Summer 2011/12 by Cairns Parenting Companion

y our best fr ien d

GO Taipans!

WIN TICKETS

Rescue

Remedies

Childhood medication

Co-Sleeping

Is it part of bonding?

Pullout

Preparing for a VBAC

Summer Holiday GUIDE inside

LITTLE WHITE LIES Is it ok to bend the truth?

EDUCATION - your alternatives PREGNANC Y

B A BY

TODDLER

Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Out The rise of the stay-at-home dad

Cairns Parenting P R I M A R Y S C H OSummer O L 2011/12 SU MM E R Companion 2 0 1 1 /11 2

WORKING FROM HOME IS WITHIN YOUR REACH Build your own flexible business Determine your own income Assist in providing a warm and safe environment for children

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

r e m m Su 2 011 / 12

this issue pregnancy

Max

Dunphy loving the rain in Edmonton!

preparing for a vbac

testing during pregnancy

editors’ note

baby

As I write this the rain is coming down in

co-sleeping

first foods

buckets. Welcome to Summer and the 6th edition of Cairns Parenting Companion. Thanks to the wonderful Aaron Grabau

toddler

and his beautiful family for blessing us on

playgroup for grandparents

the front cover - one of the original Cairns Taipans who’s still one of the best.

Pullout Summer H oliday Guide

finance small business – big rewards

saving money with sustainable living

regular features birth story

around town

9 60

directory with

primary school

summer holiday guide

top 5 finds

dear dave

mum behaving badly

parents

man about the house

stay at home dads

ask our experts

81 70

for a VBAC, plus help you deal with ‘saying

little white lies

confession box

goodbye’ when school returns. There are

home swap

competitions

In this edition, we salute the daddies and

saying goodbye

teacher feature

traditional classroom and find out what

girl guides and scouts

other educators are doing. If you’re

welcome them to join us at our inaugural ‘Daddy’s Day Out’. We look outside the

determined to birth your baby naturally next time, we’ll show you how to prepare

some great ideas for homemade presents that will be perfect for under the Christmas

health

tree; Santa Claus is a topic of discussion with

rescue remedies

mummy makeover

a state of non-doing

teacher feature

nutrition check

community photoboard

the young ones and we discover how to holiday in your home away from home. Thanks again for picking us up.

little lifesavers

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and… Happy Parenting!

Juanita and Bec

a community of learning (alternative education)

explore your options to education in fnq if the conventional schooling system is not the right fit for you and your child.

summer cover

Rebecca Waqanikalou

DESIGNER:

Sheryn Bewert

Aaron Grabau from the Cairns Taipans

engineroom.com.au

with his beautiful family, Isaiah, Giselle,

PHONE: 0438 811 027 (Juanita) EMAIL: info@parentingcompanion.com.au ADDRESS: PO Box 4620 Cairns QLD 4870 www.parentingcompanion.com.au www.facebook.com/cairnsparentingcompanion

Zavier and baby Amelie. Filmed at Kewarra Beach with girls dressed by Nelly Jean. Nelly Jean is an online children’s boutique offering the latest in fashion, toys and gifts from around the globe.

DISCLAIMER: No part of this magazine, including advertisements within it, may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at time of publishing, readers are advised to check details before visiting. Cairns Parenting Companion cannot accept responsibilities for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The expressions expressed within the magazine are not necessarily the views of the Cairns Parenting Companion, of the Parenting individual writers. Summer 2011/12but Cairns Companion 3

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

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Photo taken by John

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n f o cu s iphotographer DOMINIC CHAPLIN from PINE CREEK PICTURES Dominic, with his partner Lisa, can do any type of photography but specialise in wedding, family and sports photography. Dominic’s style involves the natural outdoor look combined with textures of rural Australia, utilising some great rural outdoor locations around Cairns and even their own property at Little Mulgrave Valley. You can also have studio photography taken at their studio at 247 McLeod Street, North Cairns.

phone: 0419 028 077 www.pinecreekpictures.com.au “There is no way to be a perfect mother, and a million ways to be a good one.” Jill Churchill

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

inbox

We value your feedback. Please email your comments to feedback@parentingcompanion.com.au

Reality Check Your ‘Losing Someone You Love’ story in the Spring edition was just the remedy I needed to stop feeling sorry for myself! It reminded me not to take people I love for granted. Emma, I cried after reading your story and can’t imagine how I would ever cope losing a child. Thank you all for sharing your story and giving us all a reality check. Janine from Stratford

Grandparents For once a magazine that doesn’t forget about those hard-working and very important, Grandparents. It was nice to read how we play an important role in raising our grandchildren and need a bit more recognition for it. Well done Parenting Companion. Hope to read many more stories for the grandparents! Whiterock Grannie

Editor’s Pick I’m totally jealous I didn’t make the cut as one of your chosen mummy panelists. It looked like you all had a great time driving around in a stretch hummer. Well done to the mummies - enjoy the ride! Sam from Kuranda

What got you talking on Facebook

We asked you: Assuming you live close to school, do you think it’s safe to let your child walk or ride to school and if so, at what age is it right to start this independence? Margaret - My son (eight) seems to be doing a great job riding his bike to and from school. With that said, the school sometimes does the bike/bus service where the PE teachers ride with the kids. Fantastic idea! Jodi - I’m more worried about careless motorists and other pedestrians (older kids that don’t give a rats about younger kids) than anything. My kids know about stranger danger and road safety. Samantha - My two eldest have been riding since Year 2 and are in Year 3 now. They had to earn the right to ride by showing they are safe riders, know what to do in an emergency and that they only go straight to and from school. I am confident they can do the right thing and hope drivers and other road users offer them the same courtesy.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

s r e v a s e f li lit tle

Local mums share their favourite tips for making life just that little bit easier.

Top Tip Congratulations to Lisa Ashfield for her Little Lifesaver Tip - Lisa won a floor puzzle thanks to Ta-da Toys. www.ta-datoys.com.au

Learning to Read My daughter is coming up to four years of age and this morning we used our labeling machine, wandering around the house choosing items to label; fridge, aquarium, bedroom, door handle, dishwasher, toothbrush, mirror etc! It was lots of educational fun, and Evie even punched in the letters on the machine as I called them out. Now when she walks around the house she can learn to recognize the words. Lisa Ashfield

Routine for Sleep After having two children, Ben, now six and Sophie, five, I am glad I listened to my mother’s advice! As soon as I got home from the hospital after giving birth to Ben, my routine started!! I would wake Ben up at around 11:30pm (even if he had just been put down at 8pm). I would then bath him, feed him and then I put him down for the night. He would sleep through until 6am. When he was

a few weeks older I brought the time forward, so I would wake him up at 10pm instead of 11:30pm. Both my children have slept through from when they were born. There is nothing worse then being woken up at 3am when your baby wants a feed! Sarah Mayson

WIN a

TAIPANS f amily p ass Simply email your PARENTING TIPS to win@parentingcompanion.com.au for your chance to win tickets to see the Cairns Taipans take on arch enemies, the Townsville Crocs on Friday Feb 3rd.

Learning to Save My six-year-old boy wasn’t really interested in saving. It gave him no tactile result and he seemed to be into instant reward. In order to get him to save his ‘pocket money’ we took him shopping, let him pick out anything he wanted (he chose a box of craft items) and we got him to put it on layby. Every week now, he takes his few dollars to BIG W and pays off his layby. He’s had about six layby’s over the past year and paid off every one. It might not be teaching him about saving, but it is certainly teaching him the value of money. Leigh Dall’Osto

Other upcoming home games include: Friday Dec 2nd v Gold Coast 7:30pm Sat Dec 10th

v Melbourne 7:30pm

New Years Eve v New Zealand 6:30pm Friday Jan 20th v Wollongong 7:30pm Friday Feb 3rd v Townsville 7:30pm Friday Feb 10th v Perth Sat Feb 18th

v Melbourne 7:30pm

Tickets: $12 (kids), $48 (family of four). For more information phone 4041 3000

Toilet Training I found when I started toilet training with my two-year-old it was great to have his Day-care mum start things off. As their day was pretty much mapped out, and he could see other kids doing the same thing, it certainly made it easier from that point on. Julie Stager

www.taipans.com

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CONSULTATIONS: Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm Saturday 8am - 12pm OUR DOCTORS: Dr Robert d’Hotman • Dr Deepa Gadhvi • Dr Matthew Warburton Continuing to Care for the Cairns Community 1/600 Bruce Hwy, Worree (behind Calanna Pharmacy) FOR MORE INFORMATION PHONE: 4033 2525 Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Foster Carers

make a difference! Children and Young people need someone; who is kind, who is caring, who will listen, who is patient and will be forgiving, who never Give up, who will understand that life has been tough and at times neglectful.

Can you be someone? The difference you could make for a child is unbelievable.

Contact us If you are interested in making a positive difference in a child or young personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life, please contact Will on 07 4032 8300.

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Our foster families and individuals go through a rigorous assessment and training process to ensure they are able to provide a suitable care environment. Each child and young person is then matched to an approved foster carer based on a range of criteria that aims to promote stability and long lasting relationships. All foster families receive ongoing support and training to maintain their capacity to care and assist them to meet the changing needs of each child or young person.

e m o c w el

bir th stor y

A N N A B E L PA R N A B Y

WORDS

Kristina Parnaby PHOTOGRAPHS Nellie Ireland Photography

I am very fortunate to have two

irregular contractions. In the bath I told

gorgeous children. Funnily enough their

my husband I thought we had a long day

births were similar in that they were

ahead of us. Little did I know!

both born six days before their due date,

After I got out of the bath at around

were both posterior and both weighed

4.45am things started to change, so I

3.8kg and measured 52cm in length. But

asked my husband to call Lynda. At around

this is where the similarities between

5am our three-year-old son, Oliver, woke

their births end.

up and I tried to hold it together and talk to him so he wouldn’t get scared seeing

and rather swift entrance into the world

long, difficult, traumatic and characterised

me in pain. Then a huge contraction

at 5.51am on Thursday 7 July. She had the

by unnecessary medical interventions,

forced me to get on my hands and knees.

cord around her neck but one quick flick

which had negative impacts on both me

It was then I knew the baby was coming

by Jodie and it was off. Oliver excitedly

and my child. The birth of my second

and I started pushing involuntarily.

said, “that’s my baby Annabel”.

The birth of my first child, Oliver, was

child in July this year was a vastly different

Lynda walked in around then and was

So both births resulted in healthy,

birth experience, thanks in large part to

somewhat surprised to see me pushing as

the assistance of Lynda Hay, a Cairns

happy babies who I cherish and adore,

my husband had told her only 30 minutes

based Doula.

but again the similarities end there. The

ago there was no hurry to get there! Lynda

first birth was traumatic for me and my

kept me calm as I tried to come to terms

baby and resulted in me asking myself

things started picking up around midnight

with the fact that we weren’t going to

over and over again “what if”. The second

on Wednesday 6 July. I got my husband

make it to hospital for the relaxed water

birth made me realise how wonderful the

out of bed and he started massaging my

birth I was hoping for!

birth experience can be. Yes it was painful,

After a night and day of pre-labour,

lower back throughout the contractions.

but it was also exhilarating and joyous. I

The paramedics arrived as our baby’s

Lots of back pain with a posterior baby!

head was crowning and my husband was

felt strong and I felt complete and I was

Around 4am I decided it was time to have

getting ready to catch her. Jodie, one of

able to get up and walk around and have

a bath. The warm water was lovely and I

the paramedics, took over and it wasn’t

a shower and look after my baby within an

felt very relaxed despite the pain of the

long before Annabel made her grand,

hour of her birth.

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Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Helen Gamble, a midwife for Appletree Medical, talks about how to prepare and what you can do to achieve a vaginal birth after a caesarean.

d e e n u o y t a h w e r o f e b w o n to k aVBAC A vaginal birth after a caesarean (VBAC) is a term used when a woman has a vaginal birth after having one or more caesarean section(s). The World Health Organisation has stated that no country should have a caesarean section rate above 10-15%. In Australia we currently have caesarean section rates in excess of 30 percent. Sadly it is a fact that planning and achieving a VBAC in Australia is far less successful than in countries overseas. Whilst the likelihood of a woman having a successful VBAC is between 70-80 percent, recent statistics indicate that only 20 percent of women, or less, actually achieve a VBAC in Australia. The reasoning behind these figures is not explained, but consumers experiencing the Australian Health Care System have stated that: â&#x20AC;˘ It was often difficult to find a care provider who was willing to support a woman planning a VBAC. In many instances a non-medical reason was given to repeat the caesarean section, or discourage the VBAC. â&#x20AC;˘ Upon finding a supportive care provider, achieving the vaginal birth was impeded by other medical interventions such as continuous monitoring, or not being given enough time to make progress in labour. There are many reasons why women may have had a previous caesarean section, and in some cases those reasons can affect your decision and choice regarding your next birth. The most commonly cited risk for discouraging VBAC is uterine rupture (the old scar on the uterus coming apart), which can occur in approximately 0.4 percent of women. However, to put this risk into perspective, the probability of requiring an emergency caesarean section for a reason such as foetal distress or haemorrhage is up to 30 times higher.

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

For women who would like to have the real opportunity of VBAC, being proactive in the planning and research of their birth choice is of paramount importance. Realistically it may not be an easy journey, but one that is definitely worth trying. Your chances of a successful VBAC are more likely if: • You are a healthy weight, with a BMI of <30 • You have an estimated baby weight of <4kg • You have had a previous vaginal birth • You wait at least 12 months after a previous caesarean section before falling pregnant again There are a plethora of benefits for VBAC, including, but not limited to: • No complications associated with major abdominal surgery • Less blood loss • Shorter hospital stay • A quicker recovery after the birth • More likely to breast feed successfully • Less likely to experience postnatal depression Ideally, find out the reason for your previous caesarean section, as there may be a medical contra-indication for having a VBAC. Having this information early in the pregnancy will minimise any disappointment and will enable you to plan both emotionally and physically a repeat caesarean section.

It would be a strong recommendation to find an obstetrician and/or midwife early in your pregnancy that is supportive of your choice and who will be committed to supporting and assisting you to achieve your goals. If your care provider is not comfortable with the option of VBAC, you might want to source another care provider who would offer you the support you need. Each hospital will have written protocols and guidelines regarding VBAC. They will encompass all aspects of suitability for VBAC, what options you will have, if you go past your due date, what time restraints will be in place during labour, what are your options if labour doesn’t progress and how will the baby’s heart rate be monitored. Discuss with your care provider how these guidelines will impact on your choice. Find out from your care provider what experience they have with VBAC and how often do the women they care for have a VBAC without having an emergency caesarean section. www.havingababy.org.au gives recent statistics on birthing in Queensland... from the Centre for Mother’s and Babies. Talk to women who have experienced VBAC and check out ICAN Vaginal Birth After Caesarean Checklist for more information. VBAC support, studies and information can also be accessed from bellybelly.com.au. It may take an enormous amount of work, both physically and emotionally to achieve a VBAC but a majority of women, once they have achieved it, have been left with a profound sense of healing.

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WORDS

Jenna Galley

g n i t s e T on e…two…t hre e!

Most expectant mothers look forward to

First Trimester Testing

the various kicks and punches that come

Pregnancy Confirmation Test home

from within, however many new mothers

pregnancy test, urine test at the doctor’s

are surprised to discover that some

office or blood test

of the pokes actually originate outside the belly. Before you get out your diary to book each appointment, take the time to research each potential test so you can make an informed choice about each.

Foetal Heart Rate Doppler between week nine and week 12 of pregnancy the beating of your baby’s heart is audible.

Rubella (German measles) and potentially Varicella (chicken pox) are checked for antibodies from an infection or vaccination. STI’s including HIV and Syphilis. Hep B and Hep C are also checked for.

Midstream Urine Test checking for urinary tract infections and also Gonorrhoea, Chlamydia, and Group B

Blood group (A, B, AB or O) and anti-body

streptococcal (GBS).

screening (positive or negative for the

Cervical Cytology also known as a

Rhesus (Rh) factor). If the woman’s blood

Pap smear are done if the woman is not

is Rh(D) negative and if her baby’s blood

up-to-date.

is Rh(D) positive, the mother is given a vaccine with anti-D immunoglobulin after the birth. Women who are Rh(D) negative are tested again for the presence of positive anti-bodies later in pregnancy at around 28 weeks.

Full Blood Examination checks a range of levels including the amount of haemoglobin in the red blood cells, a white cell count and information about iron levels.

First Trimester Ultrasounds seven to nine week dating scan and 11-13 week Nuchal Translucency scan. Your care provider will generally schedule a dating scan at your estimated seven to nine weeks to confirm the pregnancy is viable and there is a foetal heartbeat. It will also check that the embryo is developing inside the womb and not in the fallopian tube (also known as an ectopic pregnancy), as well as confirming the number of embryos and calculates your estimated due date. Should you wish, you can then have a Nuchal Translucency test looking for

chromosomal abnormalities in

the foetus, such as Down’s

Syndrome.

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

For women who are ‘high risk’, other antenatal tests may be considered and discussed such as:

Don’t worry mum, we’ve got your back!

Haemoglobinopathy screening (Thalassaemia) Varicella screening (chicken pox) if there is no history of previous infection

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) this is an invasive test and does come with a risk of foetal miscarriage. Performed between ten and 12 weeks it tests for abnormalities such as Down’s syndrome, sickle-cell anaemia, thalassaemia, cystic fibrosis, Huntingdon’s chorea, muscular dystrophy and haemophilia. When CVS testing is performed by an experienced doctor, the risk of miscarriage is one in 50. The test is performed by passing a tube through the vagina into the uterus, or a needle through the abdominal wall into the uterus. Some of the chorionic tissue that surrounds the baby is then removed by suction for testing.

Second Trimester Testing Second Trimester Ultrasound an 18-20 week Morphology Scan checks for a range of things including: foetal heartbeat, detection of multiple births, foetal size, development of the foetus including spine, limbs, internal organs and brain. It also assesses the position of the placenta, volume of amniotic fluid and looks for any foetal abnormalities. The sex of the baby can also be detected at this time for parents who wish to know.

