Kids Voice March 2014 by The Voice

MARCH

PA RTY PLA N N I N G

G EE LO NG KI DS E XPO

COPING W ITH REJECTION -

SYMPTOMS OF ANXIETY

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NATI O NA L P L A Y GRO U P W E E K W H A T’S O N

GI V E A W A Y S

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

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 3

WELCO M E

Can you believe that time is flying by so fast? We are already in March and summer is almost over. Nothing is permanent and nothing lasts forever, which leads me to a big question. How do you deal with death? What do you tell your children? This could be death of a pet or death of a loved one. For me personally, we have always been open and honest with our kids. When our pet had to be put down a few years ago, we gave our children – then 8 and 11 – the option of being part of the process. One child opted to be in the vet surgery when our pet was put down, the other child opted not to (although at the last minute changed his mind and asked to be included). This way the vet and us, as parents, could talk our children through the process and also show our grief. This gave our kids permission to grieve themselves and to also understand that tears are an emotion that is acceptable and not to be hidden. Unfortunately many parents want to shield their children (and themselves) from illness and death, however I feel that the more open and honest you can be with your children, the less taboo the subject becomes. Talk to them, allow them to ask questions, be lead by them. On another, more upbeat note, we have three great giveaways this edition. A one day seminar with Dr Dain Heer on “Being You, Ending the Struggle with Money”, Playschool concert tickets, Greater Geelong Kids Expo Tickets and Comedy Club For Kids tickets. See page 28 for more details. Happy March everyone!

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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.

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- MARCH 2014

CONTENTS 8

19 21

Food Labelling Nature: Serendip Sanctuary Mother Idols Worthy as a Mother Read the Play: Signs of Anxiety Reader Blog: Teenage Drinking Seachange Mums Technology: Go Pro Sport: Soccer Music & Arts Bravehearts Cooking & Crafts Reviews Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On

...AND MU CH MO RE

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H O W D O I ...? P A R T Y P L A N N I N G Your child is having a party. What springs to cheaper than holding them mind? Birthday presents, cak at a venue, however e, children . . . . you need to deal with the me noise, mess, headaches! It ss afterwards. doesn’t have to be You have more control ove like that. One of the joys of r your party if you having children is are holding it at home as you seeing their excited faces can select what when you arrange a food is on offer; you can go magical fantasy for them. Birt as wild as you like hday parties can with the decorations and you be great fun, from the simple can tie everything party right through into one theme. Decorating you to the elaborate, co-ordina r front door ted function. Just with balloons and hanging remember though, to think streamers from the about who you are ceilings creates a really goo trying to impress with the gra d atmosphere. nd affair – kids Food can range from simple don’t need much to enjoy the sandwiches mselves! through to fancy meals or out side catering A themed birthday party can can take a lot of the strain be a great chance from you, and is not to bring out the magical fan necessarily costly. Cakes can tasy and there is be home-made such a huge range of co-ord or ordered in and can tie in inated products to your theme. out there. Start off with a par Entertainment can be in the ty plan – and form of music and remember that with the gam games, hiring a bouncy cas es, it is important to tle/ball pool, or via be flexible and sometimes party entertainers. They ran you need to go with ge from traditional the flow. Your party plan can discos, clowns and magician be broken down s to live reptiles into date, location, budget, and creative crafts and ofte number of children, n provide two or boys/girls or both, food. The three hours of entertainment reafter you can opt , giving you a quick to go with the following opt breather! Party bags are a ions – theme, fancy nic e touch, and can dress, entertainment, music, be as simple or as fancy as games, prizes, you like. decorations including tablew are, party bags. Parties at venues generally have everything If your child is old enough, organised for you – from ent encourage them to ertainment to food be a part of the process. It - and the dreaded cleaning helps them learn up is also done about decision making and for you. Lots of local places negotiating – offer children’s especially when you need parties, from play centres to make the rule on to swimming pools, the number of children atte restaurants to farms and eve nding! n pottery painting! Spe cialist party venues may nee Send out your invitations abo d you to add ut two weeks some extras, such as the cak before the party date, along es and party bags, with an RSVP so others can do everything for that you can work out num you. Of course, bers. It can be helpful you can combine venues, such as to put a date to RSVP by, the cinema although you can still with a restaurant. end up chasing people! If you are holding your event at a party venue, the Whatever the decision, ma y may provide you ke sure that you with invitations. remember to have fun and not go over your budget. Decide what you mu There are pros and cons to st have and make where you hold do with the rest. your parties. Parties at hom e are obviously a lot

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- MARCH 2014

GIS E LL E ’S I M A G E OF BIRTH

I am 45 years old and hail from South Africa. We emigrated to Australia in October 2009 and love every minute of our stay here in Geelong. I’ve been a radiographer and a sonographer for the past 26 and 14 years respectively obtaining qualifications with the ARDMS ( American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers), ASUM (Australian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine), and currently hold registrations with ARDMS, ASA (Australian Sonographer’s Association) and ASAR (Australian Sonographer’s Accreditation Registry). I have 3 biological children and adopted my godchild at the age of 10 years when my younger sister (her mum) passed away unexpectedly. We were very close and she’s always considered me as her mum. She has blossomed into a beautiful young lady and is now almost 25 years old. My eldest son is 26 years old, is married and is a very successful graphics and web designer in South Africa. My 20 year old daughter who is the free spirit in the family, lives and works in Melbourne. Our youngest is 9 years old and is a soccer crazy footballer, a passion that is shared by both my husband and I as thats where we first met so many years ago. (We are both still avid soccer players). I had my eldest son Diego at a very young age and remember the birth as if it were yesterday. I was in labour from the Monday and he was finally born naturally by a midwife on the Wednesday morning at a state hospital. It was a long, hard, tedious labour and I had no pain relief at all. My daughter Stephani’s birth was a little easier, I

went into labour at 2pm and she was born 8pm.She was born naturally in a state hospital I was working in at the time and I was surrounded by medical students as my gynaecologist who was a professor at the time, happened to be doing rounds when I went into labour.

LEFT TO RIGHT: HUSBAND DALE, TRISTAN (9), MY ADOPTED NIECE SIMONNE IN THE MIDDLE, ELDEST

SON DIEGO, DAUGHTER STEPHANI & ME (GISELLE).

My youngest Tristan was born on Wednesday 10th November. I woke up at about six, getting ready for work when I started getting contractions. I remember being a little annoyed because he was due Sunday 14th November and I was going to work till Friday the 12th. His birth was in a private hospital and I was in labour for about 8hours. I was present at the birth of my niece Simonne and I was the first one to see her as her mum who was an epileptic had just had a seizure and was still in an unconscious state. I was there and I guess it was as fate would have it that I would ultimately be her carer having been the first person to welcome her into the world. I still think about this special moment. Each birthing experience was very different but the overwelhming feeling of pride, joy and happiness was all the same. I remained relatively healthy throughout all my pregnancies having put on 9kgs in my first pregnancy, 12kg in second and 14kg in my third. My motto has always been EVERYTHING IN MODERATION. I’ve literally eaten and drunk everything (except alcohol of course) during my pregnancies but within moderation therefore

remaining relatively healthy throughout. I breastfed my first for nine months, the second for about four months and the youngest for about two months. (This was only because I fell ill and was advised to wean him off the breast). I strongly recommend breastfeeding as not only is it filled with all the necessary nutrients, it’s just such magical moments when baby looks into your eyes while breastfeeding. Pregnancy is a miraculous journey towards the birth of the most wonderful experience and the ultimate destiny is the beautiful privilege of motherhood. Giselle runs a business called TLC Imaging, which is a mobile 3D/4D pregnancy ultrasound service bringing the beautiful baby bonding experience into the comfort of your home where all can share in the experience. It’s an elective, non diagnostic service so a Dr.’s referral is not required and therefore no medicare rebate. The ultrasound is generally done after the 20 week scan as this is not a diagnostic procedure. In obstetric ultrasound I am constantly reminded of the overwhelming joy I felt as an expectant mom and I strive to bring that heartfelt joy and happiness to the expectant parents and create memories to last a lifetime.

