Kids Voice October 2014

FR

OC T OB E R

S T R O NG R O LE MO D EL FOR G IRL S T R I C K O R TR E A T

-

-

EE

2 014

H OM EL ESSNE SS FO R Y O U TH

R O Y AL G EEL ON G Y ACH T CL UB

-

BL U E BIRD FO U NDA TIO N

Y O U R F R E E PA R E N T I N G M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E G E E L O N G R E G I O N

PAGE 2

- OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 3

WELCO M E Finally! The weather is warming up, football fever has reached its peak and we’re head into term four filled with beach days, cricket and BBQ’s on the weekends.

Being a child at this time of year certainly has its perks, riding bikes around the block, heading to the beach with friends and eating numerous icy poles to keep cool. It’s also a time where a lot of families are planning some time off and heading away for an annual holiday at the end of the year, from a few hours drive to a quick flight up north to an even sunnier state. You’ll either spend the journey threatening to ‘turn this car around right now and go home!’, or all enjoying a family sing along to some classics – or depending on the length of the journey, maybe a bit of both!

F ROM T H E T EA M Kids Voice

KV TEAM

BUSINESS MANAGER Michele Mitten EDITORIAL The A Team SALES & MARKETING Carly Boyce

GRAPHICS & LAYOUT ARTIST Elise Blach STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Alan Barber COVER MODEL Sienna Kestles

PO Box 54, Ocean Grove Victoria, 3226 Phone: 03 5255 3233 Fax: 03 5255 3255 FIND US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/Kids Voice Geelong www.kidsvoice.com.au

No part of this magazine, including the advertisements, may be reproduced without permission of the editor.

The opinions expressed within Kids’ Voice magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher, but those of individual writers.

PAGE 4

- OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 5

FLUENCY & STUTTERING

CONTENTS 8

Carly’s Blog

9

Marine Discovery Centre

10

Strong Female Role Models

12

Lara Primary School

15

Tiny Hearts Paediatric First Aid

17

Salvos Make The Connection

20

Mt Duneed Primary School celebrates Book Week

21

Royal Geelong Yacht Club

8

24

17

27

22

30

24

Music and Arts

THIS ISSUE’S COVER GIRL...

27

Crafts and Cooking

NAME, AGE? Sienna Kestles, 5 years old

28

Reviews

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD? Cupcakes and fruit

30

What’s On

...AND MUCH MORE

DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES? Dancing, camping, jumping on the trampoline, bouncing my ball and doing mathletics on the computer ANY PETS? I have a chocolate lab called Wal

Fluency refers to the smoothness with which sounds, syllables, words and phrases are joined together during speech. A fluency disorder is the interruption of the smoothness of speech. It is commonly referred to as “stuttering “.

Many children go through stages of repeating words in a way that sounds like stuttering. During these episodes, of what is known as “normal disfluency”, words will be repeated only two or three times. A child will grow out of this without requiring any therapy. Stuttering, on the other hand, is often quite obvious and behaviours commonly displayed in stuttering include: •

• •

• •

•

Repeating sounds and syllables and words , such as “I I I I I can do it”; Prolonged sounds, such as “ where is my sssssister?” ; Blocking of sounds, where a child tries to say a word and nothing comes out; Broken words , such as “mon…..key”; The child becoming aware or embarrassed by their speech difficulties; Associated behaviours such as going red in the face, eye blinking or avoiding words.

Unfortunately the exact cause of stuttering is still unknown.

There are, however, some factors we can be sure of: • More males than females stutter.

• Children whose parents stutter have a greater chance of stuttering.

• Stuttering is not an emotional , psychological or intellectual disorder.

• Parents don’t cause children to stutter.

• Children do not copy stuttering – you can’t pick it up by copying someone who does stutter.

Stuttering may start gradually or suddenly. Most children who stutter will begin between two and five years old.

Stuttering can vary in severity over time, and even throughout the day. As the child grows older the chances of them ceasing to stutter without intervention decreases.

Treatment at a young age is usually quicker, simpler, easier and more successful. If your child starts stuttering, it is recommended that you approach Speech Pathology services as soon as possible. While there is a possibility

that your child may recover naturally, research shows that therapy has better outcomes for pre-schoolers than it does for older children.

As parents there are many things that you can do to promote fluent speech and therefore decrease anxiety about the speaking situation.

DO...

• Slow your own speech down to provide a calm, relaxed model of talking.

• Slow the whole child down, not just the speech. For example, if the child is very excited or upset, settle or slow down their overall behaviour first, then their speech.

• Give the child lots of relaxed, uninterrupted opportunities to talk. If your schedule is busy, try to slow down the pace at certain times during the day. When there are other children, encourage everyone to take turns in talking.

• Let the child finish their sentences even when they are having difficulty.

• Listen to what the child is saying and not how they are saying it.

• Let the child know you are interested in what they have to say.

• Be patient. Let them feel that talking and learning new words is fun.

• If the child’s speech is better when they say rhymes or when they sing, and if they enjoy doing these things, encourage them as it helps them to realise that they can speak well.

• Explain new experiences to them before they occur.

Avoid situations that are unduly frustrating, tiring or frightening to the child as these are likely to make their speech worse.

• If the child becomes aware of the repetitions in their speech, do all you can to reassure them that everyone stumbles sometimes.

• Try to face the child when speaking to them; this shows that you are listening.

• Build up the child’s confidence and self esteem by encouraging and praising the things they do well. Make

sure they have opportunities to be successful in front of other children.

DON’T...

ii

i

• Don’t label the child a stutterer.

• Don’t interrupt their speech, hurry them, finish words for them.

• Don’t say “take a deep breath”, “slow down”, “think about what you are saying”. This only focuses undue attention on the mechanical processes of speech rather than the subject matter.

• Don’t ask a child to repeat a sentence until it is fluent.

• Don’t let a child see that you are worried. A child can sense this and may become more anxious.

• Don’t keep pointing out the words that the child can’t say.

• Don’t ask the child to recite in front of groups if they do not want to.

• Try not to allow other children or adults to tease, nag or bully them about their speech.

• Don’t expect miracles to happen. They will probably improve slowly. Remember everyone stumbles sometimes when speaking.

Try to remember all the good periods a child has in speaking situations rather than remembering the bad times.

Most disfluency resolves naturally, without Speech Pathology intervention. However, it is difficult to predict who will stutter and who will grow out of it. Therefore, if you hear any disfluency ( lasting 3-6 months) , it is best to seek the advice of a Speech Pathologist.

Catherine Stewart - Paediatric Speech Pathologist Bellarine Community Health Ltd Tel: 5258 0812 Or Email: Serviceaccessofficer@Bch.org.au

PAGE 6

- OCTOBER 2014

BIRTH STORY

NAT XAVIER

& RUBY

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 7

Natalie grew up in Maryborough in Central Victoria. She lived with her mum, dad and older brother on a hobby farm, and was always outdoors in the bush or looking after animals. She always wanted to be a nurse, ever since she was little. Her Nan lived next door, and Nat visited her frequently after school. When her Nan was dying of cancer the family nursed her in her home and Nat remembers that this cemented her desire to train as a nurse.

After high school Nat attended ACU University in Ballarat and studied nursing. She supplemented her income by working as a ‘check-out chick’ at Safeway in Maryborough.

After graduating, Nat worked in Melbourne at St Vincent’s Private Hospital, before travelling overseas. Then she completed a post graduate diploma at the Royal Children’s Hospital which involved infant, child and adolescent health while she worked in the transplant and dialysis units.

Around this time Nat partnered up with Mark, who she had met just prior to travelling overseas. Nat was about to start a neonatal intensive care course at the Royal Women’s Hospital when she found out that she was pregnant.

Nat was overjoyed to find that she was expecting her first child as she has been diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome, which often leads to fertility problems.

Nat chose to have her pregnancy managed by a private obstetrician through St John of God Hospital in Geelong.

She was nauseated throughout pregnancy and was also diagnosed with gestational diabetes, which was managed by a modified diet and involved monitoring the blood sugar levels three times a day. Unfortunately towards the end of her pregnancy (at 36 weeks) Nat was diagnosed with preeclampsia, which is characterised by high blood pressure, generalised oedema and proteinuria. Nat had to stop work at this stage and rest. However when Nat was washing her car at the car wash at 37 weeks she tripped and fell flat on her pregnant belly. She needed an ambulance trip to hospital and suffered torn stomach muscles, which must have been mighty uncomfortable at the later stages of pregnancy. Her blood pressure was found to be really high and she was admitted to hospital for bed rest and fetal monitoring. The obstetrician decided that Nat’s blood pressure was so high that inducing labour would have been too risky, and she was booked for an emergency caesarean section.

Nat felt ‘disappointed’ and ‘cheated’ that she missed out on labour, but in the end was just happy to have a healthy child. She realised that she shouldn’t ‘beat herself up’ over things not going according to plan.

Xavier weighed in at 4.1 kg and was born in very good condition. Nat’s breast milk did not establish very readily,

and she had to breast feed and express and also use formula. Nat went back to work after 12 weeks, so she was a very busy woman!

Once again Nat and Mark had difficulty conceiving their second child, and were considering fertility options when she discovered that had fortunately fallen pregnant naturally. She decided on the same form of management with the private obstetrician at St John of God Hospital.

Nat unfortunately experienced regular bleeding throughout the pregnancy (ante-partum haemorrhage). At 30 weeks when there was bleeding she had to stop work and rest in hospital, then at home. The cause for the bleeding was never found. At 36 weeks Nat’s water’s broke, and she had to undergo another emergency caesarean, and the baby (Ruby who weighed 3.4kgs) was not in a safe position for a normal delivery. Nat was very unwell at this stage with very high blood pressure, which required high doses of medication to control. She had a constant headache and felt ‘terrible’. Baby Ruby was admitted to the special care nursery for treatment for a low blood sugar (even though Natalie did not have gestational diabetes with the second pregnancy). Ruby needed two hourly naso-gastric feeds to control the blood sugar level.

Looking back Nat felt so unwell and the caesarean happened so ‘quickly’ that there was no time to get nervous or apprehensive. Once again the safety of Nat and her baby were the main considerations.

Nat found breast feeding very hard work. Her milk supply was low with both babies, which meant the expressing and bottle top ups were necessary. She can see why people would just give up and use formula, but being very determined she managed to breast feed Ruby for a year in the end!

Nat thinks that the main advantage of having a private obstetrician was that she was able to stay in hospital for a longer time to recover than she would have in the public system.

