Geelong Coast Kids Autumn 2018 by Star News Group

Son ' s fundraiser

inspiration

STYLISH SUPERMUM JULIA GREEN

Holiday

fun

WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO DO IT

KIDS

AUTUMN 2018

A Star N News Group Publication bl

booked in AT GALLERY

contents 13 4

17 Reality Bites Couple gets twins - twice! Page 31 Footy fun Page 32

Health H New women's clinic N Page 16 P Win an awesome cubby W P Page 17

The new child care subsidy explained

Angie's catch-up: Angie Hilton chats with Julia Green, interior stylist, writer, producer, speaker, TV host and consultant.

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Page 8-11

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Your Life

Kids book with a powerful message

Page 12

Education Education

Games and Gadgets Book and Toy Reviews Page 33

Page 18-22 How much screen time is too much?

Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kalendar Pages 34-35

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Entertainment Kids' parties Page 24 Celebrity boost to diabetes fundraiser

School holiday fun

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Page 25-28

Enter the world of mindful parenting

Torquay kids lead clean-up

Illustrators take over gallery

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Page 13

Page 29

Quiet Hour catching on

Bully battler pens book

Slimy fun

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Foster carers urgently needed in the Geelong area.

31 mackillop.org.au/fostercare

Can you give a child a safe, supportive home for a few days, a few months or longer? lives of children and young people. Please contact MacKillop Family Services for more information. Call us today

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Find out how you can make a real difference to the

1300 791 677

2 AUTUMN 2018

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about us . . .

Green and gold for

autumn CAN you believe we are already in autumn?

I can’t, and I also can’t believe that I am now one of those people that marvels at how fast the year is going, but I think when you have kids it really hits home how quickly the year races by. Everyone is well and truly back at school, kinder and work now - I hope your kids settled in well, especially if they are starting prep or year 7. As my kids approach their teens, the thought of how the world operates these days does scare me a little. With social media, there seems to be no downtime, which is awful for kids who are experiencing bullying and are unable to escape the constant chatter. You might have heard of Max Green, the teen who moved to Barwon Heads from Melbourne a few years ago, picked up a golf club and achieved a scratch handicap after only two years in the sport - an amazing achievement. Max was bullied for two horrific years in Melbourne, both in the schoolyard and online, and golf provided a welcome escape. Max’s mum, Julia Green, is a force to be reckoned with. She has a thriving career with her hugely successful design company - Greenhouse Interiors - a beautiful home and two gorgeous boys, Max and Jessie, as well as husband Adam, who she met at just 15. I spoke to Julia about family, ‘having it all’,

bullying, anxiety, parenting and interior design. Catch-up with Julia on pages 8-11. Julia said her mum told her that parenting was a series of moments; some good and some not so great. If you feel like your moments have been out of balance lately, check out Dr Maxine Therese’s great tips on page 6 on mindful parenting. If you want to find out what’s happening with the new childcare subsidy that’s being introduced in a few weeks, check out page 4 - if you have kids in long day care, family day care or out-of-school-hours care, it could mean more or less dollars in your pocket. We also have a stack of real-life reads, and local entertainment and events that will keep you busy during the school holidays.

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 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.

Son ' s fundraiser

Make sure you like us on facebook. com/GeelongCoastKids for the latest news and events as they happen.

p inspiration

See you there!

Holiday

STYLISH SUPERMUM JULIA GREEN

fun

WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO DO IT

KIDS

Angie Hilton

AUTUMN 2018

A Star News N Group G P Publication bl

booked in AT GALLERY

COVER: Herne Hill's Max Lynch, 2, catches up on some reading at Geelong Gallery against the backdrop of Julia Gorman's Energy in a Field of Energy 2017. Picture: Louisa Jones

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AUTUMN 2018 3

Childcare shake-up The new Child Care Subsidy aims to provide more assistance to low and middle income families.

the fees charged and the subsidy amount.

THE Federal Government's new Child Care Subsidy will be rolled out in a few weeks - and if you are a working parent, it is probably going to mean more dollars in your pocket.

To be eligible, children must be aged 13 or under, attend a Long Day Care Centre, Family Day Care or Out of School Hours Care, meet immunisation requirements and have a parent that is an Australian resident.

The single, means-tested Child Care Subsidy will replace both the Child Care Benefit (CCB) and Child Care Rebate (CCR) and is accompanied by a $3 billion funding injection from Canberra. Starting on 2 July 2018, the new subsidy will be paid directly to providers and aims to provide more assistance to low and middle income families. Families will make a 'co-contribution' and get billed the difference between

limit, while those earning between $185,710 and $350,000 will have an annual cap of $10,000 per year, per child, which will increase with CPI.

if you have a disability, or are in prison.

However as with everything, the devil is in the detail - and the activity test could prove a kicker for some families.

Families on a combined income of $65,710 or less will have access to 24 hours of subsidised child care per fortnight without having to meet the activity test.

Under the old CCB and CCR system, families can access 24 hours of subsidised child care regardless whether they work outside of the home.

The new subsidy will cover 85 per cent of Child Care fees for low income families earning under $65,710 and 50 per cent of fees for families earning between $170,710 and $250,000. In good news for parents that have their children in care multiple days a week or full time, the old CCB cap of $7,500 will be abolished.

Under the new subsidy, this will be scrapped, and both parents must meet the basic activity test - you must be in paid work, working unpaid in the family business, volunteering, studying,

Families earning less than $185,710 a year will not be subject to any subsidy

actively looking for work, or on paid parental leave. Exemptions are granted

Your hours of activity will determine how many hours of subsidised child care you are eligible for.

Government modelling shows that around 816,000 families will be betteroff under the new funding scheme, by an average of $1500. About 128,000 families will be worse-off under the overhaul, mainly because they will not meet the activity test. To check your eligibility, go to www.education.gov.au

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The T1 Troopers Emma Smitten, Amanda Lenehan, Philippa Sharp and Jennie Gray at last year's race meet.

SON'S DIABETES By Luke Voogt

inspires FUNDRAISER “Not only do we get to do something for these kids but it’s about us getting together and having a laugh and a wine.”

“We have all been inspired by his journey and want to raise funds to help find a cure,” Philippa says.

Philippa explains. “It’s quite lovely - often they won’t go out into the playground when Isaac needs to have tests. They’ll sit in the classroom and keep him entertained.“ GCK’s sister publication, the Geelong Indy, spoke to Isaac’s mum in October 2016. At the time Amanda had held sales, walked and skydived to raise about $20,000 in six years for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation with the T1 Troopers. She has even written a book to help Isaac, who has had a stomach pump since age three, to explain his condition to other kids. The Grovedale mum says she would give anything to find a cure for her son. “I’d sell the house - it wouldn’t matter how much it would cost,” Amanda says. And the T1 Troopers are stepping up their efforts to help her, raising another $20,000 in the past two years.

Often Isaac’s mates help him if he has a “hypo” - a hypoglycaemic event where his blood sugar levels drop,

“If anything our bonds have become stronger and we’ve expanded our charity work,” Philippa says.

Contact the T1 Troopers for tickets to the race day by emailing T1.Troopers@ gmail.com or phoning 04 0030 7712

WOMEN’S football pioneer Susan Alberti has given a group of Geelong mums a celebrity boost in their efforts to make diabetes history. The former Western Bulldogs vice president, businesswoman and renowned philanthropist will be guest speaker at the T1 Troopers Race Meet, at Geelong Racecourse on 27 May. “We were gobsmacked she said yes,” said T1 Trooper Philippa Sharp. “We’re so excited she is going to be part of our day.”

Philippa is confident Dr Alberti, who has raised money for diabetes most of her life, will help their cause. “It’s going to be a dream come true to meet her because we’ve always admired her greatly - we’re inspired by her philanthropy.” Dr Alberti’s daughter Danielle died by her side from diabetes-related complications as they flew from New York to Australia for a mother-daughter kidney transplant. Known for her involvement in creating the women’s AFL, Dr Alberti has spearheaded millions of dollars in fundraising for diabetes research in her daughter’s honour.

Susan Alberti 12372832-CG49-17

The T1 Troopers met several years ago, thanks to the “beautiful friendship” of their children with group member Amanda Lenehan’s son Isaac - who has type 1 diabetes.

The mums are hoping this year’s race meet can smash last year’s mark of $8000.

ENGLISH & MATHS

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AUTUMN 2018 5

Mindful parenting involves stepping into a state of wonder with our children.

The wonder of

mindful parenting By Dr Maxine Therese EVEN with the best intentions, we may find ourselves parenting in ways that are not as conscious or mindful as we would like. Parenting requires a lot of energy and focus, and trying to meet the day-to-day demands of your children, as well your own needs, can become overwhelming. Being overwhelmed makes it impossible for us to be open and present to our children's needs. Instead we may find we are distracted and closed - in a survival mode of sorts. This way of relating creates more distance and tension in our relationship with our children. Thankfully, at any moment we can adopt more mindful ways of being with children which will not only support them, but also relax our nervous system's responses to stress. If we can enter a state of wonder with our children, a state I call 'Being in the Question', we can pause and focus on what is happening in the present moment rather than being occupied with the to-do list or in a rush to get to the next thing. This also allows you to let go of the pressure that you might sometimes put on yourself by thinking you have to do something for your child or fix something about them.

