On The Coast Families – Dec 21/Jan22

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coast ISSUE 115 DECEMBER 21/JANUARY 22

Reframing the overtired & overstimulated

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FAMILIES

Holiday

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You survived 2021...Now What?

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Welcome

Inside

Wow, 2021! What a year! As we decorated our home last week with lights and tinsel (yes a little early I know), I have memories of celebrating Christmas last year like it was yesterday, completely oblivious to the whirlwind that was on course for our world.

6 You survived 2021…Now

I never would have imagined that I’d be sitting here writing this Welcome note almost 12 months later, slightly worn out and a little bewildered though extremely grateful for the adventure that has been, 2021.

13 Feel Fa-La-La-La Fabulous

What? 5 Steps To Making Your New Year Great!

8 Christmas ‘Must Reads’ This Christmas

The last few months of lock down have made an impact, in both positive and negative ways. We took over On The Coast Publications on June 1st and three weeks later lock down hit. Although four months of heaviness, uncertainty and a few tears are not the ideal start to a business, we are immensely proud and humbled to still be here sharing the On The Coast legacy with you, the beautiful community on the Central Coast.

With the end of the year in sight and the buzz of Santa echoing throughout our home, we would like to thank you, from the bottom of our heart for taking this journey with us so far and we look forward to sharing a bigger and even brighter 2022 with you.

From our Family to yours, wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and joyous New Year. May the end of 2021 find you surrounded by those you treasure most and your heart be filled with love.

Take care and enjoy the summer Coasties! xxx

14 Holiday Vibes 18 Matters of life & love 22 The real rites of passage for mothers

24 Reframing the overtired & overstimulated baby

Tanzie & Luke 30 Digestive Stool Analysis

Art Director/Editor Tanzie Carpenter tanzie@onthecoastpublications.com.au Production Luke Carpenter luke@onthecoastpublications.com.au Publisher Tanzie Carpenter / p 0414 611 851 Luke Carpenter / p 0405 449 339 trading as On the Coast Publications ABN 52 212 212 482 PO Box 3251, Bateau Bay NSW 2261

Printing Spotpress Pty Ltd – 02 9549 1111 Cover image Cloud Nine Photography cloudninephotography.net.au

The inside information

32 I’m pregnant – What do I do next?

34 Salicylate sensitivity

Imagery ingimage.com and freepik.com Contributors Catherine Schasser, Jessica Anscombe, Jordi Woods, Sam Woods, Nikki Smith, Sarah Tolmie, Alita Blanchard, Dr Alison Mooney, Diana Arundell, Dr Georgia Page, Clare Marcengelo onthecoastpublications.com.au

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Check out past articles at onthecoastfamilies.com.au @onthecoastfamilies DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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You survived 2021…now what?

5 steps to making your New Year great!

BY CATHERINE SCHASSER

Ok mums. Let’s take a second to shout out your strength, resilience and commitment.

You did it – you’ve made it through two of the most trying years of your life. You deserve a bow...and a bottle of bubbly I’d say!

No parks, school, play dates, lunches with nan and pop and no idea when any of it was going to end! Fears of illness reigned supreme, families and friends were kept a part and identities were challenged as the idea of ‘work roles’ changed.

You’ve been required to adapt your physical routines and increase your emotional capacity. And 24 hours a day, 7 days a week you’ve been with the same little and big people. Unexpectedly. That’s a social experiment in itself.

But you’ve done it. While some mums feel wounded from this experience others feel empowered. Either way, you’re here and deserve a huge high five, hug, massage, 3 course dinner, night away, shower in peace or 3 days of isolation…pardon the pun! I mean 3 days of not answering to, looking after or entertaining others, as opposed to physically distancing. You’ve done great, big ticks to you.

“It always seems impossible until it’s done” Nelson Mandela As you breathe in the new ‘normal’ of reconnection and daily routines, take these lessons learned and use them to propel your life enthusiastically and passionately toward your dreams.

Look what you’ve lived through this year. You now know you can do anything so here’s where you start to

replace your fears and frustrations with feeling great. I’m sure you could do with a little more of that, couldn’t you? And what about your children? You want to do everything to show them the best of you while teaching them how to live a happy life…no matter what comes their way. If we’ve learned anything from the last two years, it’s adaptability matters.

