Kids Voice September 2014

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TRAV E LLI N G WI T H C YSTIC FIBROSIS K IDS - DOUBL E TR O U BL E W I TH NU MBE R TW O S M AKING WAVE S - R AI SING TODDL ERS -

RIDING YOUR FI RST BI KE - W H A T’S O 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

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- SEPTEMBER 2014

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 3

WINNERS

WELCO M E Spring has arrived! Let’s hope it’s not only in name, but also in milder temperatures and sunnier days. The advent of spring brings the realisation that term 3 is almost over and the final term coming ends another school year. For the younger kids, it brings the excitement of new classes and new teachers in the forthcoming year; for the older “kids” it brings the reality of testing and exams. No matter how hard we, as parents, try to drum it into our adolescents that they need to prepare well, to read over notes, to have study timetables and so on, these youngsters will still decide what and how much they need to do whether we agree with their plans or not. How many parents stress over their youngsters exams more than they do? In the end though, they are masters of their own fate and they will need to deal with the outcome.

So, in the meantime, let us enjoy spring and the rest of term 3. And please kids, don’t forget to spoil your dad on Fathers’ Day - 7 September.

Happy Father Day to all our dads out there!

FR O M THE T EAM Kids Voice

KV TEAM

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

AR E

GRINNERS SCIENCEWORKS FAMILY PASS WINNERS! Nicole O’Brien & Natalie Thompson

‘WOULD YOU TEACH A FISH

TO CLIMB A TREE’ WINNERS! Ursula Richens - Michelle Armistead Louise Kirk - Amy Effemey

GRAPHICS & LAYOUT ARTIST Elise Blach STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Alan Barber COVER MODEL Angus Hanson

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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- SEPTEMBER 2014

CONTENTS 7

Double Trouble with Number Twos

8

Travelling with Cystic Fibrosis

9

Believe Birth

12

Geelong East Primary School

13

Carly’s Blog

16

Green as! - A Soul-full Life

19

5 Stage Guide to Success

20

Raising Toddlers - Steve Bodwell - Comedian, Father and Author

23

Do you remember your first bike?

27

Cooking & Craft

28

Reviews

30

What’s On

...AND MUCH MORE

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12

13

20

23

27

THIS ISSUE’S COVER BOY...

NAME AND AGE?

Angus Hanson - 17months He loves to play with his footy and cricket bat.

He loves going for walks outside and exploring things. He also loves dancing and singing.

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 5

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- SEPTEMBER 2014

JACKIE,

KANE, ISABELL & ANGUS

Jackie moved to Geelong when she was 14 with her parents and three younger brothers, as the family were all keen on sport, and felt that Geelong had better sporting and educational opportunities when compared to the country. Jackie met Kane 8 years ago. He then lived in Queensland, but he had grown up in Ocean Grove. After about 18 months things were getting serious so Kane made the move back to Victoria, but the compromise was that Jackie and Kane had to live in Ocean Grove (she did alright)!

Jackie has worked as a registered nurse on the Children’s Ward at Geelong Hospital for 10 years and Kane works as a landscape gardener.

Jackie and Kane both love kids and after a couple of years they fell pregnant. Jackie’s first blood test showed that her hormone levels were high. At the 6 week scan it was found that there was definitely one baby, and there was another, but the second fetus was so small and there was no visible heart beat, so Jackie and Kane were told that there would likely be only one surviving baby from the pregnancy.

Jackie’s mum came to the 12 week scan as Kane was away with work, and Jackie’s bladder was so full that the ultrasonographer said that she needed to go to the toilet so that he could get a good look at the BABIES! Jackie and her mum were so excited!

The twins were perfect at every scan (as you have a few extra scans with twins), and Jackie and Kane didn’t find out what they were having, so the whole pregnancy was exciting. Jackie felt well during the whole pregnancy, just tired between 8-12 weeks. She was working full time as a nurse and keeping up with netball coaching commitments, and keeping fit by going to spin classes, yoga and swimming. Jackie believes in having a healthy mind and healthy body, however when pregnant she would often fall asleep by 8.30pm!

Jackie and Kane were soooo lucky to get into Dr Shembrey (Geelong Obstetrician) as she knew that he was the only Obstetrician in Geelong that supports the natural birth of twins. Dr Shembrey was amazing, and Jackie looked

forward to every appointment, especially to hear the twins heart beat and getting the reassurance that all was going well.

Dr Shembrey and Jackie talked about delivery towards the end of the pregnancy, knowing that a caesarean section would be safer (as the second twin can turn and change position during labour and cause some problems). However towards the end of the pregnancy both twins were head down (cephalic) and they all felt that going into labour would be safe. Jackie worked up until 32 weeks gestation, so had the next six weeks of leisure (walking on the beach, catching up with people and going out for lunch). The only birth plan she had was to just go with the flow and do what’s best and safest for the twins. Jackie thinks that the best plan is to listen to your doctor or midwife, as they are the experts, and be open minded. Jackie has seen people plan every detail and when things do not go according to plan, they often get disappointed.

Jackie knew that she was being induced at 38 weeks and that she had to have an epidural and she was happy with that.

bottle of expressed milk at the ready. Everyone is always happy to feed a baby! Jackie thinks that the babies knew that she was impatient so they were very efficient feeders! She managed to breast feed them until they were 12 months of age which Jackie was thrilled about. Gus would still be feeding now if Jackie let him but she had had enough by 12 months!

The twins have never been great sleepers. At 8 months of age Jackie and Kane separated the twins which helped them sleep especially during the day, Gus wakes up once a night still and yells out, and he just wants a cuddle. The family just do this as it won’t last forever, and Jackie’s learned to do what it takes to get sleep and peace!

Issy and Gus are now two and a half years of age and Kane and Jackie can’t imagine life without them. Jackie thought that she was busy pre kids but ‘Oh My God’ she was wrong! The twins are crazy but fun. They are enrolled in swimming, dancing, soccer, music, mothers group and the family are heavily involved in the Geelong Area Multiple Birth Association (GAMBA). The twins go Jackie’s labour was amazing! The only time she got everywhere with their parents. Everyone knows scared was the night before the planned induction them in Ocean Grove; they run to their favourite date. At around 5 pm Kane got home from work coffee shop every day (Driftwood in the main and they were planning to go out for tea, but street), and the girls at Bakers Delight know exactly Jackie was feeling ordinary and started vomiting. what they want! Sometimes they really don’t listen, She called the hospital and after talking to the and run in opposite directions, and have melt midwives, decided that she would stay at home. In downs, but Jackie just takes a deep breath and retrospect Jackie thinks that she probably should sometimes laughs as there’s only one of her! have gone into hospital as she had her hands on The twins have their own personalities and already her tummy all night, waiting for the babies to kick.

Issy is strong minded like her mum and Gus is Jackie and Kane were asked to be at the hospital by 7.30am the next morning, but by 6am she felt that she just had to go in. They went to St John of God Hospital in Geelong and everything was so well organised! They went straight to the birthing suites where the midwife did a few things, then Dr Shembrey assessed Jackie. She was already 3 cm dilated (so was in early labour). Shortly after Jackie arrived at the hospital she had the epidural inserted and Kane and Jackie then slept for the next few hours.

By 2.30pm the labour had progressed well, and there were so many nurses watching in the labour ward as there are not too many natural deliveries for twins! Dr Shembrey came in along with the amazing Dr Christine Sanderson (paediatrician), and by 3.12pm Isabella was born (weighing 5 pounds 13). She was just perfect and breast fed straight way.

Then things went a little crazy, as twin two decided to move into a footling breech position (with the legs coming out first). twin two (Angus, weighing 5lbs 11oz) was born six minutes after twin one, and he was quite blue, so was taken to the Special Care Nursery for 40 minutes just to be assessed.

Kane and Jackie always said that if something went wrong then Kane was to stay with the babies, not with Jackie, and that’s exactly what happened.

Jackie and the twins remained in hospital for 7 days after delivery and luckily the twins got to stay with Jackie. However she didn’t sleep for 48 hours after they were born as the adrenalin was running through her veins, and she couldn’t believe they were theirs!

Jackie was lucky that the twins took to the breast.

Initially they were a little jaundiced so she had to wake them every three hours for the first month, from then she fed them at the same time for four months on a twin pillow, but then they got too big. When ever she went out she always had a

so easy going, and just loves being outside like his father. People say all the time how perfect the pigeon pair are and that Jackie doesn’t need any more children’ but Kane and Jackie will definitely be having more kids in the near future.

It does get easier and as they get older. Jackie’s noticed other challenges, but twins are amazing and they are so lucky to always have each other.

Kane and Jackie have just started doing things one on one with the twins which is also so important, and they love it, but Jackie is back at work for 2 days a week, so they are finding that family time very precious.

