THINGS TO DO & PLACES TO GO FOR FAMILIES
sprouti ng
kids' fashi ons
Lock eyes with kids’ health coach Lana Purcell
little ones
h elp with
bi g research
great
gift ideas
SUMMER 2016
A Star News Group Publication
Incorporating
contents
4
8-11
Never too young to save Angie’s catch-up Angie Hilton chats with Lana Purcell, a life health coach, workshop presenter,
24
Magical theatre at GPAC
28
Hello Santa
caterer and wholefoods cook.
26
5
Pirates rule the seas
Little things make a big difference
6
Animal attractions
Journal a fundraiser for little travellers
16
32-33
Salt therapy a ‘drug-free alternative’
Christmas for kids
17
Things we love
7
Wild at heart
31
27 18-19 Kitchen magic with the kids
Cultural treats at Narana
34-35 37 38-39 Good summer read
Say what!
21
Kids’ parties
Kids kalendar
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climbing the ladder of learning •Freeirsttrialclassfornewfamilies •From8weekoldbabiesto pre-schoolers •45minweeklyclassespromotingand enhancingnaturaldevelopment •Internationallyaccredited,unique Australianprogram •Professionalandexperiencedstaff •Widerangeofageappropriateactivities •Differentthemeeveryterm •Spaciousvenuewithheating/cooling andoffstreetparking Contact us: 0416 224 530 Email: geelong@gymbaroo.com.au Web: gymbaroogeelong.com.au Facebook: Gymbaroo Geelong 12325692-KC48-16
2 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
about us . . .
summer
daze
HI EVERYONE! How’s the Christmas prep going? Well, so far in the Hilton/Cox house we’ve managed to get the carols piping on high rotation, the Elf on the Shelf has made her grand entrance, the tree is up with a revamped look (brand new silver and aqua decorations) and under the tree there is ... zilch! I tell myself every year that I’ll get my act together, plan out presents, stick to a budget and not stress myself out by leaving EVERYTHING until the week before. Maybe I’m addicted to the rush. I must admit I do love a late night Kmart frenzy. Wish me luck! Our fourth edition of GCK is a ripper! I caught up with Lana Purcell – owner of Sprouts Canteen and Cooking School. This supercharged Ocean Grove mum is on a mission to improve the nutritional knowledge and general health of our local little ones. Also in this issue, Luke Voogt takes a look at the Barwon Infant Study. A fascinating study performed on over 1000 local infants to collect vital information to help give all our babies the best start in life. Ocean Grove mum Kate McLean, of Whale Spout children’s clothing label, answers all mothers’ pleas by designing
age appropriate children’s wear that allows kids to dress as kids – not mini adults. Award winning swim instructor Michelle McInnes from Splashdown gives us a timely reminder of the importance of getting our children comfortable in the water – from as little as six months old. In 2017 a family favourite will return – GPAC’s Love Central Geelong Family Magic Program. Showcasing six fantastic family productions, all based on popular children’s stories – a great one to pop in the diary. There are also lots of book and game reviews, a Kids Kalendar with ideas to inspire you and some great shots of Santa’s arrival at Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre. From everyone here at GCK, have a wonderful Christmas! I hope all of you parents get some well-deserved rest over the break.
Geelong Coast Kids magazine is a Star News Group publication. Geelong Coast Kids will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays. Geelong Coast Kids 1st Floor, 78 Moorabool St, Geelong, Vic 3220 Phone: 5249 6700 Fax: 5249 6799 Managing Editor Tony Galpin editorial@geelongcoastkids.com.au Phone: 5249 6700 Advertising Rebecca Hanneysee advertising@geelongcoastkids.com.au Phone: 5249 6708 / 0407 227 234 Creative Creative Services Manager: Chris Beale Design Mark Dinnie Virginia Hester Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.
Stay safe and we’ll see you again in 2017.
Angie Hilton
THINGS TO DO & PLACES TO GO FOR FAMILIES
Contributing editor sprouting
kids' fashions
Lock eyes with kids’ health coach Lana Purcell
little ones
help with
big research
great
gift ideas
SUMMER 2016
A Star N News G Group P Publication bl
Incorporating
COVER: Ruby, 6, looking good in Whale Spout clothing on Geelong’s waterfront. Picture: Louisa Jones.
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www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 3
It’s
your life With the dramatic increase of anaphylaxis and the existence of asthma it is vital that all children have an understanding of each condition and how to alert a caregiver to help . . .
never too yo ung
to save a life By Lia Spencer
CHILDREN as young as three are being taught the skills to to save a life. Wonderwoman Children’s Toby the Teddy Does Buddy First Aid program was launched on World First Aid Day, 10 September. Australia’s first early year First Aid program aims to create awareness and teach all Australian children from as young as three about triple-zero services and how to deliver first aid. The program will also create awareness about common childhood emergencies such as asthma and anaphylaxis. “With the dramatic increase of anaphylaxis and the existence of asthma it is vital that all children have an understanding of each condition and how to alert a caregiver to help,” Nataly Tormey, founder of Wonderwoman Children and MumLife Australia safety expert said.
Ani Tuna, founder of MumLife Australia, said the program not only empowered young children with the skills to save a life, but also helped develop their compassion, self-esteem, and sense of purpose. The fun and educational program was created within the Australian Early Learning Years framework and curriculum and is interactive, featuring book readings, work sheets and practice scenarios tailored to age groups. The program may be implemented into pre-schools and run as an optional incursion for early learning centres with the vision of it being a compulsory addition to childhood learning. For more information visit www.mumlifeaustralia.com or www.wonderwomanchildren.com.
Wi nners in for some seri ous play
Natalie Daly, Paulie Planken and their kids Aayda, 2, and Archer, 6 months, check out their custom cubby from Playgrounds Geelong Just Awesome, which they won in a Geelong Coast Kids give-away.
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4 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
It’s
your life
Li t tl e
THI NGS make a
BI G
e c n e r e f dif
Ada Wilson gets a checku p with Barw Study paedia on Infant trician Lawre nce Gray.
By Luke Voogt MORE than 1000 Geelong babies and children are helping local researchers break new scientific ground in the Barwon Infant Study. Anna Shaw has been a part of the study since she was pregnant with her now four-year-old daughter Ada. Ada has asthma and her mother hopes the study can reveal the cause of the condition. This would allow her to remove triggers of her daughter’s asthma from her life, she says. “Her quality of life would improve dramatically.” Anna says it would be equally wonderful if researchers discovered factors in pregnancy which could cause the condition. “We’re told so many things when we’re pregnant. “But if they can come up with something specific which is causing asthma or allergies and pass it on to parents in the future that would be fantastic.”
We ' ve co-evolved with these mi croorganisms that live in our bodies... In the past year the study has released papers on everything from ADHD to how a mother’s mental health during pregnancy can affect a baby’s genes. “It covers most things you could think of in the modern world,” Peter says. In January the study published evidence that babies who develop food allergy have a hyper-responsive immune system at birth.
After six years the study is beginning to map local infant health, says principal investigator Deakin Associate Professor Peter Vuillermin.
“In April we published a paper showing, for the first time, a link between factors that may influence a baby’s gut bacteria and early markers for cardiovascular risk,” Peter says.
“I think we’re at a point where we are starting to discover some really important things.”
The study has found links between a mother’s mental well-being during pregnancy and the ‘shape’ of the
baby’s genes at birth. It also found a link between women’s weight before pregnancy and their baby’s adiposity (fatness) birth. “There is a really important health message in that,” Peter says. “If you’re thinking about having a baby it’s really important time to attend to your own health.” Researchers from Deakin University, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and Barwon Health have been collecting questionnaire data and samples for the study since 2010. Peter described the study as a combination of “people power” and “cutting-edge technology. “It’s unique in the depth of biological samples,” he says.
But the most exciting breakthroughs are yet to come, Peter says. “We currently have a number of papers in review.” “These include an investigation of the difference in food allergy rates in Geelong and Melbourne and the factors that may explain the difference.” The papers have identified a possible link between vitamin D and folate levels and the baby’s risk of allergy, Peter says. And the study may be on the verge of making another important breakthrough with allergies, he says. “We have recently received a huge amount of data regarding the bacteria present in the mother and baby’s poo samples. Early analyses are looking very exciting – watch this space.” People in developed nations have less diversity of micro-organisms living in their gut than hunter-gatherer tribes on an “agrarian-type diet”, Peter says. This may account for increasing allergy rates in the western world,” he says. “There’s a lot of evidence that it has its origins in early life. We’ve co-evolved with these micro-organisms that live in our bodies. “We’re trying to understand why the loss of those micro-organisms may be driving the increase in immune-related diseases.”
