Family Times Christchurch Autumn 2015 by Family Times Magazine

Step-parenting

Create your own role within the family

My child is a bully

Dealing with disgraceful behaviour

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CHRISTCHURCH / ISSUE 77 / Autumn 2015

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inside this issue

Contents 5

My child is a bully

Step-parenting

Quality time

Reengaging kids in maths

Practical tips on how to change your child’s bullying behaviour. Forge your own role as a step-parent. How to make family time in a busy world. How to bring out the maths whiz in your child.

10 Science at home

Explore your own backyard and discover autumn science wonders.

11 Your child’s bad mood

Help your child learn to deal with emotions.

Kids’ corner

12 Growing pains

What are growing pains and how can you help ease them in your child?

13 Save water

25 Board games for kids

14 Natural immunity

26 Autumn camping spots

Start protector NZ’s future by saving water at home.

Fight coughs and colds nature’s way.

School fundraising teaches kids financial literacy.

15 Kids and fundraising

17 Bonding with your baby

Parent-baby attachment isn’t always an automatic experience.

24 Birthdays

Check out the latest and greatest board games for kids. The Department of Conservation recommends stunning autumn vistas.

27 Preteen corner

Eva-Maria talks step-parenting tips to win preteens.

28 Aps

How to choose a safe app for your kids.

The battle to keep up with the Jones.

18 Kids’ corner

Competitions, games and reviews.

Resource information 16 20 22 22 23 30 32

Help is at Hand Calendar of events Holiday programmes After school care Entertainment Top reads School term dates

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Contributing Writers Marcia Johnson, Eva-Maria, Tim Driver Reach us at: Family Publishers (NZ) P.O. Box 36-004, Christchurch 8146, NZ Ph. 03 355 9186 0800 285 510 Fax: 03 3559 183 Mobile. 0274 359 414 admin@familytimes.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz DistributionPrinted and distributed quarterly approximately two weeks before each major school holiday. 41,947 distributed through early childhood centres, primary and intermediate schools, Christchurch City Council offices, recreational facilities, libraries and service centres, selected medical and midwifery premises and McDonalds restaurants.The opinions expressed in this publication are not those of the publisher unless indicated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reprinted without the expressed written permission of the publisher. Family Times is not responsible for unsolicited material. Family Times is funded and published solely through the support of its advertisers. They support us, please support them.

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From the editor Letters to the Editor I was staggered when I read the statistic that as many as one in four New Zealand families are blended families.

We welcome letters to the editor. If you would like to comment on something you have read in Family Times, email editor@familytimes. co.nz. Letters may be edited for space restraints or legal reasons.

hen my next thought was; why is there not more material available for stepparents, and a greater focus on the specific parenting challenges that come with being a step-parent? Parenting itself has challenges. But stepparenting comes with a whole other set of baggage, whether the situation comes about through separation of biological parents, or death of a spouse. Having not been a step-parent myself, I can’t write from personal experience. I have, however, been a stepchild of sorts, at least when visiting my father who remarried a lovely woman who already had children of her own. In some ways, there was not so much pressure on that situation because it was always a temporary visit and I liked my father’s wife, but there was still definitely that feeling of, “where do I fit in this family,” and “these kids are not entitled to my dad’s time.” Of course, kids’ brains are not fully developed at a young age and able to process the situation from a logical perspective. Therefore, their actions are often purely from a self-preservation perspective and steeped in emotions that they may not be able to fully label or express. As such, they don’t appreciate the immense challenges that the situation presents for the step-parent. But that’s the thing about being the adult – you get to take all the responsibility and in return may receive belligerence, the silent treatment, or the dreaded, “you’re not my

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Dear editor, real mother,” (or father, as the case may be.) What I have learned through writing our main feature article about step-parenting this issue is that step-parenting is a very different experience for everyone. Some become step-parents when the child is quite young, and the adjustment isn’t as difficult. Some are lucky enough to be in a situation where the biological parents’ split was reasonably amicable, and there is not the same resentment from the biological mother toward the step-mother, or biological father toward the step-father. Stereotypes, of any sort, simply don’t cut it when it comes to step-parenting. For an insight into a step-parents’ world, and some great expert advice, check out our step-parenting article this issue. Plus keep turning those pages for more parenting, health and education articles, as well as lots of opportunities to win with our competitions and giveaways. Enjoy.

I agree with Dr Annick Masselot’s call for New Zealand to have “a conversation about reproduction and how best to support families.” However, I was concerned by some of the assumptions that underlay other comments in the article. She asserts that the reason for maternity leave is to “recover from giving birth.” That was certainly not my primary purpose in taking it - rather it was to care of my baby! To love and nurture it, and to rest myself when I could. At the conclusion of the article we read that “the main thing is that there should be choices for people.” Perhaps this is the “main thing,” but I would like to see some research to support this statement. Perhaps choices are what best leads to the wellbeing of families, but I suspect not. It seems likely to me that there are other more important factors - allowing that the well-being of families is the key issue we are discussing - such as secure loving bonds between infant and the primary caregiver (usually the mother), and warm support for

parents struggling to deal with the needs of a newborn, which is so very difficult at times. Furthermore, I consider myself a feminist and hope my daughters - and son - will grow up to call themselves feminists too. But I do think that parenting is still, and will ever be, a gendered concept. I am my children’s mother, and I delight in that role. The way I love and nurture my children, and family as a whole, is different from the way their father loves and develops them and I think that is wonderful. Eliza Bartlett Aro Valley Wellington

Dear editor,

I just wanted to say thank you for so eloquently putting across your belief in the “real” meaning of Christmas in your editor’s letter in Issue 60. I love that you have expressed your love for all parts of Christmas; the fun, lights, joy of it all, but also to pause and remember the real reason for the season. I love it all too and make my own advent calendar each year so there are days when we share our favourite carol with each other and sing and dance to them, and others days where we read the “Christmas Story” and put up our nativity scene on a window (which I printed and coloured myself due to lack of such resources). Great to have a balance of everything. Thanks heaps, Rochelle

When your child is the bully Few parents ever expect the call: your child’s school principal wants to talk to you about your child’s bullying behaviour.

or most parents, the reaction is one of disbelief, ranging from “It can’t be my child,” to “Maybe the situation has been manipulated by the other child,” to “There must have been extreme mitigating circumstances.” Horror and embarrassment is a normal reaction according The Parenting Place creative producer and presenter John Cowan. “But not always... some parents justify their child’s actions. Some see bullying as a normal and even useful part of human life and others see the persecution as being justified. By all means, emotionally support your child but that does not mean minimising the offensiveness of bullying.” No parent wants to learn the truth that their child is displaying behaviour that belittles, hurts, or abuses other children. The situation raises fear, anxiety, and defensiveness – after all, aren’t children a reflection of their parents? Cowan says not always. “All kids make mistakes. Bullying is a mistake: it is a kid trying on a dud strategy, coupled with some immature logic and immature impulse control. Therefore, any child could be a bully.”

As kids begin school, parents are no longer the sole influence around their lives. Kids have unsupervised time with other kids, and parents are not around to witness - let alone monitor - their child’s behaviour. However, experts say that it is important not to justify your child’s behaviour because of your own fear or sense of shame or failure. There can be many reasons behind bullying behaviour that may not be self-evident from the surface. Author and educator Rosalind Wiseman, who wrote the book Queen Bees and Wannabees, which inspired the movie Mean Girls, urges parents to understand that: • Roles change. Today the bully. Tomorrow, hopefully an early stage. the bullied. Children are not fixed in their Cowan recommends the following course of roles. Depending on the situation, children action to take with your child: can just as easily be the bully as they can the target. 1 Address the issue while supporting the • They have a private life. Parents must child. Even as you are telling them off assume and accept that they won’t know (and you should!) let them know that your everything that goes on with their child. main disappointment is not that they are • Kids have two sides. Children will act “bad” but that you are upset because you differently at home than they will at school. know they are a good kid and capable of • You’re still a good parent. There are better behaviour. It may be appropriate many reasons why parents aren’t aware to set penalties and wind back trust of their child’s inappropriate behaviour, around technology that has been used for and it’s not always because the parent is bullying but let them know, even as you irresponsible. are removing the trust, that you looking So, if you’ve just received that call from the forward to trusting them again. school principal, the first thing to do is to take 2 If the child doesn’t know already, you a deep breath, take a moment to process should leave them in no doubt that what you’ve just heard, and be grateful that bullying is completely unacceptable. you have been alerted. That at least gives Express it in terms of rules (kids you a chance to address the issue at what is

understand rules): no hitting, no rude or threatening talk or texts, etc.

3 Displace the need for bullying by helping

your child build their self esteem in healthier ways – opportunities to play to their strength, feeding back to them about their good qualities, etc.

4 Engineer opportunities for them to mix

in more positive groups to form new friendships where bullying probably isn’t part of the group culture (e.g. sports, scouts, youth groups, hobby clubs etc).

5 Challenge the attitudes of intolerance

that made him think the victim deserved bullying. Instead, encourage a culture of “heroism;” intervening to defend and protect in a heroic way.

6 If appropriate, seek ways that amends could be made with the victim.

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feature story

Being a step-parent We all grow up with fairytales of handsome princes, blushing maidens and happily ever after. But what if you find yourself cast as the evil stepmother?

stimates suggest that up to a quarter of New Zealand families are remarriages or new partnerships with existing children. Research also suggests that many of those new relationships won’t stand the stress of the new family unit, and will dissolve within the first few years – especially if the new family unit is established without forethought and preplanning.

Evil step-parent? Whether you are a step-mother or stepfather, you will have stereotypes to deal with. A new step-parent often enters the new family unit with a mixture of fervour and trepidation, says Christchurch-based family psychologist Prue Fanselow-Brown. But, their determination and striving to avoid the pitfalls of the archetypical “evil” stereotype often ends in tears and failure: sometimes none of their own doing, and sometimes misguided notions of how the child or children will respond to them. Step-children have undergone the loss (either through death or separation) of a biological parent, and even if that parent is not what you might regard as a good parent – if they are a criminal, a drug-addict, or simply a dead-beat – the child will usually retain strong feelings

of loyalty to that parent. The result, says Fanselow-Brown, is that a sense of betrayal may accompany any positive feelings that the child has towards the step-parent. “I think step parents need to be quite patient and lower their expectations a bit in a new relationship. “Step parents coming into that sort of relationship need to be very aware of how that feels for the child, to see their parent overtly affectionate with somebody new. That sort of affection is best to be kept away from the children initially. Be a respectable friend who will respect their needs. If you’re aware and patient, it can go very well.” In extreme cases, the child may view the step-parent with suspicion, or as a threat to their ties with their biological parent. They may try to sabotage the relationship between their parent and step-parent, act-out with behaviour issues, or seek to re-establish the relationship between biological parents. All of this is within the realm of possibilities, and couples about to embark on a journey as a daughter for five years. She says that being new blended family need to be aware of it. a step-parent has been one of the hardest definitions that she has ever struggled with. The role of a step-parent “I think the most important thing going into it Rather than try to be a parent, step-parents was knowing that I wasn’t going into it to beneed to establish their own role according to come a mother - she has one of those already. Fanselow-Brown. Primarily, at least early on, I’m just me; she’s always called me by my the step-parent’s goal is to be a warm friend nickname “Gen” and continues to do so.” to the child, she says – keeping a distance so that the child has a space in which to observe the step-parent and approach when comfort allows. That’s a strategy that has worked for stepparent Geni McCallum. Geni has been a stepmother to her seven-and-a-half-year old step-

Discipline Discipline can be a dicey subject between two partners even in their first marriage, with their own biological children. A parent’s own upbringing, the influence of

grandparents and friends, and a parent’s own individual preferences can lead to conflict when it comes to how to discipline a child. Add a step-parent into the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for catastrophe, if it’s not talked about and decided on in advance. Fanselow-Brown recommends that parents in blended families decide on support, rules, consequences and household tasks in advance, and also how to encourage adherence. She says that the “hard stuff” happens when punishments or consequences are required for defiance or failure to comply. In this case, she says that the biological parent

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feature story

The four cornerstones of good step-parenting

You and your partner are a team space has been disrupted to make room for

must adopt the lead role of disciplinarian, with the step-parent in a supporting role. Initially at least, the step-parent can perhaps stand beside the biological parent, or behind them, and nod in agreement, wordlessly. Over time, the step-parent’s role in discipline may change as they build the child’s trust and as the child begins to feel secure in the longevity of the new relationship.

place to come in and change her life around. I didn’t ever let myself be treated badly or without respect though; it’s important to stand up for yourself whilst you’re building the relationships in your family. “Just like any parent, my role changes and our relationship is fluid - it took me a while to find my place but I love it now.”

