAAPA’s finest performance and production students. • COST Free • TIME 7:30pm-9:30pm • VENUE Ron Stone Park Mt Lawley • CONTACT Carmen Walters
28 March World’s Biggest Playgroup Day Wonderful activities this year include animal farm, craft activities, bouncy castle, face painting, nature play and so much more. Bring a blanket, sunscreen, a hat, a picnic and your friends! • COST Free • TIME 10am-1pm • VENUE Whiteman Park Village. Entry off Lord Street or Beechboro Road, Whiteman. • CONTACT 1800 171 882 www.playgroupwa.com.au
Saturday 31 March and Sunday 1 April Joondalup Festival The Joondalup City Centre will come alive with a range of exciting activities and world-class entertainment.
Wedding and Portrait Specialist
• COST Free Event • TIME 1.00pm-8.00pm Sat and 1.00pm7.00pm Sun • VENUE Joondalup CBD • CONTACT Lisa Candriella 9400 4912
7-9 April Fremantle Street Arts Festival Australia’s biggest and best street arts festival returns in full force to Fremantle this Easter long weekend showcasing the world of busking, street theatre, comedy, circus, cabaret and lots more. • CONTACT City of Fremantle Festivals team (08) 9432 9999
Sunday 22 April Chatterbox Markets Chatterbox Markets is the walk, talk and shop experience not to be missed. Showcasing a wide variety of boutique, handmade and unique products for all ages from Work at Home businesses. We would love to see you at our next market! • COST Free Entry • TIME 10am-2pm • VENUE South Perth Community Centre, cnr South Terrace and Sandgate Street, South Perth • CONTACT Natalie and Ardrian, E: chatterboxmarkets@hotmail.com, W: www.chatterboxmarkets.com.au
TO VIEW THE FULL AUTUMN CALENDAR PLEASE VISIT For more info call 0424 978 424 or visit www.jrphotography.com.au
74 Offspring | autumn 2012
offspringmagazine.com.au
Directory
KID’S MEALS AVAILABLE ALL DAY!
ENJOY KID’S MEALS
AT THE COFFEE CLUB INNALOO PORTRAITS ~ PREGNANCY ~ NEWBORNS
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Cards
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Shop 1005 Westfield Innaloo Ellen Stirling Boulevard P: 9242 8995
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www.angeliccouture.net
Offspring | autumn 2012 75
Reach your target market with Offspring Why advertise in Offspring?
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