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www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 5
It’s
Jacques and Xavier with a slithery customer.
your life
Inset: Xavier and Madeleine Morello and their family.
animal attracti ons By Elissa Friday
of protected unspoilt indigenous native forest full of local wildlife.
WITH a passion for wildlife and conservation, Xavier and Madeleine Morello enjoy their work introducing kids to all sorts of native Australian wildlife.
“This move has helped us align even more with our true dream and ethos for Wildlife Xposure, providing ethical and sustainable interactive wildlife conservation programs,” Xavier said.
The couple own and operate Wildlife Xposure, offering live interactive animal presentations throughout Victoria to educate children and other onlookers with unforgettable animal experiences, involving everything from snakes and crocodiles to owls and local marine species found in our Victorian coastal waters.
The programs are ideal for schools, kindergartens, childcare facilities and also offer wildlife birthday parties, displays, stage presentations for festivals, shopping centres, corporate events and much more.
Xavier’s first pet, a blue-tongued lizard, was the beginning of his
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The couple has recently moved from Melbourne to the Surf Coast with their family and menagerie to a property amongst the trees, with over an acre
With over 12 years of experience in wildlife education and eco-tourism, outdoor enthusiast and passionate wildlife advocate Xavier also takes a keen interest in nature photography.
fascination with wildlife, which developed into a “life-long passion”, he said. They have ten pythons, two dingoes, four crocodiles, four goannas, five water dragons, eight green tree frogs, a colony of squirrel gliders and threatened species such as potoroos, Madeleine explained. “We also have a barn owl, a barking owl chick and two tawny frogmouths.” Madeleine says the property is not only a haven for their animals but also a diverse range of native wildlife. Wildlife Xposure’s in-depth presentations and displays include programs on native animals, marine life, and creepy crawlies like bugs, spiders, and other invertebrates, which Madeleine describes as “really popular with kids”.
6 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
THERE is so much going on at all three Zoo Victoria locations this summer. Grab the family and enjoy some Creek Play at Healesville Sanctuary. Spot true-blue kangaroos hopping around their home, catch platypus keeping cool and see the koala family settled in the new Koala Forest treetops boardwalk.
sun set from Hippo Beach. While you relax beneath the thatched umbrellas the kids will love playing in the sand and cooling off under the fountains. During the night you can purchase African-inspired dishes, but visitors are also welcome to bring their own blankets, hampers and beverages for a relaxed picnic on the lawn.
It’s an all Aussie adventure and a must-see destination for visiting friends and family wanting to experience the real Australian bush. The best part is it’s just an hour from Melbourne’s CBD.
If you feel like venturing to the city, head to Melbourne Zoo to help Australia’s favourite elephant celebrate its birthday, or enjoy some great music at the Zoo Twilights.
Don’t forget to pack a picnic and your togs to cool off by Badger Creek.
Asian Elephant calf Mali made history in 2010 as the first female elephant calf born in Australia, and ever since she has captured the hearts of Melburnians. The little darling will be celebrating her seventh birthday in January, so be sure to pay her a visit.
At Werribee Open Range Zoo, Rhythm of Africa returns with a fantastic program for families with live African music and kids activities. Now in its 20th year, Rhythm of Africa has become a must-do summer tradition, bringing together families and friends for a magic mix of warm summer nights, African beats and picnics on the grass. This year’s concert series will run every Saturday night from 7 January to 25 February. The program will feature live contemporary and traditional African bands and a range of special activities for the kids including drumming workshops, hair-braiding and facepainting. Safari Tours through the savannah will run until 6pm and the African Pula Trail will remain open until 8pm, allowing you to explore the zoo as dusk falls, spotting lions, wild dogs and cheetah on the prowl and hippos grazing on the beach. If the weather’s warm don’t forget to bring the kids’ bathers and watch the
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
Wild
It’s
your life
at h e a rt
The Melbourne Zoo Twilights is the perfect place to enjoy the warm summer evenings in the heart of the city’s inner-north. Stroll through the gardens and visit the animals before settling down with your mates on the zoo’s fully-licensed picturesque lawns to a picnic, a gourmet hamper or delights from the new food trucks at Taste of Twilights. All proceeds from the Melbourne Zoo Twilights series support the recovery of the Eastern Barred Bandicoot. Proceeds from the concert series help Zoos Victoria fight wildlife extinction. Zoos Victoria’s three zoos are open 365 days between 9am and 5pm. For more information visit zoo.org.au, zoo.org.au/ rhythm or zootwilights.org.au. Remember, kids under 16 years old receive free entry every day of the summer school holidays.
Victoria’s Zoos offer something for everyone.
SUMMER 2016 7
It’s
your life
angie's catch-up
Pictures: Lindsay Kelley
food for
thought When I first locked eyes with Lana Purcell in the waiting room of my daughter’s dance school I knew we had to chat. When I say ‘locked eyes’, I don’t mean in a creepy way, it’s just that the intensity of Lana’s piercing blue eyes is irresistible. So we chewed the fat – and I found my new health coach.
lana Purcell
Career: health coach, workshop presenter, caterer and wholefoods cook. Age: 34 Resides: Ocean Grove Hubby: Chris – “soul mate, rock, best friend”. Daughters: Sienna, 8. Wise, kind and caring. Birth: Two weeks early but still 9lb 5oz. “I shudder to think of how it would have been full term! The birth was great due to the heaven-sent epidural.” Eyde, 7. Passionate, energetic, bold. Birth: Conceived just 10 months after Sienna. “Another whopper, 9lb 6oz. Thank the Lord for epidurals!” Cassia, 3, Fun, sweet, snuggly. Birth: A natural experience.
Lana Purcell with husband Chris and daughters Sienna, Eyde and Cassia.
“I joined the midwifery program, which was excellent. I also tried art birthing, acupuncture and read lots of natural birthing books. “Cassia ended up being 11 days overdue and my mental state was deteriorating rapidly. I demanded to be induced. “I used the gas to control my breathing but I must admit I got to the point of, ‘Bugger this, give me the good drugs’. Of course, it was too late. “She was another biggie – 9lb 7oz.” Life before children: I spent my childhood in Singapore, Indonesia and the UK. I experienced the wisdom and wonder of an expatriate life. I lived a little on the wild side through my twenties, learnt from my mistakes and got my act together to start treating my body, mind and soul with the respect it deserves. Mission in life: To do something to help people every day. Guilty pleasure: Toblerones and bubble baths. At the same time – even better! Favourite quote: “History shows us that people who end up changing the world are always nuts, until they are right, then they are geniuses” – John Eliot Favourite book: The Accidental Entrepreneur, by Boost Juice’s Janine Allis.
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 9
It’s
your life Lana passes on her food skills to the next generation.
Angie Hilton: Well Lana, last time we caught up properly, I exposed myself by letting you raid my pantry to purge all the bad stuff. I then let you put me on a horrific detox that made me feel like I was dying. But like a moth to a flame, I’m always drawn back to you because you are such a good influence. What goodness are you delivering to the world at the moment? Lana: (laughs) You’re never going to forgive me for that detox are you? But think of how great you felt afterwards!
Angie: Ha ha! You’re right.
Well we had to be sneaky and clever about it. We knew we couldn’t go all out with green smoothies and chia pudding…
Lana: Well since our last catch up when I was working as a health coach I’ve had a bit of a career change. I’m now working on my my true passion, which is educating children about nutrition and where food comes from through my new business Sprouts Canteen and Cooking School.
Angie: Sounds fantastic! How did this all come about? Lana: My children’s school canteen closed down, which was no big deal to me, as I never really used it. One night my husband said to me, “Why don’t you take over the school canteen?” My instant reaction was “no way!” as
I envisioned myself having to sell hot dogs, chips and zooper doopers (which as you know, would be against my whole food philosophy). However, he had planted a seed, and after a little pondering I had a light bulb moment ... I realised I could have a healthy impact – not only my own children, but on the whole school. It felt like the perfect way to combine my passion and work.
Angie: Gee whiz, that sounds awesome in theory, and I would be over the moon if you were in my children’s school, but was there an uproar from the kids who still wanted slushies? Lana: Well we had to be sneaky and clever about it. We knew we couldn’t go all out with green smoothies and chia pudding, so we had to make versions of what they were familiar with, using more natural ingredients such as wholemeal flour and raw sugar. For example, our menu has things like coconut oil popped popcorn with himalayan pink salt, gingerbread men, healthy cookies, sausage rolls (with sneaky vegies), spaghetti bolognaise (with sneaky vegies) and fruit cups with yoghurt and coconut.