Dealing with dislike

“Once I abandoned any attempt at friendship, it took root of its own accord. They thawed visibly, and started to tell me stuff.

Author Flora McEvedy was 29 when her boyfriend introduced her to his two daughters, ages six and two. Although both parties tried, the relationship between her and the girls quickly disintegrated, as she described in an interview with The Telegraph while promoting her book, The Step Parents’ Parachute. “Most of the time, the girls Geni says that has been her experience. ignored me with studious concentration. But “I did wait for a while before I began enforcthere were also endless scenes - tantrums ing rules at the beginning because it wasn’t my thrown left, right and centre by both them

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someone who is usually seen as an intruder. In self-defence, step-children will try to hurt you because they identify you as the one who has ruined their happiness. Of course it’s difficult being treated like a criminal in your own home, but don’t take their rejection personally. They are probably feeling as paranoid and unsettled as you are.

Know your role

At the start, all you have in common with your step-child is your link with the natural parent. In time, you need to build a direct bond with the child, and, for this, you need to cultivate trust. Even when antagonism has frozen all goodwill, a compliment and a little praise go a long way. However gradually, dedicating yourself to being a positive presence in the life of the step-child will bring stability to your family. *Paraphrased from The Step-Parents’ Parachute: The Four Cornerstones of Good Step-Parenting by Flora McEvedy, available online with Amazon.

If step-children take an instant dislike to you, remember they are not biologically programmed to love you. You may bend over backwards to please them, with little or no thanks, but normal social rules do not apply. Even if the step-child seems to be punishing you for simply existing, try to understand that you may always come second to natural parents, but that second place is not so terrible.

Keep rejection at arm’s length

The arrival of a step-parent can turn a child’s world upside down. The family

and me. The girls would stand in my path whenever I approached their dad, and yelp at our friendly overtures. They’re just kids, I told myself, when they refused to eat the macaroni cheese I had cooked.” She says that she started to “burn with resentment,” because no matter how hard she tried, the situation just got worse and all her attempts to be liked were mercilessly scorned. The turning point for her began when she decided that rather than look to her step-daughters for approval, to turn to a different quarter for reward for the work she was putting in with them.

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“It dawned on me that I didn’t have to justify myself to my stepchildren, and that I hadn’t been asked to be a step-parent, but had simply become involved with someone who already had kids. So the obligation is to my partner, alone. I owe it to him to make the best relationship I can with his children. When I sweat and toil to look after a stepchild, what I am actually doing is looking after my relationship with my partner.” As McEvedy began to disengage from her need for acceptance, she found the situation began to turn itself around.

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It is natural to crave inclusion in the elite club of blood relatives, but remember you are not an outsider. You are already in a strong relationship, so don’t shut out the person who introduced you to stepparenthood. Talk to your partner about your anxieties, without criticising the child’s behaviour. Try not to compete with your step-child, and give your partner space to love you and the child separately.

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Building quality time into your day As busy parents, sometimes it feels like you are living in Ground Hog Day. The endless cycle of school, work, appointments, activities, shopping, and housework is an unforgiving daily grind that leaves little time for the simple pleasures in life - like enjoying each other’s company.

o between all the commitments facing modern families, how is it possible to spend quality time with the kids? Parenting expert and author Karyn Riley says there are two main hurdles to achieving this. “One is a perceived lack of time with our busy, often over-scheduled lives; the other is the guilt and pressure that comes with beating ourselves up over not spending “enough” quality time with our children. We all have the same amount of time available - it’s how we prioritise and use that time that makes the difference.” Karyn says that spending 5 or 10 minutes of a hundred percent present, fully-focused quality time with our kids is more beneficial than a longer period of time in which parents are distracted. “One of my favourite sayings is, “We are human beings, not human doings.” We can all

benefit by taking time out to just “be” - with our kids, partners and ourselves.” Karyn advises one way to achieve quality time is to literally schedule it into your diary. “In my experience, if you don’t plan time for what’s important it will generally never happen. Have strong boundaries in place prioritise quality time and stick to it.” What constitutes as quality time will vary between families, Karyn says. Do what suits yours, and never compare yourself to others. “There is no one-size-fits-all - quality is better than quantity. When you do spend time with your family and children, focus on this alone - not what you “should” be doing instead. Be realistic and go easy on yourself remember, “super-mum” does not exist!” kids) we feel it’s important to spend time together. We support one another in sport, so on a Saturday we generally spend all day together. We go to concerts together. We walk the Rapaki track, taking turns with the baby. Donnell is a big boy now so he can help with that!” It is a house rule that the family always eats dinner together, and sometimes they will turn off the TV and just talk. Mum of three Camdon Dudley says family “The kids think I’m a real nerd when I ask, time is key to how her family operates. Both “what was the highlight of your day,” or “did she and husband Brandon work full-time; he you meet someone new today?” But now I’ll as a building services coordinator and she find they will come to me and say “Mum, I did as a preschool centre director. With sons meet someone new today.” Donnell, 15; Troy, 9; and Eli, 20 months, the Camdon says being organised is integral. family do almost everything together including “We’ve got good systems. The kids all know housework, weekend sport and daily walks their responsibilities. If all our jobs are done around the block. then we can get back to that quality time.” “Because of the huge age gaps (between the

“What constitutes as quality time will vary between families. Do what suits yours, and never compare yourself to others.”

**Karyn Riley is a parent educator and life coach, and author of ‘How to Keep the YOU in Mum’. She was a finalist of the Westpac Women of Influence Award 2014 and winner of the Local Heroes Medal, New Zealander of the Year Awards 2012. She is mum to two daughters aged 11 and 14. Her website is www.rileylife.co.nz.

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Reengaging kids in maths Research over the past few decades shows that kids in the Western world are disengaging from mathematics by middle school (intermediate age) and not regaining that interest. The question is, why? University of Sydney researcher Andrew Martin set out to investigate why kids are switching off to maths in his 2012 report published in the Journal of Educational Psychology. And he believes that with some effort, both parents and teachers can turn the situation around. The results of his study, based on 1601 Australian middle school students from 200 classrooms in 33 schools, showed that the key factor turning kids off maths is self-efficacy: students’ sense that they are competent and able enough to solve mathematical problems. The second element critical to switching students onto maths is the value they attach to the subject, and the third element is students’ love (or lack of love) for the subject. Martin recommended that to foster and encourage kids in maths, that teachers and parents “restructure learning so as to

maximise opportunities for success,” by building on skills that students have already mastered, and helping kids set challenging but realistic goals: a challenge that is wellmatched to a child’s skill level, with clear goals and unambiguous feedback. Also, parents can demonstrate that maths is important in the real world, and make themselves a positive role model for valuing math. In fact, parents’ own interest in math is another important component that Martin identified as important to a child’s interest in math. Did you, as a parent, hate math and pass on that attitude to your kids, for example?

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MEDBURY SCHOOL OPEN DAYS 18 March, 4 May, 3 August and 27 October, 9.00am - 11.30am

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Science at home: outdoors autumn fun! As autumn settles in, the weather begins to cool down, but children still love to be outside.

Grab a trowel or small spade and dig a little trench in your garden with your child. Take time to look closely at the soil. Take out a little soil and place it on some white card. Use a magnifying glass to take a closer look. What does it look like? This makes autumn the perfect time to How does it feel? observe with your children how nature adapts What will happen if you drip water onto your to the cooler temperatures. sample? Take a family walk in the park, or around Is the soil deeper down in your trench the same? your neighbourhood, and you can all point Can you find any living creatures? out the trees and plants with leaves that are Study some worms. changing colour. Bring a plastic bag with you on your walks to collect the leaves and acorns Activity: that have fallen to the ground. When you get You will need: home, lay your new nature collection out on • 1 litre clear plastic bottle or clear glass jar. some newspaper. • Sharp tool to make some holes in the top There are lots of activities you can do with of the bottle. your nature collection. • Trowel or small spade to collect dirt. • Create a nature study – become nature • A small funnel that will fit into the top of detectives and find out what trees the the bottle. leaves came from. • Acorns are a great example to show the • A worm. life cycle of a tree. Draw pictures, or print What to do: and paste onto paper. • Place some gravel at the bottom of the • Leaf art – arrange the coloured leaves on bottle/jar. some card, glue them in place and frame. • Put layers of soil, sand and leaves and • Leaf rubbings – cover the leaf with paper grass into the bottle/jar and rub lightly with crayon – these can • (use the funnel if using plastic bottle) make great cards or pictures for gifts. • Add a little water to make the soil moist. • Acorns/nuts – with glue and imagination, these • Place grass cuttings or leaves on top. can be transformed into an acorn family. • Now find a worm and carefully put it in the Don’t forget, there is fun to be had below the bottle. ground too. Why not use one of the simplest • Watch how the worm makes tracks in the science resources out in your back garden......dirt! layers of leaves and soil. Make sure you return

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your worm to the garden after a day or two. Watch our Science Alive video to learn more about soil: http://youtu.be/p3sv8bSxPcU Science Alive are exclusively providing at-home science experiments to Family Times. Family Times would love to see some pictures of your autumn science experiment. Email to us as admin@familytimes.co.nz.

win win win Win a BoxTrolls DVD/Bluray! The BoxTrolls are a community of lovable oddballs who are raising an abandoned human boy named Eggs as one of their own. To celebrate the DVD/ Bluray release of this charming film that is bound to have you and your family chuckling away, we have 5 copies of the film for you to win! Simply go to www.familytimes.co.nz to enter. Competition ends 14 April 2015.

Managing your child’s mood We all are partial to different moods, and kids are no different. But depending on temperament, moods can change with gentle ebb and flow - or a giant swing.

ids’ moods can change in a flash – one minute they are happy, then bored; cranky, then sweet. With babies and toddlers, those mood swings are usually related to need: the need for food, a nappy change, comfort or sleep. But as kids begin to grow, they start to experience emotion and moods. It’s what they do with those emotions and moods that can set them up for a life of emotional stability or vulnerability. Helping your child to learn about their moods in a healthy way will enable them to make healthy choices, according to Carl Pickhardt, author of Surviving Your Child’s Adolescence. “No matter what your child is feeling, you first job as a parent is to empathise,” said Pickhardt. “Let your child know that you care what they are feeling and you have a sense of what they are feeling.” Also, helping them identify exactly what it is that they are feeling- or figuring out why they are in a bad mood – will teach them to look for the source of the problem and to resolve it. It’s about helping your child learn a key skill: How to bring herself back up when she’s feeling down, said Pickhardt, and teaching her how to do that it in healthy ways; i.e. not eating junk food or binge watching television to numb the feeling. After all, everybody gets

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sad, mad, or upset sometimes; the key is knowing that you don’t have to stay that way, and how to find happiness again. Teaching those skills from a young age ensures that your child has an open line of communication with you, and feels free to discuss their feelings or mood with you as they embark on preteen years, and even teen years.