Xavier is now nine years old, and Ruby is three. They are thriving and happy and healthy! Natalie still works as a nurse, but also has her own business as an Independent Mary Kaye Cosmetic Consultant. This business allows Nat more flexibility and child friendly hours compared to nursing! Also Nat gains a lot of satisfaction from helping clients to improve their self confidence. Natalie can be contacted on natalierussell.mk@gmail.com.

THANKS SO MUCH FOR SHARING

HAVING TIME FOR

YOURSELF WITHOUT GUILT!

Just imagine reading this in the ‘Situations Vacant’ section of your paper: “Seeking applicants for a job that requires long hours, being on-call 24/7, a demanding workload, limited breaks (even to go to the toilet!), constant vigilance, being highly skilled in numerous areas, and no pay”. Who would apply? You have! Parents all around the world are lining up, keen as ever, to take on this role. And that’s because the 2nd paragraph of this potential job ad would talk about all the enormous benefits that come with this position and the fact that it will likely be the most rewarding, interesting, and satisfying job of your life. But there is no denying, it involves A LOT of hard work! So what can we do so that we don’t end up being a puddle of stress and exhaustion on the floor: Take a Break!

That doesn’t mean a 2-week holiday to Thailand (although that would be nice too!), this is really about creating times in your day and week when you can take a little time-out for yourself. This will usually require a little strategic planning on your part. Maybe you can organise some child-minding so that you can get to a yoga class once a week or it may just be getting the kids lunch and in the relative peace that sometimes occurs when mouths are full of sandwiches, you can retreat for 5 minutes to the couch with a cup of tea and magazine! It is really important you build breaks, particularly little mini-breaks, into your day. Try and be flexible though, because if someone doesn’t like their sandwich, your window of opportunity might quickly close!

kids have done or said that you will remember and re-tell, not how many times you vacuumed the lounge room floor! Of course, some housework needs to be done, but when we have children (who by definition are little mess-makers!) we may need to lower our expectations on how tidy our house should be.

Let’s Play!

This is a break of another kind, this time with your kids. When you are frazzled with chores and your kids are playing up, sometimes what everyone needs to do is to stop, leave the dishes and play a game of Uno! Or whatever else your kids are into. Try and really be in the moment with your children, rather than worrying about what else needs to be done once you are finished. Re-engaging with your children even if just for a brief period, might be just what you and they need.

Pat on the back!

During your day you may not be able to take a physical time-out but try a mental one! Take a step back, acknowledge all that you are doing and managing, and give yourself some well-deserved praise and encouragement.

Taking time for yourself in whatever form you can is vital. The key message here is that anything that will allow you to de-stress or re-group during your day will not only be good for you, but will also make you a better parent! So ditch any guilt, and start scheduling this in!

DR SARAH

VALENTINE

Ignore the washing!

At your 80th birthday party, it is going to be the endearing things that your

CLINICAL

PSYCHOLOGIST

YOUR STORY NAT - JEN CARR XX

8TH NOVEMBER 2014 QUEENSCLIFF 37km START

LEOPOLD 12km DRYSDALE 20km

SHOWGROUNDS 3.5km

GEELONG WATERFRONT FINISH 12PM - 5PM

Free Entertainment at the Finish Line

To raise awareness and understanding of homelessness issues within the Barwon South Western region.

PAGE 8

- OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 9

WHAT Transition… what transition? Moving Sophie (2 years old) into a regular single bed from her cot was probably the easiest change we have made during her busy two years. The first two nights she got out of bed once and it took my partner and I 45 minutes of lying down beside her before she would fall asleep.

After these two nights, Sophie loved going to bed and didn’t require or even want us to hang around.

She would just about jump out of our arms to get into bed and snuggle down for the night at 7pm on the dot. If we were slow in getting her to bed by 7pm, she would grab her teddy, her dummy and march off to bed by herself. This went on for weeks, until now… we are finding our little girl hard to get to bed unless it is 8.30 or 9pm and she wants to go to sleep on the couch with her blankey and teddy before she goes into her own bed. I have no idea where this has come from as she has never really been one to nap on the couch much or even sit still for more than 5 minutes at a time. Is she just being clingy and wanting to spend more time with us and be around us? If this was the case, why won’t she stay in bed even if my

partner and/or I lay down with her… she still does the quick dash back to the couch to doze off. I have no idea what has changed for her and not sure if this is something which will continue to cause a bit of a fuss or whether it will just fade away in time. At times this stresses me out, switching off at 7pm and putting my feet up was a great routine and suited our whole family perfectly. But at other times, I am perfectly fine with Sophie sharing her cuddles and endless sloppy kisses with us until 9pm. My main concern is that on the weekends she has been skipping naps… I keep thinking she is going to be so grumpy tomorrow or the next day once this all adds up… but she continues to prove me wrong. If there is actually an issue in my house at the present time, aside from the bedtime kafuffle, it is getting our little monkey into the shower or bath. For some reason, Sophie is being a typical 2 year old and refuses to shower or bath without screaming her head off continuously until you let her out (if you can even initially get her in there that is).

The thing I do find strange, again… is that she has always loved to bath and shower. We have never had

issues with this; normally the issue is trying to get her out of the shower! Not the other way around. I have absolutely no idea how to try and change her attitude towards this, except the obvious little bribes and trying to talk her into ‘bathing dolly’. It Just goes to show that being a mum is full of surprises and anything can change for good or a period of time just like the click of your fingers. I suppose all we can really do is just embrace the journey, and go with the flow.

Honestly, does it matter if my two year old doesn’t want to have a shower as much as I would like her to? Does it actually matter that she wants to nap on the couch before getting in bed? Does it even matter if she misses a nap on the weekend? I don’t think any of these matter to the extent which a lot of mothers think it does. They are kids, kids push the boundaries, they get dirty and they want to stay up later along with everyone else. The phase will pass! If you think about it, I bet you we all used to skip baths and extend our own bed times and look at us now! Love a good shower and can’t get enough of` being in bed. There is hope!

Carly

F I S TH? IS THA

WHAT FISH IS THAT?

WHAT DOES A CUTTLE EAT?

Questions, questions ….. can’t answer them all? Then bring your kids to the Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre (MFDC) in Queenscliff. That’s the “funny” building on Swan Bay with the grass growing on the roof.

Ask YOUR questions of our marine education officers and discover more about the environment.

The MDFC is an educational facility to encourage people to become aware and understand the need for conservation and sustainability and to make changes in their everyday lives to protect our environment.

Holiday programs are available from little kids to secondary school kids. If you missed these last holiday programs then wait for the summer program which promises to be fun and interactive and let your kids discover many new experiences.

The summer programs will be available from December 2014. For more information visit www.depi.vic.gov.au BE A VOLUNTEER

Volunteers are essential to the success of the centre as they become important influences on attitudes of people and ultimately the state of our oceans.

Imagine that? You can make a real difference to our environment simply by volunteering your time at the

HERITAGE SERVICE

Steam Train Trips Locomotive Cab Rides 2, 5, 19 & 26 October Magic Show & Workshop 2 October Santa Train Specials 7, 14 & 21 December

01 TOBER 2 11-12 O’tCdelay get your y!

Don -line toda tickets on

4

© 2014 Gullane (Thomas) Limited © 2014 HIT Entertainment Limited

Visit website or call 5258 2069 for details, bookings and more!

www.bellarinerailway.com.au

MFDC, however it is not just your time that is important. To become a volunteer you will undergo training so that you will become knowledgeable, passionate and an effective advocate for the environment.

working volunteers help at the centre and raise money for special projects or equipment such as underwater cameras, the kids snorkelling program and our shark display.

Every-one’s contribution, big or small can make a difference. If you would like to know more about being a volunteer at the MFDC call the centre on 52583344 or email marine.discovery@dpi.vic.gov.au

A recent initiative has been The Fish Book to encourage the community to use only sustainable seafood so that we protect our environment and avoid over fishing of some of our species. For only $15 you can have over 35 recipes, all tried and true, as well as important information on sustainable species.

TOUCH A SEA STAR

Have you been to the Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre lately? Have you seen the cuttle? Touched a sea star or watched a hermit crab scuttling about? The touch tank is always popular with big kids as well as little ones.

There are many local marine species too such as flathead, wrasse, puffer fish and the elegant seahorses entwining their tails onto the seaweed. If you time it right you might even see some fish being fed…

And don’t forget to look at the fresh water fish display.

These species are found in our fresh water rivers and lakes throughout Victoria.

The yabbies are very handsome creatures - admire their big claws!

FRIENDS

The work of the centre is supported by the Friends of the Marine Discovery Centre (FOMDC) This group of hard

The book is available from bookgrove, Ocean Grove, Queenscliff Book shop, Beach Club, Queenscliff and the Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre.

The next fund raiser is the Sustainable Seafood Supper on Friday 7 November. Enjoy eating sustainable seafood and learn more about our work.

We promise a fun night so put the date in your diary. Call Anne 52582606 for more information.

If you would like to become a friend, join by filling in the form on the website www.friendsofmdc.org.au and post with your payment to the address provided.

So don’t forget, know all the answers and come along to the Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre at DEPI. 2a Bellarine Hwy, Queenscliff. 3225. Tel 5258 3344 Open Monday to Friday 10.00am – 4.00pm SEE YOU THERE …

PAGE 10 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 11

STRONG FEMALE

-

ROLE MODELS

IN A WORLD OF KARDASHIANS AND EMPTY

CELEBRITY, THE IMPORTANCE OF STRONG FEMALE CHARACTERS FOR YOUNG GIRLS

In an age of social media, the world is awash with the cult of empty celebrity. Young girls are encouraged to be selfobsessed, materialistic and egotistical. Young teens are pressured, into becoming obsessed with their look, into believing that having a boyfriend is the most important thing a girl can have and girls are sexualised at such an early age now. They’re no longer allowed to be just kids.

The internet, TV and magazines constantly send out the message that physical appearance is more important than character. That it’s better to be famous than smart.

Reality television gives socialites like Kim Kardashian and Paris Hilton the opportunity to become icons. They’re not famous for a particular talent or achievement. They’re worshipped simply because they’re famous. Is this what we want our young girls to aim for?

It has never been more important for young girls to have strong female characters in fiction. To show them what they are really capable of. Young readers are particularly impressionable. Something about a particular character you’ve loved as a child will have rubbed off on you, inspired you in some way and our teenage years is when we experience everything on a much higher emotional level. When we experience our most intense emotions. A time when we are most open to be influenced by what we read in books and see in the movies.