Angie: I love it! Have you had a big uptake? Lana: It’s taken off so quickly that we
had to invest in a warehouse with a commercial kitchen to keep up with the demand. Word seems to have spread so much so, that next year, we will be delivering to another four schools that don’t have canteens. We estimate that will be about 300 lunches per week operating only Wednesday to Friday.
Angie: My goodness, you must be busy. I struggle to make two kids lunches each day. Are you managing to find the work/life balance? Lana: In a word NO! We are basically chasing our tails, as we really weren’t ready for it to take off this quickly. I definitely don’t have the balance right at the moment and I’m the first to admit it. Chris and I are like ships in the night. But the good thing is that we both want it to work, and can see the big picture. We’re putting in the hard yards now to get into a rhythm where we can control the pace a bit better. I have to say as well that without the support of my parents – especially my mum – that none of this would exist. Grandma has most definitely come to the rescue with helping to bring up my three year old and I am so very grateful. I also made a point of setting the business up so that I can have the girls with me at any time. They love getting their hands dirty in the kitchen. Also, four of my core staff have children that come along, so it really is a family affair.
Angie: With this level of intensity do you get stressed? If so, how do you manage it? Lana: Well, not so long ago I would have said WINE! A nightly wine just became the norm. But when I took on this business, and the grand plans for it grew rapidly in my head, I knew that I had to be on my game. I knew I needed a constant clear head not just for myself, but also to show everyone around me just how serious I was. So I joined up a free program called www. hellosundaymorning.org so that I was accountable to someone. I committed to them for 12 months. I was surprised at what a profound effect being ‘alcohol free’ had on my body, business, and overall life. My go-to stress buster now is my bath. I have one every day – even if it’s at 11pm at night. It’s a must for me. It’s where I make all my business decisions.
I went a bit crazy on all the fad diets for a while there. It all became too complex. In the end I decided to keep my message really simple – especially with the kids. I tell them “this is what it should be like, this is how you grow it, this is how it should taste and this is how you can cook it” – as simple as that.
We have a herb and vegie garden where they learn how to plant, care for, pick and then cook their own food. We then make things such as pastas, sausage rolls, healthy ice-cream, healthy cakes, etc. We also like to teach them things like setting the table and using manners.
Angie: So on top of the 300 lunches per week you have the Sprouts Cooking School? What goes on there?
Angie: Where do I sign mine up? Do you also teach them how to clean their rooms?
Lana: We like to explore all aspects of cooking in our classes, sometimes we start with getting the kids excited by getting them to make their own cakes and decorate them and then further down the track we introduce the educational aspect.
Lana: (laughs) Hmmm ... there’s a new business in itself!
Angie: Thanks Lana. Hope you make your way into my children’s schools in 2017. Lana: Love to!
Healthy Lunchbox Treat
Healthy
chocolate Crackle
Angie: Aah, a woman after my own heart. I’m a daily bather too. Why stand up when you can sit down I say! So, where did your passion for healthy eating stem from?
Ingredients 3/4 cups walnuts
Lana: My dad was diagnosed coeliac, Sienna was born with eczema and I had CIN 3 pre-cancer changes. I wanted to find natural ways to combat them so I decided to study at the Institute of Integrative Medicine (at the same time as Pete Evans and Sarah Wilson), which looks at over 100 different dietary theories.
1 heaped tbsp almond butter 1/2 cup raisins 2 tbsp flax meal 2-3 tbsp maple syrup 1 cup shredded coconut 1 cup puffed rice 1 cup coconut oil 3/4 cup maple syrup 1/4 cup cacao powder
Method Combine 3/4 cup of walnuts, one big tablespoon scoop of almond butter, 1/2 cup of raisins, two tbsp of flax meal and two to three tbsp of pure maple syrup.
Below: Lana juggles a busy schedule managing her Sprouts Kids cooking school and her family life.
Process the above together until it just starts to stick and clump. Add more liquid if too dry, add more solid if too wet and not clumping. In another bowl pour one cup of shredded coconut and one cup of puffed rice. For the chocolate binder, combine one cup of melted coconut oil, 3/4 cup of maple syrup and 1/4 cup of raw cacao powder. Add all three components into the same bowl and combine. Place into a small lined baking tray and place in the fridge to set. Slice into squares and enjoy. www.sproutskids.com.au
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 11
Stay
It’s
sun-safe
your life
this summer
IT’S IMPORTANT to protect your skin all year round, especially in summer. And it’s extremely important to protect your children’s skin, as childhood and adolescence are critical periods during which exposure to UV radiation is more likely to contribute to skin cancer in later life. According to SunSmart, research into the effectiveness of role modelling shows us that adopting sun protective behaviours yourself means your children will be more likely to do the same. Parents and children should wear sunscreen daily, but most definitely at times when the UV levels are set to reach three or above. UV can’t be seen or felt, so the best way to know when they are at dangerous levels are to check sun protection times from the free SunSmart smartphone app, the weather section of the newspaper, some radio weather broadcasts, the SunSmart website or the Bureau of Meteorology website. And if you can’t find the daily sun protection times, make sure you use sun protection each day from September to the end of April in Victoria. Don’t just wait for hot, sunny days. If you or your child does experience sunburn, or have a mole or pigmented lesion on the skin that looks different to others, it’s best to get the skin checked. And as always, remember to slip, slop slap and don a hat. SunSmart Tips to keeping you and your child’s skin protected this summer: 1. Slip on covering clothing - if you can see skin, UV can reach it. Try to cover as much skin with cool, loose-fitting clothing. 2. Slop on SPF30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, waterresistant sunscreen - for any skin not covered by clothing, apply a generous amount of SPF30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen about 20 minutes before going outdoors and re-apply every two hours. One application is not enough. Only use sunscreen with other forms of sun protection. Sunscreen should never be used to extend time in the sun. 3. Slap on a hat - a good sun protective hat shades the head, face, eyes, ears and neck. Bucket, wide-brimmed or legionnaire hats are best. Baseball caps do not offer enough protection for the cheeks, ears and neck, and are not recommended. 4. Seek shade - always be sure to keep babies under 12 months well protected and in the shade during the sun protection times. Even in the shade, UV can reflect from surfaces such as sand, glass, brick and concrete, so still use a hat, clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses. 5. Slide on sunglasses - sunglasses are recommended any time you are outside to protect your eyes, which are particularly sensitive to the sun’s UV rays.
' Michelle s makin g A
splash SPLASHDOWN’S Michelle McInnes loves teaching babies and toddlers how to swim. Michelle’s dedication, care and popularity in the pool have been recognised through numerous aquatic industry awards. She was named AustSwim’s Victorian infant teacher of the year and Aquatic and Recreation Victoria’s infants, toddlers and preschool swim teacher of the year. Michelle says all parents should have their babies in the water, undertaking structured lessons with qualified instructors from an early age. “Babies can learn to swim at our Swim Sport and Leisure centres from six months of age.
“In our Webstar’s Swim School program babies are taught through play with purpose, where instructors gain the baby’s trust through fun activities that help them gain confidence being in and around the water. One of the first skills Michelle teaches her babies is how to get back to the side of the pool so they are able to save themselves if they should ever fall into the water. “It’s an invaluable skill to learn that can prevent drowning and save lives,” she says. Children aged from six months can be enrolled in the Webstar’s Swim School program at Leisurelink, Waterworld, Splashdown or Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre.
1238889-47-16
For more information visit www.sunsmart.com.au
Michelle McInnes training another little swimmer at Splashdown.
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 15
It’s
your life
salt therapy a
' drug-free
' alternati ve SALT therapy is a natural alternative to treating children for a range of health issues, advises The Wellness Studio in Geelong. The studio’s drug-free salt therapy room uses a process clinically proven to benefit children with respiratory and skin conditions. The therapy uses the natural healing properties of Himalayan pink salt to detoxify the body and improve how it functions. Dry aerosol micro-particles of Himalayan and pharmaceutical grade salts are dispersed into the customdesigned room during the 45 minute treatment session. Children and adults sit on comfortable chairs in the room as they undergo the treatment, explains the studio’s Maddi Pecar.
The Wellness Studio ’s salt room presents health bene fits for children as well as adults.
It’s anti-bacterial, anti-histamine, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral... can work more efficiently on their congestion. “It can help to clear anything causing blockages, inflammation or congestion. “Our most frequent feedback from parents is how well their children are sleeping at night after salt therapy because they can breathe easier. “The salt room is 100 per cent natural, it’s salt. Kids can just play with it too, it’s natural therapy.”
“The most important factor is not necessarily the salt but the way that it is broken down,” she says.
Maddi says the treatment has benefits ranging from opening up airways to increasing the effectiveness of medication.
“We break the salt down to an aerosol format. It becomes a dry mist that’s pumped into the room.