Having twins has been and is an amazing experience however it does have its challenges, for example when they are both crying who do you pick up and comfort first? Then there’s the guilt such as, will they remember that Jackie held one more than the other?

Jackie and Kane wouldn’t have enjoyed Issy and Gus half as much as they do if it wasn’t for their parents, who have been amazing. In the early days when it seems like they were up all night, the grandparents would offer to come over with a meal and clean the house. The family feel so lucky to have their parents so close, and now sometimes the kids prefer to hang out with them, so that’s really rewarding for their grandparents.

And lastly living in the community of Ocean Grove has been great. Kane and Jackie have been heavily involved in netball, football and cricket, and the kids went to their first function when they were 10 days old! Everyone knows them and they are often left with a local in the club rooms eating lollies! Kane finds it so rewarding that Gus goes to his footy games and they have a kick at half time!

THANKS JACKIE FOR SHARING YOUR

WONDERFUL STORY, AS TOLD TO JEN CARR

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 7

There really was no better time. A four day break spanning Good Friday to Easter Monday, with my husband at home to preoccupy my seven year old, no weekend plans, the weather outside miserable, the shops closed for the holidays and an abundance of chocolate eggs to use as ‘reward’. While neither of my twin girls were showing any inclination to take the plunge into ‘big girl pants’, the mounting costs of a box of nappies a week and a general restlessness around having been elbow deep in poo for a good part of the early 21st century, I realised the benefits of potty training and thought to grab the opportunity as it presented.

It was not unchartered territory, and I felt reasonably well-armed – only a few years before I had successfully guided my eldest child through all the necessarily mundane stages and it had proved a relatively painless transition, achieving dry nights almost from the beginning. This time I had stocked up on all the products on the free market from the potty itself to the lid cover for the toilet bowl, step up ladders, terry towel ‘training pants’(save your money) and disposable ‘pull ups’. I was thoughtful and tactical, taking a divide and conquer approach – honing in on Lucinda, the generally more compliant natured of the twins. Employing a text book approach I made sure she had water (upon reflection she may not have needed a whole litre), was neither too tired nor too full of energy, and the temperature inside was set to optimal. I gently removed the nappy, slipped the plastic potty under her, and then, as most parents in these circumstances do, immediately turned into a maniacal deranged parody of Modern Family’s’ Cam, “Weedy-woodies in the pot pot!”, “little tinky winkies”, “Oh such a big girl doing her poopy-da-poopies” were among other sing song statements that actually came out of my mouth, clearly as degrading to my toddler as they were to me.

Then we waited, and we waited and we waited.

Finally! After several minutes of sitting in front of Pepper Pig on replay, the merest hint of a yellow drop in the bottom of the bowl! Celebrations that would make Mardi Gras look like a morning stroll in the park ensued, chocolate flowed, ribbons

awarded, anyone who has been there knows how the story goes…..

In retrospect, I should have been a little more aware of her sister Georgie sitting up at the breakfast bench, watching with one eye while slowly munching her cheese sandwich, eerily reminiscent of Kevin from that Lionel Shriver novel. Coming down from the ‘high’ of urination accomplishment, all attentions were then turned. I cautiously approached her, plastic smile not leaving my face, tone of voice tuned to ‘squeaky’ I declared “your turn now!” which even to me sounded a warning. I went to pull the first plastic tab, and without missing a beat, she swivelled around in her chair and in a measured, threateningly effective voice, loudly whispered two words, “Leave it!” (think Jack Nicholson, The Shining) and back to the sandwich. There was no ambiguity in the message. This I hadn’t anticipated. After having coolly witnessed the freak show that is ‘the first wee’ from a distance, she firmly had decided there was no way she was subjecting herself to that; it was to be nappies for a while for her yet.

So it really should have come as no surprise about how we got from there to here. It is 6:30pm on a Thursday night at the height of summer now, and it is hot and we are all bothered. I have a rare appointment at an upmarket dentist surgery, the kind where the walls and carpet are as white as the uniforms and the smiles.

For some reason I have the three kids with me, for some totally inexplicable reason, Georgie, completely of her own volition decides it’s the appropriate time and place for her to take up the challenge Lucinda had mastered ahead of her.

I’m in the elevated chair, thankful that despite the heat, their tiredness and the hour of the day, the kids are playing quietly with the toy box provided.

It’s quiet. So very quiet. The check- up takes only a few short minutes. The embarrassment, the hilarity, the putrid smell, the mess and the chaos of that spontaneous poop on the waiting room carpet however, will stay with me forever. As will the radiant story of how we eventually toilet trained our twins.

CAROLYN ROBERTSON

DOUBLE

TROUBLE WITH NUMBER

TWOS

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- SEPTEMBER 2014

TRAVELLING

LIGHT

Three days ago we returned home from a family holiday to Hawaii. As we arrived at the check-in counter in Honolulu, the agent looked at the five of us, glanced at our baggage and said ‘Wow, your family travels light’. I smiled and thought, ‘Oh, if only you knew…’

You see, I didn’t start out as a light traveller. On my first post-children trip the only item I left behind was the bathtub. I was travelling with my six-month-old son from New Zealand to California to meet my family. I got it all wrong, bringing several king-size suitcases and a mountain of carry-on luggage. But worse, far worse, was the twenty kilos of excess worry I dragged across the Pacific Ocean. It’s true, I probably had more to stress about than the average new mum, but I’ve learned that even totally justifiable worry and anxiety can destroy an otherwise pleasant holiday.

The tricky bit for our family is that although we may not bring many suitcases, no matter where we go, cystic fibrosis comes with us. My two elder sons live with this chronic, life-threatening genetic condition which requires daily antibiotics, enzymes to help them digest their food (about 25 tablets/day), nebulised medications and chest physiotherapy to protect their lungs. We have been fortunate – and worked very hard – and, thankfully, they have stayed remarkably well.

That first unhappy trip began my conversion to a better approach to travel. I realised that something had to shift in my brain. Given the treatment load and complications with their health, many families would have dug their roots in deep, giving up on holiday destinations. But

keeping our feet planted on terra firma was not really an option for us since I am from San Francisco, married to a New Zealander and living in Australia. Since having our children we have lived in three countries on three different continents and travelled to about fifteen other nations.

Of course, travel is much easier now that our three sons are older (aged 18, 15 and 11) and they no longer crawl across my lap while I’m trying to sip my little plastic glass of red wine and balance my dinner tray. Thankfully, I have really enjoyed most of our adventures, partly because along the way I developed a few principles to travel by…

Pack heavy on things you can’t buy, light on everything else For families who travel with special health requirements this means bringing extra medications, scripts (in Australia) and medical equipment. On a recent trip to hike the Inca Trail I was determined not to be searching for a Peruvian pharmacy at 4000m altitude, even if it meant going without underwear. In the end, I fit the undies in alongside all the back-up drugs and we had no medical emergencies.

Enjoy the break, but keep essential routines When we’re on a holiday we try to do all the things we love but don’t get enough chance to do normally – sports, adventure, relaxing and eating well. But there are a few things we don’t change, like medication and treatment routines. If there are health risks we wouldn’t take at home, we don’t take them when we travel.

Prepare for the worst but don’t expect it I know there’s a chance our kids may end up admitted to hospital while overseas – because it has happened twice already. So, I naturally take out insurance when going to the US, which was pretty helpful the time we had a $52,000 hospital bill. Suitcases packed with medications can go missing, so I split up the drugs between all the bags. Essential equipment may break, but we can usually find replacements. The point of a holiday is to enjoy it, so I try not to panic until the evidence demands it.

Ironically, several of the worst health crises to hit us when overseas happened to two of the ‘healthy’ members of our family. My youngest son was struck with pneumonia in the Cook Islands and my husband developed cellulitis and needed IV antibiotics on an overseas skiing trip. The truth is that these issues can hit anyone while travelling; for me, fear of possible health problems isn’t a reason to avoid boarding a plane. Yes, it may require more thought and planning for families like ours to have a safe and healthy trip. But once you have done the preparation, the absolute key to a successful trip is to stop and carefully unpack the fear and anxiety from your suitcase before you walk out the door.

SUSAN BIGGER IS THE

AUTHOR OF “THE UPSIDE OF DOWN”

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 9

PROTECTING

THOSE FIRST PRECIOUS HOURS

AFTER BIRTH

It has been a long nine months waiting for this moment. It has finally arrived!

Everyone is holding their breath, waiting for that first cry. You are handed the most amazing little person and place them on your chest. You look into each others eyes. Their first cry rings through the birth room. No other moment compares!

Those first few hours after the birth of a baby involve so many factors; elation, relief, recovery, love, baby’s first breastfeed, and absolute wonder. Protecting this time and keeping the outside world at bay is important for many reasons.

SKIN-TO-SKIN TIME:

Being skin-to-skin with your new baby is such a beautiful experience. Holding your baby naked on your bare chest has so many benefits for you and baby.