It’s great that a lot of popular fiction today features characters like Katniss – The Hunger Games – and Tris – Divergent (I just wish she had kept the name, Beatrice!) and Tally – Uglies. These girls live in a dystopian world of the future. They take on the roles usually assigned to male characters. They’re tough, powerful, proactive.

They fight and they even kill. I love that they are defined by their personality rather than their looks, or their relationships with the male characters.

But when I talk about “strong” female characters, I don’t mean strong in sense of physical prowess or power.

She doesn’t have wield a weapon, or engage in deathdefying feats, or be every bit as good as a male. I mean strong as in interesting, or complex, or well-written. I’m talking about characters who exhibit great resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Girls who are brave, resourceful and complex, without being ruthless killers. Whose depth of conviction is never allowed to be undermined by any romantic involvement. In narrative terms, the capacity of someone to act independently, to make their own free choices, is far more important than “strength.” It’s what determines whether a character is truly believable.

The setting for my novel Resisting the Enemy is one of recent history. A time when the whole world was at war.

The main protagonist, Valli, is a young woman who finds herself living in chaotic and dangerous times. Like all those living in German-occupied France, she has three choices. To do nothing and try to stay safe; to collaborate;

-

or to actively resist. She chooses to join the Resistance.

I was interested in exploring what might motivate a young woman to live dangerously, rather than submit to a brutal, oppressive régime. A young woman who comes from a rather privileged background, who is attractive, intelligent – why would such a person choose to live dangerously?

To risk her life every day by doing what she does. And how far would she be willing to go for her beliefs?

Above all, I wanted to show young people being put into difficult circumstances and how they become heroic. And how, when needed, we all have the potential for that in us. We must remember that inside every young girl there is a hero.

Lorraine Campbell is the Author of the new book, Resisting the Enemy (Palmer Higgs $24.95), – a YA historical fiction novel about the French Resistance. The second novel, In Mortal Danger, will be released soon.

To learn more visit lorrainecampbell.com.au

-

GEELONG

-

CHILDREN’S WEEK Children’s Week is coming up and to celebrate the City is supporting a number of fun activities this October.

National Children’s Week draws attention to our regions youngest citizens, promoting learning and play, bringing together the community and our children. It is an annual event celebrated in Australia during the fourth week in October and the initiative is designed to celebrate the unique contributions that young children make to our community. More so, it focuses community attention on the importance children have within our lives especially as they thrive, learn and grow. Childhood is the most exciting time in life. Kids appreciate the simplest of things; playing in the park, a trip to the beach or even simply going and getting an ice cream on a hot day.

Children’s Week is all about celebrating childhood and ensuring our kids are safe and get the best possible start in life. It is also a time for children to demonstrate their talents, skills and abilities. Getting involved with Children’s Week is also a great way for kids to make new friends that live in the area that they live in! This year in particular Children’s Week focuses on every child’s right to speak and be heard. Geelong is celebrating Children’s

Week with over 60 separate activities being held between Saturday 18 - Sunday 26 October with participation from schools, playgroups, kindergartens, child care, cultural groups, libraries, leisure centres and other community groups. This is a great opportunity for parents to introduce children to new activities, allowing them to develop added skills in a fun and supportive environment.

There are also plenty of activities occurring throughout the week. These include carousel rides, performing arts workshops, musical garden interactive concerts and much more. See the What’s On section of this edition of Kids Voice to see some of the activities that are being run in our area.

The City of Greater Geelong is a big supporter of Children’s Week and have organised plenty of ‘In House’ events which occur all around our region. Such ‘In House’ events include Treehouse Family Fun Day, Kindergarten Obstacle Course, Children’s Art Show and a Grade 1/2 Sleep Over. The mission and the vision that the City of Greater Geelong have for Geelong Children’s Week is to encourage, support, guide, co-ordinate and monitor the programs and activities that run and to ensure that they

are open to all children regardless of race, colour, sex, ability, religion, nationality or social origin. As a parent it can be quite easy to become busy with work and other commitments and responsibilities, so Children’s Week is a great reason and the perfect time to get your family together and enjoy a fun day out. Embrace the week for fun and learning by securing your child a spot as bookings for most events and activities are essential.

For further information about Children’s Week Geelong visit: www.geelongaustralia.com.au Bellarine Kids are proudly supporting Children’s Week and bringing the local community the Great Ocean Road Surf Tours ‘Ocean Awareness’ Session, on Tuesday October 21 at 4pm, at the Boorai Centre. This awesome session is aimed at wannabe surfers and surfers starting out, beach goers and ocean lovers. The workshop will be segmented into areas of Ocean Awareness; Surf Safety including correct equipment, being able to assess conditions; Surf Etiquette and Surf Hints and Tips. Entry is by gold coin donation, (all proceeds will go towards a beach clean-up).

PAGE 12 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 13

LARA PRIMARY SCHOOL

Describe the schools sport program: At Lara Primary School, the students participate in a one hour structured PE lesson a week. In addition to this, Grades 3-6 have an extra hour one afternoon a week, to partake in a physical movement activity from a range of different aspects. This may include dance, yoga, major/ minor sports etc. We have lunch time sports running every Tuesday, which is entirely organised by our house captains. In this less structured environment, students have the opportunity to try their hands at a number of different facets of sport including coaching, umpiring, scoring and timing. Students at Lara Primary School are involved in whole school sporting carnivals such as cross country, athletics and swimming programs. Students who are successful in these events then have the opportunity to train at the school to further their accomplishments at a district, zone, region and state level. Physical movement is highly valued at Lara Primary School and we endeavour to cater to all of our students needs and passions.

Describe the schools drama/arts/music program: Every student at Lara Primary School is provided the opportunity to participate in a multifaceted arts program that is run by a variety of passionate teachers.

Every week the students attend visual arts and performing arts lessons held in dedicated, well resourced classroom spaces. Besides focusing on developing well rounded skills across a broad range of artistic experiences, the students work towards a number of key milestones each year being the Whole School Art Show, The Geelong Show School Exhibit and the P-4 End of year Performing Arts Concert.

Additional development and enrichment programs provide students with specific talents and interests, extra

LS SCHOO US IN FOC

performance opportunities by means of the Choir, the school Rock Band ‘The Passions’, Hip-Hop dance group and Lara’s Got Talent Quest.

The program is hands-on, emphasising students making decisions about their own learning and their own behaviours.

Describe the schools ITC program: At Lara Primary School we are incredibly lucky to offer a 1:1 tablet program for our Grades 5 and 6 students.

Each student is given the opportunity to purchase from the school an ACER tablet, which comes with a variety of different apps and programs. These tablets are used every day, in every subject. Students in the upper school are also privileged to participate in a 1.5 hour ICT lesson, whereby they learn the full functionality and capabilities of their tablets. Here the students experiment in digital photography, movie making and song creation, as well as staying up to date with the latest in game making and programming. Across the remainder of the school, students have the opportunity to use technology in many different forms. From iPads to laptops, cameras to Vados, our students are encouraged to use and experiment with a number of different ICT tools to demonstrate their knowledge in content and their particular learning style.

At Serendip, students interact with Parks Victoria rangers and local community environmentalists in a hands-on learning environment. They then use Information and Communication Technologies as the vehicle to convey their understandings about the natural environment.

Numerous multimedia products produced by Lara Primary School students at Serendip Sanctuary have been recognised at local, state and national levels.

What kind of camps and outdoor education programs are offered: We are fortunate to have a classroom at Serendip Sanctuary, a 227 hectare wetland/grassy woodland Parks Victoria sanctuary that breeds native species. It is in close proximity and unique to our school offering a very special experience to all students to extend their sphere of experience beyond the classroom and school grounds.

Lara Primary School recognises the need to educate future generations to understand that the choices they make impact on the environment. The program is designed to bring about student connectedness to the environment and therefore responsibility for its future.

Students from years 3-6 participate in a camping program. Students attend camp with their class, and enjoy the challenges, learning and class bonding that exemplifies this fabulous experience. In 2014 we look forward to the following camping experiences: Grade 5/6 will visit Sovereign Hill Camp and grade 3/4 students will enjoy Camp Wyuna.

What is your school philosophy: At Lara Primary School we challenge and support each other to strive for personal best. We deliver two messages to every child – ‘you can succeed’ and ‘I will help you do that’. Our staff and families are committed to supporting each child to set goals and take pride in their achievements. We have a strong focus on student leadership, and support students to understand that great leaders bring out the best in others.

Principal: Elissa Jackson Public/Private/Independent: Public Address: 120 Flinders Avenue, Lara 3212 Phone: 03 5282 1427 Number of students: 425 Number of teachers: 25

OF

TALK

THE

TOWN LARA

Lara is a growing township situated around 58km southwest of Melbourne and 16km from Geelong.

The township of Lara came into existence in the 1850’s after the railway line between Geelong and Melbourne was built. A number of subdivisions of farmland for house lots were announced. Lara was originally named Kennedy’s Creek but was also known by several other names including Cheddar, Hovels Creek, Swindon, Lara Lake and Duck Ponds. By 1890 the population of Lara had grown to a few hundred and schools and churches were built to service the needs of the local community, although it was not until 1947 that town water was provided.

How times change. Lara now has a population of approximately 14,000 and will see massive growth in the next five to ten years with the Manzeene Village and Lara West developments coming on-line in the near future.

Lara’s industrial area, to the south of the township and bordering Corio, will be the focus of employment growth in the region in the forseeable future.

Lara has many things to offer as a community.

Service clubs are very active within the township, with

Lions, Rotary, Probus, Masons, Red Cross, CWA, RSL, Laurels, Men’s Shed, the Filipino Community Organisation and Leos providing many opportunities for involvement in community life. Sporting clubs including football, cricket, baseball, basketball, netball, soccer, tennis, swimming, little athletics, golf, bowling and two riding clubs provide many opportunities for participation in healthy activities outside the home. Two scouting groups, 1st and 2nd Lara, as well as the Lara Youth Group give focus to younger members of our community.

The local Lara Fire Brigade has many members, and will be embarking on a recruitment program in the next few months. The Lara Brigade has a proud history of supporting the community in times of need. Many people will remember Lara for the bushfires of January 1969 that killed 17 people and destroyed homes, cars, and community facilities including a church and a school.

After those fires, Lara rebuilt and now boasts two state primary schools, a Catholic primary school, Lara Secondary College, three kindergartens, five churches, two private childcare facilities, a community childcare service and school holiday program.