“It’s anti-bacterial, anti-histamine, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral,” she said.
“Kids respond to salt therapy a lot quicker than adults – the salt therapy
“I suffered from severe eczema as a child which was also very painful.
I no longer need to take steroid inhalers or creams now, because of doing the salt therapy.“
proof float tank is filled with Epsom salts dissolved in 1000 litres of water, 30cm deep and warmed to skin temperature.
Salt therapy can also help with long-term conditions including asthma, allergies, sinusitis and lung problems.
Floating can help with stress management, athletic recovery, sleep disorders, spiritual discovery, meditation and more, Maddi explained.
It can also help with prevention, Maddi says. “Salt therapy works differently for everybody and we have had so much amazing feedback. And all our staff loves the fact that they work in an environment that supports well-being,” she says. Owner Rodney Barratt was initially interested in the health benefits of salt floatation therapy when he opened The Wellness Studio In Geelong just over a year ago now, Maddi said. The studio’s sound-proof and light-
The Wellness Studio in Geelong offers seven days’ unlimited salt therapy for one adult and one child 12 years or under for $60 with each additional child $15. The studio recently installed an infrared sauna, offering a third treatment option that’s up to seven times more effective than normal saunas for eliminating bodily toxins. The Wellness Studio in Geelong is at Shop 11 Stephen Street, Belmont, phone 0476 199 247 or email admin@ thewellnessstudioingeelong.com.
SALT - The miracle mineral... that heals! Mention this ad for
10% off *excluding payment plans
Salt Therapy is a 100% drug-free treatment which has been clinically proven to benefit children with respiratory and skin conditions. OPEN MON - FRI 8.30am - 9pm SAT - SUN 8.30am - 6pm
11 Stephen St. Belmont Ph 0476 199 247 e: admin@thewellnessstudioingeelong.com w: thewellnessstudioingeelong.com The Wellness Studio in Geelong
@TheWellnessStudioInGeelong
12332269-DJ48-16
16 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
Reversible Bandana Bibs from Pikanini
Hello Kitty LED Lamp (All Ages)
www.pikanini.com.au facebook.com/likepikanini Green Toys Submarine (Ages 6m+)
Beanie Boos (All Ages)
instagram.com/pikaninigram
these
These toys available at
are a few of our
Corner Gheringhap and Little Malop Streets, Geelong.
favourite things
www.whalespout.com.au facebook.com/whalespoutAUS instagram.com/whalespout
Classically beautiful clothing and accessories for girls, by Geelong brand Whale Spout
Whale Spout Hair Accessories www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 17
recipes
Kitchen Chocolate pear puddings
magic
Ingredients: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
with the
kids
3 tinned pear halves, drained 50g butter 200g dark chocolate buttons 1/3 cup brown sugar 1 egg 1/2 cup self-raising flour 1.5 Tbsp cocoa powder 6 extra slivers of tinned pear, drained
Method: 1. Preheat oven at 160 degrees Celsius. Line six muffin trays with patty papers. 2. Place pear halves into a food processor and puree until smooth. Measure 1/2 cup of puree. 3. Place the butter and chocolate into a medium sized microwave safe bowl. Heat in the microwave until butter and chocolate have melted, stir gently with a metal spoon to combine well. 4. Add the brown sugar and stir to dissolve into the mixture.
Meg White from Cooking 4 Kids shares some yummy dishes you could create with your children.
5. Add the 1/2 cup of pear puree and stir well.
For more helpful hints and inspiration, visit: www.cooking4kids.net.au Facebook: Cooking4KidsAu or Instagram: cooking_4_kids_au
6. Add the egg and stir until well incorporated. 7. Sift flour and cocoa powder into the mixture, fold through. 8. Spoon the mixture between the patty papers, ensuring there is an even amount in each.
MASSIVE
12332056-EPJ48-16
9. Place a sliver of pear on top of each patty paper. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until firm when gently pressed on top.
Special Kids Meals
Breakfast
Mon, Tues & Wed Dinner only
9am-11.30am Sat & Sun only
1154 Pr inces Hwy Waur n Ponds Phone: 5243 1154
12333920-CG48-16
Children’s Playroom A L L DAY M E N U
w w w. w a u r n p o n d s h o t e l . c o m . a u 18 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
recipes
pear tarte tartin
Quinoa and seed damper Ingredients:
Ingredients: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
1 large pear Splash of lemon juice 1 Tbsp sultanas Pinch of cinnamon 70g caster sugar 20g butter Puff pastry Milk
Method: 1. Preheat oven at 200 degrees Celsius. Lightly grease a baking tray with canola spray and line with baking paper. 2. Cut pear into quarters and remove core. Slice pear into thin slices, place into a medium bowl. Add a splash of lemon juice and carefully coat pear pieces to prevent them from browning. 3. Add sultanas, cinnamon and 35g of caster sugar, stir until well combined. 4. Place the other 35g of sugar into a frying pan over a low heat. Cook, stirring until sugar dissolves and begins to caramelise.
7. Lightly flour your work bench. Roll pastry out until 3mm in thickness. Using a bowl as a guide, cut pastry into a circle, 2cm larger than your baking dish. 8. Place pastry circle over your pears. Tuck excess pastry under the pears. 9. Using a pastry brush, brush pastry lightly with milk. 10. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until pastry is golden. Allow to cool on the tray for a few minutes before turning out of baking dish to serve.
■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
1/4 cup uncooked quinoa 1/2 cup boiling water 1.25 cups self-raising flour 1/4 cup LSA meal 1/2 tsp salt 2 tsp chia seeds 30g butter 1/2 cup milk 1 Tbsp pepita seeds
Method: 1. Place quinoa into a heatproof bowl and cover with boiling water. Set aside for 20 minutes then drain well. 2. Preheat oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking tray with canola spray, then lightly dust with flour. 3. Combine the flour, LSA meal, chia seeds and salt in a large bowl. 4. Using your fingertips, rub butter in until well combined. Make a well in the centre of the mixture. 5. Pour the milk and quinoa into the well. Use a knife to combine the mixture until the dough comes away from the sides of the bowl. 6. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape into a large ball, being careful not to over work the dough. 7. Cut dough into three pieces, shape each piece into a ball and place onto prepared tray. 8. Bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes or until damper makes a hollow sound when tapped. 9. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
5. Add the cut pears and butter. Cook for a few more minutes until pears are tender. Remove from heat. 6. Carefully arrange pears in the bottom of your baking tray.
12332410-CG48-16
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 19
Make your own 'Stained Glass'
Butterfly Sun Catcher MAKE the most of the sunshin e and make your own ’stained glass’ sun catcher in the shape of a butterfly. Mess factor: 2/5 - no smocks requ ired, but your floor may end up covered in tiny bits of tissu e paper. Supplies: Black card or thick pap er, scissors, sticky tape, clear contact paper, a pen and tissu e paper in various colours. Step 1: Draw or trace your butt erfly on your black paper and cut around it. Step 2: Cut out the inside of the wings, leav
ing a 1-2cm border. Step 3: Place contact paper on the table, sticky side up. Sticky-tape the edge to the tabl e to keep it in place. Stick butterfly to the centre of the contact. Step 4: Cut lots of shapes out of your tissue paper - good practice for kids lear ning to use scissors. Step 5: Get sticking! Place tissu e paper on the contact in the butterfly wings. Step 6: Once your wings are complete, smooth another piec e of contact paper over the top of the butterfly. Step 7: Now that the butterfly is all sealed, cut around the frame and discard excess con tact. Step 8: Put on a sunny window and enjo
y!
STEP 1
STEP 2
STEP 3
STEP 4
STEP 5
STEP 6
STEP 7
20 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
parties
' ki d s SUPA
birthday PARTIES
EASY for parents… full-on-fun for the kids… that’s often how people describe a Supatramp birthday party! One thing for certain is that they certainly know how to throw a good party. With 80+ interconnected trampolines, a dodgeball arena, supa-soft air-mats, a three story playground and a fabulous Clip and Climb indoor climbing centre – there’s never a dull moment with a Supatramp party. It’s one of the most action packed and entertaining experiences for kids of all ages. For two hours kids literally flip, jump, climb, dodge and dunk their way to fun!
