Sunshine Coast Kids Today Summer 2018

FREE SUMMER 2018/19

OUR MOST

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Rejoice!

SUMMER IS HERE HELLO everyone!

Can you believe it's that time of year again?

The silly season is well and truly upon us and the kids will be starting yet another school year before we know it!

I don't know about you, but this is definitely my favourite time of year.

Summer is such a great time to catch up with friends, fire up the barbecue, hit the beach and laze around the pool.

On top of all of that there's all the fun of the festive season, including a visit from Santa.

mission to raise funds for an operation to improve his life on page 3.

Reporter Hollie Harris also caught up the Sunshine Coat's most stylish mum Lucia Cimino, who has Melbourne, Italy and designers in her blood. Lucia shares her love of fashion and her top tips for busy mums who want to look good and feel great.

Our Christmas present to you is an issue jam-packed with great reads.

You'll also enjoy reading about Amy Cadd, a mother of three and palliative care nurse. Amy speaks about how she finds joy and meaning in a life where her work is spent in the shadow of death and how she maintains an optimistic view of the world to instil in her children.

Don't miss our inspiring story on local teen Tom Moore who has endured more than 150 surgeries since he was burnt in a house fire at age 3. Read all about the

In this edition, we also explore the often contentious issue of children's sleep. We were lucky enough to catch up with The Sleep Coach, Cheryl

Published six times per year December, February, April, June, August, October

Fingleson to give us the lowdown on thorny issues such as when your baby should sleep through the night, how many hours of sleep your child should be getting and how to establish good bedtime routines.

Sunshine Coast Kids Today c/o Noosa Today

Don't forget to visit our website at www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au and our Facebook page. We also have an Instagram account - just search for Sunshine Coast Kids Today.

Facebook.com/ SunshineCostKidsToday

Finally, everyone at the Sunshine Coast Kids Today team wishes our readers and advertisers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. See you in 2019!

36 Mary Street, Noosaville, Qld, 4566 Online: sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

Editorial Hollie Harris editorial@sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au Phone: 07 5455 6946 Advertising Tracey Combes tracey.combes@ sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au Phone: 07 5449 9837 COVER: Little Seed Theatre Company returns to fine form with the Fantastic Mr Fox in January.

contents

FREE SUMMER 2018/19

IT'S YOUR LIFE

EDUCATION

ENTERTAINMENT

Scarred but not scared

Taking the stress out of early learning

PAGE 3

PAGE 12

Where ideas, inspiration and the individual are believed in

The Sleep Coach answers common questions

Swim school caters for mums and bubs PAGE 13

REALITY BITES

PAGE 4-5

Easing into prep

The light through the shadows

PAGE 14

PAGE 19

CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Most stylish mum

Preparing older siblings for a new baby PAGE 6 Is your backyard safe?

PAGE 7

PAGES 20-21

BOOKS

PAGE 15

Trying for a baby a rollercoaster ride

Teaching kids about the universe

PAGE 22

PAGE 15

Children's Christmas books

Catholic schools a firm favourite for families

PAGE 22

Sequel to Up the Duff released PAGE 10

PAGE 16

PAGE 22

FASHION

Students flourish in a small school

PAGE 8 Jiu jitsu prodigy PAGE 9

Summer style PAGE 11

2 SSUMMER UM U UMM MM MMER ER 20 201 2 2018/19 01 0 18 8/ 8/1 /1 / 19

MUM

PAGE 18

Inspired by example

How to be a calmer mum

OUR MOST

stylish

THE

Sleep Coach

SHARES HER TOP TIPS BROUGHT TO YOU BY

A Star N News Group Publication bl

PAGE 17

t h e a t re

Children's books

KIDS KALENDAR What's on this summer PAGE 23

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your life It’s

Scarred but not scared

By Hollie Harris

highly successful programs making a significant positive impact on the lives of many children and their families.

WHEN Matthew Thiele and Caloundra's Tom Moore found the KIDS Foundation they were finally able to smile again.

■ Injury Prevention programs educate and empower children to keep themselves safe while still allowing them be kids. Educating preschool children through the SeeMore Safety Program is the focus. Other programs include IF (Injury Free) Day.

View Restaurant chef Matt Golinski recently sat down with burn survivors and KIDS Foundation ambassadors Matthew and Sunny Coast local Tom for a chat about survival, operations, the Noosa Triathlon and child safety.

■ Injury Recovery programs support young people to cope with the physical and emotional after-effects of living with burns and other serious life-changing injuries. The foundation hosts injury recovery camps, leadership workshops and the National Burn Survivors' Network.

Matt's story of survival and triumph has been public knowledge for some time and it was quite a thrill for local teenager Tom Moore, who was burnt in a house fire at the age of 3, enduring over 150 surgeries, to meet him in person.

After life-long pain in his right leg, the recommended treatment is an expensive amputation and prosthetic.

Tom's story inspired the KIDS Foundations to embark on a mission to raise funds for an operation to improve his life and they ended up raising over $45,000. And so, after a long and painful journey, Tom is booked in to undergo a life-changing surgery - an osseo-integration. The procedure involves amputation below the knee, placing a titanium rod inside his tibia so that a prosthetic leg will click onto the rod.

Matt Golinski with childhood burn survivors Matthew Thiele and Tom Moore and KIDS Founder and Director Dr Susie O’Neil hanging out at Noosa's View Restaurant.

"After being in pain for so many years, I am so excited to try this," Tom said. "It's time."

One of his greatest achievements is that since being introduced to karate at camp, he has just recently gained his black belt.

The operation will give Tom a huge improvement in his quality of life and he expects to be up and walking in days.

"They have said I will be fully recovered after only three weeks," he said.

"I will be able to do a lot of things I can't do now."

Nineteen year old Matthew Thiele was trapped in a car fire when he was three. He sustained full thickness burns to just over 30 per cent of his body. The most severe burns were to his face, head and hands. Mathew was in hospital for three-and-a-half months and his prognosis was not good.

grows, he still must endure many operations for skin releases, as well as operations on his legs where the bones were affected by the infections.

Matthew is supported by the KIDS Foundation. He attends camps and other programs KIDS offers young survivors and is the KIDS Foundations youth ambassador.

This inspirational young man has come full circle, that's for sure.

"I didn't like to go outside at all and, if I did, I would only go to school or church. Those were the places I was most comfortable with," Matthew said.

"People used to stare at me and run away. I knew I wasn't normal. These days, I don't mind if they look, I would too."

But once he discovered the KIDS Foundation, Matthew realised he had nothing to be afraid of.

"I started to go out of my comfort zone and began to really live my life. I found myself meeting new people and making good friends.

"KIDS has done a lot for me. They've helped me build up my confidence to speak and therefore help raise funds in the process.

Y tth i ffrom hi Young M Matthew recovering his horrific injuries.

"The KIDS Foundation has helped me to feel loved and supported. Now I'm going in triathlons!"

This month, he proudly crossed the finish line of the Noosa Triathlon after taking on the monumental 10km running leg of the race.

Injury is still the leading cause of death in Australia. Each week in Australia, on average 35,000 children will attend a hospital emergency department, 1300 will be admitted, and five children will die from injury.

The KIDS Foundation have fared well with federal funding and are able to target 10,000 kinders across Australia with their safety program. They also host camps and support programs across the country for kids who have sustained any type of injury, not just burns.

Their mission is to keep children safe and create a better life for those living with serious injury and burns.

The KIDS Foundation has been operating since 1993 and has an amazing story to tell, with a number of

■ KIDS Foundation is an active member of the Childhood Injury Prevention Alliance (CHiPA), which is a high profile team of clinicians, researchers, industry partners and funders.

CHIPA's mission is to reduce the incidence and impact of childhood injury across Australia.

The KIDS Foundation has a strong presence on the Sunshine Coast that continues to grow each year. This year, the foundation turned 25 and celebrated in September in Noosa, with Dine in White, an exclusive food event that raised funds for local projects. Dine in White was supported by 15 restaurants, each of which donated a unique dining experience for guests.

More than 150 people enjoyed the event and raised $40,000 to help KIDS deliver safety education programs in Noosa.

Discussions are underway with chef Matt Golinski about the 2019 Dine in White fundraising dinner event at View Restaurant, which will also coincide with the 2019 Noosa camp, so stay tuned for details on www. kidsfoundation.org.au Sunshine Coast Kids Today wishes Tom Moore a speedy recovery and much-improved quality of life after his big surgery.

12397889-HM38-18

Matthew had already fought so hard that his family held out hope that he would improve and after two weeks, he was able to survive independently. He has needed many skin grafts and has lost parts of all his fingers. Today, as he

■ Research clearly demonstrates that when children are given the right learning opportunities and experiences, they build a foundation of knowledge that equips them with capabilities they need to become competent risk-takers and manage their safety in everyday life and activities.

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

SUMMER 2018/19 3

The Sleep Coach

By Melissa Grant

questions parents have about children and sleep.

EVERYONE needs a good night's sleep.

When can I sleep train my baby?

When you're a parent this can be easier said than done, but there are things you can do to ensure everyone in your family is getting enough shut-eye.

Up until 4.5 months the brain is not developed enough to sleep train.

Sleep consultant Cheryl Fingleson has helped hundreds of parents establish gentle and safe sleep habits for their child.

As 'The Sleep Coach', Cheryl works with families to improve settling and sleep techniques, establish good sleeping routines and transition a child from cot to bed.

Often, she says, parents simply don't know how to get their child to sleep and stay asleep.

"The unfortunate thing is there is so little information out there," she said.

"Mums are taught how to fall pregnant, they are taught how to push out the baby, they say they are taught a little bit about settling, they are taught how to feed.