Lara Community Centre operates the community childcare program and school holiday program from our facility in Waverley Road. These programs include the childcare, playgroup, adult education, toy library, community access and support, volunteer programs and access. We also operate programs from the Bisinella Centre in Buckingham Street.

Our facilities are used for dance classes for children and adults, karate, mum’s groups, Men’s Shed, Australian Breastfeeding, CWA, community meetings and Scope.

We run Tax Help and host Australian Hearing. We run bus trips for members of the community and occasional

information nights. We also offer free access for community groups wishing to run meetings for their members.

Lara Community Centre Inc runs a community enterprise business – Hire for Baby, Geelong Northern, as part of our operations. This ‘business’ supports the correct installation of child safety restraints in cars and offers safety checks to members of the community and groups at highly reduced rates.

Lara Community Centre is a member of the organising committee for the Lara Australian Day Breakfast, which is a free event held each year at the Lara Sporting Club.

The Lara Youth and Young Citizen of the Year awards are presented at this event. We are the proud auspicing organisation for the very successful Lara Food and Wine Festival, which is now entering it’s sixth year. This event is a fabulous example of community support in action.

The “Lara Happenings” is a local newsletter that has been provided to the community for in excess of thirtyfive years. It is produced every fortnight by the Lara Community Centre and delivered free of charge into most of the letterboxes in the Lara, Avalon and Little River areas.

Lara has many sites that are of interest to locals and tourists alike. Here are a few: Pirra Homestead, Serendip Sanctuary, Kevin Hoffman Walk, You Yang Regional Park, Mt Rothwell Conservation Area, Elcho Homestead, Hume & Hovell Monument, 1969 Bushfire Memorial, the Lara Museum and Historic Centre, the Avenue of Honour.

VIVIAN FRY

MANAGER OF LARA COMMUNITY CENTRE,

RESIDENT, PARENT, COMMUNITY MEMBER

PAGE 14 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 15

PROACTIVE PARENTS SAVE LIVES

WOULD YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO IF YOUR BABY BECAME SERIOUSLY ILL OR INJURED?

L EARN PAEDIATRIC FIRST AID WITH TINY HEARTS!

Nikki, Director of Tiny Hearts Paediatric First Aid, recalls an incident where a mother withheld CPR after her child choked. The mother didn’t know how to perform the skill. These incidents were not uncommon and being highly preventable, caused Nikki to identify the need for paediatric specific first aid training.

Rachel, Nikki’s business partner and sister, also realised after the birth of her child how little information was given to new parents regarding first aid for babies, considering the abundance of information that was given about other aspects of child rearing such as breastfeeding, sleep and play. These reasons motivated the sisters to begin first aid training courses specifically dealing with medical emergencies faced by babies and children.

At Tiny Hearts Paediatric First Aid we have witnessed how much of a difference it makes when parents are

prepared for the worst - it can be life saving! Tiny Hearts provide the highest quality training in first aid and CPR for parents, expecting parents, grandparents, siblings, family members and anyone who is responsible for the health and safety of babies and children.

The courses are interactive and energetic, and cover everything from infant CPR, choking and drowning, asthma and anaphylaxis, burns, head injuries, falls, and bleeding, temperatures, febrile convulsions and poisoning. Time is also spent on SIDS, and how to sleep babies safely to minimise the risk. Participants also receive a nationally recognised certificate in HLTAID001 Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.

It is extremely important that parents are aware of the need to understand basic first aid and CPR skills and to realise that guidelines have changed about many first aid procedures as many parents may not be up to date with the revised protocols. For example, old guidelines say to begin CPR if the child is not conscious and not breathing, however, if they are unconscious and have any kind of

abnormal breathing, CPR should be started.

Tiny Hearts covers it all and answers all and every type of question parents may have. We want parents and their families to feel empowered with the knowledge and skills to confidentially identify and manage any medical emergency should it occur.

Tiny Hearts also provides incredibly valuable first aid kits specifically designed to meet the needs of infants, toddlers and young children in the event of an emergency. Over 100 paediatric first aid kits have already been sold in their first month! Some of Australia’s biggest celebrities including Megan Gale, Zoe & Hamish Blake, Roxy Jacenko, Kate Waterhouse and Kate Ritchie have praised our first aid kits as well as endorsed our paediatric first aid training, having participated in private courses with our trainers.

IT IS WHAT YOU DO IN THE INITIAL MOMENTS OF

AN EMERGENCY THAT CAN SAVE YOUR CHILD’S

LIFE! - LEARN PAEDIATRIC FIRST AID TODAY!

-

IN G E E LONG

-

YOUTH HOMELESSNESS

PAGE 16 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 17

In Geelong there are hundreds of young people without accommodation each night. Youth homelessness in the Geelong region is a problem and a growing one at that. At least 80-100 of homeless people in our community each night are young people. In addition to this there are many more couch surfers who represent an additional large number of homeless youth in this region.

Geelong has a central Youth Entry Point accessible by young people (15-25) across the Geelong and Colac region who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Services include screening, assessment, housing information and referral, housing establishment, resource registry, resource matching and secondary consultation.

The good news is that homelessness can be prevented and at-risk youth can be supported in the best interests of the young person and keeping families together. For people experiencing conflict or other issues that can lead to homelessness (i.e. family conflict, drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence, school disengagement, mental health problems) and you need support, Time for Youth and Barwon Youth offer a range of services to young people aged 12-25 and family members in this community. The philosophy behind these services is to work with the young person and their parents/carers/siblings in order to address a range of risk factors that can be minimised and resolved with the expertise of trained case workers. Issues such as mentioned above can occur in adolescence with the young person and family members and this can lead to homelessness or other problems that affect the individuals for life in terms of stable housing, employment prospects and health.

Increasingly a focus on early intervention is occurring in the Geelong region as community leaders can see that increasing rates of crisis-driven support programs are not sustainable and there is clear research and practice driven alternatives to identify at-risk young people earlier and offer interventions when issues are first seen. Population screening and embedded partnerships with schools has seen innovative practices grow in preventing homelessness and school dropout and one such trial with this approach was successfully seen in The Geelong Project (TGP). Here schools, youth workers and data from the Student Needs Survey was able to identify early young people who were experiencing complex and intertwined risk factors and who were not already accessing services, but if left unsupported homelessness and other life-long problems would become their future.

There are a range of issues that can present themselves to

young people and their families during adolescence and, if left unaddressed, these will inevitably result in homelessness and other concerns. Innovative and world-first initiatives such as The Geelong Project are proving highly successful and private investment is currently being sought for further development of this work. If interested in discussing this further or obtaining advice or a referral please call Time For Youth on 03 5246 7500.

To show some of the positive outcomes that can be achieved with support from these services and some of the problems that can arise in adolescence, there is a case study below.

Nathan (name changed for privacy) left home at 16 due to a turbulent relationship with his mother and his father was murdered. He moved into a friends granny flat and then couch surfed for approximately 3 years and at point of referral Nathan and his girlfriend were staying at a local hotel using some support funds and some contribution of their own. Nathan was also heavily drinking at this stage and using amphetamines on a weekly basis. He also had a pending court appearance and had been ignoring the issue for a year.

Upon referral to the Youth Accommodation Support Service, Nathan and girlfriend were initially supported to stay at the hotel whilst they looked for private rental options, they received support around budgeting and maximising their income and were nominated for and received a youth temporary property to give them time to address other issues.

Time for Youth supported Nathan in maintaining his court fee repayments, providing information and advice to abstain from drug use, successfully maintaining employment and no longer receiving any Centrelink payments. He was supported to seek legal advice and attend court – he was able to provide a GP letter stating he was free from alcohol and drugs and was also supported in writing an apology letter.

He found work through his job network with a fencer which led to identifying an interest in obtaining his fork lift licence and a subsequent job through a recommendation by a friend.

Through the Streetwise Driving Program Nathan received driving lessons and just obtained his licence.

Youth Entry Point - 1800 825 955 Time For Youth - 03 5246 7500 between 9am and 5pm Lifeline on 13 11 14 24 hours a day, seven days a week Kids Help Line on 1800 55 1800 Mental health issues referrals can be made to headspace between 9am-5pm via Geelong 5222 6690 or Corio 5222 6690 or Drysdale 5253 0400

SALVOS MAKE THE

C O N N EC T I ON

SalvoConnect is the Adult Entry Point in the Barwon Region for people 25 years and over, who may be homeless, at risk of becoming homeless or living in unsuitable housing.

SalvoConnect also operates on-site crisis accommodation for up to 10 weeks, while we work with our residents and partnering agencies to hopefully locate permanent housing or safe, sustainable long term accommodation. We currently have 27 mums with 42 children on our waiting list, with many of these families living in cars while waiting for assistance.

SalvoConnect also operates many fantastic programs, social and educational. We have a safe environment where people may come to rest up and have a meal in our community room, or use our laundry and shower facility.

Walking Home is an event where the community come together to raise the awareness of homelessness within our region.

People walk from Queenscliff (37ks) to Geelong along the Bellarine Rail Trail and we also have the option for people to join us at Drysdale (20kms), Leopold (12kms) or the Geelong Showgrounds (3.5kms). Walking Home is now in its 6th year and so far we have distributed over 1,400 pairs of shoes to people in need through our Walking Home Shoe program. Money raised goes directly to vouchers for New Balance shoes, fitted and purchased through The Athletes Foot here in Geelong. An entire family can go in and come out wearing great new shoes. For the brave people walking the 37kms, a free bus from Geelong at 7am operates, delivering the walkers to the start in Queenscliff for a BBQ Breakfast and 8am kick off. We have water, snacks and support along the journey with another BBQ Lunch at Leopold, to fuel those bodies for the last little stretch. There is live music at the Geelong Waterfront from 1pm on the day, where families can wait and greet the walkers as they arrive.

Many of the people that access our organisation and other Geelong organisations walk with us. It gives people the opportunity to understand that we’re all in this together as a community. A person or family who has hit hard times is no different to you or I. When that 3rd or 4th pay packet doesn’t turn up, or a landlord raises the rent on a person the purse strings need to tighten, but once again money can only stretch so far.

The one thing we all need to have when this occurs is supports around us and the Walking Home event offers this. To have a community come out together, to show support for some of the most marginalised in our community you suddenly feel once again connected to something. The world maybe isn’t against you.

We would love to see more people get involved, so if you can join us on Saturday November 8 it would be fantastic. Our website www.walkinghome.org.au is now open for registrations and if you can find us on Facebook, all the up to date news will be posted.