“Be willing to change, Because life won’t stay the same” YOU SURVIVED 2021 AND 2020 – BUT NOW WHAT? Now you hunker down, taking a few minutes here and there, walks in nature, chats with a professional (or your closest friends) and get excited for the year ahead. Here’s your 5 step roadmap to starting 2022 with enthusiasm, purpose and a ‘can do’ mindset.

ACKNOWLEDGE Acknowledging your achievements and your feelings is necessary before you jump into a New Year. Your raw and real emotions don’t disappear because you ignore them.

You’ve done hard things, acknowledge it.

BELIEVE Believing next year can be wonderful will increase your energy levels. Similarly, believing this year had it’s benefits is just as useful. Be deliberate in the thoughts you want to believe because this simple mind hack is a game changer for loving your life.

CHOOSE It’s easier said than done, but you get to choose what you make 2021 mean. Just like writing a novel, story or play, you can retell the narrative of the past through a lens that feels best to you. Do this by focussing on the good parts, like your commitment, resilience, connection, finances, stillness, creativity or resourcefulness.

DESIGN This is the fun part. Let go of your rules and responsibilities for a little

Catherine Schasser is a qualified Life Coach, NLP practitioner and Early Childhood Teacher, who combines her passion, empathy and experience to empower others. With her friend Kristine, Catherine has created an online membership for women, plus two exceeding early learning centres with one being named NSW Best Small Private Regional Service. Catherine leads the empowerment of mothers and educators in maintaining their mindset to create a life they dream of.

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while and get designing a year so heart– led, so inspiring, so captivating that it pulls you toward the direction of your dreams. What’s the point of this blessed human life if we’re not living it with purpose and passion?

“

You’ve done great – big ticks to you.

EVALUATE Change doesn’t happen in one moment, rather in the layering of choice after choice. Are the foods you’re choosing making you feel energised or sluggish? Does staying up late make you more or less patient with your children? Does multi tasking benefit your relationships or not? Your evaluation of what’s working in your days and what’s not are the signposts leading toward your inspired year or away from it. Take back control, be intentional and choose wisely.

Your children and you deserve to have a magical New Year – get out there and make it happen! Walk in nature, sign up for the course or the coaching, drink more water, write the song, smile more.

It’s always your choice.

Stay wonderful, stay you, but most importantly, stay focussed on your dreams.

Sincerely, Catherine

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DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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s a m t s Chri ‘Must Reads’

BY JESSICA ANSCOMBE

Give the gift of food and travel, wonder and magic and love and adventure.

Here, a list of recent releases to inspire and entertain.

Fiction

Set in Paris in 1939 and the present– day French Riviera this moving novel,

by Natasha Lester, will be perfect for historical–fiction lovers. The Riviera House $32.99, Hachette Australia, www.hachette.com.au Peter “The Plum” Lum is an ex–NRL player who’s given doctor’s orders to change his lifestyle, and fast.

Plum, by actor, director and writer Brendan Cowell, is a powerful story exploring modern masculinity. $32.99, HarperCollins, www.harpercollins.com.au For the thrill seekers! I Shot the Devil, by Ruth McIver, is a suspense–filled story of murder and home truths. $32.99, Hachette Australia, www.hachette.com.au In Cloud Cuckoo Land, Anthony Doerr shares the narratives of characters from three timelines, Constantinople in 1453, Idaho in 2020 and an unknown date in the future, all linked by an ancient text, to weave a story of human connection. $32.99, HarperCollins, www.harpercollins.com.au Once Burnt Twice Shy, by Karly Lane, is a rural drama, with a nod to the Rural Fire Service. Samantha is house sitting on her parents’ farm when bushfires break out.

The novel is about rebuilding, second chances, discovering old flames and the meaning of home. $29.99, Allen & Unwin, www.allenandunwin.com

Non-Fiction

For the festive season and beyond, Matt Preston’s World of Flavour is filled with favourites with a twist and includes the history behind the dishes for interesting stories to entertain guests. $39.99, Penguin Random House, www.penguin.com.au Our lives are signposted by major events.