When you have the space to see beyond the behaviour to the important need it is expressing, you might notice for example: â&#x2013; A child's anxiety is communicating that they are feeling unsure and insecure and have a need to be safe and secure â&#x2013; A child's rebellion is communicating that they are feeling restricted in some situations and have a need to act â&#x2013; A child's anger is communicating that they are feeling unloved or heartbroken and have a need to love From a space of wonder then, when your child does something you might normally react to or reprimand, you can pause and have the space to ask 'I wonder what my child must be feeling to respond to life that way?' When you explore what your child might be experiencing, you will begin to align and attune more with your child and have the space to ask them what they are feeling and thinking. This way you are not focusing on prohibiting behaviours or wanting to fix something. Rather, you are attempting to understand what your child's behaviours mean for your child. You are working with the child by accepting all their behaviours and finding better ways to support their feelings and thoughts. This approach empowers children to value their important body expressions and behaviours as vital messages, which allows them to explore their own needs and develop selfcompetency and emotional awareness. You can find out more about 'Being in the Question' - being mindful in your parenting - and the Foundational Needs Model of Dr Maxine Therese at www. childosophy.com

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'Being in the Question' allows you to relax in the right space to begin to sense and feel what is surfacing in you, when something is occurring with your child. This practice allows you to pause and to openly welcome and accept all of your own sensations, feelings and thoughts as they arise in you, before you react. You might be more mindful of your feelings and thoughts in meditation in the times you are not with your children - so you have some practice. Then if you can remain in the question with your children's behaviours, when your child demands attention or is acting out (which are not always easy to tolerate)

you can be open to feeling what messages and signals are contained within your child's behaviours.

)FMQ ZPVS $IJME *NQSPWF UIFJS -FBSOJOH BOE #FIBWJPVS Claire Hocking Educational Kinesiologist and Brain Gym Consultant

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Supatramp is the latest in a series of businesses to introduce a ''Quiet Hour'' for visitors who experience sensory overload.

Quiet hour bounces into trampoline centre A low-sensory hour program, widely known as 'Quiet Hour', has arrived at Geelong's largest indoor trampoline and climbing activity centre. Supatramp will run regular 'Quiet Hour' sessions after a trial of the program proved a great success. The centre is the latest in a series of major businesses to have introduced the initiative which accommodates people who experience sensory overload, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Supatramp turned off all music, radio and televisions, and ceased PA announcements, dimmed the lighting and deployed extra staff to assist visitors during its 'Quiet Hour'. It also removed the requirement to wear wristbands and turned off all arcade games to minimise distractions. General Manager Mark Fountain said the trial was a huge success and Supatramp had now introduced 'Quiet Hour' as a regular session.

The centre plans to run the session from 4pm-5pm on the first and third Thursday of every month. It also hopes to introduce more sessions in the future and is encouraging other businesses to get on board. Grovedale mother Lisa Bingham who attended the first 'Quiet Hour' with her two daughters said the session was amazing. "Instead of jumping only in the back corner or the toddler area, my children had the run of the place. They leapt off the tallest platform and jumped on every trampoline," she said. Kate Harvey said her children had a fantastic experience and would return for more lowsensory sessions. "Thank you Supertramp for recognising the needs of so many by offering 'Quiet Hour' and putting your name out there in the community as a place of inclusion for all," she said. Those interested in Supatramp's 'Quiet Hour' sessions can stay updated on the centre's website and Facebook page.

Supatramp, Geelong's largest indoor trampoline and climbing activity centre, minimises distractions for visitors during ''Quiet Hour''.

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"We were able to get feedback from parents which was important for us so that we could get the trial right. This was really a way for us to meet the needs of our visitors and create an environment that was both

welcoming and inclusive," Mr Fountain said.

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AUTUMN 2018 7

your life It’s

The Green family: Max, Jesse, Julia, and Adam Green on the 13th Beach course.

Julia Green Name: Julia Green Day job: Founder of Greenhouse Interiors, interior stylist, writer, producer, speaker, brand ambassador, TV host, consultant and mum to two gorgeous boys. Family in a snapshot: Husband: Adam Green Three words to describe your husband: So sensible, smart, dependable. Son 1: Max Green Age: 15 Three words to describe Max: Intense, focused, determined. Son 2: Jessie Green Age: 8 Three words to describe Jessie: Hilarious, snuggly, giving.

Interview: Angie Hilton Pictures: Lousia Jones I fell in love with Julia before we even met. To be honest I didn’t even know who she was at the time, but I ended up in her house (while she wasn’t there) to interview her inspirational son Max on how he overcame bullying. 8 AUTUMN 2018

Julia’s husband Adam greeted me at the door of their 13th Beach house, positioned right on the golf course. I took one step in the front door of her house and my jaw dropped. It felt a bit magical as I wandered down the corridor trying to stay present to the conversation with Adam but internally drinking everything in that my eyes landed on.

This house has serious ‘feel’ - each piece of art, furniture and trinket has so much character and purpose. I started raving to Adam about his amazing taste and, in true humble ‘Green style’, he said “Oh, my wife is a stylist so I’ll give her all the credit.“ It wasn’t until after I left and did a little internet stalking that I found out it was famous stylist Julia Green’s house from Greenhouse

Interiors. I knew I had to catch-up with and pick the brain of such a successful woman who has raised two beautiful boys and has a thriving career. Could she really have it all? Does she have the magic elixir of work/life balance? Also, I really wanted to find out how, as a family, they dealt with watching their son Max go through two years of horrific bullying. www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Julia relaxes at home with Max, Jesse and pet dog Wolfy.

Julia! I finally get to meet you in the flesh. I’ve been devouring all your Greenhouse Interiors content on Instagram and your website, and I’m feeling so inspired to give my home an overhaul. How did your career as a stylist begin? Great to meet you too Angie, and thank you for your kind words. It’s actually a hilarious story. I was heavily pregnant; in fact Jesse was due to be born that day! I was selling a couch on eBay (as you do when you’re pregnant - sell everything that’s not nailed down). So I get a knock at the door and in came this stranger wanting to buy my couch. He walked in and started looking around at everything. I actually started getting nervous, thinking that I was about to be robbed. He must have picked up on my apprehension and apologises for being such a sticky beak. He asked “Who do you style for?” My response was “What ebay?” I was so naive. I didn’t even know what a stylist did. I’d been in the pharmaceutical game for 17 years. Yes, I was a professional drug peddler (laughs). He handed me his card that said Vogue Photographer and told me that if I wasn’t a stylist I was in the wrong job. It was a complete sliding doors moment. I was so flattered but also in shock. I knew my current job didn’t crank my tractor but I also didn’t know if I was capable. When my maternity leave came up I thought ’there has to be more to life than the corporate existence’. That actually never sat well with me. I plucked up the courage to call him and the rest is history. It sounds like it would be such a glamorous life. Honestly that is the biggest misconception. It’s far from glamorous. People don’t realise how physical it is. www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

We basically move into a house and move out of a house every day. I remember turning up on the first day in heels up with my nails done perfectly. Well, to my surprise, I was up and down ladders, scrubbing floors, lifting heavy furniture. Reality set in very quickly. As hard as it is, your fierce passion for it is very obvious. It’s an addiction - a real adrenaline rush. I must admit in the thick of it I ask myself, ‘Why am I doing this? This is so so hard!’ and then you get to end and I think it’s just like childbirth where it’s a moment in time. My mum always said having children is all about moments. It’s a series of moments and some of them are so good and some of them are so crap! (laughs). The ‘moment’ for me is when I’m presented with a blank empty room and I have to create a whole space that creates an emotion. Let’s say I do this to eight rooms in one day. When it gets to 6pm I stand back and give myself a tiny high five. I can see why you’re so successful, because not only are you super passionate and creative, but you have so much energy. I imagine it’s very hard for you to slow down. Now, this is my greatest downfall of all. In fact, I recently got given a cup that says ’Sleep is Overrated’. In other words, people have come to associate me with this ferocious appetite of energy, which is all very good and well, but what happens is the people who suffer the most as a result of that are my own family. I really don’t know if the word ‘balance’ exists. I do think it’s fictitious. I think people who have their own business find it the hardest. I’ve allowed myself to have one sick day in eight years. Whereas a common cold

would have stopped me in my tracks when I worked in the corporate world (laughs). I’m all orr nothing. I’m all 99.9 per cent but the .01 per cent where I’m not, I’m a complete wreck. And I don’t advocate that to anybody because when h I’m down I go down with a thud - both physically and emotionally. My husband watches the slide and warns me it’s coming. We’ve been together since I was 15. He’s the grounding force in my life. Without him I would be off rocking in a corner. Does it ever spill over into anxiety? Yes it does. I found anxiety kicked in after the birth of Jesse. It’s not something I’ve ever spoken about publicly. Because of my background in pharmaceutical and, I knew enough about mental health to realise where I was headed. I sought help very quickly and was very open about it with my family who were a great support. They popped me on to some anti-anxiety medication for a time. I think after having Jesse the intense feeling of responsibility really hit me and I had this overwhelming sense that I wanted to make things perfect for my children. Also, since running my own business I feel way more nervy and anxious than I ever did in a normal job.

Is that because there are no boundaries with your own business? You can work in the middle of the night if you want to. And I do. That’s the problem, because nothing is ever finished. There’s no time I can ever sit down, relax and say “aah, thank God, it’s all done now”. With every single job I do, the next one is waiting, and the next one, and the next one. And with a natural tendency to want to give, you feel terrible letting anyone down. I feel tired hearing you. I want to send you on a holiday. Oh please ... just pack me up and send me off! AUTUMN 2018 9

“

The greatest thing we learned was about bystanding. I am so passionate about teaching Jesse and other young ones you must not watch this go on, you must speak up. How did your younger son Jesse go throughout all of this period? How could the other parents just ignore it? Well this is the root of the problem. It all starts at home and if the children’s parents can’t see the wood for the trees you’re up against it. I don’t pretend my kids are perfect; if someone came to me saying we have a problem with Jesse or Max because of XYZ, I would investigate that. I would not say “my child would never do that”. Those in denial are so much to blame for perpetuating this crappy situation. We started him at a new school only four weeks into the year. He fortunately had a fabulous year and the new school really nurtured him through it. As painful as it was, he has learned some great life skills - resilience being a huge one. As a parent, what was your biggest takeaway from the whole situation?

Well you’re obviously made of pretty tough stuff, as are your boys Max and Jesse. I had the privilege of interviewing Max about how he overcame the affects of bullying. How did it all unfold? Did you know he was being bullied right from the start? Yes, he was a lot more open when he was younger. Now he’s an obstinate teenager who I’m lucky to get a grunt out of (laughs). That’s a whole other story - how to parent teenagers. My goodness! On a serious note, we always fostered very open communication. It wasn’t hard to pick the problem. We could see emotionally and physically what was happening. The difficulty was in getting them addressed. Was the school helpful? They were absolutely useless. Horrid actually. We put up with it for two years and then withdrew Max from the school. We had countless meetings with the principal and, at one point, we even had to engage the Department of Education because things were so hairy. The school and the families involved were in complete denial. It was just a shattering experience all round.