“Teaching those skills from a young age ensures that your child has an open line of communication with you.”” Here are a few basic emotions to help your child identify from a young age:

1 Sadness. Sadness is a normal emotion

that human beings feel, for a variety of reasons. Try to talk with your child to identify the source of their sadness. Start the conversation by trying to label the emotion: “I notice that Tommy didn’t play with you today. Is that making you feel sad?” Sadness may not be resolved in a moment, but talking – or even going out for a walk - certainly takes the sting out of it.

2 Anger. Some kids have a more explosive

temper than others, but even those who are quietly angry experience the stress of this emotion. Find out why your child is angry, and ask him what would make him feel better. For example, if another child snatched his toy, it’s not okay to snatch it back, but perhaps ask for it to be returned. Don’t tell him that he shouldn’t

be angry – suppressing anger can be dangerous, but learning to manage it and to let go is healthy.

3 Disappointment. Things don’t always go

the way that we want. Maybe your child doesn’t get that part in the school play or a position on the soccer team. It’s important to acknowledge those feelings, and the fact that we don’t always get what we want. Allow the disappointment and the hurt, and teach them not to pretend that they don’t care, but how to focus on another goal or desire and to keep trying.

Your business could been seen in this space Please contact us to discuss 0800 28 5510 admin@ familytimes.co.nz

Growing pains If achy legs are keeping your child awake at night, chances are they are experiencing growing pains.

months or even years. Most children feel pain in the late afternoon and evening, right before dinner time, and at bedtime. The leg pains may hurt so much that they may wake your child from sleep. If your child seems perfectly fine the next day, etween 25-40 per cent of children don’t be quick to think he or she was faking experience growing pains, which most – it is normal for growing pains to disappear commonly strike during two particular stages in the morning. They usually do not interfere of childhood: in 3 to 5-year-olds and again in with the child’s ability to play sports or be 8 to 12-year-olds. The intensity of the pain active. varies from child to child. Although they are called “growing pains,” Growing pains usually cause an aching or there’s no evidence that growth actually throbbing feeling in the legs. This pain often hurts. The cause of the pain is unknown. occurs in the front of the thighs, the calves or Growing pains don’t usually happen where behind the knees. Usually both legs hurt. growth is occurring or during times of rapid Some children may also experience abdominal growth. pain or headache during episodes of growing It’s been suggested that growing pains may pains. The pain doesn’t occur every day. It be linked to restless legs syndrome. But comes and goes, and may be experienced for muscle pain at night from overuse during the

Marathon returning to Central City It’s official … the new-look Christchurch Airport Marathon is under starter’s orders for Sunday 31 May, back within Christchurch’s four avenues on a new course that promises to re-invigorate both the event and the central city. For three decades the Christchurch Airport Marathon had been the South Island’s premier marathon event, but the February 2011 quake wrecked the traditional Town Hall venue and iconic course. In the five years since, the marathon organisers pulled together alternative events in Lincoln for 2011 and then at Christchurch Airport for the past three years.

But in 2015 the 35th Christchurch Airport Marathon will be back in the city, based at Cathedral Square and taking in iconic landmarks such as Canterbury Museum, Hagley Park, Oxford Terrace and the Avon River. With a full marathon, half marathon, 10k and the hugely popular kids’ mara’fun, this is an event for runners and walkers of all age, ability and aspirations. Every finisher receives a 35th anniversary medal and every entrant goes into a draw to win a trip to the 2016 Paris Marathon. Scheduled for Sunday 31 May, entries are now open at www.christchurchmarathon.co.nz.

NEW CITY COURSE

day is thought to be the most likely cause. Overuse from activities such as running, climbing and jumping can be hard on a child’s musculoskeletal system.

“Although they are called “growing pains,” there’s no evidence that growth actually hurts.” A doctor can usually diagnose growing pains by examining your child and asking questions about his or her medical history and symptoms. It is important to rule out any other possible causes of the pain before making the diagnosis of growing pains. It is particularly important to see your doctor if the pain is persistent, is following an injury, or is associated with a fever, rash, limping or any other unusual or seemingly unrelated symptoms. Your doctor might order x-rays or blood tests if it is suspected something more serious is going on. There is no specific treatment for growing pains. During the day, doing stretches before and after physical activity could help as a preventative measure to ease soreness from overused muscles. To relieve symptoms, try massaging the area, apply a heating pad or warm cloth, or jumping in the bath or shower. If pain persists, consult your doctor about using pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Even a visit to the chiropractor could be beneficial. The good news is that growing pains don’t last forever – most children grow out of them in a few years.

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15 fun ways your family can save water water usage by making these simple steps New Zealand has lots of Save water outdoors: Re-using and recycling: towards a brighter environmental future. 8 Use a broom, not a hose, to clean the 13 Use leftover drinking water to water water right? Well, yes, and driveway and paved areas. house plants instead of tipping it down Help your family to save no. Canterbury alone has 9 Wash your bike or car with a bucket the sink. water indoors: and sponge instead of a hose. experienced some of its 14 Kitchen garbage disposal units need your kids to turn off the tap 10 Water your garden during the coolest a lot of water to function properly. lowest rainfall in 43 years this 1 Teach when they brush their teeth. part of the day. If you do it in the heat Put scraps in your green organic waste summer, and many regions of 2 Turn off the shower while you soap up of the sun the water evaporates before bin instead, or even better, start your the South Island are declared or shampoo your hair, then on again to the plants get a chance to drink it. own compost bin. rinse. in drought. 15 T hose truly dedicated to water Fix leaks: 3 If you take a bath, fill it with only as

ecause of New Zealand’s “clean green” reputation, it can be easy to forget that our water supplies still need protecting.

Water conservation starts at home, where our daily use of taps, hoses, dishwashers and toilets all add up to some unsightly numbers. Fortunately, you can dramatically reduce your water usage by making a few small changes to your daily habits. Saving water at home is a great way to teach your children the importance of sustainability. Every family can take responsibility for its own

much water as you need. See if you can keep your shower to five minutes – try timing yourself next time you hop in. Cutting your shower time by two minutes daily will save you 12 hours a year! Only turn on your dishwasher when it’s full. Don’t use the toilet as a rubbish bin – only use it to flush sanitary waste. Avoid running tap water until it’s cool by keeping a drink bottle in the fridge.

Mainland Football Have a ball: join one of Mainland Football’s action-packed holiday programmes for some outdoor or indoor fun! And now, Mainland Football is also offering a Futsal holiday programme; New Zealand’s fastest growing indoor sport. Develop your football skills in a fun, child-friendly environment. Mainland Football’s holiday programmes are available for kids (boys and girls) aged 7 to 14-years-old and not just for beginners; the programme is also a development

opportunity for those already in the game. Each day includes skill-based training, so kids can learn football tricks and techniques to become better players. There are also plenty of chances to play football games in a fun environment, and experience the thrill of putting those skills into practice. The programme is available from one to three consecutive days per week, $35 per day. More information visit www. mainlandfootball.co.nz.

11 Leaking taps, shower heads, toilets, and

hoses can waste litres of water every day. 12 Try this fun experiment – put some food colouring in your toilet’s water tank and if the colour shows up in the bowl without flushing you have a leak!

conservation could capture shower water while waiting for it to heat, or install a rainwater tank to collect run-off from your gutters. This water can be re-used for watering the garden or washing the car.

Canterbury Swim School Canterbury Swim School - Christchurch’s premier swim school, based at the Waitaha Aquatic Centre in the Hornby/Yaldhurst area - opened in July 2013. It is the creation of nationally accredited coaches Huia Mikara and Jenny Jones, as well as businessman Chris Hurley, who saw a need for an aquatic facility in western Christchurch. Open also to the casual swimmer, the centre combines the best of both worlds – a private pool with public swimming. Apart from Huia and Jenny, Canterbury Swim School has 10 highly-skilled and motivated tutors and offers lessons for all ages – babies through to mature adults. “Our six lane, 25m lap pool and four lane learn-to-swim pool means we’re a one-stop shop,” Jenny says. “Apart from swim lessons

we also offer masters’ training programmes, high-performance training for triathletes, as well as competitive swimming via the Waitaha Swim Club which is based here.” Waitaha Aquatic Centre’s state-of-theart filtering system features unsurpassed water quality with no chlorine smell. The 32-degree teaching pool has a specially constructed floor to reduce impact on the body and is extremely popular with those needing hydrotherapy. The learn-to-swim pool is also a popular pool party venue, and the bleacher seating (which easily seats up to 180 people,) means the centre is an ideal venue for sporting events. An extensive range of Speedo and Zoggs swimwear and accessories is also available onsite.

Play Football these holidays. Every day from 9am to 3pm. Outdoor and indoor locations available. Online registration. FOR MORE INFO VISIT

mainlandfootball.co.nz

Canterbury Swim School is more than just a swim school. It’s the best of both worlds – a private pool with public swimming. We teach all ages and levels, from babies through to nationally competitive squads, masters, and triathlon. If you’re wanting to swim laps check out our state-of-the-art 25m pool. Or, if it’s hydrotherapy you’re after our 32° 10m pool is just the thing.

Discover the Little Blue Penguin in its natural habitat. Guided tours depart every evening prior to dusk. Bookings can be made at the Royal Albatross Centre or online. The Royal Albatross Centre is open before each tour for ticket sales and assembly.

Bookings for Blue Penguin evening tours are recommended.

Book now online at www.bluepenguins.co.nz For more information call 027 BPenguin (027-273 6484)

25 Charente Way, Yaldhurst. Phone 03-260 2220 www.canterburyswimschool.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz

Boost your child’s winter immunity With winter days just around the corner, it’s a great time to prepare your little ones’ immune systems to protect them against coughs and colds.

t’s perfectly normal for kids to contract colds and flu as their inexperienced immune systems battle an ongoing series of germs, viruses and other organisms. But there are ways that you can help them form healthy and strong immune systems that will stay strong throughout the winter onslaught.

1 Healthy food choices Children’s immune systems can take a hit if they’re constantly being bombarded with food intolerances, additives, preservatives, and sugar. Sugar has been shown in many clinical trials to actually suppress immunity. So while we naturally want to eat more to prepare for winter, it’s really important to watch what it is that we eat. Reducing the overall intake of additives and sugar can really boost your child’s immune system. Instead, focus on plenty of fresh veggies, whole fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, eggs and meat as much as possible.

Vegetables and fruits such as carrots, green beans, oranges and strawberries all contain immunity-boosting phytonutrients such as vitamin C and carotenoids. Phyonutrients are believed to increase the body’s production of infection-fighting white blood cells and interferon, an antibody that coats cell surfaces, blocking out viruses. New Zealand’s Ministry of Health recommends eating five-plus servings of fruit and vegetables a day – that’s about two tablespoons for toddlers, and one cup for older kids.

2 Good quality sleep Studies show that sleep deprivation can make you more susceptible to illness by reducing natural killer cells. Under-fives in day-time care are particularly at risk: not only are they surrounded by the bugs that other kids bring in, but all the activity going on can make it difficult for them to relax and have a day-time nap. Toddlers need between 12-13 hours of sleep a day, and preschoolers need about 10. If your child won’t take a day-time nap, try an earlier bedtime.

3 Guard against germ spread Fighting germs doesn’t technically boost im-

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4 De-stress and de-clutter In today’s fast-paced world, parents are overstressed, children are over-scheduled, and everyone suffers. Children’s bodies have the same response to stress that adults’ do — their cortisol and adrenaline rises. When this elevation in stress hormones is sustained, their immune systems’ response is lowered. It’s important for children to have lots of down time, time for creative play, and simply times of rest. Busy bodies need to take a break every now and then for their immune systems to thrive.