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CO PING W I T H R EJ ECT I O N

HO W T O C O P E W IT H Y O U R CHI L D N OT RE CE I V I NG A N IN V IT E T O A PA RT Y

Parties can provide children with valuable opportunities for developing their social skills and improving their confidence and sense of independence. They can, however, also pose ethical dilemmas with regards to who receives an invite and who doesn’t. Children who miss out on an invite may understandably feel hurt and ostracized. While some schools suggest that the whole class be invited to a child’s party, this may not always be practical for parents to implement, particularly if class sizes are large. If smaller gatherings are the preferred option, there are ways to minimize hurt feelings amongst uninvited children and also deal with rejection if your child is one of the uninvited class members. TIPS FOR THOSE HOSTING

While it is OK for your child not to invite the entire class, if they only wish to exclude one or two people, then encourage them to imagine how this would feel if it were them. Putting themselves in someone else’s shoes will allow them to develop a greater sense of empathy for and understanding of others. For smaller gatherings, suggest that your child does not discuss the party at school to prevent hurting the feelings of children not

attending the party. Posting invites to guests rather than handing out invites at school may be a more sensitive option. Some teachers may even prefer to discreetly place invites in bags or diaries. It might be worth discussing with your child what to say if an uninvited child asks about the party. An example could be, “I could only invite a small group of children”. Mentioning to other parents that it is only a small gathering may also encourage them to speak to their own children about being sensitive to other people’s feelings. DEALING WITH REJECTION

Rejection isn’t all bad. In fact, it’s an experience that we will all encounter at some point in our lives, so learning how to deal with it early can provide valuable skills for managing upsetting events later in life. Knowing how to deal with rejection can contribute to greater resilience, conscientiousness and empathy in children. If your child is not invited to a party, they may feel sad, hurt, unlikable, confused, angry, and not part of the group. These feelings are normal and can provide parents with an opportunity to educate children on how best to manage them. If a child is upset, let them express themselves fully by

listening to them with minimal interruptions. Label their emotions and suggest appropriate ways for your child to deal with them, for instance, “I can see you’re sad, would you like to read a book or listen to music”. It may be necessary to suggest alternatives if your child is responding inappropriately, for instance, “I know you’re angry but it’s not OK to tease your sister. Why don’t you go and jump on the trampoline”. If your child is one of very few that have not been invited to a party, they may feel particularly upset. Provide them with attention, understanding and empathy and refrain from saying nasty things about the child and parent who did not invite them. Anger tends not to be a helpful response in the long-term. Rather, acceptance is the aim. Once a child has had time to calm down, it may be helpful to discuss themes of friendship, family values, kindness, and etiquette. Through doing this, your child will have a better understanding of what makes a good friend and how their family operates in terms of hosting events. DR EMILY HILL CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

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- MARCH 2014

W H A T ’S I N A FOOD? REA D ING THE LAB EL

At last count, there were 1760 different packaged foods in our supermarkets. How do we know what exactly is in them and what impact they can have on the health and well being of growing bodies? It is a far cry from the days when most food was prepared in the home and parents knew exactly what they were putting in their children’s mouths. A certain well known Australian dietitian has been known to say that if a product has more than four ingredients, it’s best to put it back on the shelf. This may not be a bad rule of thumb. There are many reasons why parents may wish to better understand what ingredients are in the packaged foods they provide for their children. Children’s bodies - their brains, bones, hearts, skin, muscles, livers etc. - are built from the food they eat. We know that nutritional intake from conception to age 2 years is particularly important for building healthy bodies and for healthy cognitive development, but this does not detract from the importance of the foods chosen for the growth and development of children of any age. Another important consideration, for some parents, is adverse food reactions, experienced by a growing number of children in our community. It is imperative to first ensure accurate identification and diagnosis of such food reactions, in order to avoid unnecessary food restrictions in children of growing age, but once that is done, parents, and older children, need to know, without a doubt, what ingredients are contained in packaged foods. This is where an understanding of food labelling is a great help. For general health and wellbeing, the most helpful

& K

parts to the food label are the nutrient analysis panel and the food ingredient list. Together, these can give us a good picture of both the nutritional content of the food and the origin of these nutrients.

When looking at the nutrient analysis panel, it is best to focus on the nutrient column, usually on the left, and the quantity of nutrients/100g food column, usually on the right. The “ingredient list” lists the ingredients, from that present in the greatest amount, in descending order. This is a great place to check the origin of, for example, suspiciously high sugar levels in a food. Does the “quantity of sugar/100g food” refer to added sugar alone or is some of that sugar derived from some milk or fruit or other equally healthy ingredient in that food? This is an important distinction. Beware, too, the sugar that is added in different forms in the one food (e.g. “honey”, “glucose”, “sugar”) allowing these forms of sugar to be listed some way down the ingredient list, rather than as one large ingredient at the top of the list. Check the fat content (especially saturated fat), the fibre content, the sodium (salt) content and the sugar content. There are many resources developed to assist the consumer with reading and understanding food labels, such as those found at http://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/eating-well/howunderstand-food-labels/food-labels-what-look. By law, in Australia, common food allergens in food must be included on the food label. Despite this regulation, some labels may not comply, particularly if the product comes from overseas, or some ingredients may be listed under a variety of names which are not so obvious, e.g. a milk product may

be referred to as “casein”. Downloadable allergen cards containing alternate words for allergens and helpful hints are available for peanut, tree nuts, milk, egg, fish, shellfish, wheat, sesame and soy from http://www.allergyfacts.org.au/living-with-therisk/allergen-specifics and bookmark size cards are also available from their online shop. As well, dietitians can assist with education in identifying food allergens.

Precautionary Allergen Statements (PAS) on food packaging, convey risk of unintentional allergen inclusion due to cross contamination, but they are voluntary, unregulated and included at the discretion of the food manufacturer. Hence they may not appear on the food label, even when there is a risk of cross contamination. In Australia, 95% snack food products include PAS. Probably the best and most practical way to find out what is in the packaged foods you provide for your children is to attend a “Kids’ Snacks Supermarket Tour”. The dietitian in the Child Health and Development Team at Bellarine Community Health runs these tours for interested parents. Phone 5251 2291 to register your interest for 2014. The Child Health and Development Team at Bellarine Community Health, is comprised of allied health professionals providing services for all children aged 0-12 years. These services are free to children listed as dependents on a health care card or pension card. For appointments and enquiries, phone 5258 0812. HILARY HOEVENAARS - DIETITIAN

BELLARINE COMMUNITY HEALTH LTD.

.. .. & ..

! E T A D E H T SAVE

FREE 4pm – 8pm ENTRY Friday 14th March Riverview. Tce Belmont ..

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 9

SERENDIP SANCTUARY

A GREAT PLACE FOR KIDS Serendip Sanctuary is located around 20km north east of Geelong, just off the M1 Freeway, near the town of Lara. It’s been described as a wildlife oasis in the Western Volcanic Plain, with a wide variety of native birds and mammals. A visit to the sanctuary is a learning experience for all ages and one you will never forget. Serendip is the perfect place to learn about and get up close to the native wildlife of Victoria’s Western Plains. It has over 150 species of native birds such as the Bush Stone-curlew, Brolga and Freckled Duck and is home to native animals like the Eastern Barred Bandicoot, one of Victoria’s most endangered creatures. Birds can be seen up close from bird hides and in aviaries; preening, feeding, incubating their eggs and rearing chicks. There are a number of short walks around Serendip that provide close encounters with wildlife. On the Wildlife Walk you might see Emus and Eastern Grey Kangaroos grazing, Brolgas trumpeting, Whistling Kites soaring overhead and Yellow-billed Spoonbills wading in shallow water.

facilities; smooth tracks for prams, open space for play, free barbecues, picnic tables under shelter and baby changing facilities. OTHER FUN ACTIVITIES ARE:

• Seeing how many of Serendip’s 150 plus bird species you can spot such as the Whistling Kite, Bush Stone-curlew and Tawny Frogmouth. •

Visiting Serendip’s Ponding Site and catching water bugs using dip nets. If you’re lucky you may even catch a fish. You can look at the bugs’ cool features using magnifying glasses.

• Testing your bouncing skills against the resident kangaroos at the long jump pit. • Serendip is also an excellent place to hold a children’s birthday party.

You may be even lucky enough to see one of the five young Spotted-tail Quolls which were born at the sanctuary late last year. Quolls are endangered native creatures that are rarely seen in the wild as they mainly hunt at night.

Serendip Sanctuary also offers a Junior Ranger program for children aged 5-12 during school holidays. The activities are free and include a Behind the Scenes tour, Mini Beast Discovery and Bush Detective. Kids can also do some DIY Junior Ranger activities by visiting the website www.juniorrangers.com.au/get-involved/diy/ and printing off Wildlife Detective – how to unravel some of the secrets of the bush, and Discovering Trees – get to know our trees.

Serendip is a great venue for families as children can take part in hands-on activities such as ponding with nets. The park also has excellent

Serendip is more than just an animal sanctuary. It has a curriculum-based education program for students from Prep to Year 12. This provides

unique hands on opportunities to learn about the wetlands and grassy woodlands of the Western Volcanic Plains and their native birds and animals. Bookings are essential for the school holiday Junior Ranger programs, and can be made on 13 1963 or at www.juniorrangers.com.au. SERENDIP’S NEXT HOLIDAY PROGRAM IS

DURING THE EASTER HOLIDAYS. BOOK EARLY AS IT IS USUALLY THE FIRST PARK TO BE BOOKED OUT.