"A lot of people say 'my babies sleep', but often they don't. They think it's a reflection that they are doing something wrong. They need the knowledge that's all."

A certified sleep coach, Cheryl is passionate about babies and sleep and loves seeing the results of her work.

"You go into homes when marriages are falling apart because people can't think straight because of a lack of sleep," the grandmother said.

"You see them a week or two later and you won't believe the change. It's the most beautiful, rewarding thing I could do."

Here, Cheryl answers common

Prior to that we like to put the baby down so they can sleep on their own.

In the early stages, parents make the mistake of keeping their baby awake too long.

In first few weeks all babies do is sleep and eat. When they get overtired their brain gets wired and they can't fall asleep. It's important to mimic the environment of the womb by keeping them warm and swaddled. From 4.5 months you can start to try and settle.

Babies are like us - they like to know what's coming next.

How do you help babies sleep?

The four key things I tell parents is routine, sleep window, consistency, and drowsy but awake.

Routine is the constant routine of bedtime. If a child is on solids it could be solids, bath, milk, story and then bed.

The baby starts to know what is coming next. Obviously an early bedtime is better or they start getting overtired.

The sleep window is the time the baby starts showing sleep signs. This could be yawning, pulling ears or, if they are a bit older, clumsiness. If they get overtired it's hard for them to fall asleep because cortisone is released and that acts as adrenaline - that's what we call a second wind.

Consistency is simply whatever you do, do it consistently.

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ANSWERS COMMON QUESTIONS Drowsy but awake means they are in this state when they go to bed. We don't want to feed to sleep or rock to sleep.

When we put them in the cot or bed, we want them to be awake. This is because when they wake up from their sleep cycle they will want you to do whatever you did to get them back to sleep.

Sleep regressions - are they real? What should I expect?

I don't like to call them sleep regressions. I like to call them sleep progressions or growth spurts. You invariably find that a baby goes through a growth spurt or milestone, which often affects sleep because they have to practice moves in their cots.

With crawling, for example, they get up and practice crawling in their cot. It's important to keep to a routine during this time, which will pass.

When will my child sleep through the night? How can I help make this happen?

It's a very difficult question. At 12 months, some mums are happy if their child feeds and goes back to sleep quickly.

Some babies can sleep through from six months or even sooner, some take longer, there is no fixed rule.

There are many issues that may affect sleep, such as snoring, colds, teething, reflux, sleep associations and many more. We always rule out medical issues before sleep training your baby.

It is definitely not advisable for newborn babies to sleep through the night as their stomach is the size of a pea so they need to eat more often two to three hourly.

While babies can sleep through from six months, if the child is underweight the doctor may want the baby to have the extra feed.

How do I transition my child from cot to bed?

I don't like to move a baby from a cot to a bed until they're 2.5 years or 3 years old.

Before this, their brain is not formed enough to keep an instruction for 12 hours. However, if the child is getting out the cot you can transition them for safety.

When you transition, you have to give strict instructions not to get out. The older they are, the easier it is for them to understand. Parents have to be firm in their instructions. Discipline is required to keep them in their bed.

Also, a lot of parents move their child to a bed because they need the cot for their next child. This is not a good reason to transition a child to a bed.

When do children stop napping?

It varies. I believe children need a daily nap or a rest up until when they start kindergarten. Even when they are in kindergarten they still need some naps . But it depends on each individual child.

How much sleep does my child need?

There is no hard and fast rule. Sleep varies from child to child.

The amounts that follow are for a 24-hour period and include naps and the night sleep.

For newborns it's about 17 hours, dropping down to 15 hours. By four months sleep can drop down to 15 hours, including three to four naps.

Those aged six months need around 14 to 15 hours with two to three naps.

At nine months the amount of sleep can drop between 13 to 14 hours with two naps.

This reduces to about 13 or 13.5 hours for children aged 12 to 18 months. Two naps continue until around 15 to 18 months.

pick their kids up until 6pm, so it's difficult to get the kids to bed at 6.30pm or 7pm. A lot of parents don't get their kids to bed until 8.30pm or 9pm. It's too hard for the children and they get used to it. Make sure you plan and get them to sleep earlier. This means preprepared dinners or giving them your leftovers from the night before.

From 18 months to 4 years of age, they will go from having 13 hours to 11.5 hours a day. Around the age of 3, toddlers often stop their nap during the day.

What is the best way to deal with my child's bedtime at daylight savings?

Kids aged 5 to 9 years need about 10 or 11 hours a day. From the ages of 10 to 15 years, kids need about 9 to 9.5 hours and most definitely don't get that.

For sensitive children and those who are highly strung, a week or 10 days before daylight saving start moving their bedtime by 10 minutes for a couple of days, then 10 minutes for another couple of days.

How do I know if my child is getting enough sleep?

If they aren't sleeping enough, they start to have tantrums. You will also see a change in their moods. It's important to remember that very active children hide their tired signs very well. They are the ones that need the most sleep. The very active children you've got to watch because they need more sleep than the others. Get them to bed at 6.30pm.

What is the best time to send a child to bed?

The best time for kids aged 5 years and under is 6.30pm, or half an hour either side, because of their biological clock. The majority of kids are ready for bed between 7pm and 8pm. Even a 10 year-old should be getting into bed and reading and relaxing at this time.

How can I make my child go to bed earlier?

Just routine. The thing that is difficult is a lot of parents work and they don't

For some children, especially older children, it will make no difference.

You'll just go forward or back an hour.

This means when the clocks change you are on the right time. For those children who aren't so sensitive, you can move it 15 minutes and 15 minutes.

It's not difficult. It's good to move it slowly.

My child keeps having nightmares.

What should I do?

There are nightmares and night terrors.

Night terrors are horrible things to go through. It's best to leave them alone, but be there so they don't hurt themselves. Just don't touch them and don't wake them.

With a nightmare, you can wake the child and bring them out of it. It's important not to put the TV on an hour before bedtime. For kids who have nightmares, read them a nice book before bedtime and talk about nice things they've done in the day.

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SUMMER 2018/19 5

your life It’s

NESTING 2.0:

Preparing older siblings FOR A NEW BABY

LAUREN Gardiner, a mum of three and author of a new story book for soon to-be-big brothers and sisters called 'baby + me', believes that sharing the pregnancy and nesting experience with your children can help prepare them for the significant changes a new baby can bring.

Pregnant again?

Congratulations! Hospital bag packed - tick. Car seat installed - tick. Netflix shows selected for late night breastfeeding sessions - tick.

You've got this, right? But hang on ... what about your older child or children?

Introducing a new baby into a family is possibly the biggest thing to have ever happened to your older child.

because it played to their interest in poo and wee!"

Here are Lauren's top ideas for sharing the pregnancy and nesting with your children: 1. The talk!

Even if you're not showing it can be hard to hide a pregnancy. People will soon notice that you're opting for orange juice and avoiding the cheese platter.

Debbie Isaac, a Melbourne-based occupational therapist with many years' experience and three grown-up kids of her own, says that children can experience a range of feelings.

Jealousy, surprise, frustration and bewilderment are common emotions in the early days of a new arrival.

Tell your older children first - the news will affect them the most.

Some children feel "absolute shock", Ms Isaac says.

"Children have seen the big tummy but have difficult reconciling that with the end product (the newborn baby)."

Preparing children for a new baby can help them cope.

Ms Isaac suggests providing information and sticking with routines.

Equally important is letting the child know that they are loved and special.

But preparations need not be expensive or elaborate.

Nicole Avery, a mum of five, the author of the book "Planning with Kids" and also a popular blog of the same name, suggests involving kids in planning for the baby's arrival.

"In my own experience, some activities are more engaging than others, depending on the child's personality, interest level and age," she said.

"Sharing picture books and pretend play with a doll were helpful in my second pregnancy.

"In my third pregnancy, both boys (then four and five) loved making a shopping list of baby items. Nappies were a real curiosity ... probably 6 SUMMER 2018/19

As well as being a fun and intimate experience for adult and child, sharing a book can prompt further discussion.

3. Let your body be a guide!

Your body is simultaneously growing a baby and preparing for labour and readying the milk supply - WOW! Your body can also help prepare your older children for a new baby - so try to embrace it and let them embrace it too (literally).

For the talk, pick a place free of interruptions and distractions.

By letting your older child touch your belly and feel a kick, you're nurturing the beginnings of a very special relationship.

Make the message relatable (for example, refer to another child with a new baby they know).

4. All in for nesting! Your older children can help with preparations for the new arrival.

Alternatively, use an ultrasound picture.

In Nicole's book, "Planning with Kids", she suggests older siblings can help with setting up the baby's bassinet, making meals in advance, washing baby clothes and looking at baby photos.

And if all else fails - point to your tummy!

Parents should also sensitively manage other people's messages about the baby as they may upset your older children.

With three boys and one girl, in her fifth pregnancy Nicole's response to comments about a preferred gender was "we are just happy with a healthy baby".

All the hype about the new baby can also be overwhelming for your older children.

Some people might talk about the baby like there's absolutely no one else in your life (such as that toddler clinging to your leg).

Here, change the conversation to include the other children.

2. Books, books, books!

There are some fantastic picture books about new babies.

The author will have spent countless hours thinking from the child's perspective and crafted the story to help children with the adjustment (trust me - I know because it's what I've spent the last 16 months doing).

to play (rather than simply telling them).

5. Baby projects!

If your kids are into art, they could complete an art project for the new baby - such as a drawing for the nursery wall or a handmade card.

Grandparents can get in on the act here too.

My mum helped my boys create a beautiful welcome home banner for our third child, which now has a place amongst our most treasured keepsakes.

6. Sharing memories!

We love to look back on photos of our children when they were little, including ultrasound photos and tell stories about those times.