Bring this ad to receive $25 off any party booked for December 2016, January & February 2017 90 min Parties packages start from $15 a child (min 10 children) Includes a party room for 90 mins and party food Unlimited play time, Unlimited fun time once your party is over you don’t have to leave! Private Venue Hire also available Book on line @ all4kidsplaycentre.com.au or give us a call
Their mid-week party options for under 5s are great value – and great fun! With colourful party rooms, catering options and friendly staff – it’s an awesome party guaranteed! 174 Torquay Rd, Grovedale Ph 5244 1089
including: l l l l
live singing and dancing props and instruments games and activities fun-filled themes to choose from Suitable for children up to 5 years of age
1300 139 631
BIRTHDAY CHILD PLAYS FREE MONDAY - THURSDAY* *not including Public and School holidays, limited to 1 birthday child
Choice of 1.5hr or 2hr party From $15 pp
238 Pakington St Geelong West 3218 5222 4484
Birthday Parties 2 Hours Starting at $21pp Mention this ad to receive
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FOR BOOKINGS CALL
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Crown St, South Geelong Call 5222 5220 or email bookings @ airodrome.com.au
INFO@WILDLIFEXPOSURE.COM.AU WWW.WILDLIFEXPOSURE.COM.AU
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• Using recycled materials • Invitations supplied • Party host • Gift for the birthday child • Gift craft box for guests (additional cost) • BYO food
Ph 5244 5818 urbanupcycle.com.au
Shop 7/147 Marshalltown Road, Grovedale (behind BBQs Galore)
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Open 10am til late everyday (except Christmas day) 89 MALOP ST GEELONG (CITY CENTRE) PH: 1300 TIMEZONE or 5222 6050 www.timezone.com.au
3 Bridge Street, Newtown www.geelongaquaticcentre.com.au
(03) 5244 1089 www.supatramp.com.au
&+2&2/$7( 3$57<
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pirate PAAARTIES â&#x20AC;¢ Pirate themed activities â&#x20AC;¢ Museum host â&#x20AC;¢ Min. 10 children â&#x20AC;¢ Inc. museum admission
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â&#x20AC;¢à¸&#x20AC;Exclusiveà¸&#x20AC;partyà¸&#x20AC;room â&#x20AC;¢à¸&#x20AC;Guaranteedà¸&#x20AC;90à¸&#x20AC;minutesà¸&#x20AC;ofà¸&#x20AC; interactiveà¸&#x20AC;play â&#x20AC;¢à¸&#x20AC;10à¸&#x20AC;xà¸&#x20AC;Powerticketà¸&#x20AC;Games â&#x20AC;¢à¸&#x20AC;1à¸&#x20AC;xà¸&#x20AC;Laserquestà¸&#x20AC;Game* â&#x20AC;¢à¸&#x20AC;Unlimitedà¸&#x20AC;Videoà¸&#x20AC;Games â&#x20AC;¢à¸&#x20AC;Giftà¸&#x20AC;forà¸&#x20AC;theà¸&#x20AC;birthdayà¸&#x20AC;child â&#x20AC;¢à¸&#x20AC;2à¸&#x20AC;Freeà¸&#x20AC;Gamesà¸&#x20AC;forà¸&#x20AC;allà¸&#x20AC;guestsà¸&#x20AC; onà¸&#x20AC;returnà¸&#x20AC;visit â&#x20AC;¢à¸&#x20AC;Freeà¸&#x20AC;Partyà¸&#x20AC;Invites
Pool Parties at Geelong Aquatic Centre â&#x20AC;¢ 2 hours â&#x20AC;¢ Pool open for your party only â&#x20AC;¢ Lifeguard on Duty at all Times â&#x20AC;¢ Party invitations included
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Private room
From .00 $199 0 for 2 n re child
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12333716-HM48-16
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90 mins jumping & climbing
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
45 minutes of entertainment
PLAY CENTRE - PH 5278 8553 Level 1, 57 Church St, Geelong West
2 hour experience
UaTRZ[TQTaah
to your next party!
(Not to be used with any other offer. 1 Voucher per party)
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Have a SUP PA Birthday Party!
12333916-LN48-16
invite
National Wool Museum, 26 Moorabool St Geelong P 5272 4701 nwm.vic.gov.au SUMMER 2016 21
Entertainment
Magical
theatre GPAC at
GPAC’S Love Central Geelong Family Magic Program returns in 2017 bigger and better than ever with six fantastic family productions based on popular children’s stories. Each production comes to GPAC for two performances on one action-packed day. Tickets for all Family Magic performances are $20 each or $18 for groups of four-plus and are available only from GPCA’s box office. Performance dates, times and bookings are available at gpac.org.au The program kicks off with Mr Stink on 25 March. This cdp kids production by Maryam Master brings David Walliams’ awardwinning book to life for children aged 6 to 12. It’s the story of Chloe, just the loneliest girl in the world until she makes friends with local tramp Mr Stink, who takes up secret residence in her family’s garden shed. Kids’ comedians The Listies arrive at GPAC with their award-winning show 6D (*It’s Twice as Good as 3D). The Listies’ sketch comedy forgoes the usual pitfalls of kids’ entertainment such as fairies and princesses, instead getting laughs out of things kids really love, like fart jokes and vomiting puppets. “Best of all, it’s 100 per cent education free,” say The Listies. Slightly more highbrow, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt plays GPAC on 24 June. The international touring production tells the story of a family on the lookout for a fear, with the family dog in tow. A 55-minute mini-musical, the show inevitably leads to the discovery of a big, brown, cuddly bear. Diary of a Wombat plays GPAC on 12 August , based on the picture book of the same name. Children from three-plus will be delighted to meet Mothball, the naughtiest wombat in Australia who created chaos for the humans around her. Another book adaptation, Horrible Harriet, arrives at GPAC on 23 September. Harriet lives in the roof of her school and keeps teachers chained in the cellar to do her homework – but all she wants is a friend. Grug and the Rainbow rounds out the program on 21 October. Also based on a popular picture book, the show will delight kids as Grug embarks on an epic journey to find a rainbow that always seems just beyond his grasp. 24 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
Pirates rule
Entertainment
Swing into central Geelong HEAD into central Geelong this summer to enjoy free activities for the whole family. Each year Central Geelong Marketing releases a summer fun guide which lists all the fantastic festivals, exhibitions, markets, parks, playgrounds and free activities happening in Central Geelong from 31 December 2016 to 31 January 2017. Some highlights of this year’s program include the annual New Year’s
Eve and Australia Day fireworks displays at the Geelong Waterfront, free children’s activities including; puppet shows, hula hoop, tap dance and juggling workshops, craft markets, the Festival of Sails with its accompanying waterfront festival and more. The guide will be released on Tuesday 27 December 2016. You can pre-register to receive a copy of the Summer Fun Guide at centralgeelong. com.au, or you can visit the website on 27 December and download a copy.
Kids and families can get into the swing of summer with central Geelong.
the seas
BATTEN down the hatches - a gruesome band of horrible pirates has taken over Geelong’s National Wool Museum.
Along the way, they’ll discover why pirate women were just as wicked as the men and practise talking the patter of a pirate.
The museum will host Australian National Maritime Museum’s interactive, hands-on exhibition based on the bestselling Horrible Histories book series.
They’ll learn about the ships they sailed on, the punishments they suffered and the rules they lived by. Horrible Histories has been filling children’s heads with foul facts since 1993. As the world’s bestselling children’s history series with over 60 titles published, it’s now also an award-winning TV show on ABC3.
Horrible Histories – Pirates: the exhibition is based on a best-selling series of children’s books was produced in association with Scholastic Children’s Books. The exhibition brings author Terry Deary and illustrator Martin Brown’s unique approach to history to life with foul facts, lively illustrations and gruesome games to take families back in time to the days when perilous pirates ruled the seas. The exhibition challenges families to discover whether they have what it takes to be a really horrible pirate. Visitors can take command of a pirate ship, design their own pirate flag and try out different weapons – from cutlasses to cannons. They’ll find their fate on the wheel of misfortune, discover the best loot to steal and take a pirate selfie.
Kids can let loose their inner-pirates at Geelong’s National Wool Museum.
ARTS & CRAFTS
3rd Annual
LOCAL PRODUCE
SAUSAGE SIZZLE ING
T FACE PAIN
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
MARKET STALLS JUMPING CASTLE
PUMPKIN PAGEANT CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES
12332260-LD48-16
A R M C Y H A 25TH D R U T A S
PETTING ZOO COLOURING IN C
OMPETITION
& LOTS OF PUMPKINS
FULLY ACCESSIBLE EVENT. GOLD COIN DONATION ENTRY. 10AM-2PM THE PADDOCK 21-29 O’HALLORAN RD. LEOPOLD 26 SUMMER 2016
ENQUIRES: 5222 3377 OR INFO@ENCOMPASS-CS.ORG.AU WWW.ENCOMPASS-CS.ORG.AU LIKE ENCOMPASS COMMUNITY SERVICES ON FACEBOOK www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
Entertainment Meet the Indigenous locals at Narana Creations during school holidays.