GTT or the Gestational Diabetes Test happens for ‘at risk’ women between week 24 and 28. After fasting overnight, you will be given three blood tests in total; one before you drink the glucose drink, one straight after and an hour after. This test shows how well your body copes with excessive sugar intake. The glucose drink is very sweet and some women report feeling nauseous after drinking it.

Amniocentesis another diagnostic test, occurs between weeks

At Axis Chiropractic our Chiro’ for Kids program can assist mums and their young ones with issues such as colic, reflux, breast-feeding difficulties, sleeping disturbances, recurrent ear infections, persistent sore throats, colds and bed wetting. We can also safely help pregnant women with low back, pain, sciatica, pelvic pain as well as reducing labour time and pain without drugs.

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15 and 19 of your pregnancy and is another way to determine if there are any intellectual or physical problems with the baby. This procedure involves insertion of a thin needle into the abdomen to extract a small sample of amniotic fluid. The procedure comes with a one percent chance of miscarriage and can be quite uncomfortable for the mother.

Third Trimester Testing Blood testing for iron deficiency. Third trimester ultrasound performed after 30 weeks, this checks the growth rate of the baby, the location of the placenta, identifies any uterine and pelvic abnormalities of the mother and looks for presentation and movement of the baby. With the various tests on offer you may be left wondering whether you are a pregnant mother or a pin-cushion, however, it is important to note that all of the tests, even the ones termed ‘routine’, are optional. It is up to you and your partner to research the risks and benefits of each test and then decide on which ones to do and which ones to forgo during your journey through pregnancy, labour and beyond.

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

CPC’s mummy panellist, Amanda Mathiot from Mareeba describes her experience with co-sleeping.

C0-Sleeping Around three-quarters (76%) of parents co-sleep sometimes with their baby, while 35% co-sleep frequently. Here, one family shares their experiences.

As a Mum of six kids, I find I get asked

My heart was saying something entirely

SIDS and Kids have a brochure available

the same question frequently. “How did I

different. My instincts screamed at me, to

about safe sleeping found at

survive the sleepless nights?” My answer

take my little boy and comfort him and

www.sidsandkids.org. It demonstrates

to this question is I don’t think I experienced

let him sleep in the warmth and cosiness

ways of co-sleeping as safely as possible.

that many sleepless nights. Not because my

of my arms. Once I threw away the books

Some of these include: Sleep the baby to

children were born extraordinary sleepers,

that spoke against my natural instincts

the side of one parent, not in-between.

but because I co-sleep.

as a mother and listened to my child and

Don’t push the bed against a wall.

my heart, I stopped losing sleep. I found

Never sleep with an infant on a couch or

a natural pattern to co-sleeping as each

beanbag. Make sure that bedding cannot

child came along. I would share my bed

cover the baby’s face. Use only lightweight

with my infants into their toddler years.

blankets; keep pillows, doonas and any

They would start their night in their own

other soft items well away from the baby

Each child was different and required an individual style. I found some would like to sleep with me, while others preferred their own space. I was happy to play it by the babies needs and I found it has worked well for us over the past 16 years. I didn’t start parenting like this. With my eldest I tried the control crying technique to get him to sleep in his own bed. I remember sitting in his room at 1am, my eyes

bed but when they woke for their nightly breastfeed, I would bring them into my bed to feed and sleep. We all slept well. As they grew and I would grow with another baby in my belly, I transitioned the toddler from my bed to a mattress next to

hanging out of my head, patting him on

our bed. I could comfort them if they woke

the back to get him to go to sleep. Then I’d

during the night with just my voice or my

and make sure there is nothing soft underneath the baby eg. lambs wool. Pinky McKay offers some wonderful advice on the pro’s of co-sleeping in her article, “co-sleeping is it part of bonding”. Check out www.pinkymckay.com.au Co-sleeping has worked for us as a

tiptoe out of his room for him to instantly

hand as I would reach down and touch

family. It is how we all got the most sleep

wake up and start crying. The books said

them. They knew I was close. Again, I was

and I was able to bond with my children

I must leave his room in stages so that he

able to do this without losing sleep.

while we slept. I learnt early on that a

was able to separate from me. The books

As the toddlers confidence grew and they

lot of parenting involves finding things

said I needed to ignore his crying for

were ready they would then start sleeping

that worked for me and my children and

controlled period of times.

in their own room.

trusting my instincts.

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a communit y of

g n i n r a e L

Aside from the conventional education system, there are many organisations and wonderful educators helping to shape our children’s future, providing quality education delivered in their own special way. HOME-SCHOOLING

the standard conditions of registration,

excursions, investigative learning and lots

Most parents want what’s best for their

which are providing their child with a high

of practical hands-on materials that are

child and for some that means educating

quality education and demonstrating their

suited to the age, ability, aptitude and

their kids at home. As at the end of

child’s educational progress. Parents who

development of the child.

October 2011, there are 898 children

home school become soley responsible

registered, or provisionally registered, for

for planning, implementing, and

to Queensland Studies Authority (QSA)

home education in Queensland.

evaluating their child’s learning program.

syllabus documents and there are many

Generally, this type of education is

It is important that parents who home-

All parents have free online access

networks, support groups and resources

primarily conducted in the child’s home

educate have a program that meets the

that exist in Australia, specifically

and must be taught by one, or both, of the

individual needs of the child, as opposed

designed to help provide the right tools

child’s parents or by a registered teacher.

to a child having to fit into a parent’s

needed to educate from home.

To home-educate a child the parent is

particular educational philosophy.

Melissa from Trinity Beach has been

not required to be a registered teacher.

Many parents who home-educate

home schooling for the last five years.

However, in order to register their child

base their child’s program on the state’s

”Home schooling our two children has

for home education, parents must meet

curriculum as taught in schools, and

been a natural step for us. I believe that

use a wide range of resources including

children have a natural curiosity to learn, and by providing an environment that supports them to explore their interests, they develop as individuals. Our children have ample opportunity to develop their creativity through play, have active participation in the community and the Internet is a useful tool for more formal learning. Through our love of travel they have experienced other countries, customs and cultures. As a family we are sharing this journey together. Sometimes the path gets a bit bumpy, messy and noisy but that is part of the fun! I truly wouldn’t have it any other way.” If you’re interested in home schooling there are some great websites where you can start to read and research. Try the Home Education Association, the Home Education Network and the Queensland Government’s Home Education Unit.

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

MONTESSORI Montessori is an educational philosophy based on the work of Maria Montessori (1870-1952). Maria Montessori, a true philanthropist, was the first female to graduate in medicine in Italy. Montessori was a pioneer in early childhood pedagogy, drawing inspiration from her background in paediatrics, psychiatry and anthropology she observed children and discovered what they required to learn, to evolve, to develop their full

A Montessori child at ‘work’.

potentialities, creating an educational approach in aid of life itself. Montessori dedicated her life to

are welcome contributors to the group. Practical life activities are an indirect

improving the lives of children and

preparation for more complex tasks in

earnt her three nominations for a Nobel

language and mathematics.

Peace Prize. Montessori is an education on the

Grace and courtesy is an important element of the Montessori curriculum.

harmony of life, nurturing the human

Lessons in grace and courtesy enable us

spirit through respecting children’s

to fully participate within society as we

uniqueness and unfolding personalities.

learn what is acceptable, ie. how to move

The Montessori teacher is the living bridge

our bodies, carry delicate objects, carry

between the child and the environment

furniture, introduce ourselves, excuse

and has a unique role in maintaining the

ourselves from the group.

beauty and order, facilitating the natural

Children work with concrete materials

process of learning. In a Montessori

that enable control of error and self-

setting, children have freedom of

correction while establishing a sound

choice in a prepared environment, their

foundation and positive relationship with

desire to learn and explore is respected,

mathematics. Mathematics is introduced

further fuelling their love for learning

in many ways, including; practical life

and life. Respect for the environment

activities, food preparation and other

and humankind is synonymous to the

areas of the curriculum.

Montessori philosophy. The homelike

By isolating specific tasks, children

environment enables the children to

are able to express themselves

function as a community, instilling a sense

through creating stories, reading and

of belonging and empowerment.

writing. Learning is not deliberately

Montessori referred to children’s play

accelerated, however, the unique training,

as ‘work’, as any purposeful activity that

environment and curriculum enables

the child engages in helps to construct

children to master these tasks when

the inner self. Montessori believed that

they are ready.

learning and movement are intertwined,

While Montessori graduates tend to

not only during early childhood but

perform well in areas such as literacy

beyond. Montessori marvelled about the

and numeracy it must be highlighted

relationship between using our hands to

that Montessori also provides a sound

explore and create.

foundation for life-long success. It is not

Practical life refers to the every day

sheer coincidence that many successful

activities that we do in order to take

entrepreneurs tribute their success to

care of self, others and the environment.

their early learning in Montessori.

Participating in practical life activities

To find out more about Montessori

instils a sense of belonging and sends a

contact Amanda Munro at

passive message that they are valued and

cairnsmontessori@gmail.com Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

CAIRNS SCHOOL OF DISTANCE EDUCATION For more then 39 years the Cairns School of Distance Education (formerly Cairns School of the Air) has been providing a muchneeded service to many regional families. Starting with only 11 pupils the School has grown to over 400 students in 2011. The Cairns School of Distance Education caters for students from Prep to Year 12 from not only remote and regional areas, but also local families who have chosen to home school their children for various reasons. Currently teachers use telephone, email, electronic discussion and project rooms, and data conferencing to teach students and home tutors. The school offers a wide range of academic programs in the 8 Key Learning areas (KLAs). Curriculum is organised and delivered via scheduled phone lessons, print and electronic materials used in the home and face-to-face at field activities. All on-air classes and print materials are organised on a year level basis. Special provisions are made for learning support students. Prep-Year 7 curriculum is offered in 16 fortnightly theme based units supported by a resource pack. The school has seen

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the benefit of expanding their services to students and families with Music Camps, Career oriented camps, Language Camps, Residential Schools, Artist in Residence programs, Technology Camps and Mini Schools held across the Cape.

CANDLENUT STEINER SCHOOL Candlenut Steiner School follows the international education system known as Steiner or Waldorf education. The first school to follow this approach was opened in Stuttgart in 1919 and there are now over 1,000 Steiner schools worldwide. Steiner education is named after its founder, the Austrian philosopher and scientist, Dr Rudolf Steiner. It is a system that endeavours to educate the whole child.

mas Ideal X the t presen mily a f whole n use! ca

This holistic approach aims to equally address the areas of academics, artistic experience and practical skills, along with an overarching intention to nurture the human spirit. We believe that educating children in this way produces well-rounded, confident and capable adults. Through this balanced approach our students develop clarity of thought, a sensitivity of feeling, and a

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The Steiner method encourages each child to reach their own full potential and express their uniqueness and individuality. This free, peaceful and respectful environment. We believe that when children are required to compete against each other to achieve externally imposed goals it inhibits the development of their individuality. Steiner education prefers motivation and direction to come from within the depths of each human being. It is the teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role to kindle the spark that ignites a lifelong love of learning through creative, caring and inspired teaching.

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Steiner education makes extensive use of the arts as a medium through which learning can take place. The teacher may introduce drawing, painting, modelling, drama, music or poetry to any lesson

to avoid delivery fees.

content, be it language work, maths, history, geography, science and so on.

These arts balance intellectual achievement and allow for aesthetic self-expression and a depth of feeling experience. An educational experience rich in the arts acts as a healing and nourishing force for the students, and counteracts the often superficial and materialistic nature of our modern world. This form of education divides child development into sevenyear cycles. Every year within each cycle has its own challenges, opportunities, expressions and defining features. Teachers actively work through this framework to provide curriculum content, tasks and experiences that harmonise with the age and stage of development of the child.

Ever y child lear

ns to play a mus

ical instrumen

This theory of childhood cycles arises from Steiner’s insights into human nature as expressed in his philosophy known as Anthroposophy. The task of the Steiner teacher is a challenging one. Not only do they have to be fully university trained and registered with the Queensland College of Teachers, but they also undertake further specialised Steiner teacher training. Each teacher follows their class as they progress through the seven Primary years, which creates a deep and special bond

The five year old ’s ‘cla

ssroom’.

between them. This bond ensures that the teacher develops a thorough understanding of the needs of every child in their care. After Primary School, the students enter the High School, where they are taught by specialist teachers in each subject area. Candlenut Steiner School grew out of a need for an educational alternative in our community. The school opened its doors in 2002 with 25 children accommodated in a small house in Stratford. A 40 acre bush property in Kuranda was purchased six years later as a permanent school site, and the school moved there in 2008. The property is a beautiful, tranquil place traversed by walking tracks and seasonal creeks, with a ten minute walk to the lovely Barron River. The school is named after the Candlenut tree, which is a native bush tucker tree found in the area and, in its simplest form, means ‘seed of light’. In mythology, the Candlenut tree symbolises enlightenment, peace and protection. Candlenut offers an internationally comparable Steiner program that meets all state and national standards. Our school offers an excellent education in peaceful natural surroundings.

Our class sizes are small, and in addition to a strong academic program in literacy, numeracy and the sciences, our students experience music by singing and learning to play an instrument. Candlenut also teaches a wide range of crafts such as knitting, sewing, felt work, wax modelling, ceramics and painting, as well as organic food gardening and woodwork. For further information or an enrolment package please visit our website at www.candlenutsteinerschool.qld.edu.au

Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

The staff of Westcourt Early Learning Centre foster children’s love of learning by, supporting and encouraging their natural curiosity. We believe it is important to instil confidence, trust and honesty in children by supporting and guiding their interactions and play.

Catering to 5 months to 6 years, before & afterschool care.

Brothers Leagues Club 99 Anderson St Manunda. brotherscairns.com

6.30am - 6.30pm 40-42 Tills Street, Westcourt

Ph 4053 1053

embracing potential

A holistic approach to education, health and wellbeing during the early years. Equip your child with the skills to become a successful lifelong learner. • QLD Government approved Kindergarten program • Owned & operated by Montessori early childhood teacher/local mum • Whole/raw food focused program • Daily yoga sessions • Extended day operation 7am till 6pm (CCB available) • 15 months to 6 years

9 Brose Street White Rock QLD 4868 Contact us at cairnsmontessori@gmail.com • ph: (07) 4036 1055

www.cairnsmontessori.com.au 20

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

e: westcourtecl@ bigpond.com.au • p: 4033 5170

Support for

Grandparents

Imagine you have raised your own children and started the next phase of life, retirement. Then, through circumstances, you end up as the carer of your grandchildren. So much has changed since you raised your own and these kids need support that you may not be sure how to give. Now there is a group that helps these Grandparents. Playgroup Queensland in conjunction with Parenting Research Centre are now providing support and information for local Grandparents who are the primary carers - whether they have custody or not, of their grandchild aged newborn to 18 years. Grandparents meet in groups and find out about local support

that is available for them as they care for their grandchildren. MyTime groups provide a place to meet with other grandparents to discuss issues that affect their lives. Grandparents can socialise and share ideas with others who understand their caring role. Brigitte, the facilitator, who is experienced in running both support and playgroups, attends every session and responds to the members’ requests to organise the venue, sessions and excursions. Speakers are invited from local service providers to address issues of interest to the members. Should members wish to bring pre-school aged children, activities can be organised.

Curtis Pitt at Village Kids Bentley Park

A wo rd fro m Curti s Pit t

New for FNQ Families

Kindergarten Subsidy As the father of two young children I understand the need for all kids here in the Far North to get a great head start to education. That’s why the Bligh Government’s announcement that we’re making early education more affordable is so important. All Health Care Card Holders are now able to claim a subsidy from their service provider. This is great news and will mean Far North Queensland families accessing kindergarten services will be entitled to a subsidy worth up to $1179 a year. For families accessing kindy through a long day care service, the subsidy is worth $402 a year, as these services are also subsidised by the Australian Government. By extending the subsidy available to Health Care Card holders, kindergarten becomes even more affordable, particularly for low-income families. Accessing this new subsidy is simple. All you need to do is show your Health Care Card to the Queensland Government-approved kindergarten program provider that you use and you’ll be able to claim your entitlement. The funds provided through these subsidies are paid to the kindergarten service and deducted from the out-ofpocket fees payable by parents. Research indicates children who participate in a quality early education enjoy a flying start to learning and life and this is another stepping stone by the government to achieve that. As the Government we’re committed to providing every child in Queensland with access to a quality kindergarten program by 2014. We’re investing $321 million to establish up to 240 extra kindergarten services across the state, ensuring all Queenslanders have access to a quality kindergarten program. We want to help all children to have a flying start to their education and we recognise that some families need extra support to take advantage of the available opportunities.

MyTime for Grandparents Ca

irns:

Meets on the 2 nd and 4 th Thu rsdays of the month during school term times. Fro m 12. 30pm - 2.3 0pm at St Margaret ’s Church Hal l at 230 Aumuller Street, Cairns. To find out more pho ne Brigitte on 0427 837 327 or visit ww w.m ytime.net.au

We’re also doing a range of things like offering scholarships to childcare workers to upgrade their qualifications so they can teach kindergarten, and providing incentives to early childhood teachers to relocate to regional and remote communities. The State Government is committed to ensuring all children can participate in a kindergarten program no matter what their personal or family circumstances might be.

www.curtispitt.com.au Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

the rise of

e m o h t a y sta The rise of the wonder-mum who juggles

DADs

In 2003 a study found 91 percent of

WORDS

Nikki Taylor

Understandably men do not feel at

full-time work, family and friends with the

fathers with children aged 15 years and

home surrounded entirely by mums

greatest of ease has opened the floodgates

under were employed with a whopping

discussing breastfeeding, hormones and

for another modern parenting superhero –

85 percent employed on a full-time basis.

post pregnancy weight loss.

the doting stay-at-home dad (SAHD).

