WINTER 2022
Explore
REDWOOD FOREST A parenting
CULTURE CLASH 365 days of
PLAY
www.yarrarangeskids.com.au
AUTUMN 2021 1
About Us
Warming up for that winter glow AHH the crisp air of winter has arrived. As we brace for the rain and winds of winter we realise the cold weather doesn’t mean we need to stay cooped up indoors - including in our own backyard! The Redwood Forest in Warburton is especially magical at this time of year. There are many benefits of getting outside and lettings the cold air into your lungs and exploring what the local area has to offer. Doctors say there are many positives of getting outdoors and breathing in the
cold air and getting some sunlight increases circulation, vitamin D and can boost your immune system. And that’s something all families need as we approach our first winter without a lockdown in some years. There are so many great places to explore, restaurants that will warm those winter bellies and places to take the kids to explore. So rug up and get outside, the kids will love it and you can support so many local businesses who have spent the last few years doing it tough.
And for those of you wanting to stay inside with the kids, mum Erica Carew has you covered with 365 days of play or for those winter rashes, author Charlotte Rassmussen has got you covered with natural remedies. I can’t wait to take the kids outside to splash in muddy puddles and play in the rain. Stay healthy and have fun,
Yarra Ranges Kids magazine is a Mail News Group publication. Yarra Ranges Kids will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays.
Yarra Ranges Kids 244 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, Vic 3777 Phone: 5957 3700 Fax: 5957 3777
Editorial Melissa Meehan melissa.meehan @starnewsgroup.com.au
CONTENTS
Phone: 5945 0666
Advertising Andy Jukes
IT’S YOUR LIFE
EDUCATION
ACTIVITIES
It takes a village
Balancing tech use
Paint your own pottery
andy.jukes@ starnewsgroup.com.au
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5945 0643
You can’t do it alone
Play to while winter away
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PAGE 11
BOOKS
Prepare to hit the road
Caring and committed
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PAGE 11
Published by Mail News Group Pty Ltd ACN 99 006 310 498. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Mail News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.
Preparation pays off
Building better brains
PAGE 5
PAGE 12
Explore the Redwoods
Education the Steiner way
HEALTH
PAGES 6-7
PAGE 13
Nitty gritty of the titty
Fostering siblings in need
Modern faith
PAGE 21
PAGE 16
PAGE 14
Circus to cause a Ruccis
Our best childcare worker
KIDS CALENDAR
PAGE 16
Get ready, Mama! PAGE 20 Discover new children’s books PAGE 20
What’s on this winter
PAGE 14
Diabetes and motherhood
Festival’s more than nuts
PAGE 18
PAGE 15
Beetroot red velvet cakes
Proud to be local
PAGE 19
PAGE 15
PAGE 22
WINTER 2022
Explore
REDWOOD FOREST A parenting
CULTURE CLASH 365 days of
PLAY
www.yarrarangeskids.com.au
AUTUMN 2021 1
Cover Grace and Amelia Kaberry explore local bushlands all rugged up for winter. Picture: Rob Carew
yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au 2 Winter 2022
facebook.com/yarrarangeskids
instagram.com/yarraranges_kids www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
It’s Your Life
Longing for community
Angelie and her daughter Talia. Picture: Rob Carew
By Casey Neill A PARENTING culture clash caught Woori Yallock mum Angelie Chandler off-guard when daughter Talia arrived. Born and raised in the Philippines, Angelie longs for the village-style approach to parenting she witnessed growing up. She’d always wanted to be a mum, but wasn’t sure if she’d ever be ready for the challenge. After three years of trying naturally with husband Allan, she went in for endometriosis surgery and followed up with medications, intrauterine insemination (IUI) and, finally, IVF. She experienced bad side effects from the injections and had to pause for her hormones to balance out, and doctors had to increase her dosage because of her endometriosis, which meant two injections instead of one. But it was all worth it - they got four embryos. “So I don’t have to do the injections again,” she said. They conceived Talia on their first transfer, but news that they were finally pregnant wasn’t the joyous moment they’d longed for. “Even Allan said, because it was expected, you didn’t get the ‘oh yay’. It was ‘oh it worked’,” Angelie said. “It took away a bit of the excitement. It’s not like a natural excitement. It’s a different type of excitement.” An 18-hour labour at The Angliss ended in a forceps delivery in theatre. “She had to go to special care for a night, so they fed her there and did what they needed to and I was able to sleep the first night,” she said. “That was the last sleep I got for a year and a half.” Angelie had to wake Talia every two hours to feed her, to grow her tiny 2 kilogram birth weight. www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
“It was harder than I thought,” she said of motherhood. “It was such a shock, and a bad shock. “Being Filipino, what I saw growing up… “What I experienced here was isolating and it didn’t help that there was Covid isolation on top of that. “I think I had all these expectations that it was different back home to here. “You don’t have to drive. It’s a small community, the other parents and kids are there. “Even your neighbours would help out with your kids while you sleep or something. “You have help here, but it’s not as constant or consistent as there. “Most of my family members there, nieces and nephews, it would just be expected that they help out. “It doesn’t matter how old they are. If they’re 10, 12, and capable of doing a task, they help out. “My head’s just there. “I feel like in that environment she (Talia) would thrive a lot more.” Angelie is struggling with the idea of having another child without the community support network she craves. “I’m scared to go through that again,” she said. “It’s really hard knowing what it would be like back home, but I’m doing the exact opposite.” She works to bring touches of her homeland to her parenting life in Australia, like speaking to Talia in Filipino. “Eventually I’ll put her into Filipino school. She is three quarters Filo. It would be good for her to know even just the language,” she said. Angelie urged prospective mums to build their community before adding a
Talia.
baby to the mix, and to consider what they wanted motherhood to be. “Picture what will work for your family and for you, and prepare for that life,” she said. Having said that, she found maternity leave changed her perspective. “What I used to want to be career-
wise, it’s not as satisfying anymore,” she said. “I don’t want anything taking up my time that’s not worthy of taking my time away from Talia. “But it still needs to financially serve us as a family. I wish I’d thought more about it before Talia.” Winter 2022 3
It’s Your Life
We all need each other to feel okay We all need each other to feel okay, writes STEVE BIDDULPH ONE of my biggest heroes is a psychiatrist called Dr. Gabor Mate. He works in Vancouver, Canada, with street people and especially drug addicts. He is well into his 80’s, and on you can find him on YouTube. He looks like a kindly turtle with scrawny neck and big soft eyes. My family tell me I am slowly turning into him! Gabor had a rough childhood. He was born in Hungary just as the Nazis were invading. And he was Jewish. Baby Gabor wasn’t sleeping very well, and his mum rang their family paediatrician. The old doctor told her - yes my dear, (and these words still send a chill down my spine) none of my Jewish babies are sleeping. The message of this story, which he often shares, is that when the parents are worried, then the kids are worried too. To use a not very scientific term - “they pick up on it”. Coming back to the present day, this puts every one of us who is bringing up children - of any age, into a difficult position. We know, almost instinctively, that our kids really do best if we ourselves are calm and happy. But you can’t fake those things. And all around us are reasons to be very very stressed. This is not a family friendly world that our politicians or employers have created, and just buying or renting a house and feeding everyone is getting
harder. Every family feels it. I am hearing this every day from families on my Facebook community for parents of boys. Each month I award a Comment of the Month prize for the best comment, and this month’s was to a nurse and mother, who had three special needs children, and a partner who was on deployment in the army! She made such great comments about how impossible life was becoming with the dual expectations of school and work. Others were coming onboard, with supportive or agreeing comments. We couldn’t do much practical, but it was good just to share stories. For a brief half hour, we all felt like we were a tribe, in the same boat, and caring about each other. Social media is a two edged sword, it can turn nasty in a matter of seconds and leave you feeling worse. But the point is true. We really need connection
every single day with people who have time for us, and listen to us, and don’t shame us for the pain we are in.
the evening is often the only time we have to really be a family, this mini break can get it off to a better start.