PAGE 18 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 19 COME ALONG TO BARWON PARK

“I haven’t had to say “no” to any of the children all day, this is amazing!”

MANOR’S LOST SOULS WALK STRAIGHT

“Just goes to show, it doesn’t cost a fortune to have an awesome day out for the whole family”

MANSION’S HAUNTED HALLS. WATCH THE THROUGH THE WALLS. THE WITCHES OF THE WOODS WILL SWEEP IN ON THEIR

BROOMS AND THE MUMMIES WILL BREAK FREE OF THEIR COBWEBBED TOMBS.

Trick or Treat Kidz Fest, held at Historical Barwon Park Mansion, Winchelsea, began as a backyard childrens party and has grown to become a large community event held at historical Barwon Park Mansion, Winchelsea (20 minutes from Geelong – 1 hour from Melbourne), this festival is run by the Winchelsea Primary School, with all profits returned to the school.

Originating as a backyard childrens party to celebrate Halloween with lots of fun and freaky activities, such as Spooky Mini Golf, Pumpkin Bowling, Pumpkin & Eye Ball Toss, Toilet Paper Mummies, a Freaky Fashion Parade and Spooky Disco.

Each year the party has grown, so with the help of a handful of amazing mothers it was decided to create a Halloween Party for everyone to enjoy.

This is an opportunity for all children to enjoy dressing up and playing a range of interactive “Spooky” games and activities with families and friends. We have a stage jam-packed with “Spooktacular” children’s entertainers we have art and craft galore, quizzes and games, our “Fangtastic” Freaky Fashion Parade and lots lots more.... including our own proven fun and exciting spooky activities throughout the day to encourage family inclusion by all participating and enjoying the activities together.

The response from parents has been phenomenal.

“I just want to say thanks. I’m a single mum and don’t get to do much with the kids, but because the family ticket cost covered everything, it meant we could enjoy the day without the money worries” “I can’t believe it’s so cheap and the kids get to do everything as many times as they like...”

Once you are through the spooky gates, all activities for the day will be free. The only cost inside the Festival (all optional) will be food, drinks, merchandise stalls, raffle tickets and our spooky spinning wheel draws. Families will be able to bring along their own picnic lunch if desired.

Family tickets (2 adults, 3 children) just $60 Single tickets are $15 Children under 2 are free This is the best value family day in Victoria!

Some of the activities children and families can enjoy are: • Jungle Maze • Bungee Tramps • Abseiling Wall • Chair o Plane • Monty the Train • Jumping Castles • Snake Busters • Face Painting • On the spot prizes through the day • Animal Nursery • Spooky Mini Golf • Historic Mansion Tours – also included in price • Pumpkin Bowling • Spooky Games • Creepy and fun craft activities Entertainment on the main stage will include: • Bop Till You Drop - interactive dance • Crazy Daisy the Clown - hula hooping, plate spinning, juggling, pocket magic • Circus fireman - ladder manipulation, fire juggling, acrobats, comedy • Andy McGee - magician and circus workshop.

• Freaky Fashion Parade Come along and join in! It’s a great day out.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PURCHASE

YOUR TICKETS, PLEASE VISIT

WWW.TRICKORTREATKIDZFEST.ORG.AU

PAGE 20 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 21

HIT THE BOOKS - MOUNT DUNEED PRIMARY SCHOOL CELEBRATES BOOK WEEK Schools across the region, including Mount Duneed Regional Primary, embraced Book Week in September to encourage a love of literacy. Mount Duneed Regional Primary’s jam-packed program encouraged participation from students, teachers, parents and even grandparents in the book fest. As well as the popular Scholastic book fair (raising funds for the school library), family members were invited to join class time to read their favourite stories from their childhood. Children’s and Youth Services Librarian Lee Foyster from the Belmont

Library showed the school’s young bookworms all the short-listed publications for the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s ‘Book of the Year’ awards for 2014. Another special event was the reading of picture story book Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley written by Aussie author Aaron Blabey to the entire school. The book explores individuality and urging acceptance of people’s differences. A huge highlight of Book Week was the traditional dress-up parade. As well as famous fairytale characters, such as Goldilocks, Red Riding Hood and

Cinderella, there were plenty of contemporary book stars amongst the costumes: Wally (from Where’s Wally?), Dr Suess’ Cat in a Hat and Willy Wonka from Roald Dahl’s classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

The whole school community thoroughly enjoyed Book Week – a fun part of Mount Duneed Regional Primary’s core curriculum focussing on developing literacy and language skills.

Recently Geelong siblings Tom and Sophie Alexander won the prestigious International Cadet world championships in the United Kingdom.

Sixteen-year-old Tom started sailing only four years ago through the Royal Geelong Yacht Club’s Learn to Sail program and has since taken his love for the sport and his younger sister to compete on the world stage. “I started the program with no sailing experience and no idea what sailing entailed. Now I have fallen in love with the sport and the freedom it gives you as you sail out into the open water,” he says.

Tom and Sophie’s achievement represents one of the best sailing performances by an Australian team in forty years. Additionally, it demonstrates the Royal Geelong Yacht Club’s commitment to fostering sailing in our region. Rod Hagebols, RGYC Sailing and Training Manager says, “Sailing is a sport for all ages and abilities. We are very focused on making it easier for our community to experience sailing first hand. It’s open to everyone - not just members and it’s a great healthy, outdoor activity, and you don’t need to own a boat to sail,” he said.

The Royal Geelong Yacht Club has sailing programs to cater for all ages.

THE ‘TACKERS’ PROGRAM

Certified by Yachting Victoria as a comprehensive introduction to sailing, this fun-

filled four day course includes all equipment and teaches young children vital boating skills.

SCHOOL SAILING PROGRAMS

Longer-term sailing programs are currently run through Belmont High, St Josephs College, Sacred Heart College, Geelong College, Geelong Grammar and South Geelong Primary School.

THE LEARN TO SAIL PROGRAM

Opening in September with classes through till April, this program is designed for learners of all ages. It focuses not only on the sport of sailing but essential water skills.

CADET MEMBERSHIPS

Children aged 8-17 can sail weekly, gain further instruction and enjoy being part of a friendly, supportive community through cadet membership at RGYC. Importantly, RGYC members do not have to own a boat - they can simply charter a club vessel for the season. Currently 48 cadet members enjoy the facilities and fun, inclusive environment at the Royal Geelong Yacht Club.

DISCOVER SAILING DAYS

If you are interested in discovering more about sailing or popping down with the family to gain a feel for the club and its community, then join a ‘Discover Sailing’ day. The next one will be held on 26th October.

Participation is free, and all

equipment is provided.

Discover Sailing Days for schools will be held on the 9th and 10th of December.

For more information on attending a ‘Discover Sailing Day’ or any of the other youth sailing programs, please contact Rod Hagebols at RGYC, 25 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong. Phone 5229 ROYAL 3705 www.rgyc. com.au

GEELONG

YACHT CLUB

FROM BEGINNERS

THROUGH TO

WORLD CHAMPIONS

PAGE 22 - OCTOBER 2014

The title of this article in the Sydney Morning Herald grabbed my clicking attention – No safe level of missing school, study finds.

I dismissed it as soon as it stated the case study was based upon Naplan test results (standardised testing).

It’s the first major study linking poor attendance to lower NAPLAN results. The consensus is that missing just one day of school has negative consequences for a student’s academic achievement and those who choose to travel with their kids, even if it is for a long weekend, or a short two week jaunt to Paris, are completely screwing up their child’s ability to have a successful and fulfilling life.

Really?? It’s sad that Australian education is heading to the place where NAPLAN testing is the core focus of teaching and the only indicators of a child’s intelligence and potential. I say the NAPLAN test is every reason to be absent from school.

Relevant learning because of travel I thought more about that article as we walked around the rim of Kalkani Crater in Outback Queensland. Millions of years ago, this landscape in Far North Queensland, now called Undara Volcanic National Park, was a tumultuous place, filled with constant volcanic eruptions shaping the land. From the crater, we could look out to see volcanic peaks and get a sense of the land that once existed and how these constant volcanic eruptions helped to form the land. We looked down to the line of dark green rainforest growth depicting the lava tunnels we had walked through the day before. We learned about basalt and granite rock and how the lava flowed to form the tunnels. We heard of how the savannah took over part of the rainforest and why the two habitats can now live beside each other, one not destroying the other.

Why did I not know volcano’s existed in Australia?

I’m nearly 40 and have just discovered this. I’ve never heard of lava tunnels before and really had no thorough grasp on how they worked much beyond a huge explosion.

Why didn’t school teach me this? Or perhaps my teacher did, but it was lost on me as I daydreamed out the window trying to find solutions to my problem or dream of that hot boy in the school next door. Or maybe it was because the class clown needed more attention during that lesson.

Now, here was my six year old daughter standing beside me in a lava tunnel learning while she was experiencing (without the hot lava thankfully!). She picked up a basalt rock and in that moment understood that it was formed when the bubbling hot lava cooled down. She won’t ever have to try and remember that fact from a text book.

Apparently, according to the studies this experience was impacting my child’s education in a bad way!

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 23

Ha! Who the hell are our educators and those in charge of the research and creating the system? Apparently “they may be learning a lot about the world but they’re not necessarily learning everything they’d be learning at school.” Hmm, what are they learning in school then if it’s not about the world? I thought that’s what we all lived in and what we needed to know about in order to, not just survive, but thrive.

What about the life skills to thrive in this world?

Both my daughters have learned an incredible amount on this road trip so far. More than school will ever teach them and I say that from not only the perspective of a mother, but from my 15 years of Primary School teaching in five countries. Not only are they learning interesting things about science and social studies, spending time with Aboriginals, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, and walking through a 160 million year old rainforest, but they are learning the vital life skills that school fails to teach and NAPLAN tests fail to test. Making a decision, social responsibility, how to get along with strangers, how money works, how to plan and organize and take action. How to overcome fear, how to solve a problem, how to dream big, follow your passions and be yourself. One of the most important things of all – they’re forming an incredible bond with their parents and siblings. From my experiences as a former teacher, most of the troubled children came from families that were troubled. I’ve witnessed it in schools in Australia, London, Dublin, Bangkok and the USA. A strong family bond is one of the most important things in a child’s life that will give them the self-confidence and support to overcome any obstacles and to thrive. The only thing that home school does not give my child is long-term friendships, but then I look back at the school system and I think of all the dramas and heartache my students went through because of friendships and bullying, I wonder if she’s really missing out at all.