The study also found some couples elect

As a result many can experience

to have the father stay at home purely to

feelings of isolation, alienation and

give them more time with their children.

inferiority stemming from the belief

For others, external circumstances such

they are “different” from their traditional,

as unemployment or disability were the

breadwinning peers.

Traditionally, gender stereotypes have seen the family man viewed purely as the sole ‘provider’ and pegged the woman as the apron-wearing, child-caring all round cook. But over the years a dramatic shift in social values has seen massive changes when it comes to the individual roles and responsibilities within families. According to a 2008 study conducted

reason behind the choice. Fathers who

According to author, and stay-at-home

were permanently unable to work made

dad, James Windsor, the lack of intellectual

up 14,700 or 9 percent of fathers that were

stimuli and adult interaction can

unemployed.

contribute to these feelings. “It’s not

But despite the proven increase in stay-

always intellectually challenging,” he said.

by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there

at-home fathers, there remains a significant

“But then again, it depends on your

were 12,000 stay at home dads in Australia,

gap in the availability of quality support

approach. “There is far more positive than

an increase of almost 36 percent over the

groups and resources while there is a high

negative, and once you find your way, you

two years since 2006. This compared to

volume of mothers’ groups and female-led

won’t look back.”

230,000 stay at home mums.

parenting forums.

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

An obvious positive for men choosing to stay at home is the extra one-on-one time with the kids and while this can be a daunting prospect for some, many find it a great excuse to tap into their inner child the way only fully grown men seem to be able to do. Other advantages include saving on the cost of childcare, teamed with the comfort of knowing your child is safe and well looked after. While support and resources for stay-at-home dads are certainly not at the level they should be, there does appear to be an increasing recognition in society that their role and relationship with a child is important. Both parents can have many different roles in a family, ranging from income providers, educators and carers right through to the all-important position of role model. As a result, balancing paid work and family responsibilities has become a highly important issue for both parents. Ultimately it can never be a bad thing for a father to have more involvement in their child’s life. Their presence and attention brings with it a stability and strength that only a male figure can provide. LOCAL RESOURCES: • Cairns Fathers Men’s Group meets every Wednesday, ph: 0410831704. • Lone Fathers Association Cairns - Support group, ph: 4041 2762. ONLINE RESOURCES: • www.fathersonline.org • http://social.careforkids.com.au/group/dadsgroup • http://www.babycenter.com.au

A Local Bloke Stay-at-Home Dad (SAHD) - Walter from Manunda Care Arrangements: At home with 17 months old, Hope, 4 days per week and self employed as a Massage Therapist. Best thing about being a SAHD: Spending all the time at home with Hope, seeing the world through her eyes and learning about new things as she does. Most Challenging thing about being a SAHD: Being constantly out of your depth! Learning to be flexible - kids don’t run by rules they run by guidelines!

Day Dad’sout

Dad’s bring the kids down for a morning of fun and ‘Dad time’. Meet other dad’s and enjoy a cuppa in the air-conditioned comfort while the kids run wild. Hosted by Cairns Parenting Companion and Gecko’s Play Centre for children 0 - 11 years

3rd Saturday of each month 9.30am-11.30am Tickets: $20 per adult and includes up to 2 children (additional children $10 each) Admission includes, morning tea and access to the playgrounds and jumping castles.

Saturday 17th December 2011 Saturday 21st January 2012 Saturday 18th February 2012

Gecko’s Indoor Play Centre Northern Carpark of Smithfield Shopping Centre Bookings are not essential but preferred, email: playdate@parentingcompanion.com.au Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Michael Slatcher BDSc. Qld. M.Sc. London

WINNER!

PA L M C O V E

HEALTHY

mummies

crusade To help Cairns Mums get ready for summer, in our last issue, CPC set out a challenge. CONGRATULATIONS to our winner, Nicci Currie who made a conscious effort to promote a healthier lifestyle for her kids. Nicci received a Mummy Makeover, accommodation and breakfast, overnight babysitting plus 6 personal training sessions. Well done Nicci! .

Nicci before

To WIN yourself a Mummy Makeover see pag

e 59

Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

if rst foods

mum’s tips on what’s best

One thing you can be sure of when you start to make that transition from milk to solids, it’s a messy time. So be prepared. Have at the ready lots of bibs, face washers and a big mat under the highchair to catch the spills. Experts advise that starting your baby on solids doesn’t mean replacing breastfeeding. In fact it’s recommended you give your baby a feed of breastmilk or formula first, because when babies are really hungry, they’ll just want to go straight to what they knows satisfies their hunger. As usual, like everything that comes with parenting, talk to other mothers about their ideas and work out what’s best for your baby.

Signs your baby may be ready for Solids Baby can hold her head up and can sit up without too much assistance. Has gained a healthy weight. Most babies are ready to eat semi-solids when they’ve doubled their birth weight. This may happen before or around their sixth month. Baby imitates eating behaviours. Baby may make chewing motions. Baby may dribble less. Once they start swallowing their saliva it generally means they can swallow food. Baby becomes curious about what you’re eating. Starts eye-balling your meals and reaching out to try foods you’re moving from your plate to your mouth. Baby shows an increased appetite for breastfeeds or formula.

FROM OUR MUMMY PANEL

THE VERSATILE BANANA WORDS Baby Bowl Author, Kim McCosker

ABBEY I have not ever fed any of my children prior to six months of age but my fourth child, Isaac, is so different. He was ready at four months so I started him on Organic rice cereal, with a bit of breast milk added! My grandmother also recommended Arrowroot biscuits, so I mix them up with a bit of boiled water or breast milk.

My favourite ‘lifetime’ food that can be fed from six months is the humble banana. From six months of age, simply peel and mash this wonderful, versatile fruit providing powerful nutrients as dietary fibre. At eight to ten months, a simple variation is Banana Maple Cream – a luscious mix of creamy yoghurt, maple syrup and mashed banana.

CHERYL I would wrap apple or pear in a cotton/ muslum cloth and clip it closed with one of those colourful plastic multi-purpose clips for sealing bags. That way they could hold on to the clip and gum/suck the food to their hearts content.

From 12 months and beyond, Banana Pancakes are a wonderful way to continue healthy eating of this fruit, and a beautiful breakfast recipe the entire family will enjoy.

AMANDA I start with feeding them a spoonful after their milk, but not immediately after. At around six to seven months, I like to introduce finger foods. NANCY My son was born 9lb 13oz and was always hungry as a baby. I decided to start him on solids at three and a half months. He loved it and was a very happy baby who slept better.

Always offer nutritious foods to your baby one at a time to ensure there are no hidden allergies. Be mindful when introducing foods such as eggs, certain seafoods, peanuts, sesame seeds and honey. These may cause a reaction or illness, and if your baby does show adversity, the problem can be easier to identify.

MARIANNE In my experience a general rule of thumb on when to start feeding an infant solids, is when bubba stops sleeping through the night and is hungry in-between feeds.

recipe book giveaway For your chance to win Baby Bowl tell us your favourite first food recipe. Email your entry to: win@parentingcompanion.com.au Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

WORDS

Danae Owen - Cairns Paediatric Psychology

Saying

Though separation anxiety is a perfectly normal part of childhood development, it can be unsettling.

“ Goo dbye”

Have you ever left your child’s school so quickly it felt like you were fleeing a fire? After assisting many families experiencing difficulties saying goodbye, I found myself in a similar situation when one of the smaller members of our family decided school was not for them and that being with Mum was more fun. What a dilemma! Separation anxiety is a normal emotion in children between ages eight and 24 months. This anxiety usually resolves when children realise their parents will return. In some children, separation anxiety persists beyond this time or returns later. It may be severe enough to be considered a disorder. Separation anxiety disorder commonly occurs in younger children and rarely occurs after puberty. Approximately three to four percent of children will develop separation anxiety disorder.

SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS Dramatic scenes typically occur at the time of separation. Separation scenes are typically painful for both the child and parent (or caregiver). Children often wail and plead with such desperation that the parent cannot leave, resulting in protracted scenes that are difficult to interrupt. When separated, children focus on their parent returning and are often worried their parent has been harmed. Children may refuse to sleep alone and may even insist on always being in the same room as their parent. Children may complain of headaches, nausea or other illnesses when faced with a separation. Some children may even vomit from the distress caused. The child may experience nightmares about separation, death or loss (eg. being kidnapped or in an accident) and may have associated sleep difficulties. These children will do whatever is in their power to avoid separating from parents by avoiding school, sleeping alone and declining invitations from their friends for sleep-overs. Interestingly, the child behaves normally when their parent (or caregiver) is present. This behaviour can sometimes give a false impression the problem is minor. The child’s anxiety can be made worse by the parent’s anxiety which assists the child’s level of anxiety to grow. Sometimes this cycle can be short-circuited only by sensitive and appropriate psychological treatment for the parent and their child.

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

WHAT PARENTS CAN DO • Be confident your child will overcome the problem and let your child know you believe in them. • Try not to let your child see you are worried. • Listen to your child and encourage them to tell you about their feelings and fears. • Let them know you understand how they feel. • Don’t make fun of their feelings. • Telling them big kids do not get scared is unhelpful - everyone is afraid sometimes. • Ignoring your child’s feelings may lead to your child finding it hard to tell you when they are worried.

BUILDING A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR CHILD’S TEACHER Check with the teacher what is happening at school. It is important a good relationship with your child’s teacher is developed. You and the teacher are the most important adults in your child’s life whilst your child is at school. Positive change will occur when your child understands you have confidence and share a trusting bond with their teacher. In Cairns we are fortunate to have Guidance Officers and School Counsellors who can support teachers and children overcoming these difficulties. Contact with these key support people can be organised via your child’s teacher or by making enquiries at the school administration office.

HELPFUL TIPS FOR SAYING GOODBYE • Make sure your child knows when you are leaving and when you will be back. • Make the goodbye brief - don’t drag it out. • When your child becomes distressed on separation briefly. remind them of the plan you have developed (eg. coping skills, a reward for being brave) and when you will return. • Let your child know you will be doing something boring while they are at school. • Be reliable and on time when picking up after school. Have a plan for times when you might unavoidably be late. • Settle your child in an enjoyable activity before leaving. For example, start playing puzzles or, with their teacher’s support, have your child engage in helping tasks to assist other class members. • Sometimes it is helpful if your child says goodbye to you at home and a friend’s parent takes them to school. • Let the child take something of yours in their pocket to look after during the day (it need not be something valuable but needs to be something your child knows is yours and that you would not want to lose). • Give your child as much control over the problem as you can ask them what they think will help and then try that. • Keep a relaxed /happy expression on your face. If you show your child worried and distressed facial expressions, then they will think the place is not safe. Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

With Nicole

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

skills. Give your child life der musik class. in K a in em th l ro En

Classes recommencing 30 January 2012.

Go to: www.kmusikcairns.com or call Nicole m: 0418 772 258 Providing babies and children with music education in Cairns continuously since 1998.

her Teacfeature Talking with Vivian O’Brien from Isabella State School

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I came to teaching after I had my own two daughters, Rebecca and Alison. I was really enjoying teaching them at home and wanted to share my enthusiasm for educating children in my career. This interest lead to working first in Family Day Care, Child Care and then at the Queensland University of Technology. The entire family were all going to school at that stage and it was a very hectic life. Tell us a bit about your teaching career so far? I graduated in 2000 from QUT and my family was living in Brisbane where the Education Department offered me a job at Samford State School (on the outer northwest of Brisbane). I could not believe my luck to be teaching at such a wonderful school. My role included teaching Year 1, Year 2 and Reading Recovery. After seven wonderful years it was time for a change and a challenge. My daughters had finished school and I decided to take up a position teaching Prep at Hope Vale State School (an indigenous school north of Cooktown). Now I am enjoying teaching at Isabella State School and have been here for the last three years with Year 1 and Prep.

What would you say is the most rewarding thing about teaching? I find every day is different and interesting. Every teacher would say, “It’s about the kids” and I agree, as it is such a joy to seeing students learning. I love to share a little of my interests with my class and they are delighted in learning about what makes their teacher smile. For instance, I like to wear frocks to school for Frocktober and fundraise for Ovarian Cancer research. What is the most challenging aspect of teaching? I find I have to be fit to work with young children as it takes a lot of energy to be on top of such a busy and demanding job. You just can’t have a “quiet day” if you are tired, so it is important to have balance in your life and regular exercise too. If you weren’t a teacher what you would be and why? A travel presenter for ”Getaway” would be a nice alternative.

WI N

WHO WILL BE OUR NEXT TEACHER FEATURE? They could be an educator, mentor, coach or day carer. Just by nominating you could win one of three $30 Itunes cards from Talk to the Mac. PLUS our ‘Teacher Feature’ receives a $50 Harleys Educational voucher and Cheesecake Shop morning tea delivered to their door!

Nominate them now! Email your nominations to

win@parentingcompanion.com.au PHOTO Miss Viv with students Hayley Barba, Paiten Gorrie, Daniel Bowlen and Ella Astle.

THANKS TO:

“I like do in g art w ith Miss Viv an d she teaches me new thin gs.” Daniel Bowlen “S chool is fun. I think Miss Viv is the best teacher ever. I like doing ma ths, scien ce an d art with her.” Ella Astle Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

t h os e

Is it okay to tell a little white lie to our kids? Naomi Wilson of Spectrum Counselling, with her thoughts on the matter.

little white lies

The dictionary defines a lie as, “a false statement made with deliberate intent to deceive; an intentional untruth”. So there it is – a lie is a lie - there is no little white lie... it is told with ‘deliberate intention’. Do you find that it is easy to tell a little white lie to your children and some adults? Not surprisingly many people do find it easy to ‘deceive with deliberate intent’. There was a reading product some years ago that ‘taught’ children to read through the use of flash cards and discussions in many mothers groups subsequently included the question “How many words can your child recognise?” Playgroup mums have told me many times how they fibbed with their answers just to be the same as everyone else. What is the point of a little white lie in this situation? For the minimal amount of time it would take to tell the lie, the maximum impact can be dangerously harmful. Being up-front with your children and others is always best because many times the little fibs that are used to cover something up can come undone and result in embarrassment and hurt. Is it okay though to tell a fib to intentionally help someone, whether it is through shaping their behaviour or redirecting them to other, safer activities? How many parents have said to children who ask for a biscuit just before bedtime, “No darling – there are none left”. Many times parents use this type of Little White Lies in desperation, and while it does not harm the child – it is none-the-less a fib! A research study in the UK found that the average parent will tell their child about 3000 Little White Lies during their childhood. They stated that this was done to protect them from the outside world, to keep them safe (“the boogie man will get you if...”) or to make themselves or their children feel better. So what about stories that focus on Santa Clause, the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny etc? All can be fun Little White Lies but there is a difference to an actual lie.

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

There is the knowledge that all will eventually be revealed and the child will discover the true identity of these loveable ‘community characters’. It is a shame that on many occasions Santa Clause, the Tooth Fairy and the Easter Bunny are used as threats

Our Mummy Panellists reveal their ‘little white lies’.

as in the example of: “If you are not good Santa will not visit you”.

EMMA HALL

Some parents continue this threat for the entire year. What a strain

Water bottles have a label (or imprinted) with the

that must be on children trying to maintain their behaviour just to

instructions, “MUST ONLY BE FILLED WITH WATER”

get an egg or present! In this case the Little White Lie is being used

and that it will explode if filled with cordial, juice or any

to manipulate, which is not good modelling for children.

other substances. And on those days when it’s just all

The little white lie is generally taken as a harmless lie told without harmless motives. Children will lie to protect themselves and to minimise pain in search of their happiness. Children as young as three years of age can lie, with the intensity and frequency increasing gradually through adolescence, misleading adults not only for their own gain but also to serve the function of protecting their mates. As parents it is best to talk to your child about lying. Identify to them that honesty is one of the family values, and praise them for their honesty when they have told the truth – especially when

too hard to go somewhere I use the lie, “The car has ran out of petrol”. NANCY JOHNSTONE I do tell white lies and they are mostly to do with food. Like, “eat all your vegetables and you will grow up big and strong”. And, “carrots are great for your eyes” or, “too many lollies will make your teeth fall out”. My other favourite little white lie is that there is special water in our pool that turns dark blue if you do a wee! I think that one works.

you can recognise that it was difficult for them to do. Let children

AMANDA MATHIOT

know that there are NO secrets in the family and they do not have

I’ve told my kids that the tooth fairy was away on holidays

to lie to you.

and that’s why she forgot to leave money for the tooth

A parent’s reaction when faced with a child who has ‘fessed up’ is also very important. I rather enjoy the story of George Washington at 6 years old who told his father “I cannot tell a lie for my heart is pure” when queried about chopping his mothers precious cherry tree. George Washington’s father responded by saying, “My son, that you should not be afraid to tell the truth is more to me than a thousand trees”. There are occasions when children are forced into lying by another adult if they have been or, are being, abused. They lie to protect the perpetrator, and they feel terrified that they will suffer if they tell anyone. It is within a parent’s mantle of care of their child that should they suspect child abuse they firstly need to assure the child that they are safe to tell you, and then contact a professional, reassuring the child that they have done nothing wrong by telling, and praise the child for telling the truth. In summing up, every parent must make the choice – to lie or not to lie, and question themselves as to what they are teaching their child by lying, for whatever reason.

under the pillow. CHERYL BRITTON I tell the kids that the fairies in the garden leave a lolly for the boys when they are playing nicely. We make a fairy circle from stones then go inside and wait. Also, when we are walking on the beach, I hide coins in the sand for the boys to find and tell them it might be treasure. ABBEY DAGG I try not to lie. I hate the whole concept of lying, and I don’t lie to anyone! When my children have lied and I have caught them out, they will ALWAYS get into more trouble for lying! There are also NEVER any secrets in our house, only surprises. The difference? A secret has to be kept. A surprise has a happy ending that comes out eventually. This way they don’t bottle anything up and don’t keep secrets! This is part of protective behaviours also. They know they can ALWAYS tell me anything!