Canterbury Playcentres Building confident, happy, and intelligent kids: it is our job. It is what we are good at! Standard practice at Playcentre is educational, fun, and engaging, which makes for a stimulating learning environment. Playcentre is a hub of interaction; a place where children can explore their world in a safe and secure space. Playcentre boasts one of the lowest child/ adult ratios in the early childhood education sector because parents, caregivers and coordinators are on hand to assist, challenge or extend when needed.

The Apothecary

Owned & operated by Kiwi families

The respected ECE choice for families

munity, but it’s a great way to reduce stress on your child’s immune system. Make sure your kids wash their hands often, and with soap. You should pay particular attention to their hygiene before and after each meal and after playing outside, handling pets, blowing their nose, using the bathroom, and arriving home from day care. When you’re out, carry disposable wipes with you for quick cleanups. To help kids get into the hand-washing habit at home, let them pick out their own brightly coloured hand towels and soap in fun shapes, colours, and scents.

The Apothecary’s children’s clinic is running again this year. With success last year in helping children with behavioural challenges, sleep issues and general health, The Apothecary owner Simone Reddington says parents need to know that they can treat these issues with safe and effective herbal remedies without the side effects of conventional treatments. The Apothecary specialises in herbal treatments as well as nutrition. Reddington says there are a lot of herbal medicines that can treat brain function successfully without having to resort to drug treatments. Reddington is passionate about treating children with these kinds of problems early in life because it leads to greater long-term responses.

The Playcentre facts: Trained and highly skilled co-ordinators. Licensed ECE provider by the Ministry of Education. • Respect and value for parents as the child’s first educator. • Mixed-age sessions from birth to school age. • Free educational seminars. To find out more about what we can do for you and your family, phone 03-377-2540 or visit www.canterburyplaycentre.org.nz.

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Holiday programmes Active Kids is a fun, safe and affordable holiday option that combines sport, fundamental skills and a mixture of offsite visits and creative activities.

• Tuesday 7 - Friday 17 April 2015 • Morning and full day options • OSCAR approved programme Bookings open 2 March

For more information or to register visit: www.sportcanterbury.org.nz

Why fundraising is a good thing the goal that they have set, or that has been As your child drags home 1 Have a goal 4 Communication and set for them, or because they don’t believe Almost all fundraisers have a goal amount that interpersonal skills another giant box of cookies that their child can do it of their own accord. they need to raise, whether it’s a local notWhether it’s door knocking (with a parent), for sale, or tickets to the latest for-profit or your child’s school fete. Within However, learning to be organised, make a calling people to ask for donations, or setand not leave the fundraising to the last school raffle that you need to that wider goal, your child can be encouraged plan ting up a booth at a local mall, your child will minute is a great life lesson to learn – whether to set their own goal of how much money have to learn how to effectively communicate palm off, the temptation is to they would like to raise in support. Maybe it’s they succeed or fail. about the fundraising project, their personal sigh in frustration. a whole box of chocolate they need to sell, goal, and why it’s worth the investment. 3 The value of money or a dollar value that they want to reach, i.e. “Oh no, not again! We just finished the bake sale!” But fundraising has its benefits for youngsters, and research shows that it’s a great way for parents to teach philanthropy, and that helping others can be fun while also building and supporting the kind of community that you want to live in. Young children generally become involved in fundraising as a result of a school activity or parental involvement. As children become older, their ideas of philanthropy expand and their acts of helping and sharing increase with their new understanding of volunteerism and basic financial concepts. Children involved in fundraising are also committed to their causes. It’s important to involve children in philanthropic activities when they are young because as they grow, these behaviours will become second nature to them. Additionally, fundraising gives children a sense of empowerment. Children do not often have the monetary resources available to them to bring about change, but through fundraising, they can acquire the financial means necessary to begin the process of change. They see first-hand that they have the ability to make a positive change in their communities. And there are some practical life skills that fundraising can help your child learn.

The number one pitfall for parents is taking over the fundraising project. This may be because they feel their child will never reach

Learning the price of a dollar is a lesson that is never in vain. Explain that some people in the world live on just one dollar a day, and then show your child your grocery bill. Or let them experience how much effort and work it takes to sell chocolate and raise $100, and then how far that $100 goes towards building his new school playground.

Canterbury Home Educators Inc

Lindisfarne nursery school

Home education is a world in which your children learn with confidence and flourish. You can tailor your children’s learning to their individual needs, abilities and preferences - and you won’t be alone. Canterbury Home Educators Inc provides access to a wide network of resources and a full calendar of activities and learning opportunities such as camps, sports, life skills, arts, languages, tutorials etc. Parents enjoy contact with parents and children make firm friendships for life. For information, email CHEInc@ free.net.nz and ring your Ministry of Education office for a free homeschooling information pack.

Lindisfarne is an independent nursery school, founded in 1987. The teachers provide a programme that promotes independent thinking, social competence and skill development. The aim is to have happy, settled children who enjoy an environment that fosters a love of learning, a respect for all people, and a sense of confidence and self-worth. Lindisfarne encourages you to visit the nursery school and collect a full information booklet. The teachers will be delighted to meet you and your child, and welcome you to Lindisfarne. Further information is available at www. lindisfarnenursery.school.nz.

if they are doing the 40 Hour Famine. Either way, it’s a great way to help them identify a challenging but reachable goal.

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First four weeks free! Flexible booking hours

Rangiora – 313 5675 Mairehau – 385 8311 Shirley – 385 9577

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Canterbury Home Educators Inc (CHE) is a large and well established support network for families who choose to home educate. To help you find out more about home education and the network and resources available to you CHE runs regular information meetings.

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Did you know that there’s a large amount of unwanted money out there? Apparently, there’s approximately $80m in old coins and some $36m in bank notes plus loads of foreign cash. The Lions’ HU4K project collects everything from pre/old decimal currency and bank notes through to any foreign currency. The magic of this collection is taking something that doesn’t have much use and turning it into something really positive – life changing opportunities for Kiwi teens. Please take your old NZ/foreign money to any Resene ColorShop or selected New World Supermarkets. It’s as easy as that! Many thanks to Fastway Couriers, Resene ColorShops, New World Supermarkets and all New Zealanders for their on-going support.

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support services

Support for separated parents Find out about the support services available to separated parents wanting to reach agreement over the care of their children.

s a separated parent, Mary wanted to make changes to the child care arrangements she and her ex-partner John had in place for the last three years. Mary’s son was about to start primary school and she was worried that John taking over care on Monday mornings might not work because he lived some distance from the school. While Mary and John were on speaking terms, she did not feel confident raising these issues directly with him. Have you found yourself in this situation, or are you recently separated and unable to reach agreement with your ex-partner over the care arrangements for your children? While most parents are able to agree on how to look after their children, some benefit from support. A number of new services in the community to assist people to resolve their care arrangements without the need to go to court were introduced by the Government in March 2014. As a first step you may find that developing a parenting plan, in discussion with your expartner, is a useful process for agreeing on care arrangements. The parenting plan is a useful resource, which will help you think about all the things that may happen and help you to reach agreement. The parenting plan and other useful guides are on the Family Justice website (see below). Separating parents are also able to attend the free information programme Parenting Through Separation, which is run by non-

P.O. BOX 16554, HORNBY, CHRISTCHURCH Canterbury Speakeasy is a stuttering support group. We meet at the University Speech Disorders Unit every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 7.30pm.

profit organisations throughout the country. This programme has helped thousands of families and gives practical advice to help you deal with separation and the affect it has on your children. It will also help you plan how to care for your children after you’ve separated. To find your nearest programme click on the “who can help” tab on the Family Justice website. This information and advice may be enough to reach agreement with your ex-partner on the care arrangements for your children. However, if like Mary you feel it would be helpful for a neutral professional to assist you both to reach agreement, then you may like to contact a Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) provider. The FDR provider’s role is to help

The Special Needs Library

The Special Needs Library in Huxley Street lends educational, learning, recreational and therapeutic resources to children and adults throughout Canterbury. Charlotte Ganderton, a trained professional, is the resource advisor who is available to advise on the use and suitability of resources relevant to the client’s needs. With more than 3000 resources, the library is a treasure trove of items for hire: for instance, resources for gifted children and English as a second language. Interesting speakers for groups, agencies, and service groups are available. Phone Charlotte direct on 03-332-0731, or all other enquiries to 03-332-0733.

Educational and Therapeutic Resources • Stimulation • Challenge • Early learning skills • Language development • Co-ordination • Sight and hearing

OPEN Tues,Thurs 10am~4.30pm Sat 10.00am Christchurch ~Noon

For more information Phone Barry Hay: 03-981 8593

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TOUGH LOVE® www.toughlove.org.nz Phone: 03-337 9452 Freephone: 0800 868 445 E-mail: toughloveusi@xtra.co.nz 16

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agreement. FDR places less strain on your children, as it helps you keep their interests at heart and resolve issues without the stress of going to court. Alternatively, there are other public services available that can help. You can find these on the Family Justice website or you can seek advice from your local Citizens Advice Bureau. The family justice website is www.justice.govt. nz/family-justice.

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Sometimes you need some Catholic information or an answer to Social Help is Services a curly question. Why not Parenting and @ hand pick up the phone and call family support the relative support agency? programmes open to all, free You’ll find professional caring of charge. Usual office hours with late night on people ready to assist you. Tuesdays ‘till 6.30pm by appointment. Christchurch 336 Cashel Street, P O Box 4237, Christchurch. Phone: 03-379 0012 Resettlement Services. Free social services for people from refugee Angel Fund Wahine Putea and migrant backgrounds. Interpreters are provided. Phone: 03-335 0311

Women’s Centre – Christchurch

A safe women-only space run by women for women. We provide: • Information and resources • Free legal advice • Free counselling • Courses • Drop-in 10 am-2 pm, Monday to Friday Contact us: 03-371 7414 or 022-105 5308 Email: support@womenscentre.co.nz www.womenscentre.co.nz

A Women’s Savings and Loan Fund. Don’t let money hold you back. Save with the Angel Fund and build a nest egg. Wanting to step ahead in small business, education or training? No interest loans to $500 available to women on low incomes. Text or phone 022 412 6435, email angelfund@gmail.com

The Immunisation Advisory Centre

The Immunisation Advisory Centre is an independent source of evidence-based information on immunisation and vaccines. For questions about vaccines or diseases Phone: 0800 IMMUNE (466 863) or visit immune.org.nz

ADHD and NUTRITION RESEARCH

Does your child suffer from ADHD? Are you interested in treatment alternatives to stimulant medication?

If your child is aged 8 to 12, in Christchurch (or able to travel), not currently taking any medication... you could be part of an exciting study testing a micronutrient treatment for ADHD.

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I’m smart so why do I have such trouble with learning? Finally there is an answer...

Group meets weekly. Come along and find support and new ideas to make positive changes and regain control.

you both reach an agreement on how to best care for your children. The FDR provider is not there to take sides but is there to guide you to find solutions that work for you both and work for your children. The FDR provider may also suggest you get legal advice if you haven’t already. If you are eligible, you may be able to get free advice from a Family Legal Advice Service lawyer. More than 80% of people who have gone through FDR have been able to reach

can unlock the key to your learning.