So did the bully keep at him through throu that whole period? Yep, the whole time. To the point that the school ended up allocating one teacher for recess and lunch to shadow Max like a bodyguard. And the moment the teacher left to go back to the classroom, Max got knocked to the ground and hit his head on the concrete. That was the day where we just said, you’re not going back. So you can imagine the emotional consequences that Max went through. He totally withdrew and stopped eating. It got so bad that he was hospitalised for what we thought was appendicitis because he was in so much agony. After two days of testing, the doctors announced it as pure anxiety.

The greatest thing we learned was about bystanding. I am so passionate about teaching Jesse and other young ones you must not watch this go on, you must speak up. The most disappointing aspect of the situation was that there were about 10 families that knew what was going on and said nothing. It was like they had their fingers in their ears. It was disgusting!

He was only young, but over time he has really taken a lot away from the situation. I’m so proud of how Jesse reacts in the schoolyard these days. If he sees anything unjust he storms up there and with his big voice he says “That’s not right. That’s not fair. How do you think you’d feel if someone said that?” It makes us so proud. What is your relationship like with the boys in a nutshell? Jesse is like a male version of me. We love to get in the bath at night and chew the fat about the day. He’s still young enough to tell me everything that’s going on in his life. Jesse and I have also started meditating before bed each night. It feels very difficult for me to sit still for any length of time but it’s a nice thing for us to do together. Max on the other hand has just hit that teenage point where they really go in to themselves. It was like a switch was flicked when he turned 15. I’m really struggling with it, but from all accounts its what every teenager goes through. So brace yourself!

That must have been so painful for you both to watch as parents. What steps did you take from there? It was a long process. After we withdrew him from school we engaged professional help straight away. We received absolutely nothing from the other parents despite handling it as best as we could.

Did you contact the parents of the bully? Well you follow the protocol, which is to go to the school first so it’s handled appropriately. We were happy to abide by the rules as we hadn’t been through anything like this before. I mean, who gives you a rule book telling you what to do if your child is bullied? We learned pretty quickly that nothing was going to happen. So we did end up contacting the family directly.

10 AUTUMN 2018

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Oh dear, thanks for the heads up. That means I have seven more years with Sonny. I’ll stop taking it for granted! Now you guys made the sea change down to this beautiful part of the world to the gated community of 13th Beach Estate. Have you ever looked back? We call it our bubble. I don’t think I could ever move back to the city. I love the fact that I can drive through those gates and, as I watch them close behind me, I breathe a huge sigh off relief. It’s like no one can get to me. I w li llike ke ke then stick my head out the window hatt ha a dog as I drive in and breathe in that sea air. Bliss!

Tell us about the love of your life Adam. He is rock solid. He’s unshakeable. We met at 15 and I just knew he was the one. I feel quite pathetic saying this, but without him I just don’t know how I’d get through a day. He holds this family together like superglue. I think we’re a great team. He sums up everything I respect and love as a person. He’s a good egg.

And lastly, do you have a take away styling tip for our GCK readers? Be authentic. Don’t look at other people’s style and try to copy. Find things that make you feel something. Then you end up with a true home that represents you as a person. Colour is like an emotion you can dial up and down. Some people get energised by bright colours and others don’t. Know what works for you rather than copy what’s in the pages of a m ma maga aga g zi z ne ne. magazine.

Thank you so much for sharing your life with us Julia. So many insights for us to take away. You are most welcome.

Check out www.greenhouseinteriors.com.au

Moving to 13th Beach really turned ed d Max’s life around in an unexpected e way wouldn’t you say? I believe he has his sights on becoming a pro golfer? Yes, he took up golf when we moved ov ved here and has really found his true passion. He is now playing off two nd d under (I used to call it minus two and get laughed at). I love the fact that he has golf and he has a lot of natural ability, but it can also be his biggestt t, so so challenge. He is such a perfectionist, if he has a bad day on the course he ut storms around and wants to take it o out ntal on everyone. He knows it’s the mental he side of things that can take him to the next level. What about highlight moments with th e? the kids. Do you have one for Jesse? Oh, so many. I loved seeing Jesse e ch last year win the class award, which was all about being a good person. IItt was all about values. He was the person that people felt was most at supportive and easiest to talk to. That made Adam and I exceptionally y proud because at the end of the day ans ns. all we want is to create good humans. And a highlight moment for Max? His birth. The first human we created together. I remember them ng putting him on my chest and looking down at him thinking you are ok k exactly how I pictured you, you look exactly like your dad. I felt like I’d been hit by a truck with love and I can still feel that feeling now. And to watch Adam pick up his son for e the first time was just magical. There are a thousand moments that are amazing and having said that there are equally as many of frustration. I’m not going to gloss over it and say that parenting is blissfully perfect. But at the end of the day they’re really good boys with good hearts and that’s all that matters to us. What’s one piece of advice you’d give other parents? Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice. People tend to give you advice when you have a baby but then it all stops. But once you’re through the baby phase you’re still learning. Ask people you trust what they do. Always let them know how much you love them and it’s unconditional, and that they can talk to you about anything and you’ll be there no matter what. I think kids need to know that you don’t have a rule book as parents. We tell the kids we’re doing the best we can to make the best decisions that we think we should as adults. But we may not get it right all the time.

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

AUTUMN 2018 11

your life It’s

Author mum 's

Unicorn with a difference

ANGLESEA mum Ali Villani’s first children’s book carries a powerful message for young people who may be struggling with self-acceptance. The businesswoman drew from her own experiences when she co-authored Ali the Shiny Sparkly Unicorn, a tale that shows it’s okay to be different. The children’s book follows a unicorn named Ali who was teased at school for being different. She lost all her sparkle and shine, the music disappeared from inside her and the colours around her faded. But her shine and sparkle finally returns when she begins to understand it’s okay to be different and becomes brave enough to be her true self. Ali, who recently returned to the Geelong region after living in Mount Gambier for six years, said she knew she was a bit different from around the time she started primary school. “I loved to sing and dance, I could hear music inside of me and I saw everything in bright colours - then life happened,” she said. “I soon realised it was not all rainbows and unicorns. I was teased for being who I was and as a result, I lost

that fun-loving side of myself.” By the age of 30 Ali found herself in a job where she was stuck behind a desk all day analysing numbers in the corporate world. “I was coming home stressed, unsatisfied and exhausted - far from the person I was as a young child,” she said. But a life-changing incident in 2012 prompted Ali to begin a journey to rediscover her true self. Ali and her business partner and co-author, Nic Cunningham, funded the book through a crowd-funding campaign that raised more than $13,000 in 26 days. The pair sold more than 400 books prior to its official launch at Torquay in February and are chasing a publishing deal to ensure more children have access to the book and its messages. “What we are facing in our youth and adults today is scary - anxiety, depression and suicide are on the rise. If we can reach children when they are young and help them to understand that it is okay to be who they are - and be proud of it - then maybe, just maybe, we can make a difference,” Ali said.

Anglesea author Ali Villani at the launch of her children's book, Ali the Shiny Sparkly Unicorn.

CALLING ALL JUNIOR FOOTY STARS! Give your kids the greatest time these school holidays at our

JUNIOR MEMBER CLINIC! They’ll learn from the best, with a range of activities taken by our AFL and VFLW players!

HAWKINS’ HEROES BUNDLE - ONLY $120 Includes: : Access to the Junior Member Clinic (April 11) : General Admission access to 16 Home & Away Cats games played in Victoria^ : Member pack including: Backpack, socks, shoe laces, pencil case, stickers, door plaque, beanie and cape! Already a Member? Sign up for the clinic for $35

membership.geelongcats.com.au/juniors or call 1300 462 287 ^Terms and conditions apply, subject to capacity. View T&Cs at membership.geelongcats.com.au

12 AUTUMN 2018

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www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

TORQUAY KIDS COLLECT RUBBISH TO

save animals Torquay children kicked off a host of community clean-ups that will take place around Victoria's community parks and beaches over the coming months. Zoos Victoria and YMCA Victoria have teamed up to encourage more than 800 people to participate in the rubbish blitzes across 17 sites. The program was launched in late February, with YMCA Victoria Acting CEO Michelle Bruggeman and Zoos Victoria CEO Jenny Gray lending a hand to collect rubbish with Torquay families. Ms Bruggeman said the clean-up was a great success. "It was wonderful to see the Torquay kids' passion for protecting their local wildlife," she said. "You didn't need to convince them to help pick up the rubbish - they were leading the way." Throughout the program, a YMCA

and Zoos Victoria facilitator equip participants with specialised clean-up kits that allow groups to review collected rubbish and discuss the effect it will have on nearby wildlife. The data is recorded and uploaded to a national database and used for monitoring and guide future research. The clean-ups are designed to support Zoos Victoria's When Balloons Fly campaign which aims to protect wildlife at threat of ingesting rubbish, such as deflated balloons in waterways and oceans. The initiatives encourage people to consider wildlife-friendly alternatives to balloons, such as bubbles, to help save seabirds and other wildlife. "Torquay children already have a wonderful connection with their local environment, and to strengthen this our program educates children about the harm rubbish in waterways, beaches and parks has on the wildlife," Ms Bruggeman said.

April

SCHOOL HOLIDAY

PROGRAM EASTER HUNT

DATE: SUNDAY 1 APRIL | TIME: ALL DAY COST: Included with entry into the National Wool Museum. Find the hidden eggs around the National Wool Museum and win a sweet surprise…

STORYFEST: EASTER FAMILY WORKSHOPS

Zoos Victoria CEO Jenny Gray and Acting CEO YMCA Victoria Michelle Bruggeman lend a hand in the Torquay clean-up.