Connecting with nature As we were coasting along in a tiny boat through the narrow and exquisitely beautiful Cobbold Gorge on the Gulf Savannah, our guide, Emma, a sweet gentle lady whose passion for nature ran so deep said, “I’m so grateful to you parents for bringing your children here today. It’s so important that they come to these places in nature and be one with it to learn more about their land.” The closer our bond with nature, the healthier our lifestyle.

What classroom teaches you that? Do they talk about great health choices or how to de-stress through long bush walks, staring at the ocean, or meditation? As far as I know obesity levels, stress and depression is up on the this-is-really-scary levels for children. I believe if they ran a

CHILDREN

study on kids who travelled and interacted a lot in nature, these levels would be way down. In the car as we drove out of Cobbold Gorge, we started Kalyra’s formal lessons as part of her distance education.

She had to write a report on the many uses of trees – at last something relevant and interesting where she could showcase what fascinated her and all she had recently learned. She wrote about the pandanus palm and how wrapping a leaf around your head would take a away a headache. How the sap of the Bloodworth tree is a powerful antiseptic provided by nature. How the tea trees wrap their roots together to keep back the river banks, and how it provided us with paper to write on and soft paper to wipe our bums. If we never made her absent from school her report probably would have been a few lines of how great trees were to climb up.

Pretty important stuff for any child, but the travel part has helped her understand just how much more valuable trees are. Would this knowledge serve her well in a NAPLAN test? I doubt it would be tested.

The broken system is really broken The researchers are clutching at straws to try and explain why a broken system isn’t broken and pointing fingers at children who are traveling and not attending school. So the research shows there’s a correlation between low performance and days absent from school. Is it showing that some kids are shit at taking tests and crumble at the first question? Is it showing that some kids just don’t give a shit about tests so they don’t bother to show their capabilities? Does it show that teachers, due to the intense pressures of a broken system, no longer have the capabilities to educate children properly? Does it show how the emphasis on standardized testing and letting that guide the curriculum is destroying curiosity and enthusiasm for learning in our kids and how it’s distressing parents who don’t understand, so take the test results as gospel that there is something wrong with their kids?

What are the implications of that by the way?

I know with the formal school work I do with Kalyra on the road she’ll be asked to do many tasks, for example retelling something she’s just read. It’s usually a book she has no interest in and is a little bored by it. Perhaps

LEARNING

ON THE ROAD

it just didn’t rock her world. And she feels she’s done with it and doesn’t want to discuss it. So her retelling is pretty poor. Based on that her teacher could mark her as a low performer and not great at comprehension. What they don’t know is that three weeks after she watched Frozen she spent an hour walk next to her father retelling the whole story, including word for word dialogue from the characters. Last week she devoured a chapter book in two hours and then retold the entire story for me. She’s currently reading a Lonely Planet Travel Book that is probably on a fifth grade reading level (she’s 6). Sure there are words she has difficulty with, but she can sure tell us a few of the amazing facts she’s learning about all the countries of the world. She knows she doesn’t really want to go to Kakadu National Park because in 2006 a croc snuck into someone’s tent! But Paris holds her fascination and is at the top of her bucket list.

Children learn in different ways.

Children express what they know in different ways. Some do it well through a test, where they bubble in responses.

They’re good at remembering and rote learning and love the satisfaction of achieving high results and getting a gold star. Other kids enjoy the processes of learning more than the results. They like to showcase the journey – the destination seeming almost pointless, so why bother?

Cause many kids are like that. If they don’t see the point, the won’t try. In fact many adults are like that – myself included.

The part where I swear I’m annoyed this “study” has come out and may scare parents away from travelling with their kids and taking some time off school to do it. Don’t fear the NAPLAN test or any kind of standardized testing. After spending four years teaching to a test in the USA I can see what a scary and dangerous road we’re taking in Australia following this path. I got out of teaching because I couldn’t handle being a part of it anymore and damaging kids.

You know something is broken when, in response to your concerns that the fifth grade students don’t know their basic multiplication skills, your principal says: “Don’t worry about that. They can use a calculator in the EOG (End of Grade Test) so you don’t have to spend any more time on it.” What the %*&$ is that about? Excuse my French, but that should have the highly emotive force of a cuss word behind it. I also wasted hours of valuable teaching time, teaching my children how to bubbly they answers so the pencil stayed in the bubble AND how to use process of elimination to get rid of two of the answers in the multiple choice questions. That way they only had two to guess from and more chances of getting it right. I KID you NOT!!

It’s freakin catastrophic.

That’s what these stupid tests do.

I’m in no hurry to send my child back to school. I think she’s far smarter without it. I think she’s been granted the gift of space to love learning to embrace her curiosities to follow her own passions, to not waste time learning shit that bores her and she’ll never use again once she leaves school. I’m so glad I spent hundreds of hours learning algebra and calculus during Maths class because since I finished my final Year 12 maths exam, I’ve used it for…

I’ve used it for….. shit, Oh hang on for NOTHING. But, everything I have learned to help me live a happy and fulfilled life has come from the lessons and experiences I’ve had travelling. Except for reading, basic maths, and writing, which I grant school helped me out with to a certain extent. What would you rather, a child that’s good at regurgitating information to pass a test or one that can create and innovate based upon their passions and talents? Who are the better inheritors of the earth? Those kids given the opportunity to interact with their world, to learn about nature and survival, to learn how other think and solve problems, to investigate cause and effect with their own hands, to socialise with people from many parts of the world, to think creatively, to help their parents solve the problems when they run out of fuel, or take a wrong turn, or can start a fire, and grow a veggie garden, raise cattle, and help other diplomatically resolve disputes with the ability to see and understand all sides. These are the kids that might fail a stupid test but will win at the game of life.

Some of the most successful and richest people on the planet never finished high school or went to college.

If you are going to take your kids out of school to travel do this Some of those findings could be a true reality – absentee kids’ education could well be affected. But delve deeper into the stories behind it before making blanket statements.

Perhaps there are learning difficulties already there.

Perhaps their parents don’t take the time to do some work because if you do take your kids out of school there is some work you’ve still got to do. They will learn so much from interacting from the world around them, but you do have to keep the skills up. Reading and basic maths and writing is essential. You cannot take a holiday from them, but it’s so easy to incorporate that and I find kids will pick up the skills far easier because its one-on-one learning and far less distractions than you will find in a classroom.

Schools do have a purpose and are important for helping kids learn, but a revolution is needed to make it more relevant to life! Standardized testing should be nuked! I’m

currently putting together an eBook of a series of articles I wrote about life learning. Within will have lots of amazing tips for helping children learn – with love and passion, outside the school walls. After reading this article, I feel like I need to get that finished and out there to help parents who might feel a little overwhelmed by the school system and these stupid tests and might need some help to take on some of the responsibility themselves.

All good education starts from the home.

Parents are the foremost educators for their children, they cannot pass that torch over to the school system because its broken and teachers are stretched to the max. I love and adore teachers, I know the hell they go through, and I know that at the core of what they do they just want to help children learn and love it. Their job is getting more and more difficult due to the powers above who don’t have a clue. Sadly more of our quality teachers are running for an alternative path, or taking time out on stress leave.

Simple tips to get you started: I’m not sure these tests are going away. Let your children know that it’s important they do their best, but it’s not the be all and end all. They are amazingly talented and intelligent beings who have something very special to offer the world and often tests and schools don’t know how to recognize that.

Read to your child every single night from birth. I don’t care how busy you are. We’re all busy. You just need to do ten minutes a night. It’s a beautiful bonding experience and will help them in more ways than anything else. I know that Kalyra picked up reading very quickly because of this ten minute a night groundwork – it really is that powerful.

Incorporate basic maths in your everyday life and discussions. Let them help you with shopping, let them touch money and hand it over and count the change. Let them measure out the ingredients when you cook.

Allow them to pursue their passions. If they’re super talented at soccer, let them join a team. If they’re passionate about the guitar, get them lessons, sign them up for acting classes, allow them to dance. Skip homework if you have to, the passions are more important (Don’t get me started on the homework rant!)

Travel as often as you can. Even if it’s a weekend getaway to explore new regions in your home town. And take days of school to do it if you need to. Hell, take a whole month off. You won’t regret it and the development of your child’s whole self will be amazing – that’s the true purpose of education.

Caz and Craig Makepeace are serial travellers and bloggers and can be found at www.ytravelblog.com

PAGE 24 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 25

MUSIC

ARTS

GO OUTSIDE & PLAY There was a time, not that long ago, when kids were told to “go outside and play!” They were given the freedom to ride bikes to the local park, hang out with the neighbourhood kids and discover the real world on their own. They would climb trees, build cubbies, muck about in creeks and play games together – skipping, elastics, knucklebones, Cat’s Cradle and marbles. Kids back then just had to make sure they were home when the street lights came on.

These days, kids are more likely to spend their free time looking at screens – TVs, iPads, laptops, smartphones, Xboxes and the list goes on. Shockingly, you can even buy iPad holders for babies too young to hold their own heads up.

AND THE RESULT?

Australian school children now rank among the worst in the world for overall physical activity levels. The recently published Active Healthy Kids Australia Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth has found 80 percent of 5-17 year olds are not meeting the Australian physical activity guidelines of at least 60 minutes of exercise each day. These statistics are so poor that Australian kids’ overall physical activity levels were awarded a D minus. Too many Australian parents believe playing sport is enough to keep their kids healthy.

The Heart Foundation’s Associate Professor, Trevor Shilton, said the evidence can’t be ignored. “We’re raising a generation of couch potatoes and if we don’t start to reverse this trend this will drive up health problems in the

future – obesity, high blood pressure and heart disease,” he said.

“We know what works. We need to encourage and support our kids to stay active in everyday life – to be social and play outside, to walk and cycle in their neighbourhoods, do some household chores and limit hours of screen time.”

Geelong playwright, Rosan Chakir, has taken a creative approach to encouraging our kids to get off their screens and active in the outdoors. Her latest theatre piece, Let’s Play Up, examines the important business of play through intergenerational eyes. It inspires kids to switch off their screens and try out the games their parents and grandparents played in the local park like hopscotch and ‘What’s the time Mr Wolf?’. It also challenges adults to reflect on their role in encouraging kids to get active.

Let’s Play Up reminds parents to pass on their heritage of playing games, encourage independence in their children and to simply take the time to play together.