Not only does your baby maintain their temperature, heart rate and breathing rate better, skin-to-skin helps mums release oxytocin in large amounts. Oxytocin is that amazing hormone responsible for contracting your uterus and slowing bleeding, causing the letdown reflex when breastfeeding, and creating feelings of love and bonding.

FIRST BREASTFEED:

Once your baby has had a good cry after being born, they then go into a quiet yet alert state. During this time they are looking at you, feeling you, smelling you, and eventually start to try to find the breast for a feed. This process can’t be rushed or interrupted. Babies will feed in their own time if given the opportunity, so patience is a must. It has been found that babies who breastfeed within the first hour of birth are more likely to exclusively breastfeed for longer.

KEEPING THE WORLD AT BAY:

These are your very first moments as a family, moments that will never be repeated! This is your time to look your baby over from top to toe, and to take a breath from the intensity of birth. To do this in a quiet, calm, and even darkened room helps mum and baby transition gently together to the outside world.

While phone calls to loved ones are important and exciting, there’s no rush to let everyone in at once. Dads are particularly good at protecting this time, and family and friends are very understanding. Your midwives will also be only too happy to delay baby’s measurements and injections during these special moments. Oh, and this is the time for photos! Lots of photos!

Welcoming your new baby into the world is an experience like no other. I often describe it as being enveloped in a love bubble where for those few short hours you forget about the outside world and all you feel is love, hope, and possibility.

Protecting this time will allow you to be totally present in these moments and gain the full benefit for both mother and baby. So, during your pregnancy, have a think about how you would like to spend this precious time. Then on the day of birth, enjoy the moment!

ELLYSE REUS

FOUNDER OF BELIEVE BIRTH

WWW.BELIEVEBIRTH.COM.AU

WWW.FACEBOOK/BELIEVEBIRTH

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SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 11

POTENTIALLY GIFTED...

Many anxious parents come to see me at the CHIP Centre concerned that their pr-schooler is not coping well with Day Care or Kindergarten. Often the teacher has said that they are unable to socialise with the other children in the cohort and, as a consequence, are not ready for school. This is very concerning for the parents of a child who, for myriad reasons, they believe to be very proficient.

You may not be certain as to whether your child is of high intellectual potential; perhaps you are just aware of a quality of difference about your child when compared with others. That difference can be one of interests unlike those of other children, a different way of thinking and behaving or perhaps an adult way of talking.

While many high potential children are delightful, uncannily perceptive and reasonable seemingly from the moment they were born, it is true to say that they can present parents and teachers with management difficulties.

How can we know?

A checklist is useful as it can start a parent on the road to help, to formal identification, to better understanding of the experiences of a child who is intellectually bright.

Remember, not all children will show all of these qualities, perhaps even just two or three.

Unusually large vocabulary Although speaking early does not necessarily predict a high-potential child, rapid acquisition of many words is typical.

Advanced comprehension of the subtleties of language and delight in using words.

They scoop up the words they hear from all manner of sources, work them deftly into their language repertoire and thrive on the admiration of listeners.

Long attention span, persistence and intense concentration Once captured, their attention is rock solid.

A particular alertness and acuity in observing the world around them They have a quality of alertness that is just not observed in other children. “A walking sponge” is how they have often

been described.

A wide range of interests Their focus moves purposefully from puzzles to ants to drawing to fantasy play to looking at books to constructing with the household flotsam and jetsam.

Interest in going things differently If there is another way of doing it they find it.

Tendency to put things together in different ways (divergent thinking) They have an ability to see connections that gives them early access to powers of reasoning. They can recognise connections, extrapolate and synthesise when other children are still identifying and describing Memory If it happened, then it is now slotted away in the recesses of their magpie minds. They remember facts, events, who did what to whom.

Unusual sense of humour It is unusual because even at an early age they seem to appreciate adult-like humour.

Intensity High Potential Children love what they do! This is expressed in the passion and singularity they bring to their interests, their tenacity when engaged and their drive when in hot pursuit of what it is they want to uncover, discover, solve.

A fantasy friend This friend will be fleshed out with a total personality and characteristics, occupying real space and time.

Reading and Number CHIP often are able to read much at a younger age than most children; many before entering school.

What then?

If you have checked the checklist and found that the ticks outweigh the crosses, and/or talked to the doctor and teacher, the next step in identification of high-potential children should take the form of something more than subjective opinion Parents need to understand that their child is not like the mainstream or average child in a

preschool group; they are normal, but not average. Indeed you will be an advocate for your child all through their schooling and so it is important that you make yourself familiar with all things “high intellectual potential” or “gifted”.

Transition to Kindergarten Kindergarten teachers especially are alert to the “immature” child who does not fit in with the other children or “not socializing” where fitting in and behaving like the other children is the mark of “maturity.” What some kindergarten teachers can miss is that high-potential children often are quite comfortably solitary. With or without others around them, their own company seems sufficient - at this time in their lives at least. Children with enhanced potential to learn often find it difficult to find like-minded peers in the relatively small cohort of Kindergarten. For example a fine sense of humour characteristic of children with high intellectual potential is often not appreciated by classmates. This in itself will cause frustration. Preschool children are often locked into the expectations of Kindergarten where there is little exposure to the modelling of alternate – and more mature standards of social interaction. As a consequence such children have challenges interacting with their classmates socially often preferring to interact with the teacher. Often another year of Kindergarten is advised to correct the deficit but ironically this course of action may perpetuate an immature response pattern. It is consequent exposure to a larger cohort in school where children have more opportunity to find a peer group or soul mates with which to socialise that is so necessary for such a child.

These are the micro-CHIP (Children of High Intellectual Potential). Apart from being a catchy title its use does imply something to be kept in mind about very young highpotential children, and that is, they are likely to appear and act differently from other toddlers/preschoolers.

Sandra S Lea-Wood PhD Manager CHIP Centre Geelong Further Information www.chipgeelong.ingeelong.com.au

PAGE 12 - SEPTEMBER 2014

GEELONG EAST PRIMARY SCHOOL

Describe the school’s sport program: Physical Education and sporting activities are integral to the school program. Geelong East Primary School is working through accreditation as a health promoting school. Physical and health education is an important aspect of each child’s school day. A specialist teacher provides weekly lessons to children from Prep to Year 6.

Active After School Sport activities run three nights a week for children enrolled at our school. Sporting events such as athletics carnivals, cross country and clinics as well as entry into district, regional and state events ensure all children have the opportunity to participate at a high level.

Describe the school’s arts program: The arts program caters for the artistic and musical talents of students through weekly specialist lessons.

The visual arts program at Geelong East Primary School caters to all students from prep to grade six. Students use their fine motor skills to create, paint, draw, make and experiment with a large variety of different materials.

The arts program works in conjunction with the students integrated studies to ensure their work is meaningful and purposeful.

Students have the opportunity to attend art club, exhibit their work at local events and display their work at a bi-annual art show.

The performing arts program at Geelong East Primary School covers drama, dance and music. From prep to grade six, students experiment with and learn percussion instruments, extending to keyboards, xylophones and recorders. Students have the opportunity to participate in an annual drama production and the school choir and also have regular opportunities to perform both in the school, and the wider community in music festivals, fetes and concerts, with annual performances at GPAC and at

school assemblies being highlights for both students and parents. The school has built an outdoor stage to allow for impromptu performances and plays.

Describe the school’s ICT program: Information Communications Technology supports all curriculum areas with literacy and numeracy at their core.

Children are introduced to technology from the very beginning of their learning in prep with classroom iPads. Our year one and two students are provided with individual, purpose built, junior netbooks. Year three students have access to iPads for at school learning. In Year 4 children can Bring Their Own Device (BYOD) iPad. These devices will see these students through their senior years of primary learning. Class sets of iPads are available throughout the school.

Currently our Year 5 and 6 students have a 1:1 netbook program. We are very proud of the fact that every classroom is equipped with an electronic, interactive whiteboard that puts the world of education at the fingertips of the teachers and students and utilises immediate, relevant knowledge and programs to support children’s learning.

Students with Special learning needs: Geelong East Primary School supports students with special learning needs through intervention and extension programs. Individual learning improvement plans, program support group meetings and specialised individual programs ensure goals are set and met within our mainstream school. Sadie, our care dog, assists us in a variety of ways throughout the school.

Chess and debating programs are provided as well as art and environment clubs for the children.

What kind of camps and other education programs are offered:

LS SCHOO US IN FOC

We are eSmart Accredited. We have gone through the rigorous process to ensure we are providing curriculum programs that assist children in developing their awareness of bullying, including cyber bullying.

At different levels children can be involved in our camp program which includes school sleepovers, Sovereign Hill Historical camp, Coastal Forest Lodge, or an Urban Camp in Melbourne depending on their year level.

Children have the opportunity to be involved in the Junior School Council, leadership programs and in 5/6 a Rotary kids program which runs throughout the senior year.