Removing limitations for Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADD and other challenges.

www.optimumlearning.co.nz Melanie Curry

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To find out more, visit http://bit.ly/childadhd or contact kathryn.darling@pg.canterbury.ac.nz Phone: 03 364 2987. ext 7705

Bonding with your baby You’ve been waiting nine months for this little bundle of joy to come into your life, and finally, after the pain of labour, your precious little one looks up at you in wonder and expectation. What do you feel in that moment?

delivery. Sometimes it takes weeks, or even months, before that bond is secured. The reason could be a sick baby in intensive care that you are unable to hold, a multiple birth, an adoption, feeling overwhelmed at the arrival of your baby, sheer exhaustion after childbirth, a traumatic birth, or any number of factors. It’s quite normal, and experts say that it’s really important not to feel guilty over something that you have no control over. In fact, increased stress levels over the issue are counter-productive to relaxing into a relationship with your child.

baby & toddler

Dads and adoptive parents Bonding frequently occurs on a

different timetable for dads and adoptive parents, partially because they don’t have the early contact of breastfeeding that many mothers have. There are many ways to start and strengthen that bond, and the earlier the better. Where possible: • Participate in the labour and delivery of your child. • Feeding: where baby isn’t being breast- fed, bottle feeding (either formula or expressed Many mothers describe the experience as breast milk) helps establish a bond. How to create – or “complete euphoria,” surpassing any other • Read or sing to baby. strengthen – that bond feeling of love or affection. It’s a special • Give baby a bath. Experts recommend skin-to-skin touch attachment, or bonding, that takes place • Mirror baby’s movements. between mother and child. But not all births – immediately after birth, for both mum and • Mimic baby’s cooing and other or all bonding experiences – happen that way. dad, to start the bonding process. But bonding vocalisations — the first efforts at happens in many ways over time. When you communication. What is bonding? look at your newborn, touch her skin, feed her, • Use a front-baby carrier during routine Bonding refers to the special attachment that and care for her, you’re bonding. Rocking your activities. forms between a mother and father and their baby to sleep or stroking her back can establish • Let baby feel the different textures of your new baby. That bond is what sends parents rush- your new relationship and make her feel more face. ing into their newborn’s room in the middle of comfortable. When you gaze at your newborn, the night at the slightest whimper. It’s also what she will look back at you. In mothers who makes parents want to instinctively care for and breastfeed, their baby’s cries will stimulate the nurture their child, and attend to the variety of let-down of milk. cries that they exert to express their needs. For many parents, bonding is a byproduct of Some Advice from Fertility Associates everyday care giving. You may not even know medical director Dr Sarah Wakeman, How is bonding formed? it’s happening until you observe your baby’s MBChB, FRANZCOG, CREI. The hormone oxytocin, which is released first smile and suddenly realise that you’re The New Year and holiday break is often during pregnancy and in greater amounts filled with love and joy. a time to contemplate what is important during labour, helps to create a feeling of and make plans to get started on things we euphoria and love for your newborn. You may The importance of bonding have been putting off. As a result, we often feel an overwhelming urge to protect your The parent-child bond is a key factor in the see women in the early months of the year baby from the first moment you see her. And way that your infant’s brain organises itself and having decided that “this is the year for a while you’re savouring the high, the feel-good influences their social, emotional, intellectual baby – let’s make it happen.” hormone dopamine that’s coursing through and physical development. A secure bond The biological clock is the most important your body is also helping your baby to attach provides your baby with an optimal foundation factor when having a baby. The online emotionally to you. for life: eagerness to learn, healthy selfbiological clock at fertilityassociates. awareness, trust, and consideration for others. When bonding isn’t formed An insecure attachment bond – one that co.nz. or App can tell you how long to try immediately naturally, before seeking help. The Antifails to meet your infant’s need for safety and Not every mother feels an instinctive bond with understanding – can lead to identity confusion, Mullerian Hormone (AMH) test to estimate her child at birth. In fact, studies have shown ovarian reserve can help identify who may learning difficulties, and a struggle to relate to that about 20% of new mums (and dads) feel no others in later life. such bond in the hours immediately following

New Year, new baby – Fertility Associates

e Capturing th ents precious mom with your loved ones. Breastfeeding support in many ways Meet breastfeeding mothers ContaCt a trained breastfeeding counsellor Read a book from our library BRowse our website Join and receive aroha magazine Buy books and leaflets donate to help La Leche League help more mums like you.

experience early menopause. If you have other conditions such as polycystic ovaries or endometriosis, it is also recommended that you seek advice early to understand their potential impact on your chances. It’s important for the male to be tested too: of the couples we see, approximately 50 per cent are experiencing fertility issues that stem from the male – so if it is taking longer than you think it should, don’t leave him at home. Not met Mr Right? You do have options too, and you could benefit from talking through your options with one of our Fertility Associates CREI qualified Fertility Specialists. For a Free Nurse Consult phone 0800-255-522.

Fertility questions? Take the first step

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www.familytimes.co.nz

KIDS TIM E

o s t o n e h T

e l b m u H g o d t o H

Welcome to Kids’ Time at Family Times. Enjoy the fun activities and competitions. For competitions, enter online by visiting www.familytimes.co.nz and click on the competitions link. Looking for some rainy day activities for your children? Click on the For Kids section on our website for answers and for further activities your children can print out and complete.

Search - a- word 17. Sleep in a tent 19. The sixth month of the year 20. French way to say goodbye 21. Sharp spike on a rose bush 22. Spotted pattern, ... dots

Quality made FUN food

DOWN 1. Breakfast rasher served with eggs 2. Garden leaf scraper 4. Boy and girl, or lad and ... 5. Bread maker 6. Sound that bounces back

ACROSS 1. Goat’s chin bristles

10. Jump on one leg

3. Go up a ladder or stairs

12. ... or her

7. Hits with foot

14. A group of eight musicians

8. Story opening, ‘... upon a time’

15. Dive into a pool and ...

9. One, two, buckle my ...

16. Striped African mammal

11. Supermarket

18. Gloves and shoes are sold in a ...

13. Kitchen sink fittings

19. Japanese martial art

spot the difference Can you spot differences

Ovenbake from freezer to table in 15mins Perfect for after school, after sport or any special occasion party food. 16 mini-hotdogs in a handy resealable pack; loved by children & adults. You’d be barking mad not to try them!

win win win Win delicious Edible Blooms

howlerhotdogs.co.nz Available in the freezer department of participating supermarkets nationwide.

$1 18

www.familytimes.co.nz

OFF

VOUCHER

Check out our facebook page to download your voucher

Edible Blooms New Zealand offers a unique twist on flowers and gift hampers. Their range of chocolate flower bouquets, fresh fruit bouquets, cake pop blooms and gourmet gift baskets can be ordered easily online and delivered New Zealand wide. Created with top quality ingredients and packing a real “wow” factor, they make perfect gifts. www.edibleblooms. co.nz is giving you the opportunity to win one of four of their gorgeous Happy Blooms valued at $79. Visit www.familytimes.co.nz to enter the draw. Competition entries close 14 April 2015.

win win win Spongebob Squarepants prize pack To celebrate the launch of Spongebob Squarepants: Sponge out of Water, we have four of these fantastic prize packs from Paramount pictures to give away: Each prize pack contains: 1 x Spongebob in-season double pass (two seats each) 1 x Spongebob bath plug 1 x Spongebob ice lolly moulds 1 x Spongebob waterproof speaker 1 x Spongebob ball game Competition closes 14 April 2015 – visit www.familytimes.co.nz to enter.

Our kids activities are proudly sponsored by Homestyle yummy Ouryoghurt. kids activities are proudly sponsored Homestyle yummy yoghurt. For more printable activitiesbygo to www.yummyyoghurt. Forco.nz/kids/ more printable activities go to www.yummyyoghurt.co.nz/kids/ Homestyle yummy yoghurt base and culture has no added sugar Homestyle yummy andhealthy culture choice has no added and a and a mild tasteyoghurt so it’s abase perfect for kidssugar and grownmild taste it’s to a perfect healthy choice for kids and and is grown-ups. It’s easy ups. It’sso easy make in any yoghurt maker a great source of to calcium make in any and yoghurt protein.maker and is a great source of calcium and protein. Available in selected supermarkets and online www.yummyyoghurt.co.nz Available in selected supermarkets and online www.yummyyoghurt.co.nz

MAZE Find your way through the maze

Maze S POT T HE DIFFERENCE Can you spot differences

Fay Fay and and Jane Jane Birkinshaw Birkinshaw

by by Rita Rita Angus Angus

Rita Angus Angus painted painted this this picture picture of of sisters sisters Fay Fay and and Jane Jane with with their their toys. toys. Rita The girls look very similar, but in what ways are they different? List List four four things things that that are are different. different. 1. 1. 2.

Desig n com petition 3.

3. 4.

DE S I G N CO MPETITION

Design a fabulous, magical Easter Egg Hunt in preparation for the Easter Bunny’s April adventures and describe what’s happening in your design. Send us your picture (either via post 116 vegetables. Design a spring outfit out of flowers and or email) and youmade will be in to win a wonderful prize Itpack for creative kiwiyour kidsmum, from your Crayola. could be for you, dad or anyone else. Please describe what is made out of. entry Send us your picture and be in to9-12. There are itthree separate age groups: 1-4, 5-8 and your$50 design an A4 sheet of paper and either post it win Create an amazing prizeon pack from Crayola! orentry scan age and groups: email itpreschool to us. Don’t to write/type your name, Three (ageforget 1-4), 5-8, 9-12. age, description postal (so wethe cantemplate send you your prize if you win!). Post: Create your design onand an A5 sheetaddress or download and PO Box 36 004, Christchurch 8146. Email: jackie@familytimes.co.nz - Entries close 1 entry form from www.familytimes.co.nz. Post in to PO Box 36 2015. 004,May Christchurch 8146. Entries close on 11 October 2014. A huge congratulations is in order to our winners of issue last issue’s competition too: Congratulations to our competition winners from our last Designdesign your very own to 4-year-olds Maia Andrell New1Zealand superhero. Thank you also to kidsonscreen for the idea, DVD prizes; ourjudge: tent, Felicity my family is inside it.”Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O and “This also toisour Milburn of the Waiwhetu. They are: 5 to 8-year-olds Juni Leung Luke“Rainbow Harrison, Treehouse: This (1-4 years old) is the treehouse I designed for my family.” James Yang, (5-8 years old) 9 to 12-year-olds Sam Gormack Wairaamia Taratoa-Bannister , (9-12 years old) Visit www.familytimes.co.nz to view the winning entries. 116

win WIN win WIN win WIN Gooie Backpack lunchbox combo By Kidscapes

Kidscapes is your one-stop shop for kids’ decor products gorgeous wall murals, WIN L E G O ® with F RIEND S F IR S T stickers, rugs, lighting, soft furnishings, A ID J UN G L E B IKE RRjust P to school bags, lunch boxes and gifts, name a few things. $2 9.99 ® makes Withtofree nationwide, Speed thedelivery rescue on the LEGO it Friends perfect sense to shop online at Kidscapes. First Aid Jungle Bike. There’s a monkey www.kidscapes.co.nz is giving you in distress trapped in a cave and it’s upthe to chance to win of four gorgeous Gooie Emma to save him.one Help Emma to shovel the Backpack lunchbox combos at with $79.95 fallen rocks and then check thevalued monkey each medic and available in four Emma’s bag. Give the beautiful monkey adesigns. banana Competition ends 14 April – visit to eat and use the walkie-talkie 2015 to radio www.familytimes.co.nz to enter! figure, home. Set includes Emma mini-doll monkey, First Aid Jungle Bike with detachable side-car and other accessories. Ages 6– 12. We have 20 x LEGO ® Friends First Aid Jungle Bike sets to give away.

win WIN win WIN win WIN Win a PTH105 Label Maker from Brother

ALICE in d n a l r e d Won

Lisa Allan Adapted by Dan and by Lewis Carol Based on the book Pengelly Directed by Daniel

All Tickets $10 frome.org.nz www.courttheatr or Phone 963 0870

WIN 1 00 B E S T N ATIVE PL ANT S FOR N E W ZEA L AND GARDEN S Versatile, practical and really easy to use; label maker isthrough everything Ifthe youPT-H105 have ever wandered theyou could want in a hand-held printer. Whether gorgeous grounds of Larnach Castle, you it’s for labelling baby realised food or lunch boxes, probably won’t have that the this and product is going toofnothe doubt come care maintenance garden at in handy for busyhas parents the go. Larnach Castle beenon Fiona Eadie’s We have six for to give away our This lucky responsibility the past 12to years. Family Times outstanding titlereaders! has been highly regarded This its competition endsin 222001, March since first publication and2015. its Visit www.familytimes.co.nz enter. are revised edition and numeroustoreprints a clear indication that it’s an indispensable gardeners’ companion.We have 10 books to give away.