In Twelve Summers, actor and writer Adam Zwar recalls his most memorable moments, woven into the backdrop of Australia’s unforgettable cricket matches. $32.99, Hachette Australia, www.hachette.com.au Astronomy enthusiasts will love learning about stars and planets in our galaxy and beyond…in The Universe, by Andrew Cohen, with a foreword by Professor Brian Cox. $39.99, HarperCollins, www.harpercollins.com.au She’s been part of our media landscape for years, now read Lisa Wilkinson’s autobiography It Wasn’t Meant to be Like This, and discover what life has been like behind the camera for one of Australia’s most well–known personalities. $45, HarperCollins, www.harpercollins.com.au Know someone starting a veggie patch?

In Homegrown, River Cottage host Paul West shares the tips they’ll need for planting, growing and maintaining their kitchen garden all year round. $44.99, Pan Macmillan Australia, www.panmacmillan.com.au

Jessica Anscombe is a librarian and writer living on the Central Coast. She has a passion for literature and writes fiction and non–fiction. Jessica was the winner of the Wyong Writers’ 2021 Short Story Competition and her winning story is to be published in an upcoming anthology. She has also been longlisted for the Furious Fiction prize and you can read her short stories here www.jessicaanscombe.com/category/fiction/ short–stories/ and follow her on instagram at www.instagram. com/jessicaanscombe/

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Children’s Books

Celebrate with everyone’s favourite heelers and read along with all the poolside action in Bluey: Christmas Swim $16.99, Penguin Random House, www.penguin.com.au Marcie is having a tough Christmas until she’s given a magic wishing stone. With the help of a black cat named George, she sees that perhaps dreams really can come true. Marcie Gill and the Caravan Park Cat $19.99, Penguin Random House, www.penguin.com.au A gentle and inspiring story, The Curiosities, by Zana Fraillon, demonstrates diversity and the comfort and acceptance that we are not all the same. $26.99, Hachette Australia, www.hachette.com.au A story of growing up on a farm with horses and animals, surrounded by beautiful bush. The Road to Goonong, by David Cox. $15.99, Allen & Unwin, www.allenandunwin.com In The Toys’ Christmas, favourite toys journey to see Santa to tell him what their human besties would like to find under the tree. $24.99, Allen & Unwin, www.allenandunwin.com

DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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for little ones e s i d a r Pa

THE BEACH EARLY LEARNING CENTRE

The Beach Early Learning Centres promote the value of childhood at a time when children are curious, capable learners and co–constructors in their life journey. Curiosity in young children is essential because it helps them understand the world around them and supports their learning.

We understand there is no set list of things to teach young children. Living is learning and children learn through living. All young children have their own abilities and interests. We celebrate growth not perfection at the Beach Early Learning Centres.

When we encourage children to be curious they become more observant and think about things and try to figure them out.

We see it as absolutely vital in fostering curiosity and encouraging enquiring minds so that children will ask questions and extend their learning. We believe in making everyday routines into extraordinary rituals. You will see this at our centres when we’re chopping fruit on a cutting board, setting a table or picking flowers for the vase – all of these are core to caring and learning.

We know that early childhood is a unique stage of life so we are committed to being every child’s champion and enable this by providing a safe, fun and friendly environment where children can foster and maintain friendships with

each other and educators. Throughout the day educators are there as the secure base for all children. They advocate for the children and provide a safe haven that protects, comforts and acknowledges their feelings.

At the Beach Early Learning Centres we honour every relationship. Every interaction we build with children and families influence every single aspect of our centres, from our rostering, right down to what we display and document in our learning spaces.

To us, the relationships we have with our children and families are an important part of our culture and are embedded across our centres, which is why we are able to base every decision we make on how they will affect children.

At the Beach Early Learning Centres we believe that Early childhood is a time for children to discover who they are and how they fit into the world. Essential to this, is the freedom to explore, to be a child and to be protected. In our centres you will see Educators providing a safe, secure and child interest driven environment. Educators joining in, watching and encouraging play throughout the day.