Peer Buddy and Peer Mediation programs assist with social cohesion in the school. The Alana & Madeline Foundation Better Buddies program is a feature of our school.

We are a Resource Smart school which includes a focus on sustainability with water tanks, solar panels, vegie garden and chickens all supporting our students to understand their effect on the world.

Our canteen service is accredited through the Healthy Together Victoria program, in partnership with Nutrition Australia. One of only a few in Geelong that meets the Healthy Living Standards.

What is the school philosophy?

To be an outstanding school where care, innovation and progressive practices ensure resilient and connected students that thrive in an ever changing world.

Our aim is to provide a supportive environment that fosters and develops each child’s: • confidence, • self-discipline; and • persistence in an academic and social context.

Karen Chaston – Principal

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 13

Talk about squishy! Sophie’s second birthday party felt like a tiny river jam packed with salmon swimming upstream. Although we had a significant number of beautiful family and friends there to celebrate her big day and our house was way too small for an event that size, the day was an absolute blast. The day began super smoothly, as I had the previous day off work to do all the running around and majority of the set-up which left little for us to prepare on Saturday morning. Sophie was spoilt rotten, with a huge amount of special, exciting gifts which have now filled her bedroom, and the lounge room and half the spare room. (We can now officially open a toy store.)

lives, by showing love and support and bits of help wherever they can.

Seeing our beautiful girl celebrate her birthday with so many wonderful people around her was super special and a great reminder of the help and support we have had over the past two years. It is unbelievable how so many people can make such an impact on a few

We were lucky enough to have a great family friend who was our photographer for the day; Dan cruised around the house snapping photos of everyone in sight, as well as food and drinks and even snuck on

The party definitely reinforced the feeling that our baby has certainly grown up, and very quickly too!

Watching her playing with all her 2 year old friends, then jogging on with the older kids (between 5-11 years old) was just mind blowing. She never once cracked the sads or got grumpy, even after a huge afternoon filled with, jumping castles (which she never got off!), face painting, and a huge spread of yummy food as well as a great lolly buffet. She was happy cruising around spending time with everyone and just going with the flow, which really surprised me.

the jumping castle with the kids and got some great shots. When I received the USB stick full of photos from the day, I was overwhelmed with excitement and blown away by the amazing memories he had managed to capture for us. I wasn’t going to hire a photographer for the party, as we had gone crazy with everything else but I had that fear in the back of my mind, that I would be too under the pump to even remember to pull out my own camera, or even my phone and get a few snaps. And, just as I expected, when the party came to an end…. I realised I hadn’t pulled out my phone once to even check the time or if anyone had called, or to take a snap of the cake. So we were super glad we had such a great friend there to take snaps of all our precious family members and friends capturing moments that don’t get shared vary often and will never be forgotten.

Carly

PAGE 14 - SEPTEMBER 2014

MAKING WAVES

WITH OUR KIDS

How lucky are we in the Geelong region? We are surrounded by a huge water playground, opening up lots of opportunities for our children to engage in fun and active play. The long, sandy beaches offer endless space for running, ball games and sand play. The ocean offers opportunities for swimming, surfing, ball games and general water play – activities that many of us love to do. The social aspect is just a wonderful added benefit. And if we are not satisfied with the beach around us, there are always the local pools that we can access for another opportunity for swimming and water play.

So why is it that children are so drawn to the water?

If a child sees a puddle of water on the ground, a running tap or a bucket of water, they seem to be magically drawn to it. We know many of our children love to play at the swimming pool. Water is an alternative, exciting environment for play that provides a wealth of sensory, physical and social benefits for everyone. Many of us know about the benefits of swimming, and living down on the coast, it is certainly an essential safety and life skill. Aside from the safety aspect, the breathing control required for swimming is great for lung health. Swimming is also a great way to develop our cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, endurance and circulation – just to name a few. However, the benefits of play and exercise in the water can go even beyond the bounds of swimming.

Physiotherapists are using water as an alternative environment to provide therapy in order to promote development in children. The body of evidence supporting the benefits of Aquatic Therapy, as it is termed, is growing and progressively being used for children. Children with movement difficulties or sensory delay, fear of water or disability all may benefit from Aquatic Therapy. So why is water such a great environment to encourage for our children?

Moving in water can give to a person a feeling of movement and freedom unlike anything that one can feel on land. The body can move in a three – dimensional pattern through the water, supported by the buoyancy and water pressure and providing a feeling of weightlessness. The buoyancy can give support to a person as they move, often making that movement easier to achieve. Alternatively, the

buoyancy can provide a resistance to a movement, making a person work his muscles harder. So can you imagine how hard our childrens’ muscles are working as they play a game of “chasey” or play ball games in the water at the beach or pool!

The sensory stimulation that the water pressure can provide to the body may also provide a calming effect on a child. It is as if a blanket of deep pressure is provided against the skin, giving a child more awareness of their body and their position in space. As a child learns to move in water, floating on their back, rolling on their tummy, or playing with a noodle for instance, the central trunk muscles are instrumental in controlling these movements. It is a fantastic way to engage those core muscles that we know are so important in developing our motor skills and coordination.

Let’s consider some everyday scenarios that we may experience with our children. Bathtime – an essential part of our hygiene, is so much more for our children. It is often a fun, social and relaxing time for children. The play involved may include blowing bubbles which is important for developing breath control, lung capacity and sound production.

The warmth of the water, and water pressure can provide a calming effect on our children, as well as muscle relaxation. Pouring water from cup to cup, or sprinkling water over their head in play provides a range of sensory experiences for our children.

Playing at the pool – a fantastic opportunity for recreation and family time. Using a noodle to kick along will encourage upper body control, core strength, and leg strength. As a child turns with a noodle, this will increase the demands on his strength. If a child cycles his legs, the heart and lungs will increase their work, along with their muscles, providing a great fitness opportunity. All in the name of play!

Playing in the shallows at the beach – As a child stands in the shallow water, in the soft unstable sand, their balance and reflex mechanisms are constantly working – readjusting to the moving surface beneath them. The muscles in his feet, legs and core are working as are the receptors that feel the water, and that detect the movement.

As the child starts to move, these balance and strength demands increase. When he has his turn on the body board, there is a huge demand on body strength, especially core strength, as well as breathing control. The water provides resistance as the child kicks their legs and they propel forwards; a great strengthening opportunity. All in the name of play!

Water activities can be driven in play or song which becomes even more engaging for many children.

The benefits are achieved – all in the name of play!!

However, it is important to acknowledge that for some children, water play at the pool or beach (and even the bath) can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. It is important to respect this however, this doesn’t mean that it cannot become a more positive experience. For some children, the sensory stimulation may be overwhelming. This may include the feeling of lack of control or instability when in the water, the visual confusion from the effect of light reflection and refraction on the water or even the noises when in the pool environment. A child must feel safe and supported when in a water environment to make it a positive experience and will need gradual exposure and support to deal with this.

So as the weather starts to warm, consider the benefits of water activities for your child. Remember the golden rule and never leave your child unsupervised and be familiar with water safety guidelines available at www.watersafety.vic.gov.au and www.royallifesaving.com.au.

Maureen Stanic - Physiotherapist GO FORTH, HAVE FUN AND “MAKE WAVES” WITH YOUR CHILDREN!!

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.

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 15

PAGE 16 - SEPTEMBER 2014

GREEN AS! Think of something green…I usually go straight to grass, especially at this time of year and the ache to lay on the warm, scented grass in spring connecting to the Earth. There’s something about green that calls to my soul…it is the colour ray of the heart charka, but there’s something else that calls me to green…for me it is LIFE giving. Green foods like edible grasses, spinach, silver beet, kale, lettuce are rich in vitamins and minerals essential for living cells to breathe, eat and excrete (detoxify)…hey just like US! But the deeper reason for this offering today is the profound effect green nutrients can have on depression and moods.

My life-cycle has taken me into the landscape of depression this year, I like to think that this is so I can understand its world so I can help others…and my heartfelt offer here is that eating green has kept me above the line on really challenging days and overall has created a new language of positivity that brings joy to life.

Science has shown that the vitamin folate is essential for brain chemistry. It is required to produce neurotransmitters (the brains version of language) that balance mood, help us focus and engage in life with enthusiasm and also, importantly, assist us to unwind, rest and meditate. From birth to death our bodies require folate and green foods are abundant with folate.