Share these with your children and discuss how the baby is just like they were and how they are different now.

And does it get easier?

"Yes," says Nicole.

These activities provide an opportunity to talk about the baby - its size, its routine, its capabilities and some of the demands and disruptions for the family (eg night waking).

"When you do have a few, once you put in the work for the first one or two it flows on to the others. The older ones lead the process with the younger ones."

Having your children help with these tasks also shows them they can have a role

So there's good news for those planning an entire basketball team like Nicole!

REVIEW: Preparing your child for a new baby REVIEW: baby + me, Lauren Gardiner Are you pregnant with older children in tow?

You spend the nights wondering how to prepare your child for the new baby or how to kick-start a sibling bond.

The brand new baby + me book, written by Mont Albert mum Lauren Gardiner, can help.

In baby + me, the child's special place in the family is reinforced and

the child learns positive and helpful behaviours that make them a S-U-PE-R big brother or big sister.

But it is a book with a difference - it allows your child to create their very own story, adding their own words and drawings in space provided.

Ms Gardiner, a mother of three, developed the book while pregnant with her third child.

This book is beautifully illustrated and thoughtfully written for soon-to-be brothers and sisters. www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

your life It’s

IS YOU YOURR

backyard safe?

By Melissa Grant

majority of childhood drownings occur in swimming pools.

KIDS on the Sunshine Coast are blessed with gorgeous sunny weather for most of the year, which means they can spend plenty of time playing outdoors.

It's recommended that children under five years of age be supervised all times when playing outdoors.

The backyard is a fantastic place for children to explore, learn and have fun, especially with siblings and friends.

But the outdoor space can be dangerous for little ones.

Statistics show the most common place for childhood injury is the home, with many mishaps occurring in the backyard or garden.

Parents should also be selective when it comes to play equipment regardless of a child's age. It's important to consider potential misuse of equipment such as trampolines and swings as well as gaps where limbs may become trapped.

So how do you ensure your backyard is safe?

Here are Kidsafe's tips to avoid child injuries in the backyard

It's not hard to see why this is the case given the multitude of hazards lurking out the back door.

■ Have a safe play area that's separate from hazards like cars, driveways or pools

There are the obvious dangers such as pools, pets, BBQs, sheds and play equipment.

■ Ensure you swimming pool or spa surrounded by a safety barrier that's been checked using the Royal Life Saving Society Australia checklist

But there are also risks posed by things less noticeable, such as poisonous plants and hanging tree branches.

Trampolines, monkey bars, swings and climbing equipment such as tree houses are the main outdoor play equipment commonly associated with injuries.

Other typical backyard injuries are caused by falling onto concrete, running into gates and falling from fences, fence posts and balconies.

Another scary statistic is that the

■ Ensure the area is free of drowning hazards. This includes ponds, pet water bowls, and - buckets ■ Make sure play equipment is stable and has no sharp edges, splinters or edges that can come loose ■ Cut off any sharp branches that hang at the child and adult eye level ■ Remove tripping hazards and rubbish ■ Check that plants in your garden aren't poisonous

■ Place play equipment away f th and d solid lid garden d d i from paths edgings ■ Supervise children on and around play equipment at all times ■ When choosing backyard play equipment for your children, choose equipment that complies with the Australian Standard AS 468 ■ Trampolines comply with the Australian Standard AS 4989 and have safety pads installed to cover the frame and springs ■ Put a soft surface under play equipment over 500mm high to cushion falls ■ Check BBQs are stable. If they are movable put them away when not in use ■ Garages and sheds should be kept locked. Put pesticides, paints, chemicals and other poisons stored in

The backyard is a great place for kids to play but can also be da ngerous. tightly covered, labelled, original containers out of reach of children ■ Store all flammable liquids safely (as per directions) and away from ignition sources ■ Cement in garden statues and bird baths to prevent a crushing hazard ■ Ensure electrical equipment, power points and light switches are protected from the weather ■ Separate pets from children, except when supervised ■ Cover garden ponds and water features with a grate, grill or mesh cover ■ Never leave lawn mowers or other equipment switched on and unsupervised when children are around ■ Ensure children wear hats, shoes and sunscreen when out in the yard

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SUMMER 2018/19 7

your life It’s

By Melissa Grant

How to be a calmer mum

AS a mum, it's often difficult not to feel frustrated or stressed out.

Busy schedules and a child's testing behaviour can make you feel like you're in a survival mode of sorts.

When the frustration and stress leads to yelling at your child, you're likely to feel even worse than you did to begin with.

It's a situation Heather Lindsay knows well.

As the founder of Blissed Out Mums, Heather has helped more than 2500 mums overcome the guilt to become calmer and more patient parents.

The registered nurse became a motherhood coach after battling postnatal depression in the weeks after the birth of her second child.

"I became a single mum when I was 28 weeks pregnant. It was a traumatic experience," she explained.

"When my daughter was born, I ended up seeing a GP, went on antidepressants and saw a psychologist.

"After six weeks it wasn't working anymore. As a single mum with two kids I was like 'I don't have time for this. I don't have time to go over the past'."

So Heather turned to life coaching.

"My life did a complete 180. I was happy again. My kids were thriving.

Life was the way I wanted it to be."

However, Heather had noticed there

were many other women who weren't happy with the mums they had become.

Feeling inspired to bring life coaching to other mums, Heather undertook training in life coaching and mental health.

She started Blissed Out Mums, a parenting service that helps mothers via online programs and workshops.

Women can also get one-on-one help.

"I've found the biggest things mums don't like is that they are always feeling frustrated, they're stressed out, yelling and taking it out on their children," Heather explained.

"They end up feeling so guilty they don't enjoy the time with their children, or going to work."

So how do you stop yelling at the kids?

These are Heather's top tips for being a calmer mum: Breathe: When a child is yelling or screaming our body enters a stress response and we don't think clearly. If we do some deep breathing it helps push the stress response into a relaxation response. If you take 18 seconds to do that before you respond to your child, chances are you won't yell.

Expectations: It's important to take a step back and look objectively at our kids' behaviour. All behaviour is communication - they're trying to tell us something, they just don't know how to.

You need to support them emotionally and fix the cause of the problem.

Self-care: A lot of the time if we're stressed about our laundry and relationships, we don't have patience for our children. Self-care is important - we can't parent from an empty cup. Sitting down even for a few minutes a day and doing something for yourself is important Be open: I'm a big advocate for open communication with children. It helps if you say 'Mum is really sorry but she is really cranky today, I didn't need to yell at you'. It helps build that secure attachment.

Look at the big picture: When your children move out or when they are reading your eulogy at your funeral, how do you want them to remember you? You don't want them to remember being taken places or being given toys - you want them to remember the connection they had with their mum. If you can look at the big parenting picture and beyond the day to day struggles it helps guide your own behaviour and be the mum you want to be.

Heather says it's also important to remember that nobody is a perfect parent.

Heather Lindsay, the founder of Blissed Out Mums.

As a single mum to three kids, aged 7, 4 and 22 months, she admits there's even times when she gets irritated.

"There are still some days I get frustrated and cranky, but it's about knowing what different things to turn to," she said.

"One of the biggest lessons I learnt when I became a single mum was that if I didn't look after myself my children suffered and there was nobody else to pick up the pieces.

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your life It’s

Seven-year-old Pedro Lopes is now ranked second in the state for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Jiu Jitsu Prodigy A CHAMPION IN LIFE AND ON THE MATS SEVEN-YEAR-OLD Pedro Lopes, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu student training out of Gracie Barra Noosa has a large medals, championships collection of me and titles that would an inspire the best. i Pedro has been training since 2017 and tr began competing very b early in his Jiu Jitsu career e in both gi and no gi.

This year he is the Sunshine Coast Champion, Su Moreton Bay Champion, Mo Queensland State Qu Champion, South Pacific Cha Champion, Brisbane Cha Champion, South East Cha Queensland Champion, and Que Caloundra Open Champion Calo in his hi division.

Pedro Lop es has a larg e collection of medals .

He is also ranked second in the state.

So what is it that Pedro loves so much about Jiu Jitsu?

"It has h given me the confidence to try new things. I confid

have made some great friends and I feel strong," Pedro said.

Pedro remains humble in all his success, and is always the first to help his opponents get up and embraces them.

He is talented, but he works hard to learn and develop his game.

Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu teaches students to be great athletes and martial artists.

More importantly students learn to be a good person on and off the mats.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a dynamic martial art, utilising techniques to get the opponent to the ground and pacify aggression from an attacker using chokes and holds that allow the practitioner to enforce their will.

Gracie Barra has a long and distinguished legacy in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and has more than 700 schools worldwide.

All instructors are globally certified to provide the best coaching and application of technique in a friendly and encouraging environment.

NEW, FREE VACCINE FOR teenagers

By Melissa Grant AUSSIE teens will be able to get a free meningococcal vaccine in the new year.

The meningococcal A, C W and Y vaccine is being added to the National Immunisation Program (NIP) in April 2019, with the jab free for students aged 14 to 16 years under a school-based program.

Teenagers aged 5 to 19 years, who haven't already received the shot in school, will be able to receive it through a GP catch-up program.

More one million teenagers are expected to get the free meningococcal A, C, W and Y vaccine as part of a $52 million program.

Although rare, meningococcal is a very serious disease that occurs when meningococcal bacteria from the throat or nose invades the body.

The announcement of the free vaccine for teenagers follows a spike in invasive and fatal meningococcal cases across the country.

There were 382 meningococcal cases reported in 2017. This compares to 252 in 2016 and 182 in 2015.

Deaths associated with

meningococcal have also risen, with 28 fatalities in 2017. There were 11 deaths in 2016 and 12 deaths in 2015.