The early years in a child’s life are instrumental so we aim to provide

“

Living is learning and children learn through living children with opportunities to thrive and wholly participate in learning through guidance, relationships and resources, maximising every child’s potential.

These are visible at our centres through an inclusive and respectful framework and open learning environments that promote social and emotional learning – specifically building self awareness, cooperation, caring and empathy. You will find our educators and children engaging in the local community to build a sense of belonging and expand their life experiences.

Our Directors Sarah, Emma, Rebecca, Ashleigh and Bec lead the team of Educators to ensure caring, sensitive, available and responsive educators enabling children to develop secure relationships. They help children learn what healthy, connected relationships look like and how to create such relationships later in life. Supporting each child’s individual learning and development is central to the way in which individual needs, interests and strengths are considered as well as the strong level of cultural diversity in the centre.

For more information, visit www.thebeachearlylearningcentre.com.au 10

O N T H E C OA S T – FAM ILIES

Located Located at at Erina | Kincumber | Tumbi Umbi | Wyong Erina | Kincumber | Tumbi Umbi | Wyong

Become part of our Beach family Become part of our Beach family

Our teams believe in empowering children to be their Our teams believe in empowering children to be their best selves through play-based learning and research best selves through play-based learning and research www.thebeachearlylearningcentre.com.au www.thebeachearlylearningcentre.com.au

ACTIVATE FOODS

Are you tired of thinking about what to have to dinner?

Are you sick of having to make everything and clean up afterwards? Well, your magic fairies have arrived! Megan and Marty Bowden from Activate Foods at Erina create healthy and delicious family sized meals to take the edge off your dinner time frustrations.

With a young family themselves, Megan and Marty understand the pressure parents are under everyday trying to juggle work, kids, after school activities and keeping the house in order.

(Where do these super parents find the time??) There’s nothing worse than piling through the door at 5.30pm and not knowing what everyone is going to have dinner let alone what you’ve got in the house to cook.

This was the problem Activate Foods was born to solve! You can have a healthy and delicious meal ready and waiting for you or the whole family that takes next to no time to prepare. Imagine popping a family sized lasagne in the oven before you leave for sport practice and having the smell of melting cheese welcome you back in the door (yum!.

Dinner is on the table 10 minutes later and it only took you 1 minute of work!

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The local team has a rotating menu of meals and you can choose between fresh single serve meals to keep in the fridge for the week (perfect for lunch on– the–go) or frozen options to have ready and waiting when you get caught out unprepared. And good news for those with dietary requirements, they cater for gluten free, low carb, dairy free and have plant based meals too.

They’re not like a regular meal company you may have tried before, they make just about everything from scratch in their Erina kitchen and retail store. They’re completely local and the difference is their meals taste home made – they taste like real food because they’re made with fresh ingredients. There are

no pre made sauces full of salt, sugar and additives, just house made spice mixes, curry pastes and broths. The team keep all the goodness in your meals for you to enjoy.

“

They’re completely local and the difference is that their meals taste home made – they taste like real food because they’re made with fresh ingredients

SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Check out the menu to find out what you could be eating next week at www.activatefoods.com.au or pop in to their Erina store 7 days a week at 222 The Entrance Rd.

Feel Fa-La-La-La Fabulous This Christmas!

Christmas morning is generally filled with so much excitement, but it can also be filled with chaos and disorder – especially for the head of the house aka “the Mums”.

When the chaos takes over it can leave us women feeling frazzled and not very stylish; especially as we are so busy ensuring food is on the table, the living room is tidy and the kids are dressed.

We are here to remind you that Christmas isn’t just about the kids, you deserve to enjoy the day too!

Below we have Five Ways To Feel Fabulous on Christmas morning and hopefully put some of the fun back in your festive season.

1 Be prepared Select your clothes the night before to ensure you are not wasting time in your wardrobe, getting frustrated and then

throwing on “whatever will do”.

2 Allow “you” time Set aside an achievable amount of time (be it 10, 15, 30 minutes) for you to get yourself ready. Let this be YOUR

“

Christmas isn’t just about the kids, you deserve to enjoy the day too!