The earlier we can introduce a daily intake of green veggies into our bodies the more languages our brains have to engage in a soul-full life…

“But my kids won’t eat a plate of rabbit food…lol…” especially when there tasty snack foods in packets so easily available… Enter the magical Green Smoothie…

Thanks to pioneers like David Wolfe, Victoria Boutenko, Kristine Miles and Sarah Nolan-Quinney (the rawfood mum) to name a few, the Green Smoothie is highly available, incredibly tasty and really easy to do. In a blender or nutribullet 3 key ingredients (4 if adding a superfood or herb) that go in are:

1. The base or liquid eg water, milk (or nut versions eg almond milk), coconut water or herbal tea (cooled) 2. A green veggie/s eg spinach, kale, silver beet/ swiss chard, lettuce varieties especially colourful romaine, bok choy, avocado…

3. A fruit eg apple, pear, banana, orange, mandarin, pineapple, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, paw paw, mango…

4. Here’s the extra fun adding a superfood/herb eg hemp seeds or oil, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds/oil, flax seeds/oil, goji berries, marine phytoplankton, aloe vera juice/flesh (peeled), coconut oil/butter/flesh, acai, macqui, lucuma…

BLEND TOGETHER AND DRINK IN LIFE. 3 CHEERS TO A SOUL-FULL LIFE

SUZANNE PARKER OF SOULLIFE PATHWAYS

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 17

OF

TALK

THE

TOWN DRYSDALE

Drysdale is geographically in the centre of the Bellarine Peninsula and is one of the fastest growing areas in Victoria. The greater Drysdale area encompasses Drysdale, Clifton Springs and Curlewis. Those of us who live here know it is one of the best places in the world to live.

I was lucky enough to grow up in Drysdale and I still am. When you talk about needing a village to bring up a child, the Drysdale area helped to do that for me and my children, my mother and her brothers before me, my grandfather and his siblings and even his father before him. Drysdale is an area steeped in history and you can almost feel it with every step. Our forefathers were clever enough to put large pieces of land aside to meet growing demands including our massive recreation reserve.

Please invest 30 minutes, park the car and walk around the reserve. Look at all the different shades of green, watch the wildlife, hear voices, enjoy the smells and just relax.

Education is at the heart of everything we do in the Drysdale, Clifton Springs, Curlewis area with 3 play groups, 3 kindergartens, 4 primary schools, 3 secondary schools, 2 child care centres and an Occasional Care Service. Opportunities for extra activities are vast Drysdale Guides, Drysdale Scouts, Youth Groups. Ballet Classes, Dance Classes, Football, Netball, Soccer, Tennis, Karate, Cricket, Golf, Fishing, Basketball, Little Athletics and so much more.

look for the Bunyip, visit the Recreation Reserve and watch all the wildlife, Beacon Point Reserve and fly kites and spot dolphins, or maybe walk along the beach and make sand castles at The Dell.

Drysdale is the home of the Bellarine Jongleurs, a theatre Company for children and they perform regularly at the Potato Shed. The Potato Shed is a fabulous asset for our community. World class performances happen at the Potato Shed and it hosts the Annual Family Fun Day during Children’s Week in October, this event attracts people from all over the Geelong area.

SpringDale has many opportunities for children through our Occasional Care Service, Monday to Friday, we have spaces for children’s birthday parties and our Family Bush Dance evenings are wonderful and very inclusive. We are always looking for ideas and would love to add to the list of opportunities for children and families.

Families can also play in the many and varied parks around Drysdale. At the Railway Station, wave to the train, or even take a journey, walk around lake Lorne and

During the school holidays, there are holiday programs running at 3 of the schools, there is a Pantomime at the Potato Shed and often there is a special activity on the Bellarine Peninsula Railway. For older students City of Greater Geelong regularly hold events and excursions.

ANNE BRACKLEY

RESIDENT OF DRYSDALE AND COORDINATOR

SPRINGDALE NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

PAGE 18 - SEPTEMBER 2014

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 19

E D U C A T IO N

5

STAGE GUIDE TO SUCCESS DISCOVER YOUR PASSION, PURPOSE & DIRECTION

The 5 Stage Guide to Success: How to discover your passion, find out what you love, discover your purpose, find direction & stick to it!

STAGE 3: TAKE ACTION

Most people don’t get what they want in life because they have no idea what they truly desire. Using this 5 stage guide you will not only unearth what you truly want in life, you will also be able to make it a reality.

Most people don’t achieve their goals quite simply because they don’t take action. The time to start is right now. The first step is often the hardest because there’s no momentum. By taking immediate action you start to build momentum which makes taking more action easier.

STAGE 1: WHAT DON’T YOU WANT?

STAGE 4: KEEP GOING

The best way to work out what you want is to first discover what you don’t want.

Get a clean piece of paper and draw a line down the middle. In the right column make a list of all the things you dislike about your life. This is your opportunity to drag out all those annoying things that you feel you have to do but if given a choice would rather not do them.

Then next to each item on your list write the polar opposite. Once you have done this you will have a list of things you want. You can then start numbering them in order of importance or priority.

STAGE 2 : SET SOME GOALS

AND CREATE A PLAN

Firstly, pick the most important thing that you want from your list and then make it more real by writing next to it when you will have it and how this will make you feel.

Then create a simple plan of how you are going to get it, being crystal clear about the very first step you need to take.

This is the other reason why most people don’t achieve their goals. After building momentum at some point you are going to hit a hurdle. This is where it looks like you are not going to get what you want. All you need to do now is just stick to your plan; just keep going with the routine that’s got you this far. If you just keep going no matter how you feel, at some point, things will turn in your favour.

STAGE 5: CELEBRATE

When you finally achieve your goal and get what you want, make sure to celebrate and reward yourself for a job well done. This will encourage you to do it all again with the next goal on your list.

Phil Schibeci is a renowned corporate speaker and workshop facilitator. He teaches businesses and organisations the skills to create positive and productive workplaces. In his book, How to Get Out of The RUT Race, Phil has put together a practical guide that provides readers with the tools to get out of a rut and achieve major life goals. For more information visit www.philschibeci.com or contact phil@therutrace.com.

PAGE 20 - SEPTEMBER 2014

R

G N I AIS

T

S R E L ODD

When fatherhood first descended upon me six years ago I had no idea what to expect. Sure, like many Dads I had done all the antenatal classes and thought I was ready, but I could not have been more wrong. A baby may be small, but there is a lot to do and I was overwhelmed; the only way I could cope was to equate fatherhood to something that I was already in possession of intimate knowledge of… owning a car!

Thus the Baby Owner’s Manual, and subsequent Toddler Owner’s Manual were born. Both of these books are instructional manuals for fathers that equate the fact that the life, care and love of your baby/toddler can be directly related to that of your car. Here’s why; both a child and a car require frequent refuelling, cleaning and regular maintenance to ensure their smooth operation and longevity.

Should you fail to keep up a regular regime in terms of these three practices both the child and the car will begin to look shabby, smell a little bit and start making horrible noises.

The ultimate manufacturer of all children is Mother Nature Heavy Industries (MNHI). And, like all good car manufacturers MNHI also offers a comprehensive warranty program on its babies, protecting the parents against any faults that may have occurred

during the manufacturing and birthing process.

The warranty however does not cover fatherly clumsiness, unforseen excretions resulting from over or incorrect feeding nor does it cover any injury or illness resulting from the purchase and use of cheap Chinese furniture which can splinter and is often still covered in lead-based paint.

Both cars and children are designed to be taken out and given a ‘run’. Nothing a baby likes more than to be out in the open air, and there is nothing a car benefits from more than being on the open road and allowed its head. Combine both of these activities to save time. Why put the baby in a pram and walk it around the block when you have got a perfectly good car sitting at home. Strap the baby into the car seat, wind down its window and take off! Both car and child will thank you.

As someone who has owned many cars but only two children I am very happy that this ratio has not been reversed. Although both can bring you a great deal of joy, the beauty of a car is that you either trade one in on another one, or you leave one in the garage while you drive the other. With kids, once you have got them you can’t give them back, and you certainly aren’t allowed to trade them in. Plus, if you have more than one, you can guarantee that they will both require attention at the same time…..no such thing as a garage for the little ones.

I am 50 now and have a six year old and a one year old, by my reckoning that means that by the time they are ready to leave home, and I have to stop looking after them, I will probably be about ready to give up my licence to drive…..which means I won’t have children or a car to be responsible for!

STEVE BEDWELL IS A COMEDIAN, FATHER OR TWO AND THE AUTHOR OF BABY OWNER’S MANUAL AND TODDLER’S OWNER’S MANUAL (ROCKPOOL PUBLISHING, $19.99), NOW AVAILABLE AT GOOD BOOK STORES AND ONLINE AT WWW. ROCKPOOLPUBLISHING.COM.AU

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 21

On Wednesday 20 September, Christian College Senior School students and teachers were privileged to meet our Foreign Minister and deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Julie Bishop MP and ask questions.