STORYFEST: INTERACTIVE STORIES FOR FAMILIES DATES: THURSDAY 5 APRIL & THURSDAY 12 APRIL TIME: 2PM – 3PM

YOUTH CRAFTS (10–16 YEARS)

COST: Children $10 (Adults free of charge). Suitable for children 2–6 years.

DATE: FRIDAY 6 APRIL | TIME: 10:30AM – 12PM

Two fabulous stories – “Where is the Green Sheep?” (5 April 2018) and “The Little Prince” (12 April 2018) will be brought to life – combining stories, songs, games, crafts and lots of fun and leading children on a journey of discovery and imagination. Bookings essential. Note: Requires a minimum of 5 participants for program to proceed.

DROP IN DINO FUN! DATES: MON 9, TUES 10 & WED 11 APRIL TIME: DROP IN BETWEEN 10:30AM – 12:30PM COST: Free for kids under 16 years when accompanied by a paying adult. Adult $9 / Concession $7. Create your own dinosaur using stencils and upcycled materials.

DATES: Tuesday 3 & Wednesday 4 April

FAMILY SUNDAY

TIME: Drop in between 10:30am – 12:30pm

DATE: SUNDAY 8 APRIL

COST: Free for kids under 16 years when accompanied by a paying adult. Adult $9 / Concession $7.

TIME: DROP IN BETWEEN 1:30PM – 3:30PM

Participate in simple sewing and felting for everyone, read and share Easter stories, create your own characters and imagine stories about them. Suitable for children 3+.

Craft with the family in this relaxed session where you’ll get to make dinosaur prints and participate in yarn based activities and crafts inspired by wildlife and dinosaurs!

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

COST: $9 adult / $7 concession, kids free with a paying adult.

COST: $15 ($10 NWM Members) Learn felting (both wet and needle) as you create your own felted phone case or tablet cover. Bookings essential. Note: Requires a minimum of 5 participants for program to proceed. DATE: FRIDAY 13 APRIL | TIME: 10:30AM – 12PM COST: $30 ($25 NWM Members)

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KIDS are cleaning up litter for the love of wildlife.

Discover The Little L Project and realise your own bookmark with LED and conductive thread. Bookings essential. Note: Requires a minimum of 5 participants for program to proceed.

KIDS BIRTHDAY PARTIES For the craftiest and most fun birthday ever, celebrate your child’s birthday with us! For ages 4 to 12 years old, we make birthday parties fun for kids and easy for parents. Enjoy exclusive access to the Studio for 2 hours, which includes 60 min of facilitated activities with a Museum educator! Bookings essential. For more information: email nwminfo@geelongcity.vic.gov.au or call 03 5272 4701.

national wool museum

nwm.vic.gov.au 03 5272 4701

AUTUMN 2018 13

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14 AUTUMN 2018

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Book

dreams

Brooke Blaney hopes to publish her book The One That Was Different. (Rebecca Hosking) 178227

for bully battler

By Luke Voogt AFTER battling schoolyard bullies by writing a book, Wandana Heights' Brooke Blaney is on a quest to win a publishing contract.

up to the bullies. "Some other people told the teacher when they saw it happened," she says. Brooke used fingerprints to tell the story of April who, like her, overcame her tormentors.

"My dream is to find someone who will publish it," the 12-year-old says.

"My story has an important message about stereotyping," she says.

"I believe this book should be available in all primary schools."

"April finds out everyone is different in their own way."

Brooke's book The One That Was Different tells the story of April, who the other characters bully because of her orange hair.

Brooke presented the book at a school exhibition night and the positive reaction gave her confidence to pursue her dream of being a published author.

But April develops a special friendship, which helps the story's other characters realise they are different too.

"Many people, both adults and children, have identified similarities to themselves in the story," she says.

Eventually the characters "show off" their differences, rather than hide them.

"I like coming up with all the characters and how they each have their own story. I can express my ideas and I can give people messages in my books."

Brooke's own struggles against bullies inspired April and the other characters, she reveals. "They'd call me an orangutan and they'd pretend to catch me like an endangered species," the grade 6 student says. But she and some classmates stood

Brooke's mum Carolyn Blaney is proud of her using words to overcome bullies and stereotypes.

A page from Brooke's book.

"(The bullying) was horrible," she says. "This is her way of taking action."

geelonggallery.org.au

The world according to childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books

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24 March â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 27 May 2018 Geelong Gallery

PRESENTED BY

In collaboration

Presenting partners

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www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

AUTUMN 2018 15

EPWORTH OPENS

women's clinic

WOMEN’S health can often be complicated and confusing, so to support women taking control of their health Epworth Geelong has opened a dedicated women’s health clinic.

■ pelvic pain and menstrual problems;

The Women’s Health Clinic is a comprehensive health assessment and advice service exclusively for females from adolescence to mature age.

■ endocrine disorders (including thyroid, weight management and osteoporosis).

The clinic provides women of greater Geelong with an opportunity to see female general practitioners who are experts in supporting women’s physical and emotional health and wellbeing.

WOMEN'S HEALTH CLINIC'S GPS

Located at Epworth Geelong, in Waurn Ponds, the clinic is also conveniently supported by onsite imaging, pathology and a pharmacy. The Women’s Health Clinic offers consultations on complex women’s health issues such as: ■ women’s health checks (including cervical screening); ■ pre-pregnancy planning and early pregnancy management; ■ infertility; ■ MHT (medical or menopause hormone therapy); ■ incontinence; ■ contraception (including mirena insertion);

■ assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): ■ endometriosis; and

DR Elizabeth Skeen and Dr Kerryn Rae have joined Epworth Geelong to bring this new service to women in the region. Both Elizabeth and Kerryn are Geelong residents and have spent many years offering support and expertise on women’s health issues.

A dedicated women's health clinic has opened at Epworth Geelong.

Epworth Geelong Women’s Health Clinic doctors provide a caring and professional approach to primary health care delivery. They have a special interest in women’s health and this new service provides them with the time to really listen and support each patient’s health journey. For more information visit epworthgeelong.org.au/our-services/ womens-health-clinic/ or phone 5271 7855 during office hours.

Dr Elizabeth Skeen has joined Epworth Geelong to bring a dedicated health clinic for women.

Dr Kerryn Rae has spent many years offering expertise on women's health issues.

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16 AUTUMN 2018

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Win an awesome cubby A gala dinner in Geelong will raise funds to go towards finding a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

Gala dinner to help search for cystic fibrosis cure

Caravan Cubbies are for kids who love cool, hip and amazing cubby houses. Manufactured in Victoria, the cubbies are retro inspired and built to last. Steve and Melody from Playgrounds Geelong - Just Awesome have teamed up with Geelong Coast Kids to giveaway a super cool cubby house.

The cubby will be a super addition to the family backyard, providing kids with endless hours of outdoor fun. To go into the draw to win this awesome prize, check out the Geelong Coast Kids Facebook page.

The Big Build: Under Construction

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GEELONG Coast Kids and our friends Steve and Melody from Playgrounds Geelong - Just Awesome have teamed up to giveaway a Classic Australian Caravan Cubby valued at approximately $2500.

A gala dinner is set to raise much-needed funds to help find a cure for cystic fibrosis. The event, which will have some 500 guests, has raised more than $100,000 in the past two years thanks to the support from the Geelong community and local businesses. This year's Cure Cystic Fibrosis Gala Dinner will be held at The Pier, Geelong on Saturday 19 May. The dinner is organised by a committee consisting of mostly parents of children with cystic fibrosis. All proceeds go directly to the Cure4CF Foundation. The committee is desperate to find a cure for the life-shortening chronic illness and has its hopes pinned on The Adelaide Cystic Fibrosis Gene Therapy Research Group, which it says has a potential cure only a few years away from human clinical trials. Cystic fibrosis is a devastating condition, with sufferers developing an abnormal amount of very thick and sticky mucus in the lungs, airways and digestive system. The mucus leads to recurrent infections which cause irreversible damage.The gala dinner will feature fine food, fabulous entertainment, VIP guests and both live and silent auctions. For tickets visit http://www.trybooking. com/346066 or email cfgeelong@gmail.com

Bring your budding builders or architecture enthusiasts down to our kids construction site at Centre Court Market Square these School Holidays! Tiny Tradies will sign in for their shift at our site ofﬁce, don a hi-vis vest and get to work! From skyscapers to shops, mazes to mini-Market Squares, kids can build big with our life-size cardboard bricks - ‘GiGi Bloks’ Is your apprentice builder in need of a little design inspo? As part of StoryFest, our site manager has constructed a ‘Little Library’ full of fun books on all things building, blocks and construction to help mini imaginations to create BIG things!

Market Square... Construction fun with us Tues 3 April - Sun 8 April, 10am – 2pm daily

‘Project managers’ AKA guardians are encouraged to join in with construction or to get handy with their own build!

Market Square is supporting local charity, T1 Troopers, during April. www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

AUTUMN 2018 17

Education

THE GEELONG COLLEGE

a fine choice for education The college is highly respected for its student academic achievements, its broad and innovative learning opportunities and its experienced, committed and dynamic teachers. It is a Uniting Church coeducational school and has about 1380 students from early learning to Year 12, with boarders from Year 7. The college believes boys and girls learn and lead best together, and boasts an open and inclusive learning community that serves the needs of young people and their families through a diverse range of pathways and experiences. Each student is encouraged to achieve their best and explore their passions to help them prepare for an ever-changing future. The Geelong College Vision for Learning identifies and integrates a series of capabilities into all learning experiences, projects and co-curricular opportunities. Identity, Creating, Communicating, Enterprise, Creativity, Thinking and Contributing are the capabilities young people need to develop to learn how to learn and to become independent and informed

global citizens. These capabilities underpin everything the college does. The college has diverse, challenging and nurturing programs at all year levels to inspire students to be positive contributors to the world. There is something to inspire everyone, from the Reggio Emilia inspired Junior School to the Middle School, which includes environment and media programs, to the senior school which has some 40 VCE subjects and a rich co-curricular program including APS sport, drama, music, expeditions, debating and public speaking.