BADMINTON || BASKETBALL || CIRCUS || STATE OF THE ART GYMNASIUM ZUMBA || CIRCUS SKILLS || ROBOTICS AND JUNIOR TAE KWON DO GYMNASTICS - RECREATION CLASSES LEVEL 1- 4 BOYS & GIRLS

McNAMARA STREET - MANUNDA - PH: 4053 1532 Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Art of Giving The

Sometimes the best presents are the ones that are made with love. Here are a few ideas to help you create some home-made gifts with your family.

ARTISTIC GIFTS

PRESENTS THAT GROW

A TROPICAL PRESENT

Get the kids to paint a canvas for the grandparents. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a nice way to display their creativity.

Grab some herb seeds and get the kids to help you plant them. Watch them grow then replant them in a nice pot for a Christmas present grown with love.

We take the kids to the beach and spend some time collecting shells. Once you get a decent amount you can glue them onto wooden frames, craft boxes and mirrors etc. We paint the item first and then hot glue on the shells. They make nice pressies and are fun to make.

HOME MADE TREATS and CARDS Every year we make rum balls, apricot balls, short bread, and sometimes white Christmas! We then wrap them in cellophane bags and tie with Christmas ribbon. The kids make cards by cutting up last years Christmas cards and sticking them on paper. We then deliver this to the neighbours. For interstate guests the kids make the cards and we send them a Santa photo of that year!

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

What kids say about...

PICTURE STORY BOOK All of our family live down south so every year we make a picture story book for them - a reflection of our year. We include photos and a story and include all our special events and milestones eg. birthdays, first day at kindy/school, swimming, camping trips, sports and other special occasions. The kids decorate the book and draw pictures. It becomes a very personal present for family.

BOX OF LOVE Our kids decorate a shoe-box and cut out pictures of all the things they love doing and want to share with the recipient of the box. It’s a great way to take the emphasis off the material aspect of Christmas and keeps the kiddies entertained for ages collecting items/pictures for the box.

A MUSICAL CHRISTMAS A Von Trapp Christmas: If the 4.30am start is not enough to send you nutty on Christmas Day, a Von Trapp Family concert will top the day off nicely. Have kids make musical instruments prior (ie. rice shaker, elastic band guitar, jingle stick etc), decorate them Christmas style, put them in a Christmas decorated box and have a lucky dip on Christmas day. Kids and adults can then put on a special Christmas Day concert.

PHOTO Pine Creek Pictures: Kids- Trey, Bodhi and Aaliyah Mathiot; Errol & Abbey Diefenbach; Courtney, Zara & Isac Dagg; Myles and Max Britton; Jessie and Taylor Soper; plus Deklan & Keenan Buchanan McNamee.

Santa!

WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT SANTA CLAUS? Toby: He flies in the nighttime, and he’s at the shops. Errol: That he is magical, he has a flying sleigh and his reindeers lead it! Zara: You shake his hand. Courts: He gives you presents. Max: He is nice and brings presents.

HAVE YOU EVER MET HIM? Toby: I met him one time but I haven’t seen his car. Abbey: No, never! Errol: No, only the elves have met him. Courts: No, only his elves that dress up like him. Myles: Yes, at Cairns Central. Max: Yes, at the North Pole.

HOW DOES HE KNOW WHAT GIFTS YOU WANT? Toby: He talked to my cousins. Abbey: You have to wish for them and sometimes you get what you wished for. Errol: He can hear us because he is magical. Courts: You go to the shops, you wait in line and you tell his helper. Then you get your photo taken so he remembers who you are and what you want! Myles: You ask him and you can write a letter but sometimes you don’t get it because I asked for a remote control car last time. Max: Mummy has to tell him.

HOW DOES HE GET INTO YOUR HOUSE TO LEAVE THE PRESENTS? Toby: He just opens the door. Abbey: Down the chimney. Errol: He goes through the door magically. Courts: I think he does magic to get in cause we have no chimney. Myles: He has all the keys for all the houses. Max: Through the back door. Mummy opens it for him.

HAVE YOU EVER CAUGHT HIM IN YOUR HOUSE? Abbey: No, but once I think my brother and I seen him. Zara and Courts: No! Myles: No, but the reindeers left snowy footprints at our old house (FYI this was talc powder).

DO YOU THINK HE KNOWS WHEN YOU HAVE BEEN BAD? Toby: No, because I’ve been good lots of times. Errol: No because he can only hear us but he can’t see us! Courts: Yes, because he sees you through the big telescope! Myles: Yes, he rings Mummy to find out. Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Baby Carrier

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

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Various Party Plans available to suit your special occasion. Including food platters, birthday song, party bags, tea and coffee for mum and dad and so much more.

Babythingamijigs offer a variety of top-quality, innovative products from around the world. Visit our website today! e: cairns@babythingamajigs.com • p: 4059 0334 or visit or website:

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www.cairnsrecreationcentre.com.au Phone: 4053 5353 Address: 44 Behan Street, Manunda 4870

Summerlidays o PU L L O U T

Guide

busy Full of ideas to keep â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;em days!

mer holi r Summer. over the sum rectory and local info fo

PLUS a handy Services Di

Photo courtesy of Steffen Binke Photography www.steffenbinke.com

This season...

CAIRNS INDOOR SPORTS

Action packed fun, out of the weather Every School Holidays - Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 1pm to 3pm. Cost is only $7 per session. All ages catered for. Come & play Indoor Cricket, Netball, Soccer, Beach Volleyball & Dodgeball. 164 Mayers Street Manunda p: 4032 2844 www.cairnsindoorsports.com.au

COME TO CAIRNS CENTRAL for loads of school holiday fun.

Yogi Bear from 16 - 20 January Shows daily 11am & 1pm at Centre Court Plus Cairns Has Got Talent from 9-14 January Heats: Monday 9 – Friday 13. Juniors (5-12 years) at 11am, Seniors (13-17 years) at 1pm, Final Saturday 14 Jan from 11am. Corner Mcleod and Spence Street Cairns p: 4041 4111 www.cairnscentral.com.au

STAY

hydrated

SonPRmozAzieY repellant

SonLsoAmPe

sunscreen

ASTVINOGEIRDS

Summer Make it the best ever with our

s y a d i l o H Guide

A guide of local activities, destinations and ideas to keep the family entertained these school holidays.

THE YOUNG COMPANY

Theatre for children and young people Discover the magic of drama with TYC. Participants make lots of new friends and improve their self-confidence, communication and presentation skills, finishing with a performance. Holiday and term programs available. 169 Bunda St Cairns City p: 40 41 4066 www.theyoungcompany.com.au

THE CaPTA GROUP’S WILDLIFE PARKS Four of the best wildlife parks

See and learn about native Australian animals at Cairns Wildlife Dome on the roof of Reef Hotel Casino, Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, as well as aboriginal culture and rainforest at Rainforestation. Ask about our Locals’ Annual 4 Park Pass and School Holidays Kids Club. e: info@cairnswildlife.com.au p: 4085 5008 www.cairnswildlife.com.au

HOLIDAY FUN AT THE PIER

The Pier Shopping Centre - Activities for Kids Seven Stars Cupcakery: decorating Dec 12 - 14 Sumphun Kidzcraft: sandart Dec 15 & 16 and Jan 17 - 19 Wonky Duck Pottery: Xmas Craft December 19 & 20 Zoo to You - Marine touch tank January 9 -13 Pierpoint Road Cairns p: 4052 7749 www.thepier.com.au

DESTINATION DAINTREE

TAIT’S WONGABEL STABLES

Begin your family’s journey of discovery with a click.

Looking for a new recreation, while relaxing out in the bush? Try horse-riding!

A tropical wonderland on your doorstep

Enjoy learning to ride a horse on the Tablelands

Information, maps, accommodation, activities and itineraries direct from the locals living in the world’s oldest and most spectacular rainforest.

The safety and consideration for the animals along with meeting new people, all add to the enjoyment of your day. Suitable for the whole family from beginners to experienced riders.

www.destinationdaintree.com

RN148 Deep Creek Road Wongabel p: 4091 2070 www.wongabel.com.au

GO BOWLING

TINAROO LAKE RESORT

Bowl before 10am for the new early bird special, just $6pp (includes shoe hire). Popular family bowling deals start as low as $39. New meal & snack attack deals are great value combining bowling, drink and food from $15pp. No excuse these holidays not to bowl!

With magnificent views over Lake Tinaroo from all apartments, the resort offers the best resort style accommodation available on the Atherton Tablelands. Tinaroo Lake Resort has 1, 2 and 3 bathroom apartments - ideal for families or large groups. All apartments are self contained with a full kitchen and laundry facilities.

OPEN: 7 days a week from 9am till late. p: 4053 3497 www.gobowling.com.au

29 Palm Street Tinaroo p: 4095 8912 www.tinarooresort.com.au

BIG CAT GREEN ISLAND REEF CRUISES

COME AND CHEER!

Enjoy a 30% discount with your local ID when travelling to Green Island with Big Cat.

Get ready to join Awesome Cheerleading for 2012! Join the Kindy Cheer program for 2 to 5 year old boys and girls with a competition program starting from 5 yrs to adults. We can teach how to tumble, dance, all ability cheer, recreational cheer, tricking, acrobatics and aerobics.

Early Bird Special

Full & Half day trips to Green Island

This offer is available for direct bookings all year round.

Self Contained, 4.5 star, Apartments

Great fun for kids of any age

The Reef Fleet Terminal 1 Spence Street Cairns p: 4051 0444 www.greenisland.com.au

jane@giftedmemories.com.au e: info@awesomecheerleading.com www.giftedmemories.com.au p: 0402 225 630 www.awesomecheerleading.com

FISHERY FALLS HOLIDAY PARK

WILDLIFE HABITAT PORT DOUGLAS

A short drive from Cairns, the park is ideal for a family holiday or as a couples getaway.

These holidays join our Kids Club - for children

Relax and unwind with a variety of accommodation options.

experience with Koalas, Crocodiles, Kangaroos,

Relaxing, peaceful award winning park

Be pleasantly surprised! Bruce Highway Fishery Falls p: 4067 5283 www.fisheryfalls.com.au

CAIRNS RECREATION CENTRE

Make Friends, Be Active, Have fun! Children’s School Holiday Program 12th Dec till 20th Jan from 8am till 5pm. Half and full days available. A day full of skating, rockclimbing, recreational games and arts and crafts and more. Make Friends, have fun, be active. Behan Street Manunda p: 4053 5353 www.cairnsrecreationcentre.com.au

Australia’s leading wildlife experience

aged between 4 and 12 years old. Get an up close Cassowaries and various native birds. Port Douglas Road Port Douglas p: 4099 3235 www.wildlifehabitat.com.au

Get people looking at your business ADVERTISING rates start from as little as $55 per month. Contact Juanita on 0438 811 027 for more information.

www.parentingcompanion.com.au Summer 2011 Cairns Parenting Companion Directory

BROUGHT TO YOU BY FAR NORTH INSUR ANCE BROKERS

Seatosobne Ready? Tis the

Cyclone Emergency Kit Checklist Battery operated radio (with spare batteries) Torch (with spare batteries) Candles, lighter and waterproof matches First aid kit and manual Combination pocket knife Portable (gas) stove with fuel Cooking gear Water in sealed containers Medications and additional supplies Toiletry and sanitary supplies Change of clothes and strong shoes Non-perishable food like cans and tins

Summer time in the Far North is the time our region can experience tropical cyclones and torrential flooding. So itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really important you and the family are prepared. Remember to make a family PLAN for an emergency situation, PACK your emergency kit and LISTEN to the radio stations for more information.

(plus can opener & utensils) Special needs items for infants, the aged and people with disabilities Pet food, water and other animal needs Blankets & pillows Other camping equipment Cash money (atms may not be available) Personal documents (insurance certificates, photographs etc) Strong plastic bags (for clothing and valuables etc) Emergency phone numbers Old style phones that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require power

For formula fed babies also include A large cooking pot to sterilise equipment in boiling water A kettle Detergent Paper towels A feeding cup (which is easier to clean than a bottle) A metal knife and tongs A measuring container A storage container and sufficient clean water

SES - Flood Storm Emergency 132500

Holiday Safety & Security With Sargent Cary Coolican

Before you and the family head off for holidays it’s wise to take the necessary precautions to keep your home and it’s contents safe, in your absence.

Leave your house looking ‘lived in’: Cancel paper deliveries and have your mail held

Have you got adequate insurance cover? Have you got adequate insurance cover? Householders should undertake a detailed review of the replacement costs of their buildings including sheds and inground pool, and contents, both inside and outside the home.

Ask a neighbour to park their car in your driveway occasionally.

Things to check on your Home and Contents Insurance:

Consider using automatic timers on a light, TV or radio

Is your Building sum insured enough to rebuild the property?

to switch on at night-time. Have someone remove junk mail, empty bins, water plants

Is your Contents sum insured is enough to replace all contents - furniture, white goods, toys, kitchen appliances etc?

and mow the lawn.

What is your excess that applies to each section of the policy?

Ask a trusted friend or relative to house sit or at the very

Is there are any Sub Limits set on the policy?

least look after your property whilst you’re away.

Do you have or require flood cover?

Leave a few items on the clothes line eg: tea towel, socks.

Read your PDS (Product Disclosure Statement) so you understand how your policy will respond and what you need to do in the event of a claim event

or collected by your friend or neighbour.

Avoid leaving a message on the phone answer machine advising you are away. Turn down the ringer volume on the phone so it can’t be heard if it keeps ringing.

Understand the claims process and what you will be expected to do when you lodge a claim.

Lock Up

Remember the more information you can give an insurer

Lock all doors and windows in your house, garage & shed.

at the time of a loss the better they can understand your situation.

Lock the wheelie bin away once its been emptied. Lock away items of value, such as bikes, lawn mowers and garden implements such as ladders and tools. Ensure external doors and windows to your home are secured with quality locks.

Get insurance savvy NOW and survive this summer! For any insurance needs and questions please call Robert Brennan at Far North Insurance Brokers - working for you this cyclone season.

If you garage your vehicle at home, ensure the garage and vehicle are locked.

Other Tricks Disconnect the power to your electronic garage door. Leave a key with a trusted friend or relative in the event of an emergency. Keep your vehicle keys with you or HIDE YOUR CAR KEYS. Remove all valuables from your vehicle. AVOID leaving keys in security doors and windows, or in plain view on benches or hanging on hooks around the house. Join your local Neighbourhood Watch Group

Crimestoppers 1800 333 000 Visit www.nhwq.com.au to find out more.

Ph: 4051 8422

date

S AV E R S

11th December

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT 6.30pm to 8.30pm Fogarty Park, The Esplanade All your favourite carols sung by great local acts. Come along for a night of festivities and support the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Appeal.

January

CERVICAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH January is cervical cancer awareness month. Its a great time to brush up on cervical cancer prevention tips and learn what you can do to protect yourself, your friends, your daughters, your mothers, and all the women in your communities and in your social networks.

www.gain.org.au • www.accf.org.au

26th January

AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS Free Breakfast at Palm Cove from 7.30am Free BBQ at Gordonvale from 2pm Australia Awards and Citizenship Ceremony at Civic Centre 10.30am Australia Day at the Esplanade 12.00pm - 8.30pm

14th February

playdate in

Paradise Hosted by Cairns Parenting Companion and Paradise Palms Resort & Country Club

EVERY 2ND TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH

9.30 - 11.30AM Tuesday 13th DECEMBER Tuesday 10th JANUARY Tuesday 14th FEBRUARY $19 per adult (children FREE) includes morning tea, Adventure Playground entry and kids entertainment with Kids Moves - where fitness is FUN!

Bring your mothers group or meet some new people. Bookings essential phone: 0417 762 033 or email playdate@parentingcompanion.com.au www.parentingcompanion.com.au

VALENTINES DAYS “Love doesn’t make the world go round, love is what makes the ride worthwhile.” - Elizabeth Browning. “Love is composed of single soul inhabiting two bodies.” - Aristotle.

www.parentingcompanion.com.au/CALENDAR

see you there!

PARADISE PALMS RESORT • KEWARRA BEACH

y t i n u m m o C p ho tob oar d Tropical Nor th Fram

ing Gallery

“A Kiss is a rosy dot over the ‘i’ of loving.” Cyrano de Bergerac

WINNER

Olivia and Holly on Ho lly’s ver y first day at Community Kindy.

Congratulations to Sonya Raisbeck for her winning pic. She has won a Kisses & Kurls name canvas.

Keeley, so impressed with what she saw in the mirror - just had to kiss!

Lucas giving his Daddy a smooch.

Flynn giving dad a kiss aboard Ocean Spirit.

Cohdee and Scarlot (having a smooch.

Send us your Mum & Me pic and WIN! Phone: 4031 7866 www.tropicalnorthframing.com.au

Let Tropical North Framing Gallery customize your memories this Christmas.

For your chance to win an 8 x 12 Photo Frame - BYO favourite Pic for mounting - with thanks to Cairns Tropical North Framing Gallery, send us your favourite ‘Mum & Me’ pic to celebrate Mother’s Day in our next edition. Email your picture to win@parentingcompanion.com.au

Setting the trend in framing

ideas! Great Gift giving

Ph: 4031 7866 • 185 Aumuller St, Westcourt www.tropicalnorthframing.com.au Mention this ad to receive $20.00 off your custom framing, offer ends 30th January 2012

Summer 2011 Cairns Parenting Companion Directory

Childcare & Education continued

Childcare & Education

Westcourt Early Childhood Learning Centre

Candlenut Steiner School A unique educational experience from Kindy to Class 8, to families in Cairns, Kuranda and the Tablelands.

Where quality, fun & educational experiences begin. From 15months to 6years with before & afterschool care.

46 Boyles Road • Kuranda p: 4093 8809 www.candlenutsteinerschool.qld.edu.au

e: cairns@beginbright.com.au p: 0407 536 587 www.beginbright.com.au

C&K

Kids Development

C&K is Australia’s leading early childhood education and care provider.