Those lucky enough to survive meningococcal can suffer devastating effects. This includes loss of arms and legs, deformed arms and legs, scars, blurry vision, deafness, headaches and learning difficulties.

Federal health minister Greg Hunt has urged parents to take advantage of the free vaccine.

The announcement of the free vaccine comes after the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) advised to list the meningococcal A, C,

W and Y vaccine on the NIP for adolescents.

It also comes after a ACWY meningococcal vaccine was made free for 12-month-old children on July 1.

While teenagers and infants can now have a free ACWY meningococcal vaccination, they aren't protected against meningococcal B. Meningococcal Australia has been pushing to have strain B vaccines, currently priced between $120 and $155 per dose, made free.

For more details about the free meningococcal vaccine for teens, visit www.health.gov.au/

JIU JITSU FOR EVERYONE! Kids classes 4yrs-11yrs Juniors & Teens 12yrs-15yrs Adults 16yrs +

Self-defence & Sport Jiu Jitsu 0411 120 607 info@gbnoosa.com.au www.gbnoosa.com.au Gracie Barra Noosa gb_noosa

Book your free trial today 12404002-LB50-18

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

SUMMER 2018/19 9

your life It’s

The sequel to Up the Duff released AUTHOR Kaz Cooke is back with a new sequel to her bestselling guide to pregnancy, Up the Duff.

Try to think of yourself as a coach, not a punisher.

It's impossible for a child to have the mental capacity to put themselves in your shoes.

Sunshine Coast Kids Today readers are lucky to have access to an extract of her new book Babies & Toddlers.

But you can try to imagine you're a child attempting to work out the right way to behave - or what you can get away with.

There are around 1.4 million babies and toddlers in Australia with more than 310,000 babies expected to be born next year. Although we've been parenting forever, there has never been a more complex, contradictory and confusing time in which to do so.

As a former journalist, Kaz has done all the hard work to find what parents need to know. She's sorted through the conflicting advice, consulted hundreds of parents, grandparents and carers, spoken with more than 30 medical experts and other top specialists, kept on top of the latest government health recommendations and safety guidelines, and waded through all the internet blather to identify the waybonkers stuff to avoid.

Topics included in Babies & Toddlers: ■ Busting the myths bombarding new parents ■ How to decide on what you do and don't share of your parenting on social media ■ Getting through tough times ■ Helping toddlers identify their

The sequel to Up the Duff is out now.

It's your kid's job to test the boundaries so they know where they are, and your job to keep the boundaries clear.

■ Choosing a parenting style

Set some reasonable goals early on - these can start when your child is 1 or 2 and build through their preschool years.

■ Planning a birthday party for your toddler

Here are some approaches you might find useful:

■ Advice on how to be a real partner to a new mum

■ Think of your child as your ally or apprentice, not the enemy

EXTRACT What is discipline?

■ Show your child the right way to behave

emotions

When people talk about discipline they often just think it means punishment.

The point of discipline is not to punish a child but to teach them to behave with kindness and consideration, and to understand the rules.

'Discipline' sounds a little bit like what English politicians get up to in expensive London dungeons with bored ladies called Mistress Nannypants.

■ Help your child learn when a behaviour is wrong and why ■ Recognise that your child may not understand or care why they're supposed to behave in a certain way. Explain when you can, but 'That's the rule' is a shorthand response. Toddlers are learning to be logical, but they're not there yet.

■ Give your child choices of things that

Kaz Cooke. don't matter. 'Apple or pear?' but not 'Sit still or hit your sister' ■ Establish a small core of simple ground rules that are consistently observed, such as bedtime is 7 o'clock, no hitting, and you don't get what you ask for if you use a whingey voice - so the child isn't overwhelmed by trying to remember 56 rules ■ Be clear that the aim is for your child to understand what are the right things to do, not to humiliate them or make them feel inadequate or guilty when they do something wrong.

THINKING OF SELLING? Speak to your agent about listing on realestateview.com.au.

Be seen everywhere.

10 SUMMER 2018/19

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

style THE hottest summer fashion for kids is at Billy Lidz.

The boutique stocks leading Australian designer children's clothing brands and overseas favourites for kids aged 0 to 14.

Trendy arrivals for the summer season are perfect to update your child's wardrobe in time for Christmas photos and gatherings.

Items from new baby basics label Quincy Mae have just arrived, while new collections from Buck and Baa and Oh Nine the Label are due in store just before Christmas.

The boutique's gorgeous clothing, toys and accessories make fantastic Christmas gifts. Doll prams, doll cots and cute dump trucks are among the great gifts in stock.

Lay-bys are available.

Check out the range in their online store at www.lovemybillylidz.com.au

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

SUMMER 2018/19 11

Education

Taking the stress out of

early learning

There are some incredible benefits to childcare or kinder, but choosing the right one can be daunting.

fo for kindergarten. They may show signs o of boredom at home or start to develop sspecific interests in different areas.

O Observe if your child can sit and remain e engaged with an activity for reasonable p periods of time. If your child is showing ssigns of wanting to socialise with others, ssuch as your child readily approaches o or talks to other children or adults d during visits to the park, then that is a ssign they are ready for preschool. Early ssigns of resilience such as the ability to in independently get up from a fall and c continue playing also indicate readiness fo for kindergarten along with the ability to share with siblings, and take turns.

W What are some of the known benefits to e early learning?

There is overwhelming evidence of th the positive outcomes of two years of p preschool.

David Worland, CEO Early Learning Association Australia.

WHEN the time approaches, it can be stressful for parents returning to work and looking for childcare options for their young child. For some of us, childcare is a necessity.

While for others, there's no deadline.

Either way, making the right choice and handing over your child to an educator or choosing the right preschool isn't easy.

That's why Danielle Galvin spoke to David Worland, CEO of the Early Learning Association of Australia, to get some practical tips for parents to make the transition as smooth as possible and how to choose the right place to nurture your child's development and learning.

What are some of the signs parents should look out for which could indicate their child might be ready for more, i.e. being bored or acting up at home?

As a parent, there a number of signs that will tell you that your child is ready 12 SUMMER 2018/19

For children, two years of quality early learning can assist those who are behind in their learning to catch up to their peers and start school ready together. Also, children who have attended regular, quality early learning are more likely to go on to further education, to be employed, to earn more and have improved health outcomes.

There are also benefits for families, communities and the nation including: ■ More parents enter the workforce, increasing Australia's productivity.

■ Improvement to Australia's declining school performance in international benchmark testing.

■ The national costs of education, justice and health are reduced resulting in overall savings.

■ Increased net GDP for Australia of up to $30 billion cumulative to 2050 (Price Waterhouse Coopers, 2014).

Is there an age at which a child should be attending childcare or kindergarten? Is there research that

shows a specific age is beneficial or does it differ from child to child?

The science behind brain development shows that 90% of a child's brain is developed before the age of 5.

Research highlights that the two years before school are optimal for learning essential skills for life. In their 2016 report entitled Preschool - Two Years are Better Than One: Developing a universal preschool program for Australian 3 year-olds - evidence, policy and implementation, the Mitchell Institute's Stacey Fox and Myra Geddes noted that between the ages of three and five years, foundation skills critical for learning are established. Ages three to five years are considered the sweet spot for reducing disadvantage and enhancing readiness for school, setting a child up for life.

What are some basic tips for parents, to know how to choose the right childcare centre? It can be a difficult, overwhelming decision!

Start with some research about centres in your local area. Jump online and check out centre websites, look for statements about their learning philosophy or approach. Go to the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority website www. acecqa.gov.au and click on the link (from the home page) to the National Registers where you can search on a centre to find some key details about its service offerings and National Quality Standard Ratings. Then organise to visit the centre, talk to the staff and during your visit take note of how staff interact with the children.

Does it matter how many days a child attends?

Any time spent in quality early learning is beneficial but research generally points to 15 hours a week as being the minimum recommended period.

Are there any questions that a parent should definitely ask, when doing a tour of a pre-school, childcare, kindergarten?

Make sure you ask about fees and request services to explain to you how the Child Care Subsidy works. Ask the service about how they communicate with parents i.e. some might have a book where they note the day's activities and messages while others might use an online portal platform like Storypark. Ask about place availability, wait lists and commencement dates. If your child has any additional physical or intellectual needs then be sure to ask the service how they will cater for those needs. It's really important too to understand the services education and care philosophy. Ask them about their performance against the National Quality Standards.

What are some basic tips for easing your child into a childcare environment?

Try to regularly talk to your child about going to kindergarten or childcare and use a positive tone - talk about making new friends, the great play equipment and how exciting it will be. Ask your child how they are feeling about it and when the day arrives, be organised by having your child's bag ready with lunch packed (if required as some services provide meals), sunhat etc. It's also important to support your child with conversations about their learning and friendship experiences.

Any other tips for parents?

As well as preparing your child, prepare yourself for a time of change by focusing on the positives for your child and family. Kindergarten and childcare is a major first step toward independence for your child and also opens up opportunities for parents such as returning to work, study, or taking on other interests. www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

Education

Swim school caters

for mums and bubs SUMMER is here, which means we are spending more time outdoors at the beach, around the pool or at local creeks and waterways.

This change in seasons also draws our attention to the importance of water safety, particularly around our young children.

With this in mind, the Grammar Swim School has a free Baby Bubbles program offering children aged 3-6 months a gentle introduction to water experiences, combining fun with water play, safety tips and water education for parents.

Grammar Learn to Swim Coordinator Kellie Hutchings is responsible for the growth and development of the swim school and has more than 14 years' experience in the aquatics industry.

"A major focus of our Learn to Swim program centres on awareness to increase safety around water and help reduce the number of drowning incidents by alerting children to the risk associated with swimming.