So this is the message I want to give you (sorry, it was a slow way to get around to it). - you can’t handle life on your own, we just aren’t made that way. Human beings are needed to make other human beings feel okay. A baby cries and we soothe it. A child comes home from school ratty, and we hug them and let them chill, or sit and listen to what has gone wrong today. Parents getting back together at the end of a long day might need to stop the headlong rush to make dinner, and first thing have a quiet drink, some nourishing snacks, and just get into rhythm with each other to make the evening go well. Not too much talking. Not “who had the worst day” competitions. Just smiling at each other and breathing a deep breath in. Since
If you are parenting alone, then a caring friend is absolutely essential. You can feel your body letting go of stress when someone who loves you meets your eye, gives you a hug, is clearly happy to see you. We can do this for each other, we parents. Us oldies with our scrawny necks and big soft eyes can look out for the young struggling parents in our street or family circle. When parents feel loved, then they can love their children more. Together we make the world get better. Steve’s new online talk THE FULLY HUMAN PARENT is being offered by Manningham City Council on June 7th - booking link: https://www.trybooking.com/BZAAB
Be prepared before you hit the road THE following is a message from VACC Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Gwilym:
and a portable phone charger. Take cash, a torch and spare batteries, blankets and water. Carrying jumper leads is also essential.
We are approaching school holiday time and for many families that may mean the first road trip in a long while.
■ Importantly, tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
Driving is an economical and fun way to create a memorable holiday but, whether you’re going off-road or glamping, things won’t always turn out how you plan them. When it comes to road safety, the two most important things you can influence are the condition of your vehicle and your ability to drive it with care and concentration. So, here are some tips to get you there safely. ■ You should regularly conduct both internal and external visual checks of your vehicle: check whether your seatbelts, lights (including indicators and brake lights) are functioning correctly, and if there is any dangerous body or windscreen damage. Inspect all tyres for wear and ensure they’re inflated to the recommended pressure – that goes 4 Winter 2022
■ There will be lots of people on the roads during the holidays. Be patient, be courteous, and take regular rest breaks.
Make sure you and your family make it to your destination and back safely these school holidays. Picture: Supplied
for trailers and caravans, too. ■ Before heading off, check you have a roadworthy spare tyre and wheel on board, and you know how to change it. ■ Never change a tyre on the side of the road if there’s traffic close to your vehicle. Call a breakdown service instead. ■ If towing a caravan, trailer or boat, connect it properly, checking all
lights work, and you have correctly positioned the driving mirrors. ■ It is also important to make sure you know how to safely manoeuvre your vehicle and the load behind. If your skills need brushing up, be sure to practice before you leave home. ■ Fill up your tank and carry spare fuel in a safe container if you visit remote areas. ■ Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle
Maintaining your vehicle in optimum condition is a partnership involving you and your local repairer. Keeping your vehicle serviced and maintained by a trusted automotive technician is crucial. A thorough professional inspection using up-to-date specialist equipment can detect dangerous deficiencies, like worn brake pads and leaking brake lines, degraded suspension components, and misaligned wheels. Importantly, never stop learning. Road safety is not everyone else’s responsibility. It is yours. So, make sure you and your vehicle are fit for the road, and that way, we can all have a fun and safe holiday. www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
It’s Your Life
Preparation pays off By Casey Neill NOTHING can truly prepare you for parenthood, but birth? Jessie Barrington says taking time to prepare her body and mind made son Finn’s entry to the world a smooth one. Jessie, from The Basin, woke up with period pains 37 weeks into her pregnancy. “I didn’t think it was labour, because it was so minor, but I hadn’t felt anything like that my whole pregnancy,” she said. She called the hospital when her contractions were 10 minutes apart and was advised to call back when that gap was three to five minutes. “They said ‘you’re early labour, this could be a long time’,” she said.
“When I got there they were so relaxed because it was my first and I was handling the contractions quite well. “They didn’t think I was that far along.” They checked Jessie and Finn’s vitals and asked her if she wanted to go back home. “I said ‘no’ and I asked if they could check how far along I was,” she said. “The contractions started ramping up. My waters kind of broke and were dripping out with each contraction. “I passed a clot. I didn’t see it but the midwives did. That’s when they decided to check me. “If I was in early labour, passing the clot was bad, but in active labour it’s normal.”
Jessie had friends who’d been sent back home from the hospital to wait for their labour to progress, so she waited until there were three minutes between her contractions to head in.
They discovered Jessie was eight centimetres dilated.
“Three became two quite quickly,” she said.
“They broke the rest of my waters and I went straight to 9 centimetres,” she said.
They told her the average active labour was 10 hours - hers was two hours, 55 minutes.
Jess Barrington and baby Finn.
“He just dropped straight down.
ensure her pelvis was in the right position, drank raspberry leaf tea - said to help prepare the cervix and uterus from 36 weeks, and had one acupuncture appointment focused on softening her cervix.
“I think the forewaters were just holding him there.” A few more contractions took her to 10 centimetres. She pushed for an hour and Finn entered the world at 7.31pm - just three hours after she arrived at the hospital - weighing a petite 2.74 kilograms and measuring 49 centimetres long.
“I was really looking forward to doing more acupuncture, that was really nice and relaxing,” she said.
Preparing for the birth, Jessie watched a parenting class that explained the pelvis and provided stretches for before and during the birth.
“I think it all made a difference. I’d do it all again for sure.
“It just really explained how with birthing, it’s 50 per cent the mum and 50 per cent the baby,” she said. “The baby has to be in the right position.” She saw her chiro four or five times to
“I don’t know if it was mind over matter, but I’d do it again.
“My recovery was really good, too.” Jessie said her introduction to parenthood had been relentless but the best, and was becoming even more rewarding as Finn became more animated, giving smiles and giggles. “You feel bad saying it’s hard, but it’s still the best thing ever,” she said.