Choi Kwang Do Cairns Central

e: info@candk.asn.au p: 1800 177 092 or 3856 5340 www.candk.asn.au

Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self Control &

BADMINTON || BASKETBALL || Martial CIRCUS || whole STATE Indomitable Spirit. arts for the family.OF THE ART GYMN 1/ 21SKILLS Donaldson St||• Manunda World of Learning Child Care ZUMBA || CIRCUS ROBOTICS AND JUNIOR TAE KWON D p: 0414 782 189 www.ckdcairns.com.au • Bayview Heights World of Learning GYMNASTICS - RECREATION CLASSES LEVEL 1- 4 BOYS & GIRL 3 Charlotte Cl, Woree p: 4054 6411 • Bentley Park World of Learning 2-4 Kangaroo St p: 4055 4457 www.worldoflearning.com.au

Cairns PCYC

Trinity Anglican School

91-97 MacNamara St • Manunda p: 4053 1532 www.cairnspcyc.org

TAS offers Kindergarten through to Year 12 at White Rock and Prep - Year 7 at Kewarra Beach.

A community club offering a wide variety of activities for all ages. Great after school care services and gym!

Kindermusik With Nicole

McNAMARA STREET - MANUNDA - PH: 4053 1532

Progress Rd White Rock • Poolwood Rd Kewarra Beach p: 4036 8111 www.tas.qld.edu.au

Music & movement developmentally appropriate classes for children 0 - 7 years, held in airconditioned studio.

Cairns Montessori

9 Donnelly Close • Brinsmead p: 0418 772 258 www.kmusikcairns.com

Accredited Kindergarten. From 15 months to school age. Allowing your children to develop at their own pace.

Little Snappers Swim School

9 Brose St • White Rock p: 4036 1055 www.cairnsmontessori.com.au

A boutique swim school featuring uniquely small class sizes. Opening October 2011. Now taking bookings.

Community Kids Child Care & Education

1 Cumberland Avenue • Smithfield p: 4038 1241 www.littlesnappers.com.au

• Brinsmead - 83 Loridan Drive. p: 4058 0800 • Freshwater - Cnr Kamerunga Rd & Lavis St p: 4055 1300 • Gordonvale - 7-11 Cairns Rd p: 4056 6777 • Kewarra Bch - 11-13 Cottesloe Dr p: 4057 8480 www.communitykids.com.au

Sheridan Meadows Early Learning Centre A locally owned 75 place, custom built early learning day care centre. Highly accredited and parent friendly. 2-6 Fretwell Rd • White Rock p: 4036 2777 www.childcarecairns.com

Specialising in counselling and therapy for children, adolescents and families. Home and school visits available.

THEY’LL LEarn THE ropEs, p: 4041 3504 www.birdwingtherapies.com.au so THEY don’T HavE To TAS Aquatic Centre Hang on To THEm Class for ages 6 months to adults. Classes to cater for all

TAS AQUATIC CENTRE LEARN TO SwIm

TAS AQUATIC CENTRE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Cairns Parenting Companion Directory

Birdwing Therapies

• • • • •

skill levels. Swim squads and fitness swimming groups. Held in a fun and friendly environment with experienced staff Class sizes that allow individualised instruction Progress Rd • White Rock For ages six months to adults with classes to cater for all skill levels All new TAS Aquatic Development programmes p: 4036 8195 www.tas.qld.edu.au Private ‘Learn to Swim’ classes available

Phone: 07 4036 8195 Email: aquatic@tas.qld.edu.au To FinD ouT more, SPeAk To one oF our FrienDLy STAFF www.tas.qld.edu.au Summer 2011 - School Holidays: Monday 12th December - Friday 20th January ToDAy by CALLing 4036 8195 or emAiL AQUATIC@TAS.QLd.EdU.AU Progress Road, White Rock.

Kids Development continued

Shopping for Kids

Begin Bright Cairns

Smithfield Shopping Centre

Early Learning and Tutoring for children aged 2 to 12 in a FUN, Happy, positive and encouraging environment!

Open every day with a great range of shops for the whole family including Kmart, Coles and Woolworths.

e: cairns@beginbright.com.au p: 0407 536 587 www.beginbright.com.au

Captain Cook Highway • Smithfield p: 4038 1006 www.smithfieldcentre.com.au

Cheeky Monkey Club Cairns Fun performance dance classes for boys and girls aged 2 and up plus hip hop classes from age 5 and up. sian@cheekymonkeyclub.com.au p: 4057 5412 www.cheekymonkeyclub.com.au

For Mum Cairns Beauty Academy Affordable beauty treatments by qualified therapists, nail technicians or with a practicing beauty student.

Essential Skills Swim School

97 Spence St • Cairns p: 4051 3882 www.beautyacademy.com.au

Boutique swim school offering small class sizes. Two specially designed heated pools , fully enclosed.

Cairns IT Works

32 Fishburn St • Bentley Park p: 4045 2782 www.swimskills.com.au

Amazing, naturally-based body wraps that tone & tighten trouble areas. See results in as little as 45 mins.

Trades & Services

cairnsitworks@hotmail.com p: 0435 888 985 www.jilliencairns.itworks.net

Williams Graham Carman Solicitors (WGC)

The Chef’s Toolbox

Providing quality legal services across a wide spectrum of the law to the FNQ region for over 35 years.

Inspiring Cooking in every home. Spend quality time with children whilst earning an income. Flexible hours.

1A Water St • Cairns City p: 4046 1111 www.wgc.com.au

sharon.mcwilliams@bigpond.com p: 0408 206 220 www.chefstoolbox.com/my/sharonmcwilliams

H&R Block (Cairns)

Reds Salon and Spa

Let us take the burden out of tax. Year-found support and service by a tax professional!

Reds offers complete hair, spa and beauty treatments in glamorous surroundings.

Mulgrave Rd and Smithfield p: 4051 6315 www.hrblockcairns.com.au

The Lakes Resort • 2 Greenslopes St • Edge Hill p: 4032 0445 www.redssalon.com.au

Cairns Complete Clean

Illumiboard Australia

A complete chemical-free clean of your home. Servicing Edmonton to the Northern Beaches.

It’s a night light, toy, message board and learning tool in one. Great present for the whole family!

info@cairnscompleteclean.com.au p: 0421 357 909 www.cairnscompleteclean.com.au

mark@illumiboardaustralia.com.au p: 0435 162 252 www.illumiboardshop.com.au

Naked Energy

Loot Homewares and Furniture Cairns

Go natural. For all your solar energy needs. Call us for fast and reliable service.

Stunning and original ranges of furniture, gifts and decorator pieces from countries across the globe.

p: 0417 893 379

Cairns Show Grounds Shopping Centre • Mulgrave Road p: 4051 1466 www.loot.com.au

www.nakedenergy.com.au

Summer 2011 Cairns Parenting Companion Directory

IPL u

Health Services

Photography and Keepsakes

Cairns Homeopathic Health

Family Features

UK trained homeopaths in Cairns. Natural health care from conception to old age. Home-visits available.

Affordable sculptures , perfect for displaying at home or office. Treasure forever - capture the moment!

Kewarra Beach Contact Christine or Emmlyn p: 0448 415 639 e: chhcairns@gmail.com

443 Russell Rd • Malanda p: 0488 101 622 www.familyfeaturesfnq.com

Amanda Gale Physiotherapy & Wellbeing Clinic

Shaz Spannenburg Digital Images

A superclinic for all of your physiotherapy, wellbeing & fitness needs for the whole family. Pregnancy fitness classes.

Specialising in beautiful pregnancy & baby images from her Redlynch studio. Accredited member of the AIPP.

17 Anderson Street • Cairns p: 4041 7717 www.amandagalephysio.com.au

Lot 32 The Rocks Rd • Redlynch p: 4039 0442 www.digitalimages.com.au

Cairns City Dental

Tropical North Framing Gallery

We’re the family dentist for all your dental needs. Our laser dentistry means no more needles or drills.

Tropical North Framing Gallery specialises in custom framing of your special memories. Since 1979.

69 McLeod Street • Cairns p: 4051 2500 www.wgc.com.au

185 Aumuller Street • Westcourt p: 4031 7866 www.tropicalnorthframing.com.au

Spectrum Counselling and Lifestyle Coach

Party Services

Need someone to talk to whether it be personal, a relationship, work related or the need to change a lifestyle.

Cairns Recreation Centre

Room 9 • Calanna Medical Centre p: 0418 772 615 www.spectrumlifestylecoach.com

Roller skating, also rock climbing, parties, functions, conventions, trade shows & more! Family fun & fitness.

Woree Family Medical Centre

44 Behan St • Manunda p: 4053 5353 www.cairnsrecreationcentre.com.au

Continuing to care for our Cairns community and providing a full GP service. All patients bulk billed.

Gift of the Gab Party Shop

600 Bruce Highway • Woree p: 4033 2525 reception@woreefmc.com.au

Your one stop for your party needs - Balloons, decorations, costumes, masks, helium hire & more.

Apple Tree Medical

35 Mt Milman Drive • Smithfield p: 4038 3939 www.giftofthegab.com.au

Offering a full range of GP services with male & female GP’s & a midwife for postnatal and ante-natal support.

Cake This

Draper St • Smithfield • Palm Cove p: 4038 2777 www.appetreemedical.com.au

Cairns Precision Dental Group

From baby shower to birthdays, from annual calendar events to corporate functions, celebrate your next special occasion with a cake of art from Cake This! p: 0457 397 978

cakethis@internode.on.net

We are the regional leaders in dental services for children. Offering complete care with state of the art facilities. 546 Mulgrave Rd • Woree p: 4054 2203 www.cairnsprecisiondental.com

Cairns Parenting Companion Directory Summer 2011 - School Holidays: Monday 12th December - Friday 20th January

Party Services continued

Kids Welcome

Muddy’s Cafe

Go Bowling Cairns

Offering a range of fairy bread, sandwiches, fruit and hot platters. Bring your balloons and we organise the rest!

Whether you’re an amateur or a pro, ten pin bowling is fun, all-weather entertainment for all the family.

174 The Esplanade • Cairns p: 4051 0388 www.muddyscafe.com

93 Pease Street • Manoora p: 4053 3497 www. gobowling.com.au

Brothers World Of Entertainment

Fuller Sports Club Edmonton

Kids disco parties for 3 to 12 year olds with crazy hosts and disco DJ’s. Held every Sunday from 3.30 to 6pm.

Your family club on the southside. Great kids meals, state-of-the-art supervised kids play area.

99 - 105 Anderson St • Manunda p: 40 531053 www.brotherscairns.com.au

24-26 Armstrong St • Edmonton p: 4045 4757 www.fullersports.com.au

Zoo To You

Dundee’s Restaurant on the Water Front

Bring birthdays to life with some of Australia’s cutest and scariest wildlife. We safely interact with your child.

Specialising in Australian beef, fresh seafood and pastas. Lunch & dinner, 7 days a week from 11.30am to late.

PO Box 335 • Redlynch p: 0415 696 439 www.zootooyou.com.au

Marlin Parade • Harbour Lights • Cairns Water Front p: 4051 0399 www.dundees.com.au

Paradise Palms Resort

Brothers World Of Entertainment

Children’s parties include food, drink and access to our playground & swimming pool. Prices from $18 per child.

Children’s dining deals and a fully supervised kids play room for 3 – 12 year-olds. Open daily.

Paradise Palms Drive • Kewarra Beach p:4059 9999 www.paradisepalms.com.au

99–105 Anderson St • Manunda p: 4053 1053 www.brotherscairns.com.au

Cheeky Monkey Club

Pregnancy, Childbirth & Post Natal

Designer-themed parties with lots of fun and imagination. Catering for children of all ages. sian@cheekymonkeyclub.com.au p: 4057 5412 www.cheekymonkeyclub.com.au

Bubs n Bumps by Nikki D Funky and unique maternity tops that will make you smile. Proudly show the expecting. Shop online at:

Gecko’s Indoor Play Centre

e: nikki@bubsnbumps.com.au p: 4059 2034 www.bubsnbumps.com.au

Themed rooms with hosts, plus great food & games. Open 7 days, perfect for a coffee while the kids play.

FNQ Birth Network

Smithfield Centre - northern carpark (next to Overflow) p: 40 381181 www.geckosplay.com.au

Your online directory for Pregnancy, birth and beyond. Support for all growing families in FNQ.

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

info@spiritofbirth.com.au www.fnqbirth.com

Offers a showcase of indigenous culture. Experience theatrical performances and interactive activities.

Babythingamijigs

Cairns Western Arterial Rd • Smithfield p: 4042 9922 www.tjapukai.com.au

Babythingamijigs offer a variety of top-quality, innovative products from around the world. Baby carriers for $65! cairns@babythingamajigs.com p: 4059 0334 www.babythingamijigs.com Summer 2011 Cairns Parenting Companion Directory

Quick, Convenient and Satisfying...

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Ilario & Glenda Pozzebon Cairns & Tablelands Ph: 0488 923 363

www.aussieskipbags.com.au

Muzz Buzz Drive-Thru Raintrees Shopping Centre Manunda

F amily F eatures

Baby and Children’s Hands & Feet Stone Sculptures

SCULPTURES FROM $85.00 SUE GRIFFIN

P: 4096 8180 M: 0488 101 622 familyfeatures@activ8.net.au Web: www.familyfeaturesfnq.com ®

Cairns Parenting Companion Directory Summer 2011

Why

Damien Knight - Manager of the Cairns Early Years Centre at Bentley Park College

WORDS

Early Childhood

Education is important

Parenting can be the most difficult job in the world and there are times when all parents could do with some help. Coupled with this, the first few years of a child’s life is the time when most brain development occurs so, the question remains, what can we all do to give our kids the best start in life? If there’s one thing parents can do for their children, it’s to get them into quality early childhood education programs and activities. Good quality playgroups and regular playtime at home that activates development can help prepare children to deal with adverse experiences later in life. Research from around the world continues to show that early education really does set kids up for life. With less than half of Queensland children enrolled in kindergarten, the Benevolent Society teamed up with Queensland Health and almost 20 other community organisations to develop a new Early Years Centre at Cairns. The whole idea behind the Cairns Early Years Centre is to provide support to get children ready for school by linking and providing continuity of support from a child’s baby health clinic visit to their first day at prep. This is the prime period for brain development, and families shouldn’t have to navigate those years alone.

By working with Queensland Health we can make sure that if a parent comes in for a baby health check we can link them in to a parenting program, parenting education, a playgroup or kindergarten. Kindergarten coordinator - why kindergarten is important. Philosophically kindergarten is important to provide children with an opportunity to learn through play. They can use their imagination and direct where they want to go with their play. They can explore with their friends and with a variety of materials. This program offers the children to find out what their passions are and our programs focus on giving them the opportunity to extend that passion. What’s different about the Cairns EYC Kindergarten? This kindergarten is different from other kindergartens because we have the attached Cairns Early Years Centre to support children and their families. Families can access all types of services in the one location and we, as staff, work collaboratively to help children get the best possible holistic program.

Child Health Nurses Natalie McLaren and Fiona Hiatt are child health nurses employed by Queensland Health working in partnership with family support and early education staff at the Cairns Early Years Centre. Their role is to provide child and family health services such as child health checks, parenting support and education programs to families at the Centre and satellite locations of Gordonvale and Edmonton (Sugarworld). This is an opportune time for families to be able to access a broad range of services which includes information about the growth and development needs of their children as well as learning and skill development. This aims to support parents in gaining confidence and competence in their parenting role.

If there’s one thing every parent can do for their child it’s… engage in play with their child and connect with them in play. This allows a strong bond to form between child and parent to help strong emotional development, which is the foundation for all other development.

Experts tell us that 90% of all brain development occurs by the age of five. If we don’t begin thinking about education in the early years, our children are at risk of falling behind by the time they start Kindergarten! Robert. L. Ehrlich

w w w. p a r e n t i n g c o m p a n i o n . c o m . a u Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

s e d i u G l r i G

& Scouts

For many years, Girl Guides and Scouts have been committed to enabling boys and girls to grow into confident, selfrespecting and responsible community members - a tradition that lives on.

GIRL GUIDES Rikki Bradley is a Gumnut Guide Leader for the Freshwater district and has been involved in guiding since she started as a Brownie at seven years of age. Her four girls are now also following in their mother’s steps. “What a lot of people may not realise is that you can now start Guiding from five years of age and the benefits don’t diminish with age. “ Guiding holds as many fun times and the opportunity of new adventurous activities for the Gumnuts as it does for the leaders.

PHOTO Rikki’s girls are Tyrah (14), Kiana (12), Janae (11) and Anisa (7).

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Guiding allows girls of all ages to find themselves and try many things that they otherwise may not have tried and it offers leaders the same opportunities. Where else can you be canoeing and abseiling one day and providing meaningful service to the community the next.

I have seen girls come to Guides and during their time change to not only like themselves, but feel alive, safe and surrounded by friends. Guiding can make a huge difference in many girls’ lives. The excitement you see on their faces as they try and achieve something they have just told you they can’t do. The pride they have in themselves as they grow and learn is an amazing experience to be part of.” Girl Guides is for girls five -17 years of age of all cultures, faiths and abilities. For more information or to become a member you can phone 1300 447 548 or visit www.girlguides.org.au

SCOUTS The Scout Association is one of Australia’s largest youth organisations. Its fundamental aim is to encourage and promote the physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual development of young people. The association achieves this aim by progressive self-education programs, which focus on initiative, teamwork and cooperation, and community service and spirit. The development of leadership skills is a significant part of the Scout program, which ultimately helps today’s youth become tomorrow’s leaders. In Queensland, more than 10,000 young people, both male and female aged between six - 26 years are actively involved in a wide range of Scouting activities.

SCOUTS ARE: CUBS

boys and girls from 6 to 8 years

JOEYS

boys and girls from 7 to 11 years

SCOUTS

boys and girls from 10 to 15 years

VENTURERS

boys and Girls from 14 to 18 years

ROVERS

from 17 to 26 years

ADULT LEADERS 18+ years Scouts meet once a week in the local area scout halls and the meetings are a great chance for everyone to see each other and participate in fun activities that improve the child’s physical and mental abilities.