8-18 april 2015

www.familytimes.co.nz

cool activities

Calendar of Events Wheeldon’s thrillingly entertaining ballet with Wrap the family up nice and The Royal Ballet. At Hollywood 3 Cinema, warm and head out to enjoy Visit www.hollywoodcinema.co.nz for session some gorgeous autumn days times and prices. at the following family-friendly 28 March Summer of Fun - Beckenham Fair & Fun events. For more event Day. Stalls, books, cheap flower bouquets, bake sale, sausage sizzle, fun family activities and entertainment ideas, and live music. Beckenham Methodist visit www.familytimes.co.nz Church, 9am-2pm, free. and enjoy our large, family6 April friendly resource. Mainland Tactix v Southern Steel. Get

Until 10 May Spectrum Street Art Festival. Featuring the largest Banksy collection in the southern hemisphere. Free admission, at the YMCA, visit www.streetart.co.nz/rise.

25 March

Rolleston Skate Jam. Cheapskates Skate Skool is running a series of community skate jams. Free gear hire and coaching from experienced skaters. Rolleston Community Park, 4-6pm, visit www.skateskool.co.nz.

26 March – 1 April

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Follow Alice down the rabbit hole in Christopher

into the ANZ Championship this year and support the home team. Horncastle Arena, doors open 6.40pm, game starts 7.40pm. Visit www.tactix.org.nz.

9-12 April

Southern Ballet Theatre Presents “The Ballet Competition.” A tale of mystery and intrigue; a young ballerina goes missing at an international ballet competition. Be entertained as the curious inspector solves the question: Where is Odette? Presented by the senior ballet company. Performances: Thursday 9 April 11am and 2pm; Friday 10 – Sunday 12 April 3pm and 6pm. Adults $15, children and seniors $12.50. Book

Bush Inn Shopping Centre Make the Bush Inn Shopping Centre the place to check out if you haven’t already. With more than 51 specialty stores and a new food and beverage development, you will be spoiled for choice. With health and beauty, gifts, stationery and food, your everyday needs are covered while you browse in a relaxing atmosphere where there is undercover parking and easy one-level access. Make a date with family and friends to

catch up at one of Christchurch’s favourite destinations for a plethora of dining options, both day and night, and if you would like to provide someone else with the experience, simply purchase Bush Inn vouchers, which are redeemable at all Bush Inn retailers. These can be arranged via our website or from the centre office. Like us on facebook to keep up-to-date with the new development, school holiday competitions and centre promotions.

The Christchurch Gondola: cafe, time-tunnel and superb views. through Southern Ballet Theatre’s office, 108 Carlyle Street, Sydenham. Phone 03-3797219, email southernballet@xtra.co.nz.

11-17 April

Celebration of Light. Science Alive is partnering with CPIT to celebrate the Year of Light and Light Technologies with a weeklong Celebration of Light Festival. Visit www. sciencealive.co.nz.

15-18 April

Southern Ballet Theatre Presents “The Wizard of Oz.” A fun filled spectacle,

featuring our three jazz companies. Perfect school holiday entertainment for the whole family. Performances: Wednesday 15 to Saturday 18 April, 3pm and 6pm daily. Adults $15, children and seniors $12.50. Book through the Southern Ballet Theatre’s office, 108 Carlyle Street Christchurch. Phone 03379-7219, email southernballet@xtra.co.nz.

26 April

Tourette’s Association Family Fun Run and Gala. From 10am-1pm. Family fun run and gala fundraising event at North Hagley

The Plains Vintage Railway in Ashburton The Plains Vintage Railway museum site is on Maronan Road, Tinwald, Ashburton, just an hour’s drive from Christchurch. Spend time browsing the pioneer museum village buildings; view the locomotive collection that includes K88, JA1260, A64 and a Vulcan

Railcar along with a variety of vintage machinery. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the domain adjacent to the site, complete with a playground for the children to enjoy. Visit www.plainsrailway.co.nz for open day dates and further information.

Tell our advertiser you saw it in...

Summer Holiday Photo Competition

Open Days

• March 15, 29 • April 5. 19 • May 2, 3

MARONAN RD, TINWALD, ASHBURTON Phone: 03-308 9600 www.plainsrailway.co.nz

Robotics re to all ns M s i on ril e u gt p Se arrin 11 A B 9-

As Summer comes to a close

WIN

With your favourite summer memory Simply upload your favourite photo - - www.bushinncompetition.co.nz or send to bushinncomp@sendpix.org draw/build/create your summer memory - photograph and upload Win from a choice of prizes to the value of $300 (See our website for details)

Competition starts 1st March closes 30th April - Winners advised 1st May 2015 via email www.familytimes.co.nz 20

Club

For more information, visit: www.technotutorz.co.nz

www.smartypants.kiwi facebook.com/smartypants.kiwi

cool activities park Events Village, Rolleston Ave. Visit www. tourettes.org.nz.

12 May

National Young Leaders’ Day. The day aims to develop student leadership and empower young people with the skills to lead themselves and others well. Air Force Museum of New Zealand, 45 Harvard Ave, Wigram. Visit nyldnz.org.

10 - 12 June

New Zealand Chamber Music Contest. See hundreds of youth musicians compete in the only nationwide chamber music competition for young secondary school musicians and composers. Middleton Grange School, visit www.chambermusic.co.nz.

23 May

Burmese Cat Club of New Zealand Southern Region Cat Show. A great venue to come and look at all types of shorthair cats. At Villa Maria College, 21 Peer Street, Upper Riccarton, 10am – 3pm.

Get into the action with Mainland Football.

31 May

2011

5268

Summer

CHR

ISTC

HUR

CH Winter

issue 2011

ISSN 1176 7944

Bring your little monkeys along to Clip ‘n’ Climb and let them discover the wonder and thrill of climbing! Each Tuesday, 10– 11am during term time, Clip ‘n’ Climb has a dedicated session for preschool aged children (2 to 5-years). We adapt the session to needs and ability of each little monkey so why not pop in – no bookings necessary for individuals. Please phone ahead for groups of four children or more. Cost $5 per child. No charge for supervising adults.

ISSue

1178

Little Monkeys

ISSN

Christchurch Airport Marathon. With a marathon, half marathon, 10km and kids’ Mara’Fun, there is something for everyone. Enjoy the scenic route. From 8.30am, Cathedral Square, visit www. christchurchmarathon.co.nz.

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Get onboard with Weka Pass Railway.

Comics Compulsion

Comics Compulsion has been the place to go for all your comics, gaming and war-gaming needs for more than 20-years. Come and see our huge range of board games. These are not just ordinary games; many of them are winners of major international game awards. These games feature fascinating and engaging game play, high quality components and some truly stunning artwork. Come and see our new shop opposite the Northlands mall. Comics Compulsion is more than just comics.

Fun holiday activity at Arion Farm Education Park Arion Farm Education Park is a unique facility run by the National Trade Academy at 890 McLean’s Island, Christchurch, where visitors can see, touch and handfeed animals in a natural environment. It is an affordable, fun and educational holiday option. Pony rides are offered and a picnic and play area with shelter and shade is available. The farm focuses solely on New Zealand farm animals and farming heritage. Visitors

learn about breeds, handling and care, the farming industry and its contribution to the economy. Arion Farm Education Park is an ideal venue for hosting children’s parties. Arion Farm Education Park is open every day from 10am – 3pm. For more information, visit www.arionfarmpark.co.nz or for bookings phone 03-360-2192, 021881-279, or visit the “arion farm education park” Facebook page.

www A world away right at your doorstep Living Springs Kids Camp A place where memories are made April 12-17 www.livingsprings.co.nz 218 Bamfords Road (03) 329 9788 info@livingsprings.co.nz

PLAN YOUR BIRTHDAY with a real difference!

We make music fun!

Book your OWN TRAM for 2 ½ hours! Have a birthday party on a tram or a train... KIDS, OLDIES, ANYONE!

50 Ferrymead Park Drive

Ph: 03 384-1970 • info@ferrymead.org.nz www.ferrymead.org.nz www.familytimes.co.nz

cool activities

Holiday programmes Looking for something fun, educational or adventurous for your kids during these school holidays? Check out some of the great programmes available in the following listings: Portfolio workshops

With an emphasis on confidence, Portfolio Model Agency workshops also cover grooming, nutrition, skincare, photo shoot, castings, catwalk and more. Call now to make a booking!

Busy Bumbles

Busy Bumbles award-winning OSCAR Programme is action packed, fun filled days of holiday fun. Children from all schools welcome.

Go Potty Ceramic Studio

Get creative at Go Potty Ceramic Studio with holiday sessions at 10am or 12.30pm everyday from Friday 3 to Friday 10 April. Bookings essential, email gopottynz@ gmail.com or phone 03-332-2361.

Antarctic Centre

Make a splash at Living Springs. Daily programmes throughout the school holidays for children 6 to 12-years. Details and Northlands Mall South West Christchurch Join SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star bookings at www.iceberg.co.nz. SHARP Trust provides quality, Christian outin the Bikini Bottom Beach Party Live Stage of-school care for children aged 5 to 14-years Canterbury Swim School Show these school holidays at Northlands. in the South West of Christchurch. The afterWe cater for all ages- including adults - and See www.northlands.co.nz for more details. school, holiday and music programmes are high all ranges of ability. To find out more about quality, low cost and heaps of fun. Enrol now at classes or our holiday programmes, call Alice in Wonderland - In the Attic www.sharp.org.nz or phone 03-338-0673. Join Alice, Jimmy and their Uncle Lewis in the on 03-260-2220 or email us at info@ attic for a magical story that transports you canterburyswimschool.co.nz. Mainland Football to Wonderland. From 8-18 April, bookings at Have a ball: join one of Mainland Football’s Living Springs www.courttheatre.org.nz. action-packed holiday programmes for some Living Springs kids’ camp Pirates Ahoy runs outdoors or indoors fun these holidays. 12-17 April for five nights. Cost $275 including Canterbury Swim School activities, food and accommodation. Register Experience the finest swim teaching at Mandarin Stars Christchurch’s most progressive swim school. at www.livingsprings.co.nz. Explore China, Chinese culture and Mandarin Book now for learn-to-swim and holiday programmes. language workshops during the school holidays! Engaging, fun and creative immersionBlack Cat based 1.5 hour workshops daily from Monday Here are some great holiday For an unforgettable experience, join a 13 April – Tuesday 14 April 2015 www.manharbour nature cruise or swim with hector’s darinstars.co.nz, enrol.christchurch@manda- ideas designed to keep you rinstars.co.nz, 0800-68 86. and your little ones entertained dolphins in Akaroa with Black Cat. Visit www. blackcat.co.nz. Kids cruise free during the during the school break. school holidays!

Holiday specials

CASPA

After School & Holiday Programme

MATHS READING WRITING Fun, motivating tuition that gets results! • Friendly, qualified teachers • NZ-based curriculum • Face-to-face teaching • School Years 0–9

351-3000

P.O. Box 20076 Bishopdale

A safe, creative environment for 5-13 year olds.

Creative After School Programmed Activities

p: 349 9260 or 027 352 1638 e: info@caspa.org.nz Subsidies apply w: www.caspa.org.nz

Harewood Hockey Nunweek Park

• Premier • Senior • Secondary • Midweek • Presidents • Masters • Social • Primary A&B • 6-a-side • Minis (up to 8yrs) For more information: Julie Crake, Phone: 03-359 9789 Mobile: 027-459 9789 | harewood.secretary@gmail.com 22

www.familytimes.co.nz

SHINRYUKAN phone

www.marleyperkins.co.nz 208A Wairakei Rd, Bryndwr

Aaron Cruden's The Beginner's Guide to Rugby Aaron Cruden shares the highlights of his junior and professional rugby careers along with the skills and tricks you’ll need to become a rugby star. Simply go to www. familytimes. co.nz to enter to win one of five books. Entries close 14 April 2015.