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Winter 2022 5
It’s Your Life
Redwood Forest’s winter wonderland
By Melissa Meehan THE perfect rows in Warburton’s Redwood forest are a sight for sore eyes - and perfect for playing hide and seek. Watch as kids (young and old) run wild with their imagination running between the trees or hiding in the wonderful nests dotted throughout the forest. On some days you might even find a tee-pee. Be sure to pack a picnic, and warm clothes in winter - but it is well and truly worth a visit. The trees are tall, but the forest is actually small in comparison - do wandering little ones are unlikely to get lost. The trees themselves are truly spectacular, with the around 1450
6 Winter 2022
California Redwoods in the Yarra Ranges National Park able to reach up to 55 metres tall, and while at full maturity – around 400-years-old – they can reach 115m. The trees can live for over 2000 years and they are among the oldest living organisms on earth. There’s a carpark right next to the forest, perfect for those with little legs or those of us who want to push a pram. The California Redwood Forest area of Yarra Ranges National Park received a $2.6 million funding boost from the state government at the beginning of the year, due to be completed mid-year in 2022. The project will add 200 car park spaces, a public toilet, a wet-weather visitor shelter and a boardwalk viewing area along the creek that runs through the National Park.
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
It’s the perfect location for an impromptu photo shoot
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Winter 2022 7
Why choose Cire? Qualified educators Purpose-built facilities Infant care to 4-year old kindergarten Large outdoor playspaces
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Interest-lead learning
Winter WINtEr
8 Winter 2022
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Education
Balancing digital technology use for young children ALMOST a third of all Australian schools are using quality online safety education providers endorsed by the federal online safety regulator. It’s an encouraging statistic given reports of cyberbullying continue to surge during the pandemic. The Trusted eSafety Provider program, which is run by the eSafety Commissioner, helps schools find providers of evidence-based and curriculum-aligned online safety education programs. eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said lockdowns and the pandemic have led Australian children to spend more time online than ever before. “As many Australians are forced online for their work and education during the pandemic, eSafety has seen a rise in reports about cyberbullying and other online harms,” Ms Inman Grant said. “Research released earlier this year found that 44 per cent of teens had a negative online experience in the six months to September 2020. Additionally, 3 in 10 children had been contacted by a stranger online.” Ms Inman Grant said it is vital that
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
schools teach their students how to stay safe with online strategies. These strategies include being an ‘upstander’ when they see bullying online and knowing how to seek help when something doesn’t feel right. “Providers endorsed by the Trusted eSafety Provider program can work with schools to educate students about these topics,” she said. Ms Inman Grant said it was pleasing to see Australian schools take a huge interest in the educational programs, which have the the eSafety tick of approval. “In the last financial year, 2772 schools - or about 29 per cent of all Australian schools - had at least one session from a Trusted eSafety Provider,” she said. “The majority of the participants in the programs have been students but parents and teachers have also taken part in the programs to learn about such topics as cyberbullying, imagebased abuse, and respectful online relationships.” The eSafety Commissioner works with the providers to ensure they are up-todate with the latest online safety
research, trends and practices. There are currently 37 Trusted eSafety Providers offering a diverse range of services across each state and territory with at least 30 delivering programs online.
More details about the eSafety’s Trusted eSafety Provider program, including a list of providers, is available on the eSafety website.
Winter 2022 9
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Education
It’s 365 days of play WINTER is upon us. The stress of entertaining children can seem overwhelming when sending them outdoors is not an option. Geelong mum Erica Carew says she will not let us return to the lockdown lives we lead in 2020 by turning ourselves inside out trying to find ways to entertain the newborn, the toddler and the primary school student at the same time. Treasure hunts ■ 6 months - Have baby on their tummy or sitting up and place some items close by them. Cover these items with a cloth and help baby to discover what is hiding underneath. ■ 12 months - Place larger and well loved items in easy to see places around the house. Maybe it’s a teddy sitting on a chair at the table, in their bed or in the bath and ask your little one to help you find them. ■ 2 years - Now that your little one is on the move, have them search for well loved and recognised items. Draw or show them pictures of the items you have hidden or items they might find around the house. Obstacle courses The main thing you have to think of is How can my child move using these obstacles? Over, under, around and past. The next question is - How will they move? Jump, skip, hop, crawl and run In which direction? Forwards, backwards, in a circle or a straight line. ■ 6 months - Carry baby over, under and around obstacles in your house. Holding them in your arms like they are an aeroplane is another great way for baby to participate in this style of activity and is also great for their neck strength. ■ 12 months - Set up an obstacle course that provides opportunities for them to challenge their bodies abilities and to practise new skills. Have them climb over pillow mountains, crawl under chairs and tables and walk while holding onto tables. ■ 2 years- Set up the course around the house using everyday household
items. Crawl under the table, climb over the bed, skip around the laundry basket. Trial it first by showing them how to move around each obstacle. ■ 6 years- Set up an obstacle course as above however this time you can also introduce more language around how they can move through the course. Jump over the pillows like a kangaroo, do the entire course backwards, time how quick each person can make it through the obstacle course and even encourage them to discover new ways of moving around the same objects in your house. They could pretend the floor is lava and they have to get from point A to point B without falling in. *Painting* ■ 6 months- Slide a piece of paper inside a zip lock bag, add a few drops of paint on to the paper and close the bag. Tape this bag to the floor or high chair and baby can finger paint without the mess. ■ 12 months- FInger painting time. Tape a piece of paper to the bottom of a plastic tub and add a few drops of different coloured paint. Now they can finger paint and mix up colours without the risk of the paint sliding off the edge of the paper. ■ 2 years- Find different objects that can be used as paint brushes. Forks, foil, cotton wool balls, sticks and bubble wrap all make some really interesting patterns. A great way of using these items is to attach a peg to them and use the peg as the ‘paint brush handle’ ■ 6 years- Recycling and painting into one. Pick a box out of the recycling bin and be inspired. Use some paint, stickers, pom poms and pipe cleaners and turn the simple box into an amazing creation. Is it a castle? Is it a robot? Is it a race car? Your imagination is your only limit! Many more simple and easy play ideas like these can be found in her book 365 Ways to Play and over on her instagram page @ chroniclesofplay.
Picture: Arm Lee Carlon Photography @yleecarlonphotography
Caring and committed AT Tintern Grammar we foster strong character in young women and men, enabling them to strive with confidence and aspire to create a better world. Tintern allows students to strive with confidence.
Selecting a school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make as a family and I understand that a great deal of time, energy and research goes into making this critical decision. Together at Tintern, we are committed to providing innovative learning and teaching programs that deliver personal academic excellence for each student, along with learning experiences to help them become responsible global citizens. We utilise our world-leading Parallel Learning Model to support the growth of our students through a crafted combination of single-gender and co-educational classroom experiences.
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Our school community is led by the culture of all those within it, particularly our dedicated, passionate and excellent teachers, who foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and synergy, by delivering engaging and challenging curricular and co-curricular programs. I believe that great schools are made up of committed communities who work together to achieve the best possible outcomes for their students and I can assure you that Tintern is committed to continuing its legacy as a caring, vibrant and connected community. At Tintern your child will enjoy the endless possibilities on offer, in an environment where they can strive with confidence, and I look forward to sharing the Tintern journey with you and your family. Bradley Fry, Principal Winter 2022 11
Education
Find the therapy for you BUILDING Better Brains specialises in providing a range of strengths-based creative therapeutic support services for children and families.