Excitingly, Let’s Play Up will be premiered to the public at a unique celebration that includes the theatrical presentation, traditional games in the outdoors and afternoon tea. A highlight of the Children’s Week and Geelong Senior’s Festival calendars, this will be an intergenerational event not to be missed.

Following the premiere performance, Let’s Play Up will form the basis of PlayNation, a new primary school initiative designed to inspire and support kids and families to turn off their screens and play together in local green spaces. The students at each participating school in the

3219 and 3214 postcodes will see a performance of the play and have the opportunity to attend a series of afterschool facilitated games sessions. Healthy snacks will keep the after-school munchies at bay and local maps with ideas to continue the fun in their local neighbourhood will encourage them to get active.

After-all, no-one wants to see a D minus on our Active Healthy Kids Australia report card. Especially when getting an A can be so much fun!

PlayNation is the brainchild of Bluebird Foundation, a Geelong-based charity dedicated to making quality arts programs accessible for all. The idea grew out of their intergenerational book project about games beyond the screen. In 2013, local residents aged 10 to 94 worked with artist, Trace Balla, to remember, draw and write about their childhood games. Together they created a special picture book called Playing Up. It was clear that the concept resonated with the community when a Pozible campaign raised 30 percent above its funding target to enable the book to be printed. As a result, copies of Playing Up were donated to every primary school and library branch in the Geelong region.

PlayNation has been made possible with the financial support of the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, Geelong Connected Communities and the City of Greater Geelong.

To book tickets to Let’s Play Up or find out how you can help make a difference by supporting Bluebird Foundation, go to www.bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au.

MUSIC

ARTS

AC AB E L L AS

Gifted children in the Geelong region get the chance to meet once a month at our fun-filled workshops.

This month Sue Hindle from Acabellas ran a singing workshop for the children. She started with breathing exercises that integrated deep belly sounds and body movement games. Other exercises explored sound and tempo.

The children projected their voices out loud in an amusing way - a confidence boost for the group.

They also composed and performed their own work using voice and instruments.

Music is important for a child’s cognitive development as it stimulates creativity and imagination. Concepts explored: - The importance of listening, repeating and paying attention - Using both sides of the brain (Left for patterns, logic and right for creativity, intuition) - Extending vocal range and harmony - Co-operation and team work - Confidence through performance Sue ended the session with a relaxation exercise. A great way to wind down after all the energetic activity!

Check our website for more information and to find out about our next CHIP Forum with psychologist Dr. Gail Byrne on October 14. This session is for parents and teachers of gifted children. http://www.chipgeelong.ingeelong.com.au/ To find out more about Acabellas for private singing sessions, workshops or wellbeing sessions, visit www.acabellas.net.au Article courtesy of CHIP Centre Geelong www. chipgeelong.ingeelong.com.au

PAGE 26 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 27

& C O O K IN G

CRAFTS

GHOST PA PE R PL A TE DIRECTION S

1. Cut out 3 black ovals for the ghost’s eyes and mouth then glue them to the paper plate 2. Cut the white crepe paper into 10cm widths.

3. Tape three strands of the white crepe paper to the back of the paper plate.

4. Snip them in half lengthways, so that they form narrow fluttery strands.

5. Using a glue stick rub it over the ghost’s eyes mouth and sprinkle purple glitter on them.

6. Cut out two arms of the white paper and tape them to the ghost.

WHA T YOU NEED ...

PAPER PLATE - WHITE & BLACK COLOURED PAPER - TAPE & GLUE - WHITE CREPE PAPER - GLITTER (OPTIONAL)

*PLEASE BE CAREFUL WHEN USING SHARP OR HOT OBJECTS. ACCORDING TO kidsafevic.com.au “THE HOME IS THE MOST COMMON LOCATION FOR CHILDHOOD INJURY. THEREFORE IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT WE MAKE OUR HOMES AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE.”

MUMMY D OGS METHOD

1. Defrost the puff pastry, if frozen.

2. Cut it into strips 3. Dry the cooked sausages with a paper towel as the excess water will

prevent the dough from sticking to them.

4. Wrap the dough strips around the sausage, leaving a bit of space at the

end for the face.

5. Cook at 180 degrees for 14-17 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.

6. When cool, add two mustard eyes. You could use tomato sauce instead.

INGR EDIE NTS HOT DOGS - PUFF PASTRY - MUSTARD & TOMATO SAUCE

PAGE 28 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 29

RESISTING THE ENEMY

CLASS ACT

The story of Valentine de Vaillant, known as Valli, stretches from the beaches of Australia to the boulevards of pre-war Paris, through the German Blitzkrieg and the long dark years of the occupation of France. From the moment Valli joins a Resistance group in Lyon, she engages in a series of dangerous clandestine activities that at any moment could lead to arrest by the dreaded Gestapo. When she finds herself becoming attracted to a German officer, her world is thrown into turmoil. Resisting the Enemy is a thrilling story of conflict, danger and passion, and a love between enemies that seems impossibly doomed. It is also about music and opera, the enduring bonds of friendship, and the life and death choices one makes in a time of war.

Ending the education wars! Through a series of conversations and case studies Maxine McKew documents the transformation that’s now underway in classrooms around Australia and examines the strategies that are helping to lift academic performance, particularly in some of Australia’s most challenged schools. Class Act invites reflection on one of our most pressing national dilemmas—how we replicate success across a fragmented educational system and reverse the decline in student performance.

Lorraine Campbell - Publisher Palmer Higgs FOR TEENAGE READERS

TRIAL BY FIRE

Josephine Angelini – Publisher Pan MacMillan Australia FOR TEENAGE READERS This world is trying to kill Lily Proctor. Her life-threatening allergies keep her from enjoying many of the experiences that other teenagers take for granted...which is why she is determined to enjoy her first (and perhaps

HOW WE LEARN

Benedict Carey – Publisher Pan MacMillan Australia How We Learn is a landmark book that shakes up everything we thought we knew about how the brain absorbs and retains information. Filled with powerful - and often thrillingly counterintuitive - wisdom, stories and practical tips, it gets to the very heart of the learning process; and gives us the keys to reach our very fullest potential in every walk of life.

only) high-school party. But Lily’s life never goes according to plan, and after a humiliating incident in front of half her graduating class Lily wishes she could just disappear.

Suddenly Lily is in a different Salem - one overrun with horrifying creatures and ruled by powerful women called Crucibles. Strongest and cruellest of all the Crucibles is Lillian ...

Lily’s identical other self in this alternate universe. This new version of her world is terrifyingly sensual, and Lily is soon overwhelmed by new experiences. Lily realizes that what makes her weak at home is exactly what makes her extraordinary in New Salem. It also puts her life in danger.

Thrown into a world she doesn’t understand, Lily is torn between responsibilities she can’t hope to shoulder alone, and a love she never expected. But how can Lily be the saviour of this world when she is literally her own worst enemy?

MO VIE REVIEWS

Maxine McKew - Publisher Melbourne University Publishing

GATED Amy Christine Parker

– Publisher Randomhouse - FOR TEENAGE READERS

Appearances can be deceiving. Lyla Hamilton is a loyal member of the Community. Her family was happy to be chosen by Pioneer to join such an lovely gated neighbourhood. Here, life seems perfect. But after meeting Cody, an outsider boy, Lyla starts questioning Pioneer, her friends, her family--everything. And if there’s one thing not allowed in the Community, it’s doubt. As Pioneer cleverly manipulates his flock toward disaster, the real question is: Will Lyla follow her heart or follow Pioneer over the edge? From the outside looking in, it’s hard to understand why anyone would join a cult. But Gated tells the story from the inside looking out, and from behind the gates things are not quite so simple.

Amy Christine Parker’s beautiful writing creates a chilling, utterly unique YA story. Perfect for fans of creepy thrillers and contemporary fiction alike.

SKEANIE SKEANIE’s new collection of Coast-

Leather Sandals are the perfect shoe for our little Cupcake Kids. Available in sizes 2-8, SKEANIE sandals have been designed alongside Australia’s leading podiatrists and physiotherapists to ensure the design and material support the natural development of children’s feet. The design and fabrication of SKEANIE sandals ensure that the foot can still move and develop, without the heaviness of hard leather and flexible rubber soles. Available in Fuscia, Rainbow, Blue, Silver, Yellow and White, these colour combinations are sweeter than a sugar-high!

S PO N S O RE D B Y

GEELONG

SHOPKINS - Moose Toys

Moose Toys, the creators of the Zelfs, have just released their newest offering: Shopkins. :) These fun little collectibles are miniature characterized versions of things you would find in a grocery store or in the makeup department. :) There are lots of

AIR HOGS ROLLERCOPTER

Smash, crash, roll and bash with the all-new Air Hogs Rollercopter!

Playing by its own rules, the Air Hogs Rollercopter can roll up walls, smash off ceilings; roll on the ground and yes, fly like a normal helicopter. The protective cage allows the helicopter to take serious bumps and keep on going. New pilots will never have to worry about crashing as they roll into an all-new RC helicopter experience with the Air Hogs Rollercopter!

them to collect, from fruits and veggies to desserts and breads to makeup and other toiletries.

There are several differently sized playsets and packs of Shopkins to choose from. The easiest and least expensive way to add them to your collection is by purchasing the Shopkins baskets:

MOBILE MED KIT - Funtatsic

The Mobile Med Kit will tickle the funny bones of little ones while encouraging learning, combining two popular types of play. Toddlers can press the siren on the ambulance to launch medical missions, then race over to help patients, with their medical tools on hand -- a stethoscope, otoscope, thermometer and syringe – to role play giving, and getting, check-ups at the Doctor. Rolling the ambulance and pressing the siren prompts songs, such as “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes,” as well as fun phrases that teach about the human body, health and hygiene. Friendly sound effects help prepare kids for real medical check-ups with role-play fun. Suitable for 2+ years

ONE DIRECTION: WHERE WE ARE

In Cinemas: 11th October The Concert Film From X Factor to the San Siro Stadium in Milano, One Direction hit the world with success. See them perform live in the San Siro Stadium and watch 15 minutes of exclusive footage never seen before, along with behindthe-scenes interviews and the band taking selfies before stepping out on stage. The boys are back.

THE BOXTROLLS In Cinemas: 18th September

The Boxtrolls, a community of quirky, mischievous creatures, have lovingly raised an orphaned human boy named Eggs in the amazing cavernous home they’ve built beneath the streets of Cheesebridge.