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24TH - 30TH MARCH 2014

NATIONAL PLAYGROUP WEEK

THE THEME FOR THIS YEAR IS “MORE THAN PLAY” National Playgroup Week is a celebration of the benefits of Playgroups within our community. It aims to increase the Playgroup profile and bring families together. National Playgroup Week will be full of fun, laughter and excitement and will help to raise awareness of the importance of playgroups and the role they play in encouraging children’s early development, building social support for parents, and fostering community connections between individuals, families and local services. Geelong will celebrate National Playgroup Week with two exciting FREE events. On Monday 24th March from 10.00am – 12.00pm all local parents, carers, and playgroups across Geelong are invited to join in the festivities at Steampacket Gardens. They will have the chance to participate in the fun, interactive activities including Carousel rides, animal farm, face painting and music workshops, storytelling,

roving entertainment, physical activities, pop up creative play. Playgroup Victoria will be in attendance with their mobile playbus and giveaways. Playgroup in the Park will take place at the Geelong Playspace near the Botanic Gardens, on Wednesday 26th March from 10.00am – 12.00pm. Families with preschool children are invited to come along and enjoy a morning of fun and entertainment. Families can participate in art and craft activities, a baby play area, music and puppet sessions, active play display, face painting and the ever popular animal farm. Please note this event will be cancelled in the case of heavy rain. Both these events are free to the community and there is no need to book. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON EITHER

EVENT PLEASE CONTACT SUE ELLIS -

52724781 OR SELLIS@GEELONGCITY.VIC. GOV.AU

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 11

PRIMARY SCHOOL

SOUTH GEELONG PRIMARY SCHOOL

DESCRIBE THE SCHOOL’S SPORT PROGRAM:

The school sports program is designed to develop healthy bodies and minds through active participation and enjoyment in physical activity, games and sport. In addition to weekly physical education classes and senior sports, students participate in: School Cross Country and Athletic Sports Carnivals, Inter School Sports and Gymnastics & Swimming Programs

DESCRIBE THE SCHOOL’S PERFORMING ARTS PROGRAM

Comprehensive developmental music program operates for all year levels to promote a love for music and movement. Music and performance opportunities are fostered through the School Choir group, music recitals, school concert and dance evenings. The school also provides an instrumental program, including Marimba and Recorder bands.

DESCRIBE THE SCHOOL’S DRAMA/ARTS PROGRAM:

Creativity, curiosity and expression are fostered through the schools arts program which is evident as soon as you enter our school, with students artwork featuring in the playground and learning spaces throughout the school. Students participate in a creative and inspirational arts program at all year levels with many young artists also showcasing their artwork beyond the local community: Geelong Art Gallery, ZART Art Exhibition, Geelong Show and community celebrations such as Barwon Grange and Austin Homes.

DESCRIBE THE SCHOOL’S ITC PROGRAM:

The ICT is implemented across the school with digital access to modern technologies available in all learning spaces so students learn how to use technology to develop and represent their thinking visually and as a tool for designing and creating information. Students learn how to respectfully use online environments and tools to research, communicate and share information and knowledge.

DOES THE SCHOOL HAVE THE STUDENTS LAPTOP PROGRAM?

Students in Years 5&6 have a one to one device and Prep – Year 4 students access classroom laptops or ipads.

WHAT KIND OF CAMPS AND OUTDOOR EDUCATION PROGRAMS ARE OFFERED? · · · · · ·

Year 4: Coastal Adventure Camp Year 5/6: Environmental Adventure Camp Environmental Sustainability Programs Green Thumbs Gardening Club: From the Garden to the Table Water Wise School & Energy Monitors Free Fruit Friday

WHAT IS THE SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY?

As a school community we create an environment where everyone is encouraged to strive for excellence in an atmosphere of confidence, enjoyment and active participation.

WE AIM TO:

· Ensure quality teaching and innovation through professional learning, educational feedback, teamwork, collegiate support and communication · Respect the unique and individual strengths, talents and needs of every child. · Welcome community involvement through an open, supportive and consultative environment where contributions are valued. · Promote a positive working and learning environment where contributions are recognised and celebrated.

SO UT H GE EL ON G PR IM AR Y SC HO OL

CO M M UN IT Y CA RN IV AL

FR ID AY 14 TH MA RC H, 4P M- 8P M ds and We welcome everyone including previous families, frien School neighbours to join us at the South Geelong Primary to meet one Community Carnival. New families say it’s a great way another, make new friends and have lots of fun. year and our This community event is our major fundraiser for the local businesses impressive team of parents, grandparents, staff and ronment for are working together to provide the best learning envi much needed every child. The funds from this event will be used for library resources. YOU CAN …… ….. stalls and · Enjoy the scrumptious treats from a range of food homemade treats. Chair-o-plane, · Experience the thrill of the Pacer Karts, Zap Zone, the Magic Man. Giant Slide, Jumping Castle and be dazzled by Dan aim at the · Meet and pat the baby animals, ride a Pony or take Alley. Teacher Splash and try your luck at the Side Show and Silent · Win fabulous spinning wheel prizes or bid at the Loud Auctions. r local · Get up and dance with ‘Soul Sister Swing’ and othe musicians.

LEANNE DOWLING - PRINCIPAL

BLOG ABOUT IT

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MOTHER IDOLS

Do you have one?

I bet you do. Those other mother’s that you adore. You love their philosophy. Their manner. Their calm on the outside but the kids are driving me bonkers on the inside just like you, state. Their kids. I have a few. Actually I know lots and lots of mothers, but I only have a few idols. Some I know really well, others I admire from afar and wonder if they ever have those moments in their own houses when one kid is lying on the table, the other is refusing to eat the dinner you didn’t want to, but bothered to cook, and then the first one whips out a hand and sends a glass smashing over the floor and just for a minute you want to throw your own rip snorter of a tantrum and lie on the floor crying and kicking, but unlike you, they don’t. I wonder if the positive, but not gushy, (gushy makes me want to vomit up the coffee I threw down on an empty stomach because breakfast for three is just pushing the envelope too far some mornings), talk takes place all the time. I wonder if that stern voice that means business, but is not being launched at a high pitched roar across the dinner table (hmmm, food is the defining factor in my house it seems), is always present. I wonder if they feel overwhelmed and frustrated and just ripped off about the rediculous myth of motherhood that Kleenex are portraying, and cry sometimes. If they did, I think I would like them even more. I know mothers who know which battles to fight, but never have to make that choice in public, because they were smart enough to pick the right ones at home first. I love them. I want to be them. I’m trying very hard. My other mother idols are those who belong to the sisterhood, and let you belong too, no matter what. They don’t judge, or offer advice, or critique. They agree and they share their own horror stories of the evening where the bath got pooed in, the carpet got pooed on and the couch scored a wipe down too, and they weren’t even at home. And they laugh about it. Because hey what else can you do. My other mother idols are those who have crazy kids and know their limits. The ones who say, yeah sorry but that restaurant at 6.30 with my kids, is not going to end well for anyone, come to my place at 4pm instead. Or, yes I love the sound of a plane ride, then a car ride, then a boat ride and 4 weeks on an exotic island, but I might jump out of the moving car on the way to the airport before we even get to that ‘holiday’ destination, so maybe we will wait 5 years before I even consider that. And you know the other mother idol I love. The one that can ask for help. Who calls out. Who stands on the roof tops shouting “I have PND, get me some drugs.” Who says, this sucks, I need a break, let me have your kids for a bit, and I’ll have yours. The mother who lets people who are offering to help her, and ask those who are not to do their bit helping out the family. You are the mother’s that I idolise and I thank you deeply for taking me along for the ride. But please, tap me on the shoulder if you see me staring for too long, there is probably a dinner on the floor I have to clean up anyway. LAURA GORDON

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 13

A WORTHY JOB, INDEED As a graphic designer Dallas Cronwright worked continuous deadlines and people relied on her to get the job done. With the arrival of triplets, things changed. She was relied on as a mum and had to leave the workforce due to the exorbitant cost of childcare in this country. This is her story... Dallas Cronwright is a creative professional – a qualified graphic designer and personal trainer with years of publishing experience. Before children, Dallas was in charge of designing and laying out full publications for niche magazines and corporations. She was also involved in many advertising campaigns. Dallas had continuous deadlines and was happy. “I enjoyed it so much, you feel alive when you have something to work towards and when you see that final product,” she said. Almost six years ago Dallas fell pregnant and had triplets – two boys and a girl. At the time Dallas and her husband were living in South Africa where childcare is more affordable than Australia and so returning to work was a viable option. “I started working half days because in South Africa childcare is really cheap, you can get anyone to look after your kids and it’s not as expensive as Australia.” It wasn’t until Dallas and her husband immigrated to Australia to live and work that they realised the cost of putting triplets into childcare here was so expensive, it actually wasn’t possible. With the triplets about to turn three, the decision was made that Dallas wouldn’t work until they started school. Whilst raising triplets is a full time job alone – an admirable and essential one at that – Dallas felt the added pressure of not contributing financially. “…After a year (of not working) the guilt started

setting in. Everything costs money and I was thinking ‘I’m not earning anything and my husband’s doing all the work’,” she said.