Building Better Brains’ services include:
Therapeutic approaches include: ■ Play therapy;
■ Family counselling;
■ Autplay;
■ Workshops and training for schools,
■ Attachment therapy; ■ Interplay therapy; ■ Creative arts therapy; ■ Lego and sandtray therapy;
■ One-to-one therapy sessions for children, teens, and adults;
■ Therapeutic group sessions; parents, and mental health professionals; ■ Online courses; and
■ ACT, CBT, and SBT;
■ Adult trauma counselling.
■ You Rock therapy;
■ NDIS and private health funds are
■ Virtual reality;
accepted.
■ Filial therapy;
Call 0402 740 789, email
■ Mindfulness and kids yoga; and
buildingbetterbrainsaustralia@gmail.
■ Animal-assisted play.
com or visit www.buildingbetterbrains. com.au.
Building Better Brains CEO and manager Sian Chambers-Vallance and co-owner Tony Vallance.
Building Better Brains TOGETHER WE CAN We specialise in providing a range of strengths-based creative therapeutic support services for children and families.
Therapeutic Approaches Play Therapy, Autplay®, Attachment Therapy, Interplay Therapy Creative Arts Therapy, Lego and Sandtray Therapy ACT, CBT, and SBT You Rock Therapy Virtual Reality Filial Therapy Mindfulness and Kids Yoga Animal-Assisted Play Therapy
NDIS and private health funds accepted
0402 740 789
Our Services One-to-one therapy sessions for children, teens, and adults Family counselling Therapeutic group sessions Workshops and training for schools, parents, and mental health professionals Online courses Adult trauma counselling
buildingbetterbrainsaustralia@gmail.com www.buildingbetterbrains.com.au 12546573-JC25-22
12 Winter 2022
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Education
Steiner education primarily focuses on teaching children how to think, not what to think.
An education for the future WITH schools around the world having to re-invent the way in which they teach their students, it is never more relevant to ask whether our educational approach adequately prepares children for the uncertainties of the modern world. Research shows that a dramatically different future for young people will be required to live a viable and sustainable life, with an increasing shift towards personal growth, development and learning becoming a lifetime commitment. Education focused solely on skills and knowledge will no longer sufficiently prepare young people to keep pace
with the demands of a rapidly changing world. Steiner education is based on a developmental and pedagogical understanding of children that builds the capacities and qualities needed for the future. Working out of a developmentallybased approach means that the methodology shifts as the children grow and progress through their schooling. Simply put, the approach is to steadily shift the locus of self management from outside of the child to within.
In kindergarten, the children are held by the loving authority of their teachers, who consciously model appropriate social interactions and behaviour. Later, the students begin to experience more clearly stated rules and carefully chosen stories arising out of the cultural epochs that guide them. In their early teens, through their studies in history and of the biographies of people who impacted the world by their actions, the students learn that there are consequences of the choices they make.
In the high school, our students are supported to become consciously responsible for their own world view and actions, in both real and virtual environments. Steiner education primarily focuses on teaching children how to think, not what to think. Although this distinction is subtle, we can see the results reflected in the well-rounded, confident young adults that graduate from Steiner schools each year. For more information, contact office@lyss.vic.edu.au.
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www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Winter 2022 13
Education
One of Melbourne’s best FOR 26 years, Choklits Child Care Centre director Sue Brewer has dedicated her working life to the families and children of our local community. Recently she was recognised for her efforts by the public, being voted Melbourne’s Best Child Care Worker.
St Brigid’s students are immersed in a rich specialised program of the arts, physical education, STEM and Indonesian.
Modern faith SET in the heart of Healesville, St Brigid’s Primary School is a warm and welcoming community, enriched by the values of the Catholic faith. Our school provides a contemporary and comprehensive curriculum which immerses students in learning about themselves and the world around them. Learning at St Brigid’s is student centred and personalised, embracing the diversity of each individual student. Our learning spaces are modern and flexible, offering dynamic experiences. Literacy and numeracy are central to our curriculum and equip students with lifelong skills, as well as fostering in them a love of learning.
We celebrate faith through daily prayer and inclusive learning activities. St Brigid’s students are immersed in a rich specialised program of the arts, physical education, STEM and Indonesian. Students are encouraged to use Indonesian throughout all facets of school life. Student wellbeing is seen as a core component to our curriculum, with developing students’ personal and interpersonal skills a primary focus. St Brigid’s prides itself on its values and encourages students, staff and families to support each other as members of our school community.
“If you had told me when my daughter, Megan, asked me to help out at Choklits to cover a shift, that I’d still be here almost three decades later - I’d have laughed, but that’s exactly how it has worked out,” Sue explains.
“We have a fantastic team at Choklits who care deeply for our children, help them develop and set them up for success,” Jade said. “Sue is a great leader.” One of the ways Sue and the team measure their success is when they reunite with children who graduate from the Choklits kindergarten program - especially when they return and enrol their own children, which has happened quite a few times in her time at Choklits. You can learn more about Sue and Choklits at choklits.com.au.
Sharing more, Sue said “I’ve seen hundreds of children come to Choklits as babies and leave eager to learn and ready to start school. “It’s definitely one of my favourite parts of working with children, seeing who they decide to become.” Choklits has grown and now has multiple centres in Melbourne’s east. Choklits owner Jade Ingleby admits it wouldn’t have been possible without
Sue Brewer and daughter Megan.
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At St Brigid’s, our Catholic faith
permeates all that we do.
Sue’s warmth and infectious smile are well known throughout the community, but it was a career that began by chance.
Sue’s commitment and dedication.
choklits.com.au
"We have been part of the wonderful Choklits family for over 2 years. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. Welcoming, friendly, caring, my two kids love going and have thrived" - Niamh (parent), Croydon.
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14 Winter 2022
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Proud to be local
Education
ENTERING the grounds of St Mary’s Primary School in Mount Evelyn, is like an ‘Escape to the Country’!
Roastin’ support
Not only do you experience familiar and warm gestures of welcome but a sense of oneness with nature; the expansive natural bush, abundant bird life and the occasional kangaroo and resident echidna add to the ‘family feel’ of this special community.
The petting zoo was a popular element.
THE hills were alive with the smell of roasting chestnuts on Sunday 1 May, as the annual Chestnut Festival filled Kalorama Memorial Reserve. More than 5000 people attended the festival, raising more than $25,000 for the Mount Dandenong Preschool and Mount Dandenong Primary School, with the final tally still to be determined. This fun family community event, run by a group of volunteer parents, carers and educators, featured gourmet food, chai tea, coffee and mulled wine, plus a diverse range of stalls showcasing local artisan makers, creators, growers and purveyors. Chestnuts of course featured heavily, with about 1000 kilograms of chestnuts being sold on the day. Each chestnut was hand-picked by preschool and primary school families in the lead up to the festival. Chestnuts were roasted, toasted, sold fresh, baked in brownies, cooked in dosas, and infused in beer…this humble nut really is celebrated at the Kalorama Chestnut Festival!
Fabulous entertainment, proudly funded by Yarra Ranges Council, kept the crowds moving, with a Zumba class, dance showcase, and live music, plus a roving circus performer.
St Mary’s Primary is committed to providing a holistic education which holds the school motto of ‘Love Above All’ at the center of everything we do. Our school recently underwent a stringent external review process. A sample of the validations that came out of this review include:
The kids’ face-painting and the petting farm were clear highlights, as were the pony rides.