Cultural treats at FAMILIES can ‘Experience Narana’ with guided cultural tours of Geelong’s premier Indigenous centre during summer holidays. Children will be intrigued as they listen and learn about the world’s oldest living culture with Narana’s expert cultural interpreters during one-and-ahalf-hour guided tours twice daily at 10am and 2pm Mondays to Fridays. Narana’s new School Holiday Guided Tour program is designed as a fun, interactive and educational family activity suitable for all age groups and costs just $15.
Narana
Participants can enjoy an Indigenous cultural artefacts talk or get back to nature while strolling through the Curragundi Native Garrden Walk to learn about traditional bush medicine and food plants.
and lunches, or customers can just enjoy a cup of coffee at Café Narana’s indoor and outdoor dining options.
Along the way, kids can encounter Narana’s emus and wallabies or take an opportunity to learn how to throw a boomerang.
Kids can also explore the adventure playground or join parents to inspect Narana’s retail store.
After the tour they can even paint their own boomerang to take a little bit of Narana home after their visit. Narana also offers all-day breakfasts
Narana’s gallery boasts an extensive collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork on display.
Groups are limited to 20 people per session, departing the Narana Shop. Bookings are recommended by phoning 5241 5700 or emailing amelia@narana. com.au.
Visitor feedback on Facebook is testament to Narana’s guided tours. “Wow, what a fantastic day we had. Thanks Millie for a wonderful tour and for keeping the kids entertained. We also had the best lunch from the new cafe menu!” posted Lisa. “We took a tour with Milly who was so accommodating and generous with her time and knowledge. The kids just loved her. We learnt so much and had a lot of laughs and fun,” posted Emma. Narana Creations is at 410 Torquay Road, Grovedale.
Narana Summer School Holiday Program “Experience Narana” 1 & 1/2 hr Guided Cultural Tours (Tuesday 3rd January - Wednesday 25th January)
Listen & Learn about The Worlds’ Oldest Living Culture from Narana’s expert Cultural Interpreters. •IndigenousArtefactsTalk •NativeGardenWalk-LearnaboutBushTucker&MedicinePlants •MeetNarana’sEmu’s&Wallabies•LearnHowToThrowaBoomerang &PaintYourOwnBoomerangActivity Cost $15 PayOnTheDay. GroupsareLimited to 20 people per session
Tours will run Daily Monday – Friday, Departing from Reception at Narana’s Shop
10am & 2pm Bookings essential pre-register by phone (03) 5241 5700 or amelia@narana.com.au
NARANAABORIGINALCULTURALCENTRE 410SurfcoastHwy,Grovedalewww.narana.com.au Ph: 5241 5700 Email: reception@narana.com.au NaranaOpen:Monday-Friday9am-5pm,Sat10am-4pm•NaranaGalleryOpen:Tues-Friday9am-5pm,Sat10am-3pm(MondayByAppointment) CaféNarana:Open:Tues-Sat9am-3pm 12332918-CG48-16 www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 27
Hello,
Santa Santa Claus and friends have made a colourful appearance at Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre in the lead up to Christmas, thrilling shoppers and children alike.
12320532-CB35-16
28 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
Entertainment
Spouting
kids’ fashi ons
Captain Koala leads kids through a song with music sticks, a drum and a ukulele.
All the fun
kids could bear
BIG smiles were all round at Torquay’s Sun Bear Children’s Festival in October. Children enoyed talks, demonstrations and hands-on activities ranging from Indigenous totem animal yarns to marvelling at displays by Great Ocean Road Coast Committee and Eco Logic. Bending and stretching in animal yoga and painting wildlife rocks were also popular with the young patrons and their parents. Kids roamed the grounds with personalised Wildlife Warrior Cards around their necks on a mission to save endangered animals and to earn ticks on their score charts. The wildlife educational element was woven through all activities on the day so all the children would go home with more knowledge about endangered animals and the need to protect them. Kids gathered endangered wildlife cards, made costumes for the grand wildlife parade and printed their own festival T-shirts. Some were lucky to sit next to Captain Koala on the Kids Train as talented young music students made their debut on stage, while others were drawn into an Indigenous ceremony created especially for the festival.
KATE McLean’s children were her inspiration for clothing label Whale Spout. “I wanted to create unique and beautiful handmade clothes and accessories that were unlike those available through commercial brands,” the Ocean Grove mum says. “I recognised a need for ageappropriate children’s clothing and accessories that encourage and allow kids to dress as kids, and not to dress as mini-adults. Kate says her latest range is for girls aged to six. Bright and colourful, it includes dresses, skirts, shorts, play suits, harem pants, baby rompers, nappy covers, baby wraps and head wraps. “They’re perfect for lunch with the grandparents or for playing in the sandpit,” Kate says. “Importantly for mum, they’re all
100 per cent cotton and easy to wash and care for.” Kate says an ethically-assembled team of tailors in Vietnam make her products “These ladies work in the comfort of their own homes,” she explains. “They’re happy and healthy women who enjoy sewing and are paid fairly for their work. They’re also incredibly talented seamstresses and it is fascinating watching them work.” In November Kate joined forces with LB Couture Dressmaker’s Lainie Brookman to create accessories for Whale Spout. “We have an amazing collection of hair accessories, jewellery and bags perfect for girls and ideal for Christmas. Lainie and I have five daughters between us, so we’ve made sure to seek their approval on every item.”
More information about the event is available at sunbearfestival.com or at its Facebook page.
Little Whale Spout models Grace and Saige, both 8, with Ruby, 6. Picture: Louisa Jones
Wild dance moves were a highlight of the event.
Enrol your children in swimming lessons to ensure they have the skills & confidence for personal survival & water safety.
Leisurelink T: 5243 9595 Waterworld T: 5275 1909 Splashdown T: 5248 4555 Bellarine Aquatic & Sports Centre T: 5256 2111
WWW.SSL.GEELONGAUSTRALIA.COM.AU 1238837-47-16
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 29
journal
a fundrai ser for
THE Australian-made Travel Journal presents a unique fundraising opportunity for schools and community groups. The journals can be used for all types of adventures, from long trips away on the road to quick weekends away, sleepovers at family and friends or international travel adventures. With the journal filled in, all the adventures can also be enjoyed and cherished for years to come. The team behind Travel Journal understands the importance of raising much-needed funds. “We love supporting our local community, so we’re super excited about this amazing fundraising offer we have developed so other families can enjoy our Travel Journals with the bonus of raising money,” the team says. “Our Travel Journal also makes a wonderful gift, which will see purchases from the wider community.
little
travellers
“We also offer a simple online ordering system with no fees or minimum orders. This means interstate family and friends can help with your fundraising efforts, too.” The Travel Journal has 80 pages in a handy, plastic-coated checklist that can be erased for use over and over again. Dotted thirds to practice writing skills and room to add photos, ticket stubs, drawings and more are included.
“All the fun activities at the back of the travel journal are our family favourites and are also free to download from our website,” the team says. “There’ll definitely be journal envy when your children take this to show and-tell after an adventure.” More information about Travel Journal is available by emailing info@ travellingwithkids.com.au or visiting travellingwithkids.com.au.
Travel Journal can help kids remember their adventures while raising money for schools and community groups.
UPCOMING
OPEN DAY
SURF COAST 12332533-48-16
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 31
Christmas for 25
ADAI RS
SPECSAVERS
1. Adairs Kids Light Boxes Mischief Maker (40x30cm; white) $49.95 2. Adairs Baby Little Star Cushion (mint) $39.95 3. Adairs Baby Penny Pom Pom Baby Blankets (pink) $49.95 4. Adairs Kids Flamingo Cushion (fiesta pink) $39.95
18. Finding Dory 01 (green) $199
BAGS ONLY
THIS AN THAT
5. Disney Frozen suitcase bag (blue/ pink) $59.95
22. Lemon and Lime Storage jar (1.7L; glass) $3.99
DYMOCKS
23. 450mL drink container w/straw (blue) $2
6. Roald Dahl Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Go Fish game $9.99 7. Thelma the Unicorn by Aaron Blabey $29.99
COTTON ON KIDS 8. Daydream Wings (silver) $19.99
THE REJECT SHOP 19. Tree decorations (10pk; blue/ silver) $3 20. Decorative trees (3pk; silver) $4
24. Billabong Kaleidoscope One Piece (purple) $59.99
17. Cooper & Co small table (pink) $40
16
25. Coat hangers (5pk; rose gold) $14.99
28. Dream Time Bookends (Pink) $59.99
16. LOVE wooden word (multi) $14
17
27
20
27. N&J Ark Frame $39.99
15. Flamingo umbrella (pink) $19.50
23
TYPO
11. Bobble necklace (assorted) $7.95
HOME SURPRI SES
15
7 5
2
10. Kids round sunglasses (pink) $9.95
14. Queen I’ve crown (windflower glitter) $6.95
4
TONI K
WI LD CARDS & GIFTS
13. Sienna Slip on (gold) $29.95
24 10
21. Battery operated LED lights (20pk; silver) $4
9. Kids Sunglasses (candy stripe) $9.95
12. Hippo Clogs (electric pink) $12.95
14
8
31 11 6
26. ##A08 Keepsake Box Trio $14.99
30
21
1
32 22
29. VW Beetle Classic car (assorted) $16.99 30. Rounds Bonsai Tree w/pot (purple) $17.99
18
19 28
26
31. Splosh Little Ones Bookends (white) $44.99
19 3
32. Disney Time for a Hug Cookie jar $129.99
9
13
12
29
SPECIALIST ORTHODONTISTS MP A R T A P U S AT THE MOST EXPERIENCED ORTHODONTIC PRACTICE IN GEELONG
Let Them Bounce For As Long As They Want!