The Geelong College believes boys and girls learn and lead best together.

Principal Dr Peter Miller says families should enrol early to give their child the best chance of securing a place. "With Geelong and the surrounding areas growing rapidly, we are experiencing unprecedented demand for places and have waiting lists at many year levels," he said. "I recommend you register at least three years before you wish your child to start to avoid disappointment." To discover more, visit a college open day on 7 March, 2 May, 15 August and 24 October. For more information, visit www.geelongcollege.vic.edu.au or phone (03) 5226 3156.

The Geelong College

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THE Geelong College is one of Victoria's finest schools and has been educating thinkers, doers and leaders since 1861.

a leading Victorian day and boarding school. Since 1861 we have been educating thinkers, doers and leaders, with our eyes on the future, and grounded by long-established values. We develop potential, embrace uniqueness, and work together to learn the skills and attitudes needed to live a good life. This is who we are.

OPEN DAYS Wednesday 2 May, 15 August and 24 October. www.geelongcollege.vic.edu.au or phone (03) 5226 3156

18 AUTUMN 2018

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Education

The Geelong anzuk team places exceptional teachers in vibrant education settings throughout the Geelong and Bellarine regions.

Anzuk SUPPORTS OUR SCHOOLS FOR over a decade anzuk Education has been supporting schools by supplying quality educators in Melbourne. In 2015 the organisation established an office at Newtown in order to better provide support to the Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula regions.

Always helping educators make the right choice, anzuk provides personalised support throughout career journeys, whether educators are a new graduate, returning to work or a community leader. Throughout the application process,

educators will be supported by one of anzuk’s five Geelong consultants. These consultants will be the main point of contact for client’s interview, registration and beyond. Once anzuk is informed about educator’s teaching goals (whether it’s casual relief teaching for the flexibility and experience, or a contract role to be immersed in a school community), they

will tailor the opportunities clients are presented with. Being educators themselves, anzuk also enjoy the opportunity to visit their partner schools to ensure they are providing them with the best support they can. Anzuk Education is located at 18-20 Riversdale Road in Newtown. For more information, phone 5201 7956 or visit anzuk.education/au.

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Since then the Geelong team has grown to support more than 40 local schools.

The organisation works to place exceptional teachers in vibrant education settings around the world.

Valuing your child’s safety and learning Did you know nearly 1 in 5 teachers are employed casually? Or that approximately 10% of your child’s learning is delivered by Casual Relief Teachers (CRTs)? anzuk Education is a teacher recruitment agency run by experienced educators, and like you, we value your child’s learning and safety. That’s why we stay at the forefront of child safety legislation and individually screen, reference check, VIT registration-check, interview and get ongoing feedback on every single one of our casual educators.

Know someone who’s a teacher? Put them in touch with us today. Call 03 5201 7956 or visit www.anzuk.education 18-20 Riversdale Road, Newtown, Geelong

Providing quality educators since 2004; every way, every day, always

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www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

AUTUMN 2018 19

Taking enrolments

NOW!

Learning... it’s Child’s Play! CORIO www.facebook.com/childsplayearlylearning TORQUAY www.facebook.com/childsplaytorquay/

Come and join our growing family Childs ‘ Play is a family run, growing, Geelong based business, focused on the individual development and progress of a child. We want to help and assist families in feeling safe and conﬁdent leaving your child in our care. Our educators are trained and qualiﬁed to care and support childsplay to join ‘our family’, we continue to strive to the highest possible standards and care.

Call to make a tour appointment and we can discuss your family becoming part of ours!

CORIO 3-5 Purnell Road Corio VIC 3214 | 03 5275 4445 | corio@childsplayelc.com.au TORQUAY 1 Pintail Drive Torquay VIC 3228 | 0499 995 241 | torquay@childsplayelc.com.au

www.childsplayelc.com.au 12381534-HM11-18

20 AUTUMN 2018

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Education

TUTORING EQUALS RESULTS FOR

Torquay teen GLASS half empty is not a term that sits well with Torquay teenager Andie Taylor.

hopes to go on and one day study physiotherapy at university.

Whether she's playing netball or at the beach or hanging out with friends, Andie is known for her broad smile and can-do attitude.

Andie is among a growing throng of students seeking support for maths or English outside of school. She attended tutoring at NumberWorks'nWords Geelong, an educational centre that places an emphasis on making learning fun.

So when the former school captain of Bellbrae Primary School finished her grade 5 NAPLAN maths test she was uncharacteristically flat and knew something wasn't right. "I was always okay at maths but I felt when it came to NAPLAN that there were a lot of things we hadn't heard of before. We had these questions thrown at us. I didn't get it and I didn't like that," the now 13-yearold recently reflected. "So we went and got the help of a tutor and that helped me learn what we needed to know going into high school. I actually find maths enjoyable now; it's no longer stressful." Now in year 8, Andie has been placed in the accelerated maths class. It is her favourite subject and she

"I'd heard of other places where there are just lots of homework sheets and people hated it, but I found it fun at NumberWorks'nWords because it felt like some things were taught almost like a game which made it much more enjoyable," she said. Following Andie's success, her younger sister Chloe and several grade 6 friends now carpool to the Belmont tutoring centre each week. Mum Mel Taylor said investing in tutoring for her girls was one of the best decisions the family had made. "For me maths is such an individual thing; people grasp it in different ways. At the school they can only do

so much and they have to keep moving forward onto new topics. If you don't get the fundamentals it is very hard to catch up," she said. "That's what happened to me at school and I didn't want that for my kids. It's money well spent because once they get those fundamentals they're set." From May 15-17, all students in years 3, 5, 7 and 9 will sit the NAPLAN literacy and numeracy tests. The tests aim to gain a snapshot of a child's academic performance and are measured against national minimum standards. The tests are held amid a backdrop of growing concern over Australia's lagging results on the global stage. A recent Australian Tutoring Association report showed that up to 25 per cent of Australian children are below the lowest educational benchmarks of what is acceptable, and that up to 45 per cent of adults are functionally illiterate.

Andi die d e Tayllor lloves maths des pite once struggling with the subject.

The statistics alone don't mean much to teenagers like Andie, but she knows her parents' decision to seek the support of a tutor was a turning point in her education. "There's no doubt the tutoring helped me. I want to continue doing the highest level of maths I can through high school and I definitely didn't feel that way back in grade 5," she said.

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN Register your

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child for three or four year old kindergarten

Visit www.bcyf.org.au, www.geelongaustralia.com.au or www.bethanykindergartens.org.au for more information.

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

AUTUMN 2018 21

Education

Eclipse Early Education's staff have the skills, training and support to deliver exceptional child care outcomes.

Eclipse raising standards ECLIPSE Early Education is passionate about delivering the highest quality of care to our community and children.

■ aesthetically pleasing play areas enhanced by features from the natural world;

Eclipse prides itself on ensuring its centres are equipped with the best educational resources that provide children with exceptional learning opportunities.

■ family and community involvement, participation and valued input; ■ environmental education; ■ inclusion and acceptance; ■ nutritious meals prepared by a qualified chef;

Eclipse Early Education welcomes diversity and celebrates culture of all kinds. Its state-of-the-art facilities help deliver the best curriculum available from the early-childhood industry. Eclipse Early Education is committed to creating an environment that promotes:

■ employing only qualified, passionate and dedicated educators devoted to Eclipse’s children, its centre and industry; and ■ catering for all children and their individual needs.

■ play and interest-based learning guided by intentional teaching;

Eclipse Early Education helps develop each child’s unique social, emotional, physical and cognitive skills by providing the children with an emergent curriculum. By developing the program in an ongoing manner as questions and interests arise, learning is enhanced.

■ flexible indoor/outdoor programs;

As a professional educator, Eclipse

■ educational and care programs that support the learning journey of the whole child, academically, socially and emotionally; ■ an integrated kindergarten program;

documents stories of learning while also using a range of other documentation tools to gain a holistic view of each child, which is documented in individual portfolios. Eclipse Early Education’s nutritional Get Up And Grow meals provide a nutritiously balanced menu allowing children to try new foods and a wide range of cultural meals, such as halal and kosher, while also giving them opportunities to self-select food of their choice.

Eclipse believes that providing calm, progressive mealtimes allow children to converse and enjoy the company of others while eating.

NEW Childcare Centres Now Open in Armstrong Creek & Torquay

Eclipse has developed its own values based on core beliefs that are reflected in its daily practices while also sourcing and attending regular professional development training to keep up to date with industry changes and best practice. “In conclusion, we aim to provide a personal, happy, family atmosphere where parents, community members and organisations will feel welcome and encouraged to participate whenever possible to bridge the gap between home, the centre and the community,” Eclipse says.

The menus are developed using Get Up and Grow guidelines to ensure all children are provided with 50 per cent of the recommended daily intake of nutrients.

As an industry leader child care, Eclipse Early Education works to

National Quality Standards in conjunction with the Early Years Learning Framework.

“We promote sustainability by considering environmental issues such as conservation of water and recycling. Educators and children consider alternative uses for materials rather than discarding them.”