The ‘high level of parent satisfaction provide indications of a high-quality educational environment’.
Local artist Shlomit carved a wandering wombat out of a piece of wood live at the festival.
With ‘Student wellbeing has a high priority at St Mary’s…the school has an excellent reputation in the wider community for the quality of its safety, care and focus on the individual’.
The wombat and a stunning carved kookaburra bench were donated by Shlomit and Rescue Logs and were auctioned off, raising more than $2500. A hills institution for more than 30 years, the Kalorama Chestnut Festival takes place on the first Sunday of May each year at Kalorama Memorial Reserve. So save the date, Sunday 7 May 2023…it’s a great day out in the Dandenongs. For more information on the Kalorama Chestnut Festival, follow the page on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.chestnutfestival.org.au.
Your Kinder of Choice
St Mary’s is a ‘cohesive and dedicated learning community’. At St Mary’s, both single stream and composite classes provide a rich and expansive program, covering the Victorian curriculum as well as providing many extracurricular opportunities.
St Mary’s Primary is committed to providing a holistic education.
wide initiative is having pleasing and positive impact on student success. Maths at St Mary’s is highly differentiated with lessons designed to engage, enable and extend the thinking of all students. St Mary’s is devoted to the connection between the performing arts and wellbeing. Dance, drama, choir, media, guitar, recorder and STOMP, are taught as part of the regular curriculum by staff who are both class teachers and arts practitioners. Showcases, performance and productions are highlights of each year.
Learning and teaching at St Mary’s is data informed and teaching practices reflect current research and are evidence based.
Wellbeing is addressed using the PEEC program which comes out of Monash University; meditation is also taught and practiced.
Literacy is taught using a synthetic approach and the recent inclusion of the science of reading as a school-
Our pastoral care team is also available to provide support and counselling.
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Mt Evelyn St Mary’s embraces the whole child, parents and community. We are a family.
Belgrave - Chirnside Park Colchester Park - Coldstream - Fernhill Hansen Park - Joy Ave - Lancaster Launching Place - Millgrove - Montrose MECEC - Mt Dandenong Mt Evelyn Memorial - Sarah Court Sassafras - Upwey - Upwey Sth - Wandin Warburton - Woori Yallock
Community connection & compassion Individualised curriculum support Dynamic learning environments Faith centered
Enrolments for 2023 now open! For enrolment enquiries please contact us (03) 9736 2219 or via email
YRKI
admissions@smmountevelyn.catholic.edu.au
Bookings are essential for school tours!
Yarra Ranges Kindergartens Inc. 9726 0439 www.yrkinders.com
Love Above All
Vision, values, relationships Pastoral care and wellbeing
Angela Glennie Principal www.smmountevelyn.catholic.edu.au 12547320-SG25-22
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
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Winter 2022 15
It’s Your Life
Keeping siblings together in care
Burrinja Circus Festival rolls in CIRCUS workshops, live performances and a whole carnival day - Ruccis packs it all in for the Burrinja Circus Festival. Ruccis Circus is turning Burrinja into a big top with its eighth annual Circus Festival. After two years of Covid-related cancellations, they’re back these winter school holidays with six days full of circus fun.
Climb high in an aerial class, flip and roll in tumbling, find your balance on the tightrope or try it all in circus mix. With classes for toddlers, kids, teens and adults, there’s something for everyone!
MELBOURNE residents Michelle and Stephen Duke, along with their three children, have been providing foster care to local children from the region for about six years. In March 2019, the family of five welcomed three siblings needing care into their home. “We thought that if we can keep these kids together, they’re going to feel better about themselves, who they are and where they come from,” Michelle said.
On Tuesday 28 June it’s time for a night of lavish entertainment with the Ruccis cabaret Opulence: Eleganza.
Learn new skills, be amazed by show-stopping performances and get involved with interactive circus experiences.
After their stellar debut performance of Opulence in Croydon Park, Ruccis coaches, performance students and new special guests are bringing even more sparkle to this 1920s-themed circus cabaret.
Kicking off with their annual student production on the weekend, Ruccis will then host the Winter Circus Carnival on Sunday 26 June.
Hosted by the sensational cabaret queen Tash York, the audience is invited to don their top hats and feather boas, with prizes for best dressed on the night.
This is a free, family-friendly event and something new for the Burrinja Circus Festival.
So pack everyone into your clown car and cartwheel into the Hills for fabulous circus fun these holidays.
Enjoy a day of drop-in circus workshops, face-painting, obstacle courses, live performances, games and crafts and so much more.
The Burrinja Circus Festival run from Saturday 25 June to Thursday 30 June, and is presented by Ruccis with support from Yarra Ranges Council.
Then run away to the circus with holiday workshops.
Book into shows and workshops at burrinja.org.au.
“Life is definitely busy with three extra children at home – but in the moments when you see the children interact with each other, and with our children, it’s all worth it.” According to Bronwyn Kellett, foster care recruitment specialist at Anglicare Victoria, there aren’t enough foster carers in Melbourne’s east who are willing to take on sibling groups. Sadly, this often means children going into care are separated from their brothers and sisters, as carers who are open to taking multiple children aren’t always available. “We don’t want to separate these kids, we want to keep them together if possible,” Bronwyn said. “We know that it helps them settle more quickly in a foster placement
and makes them happier overall. “I think there’s a misconception that you have to have a large family home in order to foster siblings – you don’t. “What you do need is to be able to provide a safe, supportive and loving home, and a commitment to the wellbeing of the children you’re caring for.” Michelle said her own children have really grown as a result of being foster carers, having developed a sense of love and understanding for people who might not have been as fortunate as they are. “When the children are laughing and playing and the stress of their situation isn’t present, that’s what makes our hearts feel full, and that what we’re doing is worthwhile,” she said. Anglicare Victoria’s foster carers receive 24-hour on-call support, ongoing training and are reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses related to care. If you are interested in becoming a foster carer with Anglicare Victoria, call 1300 889 335 or visit anglicarevic.org.au/fostering.
MOVEMENT IS THE KEY TO LEARNING Move Learn Shine
Michelle and Stephen Duke.
STOP PRESS - ‘EXCITING NEWS’ After 38 years, Marion is about to Retire. For GymbaROO at Mooroolbark to continue to flourish, a New Leader for our Professional Team is required. • Do you seek an Interesting Challenge ? • Are you Enthusiastic, Dedicated & Energetic ? • Is your Passion with Early Childhood Development ? • Do you have a Tertiary Qualification ?