The pressure wasn’t coming from her husband (who she said has “always been supportive”); it was coming from within herself. “When you haven’t worked for someone or felt productive within yourself you start feeling a little bit worthless and you think ‘is this all I’m amounting to?’” In the lead up to the triplets starting school this year, Dallas experienced “incredible depression” which lasted until she made the decision to take proactive steps towards rejoining the workforce. Dallas started a web design course, “because everything is web-based now…I need to be able to design a website because I can do everything else.” With the children in school and her days back, Dallas still feels pressure to find work as soon as possible. “With my knowledge I could be earning enough money to pay our rent. That’s what’s making me feel the guilt. Every month I don’t earn, I feel like it’s going to take us that much longer to get our dream house,” she said. Being enrolled in a course is a step in right direction for Dallas. “Just the fact I’ve started doing this course has really made a huge difference. I feel so much better like it’s a step towards a goal,” she said. Everyone experiences motherhood differently and not everyone feels financial guilt, but it’s just as much about feeling mentally stimulated and creatively fulfilled for those who have left the workforce to care for children. “As a mum you do get labelled a mum. You kind of lose a bit of yourself with motherhood and it’s not entirely a bad thing, but I think its important a mum has

something else besides her kids to challenge her brain and be creative,” Dallas said. For mothers battling feelings of worthlessness or guilt, here are some tips to help you through: • Recognise the important role you have raising children – it’s not easy and while you may not be contributing to your household financially, you are contributing to the future of our society and that certainly is an important job! • Keep your mind active – there are so many wonderful courses now and many can be done online. Start a blog or build something creatively from home. Being mentally productive will take the edge off the guilt. • Update your resume – give your resume a fresh look and make sure it’s up-to-date for when you want to apply for a job. • Exercise – make the time to move. Whether you enjoy walking, bike riding, swimming, yoga or any other form of movement, schedule time for yourself to be active. Make it part of your routine and avoid what Dallas calls “falling into a slump.” • Talk to your partner – voice your feelings and concerns to your partner. They need to know how you are feeling to help you through it and support you to move forward whether it is returning to study or work. • Set goals – a short and long-term goal for what you want to achieve. A short-term goal could be to complete a refresher course in your field to brush up on skills and a long-term goal could be to return to work X amount of days per week. We wish the triplets all the best at school this year and Dallas all the success in her course and a renewed career.

COURTNEY BUCHANAN

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 15

GREAT YOUNG

PERSON?

Everyone knows of a young person doing great things for our Community that should be recognised! Do you know an inspirational young person between 12 and 25 whose actions have had a positive impact on our community? Don’t HESITATE. Nominate them NOW for the 2014 Impetus Youth Awards. The Impetus Youth Awards aim to recognise and celebrate young people, workers, volunteers and corporate bodies who have made and/ or are currently making significant contributions in the areas of education, leadership, community work, sport, culture, arts, environment and youth development. The awards are open to young people aged between 12 and 25 years, who live, work, learn or play in the City of Greater Geelong. The award consists of 12 categories, ranging from an Inspiration Award to a Corporate Award. You can find more details on each category on the attached information sheet, or by visiting www. youthcan.vic.gov.au

KIDS EX PO

Greater Geelong Kids are holding their first expo at the Leisuretime Centre, Norlane, on Sunday 23 March . The Greater Geelong Kids Expo will be a celebration of Geelong’s child friendly services and businesses, with a day of great activities planned for the whole family to enjoy, including free children’s activities such as free face painting, jumping castles, activities, music and sports sessions. There will also be a range of food stalls, the Corio CFA fire truck and bbq, as well as information sessions and demonstrations from health and well-being professionals, support services and businesses, and a lovely range of items and services to purchase. The event is guaranteed to be a fun, educational and exciting day! The expo will interest anyone with children who would like to find anything and everything local for their kids to explore. Expo oganiser Stacey O’Keefe said families coming along to expo will be treated to having many of Geelong’s best children’s services and activities in the one place. “The expo will be a great day of entertainment for children and will also help link parents in with services and businesses which are in the community,” said O’Keefe. “There’s so much out there that parents

may not know about. The expo will expose them to many of the wonderful child orientated opportunities in Geelong, from chiropractic to dental care, car seat, fire safety and first aid, services and programs including school holiday programs, daycare, surfing, sport and music sessions, as well as information from local community groups including River’s Gift, Geelong Mums, Corio CFA and Geelong Police….” said O’Keefe. Tickets for the expo are $15 per family and include one free photo booth picture. The expo will be held at the Leisuretime Centre, Norlane, located just 6km from Geelong’s CBD. There is free parking available and the release of 500 GGK Blue enviro Local Bags of Goodness! If you cut out and bring along the GGK Expo advert from this magazine, you are entitled to $5 off one family entry! The Expo is proudly supported by Kids’ Voice - Geelong Region, The MadCap Cafe, Pioneer Family Chiropractic, Love Photos, All For Kids Party Hire, Bendigo Bank: Geelong My Community and Community Kids Geelong Early Education Centre.

$5 OFF y y entr l i m a f e on vert! d a s i h t with

$5 OFF ONE FAMILY ENTRY! WWW.GREATERGEELONGKIDS.COM.AU FOR TICKET SALES

KNOW A

GRE A TE R GEELO NG

PAGE 16 - MARCH 2014

RE AD T HE PL AY

HELPFUL INFORMATION

FOR PARENTS & CARERS

Young people experience many changes as they grow up. As a parent it can often be difficult to know the difference between normal behaviour, such as moodiness, irritability and withdrawal and an emerging mental health problem. Talking about sensitive issues and working together to find can be challenging, but it is important that if a young person develops a mental health problem, that they get help early.

a young person might be experiencing serious problems:

Mental health refers to a young person’s emotional and social wellbeing, and if this declines it can affect their feelings, thoughts and actions. They can experience difficulties in day to day life at school, work and within relationships.

FEELINGS – for example, unhappiness, depression, irritability, fear, anger, loss of pleasure

Mental health problems are common and usually are understandable reactions to personal and social issues. Generally they are not too severe or long lasting. However, when mental health problems last for long periods of time and severely affect someone’s everyday life, it may be that the problem is becoming an illness. Mental illness refers to a range of issues which may affect someone’s thoughts, feelings, actions and/or memory. These issues often last longer than mental health problems and cause more distress and disruption to life. Mental illness can occur at any age, but in particular, anxiety disorders and depression are quite common problems for young people. A mental illness usually develops slowly over time. Most parents know when something is really different, but here are some signs that suggest

• New, noticeable and persistent changes that last at least a few weeks. • Obvious and persistent changes in: BEHAVIOUR – for example, appetite, sleep, use of drugs or alcohol, avoiding school work, poor motivation, withdrawal from people

THINKING – for example, poor concentration, a drop in school performance, constant worrying, preoccupation with some thoughts, hearing or seeing things that are not there Most mental illnesses don’t have a single ‘cause’, but are more likely to be due to a combination of biological, social and individual factors. YOU CAN HELP WHEN A YOUNG PERSON HAS A MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEM:

• Keep communication open and don’t rush into judgements • Be available without being intrusive or ‘pushy’ • Spend time with the person. Take an interest in their activities, and encourage them to talk about what’s happening in their life • Take the person’s feelings seriously

K id s ’ V o ic e

ARE PROUD TO ANN OUNCE THAT WE ARE NOW S PONSORS OF

• Encourage and support friendships • Encourage activities that promote mental health, such as --exercise, good eating, regular sleep, and doing things the person enjoys • Give positive feedback -• Let the person know that you love them. They may not --always admit it, but this is likely to be very important to them • Let them know that there is lots of help available. They --will be able to talk to health professionals in private if this is what they prefer • Help find an appropriate service, such as a headspace centre (www.headspace.org.au), and support them in attending headspace BARWON

Barwon Medicare Local is the lead agency of a consortium approach to implement the headspace Barwon initiative. With the support of a multidisciplinary team of Allied Health staff, headspace Barwon provides quality primary health care for young people aged 12-25 years in the Geelong region to ensure their needs are met through holistic care in general health, sexual health, mental health and substance use issues.