Along with Sarah Henderson, Julie Bishop had been invited by the school to hear reports from the Our World and language students on their travels to neighbouring countries. Lizzie Lowe, who had visited Vietnam, spoke of her experience working in a Buddhist orphanage, while Brayden Warren had travelled to East Timor and spoke of the school’s 10-year link with the township of Viqueque and how the students helped build and maintain facilities there. James Ponsford, a Japanese student, had spent time in Japan at Naga High School while on exchange there. He learnt independence, effective communication and coping with loneliness all while immersing himself in the Japanese culture and way of life. Edward Crofts, an Indonesian-language student visited the SMA Negeri 2 Mataram school in Lombok, which is a sister school of Christian College and he found that spending his time there reinforced his desire to continue studying languages, especially Indonesian. The school will be

adding Cambodia as another destination choice in 2015.

Julie Bishop was welcomed to the stage and spoke about her role as foreign minister and how she was aiming for a “peaceful, prosperous neighbourhood”. She spoke of The New Colombo Plan, which is an Australian Government initiative aimed at supporting Australian undergraduates to study and undertake internships in the region thereby increasing knowledge of the Indo Pacific in Australia. By 2015 the aim is to have 30 countries in the region taking part in this new plan.

Students were then invited to submit questions such as requesting information about new aid programs being offered to neighbouring countries, the Coalition’s plans to relocate asylum seekers to Australia to Cambodia, the Greater Sunrise oil fields and why the split is not equal between East Timor and Australia and also about Ms Bishop’s career. Sarah Henderson was invited to join Ms Bishop on the podium to discuss political careers for women and she described Julie Bishop as “a giant among men” and that “you have to be extraordinary to reach the position Julie has”.

VIS

FRO

JUL

IT

M H ON IE B ISH OP

Julie Bishop talking to Christian College students

Year 11 Legal Studies class with Julie Bishop and Sarah Henderson

Students Liam Nankervis and Madeline Hodge with Julie Bishop and Sarah Henderson

PAGE 22 - SEPTEMBER 2014

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 23

DO YOU

REMEMBER YOUR FIRST BIKE

? ?

Do you remember your first bike? Your first day of freedom, your own independent transport that could take you anywhere you wanted to go at the drop of a hat! It was most probably the most excited you will ever be about a bike because you were still a child with little inhibitions and low expectations.

So why did we fall in love with our first bike and why should we pass the experience on to our kids and their kids?

Tough questions with such an obvious answer that we tend to forget that as we grow older: it’s all about FUN. So what is your main role besides providing FUNding (excuse the pun)? You can accept the role of “the fun maker”! Your job is to not be boring and prescriptive about colour and style but rather assist with helping maximize the fun experience.

“So how do I do this you ask? Well consider the following:

SIZING UP: Don’t buy too small a bike because the FUN will be short-lived and you will have to replace the bike sooner than you wanted to. Don’t buy too big because it’s no FUN to feel unsafe on a “big bike you will grow into”.

FIT THEM TO THE BIKE: We all know how frustrating it

is to get into the car with the mirrors out, the seat wrong and how this can affect our driving. Well, the same goes for the bike. Ask your bike maintenance guy or girl to adjust the settings on the bike to fit your child. This will impact greatly to the FUN factor; believe me they may not get back on the bike again if you do not get it right.

PRICE: Cheap gifts provide cheap thrills that often lead to

expensive repairs and bad experiences. You don’t have to

break the bank but realise that the better the equipment, the better the experience. Quality FUN lasts longer.

IT’S A MAINTENANCE AFFAIR: Most bikes end up not being used because they are damaged. The main reasons for this are poor maintenance and bad storage arrangement like leaving bikes unprotected outside in the rain. No fun for the bikes and no fun for your child. Get into a DIY maintenance routine, preferably with your child; it is great FUN and store those bikes safely indoors.

IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR: When you decide to buy your child a bike, you also undertake to have some FUN together, so put some time aside for this and have a good look at your own bike. You may need a carrier or trailer to get the bikes to fun places, and back so get organised. It will ensure your FUN does not turn into frustration.

ARE YOU AN EXAMPLE OR AN EXCUSE: You don’t

have to be a Tour De France competitor; it’s all about you setting the example of having FUN on your bike that will encourage your kids to do the same. Remember when they are young you are their heroes so what you do, they will copy! So get your bikes sorted and get some serious FUN back into your life.

ERIK VOSLOO FOR ANY ASSISTANCE IN GETTING THE FUN BACK IN CYCLING, CALL THE BOYS AT THE PEDAL SHED

(0466465078). WE ARE BASED IN DRYSDALE AND ARE WAITING FOR YOUR CALL.

PAGE 24 - SEPTEMBER 2014

MUSIC ARTS &

MUSIC MATTERS

Music is an important part of a child’s development.

It provides many benefits for a growing baby, toddler and pre-schooler: Music encourages creativity, self-expression and self-confidence: Music allows children to extend themselves creatively (by making up new words to songs or making up their own songs); and to develop greater confidence and self-expression (by singing in front of others or by making up dance steps to their favourite song).

Music promotes speech development: Singing with your child helps them learn new vocabulary, assists with memory and teaches children about the world.

Studies have shown that children who learn music perform better in language and reading tests because beat and rhythm are integral to language.

Music develops number sense: When a child hears a number sung and sees the fingers you hold up, they make a connection between what they see and what they hear.

Music assist with motor skill development: Enjoying songs with actions enhances co-ordination and motor skill development. Developing a sense of beat is important for motor skills such as walking, skipping, galloping and running.

ACTIVITIES FOR BABIES AND TODDLERS:

Rocking unsettled babies: Babies are acutely tuned to the sound of their parents’ voices. A singing voice is soft and soothing so singing to your child is a great way to comfort them. Babies also respond to gentle patting and rocking movements.

“Nappy change time: You can make daily tasks fun by singing a made up song. Sing the following song to

the tune of ‘Here we go round the Mulberry Bush’ This is the way we change our nappy, change our nappy, change our nappy, this is the way we change our nappy on a warm and sunny morning.”

Body Awareness: Singing simple rhymes can help develop your baby’s awareness of their body. Five Little Ducks and Baa Baa Black Sheep are great songs for babies as they discover their fingers.

ACTIVITIES FOR PRE-SCHOOLERS:

Sing together: Sing short simple songs such as Rain Rain Go Away or Starlight, Starbright. Encourage your child to add actions to match the lyrics. Involving the body helps children learn, understand and remember.

Steady Beat: To reinforce a sense of beat, clap to the beat of songs, play hand clapping games or ‘tick-tock’ from side to side to slow music. Spoken rhymes promote a steady beat whilst fostering speech development. Hammer hands together to this rhyme: “PItty patty polt, shoe the wild colt, here a nail, there a nail, pitty patty polt.”

Imaginative Play: Acting out familiar songs stimulates children’s imaginations and develops creativity. Teddy Bear Teddy Bear, Miss Polly Had a Dolly and Wee Willie Winkie are good songs to act out.

Mini Maestros offer music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers across Geelong.

Participating in a music program with your child can add to your repertoire of songs and rhymes. It is also a fun and interactive way to add music to their week. For more information contact Liz & Kate on 0424 047 822 or mm.geelong@minimaestros.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 25

M US I C A R T S &

MEET QUEENSCLIFF’S

SAM NICHOLSON

WHAT INSTRUMENT/S DO YOU PLAY?

Guitar and singing...if you call that an instrument.

HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU STARTED PLAYING/SINGING?

my main passion is music, so I’d love to do it but after I get my teaching degree I’ll do it more for sure!

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

DO YOU PLAY SOLO OR ARE YOU IN A BAND?

It’s got some good aspects like Queenscliff Music Festival, Beavs Bar, Ocean Grove Chicken Shop, Barwon Club and it’s good for people who like techno..

Solo but I would love to be in a band!

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCES

Started 5 years ago (age 14)

HAVE YOU PREVIOUSLY BEEN IN ANY BANDS?

AS A MUSICIAN?

There was a band named after me a few years ago… it was called the ‘Nicholson 5’. I was in that at the start with two guys, then when I was no longer in the band, they kept the name which was classic. I have played with various artists around but haven’t written anything collaboratively

SOME OF THE VENUES YOU HAVE PLAYED?

IS MUSIC WHAT YOU WANT YOUR CAREER TO BE, OR DO YOU HAVE OTHER PLANS?

Nah it’s not but what a career it would be, definitely

Blues and rock music, mainly from the Vietnam war era Yeah I’m just starting I’ve played locally at a few places around but definitely would love more gigs Sam would love for people to message him via Facebook for any gigs. www.facebook.com/sam. nicholson.9421

PAGE 26 - SEPTEMBER 2014

COOKING SEPTEMBER & CRAFTS 2014 - PAGE 27

CRAFTS

& C O O K IN G GO L F BA LL D O G DIRECTIONS 1.

Start by gluing two balls together.

WHAT YOU NEED

2. Add a third ball 7 GO LF BA LL - HO T GL UE

FEL T CU T INT O TE AR DR OP SH AP ES FO R EAR S

1 GO LF TE E PA INT ED BL AC K RIB BO N (O PT ION AL )

SM AL L WH ITE PO M PO M SM AL L BL AC K BE AD 2 GO OG LY EY ES

3. Add the fourth ball - keep in mind that you need to put a

dab of glue wherever the balls touch - it’s surprisingly sturdy!