Just follow GymbaROO’s Proven Programs, of • Nurturing the Natural Stages of Development. • Operate within School hours of School Terms. • Substantial data base of previous & current clients. • Two sets of Equipment enables expansion, PLUS - option to include the ‘Remarkable Resources.’ Enquiries: Email - mooroolbark@gymbaroo.com.au 04 555 066 14 Marion Stott OAM
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Nurture the natural stages of neurological development Explore movement on our specially designed equipment Teach families about the importance of each stage of development Develop through exercise, dance and music
Celebrating our 38th year in the Yarra Ranges SESSIONS
Baby, Toddler & School Readiness Classes
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MOOROOLBARK GYMBAROO Mooroolbark Community Centre Babies: 6 weeks - 12 months 125 Brice Ave, Mooroolbark VIC 3138 Toddlers: 1 - 2 & 2 - 3 years mooroolbark@gymbaroo.com.au 0455 506 614 Pre School: 3 - 4 years School readiness: 4 - 5 years www.gymbaroo.com.au
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Activities
Get creative at Robert Gordon ANYONE can get creative at Robert Gordon, with workshops for all ages. If you’ve never worked with ceramics before you needn’t worry. Friendly staff are on-hand to show you how. Robert Gordon offers workshops in wheel throwing, hand building and painting your own pottery. The paint your own pottery workshop is popular with families. All you have to do is choose your pot, decorate with paint and collect your masterpiece 14 days later. If you’re after something more extensive, you should check out Robert Gordon’s six-week pottery course. The course covers hand building, wheel throwing, moulding, sculpture and painting in a friendly atmosphere. The workshops take place in a new studio space at Robert Gordon Pottery factory outlet. Located in the heart of Pakenham, the outlet is a great place to visit with the family.
Online bookings for the paint your own pottery and workshops are essential. Call 5941 3302 or visit www. robertgordonaustralia.com.
Robert Gordon is a great place to visit with the family.
12508748-CG38-21
They have a large selection of homewares, baskets and textiles. There’s also the Nancy Eatery, which serves up relaxed, homestyle meals with coffee.
Robert Gordon is located at 114 Mulcahy Road, Pakenham and is open seven days, 9am to 5pm.
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Winter 2022 17
It’s Your Life
The juggle is real Ashley with her daughter.
By Casey Neill
Ashley also counted herself lucky to be “in this generation of women who have access to tech and devices that can help monitor my blood sugars more closely”.
FEARS and concerns are often front of mind during pregnancy. For most, diabetes doesn’t need to be one of them, but it topped the list for Cranbourne mum Ashley Ng.
During pregnancy, she was adjusting to physical and hormonal changes while also managing her food intake.
“We tried as much as we could to plan things ahead so we wouldn’t have any unexpected surprises,” the type one diabetic said.
“Food is the main contributor to fluctuating blood sugars - it was always at the forefront of my mind,” Ashley said.
“It was one of my biggest worries: how was diabetes going to play out.”
“At the start it was actually quite nice. In the first trimester when everything’s growing and developing, that’s when we often get low blood sugars.
Everyone labelled her daughter, who was 15 months old when we spoke in March, a ‘lockdown baby’. “But it was planned, in that we’d got married, got a house, and the next logical step was to have kids,” she said. “I knew my biological clock was ticking, especially with a chronic condition like diabetes.”
She climbed back into bed and lay awake for the next two hours, before getting up to double check those two blue lines had really appeared. “That’s when I woke my husband up,” she said. “It’s such a mixed bag of emotions.” Ashley’s diabetes is atypical, so no one could tell her how pregnancy was going to affect the condition or vice versa. But she had the support of a health care team, including a referral to a specialist. “Being an automatic high-risk 18 Winter 2022
pregnancy sounds daunting, but it was comforting that extra things were put in place to make sure things were going well,” she said. “It was a really good safety net for me. “My first pregnancy was actually really chilled because we were in lockdown most of the time.
“A part of me is still really nervous. That is probably the biggest thing I’m nervous about,” she said. Juggling work has also been a challenge, especially when Covid restrictions closed childcare centres.
“I think post-pregnancy was probably where I struggled most.
“You’re expected to work like you don’t have a kid.
Fellow mums with diabetes told Ashley to have snacks on hand and to always sit somewhere low while feeding in case she passed out.Her mum made her a caddy packed with snacks, wipes and nappies to carry around the house.
She’d woken at 4am to use the toilet, so decided to take a test.
Ashley’s second daughter is due in June. She’ll speak to a midwife for advice on preparing for a smoother breastfeeding journey.
“I was keen to go back to work, but I really struggled in terms of trying to balance it all,” she said.
“You can see your blood sugars plummeting as you’re breastfeeding.”
“It wasn’t a surprise, but it was also a surprise and an ‘oh crap’ moment - this is actually happening,” she laughed.
“I chose one day when I was in an OK mood and pushed through it. Something just clicked for both of us, and we just got it.”
“I could think ‘I’m going to have that ice cream’ and I wouldn’t have to worry so much.
“When you’re trying to breastfeed, it sucks the energy out of you.
Ashley and her husband conceived within a couple of months.
breastfeeding could help with the clog.
Adding to the challenge, her daughter was born with a tongue tie and struggled to latch. “Breastfeeding was really painful. I wasn’t sure if I was doing something wrong,” Ashley said. “I ended up exclusively pumping for a little bit because I found it way easier.
“I was working from home. There was no pressure to go anywhere or be super busy.
“There was a lot of pressure from everyone in terms of ‘you really should be just breastfeeding off the boob rather than using a machine’.
“So I think that was a blessing in disguise.”
“I ended up getting mastitis a couple of weeks in. Even the GP said
“You have two jobs.” And both cause guilt. That built up recently when her husband had to work extra hours. “It broke me. I had to make an appointment with the GP and make a mental health care plan,” Ashley said. “The GP said ‘you need to start to let things go, understand that pre-baby you were a high achiever, you were probably a perfectionist, you did a lot of things with your life, but now priorities have changed’. “It’s about adjusting your expectations. “But I really don’t want to adjust my expectations. I want to be able to do it all. “A few friends said to me ‘being able to do everything is a myth, there’s a time and place for everything’. “Sometimes you have to pause things and come back to them.” www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
It’s Your Life
Beetroot Red Velvet Cupcakes
Beetroot is a superfood, according to Lucy.
IF you ask me, beetroots are a proper superfood for kids. They’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamins A, E, C & K, and B vitamins, all of which help kids brains to function optimally and keep their heart and blood vessels happy. If you’re child suffers from low iron – a common condition I see in kids today, especially among picky eaters – then beetroots may help them to beet it (get it?) thanks to the plant-based iron they contain too. Beetroots are an excellent source of fibre that supports healthy digestion, gut function and elimination. The naturally occurring nitrates in beetroots can help improve the efficiency of our energyproducing cells making them a great energy-boosting food for active kids too. Beetroots are also considered a ‘good mood food’ because they contain
in the kitchen with Lucy Stewart compounds that help to calm and relax the mind and contribute to a sense of well-being and happiness. Let’s not forget about the beauty of beetroots ruby red hue either that make for a wonderful sensory experience for kids. When veggies look this good, there’s no need to hide them and beetroot’s earthy sweetness works perfectly with a hint of chocolate in these cupcakes. Getting kids involved in the kitchen is fun for all.
Ingredients: Cupcakes: ■ 2 medium beetroots, washed, peeled and grated
Topping: ■ 2 cups thick Greek or coconut yoghurt ■ Zest of 1 lemon
■ 1 cup almond meal
■ 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup
■ ½ cup brown rice flour
Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 180’C and line 6 muffin pans with muffin cases or use a silicone muffin pan.