WHAT CAN I DO IN SCOUTS? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Play exciting games Sing songs Play musical instruments Have sleepovers (1 night) and mob holidays (2 nights) Make inventions like real scientists Explore the outdoors Enjoy bush walks Learn water-safety skills Orienteer and learn to read maps and compasses Perform team activities and meet individual challenges Go camping with your friends Learn about first aid Play imaginative games Show your creativity in art and craft sessions Learn practical skills like knots and construction

To become a member you can email rc@farnorth.scoutsqld.com.au or visit www.farnorth.scoutsqld.com.au for more information.

www.communitykids.com.au Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

NO GAP payments for Children’s Fillings for MBF members*

Cairns Precision Dental Group offer complete children and family dental care including: Prevention Care Programs Comprehensive Treatment Planning General Family Dental Procedures The professional caring dentists at the Cairns Precision Dental Group have additional training in a number of areas

including specialist child dentistry. Your family will also have the benefit of the latest E4D technology for one visit crowns. We also offer cosmetic dentistry, a quicker way to a beautiful smile. Other professional services include: White fillings Same day crowns & veneers Bridge work

Root canals Teeth cleaning Teeth whitening Restoration Extractions Mouthguards Nitrous oxide (happy gas) Comprehensive examination Implant restoration Active maintenance

Cairns Precision Dental are regional leaders in dental services for children

Cairns Precision Dental Group “with you for life”

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Dr. Maurice Pietrobon Dr. Gary Taifalos Dr. Andy Ratter Dr Hasi Thambugala Dr David Oetjen Caroline Pym Sean Dawes Jacquelene Carter

4054 2203 546-550 Mulgrave Road Woree Cairns QLD 4870 f. 4033 0102 | e. contactus@cairnsprecisiondental.com www.cairnsprecisiondental.com

Empire Worldwide 0724

*With a specialised dental therapist. *Cairns Precision Dental Group is an mbf membercare provider

Back to School

Here’s some cool things CPC have found for ‘Back to School’.

Office Works Cairns can fill your school list! For all your back to school stationery, visit Officeworks. They can pick and pack your school list at no additional charge. Please allow 48 hours for this service. 1-15 Waters Street Cairns or phone 4052 9400.

Mummys’ Little Helpers

Cool Lunchboxes! Fridge-to-go is the 8 hour cooler bag so you can take healthy, fresh and bacteria-free food with you to the beach, BBQ and perfect for school lunches. $27.95 + postage. Check them out today at www.fridge-to-go.net.au

The Cheeki Bottles are stainless steel and BPA free. With a 350ml capacity and a no-spill twist lid they’ll keep the water fresher and cooler for longer. RRP $14.95 each. www.mummyslittlehelpers.com.au

Includes: 24 Name (large), 12 Dots, 50 Mini/Pencil, 12 Shoe overlays, 12 Iron-on (standard), 12 Iron-on Dots, 1 Bag Tag.

Name Labels Pack Over 18 designs available $39.95 FREE Post www.labelkingdom.com.au

Cool school bag!

G$G\ \

WIN

TO WIN AN A4 ILLUMIBOARD thanks to Illumiboard Australia, email in feedback, add a comment on our blog or place a listing (free) on our

Boxy Designs unique backpack has 4 separate compartments including an insulated side opening for your lunchbox. RRP $49.95 www.boxydesigns.com.au

garage sale pag. Head to www.parentingcomopanion.com.au

Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Photo Jacinta Tunney on holiday with her family.

Jacinda Tunney at work with the YMCA

In 2005 my family and I relocated to

growth and respect for one another,

visits to the YMCA-managed centres in

Cairns from Brisbane. The climate and

whether as juniors progressing through

Cairns, which represented a substantial

the relaxed lifestyle of Cairns convinced

their chosen sport or by generally

increase in community usage and the

us to establish a new life in Far North

increasing their fitness levels. Attracting

quality of organised program activity.

Queensland. I had a young family and, as I

and meeting the New Zealand Olympic

Our involvement in aquatic activities and

was new to the area, I began volunteering

swim team at Woree Aquatic Centre and

education is strongly supported by YMCA

at the YMCA-managed Marlin Coast

members of the Queensland Firebirds

Australia. The national body is the largest

Recreation Centre with the toddler

at Marlin Coast Recreation Centre were

aquatic centre manager in Australia and

playgroup at the centre.

great highlights.

provides excellent assistance to regional

In January 2007 I was appointed as the

Throughout Australia the YMCA

YMCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in all forms of community sport, recreational well-being and lifestyle

bookkeeper for the YMCA of Cairns and

branches work together from a base

was quickly promoted to Centre Manager

of humanitarian values to provide

and then to Chief Executive Officer in

opportunities for all people to grow in

2008. With a background in corporate

body, mind and spirit. Our core obligations

variety of activities including fitness and

management the change to working

include commitment to Aboriginal and

well-being programs, gymnastics, netball,

within a not-for-profit organisation was

Torres Strait Islander people, volunteers,

basketball, taekwondo, karate, zumba,

challenging and rewarding. In 2010

social inclusion and the environment.

aqua-aerobics, squad swimming training

I was awarded the IC Howard YMCA

The YMCA of Cairns was established

Staff Scholarship by YMCA Australia.

in May 1999 when it was appointed as

This annual scholarship awarded by

the contracted manager of the Marlin

activities. The YMCA of Cairns offers a wide

and AquaSafe Aquatic Educationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s learn to swim and water safety programs. Our aquatic programs are serviced by

YMCA Australia, recognises professional

Coast Recreation Centre at Smithfield

highly qualified national and international

excellence and commitment to the YMCA

for the then Cairns City Council. Today,

coaches and instructors.

movement and the local community

the YMCA of Cairns has extended its

which is served by the YMCA.

contractual arrangements with the now

participation and contribution to the

Cairns Regional Council. The YMCA

Cairns community and I look forward to

moments during my time with the YMCA.

commenced management of Woree

playing a role in the exciting years ahead.

Some of my favourite experiences include

Aquatic Centre, Gordonvale Aquatic

Why not drop into your local YMCA and

working with disadvantaged youth and

Centre and Babinda Swimming Pool

see what we can offer you and what you

having the opportunity to observe their

in 2009. In 2010 we attracted 210,000

might offer to the community.

There have been many rewarding

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

The YMCA aims to broaden its

party & play

IPL underarm and bikini just $60

3 Themed Party Rooms • Coffee Shop • FREE wi-fi Relax while the kids play safely. Free coffee with entrance fee. See our website for regular educational activities for the kids & special events for the parents. Available after hours.

www.geckosplay.com.au

Smithfield Centre (next to Overflow) • Ph: 4038 1181

Are you getting enough back from your health fund?

Compare Queensland Country Health Fund today - great value for money health cover just got better www.qldcountryhealth.com.au

1800 813 415

Queensland Country Health Fund Ltd ABN 18 085 048 237

Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

ADVERTORIAL

C & K helping kids learn through play Now is the best time to enrol your child in a C&K kindergarten program, with Health Care Card fee reductions for eligible age children of up to $1,179 per year. As one of Australia’s leading communitybased early childhood education and care provider, C&K has offered the highest standard of services for more than one million children since 1907. C&K is a notfor-profit organisation where profits are reinvested to benefit children and their community. C&K offers kindergarten, childcare, out of school hours care and family day care services whereby under the guidance and care of our teaching professionals C&K children are enabled to: • Make friends and learn how to interact with other children. • Explore and express their creativity • Connect with natural environments and spaces.

• Build confidence and find their unique identity. • Connect with their world through play and other activities.

care and education. All C&K educators

Through the approved C&K Building waterfalls teaching and learning guideline, the early childhood community shares your child’s investigations, passions and discoveries.

ongoing learning journey.

C&K Kindergartens offer the approved C&K Building waterfalls teaching and learning guideline. This guideline promotes the importance of the early years in laying the foundation for preparing your child’s transition to school.

site, providing a smooth transition for

Each C&K Kindergarten director and team of early childhood teaching professionals are dedicated to your child’s

$321million election commitment to

record how each child learns, interacts and participates, so that parents and families can share and contribute to their child’s As Queensland’s oldest and largest early childhood organisation, C&K will open 65 new kindergartens ready for first term 2012. Each service is co-located on a state school children into a schooling environment and convenient pick-ups for parents with other children already in school. The new C&K community kindergartens are part of the Qld Government’s establish up to 240 extra kindergarten services across the state by 2014.

Learn through play with C&K in 2012

C&K is Australia’s leading early childhood education and care provider. Independent research* has shown children who participate in a C&K kindergarten program do better at school. C&K services available across Queensland: • Kindergarten – 65 opening in 2012 • Childcare Centres • Family Day Care All C&K kindergarten programs offer the approved C&K Building waterfalls teaching and learning guideline. Now is the best time to enrol your child in a C&K kindergarten program with Health Care Card fee reductions for eligible age children of up to $1,179 per year. Call 1300 324 359 to enrol your child today. Find your nearest | careers | C&K college www.candk.asn.au *Preparing for School Report, QUT 2004

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

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Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

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GP, Dr Liz Chappel from Appletree Medical with a quick summary of those over the counter remedies for common childhood ailments. Homeopathic alternatives are written by Christine Borcovsky of Cairns Homeopathic Health.

s e i d e m e Rescue R s d i k g n ti a c i d e m

Over the counter medications (OTC’s) are sold without the need for a prescription from a doctor. Some of the more popular for the treatment of minor ailments in children include paracetemol, ibuprofen, teething gels such as Bonjela, decongestants such as Dimetap and antihistamines such as Phenergan. All of these medications have side effects and should be used with care.

It is always important to remember other methods of soothing a child’s symptoms such as tepid sponging a febrile child, saline nasal sprays for blocked noses, lemon and honey drinks for cold symptoms and chilled teething rings. All of these are virtually side-effect free.

Whilst OTC medications have their place in treating minor ailments in children, they should be used with care. Just because you do not need a prescription for them does not mean that they are safe to use freely and liberally.

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

For Pain and Fever

Paracetemol was discovered more than 100 years ago and is approved for use in children over one month old. If used appropriately it is a very useful medication, however it is essential that attention to the correct dosage is given. This is worked out by a child’s weight (not their age). Overdose (doses greater than 150mg/kg) can lead to serious consequences as liver failure and can potentially be fatal. Homeopathic Belladonna helps reduce a temperature (that is not a serious 40 degree and above temperature). It’s much the same as Panadol but more gentle and natural. You can administer a 6c every half hour for four doses, if necessary.

Inflammation

Teething

Ibuprofen is the most widely used antiinflammatory medication and has now been approved for use in children from the age of three months. It is also useful to treat pain and fever.

Bonjela is a product aimed at soothing the pain of teething in babies (as well as easing the pain of mouth ulcers and dental sores in adults). In Australia, Bonjela contains the product choline salicylate. Salicylates are believed to be a potential cause of Reyes syndrome in children. Therefore it is important that if you are using Bonjela as a teething gel you apply only a small amount and space the applications apart by three hours or more.

Again the dosage is calculated by a child’s weight , not their age. The side effect profile includes increased gastrointestinal bleeding, potential kidney problems, and in two percent of asthmatic children, it can trigger an asthma attack. Homeopathic Belladonna is also very useful for inflammation.

Congested or Phlegmy Cough Some forms of decongestants (like Dimetap) have been around for more than 50 years. However the few paediatric studies performed have failed to show any beneficial effects for children with upper respiratory tract infections and there is certainly very little published data to support the use of OTC decongestants for children. As they have side effects that include over-stimulation grumpiness, and insomnia and less commonly headaches, upset stomach and dizziness, they are best used with caution. It is important to note that if your child has a history of seizures, high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disease or is taking medications for any of these conditions, avoid using decongestants Homeopathic There are a combination of remedies that can be tried but you really need to make a visit to your homeopath, as each child is an individual and will need a specific remedy to suit them. Along with the cough you will have other symptoms that need to be taken into account. Some children get an earache with a cough, some a sore throat.

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Homeopathic Pulsatilla will help children who become whiney from teething problems. For the more high stressed, screaming child Chamomilla might do the trick. For teeth that seem to take forever to appear, try Schuesslers Tissue Salts Calc Phos. It encourages the body to grow stronger teeth and bones.

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Allergies and Travel Sickness Phenergan is a brand name for the antihistamine promethazine. It is useful for the treatment in children over the age of two for allergies and travel sickness. Some parents use it to help their children sleep, however research shows that antihistamines have almost no effect on improving children’s sleep patterns. If you are experiencing difficulties with your child’s sleep it is a good idea to discuss this with your GP rather than medicate your child. Side effects of promethazine include tummy upsets, dizziness, restlessness, blurred vision, fast heart rate, change in appetite, blood disorders and heart conduction disorders. Homeopathic For travel sickness try Cocculus. It’s great for on the boat or in the car. Borax 30c is great for a baby who cries as soon as a plane starts descending. They will only need one pill, which will last for several weeks. For allergies, when the nose and eyes are running, a dose of Allium Cepa is the answer. For sore itchy eyes Euphrasia is a good choice.

Winner announced via facebook on 1st February, 2012 and will be featured in the Cairns Parenting Companion Autumn 2012 edition.

13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) is your health advice hotline, available 24 hours a day. Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

AroundTown

CPC’s wrap up on what’s new and available to you!

MATERNITY TOPS WORTH GETTING PREGNANT FOR!

PERSONALISED POTTERY

Nikki from Bubs n Bumps has some new quirky designed maternity tops that include original artwork of babies printed on the front bump. Get ready to be noticed and proudly show the world you are expecting! Check out her new on-line store and see the cute designs and styles available at www.bubsnbumps.com.au Great gift idea. Bubs n Bumps offer FREE gift-wrapping.

CAPTA’S 4 PARK PASS - IT’S BACK!

LOCAL CARER SHOWING AUSTRALIA HOW IT’S DONE

Here’s a wonderful, personalised gift idea from Wonky Duck Pottery – where you can paint your own pottery. Put your baby hand or footprint onto a mug or

Locals can once again take advantage of the savings with Capta’s Annual 4 park pass. Pay just $110 for a family of four (if you are renewing a family pass - only $100) for a 12 month unlimited pass to the Rainforestation Nature Park, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Port Douglas Wild Life Habitat and the Cairns Rainforest Dome. Offer is strictly available only until the 31st of January. For more details visit www.cairnswildlife.com.au

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Congratulations to Family Day Care

plate and keep it forever, or paint a gift for

Cairns and educator, Genny Frazer.

the grandparents for Christmas? Great for

Genny was recently chosen to represent

birthday parties too. The kids paint their

the family day care sector in Australia

pottery, plus the birthday child receives

for quality documentation of the Early

a personalised plate with all the guests’

Years Learning Framework, ‘Belonging

names and thumbprints as a memento.

Being and Becoming’. Well done Genny!

Visit www.wonkyduck.com.au

WICKED WEDNESDAY’S – NEW FAMILY FUN AT MUDDY’S! Muddy’s Café on the Esplanade has started their Wicked Wednesday’s from 5pm! Enjoy a relaxed family dinner with family dinner packs from $33 (including drinks), free face painting by Nikki the Clown; plus free junior ice cream and colouring competition with every kids meal purchased. So take a night off from cooking and enjoy our beautiful esplanade.

Santa Photos Saturday

26 November

10.00am – 2.00pm

Tuesday

13 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Sunday

27 November

10.00am – 2.00pm

Wednesday 14 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Saturday

3 December

10.00am – 2.00pm

Thursday

15 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Sunday

4 December

10.00am – 2.00pm

Friday

16 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Monday

5 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Saturday

17 December

10.00am – 3.00pm

Tuesday

6 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Sunday

18 December

10.00am – 3.00pm

Wednesday

7 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Monday

19 December

10.00am – 3.00pm

Thursday

8 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Tuesday

20 December

10.00am – 3.00pm

Friday

9 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Wednesday 21 December

10.00am – 3.00pm

Saturday

10 December

10.00am – 2.00pm

Thursday

22 December

10.00am – 3.00pm

Sunday

11 December

10.00am – 2.00pm

Friday

23 December

10.00am – 3.00pm

Monday

12 December

11.00am – 4.00pm

Saturday

24 December

10.00am – 3.00pm

There is professional photography available plus every visiting child will receive a Christmas Bauble paint set!

COLES I KMART I WOOLWORTHS I SMITHFIELD TAVERN I DAN MURPHY’S Cnr Captain Cook & Kennedy Highways, Smithfield QLD 07 4038 1006 www.smithfieldcentre.com.au

Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

p a w S e Hom Finding your home away from home

For more than 50 years people all over the world have been taking advantage of the many benefits house-swapping has to offer. Usually house-swapping entails exchanging a house, unit, holiday house or unit, or even something unique like a houseboat or motor-home. Houseswappers come from all walks of life; seniors, families, couples and singles savvy people who see the real advantages and benefits that house-swapping offers.

People house-swap for many reasons, apart from the obvious financial gain. You can cook your meals in home comfort and enjoy the excitement of a new and different location in relaxation and privacy. You also have the peace of mind that someone is taking care of your property back home. It is also extremely familyfriendly as you can swap with other families and take advantage of their baby or child facilities while having plenty of

Photos The Coxon familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday snaps.

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

space to play. Many people have made lifelong friendships with their house-swappers.

Some house-swap businesses provide both domestic and international houseswaps so you can swap for a weekend or whole year! Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s some Australian-based house-swap sites to check out: www.aussiehouseswap.com.au www.familyholidayhomeswap.com www.houseswapholidays.com.au

Top tips for house-swapping 1 Allow yourself plenty of time to find the right house. 2 Be prepared to not get the first house or a perfect house. 3 Be flexible with your dates, if you can. 4 Leave your house-swappers a manual with lots of tips and information about your house and area. 5 Arrange to leave milk, bread etc, it is so nice to arrive to find these little things on hand. 6 Always leave a card or gift of thanks and appreciation. 7 Always leave the house as clean or cleaner than you found it. 8 Always replace anything you use in the house such as food, cleaning products and toilet paper. 9 Always leave the car with the same amount of fuel you received it with, and arrange with your house-swappers as to how they would like the beds left ie; stripped, washed, remade or not.