"With summer here, this message could not be more important - there is plenty of evidence that shows consistent and regular aquatic activity helps improve water safety skills."

Now open to children aged from 3 months through to junior squad level with a strong focus on learning to swim safely, developing technique and skill sets, the Grammar Swim School provides the complete learn to swim experience.

"Here on the coast we are blessed to

be surrounded by beautiful beaches, lakes and rivers, and many of us have backyard pools that are a major part of our entertainment, making it essential for children to develop confidence and water safety skills from as early as possible," Kellie said.

"I love being able to make a difference from teaching children about water safety to helping them develop an essential skill set for life."

The Grammar Swim School welcomes families from around the Sunshine Coast.

The Grammar Aquatic Centre now also offers a seamless pathway for children looking to develop their skills in squad training right through to state and national swimming pathways.

Enrolment enquires can be emailed to aquatics@scgs.qld.edu.au

12406415-DJ50-18

Kellie is a passionate advocate for water safety and believes that as a community we need to ensure as many children as possible are participating in Learn to Swim programs.

"Baby Bubbles will help introduce children to water experiences in a fun and safe environment with the aim to reinforce vigilance and safety around the pool, near water ways and across our beaches," Kellie said.

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

SUMMER 2018/19 13

Education

E A S IN G IN T O

prep

Starting Prep is an incredibly exciting time for students.

AS Year 12 students at Matthew Flinderss Anglican College prepare to say goodbye, it's hard to believe that more than 30 of them started their journey at Flinders as little Preppies.

Tips before starting Prep: ■ Build excitement by taking your child on a special trip to buy school supplies

These founding students have spent 13 years learning, growing, playing and laughing on the Flinders campus.

■ Teach your child how to open lunch boxes, manage water bottles, zip and unzip bags, and organise belongings

As these students take their next stepss beyond College life, a new generation of Flinders Prep students will begin in January.

■ Encourage your child to visit the toilet independently

Starting Prep is an incredibly exciting g time for these new students and their families, but for some it can also be a little daunting.

■ Get your child used to the school uniform ■ Encourage your child to practice dressing at home and teach your child how to manage their clothing during toilet visits

A strong start to school At Flinders, the Preps finish early for the first three weeks to enable them time at the end of the day to leave school in a calm and positive manner. Flinders Prep p teachers advise the following: ■ Don't over schedule your child's day and limit or stop all after school activities for a period of time to allow them to relax after a full school day

The Prep year at Flinders is all about setting up students for a successful school journey.

■ View your child as capable and independent. For example, let them carry their own school bag

The main aim is to build confidence and enthusiasm for school life and inspire a love of learning.

■ Get to know your child's teacher.

Relationship building between teacher, parent and student is very important- Read, read, read and then read some more teach and every day. Exposure to books and vocabulary is the best start for all learners

The Prep year at Flinders is all about setting the students up for a successful school journey.

Flinders

During the year and throughout their time at Flinders the students will learn about each other and develop a sense of belonging, a firm foundation in literacy and numeracy, whilst also

Explore, experience, excel

developing positive attitudes, dispositions and character traits.

We support them to grow in confidence, independence and develop a love of learning that should serve them well throughout their school life and beyond.

Flinders Prep teachers look forward to welcoming all the new Preps and their families to the College in January 2019.

■ Develop home routines with regular times for your child to eat, play and sleep each day. This will help your child know what to expect and what is expected of him or her once they start school ■ Involve your child in getting things ready for their first day. Help them to pack their own food and bag. It encourages independence and also ensures children are familiar with their own belongings

As one of the leading schools in Queensland, Flinders is dedicated to educating for excellence in learning and life.

To find out how we inspire our Prep to Year 12 students to learn, lead and serve, and to book your personalised tour, visit us at www.mfac.edu.au.

12405621-49-18

14 SUMMER 2018/19

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Inspired BY EXAMPLE SIENA Catholic Primary School is community guided by the principles and teachings of St Catherine of Siena and built around the pillars of Prayer, Care and Learning.

Our vision and aspirations are aligned with the broader vision of Brisbane Catholic Education.

The primary focus is to provide an holistic education, where each child's academic, physical, emotional, spiritual, cultural and developmental needs are nurtured and catered for.

We strive to uphold the Christian values of our Catholic faith in the daily life of the school.

Siena Catholic Primary School has a strong sense of community, evident in a warm and welcoming school environment where each student is valued and nurtured.

The school embraces parental involvement and actively supports the professional development of all staff in order to provide a contemporary approach to learning and teaching.

Children have opportunities to experience a diverse range of additional learning activities, catering for a range of interests and capabilities.

As a Catholic faith community, Siena Catholic Primary School inspires students with a love of learning and a heart of hope, empowering them to shape and enrich our world.

Following in the footsteps of Jesus Christ and inspired by the example of St Catherine of Siena, we are committed to: ■ Prayer - by nurturing and growing our relationship with God as members of a faith community.

■ Care - by fostering respect, recognition of difference, compassion for others and the courage to act on our beliefs.

■ Learning - by developing the knowledge, attitudes and skills essential to reach our potential as learners.

Teaching kids ABOUT THE UNIVERSE TEACHING a child about the universe is fun and has many benefits.

Astronomy expert Kirsten Banks says parents needn't wait to teach their kids about space, and has given her top tips for making the learning journey a fun one.

"I think we should educate kids about astronomy very early in life," she said.

"Speculating the wonders of the universe can promote an incredible imagination and fulfil a sense of place in the universe."

Ms Banks, an Aboriginal astronomy educator who works at the Sydney Observatory, said parents teaching their kids about space should focus on how

exciting and colourful it is.

oversized screen," she said.

"When teaching children about space, I like to focus on the wonderment of it all," she said.

"I realised in that moment that I needed to learn more about the universe, I had to study space and astronomy."

"How big it is, how vast it is. It's all about inspiring children to want to learn more for themselves."

Ms Banks' interest in astronomy began during a high school excursion to an IMAX theatre, where she and her classmates watched a documentary about the Hubble Space Telescope.

"I remember sitting there in the theatre, with the one size fits none 3D glasses sliding off my face, watching as incredible photos of space taken by this phenomenal telescope flashed upon the

Ms Banks said there were many great fun activities that parents could do with their children to support an exciting learning environment in astronomy and space.

"One simple thing you can do is go out at night and look up at the night sky," she said.

She also recommended a new kids game called Starlink: Battle for Atlas.

In the toys-to-life game, players mix and match pilots, hulls, wings, and

weapons to build the starship of their dreams.

"Starlink is a wonderful learning environment that promotes imagination and exploration and gets the whole family involved," Ms Banks said.

Learning about the space system may throw up a few surprises, even for parents.

"One thing that surprises almost everyone I encounter, and it even surprises me, is just how big space is and how big things in space can get," Ms Banks said.

"It's incredibly hard to completely understand and fathom just how massive the universe is."

Every Child Every Day Our vision: As a Catholic faith community, Siena Catholic Primary School inspires students with a love of learning and a heart of hope, empowering them to shape and enrich our world.

12404016-SN50-18

At Siena Catholic Primary School, we value: %XCELLENCE s )NTEGRITY s *USTICE s (OPE

Siena Catholic Primary School 3IPPY $OWNS $RIVE s 3IPPY $OWNS 1LD Prayer Care Learning

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

SUMMER 2018/19 15

Catholic schools A

FIRM FAVOURITE FOR

families TWO new schools will join the Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) community of schools in 2019 adding to the extraordinary story of Catholic education in Queensland.

Good Samaritan Catholic College at Bli Bli and St Joseph's College at Coomera, join BCE's 139 primary and secondary schools already providing a faith-based, high quality, affordable education to families from Childers in the north, south to the Gold Coast and west to Kingaroy.

The two Prep to Year 12 schools are part of a number of new Catholic school constructions scheduled in the coming years, spanning South East Queensland.

BCE Executive Director Pam Betts said it was important the Catholic Church expanded its mission into new and growth areas.

Miss Betts said the provision of

Catholic education in these new growth areas of the archdiocese was always at the service of the evangelising mission of the Church.

"While we seek to bring high quality education to all the students in our schools, it is always within the context of the message of Jesus Christ and the mission of the Church, the community of believers, which proclaims, teaches, challenges and transforms the world," Ms Betts said.

Miss Betts said Catholic schools, working closely with parishes and the wider communities, were the face of the Church to families seeking support for their challenging work of parenting.

She said committed staff, firmly focused on the challenges of the 21st century, ensured all Catholic families, regardless of their financial situation, were welcomed.

The Underwood and Flannery cousins are looking forward to the opening of Good Samaritan Catholic College at Bli Bli. Catholic schools now educate one in five Queensland children and a central bedrock of caring for students' faith is what sets us apart from other education providers.

Our primary and secondary schools take a holistic view of education that encompasses more than just the academic opportunities provided.

Students gain a sense of identity, purpose, success and wellbeing within the context of a Catholic community.

They are seen as active participants in the learning process and their spiritual, physical, emotional, and social development is of equal importance.

As welcoming communities, those of different cultural backgrounds and faith traditions are also made to feel at home.

Students excel in a variety of cultural pursuits such as music, drama and sports and graduates gain university places while others move on to a wide variety of professional and technical careers.

With places quickly filling as more families choose a Catholic education, now is the time for parents to think about enrolling for 2020 and beyond.

To find a Catholic school near you visit www.brisbanecatholicschools.com. au or call (07) 3033 7000.

If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday, we rob them of tomorrow.

John Dewey

A Catholic education ensures your child is engaged, challenged and provided with clear expectations.

All our teachers seek opportunities for every student’s progress and Brisbane Catholic Education sets ambitious targets for improving classroom performance.

Find out more about a Brisbane Catholic Education for your child.