■ 1/3 cup cacao powder ■ 1/3 cup pure maple syrup ■ ¼ cup olive oil ■ 2 free-range eggs ■ 1 tsp baking powder ■ 1 tsp vanilla extract ■ ½ tsp cinnamon ■ Pinch of sea salt
Pictures: Studio 74 Photography
2. Add all ingredients to a highpowered blender and process until you have a smooth batter. 3. Divide the mixture evenly between muffin cases and cook for 40-minutes. 4. To make the topping, mix all ingredients together until combined and spread over the top of your cooled cupcakes. Beetroots are an excellent source of fibre.
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Winter 2022 19
Books
Turning the tables in the morning By Casey Neill
special moments in the day, even during challenging times.”
WAKING up her ‘reluctant riser’ daughter every morning inspired author Sharon Giltrow to pen a humorous and heartfelt picture book.
She hopes both parents and children will see themselves in the book’s pages.
She said Get Ready, Mama! also came from her personal experience as a teacher. “I see parents arriving at school a little frazzled. I can see that they have had a challenging morning,” Sharon said. “I wanted to write a sympathetic story for them. “We are not alone in trying to get reluctant risers up, ready for the day and at school on time. “My favourite line in the book ‘you’re never too late for cuddles’ - will remind parents to take time for those
“Children will think it is funny seeing a parent playing the role of a child and the child playing the role of a parent,” she said. “As a parent I wish someone would help me get ready for the day.” Sharon said the book was also filled with heart, thanks to the child and parent bond portrayed through Arielle Li’s illustrations. “The book also offers a practical tip - The ‘Get Your Mama Ready Pack’,” she said. “This is a pack that could be kept in the car for those times when a child hasn’t brushed their hair or teeth. She said the book would also help
Author Sharon Giltrow.
children to develop empathy. “Children can literally see a child who has swapped places with a parent,” she said. “Throughout the story there are great opportunities to discuss how the characters are feeling. “More importantly how the reader would feel if they were trying to get their mama ready for the day.”
Get Ready, Mama! followed Sharon’s debut picture book Bedtime, Daddy. “I have two more picture books coming out this year and next year,” she said. “One is about taking a grandma shopping and the other is about taking a grandpa to the beach. “So, once these books are released my ‘how to’ picture book family will be complete.”
Children’s books...
WHAT TO SAY WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY From the award-winning author of All the Ways to Be Smart, comes a warm and whimsical guide to negotiating new experiences and big emotions with empathy, kindness and words from the heart. I’m not brave enough today. Maybe next time. You’re hurting my feelings right now. Want to join in? A warm and whimsical guide to negotiating life’s little moments and big emotions with empathy, kindness and words from the heart. From award-winning and much-loved author Davina Bell and exciting new illustrator, Hilary Jean Tapper. $21.99 Hachette Australia
Bluey: Perfect Based on the hit ABC KIDS TV show! It’s Father’s Day! As Bluey and Bingo make cards for Dad, will Bluey learn that sometimes perfect doesn’t have to be . . . perfect? A gorgeous hardback book with a special wipe-clean card for drawing. This will make the perfect Father’s Day gift. Bluey is an award-winning preschool show about Bluey, a blue heeler pup, and her family. Airing on ABC KIDS, the show has amassed legions of dedicated fans and hugely popular ranges of books, toys, clothes, games and more. $16.99 Penguin
Willa and Woof 1: Mimi is Missing Adventure, imagination and loads of fun. From the bestselling author of Alice-Miranda comes this humorous and heartfelt series about eight-year-old Willa and her best four-legged friend, Woof! Willa’s in trouble. Mimi – the famous racing pigeon owned by Frank, her neighbour and best old-aged friend – is missing. And Willa is pretty sure she’s the one who left the cage door open . . . She’ll need her most creative ideas (along with the help of Tae, her best same-age friend, and her trusty sidekick Woof, the albino Irish Wolfhound) to track Mimi down before Frank finds out! Can Willa find Mimi before it’s too late?
Cop and Robber
L PLATERS
A new nailbiter from the bestselling author of Two Wolves.
A must-read guide for parents of teenage girls that explores what our girls need us to know in order to support them through the unprecedented pressures of growing up in today’s world.
If your mum was a cop and your dad was a crim who needed your help to commit a crime, would you do it to save him? At what cost? Nash Hall’s dad is a criminal who just can’t seem to go straight. He wants Nash to help him commit a robbery. A big one. The trouble is, Nash’s mum is a cop. And the robbery is at Nash’s school. But Dad owes a lot of money to some very dangerous people and if Nash doesn’t help him do the job, it could cost both their lives. From the bestselling author of Two Wolves, The Fall and Detention. $16.99 Penguin
To support our girls, we need to understand the pressures this generation is under by listening to what worries them and what they need – and journalist and social commentator Madonna King has done just that. Having consulted 1000 young women, along with parents, senior educators and health care professionals in her research for this book, L Platers delivers the answers we need as parents to help our girls on the road to adulthood. $16.99 Hachette Australia
$12.99 Penguin 20 Winter 2022
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Health
Nitty gritty of the titty By Casey Neill
appear during the teen years that need to be addressed,” she said.
“I THINK it’s helpful for all young people to know about boobs, whether they own a pair or not!”
“And boys going through puberty often grow boobs, too!
So Dr Melissa Kang partnered with Yumi Stynes to pen Welcome to Your Boobs.
“This is something I’ve seen plenty of, but is not talked about much. “It causes no end of distress for some young men.”
It’s the third instalment in the ‘Welcome to’ series from the awardwinning duo, following Welcome to Consent and Welcome to Your Period.
She said understanding was growing about the distress puberty could cause for trans and gender diverse teens, and this was also covered in the book.
Dr Kang responded to hundreds of boob-related questions from teens as the Dolly Doctor for more than 23 years, and from patients in her clinical work.
Dr Kang hoped the book would alleviate some of the anxiety she’d seen over the years about breast growth and development.
“Breasts have so much symbolic meaning in our culture - about gender, sex appeal, attractiveness - which can create a lot of layers of anxiety or misunderstanding,” she said.
“Breasts are the first sign of puberty in girls and can first appear as young as 8,” she said.
“They also appear out of nowhere when an adolescent goes through puberty - and that change in one’s body can be enough to generate concerns.”
Doctor Melissa Kang.
“So this book is aimed at those early adolescents - somewhere between 8 and 10 - right through to a teen who has finished all their growing.”
“So there can be worries about lumps, tenderness, discharge etcetera that
There’s also practical information about bras, and discussions about boobs
as symbols around femininity and sex appeal. Dr Kang hoped parents would also find the book useful. “It can help them have conversations with their teens but might also address myths and misunderstandings parents have, too,” she said.
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Dr Kang said breasts also received public attention due to the prevalence of breast cancer.
The book covers the biology of breast development and answers common questions about size, shape, nipples, nipple hair, stretchmarks, tenderness, lumps and more.
The book answers many common questions.
EAT. CRE AT E . SHOP.
Become a Foster Carer Learn more at a Free Online Information Session. Register Now.