When the town’s villain, Archibald Snatcher, comes up with a plot to get rid of the Boxtrolls, Eggs decides to venture above ground, “into the light,” where he meets and teams up with fabulously feisty Winnifred. Together, they devise a daring plan to save Eggs’ family.

PAGE 30 - OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 - PAGE 31

2 OCTOBER

NEW PROGRAMS FOR YMCA The YMCA has just introduced three exciting new programs!

Mums and Bubs – is a 45 minute post natal fitness and wellbeing program. Babies aged from 6 weeks can enjoy active movement with their mothers in a comfortable environment. It also gives mothers the opportunity to connect and build friendships with other mothers.

Play Group – YMCA Playgroup is a chance for children and their parents to connect, socialise, play and relax in a community friendly environment.

Steady Feet – a ten week exercise program for older adults designed to develop muscle strength and balance plus decrease the risk of falls. They also receive advice on foot care, vision and nutrition and most importantly have fun in a safe and enjoyable environment!

For more information on any of these programs call us on 52232714 or visit our website geelong.ymca.org.au

Surf Coast Baby & Kids Market, Surf Coast Sport & Recreation Centre 77 Beach Rd Torquay. Preloved items, quality hand made goods, new products as well as businesses promoting activities and services for babies, children and families.

9 OCTOBER

11-12 OCTOBER

passionate about research into a cause and hopefully a cure.

On October 12 this year we are inviting all families affected in any way by diabetes to join with us in the annual “Walk to Cure Diabetes” along the waterfront from Rippleside Park.

You can walk 2km or 5km completely at your leisure and support families like ours most especially the kids who live everyday with the ups and downs that come with life with diabetes.

Day out with Thomas. Spend a day with Thomas, Henry, Douglas, Oliver, Salty and those Troublesome Trucks. Event tickets include a 40 minute train ride, unlimited activities, displays, photo opportunities galore and more.

16 OCTOBER

Royal Geelong show, Geelong showgrounds

FREE FAMILY FUN DAY AT THE SHED

The 2013 Family Fun Day attracted over 6,000 visitors. Come along and find out why!

Week events and includes free festivities such as performance, music, storytelling and workshops.

With heaps of activities, Family Fun Day is a great celebration of family life. This popular event, now in its sixth year, kicks off the Bellarine Peninsula’s Children’s

Children of all ages will love the range of arts, rides and sporting activities as well as face paiting, crafts and fun by the bucket load!

Friday Night Skate, Barwon Valley Activity Centre, 1 Barwon Heads Rd Belmont.

Run on alternate Friday nights during school terms, this session offers indoor skating, roller blading and skateboarding.

Running for over 20 years, Friday Night Skate takes place at Barwon Valley Activity Centre, every 2nd Friday during the school term. Skateboards, scooters and rollerblades welcome. This event is not suitable for bikes or BMX. Ramps and rails will be set up however, your own skate equipment is necessary. Helmets and safety equipment must be worn at all times. 7 – 10pm. $5.00

17 OCTOBER

Compounding pharmacy Range of Children’s Flavours • Melatonin Liquid • Omeprazole Liquid •

Children’s Week Launch. The City of Greater Geelong invites families to participate in this special launch of Geelong Children’s Week. Join us for Carousel rides, face painting, roving characters. Bookings essential. The Carousel, Eastern Beach Road, Geelong 9.30am-10.30am

18 OCTOBER

Kids Fun Day. Kids Fun Day at Rix Street Kindergarten. Activities include face painting, biscuit decorating and craft table.

Rix Street Kindergarten, 49 Rix Street, Herne Hill. 10am-12pm

19 OCTOBER

Compounding pharmacy

Family Fun Day @ The Potato Shed,41 Peninsula Drive, Drysdale. Join us in a FREE celebration of family life on the Bellarine Peninsula. Music, storytelling, art and sporting activities, face painting, crafts

Injections, pessaries and creams

PA R D E Y S E A S T B RO O K E M E D I C A L C E N T R E P H A R M AC Y 7 5 R O S LY N R D , B E L M O N T PA R D E Y S B E L M O N T V I L L AG E P H A R M AC Y 1 0 / 6 5 H I G H S T, B E L M O N T PA R D E Y S H I G H TO N P H A R M AC Y 8 1 B A R R A B O O L R D , H I G H T O N

20 OCTOBER

Leopold Playgroup Open Day. Free family fun, toys, activities, facepainting, show bags, morning tea.

Come and see what playgroup has to offer! Leopold Playgroup, 1 Vicarage Road, Leopold 9am-12pm

21 OCTOBER

across all art forms - GPAC’s Poppykettle Festival aims to ignite the imagination of young children with workshops; activities and performances that will stimulate their minds, engage their bodies and fuel their creative expression. Free to attend.

Geelong 10am-1pm

Rosewall Neighbourhood Centre Kids Café. International food, art, craft, music activities for preschool children. Rosewall Neighbourhood Centre, 36 Sharland Drive, Corio. 10am-1pm.

23 OCTOBER

Snow White Performance @ Geelong East Primary School. 30 minute nontraditional performance of Snow White

by Grade 3/4 students. Geelong East Primary School, 184 Boundary Road, Geelong East. 11.30am-12pm

Art Expression Session, Bellarine Community Health. The Bellarine Community Health, Child Health and Development Team have invited the talented Roslyn Pollard from Ocean Jasper Art Therapy to participate in a free fun filled morning of ‘creative expression’. While the groups are busy, family and friends are welcome to attend an information session conducted by the Child Health and Development Service Providers. If you are interested to know more, or would like to register for this event email Drysdale.Recept@bch.org.au or phone (03) 52514640

21 OCTOBER

Australian Breastfeeding Association, Grovedale Neighbourhood House, 45-47 Heyers Road, Grovedale. Sleep! 9.30 11.30am. For more information contact Gillian Thornton on 0400 676 466

21 OCTOBER

‘Ocean Awareness’ Session, Community Room, Boorai Childcare Centre, Shell Road, Ocean Grove. This awesome session is aimed at wannabe surfers and surfers starting out, beach goers and ocean lovers. The workshop will be segmented into areas of Ocean Awareness; Surf Safety (including correct equipment, being able to assess conditions); Surf Etiquette and Surf Hints & Tips. Entry by gold coin donation, (all proceeds will go towards a beach clean up). 4pm

22 OCTOBER

23 OCTOBER

Family Maths Night. Celebrate the world of Maths at Mount Duneed Regional Primary School. Fun games you can play anywhere, anytime with your family. Mount Duneed Regional Primary School, 100 Williams Road, Mount Duneed. 6pm

23 OCTOBER

Teddy Bears Picnic. A fun filled morning of music, dance and activities for pre-school aged children, their teddy bear friends and parents, Cloverdale Community Centre, 167-169 Purnell Road, Corio. 10am-1pm

23 OCTOBER

GPAC’s Poppykettle Kinder Day, The Geelong Performing Arts Centre, Little Malop Street. Celebrating creativity

Boat Making & Sailing. Children can build their own boat and sail it down the Customs Park Fountain. Bring your gumboots! Customs Park (beside Sailor’s Rest) Eastern Beach Road, Geelong 10am-12pm

24 OCTOBER

North Geelong Secondary College Multicultural Festival

25 OCTOBER

Family Disco Dance with Halloween

Theme. Family Halloween disco, dress to suit the theme. DJ Mitch and great atmosphere. Meal included. Cost Adults $15 Children $7. Bookings essential Club Italia, 515 Queenscliff Road, Moolap 6pm10pm

25 OCTOBER

Freshwater Creek Steiner School Spring Fair, 52 McIntyres Rd, Freshwater Creek.

The School’s Annual Spring Fair can guarantee you a wholesome, fun and exciting day. They will have the bush babies, home made food and produce as well as wood work, handmade items and a school open day. 10am - 3pm

26 OCTOBER

Family Fun Day at Waterworld. FREE entry! Pirate theme with activities including waterslides, aqua roller, splash pad, jumping castle, face painting, balloon sculpting, sausage sizzle and a visit from the Neverland pirate fairy and Webstar the platypus. Waterworld, Cnr Cox Road and Melbourne Road, Norlane. 11am-3pm

31 OCTOBER

Flamefest, Whittington Link

31 OCTOBER

Friday Night Skate, Barwon Valley Activity Centre, 1 Barwon Heads Rd Belmont.

Run on alternate Friday nights during school terms, this session offers indoor skating, roller blading and skateboarding.

Running for over 20 years, Friday Night Skate takes place at Barwon Valley Activity Centre, every 2nd Friday during the school term. Skateboards, scooters and rollerblades welcome. This event is not suitable for bikes or BMX. Ramps and rails will be set up however, your own skate equipment is necessary. Helmets and safety equipment must be worn at all times. 7 – 10pm. $5.00

T EL L U S WH AT ’S O N IN Y O U R AR E A E M AIL E DIT O R @KIDS VO IC E .C O M .AU

Held Stoc in k

D I RE C TOR Y

IVF drugs

20 OCTOBER

Best Start - North Early Childhood Expo. Come along and chat to service providers from a range of different services, receive information and FREE advice. Kindergartens, playgroups, Maternal and Child Health, Barwon Health, local schools, Family Day Care, Support Services and community services will all be there for you to meet and get your questions answered. Corio Shopping Centre, Bacchus Marsh Road, Corio 10am-12pm

21 OCTOBER

17 OCTOBER

T RA DE

No one knows what causes type 1 diabetes so a cure is hard to imagine until we have a cause but JDRF are a charity

5 OCTOBER

Australian Breastfeeding Association, The Spring Creek House, 14 Price St, Torquay.

10.30am - 12.30pm. Keeping baby close – International Babywearing week. For more information contact Gillian Thornton on 0400 676466

JDRE DIABETES WALK I year, 1,460 needles, 2,190 finger pricks and at least 4 blood tests, and that’s just one of us. That’s why we dream of a cure for Type 1 or Juvenile Diabetes. In our house my Dad and I share the special bond of having this disease but we both know it’s a bond we’d happily break and give away if it meant a cure for type 1 diabetes.

Australian Breastfeeding Association, Western Heights Uniting Church Hall, 2731 Douglass St, Herne Hill. Breastfeeding through pregnancy and beyond. 10am12pm. For more information contact Gillian Thornton on 0400676 466

and fun by the bucket load! Enjoy performances by the Mik Maks and Pinocchio. Come and Try - hockey, soccer, tennis, athletics, karate and ballet with local clubs. 11am-3pm.

Health

Parties

Parties