When little things matter

Call now to book a tour at one of our purpose built centres

www.eeeg.com.au

ARMSTRONG CREEK

TORQUAY

Warralily Estate 337 Charlemont Rd Ph: 5264 1311 E: warralily@eeeg.com.au

78-80 Beach Rd Ph: 5264 6833 E: torquay@eeeg.com.au

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22 AUTUMN 2018

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Education Education

Screen time - how much is too much?

matters ROB KELLY

multimedia teacher

THE

SCREENS THAT DIVIDE

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IT’S A debate that divides opinion. How much is too much? From looking at our mobile devices and computer monitors in the workplace to watching television or using an iPad at home, it’s now almost impossible to avoid screen time. It is the way we live our 21st century lives - as we are surrounded by artificial screens and digital displays of all shapes and sizes - all of which are emitting potentially dangerous levels of light energy. The question on many people’s minds now is, are we doing enough to enforce limitations on our children’s screen time? As school is about to resume for thousands of children around the country, now is a good time to set boundaries and to shine a [natural] light on the situation at home and in the classroom. Restricting a child’s screen time at home and school can be challenging for parents and educators alike. I have seen children have meltdowns and screaming fits because they are told they cannot use an iPad or computer in the classroom. Forget 1927’s pop song “I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream“ - as “I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for iScreens“ is more appropriately in sync with today’s youth. However, setting boundaries and rules pertaining to screen time for children at home will help them develop other important life skills - as will completing chores, outdoor activities and advanced

social interactions. At school, educators are encouraged to promote student engagement in differentiated ways balancing a student’s learning across a technological and non-technological tightrope of subjects. Balance is key. So, what is an acceptable amount of screen time for children? Experienced primary school teacher and parent blogger, Fiona Froelich suggests that children between the age of five and ten should not be exposed to screens for more than an hour a day while children between the age of ten and twelve should not be exposed to any form of digital technology for more than two hours a day. For parents with infants, it is recommended by the World Health Organsiation that they avoid using technology altogether, as this is an important time for their social and emotional development. The World Health Organisation is also considering endorsing new guidelines, developed by Australian and Canadian researchers, as its official endorsements to parents. As we become increasingly dependent on technology, more time is spent looking at screens. Thanks to contemporary research, we know that long-term exposure to artificial light can not only negatively impact sight, but also disrupt the human body clock and overall wellbeing of an individual. This can therefore lead to health problems for young people later in life. Like a good diet, balance is the key to a healthy life. Over consumption could have potentially damaging effects to one’s health. There’s no escaping it. There will always be artificial light at the end of the tunnel, but let’s encourage our children to enjoy the natural kind rather than the non-natural sort.

Our new centre offers:

Bush kinder experiences for all ages Indoor and outdoor play

Giving children space to learn in nature

Book a tour of our unique centre

childrensprograms.ymca.org.au/torquay www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

(03) 8371 0500 AUTUMN 2018 23

parties party pop

' ki d s Plan to make the

Make your party pop with a showstopping cake.

By Lia Spencer PLANNING a party doesn't have to be stressful. There are so many things that can be done without forking out the cash and spending copious amounts of time on preparation. Here are some helpful hints to make the day special and go off without a hitch.

DECIDING ON A THEME

This can be as easy as you want it to be - from a simple colour pink for girls, blue for boys, yellow for either, or a little more complex featuring favourite characters like Winnie the Pooh, Disney princesses, or Ninja Turtles. Go wild with animals, impress with a circus theme or have a blast turning a famous event into a kids-friendly affair - think Kim Kardashian's daughter North's birthday, 'Kidchella' - a childversion of the popular American music festival Coachella (however, you may have to forgo the ferris wheel and celebrity guests). Make your theme come to life with colourful streamers, balloons, homemade pom-poms and lanterns, or

posters. Top it off by dressing up, and asking guests to dress up, to match the theme.

PICK YOUR FOOD, DRINKS AND VENUE

Making an invite list doesn't have to be difficult. The best way to be cash savvy is to make the list small and intimate inviting only close family members or close friends. If you want to invite more than close family and friends, make sure you know when to stop. If your child is infant or toddler age - keep the guest list low to not overwhelm them. Invite the people they know and see regularly so they aren't scared with many new faces. If they are older, invite only close friends who they regularly associate with and their parents. Make sure to only invite as many people that you can cater for. Pick a venue which is big enough to host everyone - preferably your own house so you don't have to transfer food, drinks, and presents around. If you plan a park - make sure it has a gazebo area or have a back-up plan. If you hire a venue, try to hire one

which provides toys for children so you don't have to lug many around, and a kitchen area to do food preparation and cleaning. Pick simple foods, preferably nut-free to avoid any run-ins with allergies. Think fairy bread, mini-pizzas, sausage rolls, meat pies, and nutritious options like fruit, vegie trays and juice boxes. Make the cake on your own matching your theme. Or if you have spare change, hire someone to do it for you. There are several cake makers who specialise in kids' birthday cakes and can make anything and everything, in an array of different and delicious flavours. Cupcakes, cake pops and cookies are also perfect options instead of a cake. Just don't forget the candles!

PLAN SOME ACTIVITIES

Try a pinata (just make sure it's

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If you have the cash to splash hiring a face painter, balloonist, magician, clown or character artist adds a little bit of excitement to any party.

PACK THE PARTY FAVOURS

There is a wide range of options if you plan to hand guests party favours. You can fill gift bags with sweet goodies such as lollies and chocolate (but again, keep in mind any food allergies).

Don't forget to get in on the action. You have worked hard to plan a great event, you deserve to have a little fun too. Dress up, eat, drink, have a turn on the pinata. Then after you clean up and say goodbye, put your feet up and relax you deserve it.

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Pin the tail on the donkey (or similar), a treasure hunt around a closed in yard or pass the parcel (try to let everyone get a small prize so no tears are shed).

If your party guests are mainly babies and toddlers, you may want to avoid handing out any food. Instead, buy inexpensive mini-books, party poppers, bubbles or puzzles. Enjoy!

Kids don't need a lot of planned activities to keep them entertained. They have great imaginations and can come up with games with limited props. However, having a few activities keeps things organised.

supervised so kids don't get hurt).

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Entertainment

Experience the magic OF STORYFEST THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

GET ready for a Storyfest these school holidays.

GEELONG’S BEST KID BUSKER COMPETITION

Tales will be told over 13 fun-filled days in Geelong as the city celebrates the magic of storytelling in all its wonderful forms.

Come along and be entertained by some of the city’s most musically gifted children as they showcase their talents and compete to be named Geelong’s Best Kid Busker.

Children can enjoy fun educational activities, performances, workshops and exhibitions hosted by Central Geelong businesses. Storytellers, educators and entertainers will lead the festival, held from Tuesday 3 April to Sunday 15 April.

■ Where: Little Malop St (between Moorabool and Yarra streets), Geelong ■ Heats: Tuesday 3, Saturday 7 and Tuesday 10 April, 10am-2pm ■ Final: Saturday 14 April, 10am-2pm

STORYFEST HIGHLIGHTS:

■ Cost: Free

THE STORY GARDEN

LET’S DRAW HORSES

Meet us in The Story Garden, a magical place where fairies, elves and other fairy folk live. Children can hear stories from a different storyteller or entertainer each day. For the full line-up, visit www.centralgeelong.com.au/events/ storygarden

Join Bronte Stead, author and illustrator of The Broken Horse, in a delightful illustration workshop for children aged six to 10 who want to learn how to draw horses.

■ Enquiries: facebook.com/ geelongsbestkidbusker

■ Where: 113-115 Little Malop St (next to Toyworld), Geelong ■ When: Tuesday 3 to Friday 6 April, and Monday 9 April & Tuesday 10 April, 10am to 2pm. ■ Cost: Free

INTERACTIVE STORIES FOR FAMILIES An interactive storytelling activity for families where two books, Where is the Green Sheep and The Little Prince are brought to life with songs, games and crafts. ■ Where: National Wool Museum, 26 Moorabool St, Geelong ■ Session 1: Where is the Green Sheep on Thursday 5 April, 10.30am-12.30pm ■ Session 2: The Little Prince on Thursday 12 April, 10.30am12.30pm ■ Cost: visit nwm. org.au for details ■ Bookings not required

■ Where: The Carousel, 1 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong ■ When: Wednesday 4 April, 9.15am10am 5272 4769 ■ Cost: Free ■ Bookings at centralgeelong.com.au/ events/112480

EXPERIENCE NARANA

CULTURE - ART - FOOD

Café – Gallery – Exhibition Centre – Native Garden Walk – Adventure Playground – Wildlife

NARANA ABORIGINAL CULTURAL CENTRE FREE ENTRY! www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

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Easter

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS At Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre

EASTER BUNNY

WONDERLAND

WED 28 TO SAT 31 MAR

MON 02 TO FRI 06 APR

Centre closed Good Friday 30 March

11am to 2pm daily outside Target

Wander the magical maze and explore the Queen of Heartsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Royal Garden.

Have your photo with the Easter Bunny

EASTER SATURDAY FUN! Sat 31 Mar:

Decorate your own teacup biscuit and meet Alice, The Mad Hatter, The White Rabbit and The Queen of Hearts.

- Face painting + balloon modelling - Easter egg decorating - Easter Bunny photos - Ferguson Plarre sampling

FREE E Activit aster with ev y Book er purchay photo sed*

* Terms & Conditions apply. While stocks last.

WaurnPondsSC

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Explore

APRIL IN WONDERLAND At Waurn Ponds Shopping ng gC Centre entre

WIN

WONDERLAND

1 OF 10 WONDERLAND GIFT PACKS

MON 09 TO FRI 13 APR

Take a photo with any of the April in Wonderland characters and upload your photo via one of the following social media networks:

11am to 2pm daily outside Target Wander the magical maze and explore the Queen of Hearts’ Royal Garden. Decorate your own bunny mask and meet Alice, The Mad Hatter, The White Rabbit and The Queen of Hearts.

Visit WaurnPondsSC, click on ‘WPSC WONDERLAND’ and complete the form Post a photo with the hashtag #WPSCWONDERLAND Please ensure your Instagram page is set to public.

Tweet your image with the hashtag #WPSCWONDERLAND

COMPETITION STARTS MON 02 APRIL 2018 Visit www.waurnpondssc.com.au for full terms & conditions.

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AUTUMN 2018 27

Entertainment

Wonderland at Waurn Ponds

MAGICAL mirrors, stacked teapots and life-sized chess pieces will have children and adults getting lost in a world of happiness and imagination these school holidays. April in Wonderland, inspired by the Lewis Carroll classic Alice in Wonderland, will transform Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre into a mystical and enchanting space. Within the high hedges of the Queen of Heartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Royal Garden, visitors will find an abundance of activities to enjoy as well as photo opportunities with Alice, The Mad Hatter, The White Rabbit and The Queen of Hearts. Each week of the holidays brings a new and interactive activity where visitors can decorate and enjoy their very own teacup biscuits, and white rabbit bunny ears. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also the chance for visitors to win wonderland prize packs by simply taking a photo with one of the April in Wonderland characters and uploading the image on social media. To kickstart April in Wonderland, Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre will be holding Easter Bunny photos on Wednesday 28 March, Thursday 29 March and Saturday 31 March. The exclusive photo experience will take place in the magical gardens outside Target from 11am to 2pm. April in Wonderland is free to visit and will be located outside Target, open Monday to Friday from 2 April to 13 April between 11am and 2pm daily.