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 17

I S DR I NK I NG R E A LL Y T H A T C O O L ? The legal drinking age is Australia is 18; even so there are always cases of underage drinking, which usually end in terrible accidents that could have been prevented. The number of under aged teens drinking alcohol is continuously increasing whether it is due to stress, peer pressure or by their own choice. More often than not it can and most likely will end in disaster! When you drink whether you are underage or not, your brain doesn’t process things properly. Things you would never normally do in your normal state of mind, suddenly become great ideas to make yourself seem braver than you usually are. Stupidity seems to be the major fall back when it comes to drinking, take this example: Joe (18) invites his friend Billy (16) to a party, Billy agrees but tells Joe he mustn’t drink because he would have to drive home later as Billy is only on his L-plates and must have a responsible licensed adult present. Joe is on P-plates so must be 0.00 to drive. Once at the party Joe convinces Billy to have an alcoholic beverage with some friends. After being at the party for an hour and a half Joe and his friends continue to drink and pressure billy into “keeping up”. As the time passes Billy has had about 6 alcoholic drinks without any reprieve. The host of the party, Ricky, throws Billy the keys and asks him to get some more drinks. After the friends encourage Billy to jump in the driver’s seat, Billy says yes and leaves the party thinking he is only a little drunk. (Even though it had only been an hour and a half, it is still enough time for the alcohol to take a large

effect on the way he thinks and behaves.) Billy recklessly pulls out of the drive way and speeds off down the street, the car is unsteady and it sways to either side of the road haphazardly, Billy takes a sharp turn down the next street and loses control of the car, his reflexes are slowed because of the alcohol, and thus, he misses his chance to rectify his situation, the car flies off the road and rolls over before hitting a tree, Billy’s dead before the car stops, smashing his head into the car, he isn’t found until morning. A situation like that could have been avoided if Billy hadn’t drunk any alcohol, he could have decided not to go to the party all together but a

night of fun isn’t something he’d want to miss out on, right? Drinking recreationally isn’t a bad thing but going over board like some people do lead to accidents like Billy’s, under age teens get alcohol by asking their older friends or even random people off the street, it’s far too easy for teenagers below 18 to get alcohol, and though no one can ever get rid of the stupid teens who think it’s cool to get blind drunk with friends and people they hardly know, they can make it just that little bit harder by NOT buying them the alcohol, no matter how much money the kid has. SHANNON DENNING

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 19

E D U C A T IO N

SEA CHANGE MUMS

Many of us are fairly new to this beautiful region, having made the decision to swap city life for coastal living. You may have experienced friends and family turning green with envy, when you informed them of the move. The reality is, for many of us, it can be an enormous transition to make, which doesn’t come without its difficulties. It’s easy to be swept up in the romantic notions of living by the sea. The reality is that everyday life still goes on. Many of us still need to find employment, houses need to be cleaned, meals prepared, clothes washed, dogs walked, bills paid, and look after small children and babies. It can be an isolating experience for many...and support can often seem a million miles away. Some Survival Tips • Make an effort to meet your neighbours. You may develop some great new friendships, and it can be great comfort to have contacts close by, in case of unexpected emergencies. • Invite friends and family to visit. You may find that although you may feel as though you are not seeing them as much as you used to, aim to enjoy quality time with them, even having them stay if you can. • Speak to your local Council or Maternal and Child Health Nurse about joining groups that have been specifically developed for new parents to the region. • Follow local community media sites, and join local mums / business women groups. You will find that they often organise catch ups and events that you can attend. • If you are looking for work, ensure you have a LinkedIn profile. Update your details and location, and follow local companies for job opportunities. • Update your own social media sites, and let people know where you are living. A friend can often introduce you to another friend

who has also moved to your town. • Visit your home town whenever you can. For most of us, it really is just over an hour in the car! • Organise to meet friends half way. For those of you from Melbourne, Werribee Zoo can be a great half way mark to meet up with friends and family. • Try to make the most of your environment. Take the kids to the beach...walk/run alone along the coast...and breathe it all in! Remember why you decided to make that sea change...and savour those beautiful moments watching your children, and yourself, flourish in such a magical environment. JEMMA JAMES OF HICKORY HR SOLUTIONS WWW.HICKORYHR.COM.AU

PAGE 20 - MARCH 2014

NIGHTJAR MARKET G J O H N S O N ’S P A R K - G EE L O N

PEOPLE OF GEELONG ENJOYED A NICE NIGHT OUT IN JOHNSON’S PART AT THE NIGHTJAR MARKET ON THE 14TH FEBRUARY. THE NIGHT INCLUDED LOTS OF FUN ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, MARKET STALLS AND DELICIOUS FOOD.

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 21

a recent trip to Queenstown (the adrenalin capital of the world), mountain biking. They are also waterproof, so you can even record that great barrel you caught in the surf.

P RO

WON DE RF UL

WORLD OF W EB

TE CH NO LO GY

What’s the go with GoPro? Is this another fantastic marketing campaign? Maybe they have the same advertising team that helped promote Apple to the world. I will never forget walking past an Apple store in central London and being fascinated by the amount of people gathering around the Apple products. Of course I had to go and see what all of the fuss was about, and hence adding to the growing population - I stopped counting the number of people at 200. GoPro seems to be heading in similar direction, albeit on a smaller scale. For anyone that has not heard of these, a GoPro is basically a camera that you strap to your head (or helmet) to video those great adventures such as hang-gliding and, as witnessed on

Youtube is currently exploding with videos recorded with GoPros. But probably the most famous footage from Felix Baugmartner who had five GoPro’s strapped to him when he completed the longest parachute jump in history (36,402.6 metres). I suggest heading to the GoPro’s official website (www.gopro. com) to view the extraordinary images. There should be a disclaimer inserted here to say that I am not in any way paid to promote GoPro. In fact I am a possible advocate against obtaining one. My three children are all obsessed with them and would love one. However, what I don’t want is to have to sit through hours of footage of my son’s cricket game immediately after patiently sitting through the live event! Their slogan is ‘Be a Hero’. I think it should be changed to ‘Be a Hero, But be Careful’. A search on Google for GoPro Accidents immediately comes up with 11 million responses. People including children might be more inclined to take risks when using a GoPro. And generally the cameras are used for those activities that are a little more

extreme; however I did happen to find quite a bit of footage of knitting – go figure! GoPros start at around $250 and usually come with appropriate software for downloading and basic editing tools. There are even some funky templates with music, slow motion effects that are available on the GoPro website. Then of course there are the accessories available for the upsell, such as helmet straps, lens protectors and anti-fog elements. Take into account the cost you already outlay for the dirt bike or horse, this is an extra expense that might just not be justified. There is of course the cheap option of strapping the old VCR recorder to your helmet with a bit of electrical tape. Now that is footage I would love to see – just imagine the look on people’s faces when they can see you skiing down a slope with an indiscrete camera protruding from your head. Some of the big stores around Geelong offer cheaper alternatives that might just do the job. Unfortunately those marketing gurus are playing with our children’s minds again, where they think that a GoPro is the only option. I look forward to seeing some of your great Funniest Home Video moments shortly, but please, if you are going to ‘Be a Hero, be a Safe Hero. S HEL L EY GR O S S D IR EC T O R AT W O N D ER F U L W EBS IT ES W W W .W O N D ER F U L W EBS IT ES .C O M .AU

PAGE 22 - MARCH 2014

LITTLE KICKERS SOCCER

SPO

LITTLE KICKERS IS A FUN AND

young age are substantially more likely to remain active throughout their adolescence and into adulthood.

only makes our job the more enjoyable!” - Coach Robbie & Coach Marissa

SOCCER- PLAY NOT PUSH!

Invaluable social skills like listening, sharing, taking turns and teamwork are conscientiously woven into an involving programme that places as much emphasis on simple learning concepts like colours and numbers as it does on fine-tuning a child’s basic balance, agility and coordination.

“Just want to thank you for the wonderful Little Kickers program which our 3 1/2 year old son, Adam, attends every Saturday morning.

IMAGINATIVE INTRODUCTION TO At Little Kickers we focus very much on fun - a national network of informal yet professionally run training classes where enthusiastic boys & girls, aged 18 months to 7 years, are given a helping hand to stand on their own two feet in a friendly and pressure free environment. The goal of Little Kickers is to use soccer as a fun forum to instil our growing squad with a little extra confidence, co-ordination, control and sense of camaraderie; which we feel will stand them in very good stead for the future. The Little Kickers program has been developed to engage children through fun and creative play, it also promotes the development of a wide range of early learning skills. The classes have been designed so that the children, while receiving a sound basic instruction in soccer from qualified coaches, are also provided with a fun positive introduction to sport. It has been proven that children who enjoy organised physical activity from a

Children’s imaginations are read as they take part in games where they must outwit the bears to capture the fruit, go on train journeys to the seaside, sail on pirate ships, defend castles and protect their soccer balls from shark-infested seas - all of which involve them running about, stretching, jumping and getting hot and sweaty! SUCCESS STORY

“Adam started with Little Kickers as a shy 3 1/2 year old not wanting to leave his parents side- 4 weeks into the programme and Adams confidence grew more and more as each session passed. He is now a confident Little Kicker who loves kicking penalties and giving high 5’s! Seeing how far Adam has come within our programme

Adam has come a long way since the first session which he attended more than 3 months ago. I can remember him being quite shy and without the confidence to participate in each of the activities without me following closely behind. Adams increased confidence has even transcended Little Kickers, with a noticeable behavioural improvement in group activities such as kinder and general play with groups of other children. Once again, thank-you Coach Robbie and Coach Marissa for hosting such a wonderful program which our son so thoroughly enjoys. The Little Kickers program is great, but it is the amazing enthusiasm with which you run the sessions which makes all the difference.” PROUD PARENTS OF ADAM

ROBERT & SUZI

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 23

SPOR

MELBOURNE VICTORY PAY A VISIT

TO HOLY FAMILY PRIMARY SCHOOL

Melbourne Victory Football Club spent a few days working with Holy Family Primary School engaging with their students, creating meaningful relationships, sharing skills and team practices with the junior footballers. The focus of the day was to integrate all the students, to participate and be part of the Melbourne Victory Football Club family with a huge emphasis on participation and enjoyment while at the same time setting aside ability and background differences.