A local family’s homeswap experience Mandy & Chris Coxon from Mossman Gorge My family have swapped houses with other families twice so far and are doing it again shortly. There are so many great reasons as to why we love it. Affordability Because we’re saving on accommodation and car hire we can splurge on other travel expenses. For example, on our house-swap to Hobart we took a helicopter flight over Cradle Mountain and the ghost tour at Port Arthur. On our trip to Brunswick Heads the girls took surfing lessons and Chris and I brought some local artwork to take home as a memory of our holiday. We probably wouldn’t have done these things without saving with house-swapping.

PERFORMANCE DANCE CLASSES Boys & Girls 2 years & up Hip Hop classes 5 years & up Fun with dancing, singing, costumes, props & performances City & Northern Beaches Also do Birthday Parties & Kids Club for Functions

OL R N E 12 0 2 FOR W! NO Phone: 40 575 412 sian@cheekymonkeyclub.com.au www.cheekymonkeyclub.com.au

Convenience By staying in someone’s home you don’t need to pack all the things you might normally pack. This year our houseswappers are coming with very small children, so we will have the car seats ready for their arrival at the airport and a cot all ready and waiting at home. Having these larger items taken care of makes traveling so much easier with small children. Comforts Of Home One of the joys of house-swapping is that the house you are staying in is stocked with everything you need. Things like children’s books and toys, bicycles and skateboards, rip sticks and fishing rods, beach towels, a picnic basket, folding chairs and hammocks - things you would never consider packing for a holiday. Pets If you are really lucky some house-swaps have pets for you to look after or even allow you to bring your own.

Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

WORDS

Stephen Chong - www.stephenchong.com.au

g n i t t i n K s ’ a n Nana state of non-doing my

I recently heard a radio interview where

When she was sitting in her chair

The task allows the mind to disengage

the interviewee was a nuclear physicist,

knitting, I could see that she was in some

and quieten down, so that the body can

a mother of twins and a competitive tri-

kind of other space, like a trance or a

relish in and rejuvenate itself through a

athlete (try fitting all that into one day)

meditation. Her eyes would be focussed

direct connection with the soul.

and she explained how she loved getting

on a seemingly faraway place. She was

on her bike and riding. She would go

somehow detached; yet she was always

you need to do, it is really important

riding along lengthy stretches of road,

well aware of the many goings-on around

that you ‘take time out for you’. To relax

mile after mile, compelled by her passion

her and, believe me, with five children and

and reconnect with the things that are

to train for forthcoming competitions. But

umpteen grandchildren, there was always

important and that you are passionate

something going on around her.

about. Just like my grandmother with her

her most amazing comment was that she loved riding because, as she said, ‘… that’s when I don’t think of anything, I just ride.’ Do you ever get time, amongst the plethora of tasks that you have to do with a young family, partner and work demands, to do something you are truly passionate about? Do you recall the feelings you have when you are in the middle of ‘something’ special and how that was a time when your mind was completely at peace? Do you remember how great that feeling was? My late grandmother, bless her soul,

As I reflect on my grandmother’s

Amongst the multitude of things that

knitting and the 35-year-old tri-athlete

knitting prowess, I realise now that what

you can relax into a state

she was practising, in her own way, was

of non-doing.

a state of absolute relaxation. For my grandmother, knitting was her way of relaxing. Not thinking about all of the chores that had to be done, or any of the many other issues and challenges in her life. This is a state of non-doing where you

An excerpt from The Music of the Soul: A pathway to a rich and fulfilling life by Stephen Chong.

are able to relax and let go of thoughts, anxieties and dilemmas. It is a place where your thoughts become suspended and the mind and spirit can reconnect with

used to sit in her comfortable chair in the

each other, untroubled by the incessant

living room of our house in Melbourne

babble and clamour usually associated

with her knitting. She would sit and knit

with the mind’s functioning. Like my

sweaters for her grandchildren and bed

grandmother doing her knitting, you are

quilts for her children. It was amazing

still able to carry out a task, but become

to see her turn these innocuous balls of

competent to perform it automatically. In

fluff into the warmth of a sweater that

other words, you are so adept at the task

would take away the chill of those cold

that it becomes rhythmic and requires no

Melbourne winters.

conscious thought to perform.

book giveaway For your chance to win a copy of Music of the Soul tell us what you do for your ‘me time’. Email your entry to: win@parentingcompanion.com.au Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Saving money with

sustainable living

Simon Thompson from Manunda explains how his family adapted their lifestyle to a more sustainable one In September 2008 we bought an old

whenever possible, recycling what we

low-set Queenslander in Cairns. The place

can, watering in the evening to avoid

needed a lot of work and our renovation

evaporation and riding bikes when

budget was low. To save money we did

practical. This culture costs nothing and

most of the work ourselves. We put a

doesn’t reduce quality of life, but saves

lot of thought into our renovations to

you and the environment.

incorporate as many sustainable ideas that we could. People often think they cannot afford to

The Queensland Government’s Climate Smart Living tips for households.

be sustainable as the big solar array or hot

Replace five regular incandescent lights

water system on the roof is beyond their

with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs).

budget. We found that some of the least

You will save around 450 kg of CO2 each

expensive changes like painting the roof

year and around $70 a year on your

white and riding bikes were best for the

electricity bill.

environment and our back pocket. Having

Buy GreenPower It is one of the best

our own veggie patch also helped us save nearly $1200 a year. Within the last three years we removed old air-conditioners, installed energy saving light bulbs, new ceiling fans and security screens to catch cross breezes, insulated the roof and painted it white. After making these cheaper efficiency changes we purchased a solar hot water system and a 3kW solar power system. We believe that being sustainable is

ways to make your home carbon neutral and significantly reduces your carbon footprint. Contact your energy retailer to find out how you can buy GreenPower. Wash your clothes in cold water using cold water detergents. Ninety percent of the energy used by washing machines is in water heating. Hang one load of washing on the line each week rather than putting it in the dryer.

not just about eco stuff, it’s also about

Turn off TVs, DVD players, stereos, game

lifestyle. We have developed a family

consoles and other equipment at the wall.

culture of turning off lights and appliances

Appliances in standby mode continue to

when leaving the room, air-drying clothes

use electricity. A mobile phone charger

will be responsible for 35 to 70 kg of CO2 if left plugged in when not charging. Buy fresh fruit and vegetables in season from your local farmers’ market. Greenhouse gases are emitted when energy is used to raise livestock and grow plants, and when foods are transported, processed and packaged. Purchase items with the least amount of packaging and recycle everything you can. Set your air-conditioner between 24 and 28 degrees. Also clean the filter—a clogged filter can use five percent more energy than a clean one. Reduce your pool pump running time by just one hour. You could save more than $80 a year and half a tonne in greenhouse gas emissions. Become energy efficient in your home with a ClimateSmart Home Service. For $50, a qualified electrician will visit your home, conduct a water and energy audit, provide energy advice and install a wireless energy monitor. Visit www. climatesmarthome.com to register. Substitute car journeys with public transport, cycling, walking or car-pooling when you can. Transport is one of Queensland’s biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.

Naked Energy Free Energy Audits and Advice Solar PV Panel Systems Solar Hot Water and Heat Pumps

0417 89 33 79 info@nakedenergy.com.au www.nakedenergy.com.au

Stand Alone Solar Products Top Quality Products ~ Great Prices Fast and Reliable Service Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Photo Sandra instructing one of her students, Chloe Archer.

Nutrition

ch eck

Dietician Gina Trakman from Healthkicks profiles a local mum’s health regime.

THE FACTS Name: Sandra Kuhn Age: 39 Weight: 97.7 kg Height: 171cm Occupation: Owner, Centrestage Dance Studio, Yorkeys Knob

Sandra is constantly on the go; she

Sandra’s daily ‘V’ supplies 120 calories

wakes early to fit in a gym workout,

(the same as two small apples) but

before working on her dance school

contains no nutrients or fibre.

business. Her workday officially begins

Sandra rarely eats red meat, an

at 4pm and she spends the next four

important source of iron (needed to

hours teaching dance class. Having

transport oxygen around the body, for

enough energy to stay awake and

energy-producing reactions) and zinc

alert throughout her demanding day

(an important component of various

is Sandra’s top priority. She would also

enzymes, including those involved in

like to drop a dress size.

immune function).

DIETICIAN SAYS

Despite including vegies at most

Sandra’s fruit intake is good and she

meals, Sandra is not getting the

includes vegetables at each main

recommended five serves per day.

meal. Sandra always eats breakfast,

Eating more vegetables will help

a mid-morning meal and an early

Sandra achieve the RDI for fibre,

afternoon snack.

potassium, magnesium, folate and

WHAT’S WRONG?

Vitamin A.

Sandra’s afternoon teaching schedule

RECOMMENDATIONS

means that she has a late dinner and

Swap cheddar cheese for low-fat

often goes six hours without eating.

white ricotta or cottage cheese = less

Eating regularly ensures that blood

saturated fat and more calcium.

A Typical Day’s Eating

glucose levels remain stable, which

Breakfast: Watermelon and strawberries or apple pastry

prevents extreme hunger that usually

Mid-day meal: Kebab with salad and cheese or chicken wrap with salad, avocado and cheese, V energy drink

Sandra is not meeting the minimum

Swap bacon for lean red meat = less

recommended serves for dairy, an

saturated fat, salt and more iron, zinc.

Snack: Banana cake/homemade muffin/soya-crisps

for bone strength).

Dinner: Chicken salad with croutons, avocado and pumpkin or small bowl pesto and bacon pasta, orange juice.

(muffins, cake, pastry, soya crisps) every

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

allows energy to be maintained and leads to overeating.

important source of calcium (needed Sandra is consuming treat foods day. These foods are high in energy,

Swap kebab for wholegrain wrap with tinned salmon = More fibre, magnesium, calcium and omega-3 fats

Swap treat foods for cut-up vegies, wholegrain crackers, fruit or nuts = less saturated fat, salt, sugar and more fibre and nutrients.

fat and sugar but provide little of the

Sandra should also include a snack

vitamins and minerals we need and

in the late-afternoon in between

should be limited.

dance classes.

We build strong people, strong families, strong communities. AT MARLIN COAST YMCA: FITNESS

Zumba Fitness Challenge Box Fit Boot Camp Aerobic Pump Aerobics Pilates & Yoga Body Conditioning Pryme Movers 50+ Circuit & more

SPORT

Net Set Go Netball Juniors Netball Ladies Netball Mixed Gymnastics (Recreation) Kinda Gym Fit Kids

Learn to Swim AQUASAFE

AQUATIC EDUCATION & LEARN TO SWIM

VACATION CARE

Woree • Gordonvale • Babinda

Monday - Friday 7.45am - 5.45pm

Enquire now at to enrol your child into our AquaSafe program. AquaSafe is YMCA’s unique aquatic education and learn to swim program for children from 6 months to adults. Access for all abilities. Phone YMCA

CRECHE 9am Monday - Friday

Gordonvale 4056 1353 • Woree 4054 6964 • Babinda 4067 1211

YMCA Marlin Coast Recreation Centre Leisure Park Road, Smithfield p: 4057 7507 • e: cairns@ymca.org.au

www.cairns.ymca.org.au

Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Q & A ask our experts

If you have a parenting question, we have experts on-hand to answer it. Email your question to feedback@parentingcompanion. com.au

Dr Gary Taifalos

Keran Thomas

DR GARY TAIFALOS Principal Dentist at Cairns Precision Dental Group QUESTION: At what age should I take my baby for their first dentist visit? ANSWER: Babies should be taken to their first dental check-up when they are around 2 years of age. This allows the dentist to check that the teeth are developing correctly. The dentist can also provide guidance on the appropriate care for your baby’s teeth and how to ease problems such as teething. A check-up is usually warranted at least once a year. Frequent visits not only accustom the child to the dental setting but more importantly allows early education for a healthy lifestyle and good oral health into adulthood.

We offer a comprehensive range of social work services by our team of highly qualified professional practitioners.

• Counselling for Children, Families, Parents and Carers • Children's Group Work

- Problem Solving - Social Skills - Calmer Children

• Women’s Life Balance - Self Esteem - Self Care - Relaxation Skills • Parent Workshops

- Tricky Kids! The Strategies that Actually Help Parents! Call us at 07 4041 3504 birdwingtherapies@bigpond.com www.birdwingtherapies.com.au 70

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Furthermore, getting children into the habit of visiting the dentist from an early age will help prevent them from being apprehensive of dental visits later in life.

KERAN THOMAS Therapist for Birdwing Therapies QUESTION: My 7 year old is really shy and withdrawn. He won’t play with the neighbourhood children unless they come and invite him, even then he seems reluctant. Should I be worried, what can I do? ANSWER: Children who appear shy and withdrawn at 7 years of age may not have developed two key components of the Early Childhood (3-6 years) developmental stage - group play and self esteem. Things you can do to help your child develop friendships, confidence and promote a healthy sense of self include: • Having family and friends over for meals and special events or inviting a child and parent over to play & share afternoon tea. • Role model safety at play, by gathering up the footy or frisbee and head down to the park to play and meet other children. • Finding out if your areas has any neighbourhood get together or street parties during the year – attend as a family. • Your loving support and care will help your son develop the Middle Childhood (6-12 years) development tasks of friendship, skills, learning and team play.

Small Business

WORDS Kim

Kelly -Advance Cairns

ewards R G Having a small business is appealing; lower overheads, less travel time and greater flexibility with balancing work and family. But to make it a success there are some basic fundamentals to consider.

Can you make money? Having a good idea is one thing, making money from your idea is another!

Before you commit time and money developing the business, make sure your idea is feasible, both financially and in terms of your personal commitment. Start by calculating your business income and expenses and determine if the amount remaining is sufficient to meet your personal financial objectives. These numbers should drive your business plan and provide you with the formula to achieve these numbers. Sales and marketing Every business needs to consider how they will promote and market their product/service to ensure it will stand out and succeed. Start with a basic SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) to help with the process. Remember you need to identify what makes your product or service unique and use this as the focal point in your communication. Finance and loans Good financial management skills are vital to building a successful business, so determine your business budget and stick to it. If additional financial support is required, consider the amount required and where you will obtain it from. Research the type of loans available and be prepared to provide a business plan, financial information (historical and projected) as well as any other documentation you feel may be relevant for your business. You may also be able to apply for a grant to assist with your business. To search through a wide range of current grants, refer to the Governments Grant Finder website http://www.business.gov.au/GrantFinder/ GrantFinder.aspx

Legal & Insurance Issues Tempting as it can be to rush into your business idea, there are a few things you need to do before you commit yourself. It’s important to consider your business structure, licensing issues, taxation requirements and insurance to ensure you don’t encounter any potential problems.

Strategic Issues Ongoing business planning will ensure that your product/service remains feasible. Take time to review and refine your business idea and identify opportunities for continuous improvement and success. Local Support With all of the information available online for small business it can become very confusing. Why not consider the services of a local business advisor from the Advance Cairns Business Enterprise Centre (ACBEC). The ACBEC offers low cost Advisory Services to support small business. All initial consultations are provided free of charge and for those businesses seeking additional support, the ACBEC provides a range of low cost business programs including: • Start me Up: for those looking to start a new business. • Boost your Business: for existing businesses looking for a strategy to improve their business. • Go for Growth: for those looking to grow or expand their existing business • Financial Solutions: for those seeking assistance obtaining finance for their business. • Marketing Solutions: for businesses that need advice preparing a sales and marketing plan.

For local business support visit www.advancecairnsbec.com.au or phone 4080 2913 Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Be sure to keep an eye out for these and many other great stall holders at our upcoming markets!

Sammy K Designs

ENTERTAINMENT

ily!!

for the WHOLE Fam Go 4 Games

The kids will love this stall. Puzzles, brain teasers and games for them to try. Craft and gift ideas. Something for all ages from toddlers through to adults.

Bringing handmade ruffle nappy pants and embellished singlets to North Qld. All made with quality materials for your little one.

www.facebook.com/sammykdesigns

A Work of Heart

de Adorable and affordable handma cloth dolls. Design your own one of a kind custom order doll, or choose from the delightful ready made creations. All dolls $25 plus shipping. Pick up welcome.

www.go4games.com.au

www.madeit.com.au/AWorkOfHeart

es Seventh Heaven Candl from

de Fragrant pillar candles ma which is an natural, safe â&#x20AC;&#x153;Palm Waxâ&#x20AC;? renewable environmentally friendly er candles source. Different from oth on the market as they n release their fragrance eve g! nin bur when not

www.seventhheavencandles.co

m.au

Kisses and Kurls

ity uch of original l Add a little to ia ec sp a to design and creative e ar ns ig es D . place or room and based on handpainted e theme and ar a concept or e, m na a h it w personalised or letter for word, phrase ial. someone spec kurls

www.facebook

.com/kissesand

Which Watches? A style to suit every wr

ist! We also do other great accessories for all the family. Prices starting from on ly $5. Ph: 0400 046 263

wreanna71@hotmai

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/familymarkets

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

l.com

at the Pier

month y r e v e f o Y A D N U S 2nd 8.30AM - 1.30PM

Sunday 11th DECEMBER Sunday 8th JANUARY Sunday 12th FEBRUARY Missmarci Unique handmade button jewellery & re-purposed denim bags. All pieces are original and one off. Buttons are sourced from all over the world, some are vintage. Jewellery from $10. Bags from $40.

www.facebook.com/Missmarcipage • p: 0413 137 208

ToyMaster

here ecialist right Playmobil® Sp years, 35 more than in Cairns! For g in ir s been insp Playmobil® ha n eate their ow children to cr agination im r ei d let th adventures an r range at soar. Check ou

www.toymaste

r.com.au

see you there!

ver 40 Now with od still stalls an GROWING!!

ned Airconditio g Easy parkin , new, Hand-made goods & preloved

hing Find somet e truly uniqu

Goodies for ly all the fami all day! FREE Entry r the first

fo Marketbags the doors 100 through

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE A STALLHOLDER PLEASE CALL BECParenting 0417 Companion 762 03373 Summer 2011/12 Cairns

Blogging When starting a blog is it important to work out why you are blogging. Is it to position yourself as an expert in your industry, to inform and educate the public, or is it a bit of fun? The tone and look of your blog needs to reflect its purpose. The look of your blog is the first thing they see and tells people more about the content than the content. For example, a financial blog’s image would be confusing if it included cute clipart, balloon fonts and glitter effects. Conversely, a baby blog’s image would be confusing if the design included a lot of black where readers would expect to see pastels.