We specialise in..
Monday to Friday (school terms), y Under 5s,, Unlimited Play.
•CHILDREN&ADULTS•INVISALIGN•CLEARBRACES •LINGUALBRACES•FLEXIBLEPAYMENTPLANS
Dr. Paul C Buchholz Dr. Mark A Scheiner Dr. Nishan Fernando
BDSc (W.A.), LDS (Vic), MDSc (Melb), MRACDS (Orth). FICD MDS (Adel.). B.D.Sc. (Melb.) B.Sc (Otago.) B.D.S (HKU.) Dip.Sci (Otago) D.C.D (Adel.) M.Orth R.C.S (Edin.)
Geelong 255 Pakington St Newtown Phone: 5221 6677 Fax: 5222 3794 Email: admin@bracesnfaces.com.au Office hours: Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm
1224537-PB17-16
•OFFSTREETPARKING •BULKBILLEDCONEBEAMCT/XRAYFACILITIES
LEAP INTO ACTION &
BOOK ONLIN NE www.supatramp.com.au 174 Torquay Road Grovedale, Geelong VIC
(03) 5244 1089 1226409-CB23-16
32 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre retailers present their favourite gi ft ideas for boys and girls this
christmas 28
2
ADAI RS
SPECSAVERS
1. Adairs Kids Jacon Round Stool (white) $49.95
16. Minions 03 (black/yellow) $199
2. Adairs Kids Hobby Horse (black zebra) $24.95
TONIK
3. 18
6
11
4. Adairs Kids Jason Quilted blue cushion (awesome) $39.95 5. Mercer+Reid Velour Beach Towel (95x175cm; ombré) $69.95
4 16
24 20 21
19
8 25
7
3
13
5
27
17 11
26 15
22
23 9
WI LD CARDS & GIFTS
10
20. Splosh little one s-4x6 frame (blue) $17.95 21. Yummy Bear (multi) $109.99
7. Hippo clogs (spots & cherries) $7.50
22. Die Cast VW with sound (red) $31.99
8. Trilby Hat (tomboy blue stripe) $14.95
23. Baby Rocking frame ‘sailing boat’ (silver) $19.99
9. Rocco Hi Top (tomboy blue) $39.95
24. Circus musical carousel (red/ blue) $69.99
10. Pilot Sunnies (gold/smokey) $9.95
25. Be Brave pig money bank (white) $24.99
11. Spring Drink bottle (assorted) $12.95
26. Thomas and Friends 2-piece egg cup set (blue/white) $11.99
DYMOCKS
12
TYPO
COTTON ON KIDS
12. Surfers cap (yeah) $14.95
14
18. Billabong Command Backpack (black) $48
19. Mini Marquee letters (alpha) $9.99each
6. Adairs Kids Light Boxes Awesome (40x30cm; aqua) $49.95
29
1
17. Billabong Seventy 3 Toddler Thong (multi) $12
Adairs Kids Light Boxes (30x30cm; wild; natural) $39.95
13. Simon Micro Series $22.99
27. Ahoy me hearties! Jigsaw (multi) $24.99
14. Mr Chicken Goes to Paris by Leigh Hobbs $29.99
28. Disney Britto Mickey Mouse figurine $250
15. Weirdo Series by Anh Do $14.99each
29. Zoo coffee mug pug (blue) $14.99
Check out our great Play Area!
Geelong Aquatic Centre Family Owned & Operated
Special Kids Meals All Day Menu Excellent Value Meals Spacious Dining Plenty of Parking
INFANT & PRE SCHOOL AQUATICS Child studies at Griffith University QLD prove that infants and preschoolers who participate in learn to swim programs from an early age are physically and cognitively ahead of their peers. Our Infant classes offer the first initial and vital step in your child’s learn to swim journey A fun, explorative and special time for infants, the classes are 30 minutes long in the comfort of a heated, salt-chlorinated pool For a limited time we are offering a FREE trial class for you to try. If you would like to accept the offer or would like more information please contact the centre 3 Bridge Street, Newtown Ph: (03) 5222 5530 admin@geelongaquaticcentre.com.au www.geelongaquaticcentre.com.au 12332049-DJ48-16
Please mention this ad for your free trial
FREE CLASS TRIAL
NORLANE HOTEL 2-8 Princes Hwy, Norlane Ph 5278 2423 WWW.NORLANEHOTEL.COM.AU
1219675-CB10-16
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 33
Games and gadgets
Good summer
read Do Not Open This Book
New Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner
Andy Lee (Lake Publishing)
Guinness World Records 2017
Annabel Karmel (Penguin)
A hilarious new book from radio extraordinaire and all-round funny guy, Andy Lee. Complete with threats, bribes and reverse psychology, young readers will love doing everything they’re asked not to! Do not open this book.
(Pan MacMillan)
The No.1 bestselling cookbook for babies and toddlers contains over 200 delicious recipes to try, easy-to-follow meal planners, useful tips and essential advice. You’ll never be stuck for tasty, nutritious meals with this all-time bestseller and word-of-mouth classic.
The record-breaking record book is back with a fresh new design and thousands of new and updated records, awe-inspiring neverbefore-seen photographs and loads of facts, stats, figures, trivia as well as new Factographic features.
Lots
Doug the Pug
Marc Martin (Penguin)
Leslie Mosier (MacMillan)
From Hong Kong to the Amazon and Ulaanbaatar to Antarctica, come on a guided journey around the world and discover the many things, from sleepy sloths to colourful cows, that make each place unique.
The Sun is als a Star
Doug the Pug is the squishy-faced King of the Internet, spreading love and joy everywhere he goes. Now with this collection of laugh out loud photographs, he’s making his literary debut.
Nicola Yoon (Penguin) Natasha meets a cute boy on a crowded New York City street and falls in love with him, just when her family is 12 hours away from being deported to Jamaica.
Saturday 28 Jan 11am & 2pm Costa Hall, Deakin University, 1 Gheringhap St Geelong On Sale Now 5225 1200 or gpac.org.au • Go to livenation.com.au
Mister Maker ™ & © 2016 The Foundation. Licensed by Zodiak Rights Limited. 12334223-KC48-16
34 SUMMER 2016
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
Games and gadgets
Grumpy Cat Golden Books (Penguin)
The Beast Within
In this story featuring an all-new iconic art style, Grumpy Cat’s friends and admirers try to get her to try new things and have fun, and each time she is even more resolved to say NO.
Serena Valentino (Paper Rocket)
A Frozen Heart Elizabeth Rudnick (Paper Rocket) From Disney’s Frozen, but told in alternating chapters from both Anna’s and Hans’ perspectives, A Frozen Heart takes a sophisticated look at events of Frozen, exploring the couple’s backstories, motivations, and doomed relationship.
A cursed prince sits alone in a secluded castle. Few have seen him, but those who have say his hair is wild and nails are sharp! But how did this prince come to be a reclusive and bitter monster?
I Can Sing, But Where Is My Voice? Ricci Carr (Sid Harta Publishers) 39
Watch Ya’ Mouth
This book aims to give the basic skills required to sing a modern song well. Here you will find a simple step-by-step approach that will teach you the basics of singing and inspire you to pursue your singing dreams.
This hilarious mouthguard party game originated in viral videos, was launched on Kickstarter and is now available at Geelong Mind Games. Lots of laughs as teams of players hampered by cheekretractors attempt to read and interpret or speak phrases while playing the card-based game. Great for ages eight-plus, with virtually unlimited players. Watch Ya’ Mouth is a must for any gathering, party, game night, or family night. The mouthpieces are certified, the cards are thick and durable and the laughs are guaranteed.