PAGE 24 - MARCH 2014

MU S I C A R TS &

MUSICAL MUMS BRING MINI MAESTROS TO GEELONG! Mini Maestros, the popular Australian music education program for babies and pre-schoolers, will commence classes in Geelong in March 2014. Liz Davis and Kate Rice are busy establishing the new franchise and are looking forward to sharing all the benefits the program has to offer. “We love music and know that children love music too.”

lan (3 years From Left: Lach

a (14 months), old), Kate Rice, Av (13 months) Liz Davis and Zoe FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT LIZ & KATE ON 0424 047 822 OR MM.GEELONG@ MINIMAESTROS.COM.AU WEBSITE: WWW.MINIMAESTROS.COM.AU

The Mini Maestros music program has been teaching babies and pre-school age children for almost 30 years now and is just as popular with adults as it is with children. Liz, who also owns and operates Mini Maestros Brunswick/ Moonee Ponds, says, “The classes are a special time for parents and carers to have with their little ones. For many, it’s the highlight of their week. I find it so rewarding to share in the experiences children have through their exploration of music.” Over the years, Liz has studied piano and ballet and pursued singing and drama through musicals. In 2010 she set up her first Mini Maestros franchise and has since taken many students through the highly respected program. Kate learned classical piano from age 7 and went on to study a range of musical styles before becoming a qualified primary school teacher specialising in drama.

She says, “Music is such a powerful learning medium. Being actively involved in a structured music education program enhances development in all areas of learning such as speech, reading and listening, as well as cognitive and motor skills. Although Mini Maestros is an educational program, it is based on the philosophy of ‘learning through play’, so children have fun as they learn.” Both Liz and Kate have small children and say they were looking for a way to balance being actively involved mums and having a rewarding and interesting work life. “Running Mini Maestros Geelong will offer us this balance. Going into partnership together provides us with the opportunity to combine what we love, music and working with children, whilst still allowing us time to be mums.” Mini Maestros Geelong is offering a 3 week introductory term starting Monday 17th March. Classes will be held in Belmont, Geelong West, Grovedale and Highton. Look out for Mini Maestros demonstration sessions at the Greater Geelong Kids Expo (23rd March) and the Geelong Celebrates National Playgroup Week event (24th March). Liz and Kate also offer free demonstration classes to early learning centres, playgroups and mothers’ groups.

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 25

M USI C AR TS &

GUY PERKINS HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU STARTED

WHAT PROBLEMS ARE THERE WITH BEING

I was about 11 or 12 years old.

Restrictions on where you can play and what you can do. Getting to/from and into places is difficult.

PLAYING/SINGING?

WHAT INSTRUMENT/S DO YOU PLAY?

I can play Guitar, Drums and Piano, as well as sing.

AN UNDERAGE MUSO?

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCES?

HOW HAS YOUR SCHOOL BACKED YOU UP

Jack Johnson - that pretty much sums it up.

VET Music has been good!

Acoustic!

WITH YOUR MUSIC?

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC?

IS MUSIC YOUR CAREER OR DO YOU HAVE

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE VENUES THAT YOU

Music is my career - both performing and recording

Beav’s Bar (Geelong), Saints & Sailors (Portarlington), The Heads (Barwon Heads), Cobram Hotel (NSW), Queenscliff Music Festival 2013, Point Lonsdale Hall (along side BONJAH & more) Anglesea Music Festival, Aireys Inlet and more.

ANOTHER CAREER ON THE SIDE?

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE LIVE MUSIC SCENE IN GEELONG?

I think the Geelong music scene is pretty decent - there are plenty of good venues, nice musicians and good music. There is nothing bad!

HAVE PERFORMED AT?

CONTACT?

FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/GuyPerkinsMusic

PAGE 26 - MARCH 2014

GEELONG TAKES

BIG STEPS FOR LITTLE PEOPLE

The Geelong community will lace up its walking shoes for the annual Step Out for Bravehearts walkathon on Sunday March 23 to raise money to educate and protect Australian children. Launched last year, the event (formerly known as the Geelong Walkathon) attracted hundreds of local children, families, teachers, businesses and supporters of child protection who took part in the 2.3 kilometre walk around the picturesque botanical gardens. Established and run by the Bravehearts Geelong Committee (made up of passionate volunteers), the event raised $7,000 which helped fund Bravehearts acclaimed personal safety program – Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure show – educating kids in childcare centres and lower primary school children in the Geelong region. Bravehearts Geelong Committee Chair Brian Bull, expects Step Out for Bravehearts to be bigger and better in 2014 with a slate of fun-filled family activities for the kids, including face painting, a jumping castle, a reptile display and live music. “The Geelong Committee is dedicated to raising funds to help Bravehearts continue the delivery of its vital services to Australia’s most vulnerable members – our kids,” said Mr Bull. “Step Out for Bravehearts is a great opportunity for the Geelong community who share Bravehearts vision to make Australia the safest place in the world to raise a

child to come together, enjoy a day of fun and laughs and give back to a great cause.” Bravehearts Founder and Executive Director, Hetty Johnston praised the Geelong Committee for its amazing dedication to keep kids safe. “Committees are an integral part of our organisation that works tirelessly to raise funds and awareness and without their ongoing support and dedication we wouldn’t be able to reach as many children,” said Ms Johnston. “Please get along and join the Geelong committee as every small step is a big step for child protection.” Bravehearts has operated in Geelong since 2012 with an education team that has now reached 11,000 Geelong children. Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure show is a 40-minute live production tailored for children aged three to eight that effectively teaches strategies and skills to stay safe in a range of situations from sexual assault to bullying. Step Out for Bravehearts will take place on Sunday March 23, registration opening at 8:30am and the race commencing at 10:00am at the Eastern Gardens Rotunda, Eastern Park Court. Following the 2.3 kilometre walk, participants are encouraged to join Ditto the Bravehearts lion cub mascot for refreshments and activities. Entry is $10 per person with proceeds donated to Geelong children. Registrations open Monday 17

February at www.bravehearts.org.au or for more information contact event manager Peter Donald on 0419 306 909. ABOUT BRAVEHEARTS

Research shows one in five Australian children will be sexually assaulted in some way before their 18th birthday. Bravehearts aims to half this number by 2020 and achieve its vision of making Australia the safest place in the world to raise a child. To achieve this Bravehearts depends on business, government and community support. This will ensure continued delivery of its school-based prevention programs as well as training, counselling, support and advocacy for survivors. It will also allow continued research and important legislative reform agenda. It is only through increasing general awareness, increasing skills and capacity building for those working and living with children, preventative strategies, education and strong policies and legislation that Bravehearts can accomplish its mission - to stop child sexual assault in society. Bravehearts specialist services are instrumental in preventing the sexual assault of Australian children and giving hope and healing to the most vulnerable and precious members of our community. MEDIA CONTACT - JENNA RATHBONE 07

5552 3009 OR 0415 481 783

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 27

CRAFTS

& C O O K IN G

JELLY BOATS MET HOD 1. Cut the oranges in half and scoop out the insides.

2. Prepare the jelly, using less water to make sure the jelly

sets a little firmer which make it easier to slice. You can use one colour jelly or as many as you like.

4. Pour the jelly into the orange cups to the very top and

JELLY CRYS TALS

place them in the fridge.

5. Leave to set.

WATER (HOT & COLD)

6. When they are ready, use a sharp knife to gentle cut the

PAPER

halves into quarters.

7. Leave in the fridge until you are ready to eat them.

T O O T H P IC K S

8. Cut out sails from your paper and attach to the jelly boats

with a toothpick.

IN G R E D IE N T S

ORANGES

3. Leave the jelly to cool before adding it to the orange cups.

*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.”