12403589-SN50-18

16 SUMMER 2018/19

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Students flourish in a small school OUR Lady of the Rosary (OLR) offers your child a sound academic education in a Catholic environment.

We are a co-educational Catholic Parish School situated on the Sunshine Coast, in the picturesque beachside city of Caloundra.

OLR is a small school of 335 students in Prep to Year Six (14 classes), and this enables us to be a tightly-knit community where we know every student and their family.

OLR shares with students and parents a welcoming family atmosphere, great community spirit and an active parent body.

Our school has a caring, progressive staff and offers a dynamic, evolving curriculum, based on academic excellence, gospel values and spiritual awareness.

OLR was opened in 1980 by the Sisters of St Joseph and was solidly built on the Catholic Christian tradition and the Charism of Mary MacKillop.

The quote from Mary Mackillop which states, "Never see a need without doing something about it" is a firmly established 'catch-cry' at our school which often drives our purpose as a Catholic learning community.

These traditions are highly valued

and have continued to thrive through the joint efforts of staff, parents, students, parish and the wider community.

Through these traditions, OLR school community strives to shape the uniqueness of our individual 'spirits' to create a communal spirituality which is characterised by our motto: 'to pray, to care, to share'.

Our Lady of the Rosary provides a positive and vibrant environment.

Children are accepted into OLR on the understanding that you fully support the ethos and policies of the school.

Our aim is to create an excellent school by having all stakeholders working together.

Communication is an important part of any partnership.

In classroom matters, the first point of contact is the classroom teacher. In other matters, please feel free to approach the office.

Primary school is an important step in a child's development as a learner and as an individual.

Your child's journey, with your help, can be one, which is made with increasing confidence.

With a united approach, OLR is able to provide a vibrant and positive environment.

Our Lady of the Rosary has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Maximising learning in a caring Catholic community We focus on building strong characters, promoting virtues which will encourage excellent work habits, a strong moral compass and a respect for others.

Our goal is for our children to be successful learners who love learning.

Crn Edmund & Alfred Streets Shelly Beach, Caloundra QLD 4551. P 5491 4522. www.olr.qld.edu.au 12404013-DC46-18

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

SUMMER 2018/19 17

Entertainment

Little Seed Theatre Company returns to fine form with the Fantastic Mr Fox in January.

Where ideas, inspiration and the individual are believed in LITTLE Seed Theatre Company was created to grow stories and people.

It is a company where ideas, inspiration and the individual are believed in.

These three crooks concoct a plan to dig Mr Fox out of his home, but they underestimate the Fantastic Mr Fox and how far he'll go to save his family.

After the stand-out success of Wicked in October, Little Seed Theatre Company returns to fine form with the Fantastic Mr Fox in January.

Mr Fox is played by Noosa District State School student Oscar Long, while Tia Liddell, currently studying at Sunshine Beach State High School, takes on the role of Mrs Fox.

Roald Dahl's beloved, best-selling story follows the adventures of Mr Fox, who steals food from the horrible farmers Boggis, Bunce and Bean - one fat, one short, one lean.

"Little Seed is doing rich, full-length versions of plays and musicals that challenge our young performers and delight audiences," says Little Seed's Director, Johanna Wallace.

Roald Dahl's Jan 10 & 11

The play, adapted by David Wood, will be staged at the Independent Theatre Eumundi, which has been recently revamped to attract new audiences.

will be staged at the Eumundi School of Arts Hall, which has been recently revamped to attract new audiences.

"We are so excited to be taking quality performances to the Hinterland," Johanna adds.

Showtimes for Thursday 11 January are: 11am and 2.30pm

The cast of talented actors are complemented by an orchestra of young musicians who have created an original 'soundscape' that supports the action on stage.

The play, adapted by David Wood,

You won't want to miss all the fun of this one on 11 January and 12 January.

Showtimes on Friday 12 January are: 2.30pm and 6.30pm This wonderfully wild performance will be one to book early.

Phone 0407 87 32 32 or check out www.little-seed.com.au for more information.

The Fantastic Mr Fox by

Eumundi

Adapted by David Wood

Details and Booking:

www.little-seed.com.au www.little seed.com.a

An Amateur Production by Arrangement with Origin Theatrical n behalf of Samuel French Ltd

Photo Richard Wallace

Holiday Programs Little Seed's holiday programs are facilitated by experienced staff and expert guest teachers from around the world. These Monday to Friday courses allow young performers who are passionate about acting and musical theatre to develop performance skills, teamwork and a sense of belonging.

For details and booking visit:

www.little-seed.com.au 12402696-LN50-18

18 SUMMER 2018/19

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

reality bites

The light through the shadows Acknowledging her grief is ssomething Amy has also learned to master. A weekend of sharing sacred m ttime with her clients and their families iin their homes, as two souls pass away peacefully, pain-free and surrounded p by their loved ones, is not something b many of us could take on and we talk m about why she feels compelled to do a tthis work.

By Hollie Harris HOW does a woman, who sits through someone's last precious moments alive every day for work, find more compassion and unconditional love for her young family at the end of a shift?

With his daughter curled up on a recliner at his side and a beloved cat snuggled into his feet, just as she had done on all other nights, a 70-year-old man takes his last breaths while his nurse prepares for his departure.

"I initially got into community nursing 12 years ago - I truly underestimated 1 ffirstly how complex and specialised it would be, and secondly how much I w would love it. That was my first w iintroduction to palliative nursing and it was life-altering," she says. w

After holding each other through the man's last breath and shedding tears together, palliative care nurse and mother of three, Amy Cadd drove away from the people who she had met only a few days earlier with tears trailing down her cheeks.

Full of gratitude that she had been able to hold space for them during their most vulnerable, private moment, she headed home to her three children and husband, tucked up in their beds.

I talk with Amy about how she finds joy and meaning in a life lived where her work is spent in the shadow of death (literally) and how she maintains an optimistic view of the world to instil in her children.

"As far as how it feels, I feel honoured to be in the homes and lives of these people and their families. It's a privilege that I don't take lightly," she says.

"To be with people while they are dying or after they have died is very special. The depth of relationship that is formed with the dying person as well as their loved ones is wonderful, and I value that immensely."

"I form genuine connections and care, and I feel the loss. It doesn't mean I shouldn't do this work, it means that I'm doing it properly."

Amy with her youngest cherub, Nunyara. career, business and three children. I don't actually have an answer except that I try my best. I have good days and not so good days - days where I feel like I've got it all under control and others where I seriously feel so lost and inadequate.

"I'm learning to be gentle with myself and my self-expectations, and I'm very grateful for friends who I can share authentically with and who give me perspective and encouragement.

"There are those little moments when you observe your children and get overwhelmed with love and adoration for how amazing they are, and how lucky I am.

Palliative care came about initially from hospice care, which is end-of-life care. The palliative part was intended to make patient's lives more comfortable, to reduce suffering and increase quality of life.

"Winton is my eldest - he's 13 and such a joy. His humour and optimism are uplifting and he thrives in whatever situation he's in. I'm very proud of how well he's flowed with his father and I parting ways when he was young.

Palliative care nurses need to cope with death, but they also need to learn to cope with personal loss. The nature of the care nurses' work revolves around loss, and that can lead to them bearing a large burden which can affect their livelihoods.

"I remarried and then Mindari came into our world when Winton was 8. She was born at home in water - a truly magical experience that ignited an increased respect in me for empowerment and choices in birthing.

She's a powerhouse of passion and creativity - never a dull moment. Then we had a sad loss, Dhungala died in my womb at 24 weeks gestation.

Despite the sadness and devastation, I birthed him into my hands at Nambour Hospital with just me, Mindari and my husband in the room and it was a profound experience.

"It definitely has the potential to wear me down. But there is so much that also enriches me, and this work feels so natural."

So juggling such an intense career and three children must be difficult?

"I'm often asked how I manage my

"Our completion is Nunyara 3, a deep and grounded soul who makes each of us laugh at least once everyday - she's our bubble of joy and love."

I ask Amy what are some of the precious things her children have taught her.

"Patience, resilience, self-reflection, growth, humility, joy, wonder and presence. That I'm stronger than I give myself credit for and that I have the capacity to love another human beyond comprehension. And that the days may seem long, but the years fly by - so I try to remind myself to be grateful and revel in them as much as I can."

"This work also keeps me very grounded, and reminds me to value my family, friends, community and the beauty of our natural surroundings.

Being part of an amazing team at Little Haven also allows me to express my emotions and frustrations authentically - we all look out for each other really well."

Age and experience have taught Amy to recognise when she needs to step back from all of her responsibilities and to step up with her own self-care.

"This can include time spent at the beach, fun activities with family and friends, and immersing myself in creative arts like dance, music, writing and art. It's important to be nurtured, as we can't give from an empty cup," she says.

Holding space in the dying process for families seems a monumental task difficult to grasp. Predicting what the fundamental needs of each different family will be is a gift which, surely, cannot be taught.

"It's as unique as each person is. Each person's journey brings it's own challenges. Sometimes they require space and silence and others settle best with the laughter and chatter of family all around them," Amy says.

"For me, I use a combination of my nursing assessment experience, my intuition and listening, to work out how best to assist each family."

We rarely stop and think about the unusual ways some Australians earn a crust and what it is that drives and sustains them when their work pushes them to their emotional or physical limits.

Amy possesses a unique combination of incredible strength and resilience with a truly engaged heart, which enables her sincerity to translate to the families she cares for in their darkest hours, while keeping enough to sustain her young family.

"Working in palliative care gifts me with the continual reminder to be grateful for each day and each precious member of my family and friends," she says."The abundance of life, energy and joyful exuberance in my children beautifully balances the natural gentleness and stillness of dying, and when I encounter scenes like this that take my breath away, I am reminded to be grateful and breathe in the magic of the moment."