April in Wonderland, inspired by the classic Alice in Wonderland, will create a magical and enchanting space at Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre over the school holidays.

HOUSE OF FUN MASSIVE INDOOR PLAYROOM

12 noon - 8.30pm

Special Kids Meals Mon, Tues & Wed Dinner only

Breakfast

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Entertainment

Illustrators imagine world at gallery

GEELONG Gallery is showcasing works from some of the most acclaimed children’s book illustrators in a stunning exhibition. Reimagine the World According to Children’s Books is a selective survey of Australian children’s literature and book illustration, featuring Indigenous and non-Indigenous illustrators of the past 20 years. Through the works of Australian illustrators and authors, Reimagine activates the dynamic connection between reading and seeing, and promotes literacy, perception, creativity and diverse ways of seeing the world.

The exhibition explores how children’s books can introduce young readers to complex ideas about contemporary humanity. Geelong Gallery director Jason Smith said one of the revelations of working on the exhibition had been the sheer range of material diversity and stylistic approaches used by the illustrators. “As curators we have been endlessly surprised by the experimental methodologies of many illustrators whose practices range from the venerable traditions of drawing and watercolour, to collage, sculpture, painted ceramics, and digital imaging,“ Mr Smith said.

“Each pictorial approach seems to magically correspond with the tenor and themes of its story, though the reality for illustrators is less magic and more labour-intensive crafting of their images.” Works featured in Reimagine range in scale from the intimate to the immense. Geelong Gallery will premiere a major new work by local illustrator, Robert Ingpen. Across almost seven metres of painted wooden panels, Ingpen brings together a universe of some of the most recognisable characters from the history of children’s stories and nursery rhymes, including Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan and

Captain Hook, Humpty Dumpty and Pinocchio. Other exhibition highlights include Shaun Tan’s exquisite paintings for The Rules of Summer, and Dee Huxley’s Look See, Look at Me, which follows the story of family life in an Aboriginal community. Huxley and author Leonie Norrington ran workshops with the women of the Barunga, Wugularr and Manyalalluk communities of Arnhem Land to create the vibrant illustrations and rhyming texts. The exhibition opens at Geelong Gallery on Saturday 24 March and runs to Sunday 27 May.

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AUTUMN 2018 29

AUSTRALIANS canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get enough slime. How to make slime was one of our top searched phrases on google last year. It appears we love slime so much, that four versions of the same question hit our top 10 searched questions - how to make slime, how to make fluffy slime, how to make slime without borax and how to make slime without glue. Last year most of us were more interested in making slime than buying bitcoin. This recipe is a traditional slime that uses both borax and glue, which can be found in your local supermarket although Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never bought borax before so had to hunt the laundry aisle. It makes a nice thick slime perfect for poking, squishing, squelching and rolling; the same consistency as I remember buying from the toy shop many years ago. After we had finished playing with it, the slime went in to a Tupperware container in the pantry, where it is still going strong. Mess factor: 3/5 Once itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been formed in to one mass of slime itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fairly mess-free, but if your child likes to pick bits off and flick them, as mine did, you could be finding strange little slime balls for a few days afterwards. - Jade Glen

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reality bites

Four children in just two pregnancies - Morgan doesn't do anything by halves. Morgan and Timothy with Bentley and Mackenzie (back) and Riley and Cody. Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Double delight with twice the twins

By Jade Glen MORGAN Rackham and Timothy Morgan have rolled the dice twice and got two sets of fraternal twins - a statistical quirk that has roughly the same odds as winning third division with a single entry of Tattslotto. Their eldest twins, Bentley and Mackenzie, were born at Monash Hospital seven years ago, delivered naturally at 36 weeks gestation. Last year the couple enjoyed a week in Las Vegas and on their return discovered that Morgan was pregnant again. “It was a case of what happens in Vegas, doesn’t always stay in Vegas,” Morgan said. The couple did not think they would be having twins again, but an early dating scan proved otherwise. “The sonographer had a look and said there’s one - and there’s two. I was a lot more scared this time. To have one healthy twin pregnancy is one thing; but to pull it off again is another,” she said. Both of Morgan’s pregnancies were similar, with minor complications towards the end. But the births of both sets of twins were very different. Morgan was induced at 36 weeks with her first pregnancy as Bentley had stopped growing in utero. Bentley was delivered first, weighing 4lb 1oz, and Morgan saw him briefly before he was whisked away to the Special Care Nursery. It was another 42 minutes before Mackenzie arrived, weighing 4lb 9oz, after some manipulation by the obstetrician. Morgan was discharged from hospital after 48 hours, while the twins www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

were kept in special care at ng Monash and then Dandenong Hospital for 9 days. “I was setting my alarm every three hours to express and travelling to see them every day,” Morgan said. When Bentley and Mackenzie came home, Morgan found getting out and about relatively simple. d “They loved the pram and slept everywhere I went - I was out every day doing stuff.” Because of their small size at birth, the twins had a few extra checks with the Child Health Nurse, but Riley and Cod y. showed no ill effects. Mackenzie would hit all her milestones like first tooth and toilet training to first, with Bentley always picking cking it up help get our head spot on one month later. around having babies again,” Morgan They shared a cot for a time and still said. enjoy ‘sleeping over’ in each other’s Timothy’s mum came to look after rooms. the eldest twins the first night, and The second-time around, Morgan Morgan’s mum came down from and Timothy chose Dr Jorg Kemper as Bendigo to stay and take the kids to their obstetrician, and delivered at St and from school. John of God Hospital in Berwick - an After five days, Morgan and Timothy experience they described as fantastic. and the twins left hospital. Life was Plans for a natural delivery were back to normal, although they both scrapped when at 37 weeks, Riley was sorely missed the hospital’s famous still breach and Cody was not engaged, afternoon Happy Hour, when a trolley and the growth of both babies had laden with cakes, pastries and soft slowed significantly. cheeses made the rounds of the ward. “We went in on the Monday and he Timothy went back to work at his said get organised, the caesarean is personal training business, 4 U Body happening tomorrow.” Fitness, shortly after returning home. Riley was born weighing 5lb 5oz and Cody 4lb 13oz. “They were pretty much in our room the whole time, which was really nice

“Everything kind of went back to normal - we were doing the usual after school activities, swimming and dancing. It was an organised chaos,” Morgan said.

The eldest twins adjusted to their new brothers after a brief period of rebellion and are very attentive. “They have been absolutely amazing. They have coped really well with the attention shift and instantly get up to help. Mackenzie especially is such a little mother,” Timothy said. Morgan, a beauty therapist, has started to see a few clients again at her home business, Beauty Couture by Morgan. The family knows plenty of others with one set of twins but no others nearby with two sets. While there’s one spare seat in the family car, they don’t plan to try for one more; they’ve decided the odds of having another pair are a tad too high. AUTUMN 2018 31

Cats membership a premier pick for families MAKE memories your family will never forget at GMHBA Stadium in 2018. Geelong Cats game days at the stadium are action packed and begin even before the players take the field. There is an array of activities in Legends Plaza, while Cats members also have the chance to be selected for the 'guard of honour' and bring the team out onto the ground. It is truly a unique match day experience at regional Australia's best sporting venue. The experience goes beyond match days with the club's junior member clinic on Wednesday 11 April giving young fans the chance to meet their blue and white heroes. Every child also

goes home with a gift bag. Adult, junior and family membership packages include non-access, general admission or reserve seats. There are also convenient monthly payment plans. And each season Hawkins Heroes Members can win the opportunity to spend one-on-one time with Cats superstar Tom Hawkins. Relive your memories of spending a day or a night out at the footy and recreate these memories with your children by signing up for a 2018 Geelong Cats membership.

There's plenty of fun to be had on match day.

For more information, visit membership.geelongcats.com.au

Young members get the chance to meet their blue and white heroes.

Being a Cats member is a fun experience for kids.

Junior members get plenty of kicks from their membership.

Geelong coach Chris Scott poses for a photo with a young fan. 32 AUTUMN 2018

The fun for young members extends well beyond game day.

Signing on as a Cats member has its perks. www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Games and gadgets

books..

toys..

By The Book Bird's Sue Lawson

By Sue Dillon of Mega Toys, North Geelong & Torquay

VTECH TOOT-TOOT DRIVERS Playtime with miles of learning! The Toot-Toot Drivers Big Fire Engine and its mini friend are perfectly sized for little hands. The big engine features lots of manipulative features. Press the small fire engine's light-up screen to activate music and sounds. It teaches the name of the vehicle through pretend play and music. 1-5 years The Hate You Give - Angie Thomas This timely young adult novel, set in America, has taken the world by storm, and it’s no wonder. It’s a compelling, uncomfortable and heart-felt read. Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter lives between two worlds – her poor neighbourhood and her expensive school. When her best friend from childhood, Khalil, is shot by a police officer in front of her, Starr has to decide if she will speak up so the truth is told, or stay quiet to protect herself and her family. There is so much to love about this book. The characters are rich and well developed and the emotion beautifully captured. A fantastic read for older readers.

The Feather - Margaret Wild and Freya Blackwood.

ZINGO!, BINGO WITH A ZING Award winning game by ThinkFun. ZINGO! brings fast-paced excitement and learning to the classic game of Bingo! Slide the Zinger to reveal picture tiles, make a match and fill your card to win. Images with printed words and two levels of play make this the perfect game to grow with. Age 4+

The Feather, the latest work by muchloved Australian creators, Margaret Wild and Freya Blackwood is a superb book. Maria and Nic seek advice from the villages’ adults after a giant, white feather lands in front of them. When the adults’ attempts to protect and preserve the feather blacken it, the children take it back to their home. The exquisite illustrations and sparse text work together to create a powerful allegory which explores hope and kindness. This story stays with you long after you’ve read it. Suitable for older children and lovers of beautiful books.