Tenzi
Chrissie Krebs (Penguin)
George Ivanoff (Randomhouse) Reverend John Flynn saw the potential for aeroplanes to bring urgent medical care to people in outback Australia. He campaigned for more than 10 years to make this a reality. It became the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
CHESS
2016’s HOTTEST
Grover McBane: Rescue Dog Claire Garth (Piccolo Nero) Grover loves his job looking after all the other rescue dogs at the animal shelter. But one day a new dog arrives who needs Grover’s help more than anyone before. Benji is blind.
BOARD GAMES
NANOBLOCK
HUGE RANGE
NEW GAME RELEASE
FOR ALL AGES
KIDS GAMES
Geelong’s Largest Specialty Games Shop GROUP FUN
Special
?
Requests
12329894-CG45-16
Lovely Santa brings joy and gifts to children around the world. He loves snacking on the treats children leave for him, but he isn’t so good at washing his face and combing his beard. He’s a slob.
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
Huge Range
JIGSAWS
Postal Orders
Table Games
What if Aladdin had never found the lamp? This paperback edition of the first book in the A Twisted Tale line will explore a dark and daring version of Disney’s Aladdin.
Meet the Flying Doctor
Tenzi gives each player 10 dice to roll 10 of the same number first and as fast as they can. Available from Mind Games, Tenzi sounds ridiculously simple but it’s actually ridiculously addictive – and popular with all ages. A deck of cards, called 77 Ways to Play Tenzi, adds a new twist to each round of the game. For example, players might have to roll with one hand or perform some simple addition, etc. This game’s been a hot-seller overseas, so it might be worth seeing what the fuss is all about during downtimes over summer holidays.
Shop 55 Level 1, Market Square Cnr Moorabool & Malop St, Geelong VIC 3220 www.mindgames.net.au | 03 52 226 100 So Much to choose! GRAB A GIFT VOUCHER
POKER
MODELS
Liz Braswell (Paper Rocket)
There is Something Weird with Santa’s Beard
PUZZLES
Expert Advice
Ed Sp uc G ec atio am ia n es lity al
A Whole New World, A Twisted Tale
SUMMER 2016 35
reality bites
SAY WHAT! We asked ...
you answered! GCK: At what age do you think it is appropriate to discuss all the details about the birds and the bees with your kids? Louisa: Good question! My sister is going through this issue with her school at the moment, as their school is doing the talk. I too would love to hear parents thoughts on age. Kim: We started age appropriately at four-years-old. Every time they ask another question as they get a bit older they get a bit more information. My nine-year-old has the basic facts, has seen a few videos of home births etc, and understands about periods. Rebecca: I just say give them age appropriate answers when they ask and don’t brush it aside.
GCK: We want to know. Does anyone know the tooth fairies going rate for a front tooth? Rebecca: (The tooth fairy) gave my daughter $10 for front two big ones and $5 for all others. Noelene: $2 Dean: Usually $2 a gold coin swap over.
GCK: A woman has made headlines after telling of how a stranger took a dummy out of her two-year-old’s mouth and told the child that they were too old for it. We want to know: Is it ever appropriate to give your parenting opinion or advice to anyone else (friends, family or strangers) when they don’t ask for it? When and why? Angie: So rude to do that! If you’re not asked for an opinion keep it to yourself I say... Megan: So wrong! My son sucks his thumb and you wouldn’t believe the people who have an opinion on it. He only does it if he’s tired, sad or scared so the last thing he needs is someone ’paying him out’ at a time when he feels like sucking it. If my dentist and I don’t have an issue with it why should anyone else?!
www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
SUMMER 2016 37
' kids
kalendar
5, 12, 19, 26 JANUARY Nightjar Festival 4-10pm. Featuring Live Music, market stalls and tasty food Torquay Common, Torquay www.nightjarfestival.com.au
7 JANUARY - 25 FEBRUARY Rhythm of Africa Every Saturday during January and February head to Werribee Open Range Zoo for an evening of live African muisc, African-inspired food, animal viewing and kid’s activities 4.30 - 8.30pm Free entry for Kids under 16 www.zoo.org.au/werribee
ON NOW UNTIL APRIL 2017 Horrible Histories - Pirates: The Exhibition Do you have what it takes to be a pirate? The exhibition, visiting from Sydney, is interactive and hands-on, full of lively illustrations, foul facts and gruesome games, and is sure to be a hit with the whole family. National Wool Museum, 26 Moorabool Street, Geelong
16-23 DECEMBER
12 Days of Christmas Market From 10am to 3pm daily, watch and meet local artists in action and have the opportunity to purchase from them. All sale proceeds go direct to the artists themselves.
27 JANUARY - 11 MARCH
3, 10, 17, 24 FEBRUARY
Zoo Twilights
Nightjar Festival
Experience some of the best local and international musicians live at the Melbourne Zoo and join in the fight against wildlife extinction. Explore the Zoo at dusk, then settle under the stars for the show.
4-10pm
www.zoo.org.au/melbourne
The festival moves from Torquay to Geelong in February offering more live music, market stalls and taste sensations Johnstone Park, Geelong www.nightjarfestival.com.au
National Wool Museum 26 Moorabool Street, Geelong Information nwm.vic.gov.au or 5272 4701.
Information nwm.vic.gov.au or 5272 4701.
10 AND 17 DEC Bellarine Railway Santa Train Get into the Christmas spirit with these fun short tips on the Bellarine Peninsula’s volunteer-run rail line at 10am, 11am, noon and 1pm. Bookings and inquiries 5258 2069 or bellarinerailway.com.au
16 DEC Rock School for Kids Cultcha Kids Geelong is calling all future Rockstars to participate in this show from 5pm to 7pm. Aspiring musicians and singersongwriters are invited to perform on stage with help from the crew at High Voltage Rock School. Free sign up and entry. Information dan@hvrs.net.au or hvrs. net.au 38 SUMMER 2016
31 DECEMBER-31 JANUARY Cen t ral Ge e long Summe r F un Highlights include New Year’s Eve and Australia Day fireworks displays at the waterfront, free children’s activities, craft markets, Festival of Sails and more. A full run down will be available in the Summer Fun Guide, available from 27 December. Information centralgeelong.com.au www.geelongcoastkids.com.au
' kids
kalendar
16-20 JANUARY
18 FEBRUARY
Angry Birds Activity Centre
Geelong Baby and Children ' s Market
Make your own bird lantern and meet Red, Chuck and Bomb from the Angry Birds movie. 11am to 2pm daily outside Target at Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre.
9-13 JANUARY
' N a ra n a s S u m m e r Scho o l H o l i d ay P r o gr a m
Trolls Activity Centre
22 MARCH
The Aviary
Play School concert, Prince of Bears
Bring the whole family to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Experience Naranaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; with guided cultural tours. Listen and learn about the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest living culture with Naranaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expert cultural interpreters on 1.5-hour guided tours daily during holidays.
Sessions 11am to 2pm daily outside Target at Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre.
Cost $15, with bookings essential on 5241 5700 or amelia@narana.com.au
7-8 AND 21-28 JANUARY ' Bellarine Railway s Day Out With Thomas
Sing along with all favourites including Big Ted, Humpty, Jemima and two popular TV presenters. South Barwon Civic Centre, Geelong
26 JANUARY
Make your own photo frame and meet Poppy and Branch from DreamWorks movie Trolls.
facebook.com/ geelongbabyandchildrensmarket
21-26 JANUARY
Make a garden bird feeder at The Aviary activity centre, open 11am to 2pm daily outside Target at Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre.
3-27 JANUARY
9am-1pm, Barwon Valley Activity Centre
'
Australia Day Children s Free Fun Day Over 40 free activities and displays for families and children to enjoy. Live entertainment including Dazzling Danâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s magic show and Geelongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own The MikMaks, plus childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amusement rides, face painting, pony and train rides, a jumping castle, animal farm and much more. Rippleside Park. Bell Parade, Drumcondra. Information www.geelongaustralia. com.au/events
Bookings www.kidspromotions.com.au, 1300 788 028 (landlines) or 9739 6300 (mobiles).
25 MARCH
ALL SUMMER Mr Stink
Kids will love meeting all their favourites from the popular namesake show and DVD series.
Pick Your Own Vegetables The Paddock, Leopold
@
Bookings and inquiries 5258 2069 or bellarinerailway.com.au
Bring the kids to The Paddock 10amnoon Fridays to pick fresh produce straight from the ground. First in, best dressed - BYO bag.
GPAC kicks off itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2017 Love Central Geelong Family Magic Program bringing to life David Walliamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; awardwinning book Mr Stink. Suitable for children 6-12 and adults. Bookings gpac.org.au or 5225 1200
No set price but donations accepted. 21-29 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Halloran Road, off Melaluka Road. Proudly presented by Encompass Community Services.
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