PAPER PARty BAGS Materials Required:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Natural Paper Bags with Handles Foam Alphabet Shapes Foam Flower Shapes Foam Bug Shapes PVA Glue

Instructions: 1. Prepare your workspace and lay your paper bag on a flat surface. 2. Now you can be as creative as you like! We decorated our party bag by spelling each child’s name using foam alphabet letters. 3. Then as a finishing touch, we simply glued on some flower and bug shapes. This is such a simple and fun activity. You can pre-decorate each bag and use as a lolly bag for each party guest. Or alternatively, children can decorate their own bag as a fun activity during the party. Have fun! *We recommend using CraftSmart PVA Glue for this project. *Products used in this project are available at Craft Direct. www.craftdirect.com.au Tel: 1300 354 240

PAGE 28 - MARCH 2014

W OND ER R

BE I N G Y OU, CH A N GI N G THE WORLD

J Palacio Randomhouse

Dr. Dain Heer - Quikmark Media

Calling all dreamers of the world! If you know doing something different is possible but never had the tools to do it before than this book is for you! Dr. Dain Heer started as a chiropractor in California, USA ten years ago. Dain Heer was seemingly successful and happy, however on the verge of suicide he came across Access Conciousness. A tool he used to expand, grow and initially begin his life. ‘Being You, Changing the World’ provides you with a set of practical tools which can change the way you perceive your life and truly lets you be you! Dr. Dain Heer travels all over the world to invite and inspire people to a more conciousness. “My own path to consciousness is on going, as is yours. I use these tools every day and I keep discovering what else is possible. If you’re willing, this book can guide you to being you.”

Wonder, follows the story of August Pullman (Auggie to his friends). Although Auggie looks, feels and has the same interests of a ten-yearold boy he isn’t. He has a condition that makes people stare and scares other children away, his face isn’t ordinary. After reconstructive surgery that can only do so much his parents make the decision to come out of home schooling and go back to school to start grade 5. Daunted by the idea, Auggie wonders if he will be able to fit in at school and it turns out to be just as he had expected, full of bullying and stares. But it is not all sadness, Auggie makes two close friends, Summer a girl who actually likes him for who he is and Jack, who started out as Auggie’s “assigned” friend but eventuate into real friendship. Auggie’s new allies help him through the war between Julian and his cronies, resulting in a successful year for Auggie. He makes the Honor Roll, and an award for courage, which he doesn’t understand “If they want to give me a medal for being me, I’ll take it!” He sees himself as ordinary and ordinary he is. This book is a great book for children between 9-12 years old, especially as the book shows different points of views from various characters throughout the book. It really gives children great insight to see people who they are not what they look like.

L O A DO U T Not rated - PC

Loadout is a free-to-play multiplayer-only first person shooter. It is only on computer and can be downloaded from Steam for free. Loadout has wacky approaches to the standard first person shooter, with game modes such as capture the hammer where you have a strong hammer to beat your enemies with while trying to get to their own base and capture points. It’s different than the normal game mode with random point spawns which makes it more fun as everyone runs to the point as soon as its position is revealed. The main selling (Downloading) point of Loadout is its customizable weapons. You can alternate rifle, launcher, pulse and beam weapon types, stocks, triggers, scopes, magazines, barrels, ammo types and up to four other ammo modifiers for certain weapons. It has roughly 7,489,800 possible gun combinations. In your loadout you get 2 gun slots and an equipment slot which opens even more combinations. You can also customize 3 characters but most extra outfit items cost real world money, but the game is purely play to win, not pay to win. The battle damage is very gruesome, if an arm gets shot with fire ammo it will become charred, if a body part gets shot enough it will come off and bone will show, but the game has a cartoony art style. If you have a problem with blood, this game is not for you. This game is really funny, quirky, free, great to play, weird and can make fun of itself which I love about a game. A must buy if you can get over the battle damage. This game is definitely one of my favourite games. You can contact me at sushiphantom@gmail.com or play with me on steam at Sushiphantom. Frag out for now! - Callum Bedson

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$300 ALUED AT V , T E K IC with Dr Dain W IN : 1 T ey” seminar

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WIN : A FAM ILY PAS S

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Play School Live In Concert – Price of Bear

the South Barwon Civic Centre on 20 Marc

s 2014 at

h Don’t miss out on the chance to see your childr en’s favourite television show live in concert when the Play School Concerts come to town. These popular Play School live shows are specially designed to delight pre-schoolers and parents alike. The concert features songs, games and storie s, presented by two Play School presenters, along with the real stars of the show the toys. As with the television program, everything in the concerts is caref ully paced especially for children. There are songs to move to, as well as quiet times to just watch and listen. The familiarity of the material and the presenters combined, totally engage the young audience and there is lots of audience participation.

To enter any of the above competitions, like the Kids Voice Facebook page (www.facebook.com/KidsVoiceGeelong) and then send us an email to comp@kidsvoice.com.au telling us why you would like to win. Entries to be submitted by 15 March. Winner will be announced on our Facebook page and website on 16 March.

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 29

L E A P F ROG A LPH A PUP

BAL ANCING ACT Joanna

- Funtastic

Suitable for children aged between 12 to 36 months. Little ones can learn with their new best friend, AlphaPup, the learning companion that walks and talks the ABC’s. This lovable puppy sings and sounds out each letter and introduces letter names, words that begin with each letter and cute doggie phrases. Colourful interactive buttons, wobbly paw-shaped wheels and a tail that wags, engages children and helps develop motor skills. Press the buttons to hear letters A to Z sounded out, words that begin with each letter and fun phrases that include these words. Press a doggie button to hear cute dog sayings and a music note button to play three learning song, as you pull the toy along by his bone. The songs stop when you stop, and they play when you walk, which makes walking a musical and fun play experience.

Trollope - Randomhouse

Susie Moran is a successful business owner, producing beautifully designed useable pottery objects. Now with her three daughters involved in the business she is proud of her family’s achievement however the men in her family may be a different story. Susie’s husband us a musician and artist who has always been happy to take easy way out and one of her sons in law has few ambitions outside the home. One of her daughters has bought her husband into the company and they want to change a few too many things for Susie’s liking. As life has it, another spanner has been thrown into the works as Susie’s aging hippy father wants to build bridges. Her daughters are outraged by the idea as her father abandoned Susie as a baby and now feels lonely. As the needs of Susie’s family business override the needs of her family itself she finds she may just lose something much more precious.

SP ON SO RE D BY

MO VI E RE VI EW S MR. P E ABOD Y &

TRA CKS

In 1977 a young Australian woman, Robyn Davidson walked from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean. Robyn endured a long, sweaty and relentless journey across the hottest terrain in the world. Originally setting out with no company except for her dog Diggity and 4 camels, she soon finds she has a curious crowd following in her wake. Apart from following Robyn’s journey to find herself and get lost in the solitude, you find yourself admiring the beautiful rich colours of Australia’s outback.

MR. SH E RM AN

If you loved Shrek, kung fu panda or any other Disney Pixar animation movie than Mr. Peabody and Mr. Sherman is for you. Their latest film to hit the cinemas takes you on Mr. Peabody and Mr. Sherman’s time machine the WABAC. Mr. Peabody is one of the world’s most accomplished dogs, not to mention his side kick and mischievous boy Sherman. However when Sherman takes the WABAC for a joy ride to impress his friend Penny they accidentally rip a hole in the universe, causing chaos in some of the worlds most important history. Luckily Mr. Peabody comes to the rescue before any more damage is done to the past, present or future. Ultimately making their mark on history while having awesome yet daunting adventures along the way!

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WI N: TH RE E SE TS OF FA MI LY PA SS ES

(O NE SE T PE R WI NN ER )

Greater Geelong Kids Expo

Geelong on 23 March

at the Leisuretime Centre, Nor

The Greater Geelong Kids Exp o will be a celebration of Gee long’s child friendly services and bus inesses, with a day of great acti vities planned for the whole family to enjoy, including free children’s activities such as free face painting, jum ping castles, activities, music and sports sessions. The event is guaranteed to be a fun, educati onal and exciting day! The expo will inte rest anyone with children who would like to find anything and everyth ing local for their kids to explore .

PAGE 30 - MARCH 2014

FREE ENTRY

Friday 14th March Riverview Tce Belmont

R 4pm – 8pm

KA RN IV AL ! AL NG RI KA E TH R FO UP LL RO , UP RO LL

SAVE THE DATE!

The front lawns of Karingal’s head office will be transformed into a colourful sea of activity on Friday, March 17 when the annual Karingal Karnivale kicks off.

Kardinia House will host the community event which promises to have something for everyone. Explore the markets, feast on the delicious food and wine and bring the kids for some family-friendly fun. There will be face painting, clowns, music and much more. The fair aims to bring people with a disability and the community together for an action-packed day of fun and activities.

Karingal Karnivale will be held on the picturesque lawns of Karingal’s head office, with the Barwon River a beautiful backdrop. The event is at 1 Riverview Terrace, Belmont from 4pm to 8pm on Friday, March 17. Entry is free, with gold coin donations accepted. Karnivale is organised by BacLinks, a division of Karingal which educates, supports and creates opportunities for businesses and community agencies to engage with each other for mutual benefit.

201 4 BLO KES DAY OUT FES TIV AL The fifth instalment of the Blokes Day Out Festival will be held on Sunday 30th March at Eastern Beach Reserve (Geelong Waterfront). Barwon Health has once again partnered with an array of Geelong and region organisations to stage this event which will focus on the general health and wellbeing of the males in our community. Males’ connections with their families, friends and community are recognised as being essential in understanding and supporting their health outcomes. It’s anticipated that over two thousand people will wander through the Reserve participating, sharing and

gaining information on services, clubs and groups that have links to male health around social connection, mental health and physical health. Entertainment, dance, activities and food will all form part of the day. Activities will also be held during the week leading up to the Festival. Activities include exhibitions, health checks, football night, dragon-boating, DIY workshops, Colac Blokes Day Out amongst many others others. Barwon Health is looking forward to seeing everyone down at the event!