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SUMMER 2018/19 19

reality bites

By Hollie Harris

Most stylish

WHEN we think about style and fashion, we think Melbourne, we think Italy, we think designers.

Here on the Coast, we have a thongs-on-the-weekend rule and work days rarely mean a tie or heels - we are just more casual here.

Lucia and her beautiful girl, Cinzia.

That is, unless you're local mum and fashionista Lucia Cimino, who has Melbourne, Italy and designers in her blood.

Recently winning the title of the Most Stylish on the Sunshine Coast at the Sunshine Coast Fashion Festival, Italian born Lucia's flirtation with fashion began as a young child growing up in Melbourne.

"My mumma and l loved fabrics!

Occasionally, she would buy a copy of Vogue Child and we would flick through the pages together 'ooohing' and 'ahhhing' over the images of beautiful kids clothing," Lucia says.

"One of my most memorable and absolutely favourite dresses was off the front cover of Vogue Child. A royal blue velvet shift dress with white lace collar and cuffs.

"I loved it so much that mum went out and found the royal blue velvet and the beautiful white lace and she made me that dress. It made me feel magical and it was just like the one on the cover," she says.

And a life-long love of fashion was born. Having a garment made specifically for her body, made to measure, and being involved in the designing and making process ignited a passion she would experiment with in the years to come.

"Mum was such a creative soul that we get to play around with making stuff and experimenting. Sometimes things worked out and sometimes they didn't, but we just kept going and finding ways to make things work."

Experimenting with as many different looks and styles as she could, this Noosa stylist was influenced by the music she was listening to. Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Cocteau Twins and The Cure in those early alternative punk days, inspired a gothic/hippy look that she expressed her creative side with.

Huntingdale Tech in Melbourne was a perfect uniform-free place for this budding fashionista to rock out her creations.

"I would walk to classes in my long black slip dress with stilettos on. I felt utterly inspired. There were lots of punks and alternative kids at that school so it really didn't cause a stir."

Growing in confidence with some travel behind her, Lucia's career in fashion was about to begin in Fitzroy.

With Brunswick Street being a mecca for alternative fashion and live music, she came across a position at Melbourne's iconic and most glamorous bridal boutique, Mariana Hardwick.

"Could l really work there? Me a Hippie/goth/gypsy girl from the suburbs? I decided l would give it my best shot. I dressed up and got classy!"

encouraged me to keep dressing in my now classic vintage style and had little lipstick cases delivered to all my fellow stylists so that would have red lippy on hand, just like me. That was a huge compliment," Lucia says.

Lucia convinced the boutique to hire her and she immersed in the dreamy world of Bridal Couture for a while.

Over the years, Lucia worked for several other Australian Fashion Designers and further added to her skills with layering techniques, really focusing on dressing for body shape as well as learning the craft of Yoga, becoming a certified instructor.

"Mariana was a massive inspiration and influenced me greatly. She

"I found that the sense of calm and well-being l developed as a Yoga

20 SUMMER 2018/19

practitioner, helped me to connect with the women l was styling on a deeper level. Yoga has been an invaluable asset on my life path."

So how does she manage to look so glamorous while raising her gorgeous little ones Cinzia and Alessandro behind the scenes?

"Being a single Mum who loves to dress up is not always easy. I do many different things throughout the day with my four-year-old, but l always try to take time in the morning to dress in what makes me feel good. If l'm going to be running after him whilst he scoots

the streets l will just throw on some converse or supportive slides and off we go. Later popping heels back on."

"I understand how the easy option can be the way we choose to go because well let's face it - it's quicker!

And if there is one thing that all parents need it's time. I have a few ideas that might help you look and feel great and still have plenty of time to get your little cherubs ready for the day also."

Lucia's tips for busy mums â– Pick your outfit the night before.

Before you crash on that comfy bed of yours have a little moment www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

reality bites

mum shirts and funky t-shirts for him, paired with dark denim or shorts. I then let him choose what he feels like wearing.

"My daughter has moved out of the tu-tu and crocheted singlets phase and becoming a little more grown up she sketches outfits regularly. David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust comes to mind! Her more casual look is denim overall shorts and dresses with funky stripes or spots underneath. Contrasting leggings, lover of converse runners and big high pony tail or braids. I definitely think she will be a fashion designer."

And Lucia's style?

"I love vintage glamour and dressing up as often as possible. Sometimes l love rock 'n' roll, which is a casual look that l feel best in. Big jewels and headpieces are my go-to for going out. "l may be seen at school drop off, occasionally with fascinator flapping in the wind! I love the idea of a ballgown and bare feet, whilst walking through a field, which is how l see myself in 10 years time."

I get the idea Lucia may be a bit of a romantic. She talks about how Dolce and Gabana make her feel so happy.

The authenticity of their classic Italian style mixed with modern components inspire her style today.

"Dita Von Teese always looks incredible in her vintage glamour style.

There is a simplicity in the cut of the dress or skirt she chooses that is always fresh, yet alluring."

This mum of two truly is a dreamer, a lover of life and fashion. She lives to express the internal feelings of joy and passion that she feels inside, to the world.

"I truly believe that this is what the art of dress d is ultimately about. An internal feel feeling expressed externally. 'Dress up for life' l is my motto."

I takes a lot to hold the fort for a It you young family while juggling a career, but Lucia has learnt to balance it all and that if mum feels good, then the rest will fall into place.

thinking about what you might like to wear in the morning. Look at the weather forecast and choose accordingly.

■ You could base your outfit on a pair of earrings, a necklace and work around the colours or style of your accessories.

"I make things happen even if l am really tired! Which of course is often, as a parent of two. I know that if l speak positively to myself and get my head into a good place l can achieve anything.

"My son may have to play with Duplo beside me or watch an episode or two of Paw Patrol whilst l work so l can get the job done, but if will indeed get done."

Recently nominated for the Sunshine Coast style awards in the Most Stylish on the Coast category, Lucia was grounded and humbled. "l knew it would not alter how I was feeling about myself, but boost me further into my quest to be the best l can be. I have worked a lot on my relationship with myself this year."Lucia was announced as the winner at the Sunshine Coast Fashion Festival a couple of weeks ago.

"In loving my eccentric and passionate self whole-heartedly, l believe that the wonderful gift of Most Stylish on the Sunshine Coast came with a wink of encouragement and acknowledgement from the universe telling me 'you are all that you believe yourself to be. Shine and keep going girl!' "l don't think fashion is as important to me as dressing - dressing for life.

"I wish to bring joy to others through my expression and through the art of dress. l wish to inspire others to find their way of expressing who they are."

Lucia will be conducting fun and fabulous Styling Workshops in the new year. Connect with her via Instagram - luciacimino27

lovingly, using positive affirmations and smile at yourself in the mirror.

Believe me, this is one of the nicest gifts that you can give yourself after looking after everything and everyone else's needs throughout the day. Try it please - it will make a big difference to how you feel in the morning.

■ Think about what you want to portray - summery boho or classic retro, rock chic or pretty vintage.

Lucia's children have adopted their own cool sense of style too.

■ Not a styling tip but one that will certainly improve how you look and feel - do a little face ritual every night. Cleanse and moisturise

"I love seeing my kids express themselves through their dress. My son has just started dressing himself and is quite a cool cat. I choose little collared

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

"The juggle is real. I do my best to fit in a night a week where l get to do things l love; a cuppa with friends, some live music somewhere, catching up on writing or reading. It makes a big difference to my week if l get to enjoy a me night. I do my exercise at night too.

Once my kids are tucked in, l put on a show and jump on my exercise bike and then do some yoga.

Cinzia and Alessandro getting creative.

SUMMER 2018/19 21

books

Trying for a baby, A ROLLERCOASTER RIDE

By Melissa Grant IT'S Okay To Feel Crazy Trying to Have a Baby.

This is certainly an apt title for Dalya Shaw's debut book, which recounts her rollercoaster journey of trying to conceive.

Predominantly written in diary form, the book is a raw account of Dalya's eight-year in vitro fertilisation (IVF) journey.

It shows how the desire to have a baby can become an obsession that becomes physically, emotionally and mentally draining.

control over your happy/sad emotions.

I have felt at times like I am completely losing my marbles, like I am seriously crazy," Dalya says in her book.

It's a story that many women battling infertility issues will identify with.

There are so many ups and downs in this book, and the rollercoaster ride continues even when you think it's over.

Importantly, the story shows women that they are not alone in feeling crazy while trying to have a baby.

"I cannot believe the impact this IVF business has had on me. I know it's major thing we're doing here but it is still really strange to have absolutely no

This is a great read for women struggling to conceive or thinking about undergoing IVF. It's Okay to Feel Crazy Trying to Have a Baby Balboa Press

Children's Christmas books..

Dear Santa

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Macca's Christmas Crackers

Elise Hartley & Shannon Horsfall

Johnny Marks, illustrated by Louis Shea

Matt Cosgrove

DEAR Santa is a great book to read at Christmas time and features letters to the jolly man in a red suit. Kids will love pulling letters out of the envelopes and lifting the flaps to discover what the animal characters want for Christmas.

Skunk naturally wants perfume and then there’s mouse who last year accidently asked for a cat instead of a car. A funny and beautifully illustrated book that’s perfect for the festive season.

CHRISTMAS wouldn’t be Christmas without a rendition of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

Scholastic, RRP $19.99

This book comes with a CD recording of the popular festive tune performed by singer and actress Penny McNamee.

Funny illustrations run alongside the lyrics to breathe new life into the well-known song, which was composed by Johnny Marks way back in 1949.

Hopping around the Christmas Tree

Excuse Me, Santa!