4. Add two above

5. Add the last ball - I put it up high, but you can put it lower for

a different look

6. Glue golf tee for tail and glue on google eyes

8. Glue on pom pom for nose and glue black bead on pom pom 10. Glue on felt ears

11. Add ribbon and note if you want!

*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.”

QUICK S MOKED

SA LMON & M ICROWAVE S CR AMBL ED EG GS

M E THOD

1. Break eggs into container. Add chives and 2 tablespoons cold

water. Whisk to combine. Cover with lid. Open vent.

3. Microwave, covered, for 30 seconds. Stir. Microwave, covered,

for 10 seconds or until almost set. Close vent. Stand for 1 minute. Top muffin with egg and salmon. Serve.

VARIATION: Try sliced leg ham or pan-fried mushrooms instead of salmon.

MICROWAVING TIPS: When making scrambled eggs, stir

mixture gently in step 2 to avoid egg becoming tough. You could also make this recipe using a small microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, leaving a 1cm vent on 1 side. Always watch eggs while cooking, as microwave power levels differ.

2 EGG S 2 TEA SPO ONS CHO PPE D FRE SH CHIV ES

1 TOA STE D MUL TIG RAIN ENG LIS H MUF FIN

25 G SLI CED CMO KED SAL MON

IN G R E D IE N T S

2. Microwave on high (100%) for 30 seconds. Stir with a fork.

PAGE 28 - SEPTEMBER 2014

THE UPSIDE OF DOWN: A MEMOIR Susan Biggar – Transit Lounge

TODDLER TAMING Dr Christopher Green Can you believe it’s been exactly 30 years since Dr. Christopher Green’s groundbreaking book, Toddler Taming, was published? You may have used this classic to tame your own kids – or your parents may have used it on you. Since it was initial publication, it’s gone on to sell over a million copies around the world, and has helped countless sleep-deprived, battle-weary parents regain their sanity. This September sees Christopher’s words of wisdom re-emerge, in a revised and updated edition that has a new emphasis on prevention as well as cure.

Once you know how to anticipate a toddler’s reaction, you are better to prepared to steer them towards a peaceful resolution - and peace is most often the most valued commodity in any house. Chris was a pioneer in the field of controlled crying; a technique that is still used to this very day by countless parents around the world, and is still being used as the foundation for many sleep clinics. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the conflicting information given to us in this modern age – whether it be from friends, family or the internet. Fads come and go, but practical, sage advice will never grow old; Toddler Taming helps clear the murky waters with tried and tested techniques and information.

Chris provides us with practical, safe advice to guide us through the toughest of times during toddlerhood, including: • His approach to discipline, based on his ABCD discipline plan • Dealing with dreaded tantrums – in public and at home • The importance of not breaking regular sleep rhythms • How to combat bedtime difficulties, including the cot escapee, night feeds, night terrors and light sleepers • His four fundamentals of toilet training • Getting them prepared for day care, pre-school and playgroup • What toddlers should eat, supported by leading Australian nutritionist Susie Burrell • How to prepare your toddler for when a sibling is on the way

Susan Biggar fell in love with a New Zealander. Maybe as an American, she saw Darryl as a ticket to an exhilarating, global life. When her first son arrived, he came with fierce blue eyes, a curly toe and cystic fibrosis. The doctors said he would be lucky to reach the age of thirty. A job offer in Paris snatched the family from New Zealand, depositing them in the city of lights, romance, and a whole new medical world. When Susan’s second baby was also born with cystic fibrosis , the insignificant worries of her old life slipped away, shifting her from ‘normal mum’ to ‘gotta-figure-out-how-to-keep-the-kids-alive-mum.’

This, and all that followed, was not what she expected. Set across the globe, in California, New Zealand, France and Australia, The Upside of Down is a story of belief, of learning that sometimes joy is a decision.

HEALTHY BOWEL HEALTHY BODY

Dr Sandra Cabot – WHAS Pty Ltd

This A to Z guide to heal the bowel is written for everyone who wants a better belly.

Everyone who has ever had a tummy ache, everyone who can’t poop the way they want to poop. There has never been another time in history when bowel related problems have affected so many people. There has never been a greater need for this timely information. This book will give you the vital principles for a healthy digestive system from the mouth to the anus. It presents the latest research and holistic strategies to overcome common bowel problems.

Includes 150 bowel friendly recipes and a low FODMAP Diet.

PEARLIE GOES TO RIO Wendy Harmer – Randomhouse Hurly-burly! Pearlie takes part in a Butterfly Carnival in Rio. When Pearlie arrives in the dazzling Tijuca Forest in Brazil, she discovers a world of creatures she’s never seen before. There are shiny beetles, and lizards that walk on water. But the most amazing creatures of all are the beautifully coloured caterpillars. Pearlie helps her new friend, Morena the Tijuca Forest fairy, prepare for a giant celebration. But some very naughty birds and a case of mistaken identity could ruin the party completely! Is it Pearlie to the rescue or Pearlie being rescued?

SKEANIE SNUG’S

SKEANIE SNUG’s are hand made from buttery soft genuine leather. These booties feature a soft suede sole, as recommended by the experts. The adjustable velcro collar keeps the shoe fitted snugly around the ankle, the teddy bear fur lining will keep little feet toasty warm and the textured suede sole provides superior grip.

Our Classic Pre-Walkers have been awarded the Seal of Acceptance by The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). All SKEANIE Shoes are designed in Australia and are Fair Trade Made. SKEANIE is an Associate Partner of The Australian Podiatry Association (NSW). Colours may vary slightly.

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

Compounding pharmacy

IVF drugs

Held Stoc in k

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

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 29

BILLY IS

A DRAGON

SERIES Nick Falk and Tony Flowers Shadow Shifter – A new, laugh-out-loud series from the author and illustrator of Saurus Street. Billy’s teenage sister has been kidnapped by werewolves, and only Billy the dragon can save her. Along with his best friend Jeanie, Benny the were-hamster and two highly trained were-chickens, Billy takes on his ultimate nemesis – Scratchhook the Shadow Shifter. But will this motley crew be enough to defeat the strongest Shifter of them all?

Eaten Alive – There’s nothing normal about Uncle Chunk.

He’s eccentric, unpredictable and full of deep dark secrets. So what’s he doing turning up at Billy’s house? He hasn’t been seen for years. Has he just popped in, or is there more to this mystery than meets a were-dragon’s eye? And that’s not the only thing Billy’s got to worry about. Miss Hicks the werewolf has returned to school and his nemesis Scratchhook is watching his every move

BALLERINA & ME

Someone special, someone dear, someone new to love is finally here!

Meet Summer, our lovable child life size ballerina doll (90 cm height) with removable tutu and dancing straps on her hands and feet. Proudly designed in Geelong, lovingly crafted from huggable soft polyester and fibre filling. Both available in two-hair style and three colours.

MO VI E RE VI EW S PLANES: FIRE & RESCUE In Cinemas: 18th September A new comedy-adventure about second chances, featuring a dynamic crew of elite firefighting aircraft devoted to protecting historic Piston Peak National Park from raging wildfire. When world famous air racer Dusty learns that his engine is damaged and he may never race again, he must shift gears and is launched into the world of aerial firefighting. Dusty joins forces with veteran fire and rescue helicopter Blade Ranger and his courageous team, including spirited super scooper Dipper, heavy-lift helicopter Windlifter, ex-military transport Cabbie and a lively bunch of brave all-terrain vehicles known as The Smokejumpers. Together, the fearless team battles a massive wildfire and Dusty learns what it takes to become a true hero.

SMIGGLE IS PAINTING THE TOWN RED!

Due to overwhelming demand from Smiggle fans, RED is joining the Smiggle colour crews! Not only is RED the colour of good luck in Chinese, or the colour that makes cars go faster, it is now the colour of your favourite Smiggle pens and pencils, lunchboxes, pencil cases, backpacks, gadgets and gizmos! Just like Smiggle, RED is joyful, energetic and happy. So this one’s for you RED fans.

Whether its stationery, backpacks, bags, lunchboxes, accessories or something special like rocket lights and money boxes, Smiggle now has it in RED. Everything is available from Smiggle stores and online. And remember, RED puts the squiggle in Smiggle!

WIN $50 PACK OF

SMIGGLE RED

Simply email us your name and number now for your chance to win! GO! GO! GO! editor@kidsvoice.com.au

SP ON SO RE D BY GEELONG

THE HOUSE OF MAGIC In Cinemas: 18th September Thunder is an abandoned young cat who stumbles into a magical old mansion operated by a dazzling array of automatons and gizmos. Owned by a retired magician, the house is occupied by an assortment of his wacky assistants who don’t all welcome the new houseguest. But when the magician lands in the hospital and his scheming nephew puts the mansion up for sale, our young hero and his new friends join forces to save their magical home.