WORDS

Tori Sudgen - Social Media Outsourcing

a personal diary, a daily pulpit, a collaborative space, a political soapbox, a breaking-news outlet, your own private thoughts, memos to the world: your blog is whatever you want it to be.

There are free hosting sites such as Wordpress.com and Blogger.com to name just two. The pros are that they are easy to use and are free. The cons are you do not have ultimate control over your blog, you are limited to their themes and you can’t upload plugins. A plugin is a set of software components that add specific abilities to your blog (eg. back up your blog, add a shopping cart, check for spam). You can use Wordpress.org to create a blog and host it yourself. The pros are the ability to upload themes and plugins and you have complete control. The cons are you need a web host, it requires a little technical knowledge and you are responsible for handling backups, upgrades and spam. Even if you already have a website you can add a blog using Wordpress. A blog is made up of posts and pages. Your ‘About Me’ page is essential to establish who you are as a blogger and to help your readers understand what your blog is about. Include information about your experience, links to your other websites or blogs and your contact information. Include a photo as well; people like to see the person behind the words. Blog posts appear in reverse chronological order, so your more recent

posts are seen first by your visitors. The post title is basically a headline and needs to entice your readers to read more. It is also used by the search engines, so ensure that it is relevant to the content in the post. In this digital age people’s attention span is short. Posts of around 250 to 600 words is a good measure. If you have more to say consider splitting into Part 1 and Part 2. This will also give your readers a reason to come back.

blogging must do’s! Keep paragraph lengths to two or three sentences. Reading on a computer screen can be difficult for some people. Using the shorter paragraphs with lots of white space is the preferred method. Use images in your posts. They provide more than just colour and a bit of visual relief from heavy text pages. They are another way to drive traffic to your blog. Allow your readers to leave comments on your posts. This gives them the opportunity to join the conversation. Respond to their comments to show you value them and to further build the two-way conversation. Find five other blogs in your field of interest to follow. Leave pertinent comments on their blogs with a link back to yours. This will encourage their readers to click through to your blog. And finally, be yourself. Don’t fake it, force it, or trick it into happening. You can tell when a blogger is faking it. So can your readers. Tori Sugden www.socialmediaoutsourcing.com.au Ph 0438 552 210

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Moments of Gratitude!!!

...meet a local blogger My name is Alicia Douch. I am a 31-yearold mother of two beautiful children, Kiara who is five, and Noah, who is two. I am married to Jamie. I work part time in Jamie’s family business, which is The Cheesecake Shop. Jamie is the manager, so he is my boss (at work only!). I have lived in Cairns my whole life and love photography, though I still have a long way to go with it. I also feel blessed to live in this beautiful part of the world. My Facebook page is called, Alicia’s 365 Moments of Gratitude Project, where I take a photograph of something I am grateful for each day. I came across the idea by accident when googling something else on the internet. I found a page where a lady did the same thing and it totally changed her way of thinking. I was at a bit of a stagnant point in my life, feeling a bit negative, and thought that this would be a wonderful project to undertake myself. What made you want to start a blog? In all honesty, I didn’t set out to make a blog. At first I was going to undertake the project on my own personal Facebook page, but I was worried that all the photos would be a bit much for my personal friends, and wanted to give them a choice of whether they wanted to join my Gratitude page or not. Never did I expect other people to be interested in my project, and have been completely amazed by the wonderful feedback and support for the page.

What’s the most important thing you hope to achieve with the blog? I set out with this blog to hopefully change my way of thinking towards having a more positive outlook on life and since then my way of thinking has changed dramatically. I enjoy going back on my previous posts and reminding myself of all the wonderful things in my life. So far, I have achieved exactly what I set out to do. My only wish is that when the year is up, I still continue to be grateful for the little things in life, and focus more on the positive things rather then the negative. A few people have sent me messages saying that they too have changed their way of thinking, and have taken a good hard look at the beautiful things in their life. I love hearing stories like that - we are all just humans, with normal feelings, and just want to be the best person we can be. What advice would you give those who would like to start a blog? Come up with a plan, and an idea or concept of what you want to blog about. Try not to think about the people who will view it, or what other people will like - you will never win trying to impress other people, just blog about something close to your heart, something that makes you tick, something you will enjoy talking about. Be aware that you may get more then you expected, sometimes baring your soul to strangers can be draining, sometimes it can be a wonderful release. The most important thing to remember is that you are not out to please everyone else, and try not to take everyone’s opinions to heart … you will never make everyone happy.

What are some blogs you like following? There are so many great ones out there! I am personal friends with Sassy’s Sanity and Getting Sorted - Each Day As It Comes, but am constantly finding more and more great blogs each and every day. If I listed them all, we could be here forever!

Alicia’s top blogs Childhood 101 www.childhood101.com Blogger, Christie Burnett has regular contributors who also provide plenty of information and inspiration to parents. Planning with Kids: www.planningwithkids.com This Melbourne mother of 5 likes to help her fans get organized. Check out the terrific recipe site with free menu planner. Sleepless Nights www.somedaywewillsleep.com A Tasmanian blogger who suffers from Ehlers Danlos Syndrome as do her two children. Picklebums www.picklebums.com This is a mixed bag of everything to do with raising children. One Crafty Mumma www.melissagoodsell.typepad.com Crafts galore! Retro Mummy www.retromummy.blogspot.com This mum from Sydney likes to knit, sew, crochet, cook and sometimes renovate. Babyology www.babyology.com.au This site encourages parents to compare what brands and products they use. Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Dear Dave What do you think is an acceptable age to start giving children pocket money? How much should they get and for what jobs? Sheridan Dolan of Kids Moves

Hi Sheridan, Very good question. Teaching our kids the value of the Aussie dollar is almost as important as teaching them how to back a trailer. Or tap a keg. Pocket money is not something that

inflationary pressures, performance reviews, bonuses and, have we learnt nothing from Kyrgyzstan, bribes. ‘For what jobs’ is the most important clause in this contract so when negotiating I’d incorporate the words ‘including but not limited to’. That way you can knock yourself out with a list of jobs that’s longer than a hospital waiting list and your kids will be busier than a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs. Dave

every family subscribes to but I think it’s

Dear Dave

a great way for kids to learn about being

How do I stop my five year old boy from

rewarded for a job well done as well as saving, spending, borrowing and at

consistently bedwetting? Cath at Cairns Juice Distributors

some point, the harsh lesson of blowing their hard earned on something that

Hey Cath,

fails to live up to expectations and is

Looking at your day gig the first thing

ultimately pointless, like a Rabbitohs

I’d be doing is a company stocktake. The

membership.

second thing I’d be doing is looking for

Some experts advocate the four to

Dave DEAR

warner

Parenting advice dished out, Dave style!

boy’s bedroom. Mr five-year-old might

out coin to our kiddies but if they’re

just be tucking into the company profits

capable of stacking a beer fridge and

well and truly after you’ve tucked him

using a bottle opener at say two or

into bed. Just saying. Without naming

three then I don’t see any harm in

names so as to protect his privacy, my

starting a bit earlier. Just because

younger brother, Anthony Craig Warner,

nappies don’t have pockets doesn’t

had a similar issue when we were

mean they don’t deserve pocket money.

young. An incentification and positive

Every family is it’s own little

reinforcement cocktail worked for him.

sovereign state with it’s own little

He received a reward at the end of each

economy. Some families are like the

week if there were no accidents. If you

oil rich United Arab Emirates while

employ this method and you have other

others more resemble the not really

kids just be careful, otherwise you may

rich in anything except corruption and

end up with a houseful of bedwetters

goats milk Kyrgyzstan. So how much

all lining up to collect their Flintstones

moolah you mete out to the munchkins

Family Felt Set or Han Solo action figure

depends on the family GDP. I’d start

at the end of every second week. Mum

small and leave room in the future for

saw a problem. I saw an opportunity.

102.7 Weekdays from ONE STATION ALL THE 5.30am and reheated ROCK LEGENDS from 9am Saturday 76

Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

a stash of empty juice bottles in your

seven year age bracket to start doling

PREPARE NOW FOR THE CYCLONE SEASON The cyclone season has started and it’s time to prepare an emergency plan, pack an emergency kit and stay informed. These simple preparations can help you avoid the last minute supermarket frenzy when a cyclone warning is declared. Remember water, batteries, canned food and masking tape can be gone from stores in a few short hours. Up-to-date disaster information is provided on Council’s website (www.cairns.qld.gov.au/disaster) – including announcements and road closure notices, media messages, storm surge mapping. For updates sign up and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Don’t get caught out this cyclone season: Prepare an emergency plan with all members of your household Check your family emergency kit is ready and nearby Make arrangements for your pets in an emergency Those people living in storm surge or flood areas should arrange a place to stay with friends in ‘higher places’, in case they are advised to evacuate Prepare your property by trimming trees and tidying the garden Check your insurance policies are current and provide adequate cover. Cairns Regional Council P: 4044 3044 (Cairns) | 4099 9444 (Mossman) | 1800 070 444 (STD Callers) 119-145 Spence Street, Cairns | E: council@cairns.qld.gov.au | W: www.cairns.qld.gov.au

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www.cns.catholic.edu.au Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

g n i v a h e Mum B Give me back my size 10 jeans!

badly

Definitely NOT to be taken seriously!

Let’s face it - some of us were simply not made to be mothers. Unfortunately a majority of the procreating world doesn’t share the same view and appears to think that if you’ve got a uterus and a set of funbags then all bets are off.

pantry collecting dust. But I don’t care.

a little bit but it’s better than two hours

I was not born to be a mother. I thought I was because that’s what the “Where Do Babies Come From?” book told me, but let’s face facts; some women were meant to be mothers, some weren’t.

for softball or half a day for cricket.

Sounds a little bitchy? You bet. I’m premenstrual, without wine, and a bloke just had the balls (not for much longer) to tell me that I didn’t appear to have lost much weight since the birth of my second child.

And I wouldn’t be caught dead at kindy. All that glue and those toilet-training smells. I know others have a tolerance for it, but I don’t. Sure there is an instant pleasure in being gifted a macaroni necklace but seriously, macaroni … it’s a food item for Pete’s sake … not a fashion accessory. Plus, how am I supposed to scream at my kids to eat their dinner and to think of the starving kids in Africa if they’re making jewellery out of pasta?

mothering. Next time my eldest asks if he

And I have to admit that my lack of tolerance has interfered with the sports I let my kids play. A 40-minute game of basketball is okay. It interrupts Saturday

I may not be a natural mother but I think

I’m sorry but I know I’m not the same shape that I was before one of your fellow men decided that I was the appropriate vessel to germinate his spawn. I’m sorry that I don’t fit into my size ten jeans. I’m sorry that I buy tinned baby food and my sexy, expensive Kitchen-Aid that can whip, dice and puree all the right nutrients into a healthy meal for a baby is sitting in the

Half a bleeding day, and half the time they’re standing by themselves with no interaction with anyone but a blade of grass. Come to think of it, that’s good can play cricket I’ll point out that I can’t possibly bear him to be away from me for four hours, alone, standing in a paddock, alone. Then I’ll whip him off to the shops for a hot chocolate and spend an hour in Just Jeans where I’ll precariously try to squeeze into a pair of size ten jeans, knowing that he’ll never pass judgment on how big my post-pregnancy butt still is. there’s something in all of us that hangs out for our kids to love us for exactly who we are, baked-cakes or not.

Follow our online blog at www.parentingcompanion.com.au

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

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Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

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! e s u o h e h t t u o ab None of the following is representative of the views of Cairns Parenting Companion and for reasons of personal safety the author wishes to remain anonymous. Yep! He’s a bloke and he’s confused.

This should be the ‘International Year of the Confused Dad’. And don’t try and make it all tidy and ‘PC’ (politically correct) by paraphrasing it into the ‘Worldwide Year of the Discombobulated Primary Male Care-giver’. This is about the modern day complications experienced by Dads raising children within an environment of; a) an overly non-offensive, fence-sitting, namby-pamby, PC-ness, b) the out-of-control, litigation happy, ‘Land of the Lawyers’ free-for-all that pollutes our society, and c) the sad state of over-regulated social, community and family interactions. Admittedly some restrictions (regulations/ obligations/compulsions) are justified and genuinely protect our precious little people, but compared to my own upbringing it’s probably fair to say the raising of children today is a minefield of ‘don’ts and don’ts’. I know I wasn’t unusual as a child but my days often used to consist of a dawn to dusk foray up the local creek, kneedeep in bacteria-enriched mud, catching turtles, tadpoles and probably tinea. We’d exit the creek at a paddock where they kept the rodeo bulls and I’d make some good small change betting the ‘new’ kids I could run right in front of the beasts and live (truth is they were as timid as mice unless they had some nutter on their backs). Then, with a pocket full of coins and a large stick in hand, I’d lead the gang in a good old ‘snake tease’ (I won’t go into

detail but I certainly don’t recommend trying this yourself). We also had a ball skidding downhill, barefooted in slimy, moss-encrusted gutters, and we loved a good session of ‘motorboats’. That’s when you’d shake up a bee in your closed fist and throw them into a puddle. They’d buzz around like... well... a motorboat. And before you call the RSPCA we’d always rescue the bees afterwards and we never got stung… much! Which brings me to my own ‘discombobulated primary care-giving’. Initially I was a carefree care-giver. Not neglectful but, having so many healthy, adventurous boys amongst our first five children, I found it easy to allow them a fair bit of freedom with a good dash of responsibility. However, for the final two in our brood of seven I have been compelled by confusion and forces greater than me to succumb to the previously mentioned a) b) c); in other words PC-ness, not getting sued and obeying all the rules. So for kids six and seven most outside adventures, sport and unsupervised social activity became complicated from the very day their mum and I were roasted for trying to take a photo of number six’s first day at pre-school. Later on the home front, after a brief analysis of the content of computer games, we decided that the electronic world was another dark and dirty place best avoided. So, for that matter was TV, the internet in general and Facebook in particular.

Welcome to the ‘Cotton-wool Club’. In our house … population two! And that’s how things would have continued if it wasn’t for the revolution instigated by the older (now young adult) kids. You see, with that original bunch we’d created a series of free-thinking individuals who knew the importance of taking risks and taking responsibility. Sure it also involved plenty of mistakes as well as some time in the Vice-principal’s office, the local police station and in the casualty ward, but this first batch of ours had their beliefs, dreams and opinions, and they stuck to them. As parents we were compelled by the older siblings to give six and seven a lot more freedom and so far it’s worked. What was indirectly pointed out to us by our own offspring was that we’d forgotten that we were nurturing the generation that will eventually be making all the choices for us. It’s the generation that will shape society, politics and the nursing home rules. It’s a generation that needs to have the sense of adventure and confidence to be able to go forward with a big leap when small, careful steps won’t do. I may still be confused but in my winter years I’d still like to be able to wander up the local creek with my aging mates and grandkids, getting knee deep in ‘poisonous’ mud and catching tadpoles. I truly believe that when I feel the need to bust out of ‘Shady Pines Retirement Facility’ and run amok, it’ll be my own kids who’ll let me get away. Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

Confession mum’s

BOX

fess up and get it off your chest I confess... that last week while I

sometimes like I’m being used because

was at the shops my daughter put

otherwise she would have to pay for

her fingers into a chocolate bar at the

a sitter. The kids all get on well, but

check-out counter and I didn’t pay for

sometimes I just don’t need the added

it. Normally I’m very honest but I’m sick

responsibility. Anonymous

of supermarkets putting chocolates and

I confess... that my two-year old-son

lollies at ‘child-grabbing’ level, which I’m

is a juice drinker. He refuses to drink

sure they do so that parents will cave into

anything but juice. If I give him some

their child’s demands without making a

water the day will pass by with him

scene. Short of putting my three-year-

getting only through a quarter of the

old in a straight-jacket I don’t know how

bottle. Now my son drinks a lot and when

they expect us to fully stop them from

he doesn’t finish one bottle in one day

touching the goods which are less than

- that worries me. To keep him drinking

an arm’s length away. Anonymous

when there is no juice, I would give

I confess... I confess that I give a fruit

him soft drink (two thirds Fanta or Coke

and vegetable puree to my two years,

mixed with one third of water). This is his

eight-month-old, since she is a fussy

drink for the whole day! Anonymous

eater. Anonymous

I confess... I am addicted to Facebook.

I confess... I sometimes lie to get out of looking after my friend’s kids. It feels

some ground rules for FB. I find myself anxious if I can’t check it at least three or four times a day - it’s almost always open on my computer and I find myself walking past it just for a ‘quick fix’. This wouldn’t be so bad if it didn’t mean I find myself trying to find things to entertain my daughter so I can jump on quickly to see what new posts have come up. Anonymous

I read the article in the last edition and thought - I really need to set myself

I confess... I read a confession from a parent saying it was not okay to share germs while waiting to see the Doctor. Honestly! Why would a parent take a perfectly healthy baby to sit in a congested and germ zoned doctor’s surgery? I confess that some parents are just plain idiots and I do not mind having children share germs with my child. Bad mother? I seriously doubt it...aren’t we being a little too precious? Anonymous

Email your anonymous confessions to confessions@parentingcompanion.com.au or Submit your blog at www.parentingcompanion.com.au

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12

Summer 2011/12 Cairns Parenting Companion

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Cairns Parenting Companion Summer 2011/12