John Marks & Benjamin Johnston

Dave Hughes & Holly Ife, illustrated by Philip Bunting

AUSSIE animals abound in this Christmas title which comes with a CD that will have the whole family singing along.

The book is colourfully illustrated accompanied by lyrics to the song Hopping Around, performed by Colin Buchanan. The song will sound familiar - it’s a rejig of the classic Christmas hit Rockin’ Around. With fun animal characters and easy to read print, this title is great for younger readers.

KIDS will love this funny flatulence story, which is a Christmas sequel to the bestselling Excuse Me! In this explosive tale by TV/radio personality Dave Hughes and wife Holly Ife, a girl with impeccable manners called Martha May unexpectedly meets Santa. Martha May decides it’s a good idea to offer him some of her Great Aunt Edith’s Christmas Pudding. The thing is she keeps feeding him until... there is an almighty explosion.

Scholastic, RRP $19.99

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

Weirdo 11 Splashy Weird - Anh Do, Illustrated by Jules Faber

It's Not Scribble To Me Kate Ritchie

The Luna Moonies - Edward Zammit

WEIR Do just doesn't want to go to the school swimming carnival. In fact, he's been trying his hardest to get out of it. He even draws spots on his skin so it looks like he has a rash. He fails to fool his parents and ends up agreeing to go.

The weird thing is the carnival is nowhere near as bad he thought it would be. Weir even ends up surprising himself. An entertaining story that shows winning isn't everything.

IF you have young kids, you'll be familiar with surprising artworks. The scribbles that come from little people's fingers is the theme of this book by author and radio personality Kate Ritchie.

THE Luna Moonies are colourful celestial characters who live on a mystical moon.

MACCA the Alpaca is back for Christmas! Turns out the lovable character is Christmas obsessed and loves dressing up as Santa.

This title follows the popular Macca the Alpaca and Alpacas with Maracas books.

Bursting with cracking illustrations, this one explores friendship, creativity, generosity and the spirit of giving. With simple and rhyming text, this is perfect for pint-sized readers.

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

Children's books..

Dinosaurs Rock Beau Young & Shelley Craft, Illustrated by Susy Boyer

Ella and Olivia: Sisters' Day Out Stories - Yvette Poshogilan & Danielle McDonald

IF you're a young child, then dinosaurs certainly do rock! Kids will love this beautifully illustrated book and accompanying CD.

ELLA and Olivia are back! The popular sisters return with six colourful new adventures that young girls will love.

Little dino fans will learn all about the Diplodocus, Triceratops, Parasaur and almighty t-rex during an adventure led by singer songwriter Beau Young and television presenter Shelley Craft.

The brightly illustrated book gets off to a cute start with a kitten called Socks who, in the end, gives Ella and Olivia a greater appreciation for their own pet, a dog named Bob. Ella and Olivia also share their excitement at being flower girls for their Aunty Merryl's wedding and go on a fishing trip.

Bear has so many wonderful, wild and beautiful ideas that paper isn't enough to hold them all. So the entire house is covered in his colourful art. But can Bear convince everyone that it is more than just 'scribbles'?

This book follows Silver Moon, Mystic Moon, Blue Moon, Full Moon, Harvest Moon and Strawberry Moon who spend their days harvesting the mystical dust that falls from the stars, while fighting against the evil Moon Shadow.

You may have already heard of The Luna Moonies they're also a children's band!

There are five prehistoric songs plus a sixth bonus track performed by Beau (whose sound is described as Jack meets The Wiggles)

A colourful and cleverly illustrated book perfect for girls aged 5+

Families will relate to this funny story of toddler cheekiness and charm.

The characters are the creation of Edward Zammit, an author and toy inventor of 25 years. A fun and educational book.

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

Scholastic, RRP $16.99

Puffin, RRP $19.99

New Holland Publishers, RRP $16.99

22 SUMMER 2018/19

Scholastic, RRP $15.99

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

What's on

this summer UNTIL 15 DECEMBER Medieval fun with Sir Justyn at the Castle at Bli Bli Castle

residential horse riding camps during all Queensland school holidays, as well as long weekend camps and day camps.

Whether your child is new to horses or is a competitive rider, every holiday at Kiah Park is bound to be full of wonderful adventures. You will need to get your booking in early as camps fill up quickly. Visit www.kiahpark.com.au

Explore the medieval world at Sunshine Castle, Bli Bli.

Well-known medieval performer, educator and Sunshine Castle resident Knight Sir Justyn, features regularly in the Sunshine Castle school holiday programs and returns for his monthly displays at the castle. Be sure not to miss the canon fire or the weapons and armour talks, or one of his everchanging archery challenges, jousting or trebuchet firing activities. See how he makes fire or hear the medieval canon go off. A big call out to all young archers to learn or perfect how to shoot the medieval longbow (rubber-tip arrows) under the guidance of Sir Justyn. Free with castle entry.

14-15 DECEMBER, 7PM

2018

Wassail Christmas Cheer Concert You'll be bursting with joy when you're part of the Christmas fun at Noosa Chorale's 'Wassail'. Joy is the theme for this year's extravaganza of carols and glorious music highlighted by Beethoven's inspirational 'Ode to Joy'.

Join the Chorale in singing traditional carols like 'O Come All Ye Faithful' and 'Hark the Herald Angels Sing' all the while enjoying hearty Christmas Cheer cake, mince pies and cheese platters. $39 Adult / $35 Group Bookings tables of 8 / $25 Child 16 and Under

14-18 DECEMBER Rip Curl Gromsearch Sunshine Coast The Rip Curl GromSearch is a worldwide series of events designed for grommets.

The GromSearch Series runs in 10 different countries with over 5000 competitors worldwide. This year, the winner of each division in each respective event of the series will be guaranteed entry into the national final.

Their seed in the national final will be determined by their best two results total on the 2018 Rip Curl GromSearch Rankings. Register at www. surfingqueensland.com.au www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au

14 JANUARY - 25 JANUARY Coast Club School Holiday Activities Sunshine Coast

21 DECEMBER Christmas Night Market at Eumundi Markets Come between 5pm-9pm for retail therapy under the stars with a fabulous selection of art and craft stalls. There's nowhere more relaxed for Christmas shopping! Your tastebuds will love the night market too - with delicious fare from all corners of the globe. Santa will be arriving on the Eumundi fire truck at approximately 6pm and will then be available for photos with visitors. Get into the festive groove with live music and be entertained by colourful street performers.

22 DECEMBER Aussie World Christmas Spectacular It's almost the most wonderful time of the year! And to celebrate the festive season this annual Christmas Spectacular is back on Saturday 22 December. Meet Santa and Mrs Claus, come face-to-face with Christmas characters, enjoy the roving carollers, watch the fireworks, meet the Aussie Kids and watch the Christmas show in The Shed. There will also be snow, pyrotechnics, laser-shows, Christmas lights and live entertainment. Gate prices will be higher, so save time and money by booking online at www. aussieworld.com.au

27 DECEMBER - 1 JANUARY Woodford Folk Festival More than 2000 local, national and international, artists, musicians and presenters put on over 438 acts to an audience of an estimated 132,000 people. The festival begins each year with the iconic Opening Ceremony and closes with the spectacular showcase, the Fire Event on New Year's Day. A truly incredible experience for the entire family. Find out about the line-up and tickets at www.woodfordfolkfestival.com

31 DECEMBER Family New Years Eve with Furry Friends Talk about a New years party with a difference! This year Villa Noosa have decided to do something different by inviting you to take the family in to enjoy the New Year celebrations and cuddle some animals at the same time. Old MacDonald's Travelling farm will be there from 5.30pm, so book your table and get up close and personal with all the little cuties. Call 07 5430 5555 for more info and bookings.

DECEMBER - 19 JANUARY Summer Horse Riding Camps for Kids Kiah Park is a horse riding facility where school-aged children are engaged in the excitement of spending time outdoors. There are seven-day

During the school holidays the Sunshine Coast Recreation Centre will be running half day (three hour) and full day (six hour) activity programs for children eight years and over. Parents and families welcome. Activities on offer are archery, body boarding, caving, giant swing, surfing, high ropes and more. Places fill fast. Register now at https://www.qld. gov.au/recreation/activities/areasfacilities/centres/camps-and-activities/ school-holiday-activities-at-coast-club

18 JANUARY - 20 JANUARY The Ginger Flower and Food Festival at The Ginger Factory The 2019 Ginger Flower and Food Festival dates have been confirmed. Join in for three glorious days of fabulous flowers, delicious food and live entertainment.

Discover the Ginger Flower and Food Festival, an incredible celebration of Queensland's sub-tropical climate that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

SATURDAY 2 FEBRUARY FROM 1.30PM-4.30PM

5

The Secrets To A Blissful Postpartum Would you love to learn how you can best prepare for the first six weeks of motherhood (and beyond) so that you can thrive, not just survive? Head along to a relaxed afternoon workshop where we'll be sharing our professional knowledge, experiences and wisdom on all things relating to postnatal health as well as the 5 secrets to planning a blissful postpartum This workshop is for you whether you're a first time mum to be, or this is bub number five! Handouts and afternoon tea will be provided including recipes for some fabulous postpartum snacks and meals. Babies welcome and receive a free goodie bag on arrival.

Tickets $36.89 at Eventbrite SUMMER 2018/19 23

Make memories that last with Santa in his enchanted rainforest this Christmas.

Have your photo taken with him and receive a special gift. Plus, write a letter in the craft zone and pop it into the post box.

Every letter receives a reply, so be sure to include your return address!

Sensory Santa and Santa Paws sessions also available, bookings essential.

For full details, Santa hours and photo prices, visit noosacivic.com.au.

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24 SUMMER 2018/19

www.sunshinecoastkidstoday.com.au