PAGE 30 - SEPTEMBER 2014

FOOTY COLOURS DAY @ FED SQUARE Footy Colours Day – Friday September 5 - is the one day in September to have fun and help support young children and teens living with cancer through Fight Cancer Foundation.

Footy Colours Day @ Federation Square is a huge public event from 1.00pm - 5.00 pm on Friday 5 to celebrate Footy Colours Day with all things footy and fun.

This inaugural fun, family-friendly, footy-themed spectacular encourages the Melbourne public - schools, uni students, footy fans, visitors for the first AFL final, tourists and local business people to join in, have fun and support Fight Cancer Foundation.

There will be action on the main stage, on the big screen and around Fed Sq with entertainment and activities including handball competitions, freestyle footy for soccer fans, face painting, footy mascots, cheer squads, children’s activities, giveaways – all things footy. www.footycoloursday.com.au Facebook: facebook.com/FightCancerFoundation Twitter: twitter. com/FightCancerFdn Call: 03 9342 7888

MEMORY WALK & JOG Geelong will host Alzheimer’s Australia Vic’s first Memory Walk & Jog to be held on Sunday 14 September to raise vital funds for people impacted by dementia, including the estimated 3,623 people currently living with dementia in the Greater Geelong area.

The inaugural Memory Walk & Jog will be held from 8.30am on Sunday 14 September at Eastern Park, Geelong. Participants are able to choose between a 2.4 kilometre walk, 7 kilometre walk or 7 kilometre run.

The Memory Walk & Jog has something for everyone. You can run, walk, skip or even dress up and dance your way through the day! So whether you’re eight or 80, a pro-athlete or just looking for a fun morning out and help make a lasting contribution to the lives of people impacted by dementia.

For more information or to register as an individual or team, go to www.memorywalk.com.au or call (03) 9816 5746.

FOSTER CARE WEEK Foster Care Week is an annual event which aims to celebrate and acknowledge the invaluable work of foster carers. It is also a time to promote foster care in the community and raise awareness. Demand for foster carers in the Barwon region is greater than the number of foster carers recruited. There are currently many children and young people across the region living in contingency situations because there are insufficient foster carers to meet their needs.

To celebrate Foster Care Week and the extraordinary work our foster carers do, Glastonbury Community Services (Glastonbury) hosts an annual Foster Carer Appreciation Luncheon. The event acknowledges the carers’ commitment to caring and ensuring that local children and young people have a safe and nurturing home, as well as them being a crucial part of the Glastonbury care team.

Anneliese Knell, General Manager of Client Services presenting Doug and Leonie Tate the 10 Year Award for being foster carers at the 2013 Foster Carer Appreciation Luncheon

At last year’s Foster Carer Appreciation Luncheon, Doug and Leonie Tate celebrated 10 years of fostering with Glastonbury, with their current placement providing 7 years of stability, security and safety for a sibling group of five children. This year the 10 Year Award will go to another carer who has provided both short and long term care to children and young people during her time as a foster carer. Carers’ dedication and commitment to children and young people is astounding and is to be congratulated.

TRAD E Health

DIRE CTORY

IT Solutions Parties

Toy library

IT Solutions List your business in the Kids’ Voice trade directory.

carly@kidsvoice.com au

SEPTEMBER 2014 - PAGE 31

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SEPTEMBER

Australian Breastfeeding Association, Western Heights Uniting Church Hall, 27-31 Douglass St, Herne Hill. Intimacy.

10am-12pm. For more information contact Gillian Thornton on 0400 676 466

5

SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER

Footy Colours Day @ Fed Square. This inaugural fun, family-friendly, footy-themed spectacular encourages the Melbourne public - schools, uni students, footy fans, visitors for the first AFL final, tourists and local business people to join in, have fun and support Fight Cancer Foundation.

There will be action on the main stage, on the big screen and around Fed Sq with entertainment and activities including handball competitions, freestyle footy for soccer fans, face painting, footy mascots, cheer squads, children’s activities, giveaways - all things footy. This is the one day in September to have fun and help support young children and teens living with cancer through Fight Cancer Foundation. Footy Colours Day @ Federation Square is a huge public event from 1.00pm - 5.00 pm.

5

7

SEPTEMBER

11

SEPTEMBER

12

SEPTEMBER

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SEPTEMBER

Fathers’ Day

Footy Colours Day, your workplace, school or club. The one day in September to have fun, celebrate Footy and help young Aussie kids living with cancer. Football is about spirit, strength, courage and the fight to win. Those touched by cancer share a similar journey and need the same strength and courage to win their individual fight.

Each year thousands of Australians unite, wear their favourite footy colours, celebrate football and make a donation to give young Aussies living with cancer a break. Please contact Fight Cancer Foundation on 03 9342 7888 for more information.

5

will need to be accompanied by their parent / guardian for the duration of the art class. 10 - 11am. Cost $5.50 includes materials, tuition and entry to the museum

SEPTEMBER

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. All sessions fully supervised by accredited City of Greater Geelong employees.

Helmets and safety equipment must be worn at all times. 7 - 10pm. $5.00

6

SEPTEMBER

6

SEPTEMBER

Geelong Classic Dancesport festival, Club Italia

National Wool Museum, 26-32 Moorabool St. Art activity: Art on the Move; interactive tour: The Wool Harvest (transport hunt).

Crafty Kids: Pre-School Art Classes. Got a preschooler who enjoys messy play? At a loose end on a Saturday morning? Come on down to the National Wool Museum for our art classes for kids up to 5 years old.

Our friendly and fun Saturday morning art and craft classes are led by our qualified art teacher and we’ll even clear up after you! Bookings are not required, however, class size is limited to 12 children. You are welcome to attend every class or pick-andchoose sessions to participate in. Children

R U OK Day

Attitude Dance Show, The Potato Shed, Drysdale.

National Wool Museum, 26-32 Moorabool St. Art activity: Print and Stencil Art; interactive tour: The Wool Harvest (stencils). Crafty Kids: Pre-School Art Classes. Got a preschooler who enjoys messy play? At a loose end on a Saturday morning? Come on down to the National Wool Museum for our art classes for kids up to 5 years old.

Our friendly and fun Saturday morning art and craft classes are led by our qualified art teacher and we’ll even clear up after you! Bookings are not required, however, class size is limited to 12 children. You are welcome to attend every class or pick-andchoose sessions to participate in. Children will need to be accompanied by their parent / guardian for the duration of the art class. 10 - 11am. Cost $5.50 includes materials, tuition and entry to the museum

14

SEPTEMBER

Memory Walk & Jog, Eastern Park, Geelong. Geelong will host Alzheimer’s Australia Vic’s first Memory Walk & Jog to raise vital funds for people impacted by dementia. Participants are able to choose between a 2.4 kilometre walk, 7 kilometre walk or 7 kilometre run. For more information or to register as an individual or team, go to www.memorywalk.com.au or call

Free daily program including Minecraft™ themed exhibition worksheet; Minecraft™ play using M.A.D.E’s laptop and tablet devices; Minecraft ™ themed papercraft activities and cyber storytime (11am & 2pm). Find a Minecraft™ Miner: Tiny miners, their wives and children, redcoat soldiers, police troopers and even the pikeman’s dog have been turned into Minecraft™ figures and hidden around M.A.D.E’s exhibition. Use the worksheet as a guide and see if you find them all.

Minecraft Lab: M.A.D.E’s digital devices have been set up for you to use. Learn to use Minecraft™ if you’ve never tried it before or come in and show-off your expertise. The Minecraft Lab will also host a selection of papercraft activities inspired by the popular game. Cut it, fold and

colour it in, then take your creation home or leave it to be exhibited at M.A.D.E. Cyber Storytime (11am & 2pm): A colonial goldfield constructed inside a Minecraft™ terrain is the backdrop for this adventurous tale. Displayed on M.A.D.E giant, digital touchscreen, this story will take you on a block-by-block walk through of the Eureka Stockade. FREE

26

SEPTEMBER

Australian Breastfeeding Association, Bisinella Centre, 75 Buckingham St, Lara.

Our ABA group library. 10am-12pm. For more information contact Gillian Thornton on 0400 676 466

9816 5746.

16

SEPTEMBER

Australian Breastfeeding Association, Grovedale Neighbourhood House, 45-47 Heyers Road, Grovedale. Spring clean Clothes Swap.

9.30-11.30am. For more information contact Gillian Thornton on 0400 676 466

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SEPTEMBER

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. All sessions fully supervised by accredited City of Greater Geelong employees.

Helmets and safety equipment must be worn at all times. 7 - 10pm. $5.00

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OCTOBER

Minecraft activities, The Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka, Ballarat.

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

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