MAGTASTIX Get ready for some mega fun with this magnetic building set complete with rods and balls! Your little builder can use their imagination to construct, design and create hundreds of designs. They can build magic motion using magnetic power or just create a simple shape. It's educational and fun. Age 6+

MY ACTION TABLE The most varied preschool game kit by Lisciani EDU System is designed to offer integrated learning activities that employ advanced multimedia technologies to develop your child's intelligence. Modern ergonomically designed table with legs, children can interact with the talking pen that guides them through a learning process and will award them will a cheering applause. 3-6 years

DISCOVER SCIENCE Say Zoop - Hervé Tullet If you’ve read best sellers Press Here and Let’s Play to your children, you’ll know what to expect with Say Zoop. But if you haven’t read those books, you’re missing out! Like the other books by Tullet, Say Zoop is bright, fun, interactive and encourages imaginations to run free. Say Zoop is all about noise – whispering, shouting, singing and making shapes and sounds with your voice. Follow the dots and squiggles to see what sounds you can make. It’s so much fun. And very noisy. A fabulous, interative book to read with your children over and over again.

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Here We Are: Notes for Living On Planet Earth Oliver Jeffers Oliver Jeffers has done it again. This simply gorgeous picture book is an introduction to our world – the oceans, land, creatures and people.

Discover the scientific wonders of the world with this fun-filled introduction to Science. The Discover Wonders of Learning Science educational box set introduces your child to the basic

It’s a kind of instruction book on how to live life with kindness, simplicity, respect and importantly, to embrace our differences.

principles of biology, chemistry and

The quote attributed to Jeffer’s dad, at the back of the book are a perfect summary of this book: “There are only three words you need to live by, son: respect, consideration and tolerance”.

ranging from the periodic table to the

physics by providing a captivating insight into a variety of scientific ideas, study of genetics. Age 5+

Here We Are is a perfect gift for a special baby in your life, and one they will treasure for many years to come. AUTUMN 2018 33

23 MARCH

27 MARCH

28 MARCH - 6 APRIL

Twilight Market

Geelong's Big Play Day

Easter Maze

Loads of stalls from local businesses and creators including adults and children's clothing, home decor, art, jewellery and accessories, skin care, candles, wall art, children's products, lifestyle products, gourmet food and more. 7pm-9pm Free entry Childs Play Early Learning Centre Corio - 3-5 Purnell Rd childsplayelc.com.au

Free, fun-filled day out for families with preschool age children. The Mik Maks, Crazy Koala and Dazzling Dan the Magic Man will all be there!

Hop on in to

10am-1pm The Presidents Room Level 2 of the Charles Brownlow Stand- GMHBA Stadium 370 Moorabool St Geelong geelongaustralia.com.au/events

Craft Village that will

Wednesdays 6.30pm to 7.45pm Atha Yoga Studio, 29 Sydney Ave East Geelong

24 MARCH

28 - 31 MARCH

Pumpkin Fair

(Excluding Good

Bookings - bellyamasyoga.com.au

Held at the 7-acre farm 'The Paddock' in Leopold. Family-friendly, all-abilities event raising important funds to support sustainable food production and universal opportunities. 10am-2pm www.encompass-cs.org.au

Easter Bunny at Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre Have your photo with the Easter Bunny!

10am-2pm FREE

FROM MARCH 7 Prenatal Yoga

FROM MARCH 9 Mums & Bubs Yoga Fridays 10am to 11am Atha Yoga Studio, 29 Sydney Ave East Geelong Bookings - bellyamasyoga.com.au

22 MARCH Play School Live In Concert BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL South Barwon Civic Centre Tickets $19.80 each. Admission is free for babies under 12months at the time of the concert. $6.60 transaction fee applies per booking. Bookings: kidspromotions.com.au or phone 9739 6300

24 MARCH - 27 MAY Reimagine-the world according to children's books An exhibition of Australian children's literature and book illustration, showcasing some of the most acclaimed and loved Indigenous and non-Indigenous illustrators of the past twenty years. Free entry Geelong Gallery Little Malop St, Geelong geelonggallery.org.au

Westfield's A-MAZEING Easter Maze and be popping up in Centre Court this Easter. Complete the maze and redeem your free Easter gift! Friday)

*Centre closed Good Friday

Centre Court,

11am to 2pm daily Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre outside Target waurnpondssc.com.au

28 - 31 MARCH Easter Bunny Meet & Greet

Westfield Geelong Westfield.com.au/ geelong

31 MARCH

Kids can meet everyone's favourite furry friend, the Easter Bunny, as he makes his annual visit to Westfield Geelong.

Easter Saturday Fun at

The Easter Bunny will have yummy chocolate treats and can't wait to get a photo with you.

Face painting + balloon modelling.

(Excluding Good Friday)

photos. Ferguson Plarre sampling

10am - 2pm FREE Centre Court, Westfield Geelong

Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre -

Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre Easter egg decorating. Easter Bunny

outside Target waurnpondssc.com.au

12373809-EPJ49-17

34 AUTUMN 2018

www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

3 - 8 APRIL

7 - 8 APRIL

Easter Bunny Trains

Day Out With Thomas

Scenic 45 minute return train ride at various times. Create an Easter Bonnet at home to enter the parade for the chance to win prizes, Easter Egg hunt for children, Photo opâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with the Easter Bunny!

Jump on-board for a 45 minute return train ride at various departure times. Thomas will be at Queenscliff Station all day for unlimited rides in those Troublesome Trucks! Meet Sir Topham Hatt and his Station Master, visit Henry and climb up to his Drivers Cab to blow his whistle, Jumping Castle, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Maze and more. bellarinerailway.com.au or Ph 5258 2069

bellarinerailway.com.au or Ph 5258 2069

Market Square Construction

1 APRIL Easter Hunt

Construction Fun

Find the hidden eggs around National Wool Museum and win a sweet surprise.

Bring your budding builders or architecture enthusiasts down to the kids construction site for lots of fun activities! 11am to 2pm daily Market Square Shopping Centre Cnr Malop St & Moorabool St, Geelong marketsquaregeelong.com.au

2 - 6 APRIL, 9-13 APRIL

3 - 15 APRIL

Wonderland

Central Geelong Storyfest

Decorate your own teacup biscuit and meet Alice, The Mad Hatter, The White Rabbit and The Queen of Hearts. 11am to 2pm daily Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre outside Target waurnpondssc.com.au

3 - 4 APRIL Storyfest: Easter Family Workshops Drop in between 10.30-12.30 pm Suitable for children 3+

5 & 12 APRIL Storyfest: Interactive Stories for Families 2 - 3 pm Two fabulous stories - â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where is the Green Sheep?â&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Little Princeâ&#x20AC;? will be brought to life - combining stories, songs, games, crafts and lots of fun! Suitable for children 2 - 6 years Bookings Essential COST: $10 (Adults free of charge) National Wool Museum, Geelong Visit nwm.vic.gov.au or call 5272 4701.

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COST: Free for children under 16 when accompanied by a paying adult. Adult $9 / Concession $7 National Wool Museum, Geelong Visit nwm.vic.gov.au or call 5272 4701

A celebration of storytelling in any form. Kids can get involved in fun activities, performances, workshops, competitions and exhibitions, led by artists, storytellers, educators and entertainers. For children aged 3 to 16 years and their adults centralgeelong.com.au/storyfest

Family Sunday at the National Wool Museum 1.30pm - 3.30pm Craft with the family in this relaxed session where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll explore a range of techniques to create wildlife-inspired items. Cost: $9 Adult / $7 concession, kids free with a paying adult. National Wool Museum, Geelong Visit nwm.vic.gov.au or call 5272 4701

9, 10, 11 APRIL Drop in Dino Fun! Drop in between 10.30 - 12.30 am Create your own dinosaur using stencils and upcycled materials. COST: Free for children under 16 when accompanied by a paying adult. Adult $9 / Concession $7 National Wool Museum, Geelong Visit nwm.vic.gov.au or call 5272 4701

This show is packed to the rafters with mischief, music, magic and giant laughs. Suitable for ages 6 to 106 (grandparents beware!) Tickets $22 (Group 4+ $20) 12pm & 2.30pm GPAC 50 Lt Malop St, Geelong www.gpac.org.au

27 MAY

Cystic Fibrosis Gala Dinner

Raising funds for Type 1 diabetes research and community. 2 course lunch.

Fine food, entertainment, live & silent auctions. All proceeds go directly to Cure4CF Foundation

Geelong Race Course 12.30 - 5pm $100 per person Tickets - T1.Troopers@gmail.com or phone 0400307712

CALL ME TODAY FOR A FREE15 MIN. EVALUATION Amy Huebner Ph: 0455 890 730 amy@hushabyebaby.com.au

www.hushabyebaby.com.au private consultations. group seminars. practical solutions. www.geelongcoastkids.com.au

Cleverly adapted from the much-loved book by Roald Dahl, George's Marvellous Medicine bounds off the page in a spectacular live show for the whole family.

T1 Troopers Race Day

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;VE GOT ANSWERS!

George's Marvellous Medicine

19 MAY

QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR BABYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SLEEP? 12349894-DJ24-17

Wander the magical maze and explore the Queen of Heartsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Royal Garden.

26 MAY

8 APRIL

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COST: Included with entry into the Wool Museum National Wool Museum, Geelong visit nwm.vic.gov.au or call 5272 4701

The Pier Geelong Early Bird tickets (until April 20) $140 per person Tickets - trybooking.com/346066, or email cfgeelong@gmail.com

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31 MARCH & 1 APRIL

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BOOK YOUR NEXT BIRTHDAY PARTY HERE!

6 Lambert Ave, Newtown rollerway.com.au

0411 33 55 44 36 AUTUMN 2018