After school care

Opawa School NOW Holiday OPEN Programme

CALL US NOW!

win win win

Training 7 days a week Classes for Kids aged 5–12 yrs at Burnside & Linwood

383-4843

www.christchurchaikido.co.nz

Circus Classes for kids After & ol scho ay holid es class

Looking for a great programme or activity to keep your kids occupied after school hours? Look no further – we’ve got some great options for you here, and at www. familytimes.co.nz. Alliance Francaise Imagine your children speaking French! Give them this opportunity by joining the Alliance Française. Free trial lessons for all children. Email: enquiries@afchristchurch. org.nz. CASPA CASPA offers an after-school programme that your five to 13-year-olds will enjoy. For peace of mind, call CASPA on 03-3499260.

Horse Riding Courses Quality instruction on excellent horses and ponies in a safe, country environment. Suitable for complete beginners to advanced riders. 8~18 years. Weekend: $160.00 includes 2 nights’ accommodation, all meals, horse riding, trekking and instruction. Five day camps $370.00 Excellent facilities for Dressage, Show Jumping and Cross Country

For workshop and class details

Visit: www.chchcircus.com Email: circustrust@gmail.com or call: 027-436 5384

Island Road, View Hill, OXFORD Phone: 03-312 4309 www.kowhai.co.nz

cool activities

Entertainment Need a fun activity to beat the every month, plus on holiday weekends. Visit www.wekapassrailway.co.nz for details. autumn blues? The weather Ferrymead Heritage Park may be cooling down, but The steam trains are running at Ferrymead there’s still plenty of fun to be Heritage Park on the first Sunday of every had at a plethora of events and month, right through 2015. entertainment destinations Farm Education Park around the city. Here are a few Arion Arion Farm Education Park is a unique facility ideas to get you started, and at McLeans Island, Christchurch where we’ve got heaps more at www. visitors can see, touch and hand feed animals in a natural environment. familytimes.co.nz. Royal Albatross Centre Christchurch Tramway Welcome aboard the Christchurch Tram! Travel on our newly extended track and enjoy this unique and historic way to view the inner city.

Bush Inn

The Bush Inn Shopping Centre is building a new food and beverage development, opening July. Follow what’s up on facebook.

Orana Wildlife Park

Experience up-close animal encounters at Orana Wildlife Park. Hand feed giraffe, see kiwi, lions, Tasmanian devils and much more.

Canterbury Museum

Explore the Victorian Christchurch street, Antarctic and Maori galleries, special exhibitions, shop and café. Enjoy Discovery for children. Visit www.canterburymuseum.com.

Canterbury Museum

Hands on fun at Discovery for children! See, touch and learn about our natural world. Just $2 for over threes. Visit www. canterburymuseum.com.

Antarctic Centre

A unique Antarctic experience for all, with snow and ice, an Antarctic storm, exciting Hagglund ride, 4D Extreme simulated cruise and the penguin encounter. Visit www. iceberg.co.nz.

Inflatable World

Bring the whole family and bounce on into Inflatable World. Visit our website to find a co.nz.

Weka Pass Railway

Weka Pass Railway runs its popular excursions on the first and third Sundays

The only place in the world to see Albatross on the “Mainland,” is a little bit south of Christchurch at Taiaroa Head, at the tip of Dunedins’ Otago Peninsula.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Visit Willowbank’s Big 5; the tuatara, the kiwi, the cheeky kea, the mighty takahe and the very rare kaka. Visit www.willowbank.co.nz.

2-4-6-8 who wants to roller skate?

Grab the kids and come roller skating. All skates are provided. Visit www.phatsk8.co.nz or phone Ingrid on 03-349-9924 or 027-387-0065.

Winnie Bagoes Ferrymead - your local family-friendly pizza restaurant

Do you want to take the family out for dinner but struggle to know where to take them? Winnie Bagoes Ferrymead is your local family-friendly restaurant. There’s a great kids’ menu, the popular Kids’ Pizza School (which is great for birthdays at only $10 per child), friendly attentive staff and it’s great for a family night out too. You need look no further when thinking of a fantastic friendly restaurant that you can take the whole family too. Visit Winnie Bagoes Ferrymead at 2 Waterman Place, Ferrymead, phone 03-376-4900, www.winniebagoes.co.nz.

Peveril is the oldest operating steam loco in New Zealand, at Ferrymead.

win win win 5 lullaby CDS to win From internationally acclaimed pianist, Carl Doy and the members of The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, come 20 exquisite lullabies from all around the world. Simply go to www.familytimes.co.nz to enter to win one of five copies of this beautiful CD. Entries close 14 April 2015.

Kings Swim School Did you know that seven out of 10 Kiwi kids cannot swim? We are an island nation and learning to swim should be considered an essential life skill for all New Zealanders. Learning to swim at SwimKings is for 3-month-old babies through to adults. Class sizes are small to enable more swimming time and individual tuition. Lessons are by ability rather than age. All lessons at SwimKings are taught by highly-trained and accomplished swimming teachers. The teaching methods we use have been continuously fine-tuned since our owners - Todd Mason and Pam BerryMason - transferred from the world of

international competitive swim coaching and educational management to further develop their swim school. Swimkings has a progressive swimming model called “Swimolution” that allows your child to move to the next level as soon as they have attained the required criteria. Swimkings swimming classes run continuously throughout the year, and a holiday programme runs throughout each block of the school holidays. Before you or your child becomes a SwimKings member, they require a 5 to 10-minute swim assessment to ensure they begin swimming at the correct level.

Book Now for the April Holiday Programme Mel Radford Brown Director of Portfolio

Kids and Teens Modelling Workshops

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109 main sth rd, sockburn, christchurch ph: 03 341 7579 109 main sth rd, sockburn, christchurch ph: 03 341 7579 www.swimkings.co.nz www.facebook/swimkings www.swimkings.co.nz www.facebook/swimkings www.familytimes.co.nz

parties

Birthdays parties – keeping up with the Jones’ There always seems to be a bit of competition in parenting; from which afterschool activities your kids go to and where you buy their clothes from, to sporting prowess and academic achievement.

ut arguably the biggest competition of all is birthday parties. Once upon a time, birthdays were simpler. If you were lucky, you would get to invite a few friends around, maybe take off on your bikes down to the park to play, watch a movie later and enjoy a slice of mum’s homemade birthday cake. These days, there seems to be a lot more expectation surrounding birthday parties. From elaborate party bags to hosted venues and expensive activities, there is no end to how much you can spend on a child’s birthday, all to keep up with the Jones’. Of course, there is nothing wrong with those things – after all, a hosted venue cuts down on the clean-up work, and birthday party entertainment is a lot of fun and takes the pressure off you organising games – but it all comes down to the reasons that you do it. If you find yourself stretching beyond your budget in order to throw a party as fancy as the one that your child’s school friend did last

the music

month, you may need to sit back and have a rethink. Will it be worth it when you get the credit card bill? Blogger April Masini says that parents have become so insecure about raising their children that they use their kids to compete with each other, especially when it comes to birthday parties. She says that kids need to learn to have realistic expectations though, and learn that life isn’t always fair, and that not everybody has the same disposable income. One parent who decided to buck the trends for her 2-year-old son’s birthday is Heather Morgan-Shot. Rather than go the catered direction, she and her husband Chris home-cooked birthday treats for the kids, and had a barbecue for the adults. “I had stressed endlessly about my simple approach,” said Heather. “At one point, in the beginning of our party planning efforts, Chris had to remind me that we didn’t need to go overboard for our 2-year-old’s birthday party, and I’m thankful he was able to keep me focused. I find it embarrassingly easy to get swept up in what other mums think and say and, I lose perspective on what works for us as a family. “In the end, Mason clearly had a blast–and I wouldn’t change a thing about the party we had for him.” Here are some tips for deciding what kind of party, treats, food and entertainment you should have for your child’s party:

1 Set a budget. Be realistic about what

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you have to spend, and plan the party accordingly. Maybe in order to book some entertainment, you can skip on catering and home-cook instead. Ask your child what is most important to them about the party.

2 Time. Lots of families have two parents

working, so establish how much time you can realistically put into the party. Maybe you don’t have time to home cook, or

Go Potty Ceramic Studio Looking for a fun and creative birthday party experience that’s as relaxing as it is different? Then book your child’s next birthday with Go Potty Ceramic Studio, where each guest paints a piece of pottery to create their very own masterpiece. We have four great new party packages to choose from; either paint in the studio or at a venue of your choice and let us take care of the rest. For further information email gopottynz@gmail.com, phone 03-3322361, visit www.gopotty.co.nz or www. facebook.com/gopotty.

15 Castles to choose from! www.bouncingcastles.co.nz

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Entertain at your home. Chch & beyond.

www.musicfairy.co.nz Ph: 0508 FAIRY 4 U (0508 32479 4 8)

Contact: Ingrid 03-349 9924 / 027-387 0065

www.phatsk8.co.nz

www.familytimes.co.nz

Ph: 03-383 2255 Mobile: 021-611 450

a full priced hire

WITH VOUCHER

energy to clean up, and a catered party with entertainment is what best suits your needs.

3 Help. How much help is available to you

through family and friends? This may affect your decisions about how to run the party. Maybe your family can help cater, or friends can help supervise or entertain.

4 What your child wants. Your child may not actually want a big, fancy party, but prefer to have just a few friends over to play video games. Don’t be tempted to force a big party if it’s not what your child wants – you may be doing it for your own reasons.

2-4-6-8 who wants to roller skate?

Grab the kids and come roller skating - it’s fun, interactive, great fitness and perfect for the whole family. All skates are provided so come and join the party with music, disco lights, games and prizes for just $8 per person or $6 per person with your own skates. We have regular public sessions at Lincoln Event Centre, Rolleston Community Centre, Prebbleton Hall and other venues throughout the year. Phatsk8 specialise in birthday parties, fundraisers, holiday programmes, school groups and lessons. Come to us or we can come to you. Visit www.phatsk8.co.nz, or phone Ingrid on 03-349-9924 or 027-387-0065. Like us on Facebook, join our subscriber list for regular emails about up-andcoming events.

Game on Tim Driver from Comics Compulsion tips off Family Times on the latest and greatest kids’ board games.

up. Players must trade cards, hit and slay monsters, and plan strategies together to keep their castle towers intact. The players either win or lose together in a great game for families, but in the end only one player will be declared the master slayer! Even the youngest member can play as it’s a cooperative and mum and dad can help out without changing the game. A typical game runs 30-40 minutes, RRP $65.

to gain 20 victory points - or the last monster standing - wins the game. King of Tokyo is a fast playing and quick to set up game. This makes it a perfect game for parents to join in with their kids. I would happily play this with ages eight-plus. RRP $65.