FOR INFORMATION: Peter Kelly: Ph. 42153470

Facebook: /BlokesDayOut

W O O D E N B O A T F E S T IV A L The 2014 Festival will take place over four days and as in previous years’ there will be an opportunity for the public to get amongst wooden boats old and new, as well as fascinating onshore displays of nautical equipment, brassware, rope making and lots more. Best of all, the festival will feature wooden boat builders demonstrating traditional crafts like caulking and steam bending. As in previous years, public entry to the event will be absolutely free with an entry fee of $50 (plus GST) for all exhibitors.

TRAD E Hairdressers

Twitter: @BlokesDayOut

MA RC H 6 TH -9 TH

B ROY AL GEE LON G YAC HT CLU

Out on the water there will be plenty of action. Royal Geelong Yacht Club will be hosting the Heron Victorian Titles as part of the festival. As well, yachts will race around set courses in and out of Corio Bay, competing for many sponsored trophies. There’s heaps for kids too, including an Art Competition, face painting and a visit from Pirate Captain Jack Sparrow. P 0417 379 860 E stuartd@adrec.com.au www.rgyc.com.au

DIRE CTORY List your

Parties

business in the Kids’ Voice IT Solutions

trade directory. Email: ads@ kidsvoice.com au

Toy library

MARCH 2014 - PAGE 31

9 MARCH

Muddy Boots, Sandy Hands activity. Edwards Point walk. For more information: www.mbsh.org. au

Friday of the Labour Day long weekend in March. Delicious food, wine, music, children’s fun activities, carnival rides, silent auction. 4.30pm - 8.30pm. Costs: Gold coin donation on entry.

2 MARCH

7 - 9 MARCH

Geelong Highland Gathering, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds. Competitors from across Australia and New Zealand will take part in the inaugural Western Martial Arts Academies of Australia National Longsword Tournament at the Geelong Highland Gathering, at Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds Campus. The Geelong Highland Gathering will also host the South West Victorian Highland Pipe Band Championships and the South Pacific Heavy Games Championships. All the traditional Gathering events, Highland dancing competitions, Scottish Country dancing displays, a Scottish Fair and Market, Clan and genealogy tents, a Scottish breeds dog show and expanding children’s events including “Wee Heavy Games” make for a great family day. Costs: Family $40, adult $15; concession $12; under-16 $8 and under-5 free.

2 MARCH

Wallington Strawberry Fair, Wallington Primary School, 610 Wallington Road, Wallington. A family fun day that highlights local produce with a strawberry flavour. This is an event that provides for all the family, rides and gourmet foods. 10am - 4pm. Costs: Gold coin donation.

Motor City Music Festival, Geelong Show Grounds. The Motor City Music Festival has something for everyone. On the Sunday, bring the kids, tweens, teens and the grandparents for an all-ages family day featuring the fun of the showgrounds, a wider musical spectrum plus kids’ entertainment. Huge fireworks display at 8.45pm on Sunday night. Costs.

9 MARCH

Bellarine Agricultural Show, Portarlington Recreation Reserve, Cnr Sproat Street and Boat Road, Portarlington. Join us for all the excitement of this year’s show!! Kids Carnival Rides, Baby Animal Farm, Show Bags, Model Aircraft, Pony Rides, Hay Bale Rolling, Craft Demonstrations, Dennis Massoud - World Champion Sand Sculptor, Andrw Beales - Historical Story Teller. Adults: $10.00, Children under 16 and Pensioners: $5.00, Family Admission (2 Adults & 3 Children: $25.00, Children under 5: Free

14 MARCH

Amadea Cruise Ship, Waterfront Geelong, Eastern Beach Road. 8am - 6pm. Costs: Free

Karingal Karnivale, Karingal Head Office, 1 Riverview Terrace, Belmont. The Karnivale is an all inclusive fun family fair and operates as a twilight event on the lawns of Kardinia House. There will be food, wine, market stalls, a kid’s zone with rides, jumping castle and face painters plus live entertainment. 4pm - 8pm. Costs: Gold Coin Donation.

6 - 9 MARCH

15 - 16 MARCH

3 MARCH

Wooden Boat Festival of Geelong, Geelong Yacht Club, Geelong. Onshore displays of nautical equipment, brassware, rope making and lots more. Featuring wooden boat builders demonstrating traditional crafts like caulking and steam bending. Royal Geelong Yacht Club will be hosting the Heron Victorian Titles as part of the festival and yachts will race around set courses in and out of Corio Bay, competing for many sponsored trophies. There’s heaps for kids too, including an art competition, face painting and a visit from Pirate Captain Jack Sparrow. Costs: free

7 MARCH

Ocean Grove Apple Fair, Ocean Grove Primary School, Draper St, Ocean Grove. Enjoy all things apple at the Ocean Grove Apple Fair! Twilight event from 4.30pm

Victorian Lifesaving Championships, Ocean Grove

16 MARCH

Sanitarium Weet-Bix TRYathlon, Eastern Beach, Waterfront Geelong. 6.30 -11.30am. Costs involved.

18 MARCH

Cultural Diversity Week, Corio Library, Cox Rd, Corio. ‘Living Words Expo’ starting at 10am to 1pm. Join us for a morning of storytelling, dance, crafts, dress-ups and song. An artist will come along to help us make a special recipe book – so bring your favourite recipe. Free Lunch will include foods of the world. No bookings required. Ages 0-5years. For more information please contact: Shae Coatsworth (Best Start Project Officer City of

T E L L U S W HA T’S O N I N Y O U R A RE A

Greater Geelong). Ph:5272 4987 or email: scoatsworth@geelongcity.vic.gov. au

19 MARCH

Ride To School Day. Everywhere.

23 MARCH

Walk to D Feet MND, Barwon Valley Park, Barrabool Rd, Belmont. A fun way in which families, friends and interested people can join together to raise funds for research into Motor Neurone Disease. Currently there is no known cause and therefore no known cure for MND. The walk is approx 3kms. Disabled parking available. Participants are encouraged to preregister at everydayhero.com.au or they can register on the day. Registration includes an event T Shirt. For more info please contact mndwalkgeelong@gmail.com Please contact Fay Haywood on 5265 6054 for more information. 10.30am - 1pm. Adults $20 children/students $10 Families $50.

23 MARCH

Bellarine Fun Run for kids on the Bellarine Rail Trail, Drysdale Railway Station, (Station Street, Drysdale). The Rotary Kids Fun Runs is a fantastic opportunity for 1-12 year olds to run alongside a Steam Train. The Rotary Kids Fun Runs are held at the Drysdale Railway Station and offers a great FUN day out for the entire family. The events also raises funds for the Kids Plus Foundation, a local charity. http://www.pbevents.com. au/events/rotary-kids-fun-runs/

23 MARCH

Lara Food and Wine Festival, 110 Windermere Road, Lara. Come to the Lara Food and Wine Festival to taste produce you have not sampled before. Enjoy a great social day with friends, food and wine and see what is produced in our local area. The program is choc full of celebrities, cooking demonstrations and entertainment.

The Lara Food and Wine Festival operates on a not for profit basis.

24 MARCH

National Playgroup Week, Steampacket Gardens & Carousel, Eastern Beach Road, Geelong. 10am - 12pm. Free community event. Face Painting, Music Workshops, Carousel Rides, Roving Entertainment, Physical Activities, Storytelling, Giveaways, Craft Activities and more

29 MARCH

Tashi, GPAC, Geelong. Drama Theatre. Imaginary Theatre brings to life Anna and Barbara Fienberg’s well-loved adventure books. Two fabulous theatrical adaptations of these exciting family stories come to life in this exciting new production - Tashi and the Mountain of White Tigers and Tashi: Lost in the City. 12 & 2.30pm. All tickets $20. Bookings www.gpac.org.au

30 MARCH

Blokes Day Out Festival, Eastern Beach Reserve, Geelong Waterfront. 10am - 3pm. A free celebratory festival for blokes and families featuring entertainment, games, show bags, displays, information, health checks, food and much, much more.

2 APRIL

Speak Up, Speak Out, Protect. Kempe Read The Play Parent Information Session, Captains Room, Simons Stadium, Geelong. FREE information session to learn about mental illness in young sports men and women. Do you KNOW if your children need help and HOW to help them? 6.50pm for a 7pm start. Free of Charge, RSVP’s Essential; please go online to reserve your spot at http://www.trybooking.com/EHDJ

6 APRIL Muddy Boots, Sandy Hands activity. Celebrate Nature Week: Lake Victoria. For more information: www.mbsh.org.au

- E M A I L E D I T O R@ K I DS V OI C E.C OM.AU