114 Mulcahy Road
CONTACT I 03 5941 3302
Pakenham VIC 3810
robertgordonaustralia.com
Enrolments Open for 2023 and Beyond
Call 1300 889 335 or visit www.anglicarevic.org.au/fostering
Call 9726 0439 or enrol@yrkinders.com.au www.yrkinders.com 12552469-DL25-22
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Building Better Brains TOGETHER WE CAN
www.buildingbetterbrains.com.au NDIS and private health funds welcome 12510415-NG38-21
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0402 740 789 buildingbetterbrainsaustralia@gmail.com
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Therapeutic support services and training for kids, parents, schools, and mental health professionals
Winter 2022 21
Kids Calendar
What's on this Winter UNTIL 12 JUNE TOORAK VILLAGE SCULPTURE EXHIBITION Toorak Village links the arts with business to exhibit contemporary sculptural works in the shop windows and on the sidewalks of Toorak Road. Visit www.toorakvillage.com.au/ sculpture for more information.
23 JUNE - 10 JULY WINTER GLOW Adventure Park Geelong will host a glowing winter wonderland of snow, lights, fire and ice these school holidays. Entry is free for people under 90cm tall, $29.50 for 90cm to 120cm, and $34.50 for over 120cm. Visit www.adventurepark.com.au.
FIREFLY NIGHT MARKET This fusion of street food, artisan stalls, cultural activities and live performances will run from 4pm to 9pm at Penrose Park, Tarneit. There is fun for the whole family with roving performers, interactive art and more. Visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au for more information.
28 & 30 JUNE, 5 & 7 JULY TRASH PUPPETS These free puppet making workshops run from noon to 2.30pm at The Mezz in Prahran. They empower children to get creative using clean recycled and reused materials. They’re recommended for ages 6 to 12 years. Find more at www.stonnington.vic.gov.au.
5 JUNE COMMUNITY PLANTING DAY Help Melbourne Water and NatureWest to revegetate the reserve next to Skeleton Creek at Hoppers Crossing.
4 JULY
The holes will be dug, the plants will be ready from 9.45am to noon. Wear sturdy shoes and gardening gloves.
Family friendly group The Kazoos brings its dress-up fun to the Knox Community Arts Centre from 11am.
Register via www.wyndham.vic.gov. au/greenlivingseries
Musical comedy Dress Up Box explores character, gender-identity and role play. Children are invited to the stage to select items out of the box. What they choose directs where the show goes next!
5, 12, 19, 26 & 29 JUNE, 3 & 6 JULY MINIATURE RAILWAY This passenger-carrying miniature railway within the Portarlington Bayside Family Park grounds runs on the first and third Sundays of the month from 11am to 3pm from June to September, plus special school holiday services.
THE KAZOOS
25 JUNE
25 JUNE - 10 JULY
ASHBURTON-A-FAIR
LUNA PARK
Ashburton Community Centre will host this free market with fun for all ages from 9.30am to 2.30pm.
Winter school holiday fun at Luna Park will feature heart-pumping thrill rides, family rides, and gentle rides for the little ones. There’s something for everyone.
Visit ashburtoncc.org.au for more information.
Tickets are $16 for adults, $12 for kids and $45 for a family of four. Visit www.knox.vic.gov.au for more.
Visit lunapark.com.au for all the details.
10 JULY
BANTU AFRICAN FEST
WINTER CONCERT SERIES
Trains run at frequent intervals, takes about 10 minutes, costs $4 and is free for children aged under 2 years.
From noon to 5pm at Barwon Valley Activity Centre, Geelong, enjoy live music, drum and dancing performances, food, market stalls and kids’ entertainment.
Visit miniaturerailway.com.au for more information.
Visit www.geelongaustralia.com.au for more information.
Book at www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/891571.
Clayton Theatrette will host free kids’ show Cosmic Cats, a cover band for kids and adults alike, from 2pm to 3pm.
18 JUNE
15 JULY
AUSTRALIAN GIRLS CHOIR OPEN DAY
28-30 JUNE, 1 & 2 JULY
REGROWTH FESTIVAL
This free event in Balwyn will run from noon to 2.30pm.
PLAYABLE STREETS - REFLECTION
It runs 10am to 5pm.
Hills Creative Alliance and the Kalorama Collective will host a Regrowth festival at Kalorama Memorial Reserve, including a smoking ceremony, indigenous dances, children’s activities, and tea and cake, from noon to 8pm.
Find more at www.stonnington.vic.gov.au.
Find more at www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au.
Does your daughter love to sing, dance and perform? The choir offers fun and dynamic classes to transform a love of music into a rich educational experience. Register at ausgirlschoir.com.au.
22 Winter 2022
This interactive installation in Prahran Square features artworks from artists of all ages, as part of the Roola Boola Children’s Arts Festival.
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
Local Trades & Services UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL OF YOUR CHILD!
DRIVEWAYS
After School Tuitions NAPLAN Preparation Selective School Entrance / Scholarship Exams Specially tailored VCE coaching Group / Individual Sessions Face to Face Online Sessions Visit our centres in Ringwood and Glen Waverly. Ringwood Location: Ringwood Secondary College, 55 Bedford Rd, Ringwood VIC 3134
12554150-JC25-22
- Regraveling & Concrete - Site Cuts - Retaining Walls - Footings/Holes Augered - Horse Arenas CALL FRANK: 0419 894 596
Prep – Year 12
For more information call Seema: 0434 678 639 www.nrichlearning.com.au
WANTED
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never forget how little they are...
WASHING MACHINES
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Logbook Servicing Vehicle Inspections Brake Repairs Suspension & Steering Clutch & Transmission Engine Repairs Radiators & Cooling Systems Air Conditioning
Impressionable Kids 12554163-JW25-22
1300 885 868 www.impressionablekids.com.au
Leon 0409 637 712
12554088-AI25-22
Need your gutters cleaned?
1300 654 253
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au
guttervac.com.au
12554009-AI25-22
* Safety Trained & Fully Insured * Wet/Dry VACUUM cleaning * Professional & Friendly Service
202202159273_1-JW10-22
3-5 Green Street, Healesville 5962 4277 E: yvservicecentre@gmail.com
Collector looking for front & top loading automatics, 40 years & older. Brands like Frigidaire, Bendix, Wilkins Servis, Inglis, Simpson & Pope Norge.
12538565-BL11-22
ROOFING PROBLEMS?
Call the team today
CONTACT STUART
0421 574 444
12473777-SG51-20
Hand & Feet Sculptures • Baby’s First Sunrise • Birth Collages Keepsake Jewellery • Bronzing • Name Frames • Gift Vouchers
12554088-AI25-22
Impressionable Kids are Australia’s leader in framed children’s memorabilia.
Call today to organise a FREE no-obligation quote.
12554172-NG25-22
Field-Shop PL Specialising In:
ROOFING BLITZ
0401 235 164 30 Years Experience
www.transformedtreeservices.com.au
12511841-HC38-21
Winter 2022 23
Achievement starts with care.
12551706-JC25-22
FOR CARE, TURN TO TINTERN. VISIT TINTERN.VIC.EDU.AU TO ENQUIRE TODAY! 24 Winter 2022
www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au