Star Wars X Wing

King of Tokyo

Castle Panic The forest is filled with all sorts of monsters. They watched and waited as you built your castle and trained your soldiers, but now they’ve gathered their army and are marching out of the woods. Can you work with your friends to defend your castle against the horde, or will the monsters tear down your walls and destroy the precious castle towers? Castle Panic is a cooperative, light strategy game for one to six players ages 10 and

King of Tokyo is a Richard Garfield game for two to six players, in which you play mutant monsters, gigantic robots and other aliens, all of whom are happily whacking each other in order to become the one and only King of Tokyo. Play a GigaMonster on a rampage and destroying everything in his way! Roll the dice to get the best combinations to heal yourself, to attack, to buy special cards or to gain victory points. It’s up to you to choose the best tactic to become King of Tokyo. The first

Caesars – the perfect place for celebrations Caesars is a great place for the whole family with affordable, quality food, a great environment and friendly staff. Menus suit most tastes and budgets, including gluten-free and vegetarian choices. Children enjoy the play rooms, the children’s menu and the colouring competition, while parents enjoy their drinks and meals in proximity. The “families’ favourite” restaurant is ideal for birthday parties and functions of up to 200 guests. Caesars offers carrot, banana or

chocolate cakes for $32.90 and a free photo of the occasion. For large groups, Caesars offers special flexible set menus depending on the budget and taste. Now Caesars is open all day from 11am for lunch, brunch and dinner. Its famous “Grill on the Rocks” is offered daily. Caesars has a large open bar with a large screen to watch sports and a new outdoor area. Come along and bring the whole family and friends to Caesars!

Children’s play area

$10 Lunch Menu or $15 Grill on the Rocks Lunch Daily*

Children’s menu

OPEN DAILY r Lunch & Dinne m 11am o E fr E R F e in d s Kid Mon & Thurs*

* Conditions apply.

Crazy Wed 2nd Main HALF PRICE or $15 Grill on the Rocks*

Main North Rd, Northwood Supa Centre | Ph: 03-323 5420 | www.caesars.co.nz

In X-Wing Miniatures Game, you take the role of squad leader and command a group of merciless Imperial or daring Rebel pilots in furious ship-to-ship space combat. Intuitive rules have you fighting in minutes. X-Wing includes everything you need to

begin your battles, such as thirteen ship cards (featuring nine Imperial and four Rebel pilots), five upgrade cards, and three fully assembled and painted ships. With the quick-start rules, you can simply select one of the exciting missions, position your ships on the playing space as instructed, and choose your opening move. X-Wing can be played in a variety of ways. Select one of the thrilling missions in the rulebook for a narrative game, or dogfight with your opponent until only one ship remains. Only the most clever pilots employing a range of tactics will emerge victorious. What’s more, no mission will ever play the same way twice, thanks to a range of customisation options, varied manoeuvres, and possible combat outcomes. Upgrades available. RRP $65, ages 10-plus.

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5 Barbie in Princess Power DVDS! Barbie™ stars as Kara, a modern-day princess with an everyday life. One day, after being kissed by a magical butterfly, Kara™ soon discovers she has amazing super powers allowing her to transform into Super Sparkle, her secret, crimefighting alter ego. Simply go to www. familytimes.co.nz to enter to win one of five DVDs. Entries close 14 April 2015.

Nova Montessori School Have you ever wondered what Montessori education is all about and if it’s right for your child? Montessori education has been around for more than 100 years and is stronger than ever. Encouraging life-long learning through a wealth of teaching approaches, student learning integrates all of the curriculum areas and focuses on promoting children’s academic, social, emotional, physical and moral development. Students and families have a strong sense of place within the Nova Montessori school community with emphasis on positive and

respectful relationships being the foundation for this safe and supportive educational learning environment. Set in beautiful grounds in an ecological paradise, Nova Montessori School is well established, since 1989, in modern purpose-built facilities. Nova Montessori welcomes you to visit them and to observe the Montessori difference. Talk to Pauline or Shubha today about availability in Nova’s early childhood centre (ages 3 to 6-years) or primary school (ages 6 to 13-years) and about arranging an introductory visit. Phone 03-382-0503.

Individual. Learning. Brilliance. Graciously inviting you to tour our school, observe in a classroom and speak personally to the Co-Heads of School, and the teaching staff. Montessori is right for your child. Phone us today to discuss your child’s education.

FREE RIDE on either the train or bumper car upon presentation of this voucher.

472 Cranford St, Papanui Ph: 03-352 4476 www.chipmunks.co.nz

We currently have spaces in our Montessori Early Child-hood Centre (3-6 years) and Primary (6-9 years and 9-13 years) Contact Pauline or Shubha Phone: 03-382 0503 admin@novamontessori.school.nz

Nova Montessori School Education for 3-13 years

novamontessori.school.nz www.familytimes.co.nz

Getting into the great outdoors this autumn Make the most of the settled weather, end-of-summer warmth and quieter holiday season by taking your family out into nature this autumn. Department of Conservation (DOC) rangers share their top spots to visit for those wanting to get away for a week, a weekend or even just a day.

leaving to ensure a tail wind. The track is fairly exposed in places and a strong wind can turn a fun day out into fairly hard work! A map of the trail is available by visiting www. littleriverrailtrail.co.nz.

scrambles and waterfalls too. It would have been great to go in summer when we would have felt like swimming and everything would have been in flower. The track follows the creek so there are lots of crossings and wet feet are guaranteed. The Sawcut itself needs to be seen to be believed; there is a real feeling of anticipation as the tramp goes on and the gorge narrows until the Sawcut is finally revealed.

Weekend: Sawcut Gorge, South Marlborough, Anita Spencer

Week: Lake Mahinapua campsite, West Coast, DOC Hokitika ranger Ingrid Gruner

other kids joined in, and it ended in a big round of hide and seek. Visit www.doc.govt.nz to find out more about these awesome places and to plan and prepare for your trips.

Day: Christchurch to Little River Rail Trail, DOC Christchurch ranger Anita Spencer Running all the way from Hornby to Little River, I’d recommend cycling the Motukarara to Little River section of this track (20km). This beautiful and family-friendly cycle route runs alongside both Te Waihora/ Lake Ellesmere and Te Roto o Wairewa/ Lake Forsyth. It can be shortened further for younger families between either Motukarara and Birdlings Flat (13km) or Birdlings Flat to little River (7km). The track has several bridges and my favourite parts are the causeways along the lake edge when you have wetlands on both sides. Bring your binoculars as this is a great place for budding bird spotters with spoonbills, crested grebes and even white herons regularly seen along the water’s edge. Check the forecast before

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In spring I took my 12-year-old son to discover one of New Zealand’s little secret gems—Sawcut Gorge in South Marlborough—and stayed overnight at the lovely Isolation Creek Hut. I would thoroughly recommend this walk for families with older children. The tramp is really interesting all the way through. Endless corners reveal primo swimming holes, big towering cliffs covered in Marlborough daisies and rare brooms. There are lots of boulder-

Only 15 minutes out of Hokitika and three hours from Christchurch, this beautiful place has stunning walks (the kids can ride on their bikes) and, of course, a lake for swimming, boating and fishing. You’ll be pleased to hear the lakewater is warmer than many other West Coast swimming spots thanks to the fact that it is fed from large wetlands. We take games to play on the grass like petanque, badminton or frisbee. Last summer all the

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Step-parents and preteens: What Modern Family’s Jay Pritchett taught me

’ve recently been re-watching one of my favourite shows, Modern Family. I think what draws me to it (apart from the entertainment factor) is that many of the problems the three families face are very real for families today. My absolute favourite character to watch is Jay: a middle-aged man, married to an out-of-his-depth beautiful Columbian Gloria, with her son from her first marriage Manny. Whether you’ve seen the series, or are a step-parent yourself, take note of the top three things this family has taught me about step-parenting:

1. Ninety per-cent of being a good parent is just showing up. Jay struggles (to say the least) with Manny’s real father’s absolute disrespect to stick to basic time management. Random visits with expectations to sleep over, broken promises to Manny, bringing his new girlfriend

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unannounced – all these are realities families face today with a parent vaguely outside of the picture. It’s hard to live up to expectations of a parent figure who seems just so “cool,” but Jay puts aside his hate and isn’t there so much to pick up the pieces, but rather just to be there.

2. “While others are out there kicking the ball on the field, Manny’s looking at butterflies.”

Trying to shape a child is hard work. Especially if you have a certain dislike of how they have turned out so far. Jay’s biggest goal in life seems to be to turn Manny into a man while Manny passionately tries to live up to the romantic his mother tries to parent him into being. Be on the same team as your partner! If something irritates you, don’t say it – suggest an alternative parenting method. You are now a team so be on the same page.

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When you are craving a convenient, greattasting snack to keep you on the front foot, then look no further than Nice & Natural’s new and improved range of nut and muesli bars. The makeover sees two new product ranges added (Oatie Blasts and Supergrains,) improvements to old favourites, new flavours, and eye-catching new packaging. Simply go to www. familytimes.co.nz to enter to win one of five Nice & Natural prize packs. Entries close 14 April 2015.

3. “I killed the turtle.”

In one episode, after Jay accidentally drops a picture on Manny’s pet turtle and kills it, Jay develops a master plan to make Manny believe that a raccoon got into his bedroom window and killed his pet turtle. Not a good parenting choice overall, but when you are a step-parent, honesty is even dearer to preteens in the family. They almost want to feel that you can be more of a friend to them so they expect you to not tip-toe around them the way that their biological parent sometimes does. It’s so easy for you to become the bad guy in a quick flash, so stick to the facts – be truthful. By Eva Maria Eva-Maria is a 23-year-old on a mission to help improve 10,000,000 adult-teenager relationships around the world. She is the author of the bestselling You Shut Up! and sequel Shush, You!. She travels throughout New Zealand, Australia and Russia coaching

families, running workshops and speaking at conferences and events about the importance of intergenerational relationships and youth in the workforce, offering understanding from “the other side.” www.eva-maria.co.nz.

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Win Howler Hotdogs Howler Hotdogs brings a new breed of Kiwi hotdog in to the home in a handy, re-sealable pack. There are plenty of mini hot dogs to satisfy the meanest hunger; 16 of them to be exact. Forget sticky, fried batter and tasteless processed sausage meat: Howler Hotdogs fill the gap with a delicious beef sausage in a crispy batter that can be baked, not fried, and plated in 15 minutes. Visit www.howlerhotdogs. co.nz . We have 10 vouchers for a free pack to give away. Enter at www. familytimes.co.nz. Entries close 15 April 15 2015.

Family Times in the

Waimakariri

North Canterbury

www.visitwaimakariri.co.nz

Waimakariri District represents the best of both worlds; only 15minutes drive from Christchurch with miles of unspoiled landscape punctuated by thriving town centres.

All entries must reflect: The

changing colours of Kaiapoi

Pegasus Town

The districts towns of Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Oxford and Woodend / Pegasus have personality plus with cultural and recreational offerings, including boutique shopping, unique cafes, breath-taking art galleries and popular swimming centres.

Events and Markets The district boasts over 650 events a year from art expo’s to world class sporting events, muscle cars & demolition derby’s to fetes & craft fairs. There is always something on for everyone in the family. There is farmers and village markets on every day from Thursday night in Kaiapoi through to Sunday in Oxford and in between with Ohoka, Cust and Rangiora also hosting markets.

Events Calendar [March – July 2015] 28 March 4 April 17 – 19 April 24 April 29 May 24 – 25 May 10 – 12 July

Rakahuri Rage Oxford 100th A&P Show Creative Arts Expo Kaiapoi Great Gallipoli Camp Out Film & Photo Competition Closes Famous Sefton Tug of War Kaiapoi Art Expo

Receive our free monthly events calendar direct to your inbox. Sign up at www.visitwaimakariri.co.nz/signup

Short Walks in the Waimakariri If you fancy a modern day adventure or just a casual Sunday stroller then you will fancy what the Waimakariri has to offer you. Mt Thomas and Mt Oxford offer those families who enjoy a tramp in native wonderlands as you rise through the podocarp forests to the snow tussock and scenic views of the district. For those wanting a more sedate family experience Kaiapoi Lakes, Tutaepatu Trail and Kaiapoi Island never stop amazing.

Quite simply, Waimakariri has it all - and then some! www.visitwaimakariri.co.nz Kaiapoi i-SITE Visitor Information Centre 57 Charles St, Kaiapoi Ph 03 327 3134

www.visitwaimakariri.co.nz