BY SAM & JORDI WOODS

4 Nourish your body with a wholesome breakfast and lots of water We all know that overindulgence in Christmas treats is expected, therefore, if you can nourish your body with a healthy morning meal and water you will feel better for it.

5 Don’t feel like you have to do it all Delegate! As women we often try and take on everything and do it all ourselves, be sure to make a list of what needs to be done and delegate jobs that are appropriate to different family members.

time, close the door and allow yourself to indulgence in the calm.

3 Wear something stylish (or something that makes you feel good) This may be your favourite dress, a Christmas tee, a fabulous pair of earrings or even a statement lipstick.

T his Christmas be stylish, sane and feel fa-la-la-la fabulous!

Vibrantly yours, Sam & Jordi Woods x

Understanding styling and fashion is one thing. Having a super–natural flair for making everyday people look incredible is another. Once you’ve met Sam & Jordi Woods, it’s hard not to catch their infectious passion for dressing to match your own lifestyle, personality and charisma. Through their consultancy ‘Vibrant Concepts’, Sam & Jordi have transformed the lives of thousands. Let Sam & Jordi show you how to look and feel fabulous everyday at their Style Studio in Erina – learn the art of illusion dressing, colour matching, styling, translating fashion trends and savvy shopping with their unique VC Signature Styling Systems and services that are truly personal and really work! To contact Vibrant Concepts phone 0425 221 676.

DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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Holiday

Vibes

BY NIKKI SMITH – MATERNAL CHILD AND FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER.

Is anyone else feeling the overwhelm of the year coming to a close?

Parties, dinners, graduations, the organisation of trips away, shopping, shopping, shopping.

Are your children feeling ‘off track and stressed out?’

Could it be that they’re reflecting the overwhelm and unsettled energy you’re possibly putting out?

I know as a mama I’m having my fair share of ‘moments’ as the holidays rapidly approach, and I know that my children are vibing off that too. We are all so ready for the holidays to begin whilst also being aware that, ‘this too shall pass.’ And it does pass, seemingly more and more quickly as the years go by.

This time of year, is a wrap up of all

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that has come in the months before (and it’s been a CRAZY couple of months!) while at the same time often an avalanche of chaos, stress and anxiety around the numerous things that we still need to get done, to attend, to buy, to cook, to clean, item after item that needs to be handled and ticked off our many, many holiday ‘to do’ lists. This can create tension within homes, anger around finances being stretched, and anxiety around events with young children.

As parents our fuses often become short. We start getting snappy, and at times impatient. Our stress becomes our children’s stress and before we know it, we’re yelling and growling mean words, were punishing our children and screaming at the top of our lungs, we may even lose what is left of our self control as our fuses become thinner and frayed. What are we achieving by this stress induced mania? Happy holiday vibes? Beautiful family memories?

Can we repair what’s becoming ruptured as we approach the season of ‘joy?’

The holidays are exciting and so magical for children. It’s normal for them to get a little over excited now and then, maybe even a bit cranky and tired too, they may need a bit of extra reconnection and downtime to help them reset and get their behaviour back on track.

Let’s put ourselves in our children’s shoes for a minute, as an adult would you change your behaviour by harsh interactions such as being yelled at?

“

This holiday season let’s try slowing down a bit to make the time for more rest and reconnection

Adults tend to behave as well as they are treated. So why don’t we expect the same for our children?

Human beings of all ages will tend to operate on this very same principle. We will all behave as well as we are treated.

Our response to being treated well is to treat others well in return.

As quoted by Dr Elliot Barker, director of the Canadian Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse, puts it beautifully.

“Children who have their needs met early by loving parents are subjected totally and thoroughly to the most severe form of ‘discipline’ conceivable: they don’t do what you don’t want them to do because they love you so much!”

This holiday season let’s try slowing down a bit to make the time for more rest and reconnection.

Let’s go deeper and look at a couple of strategies we can start putting into place: NO! IT’S A STRONG WORD Can you look at beginning your day by only using ‘no’ for things that may actually cause harm, look around your home and plan out more of a ‘yes’ home, for example remembering to put the iPad away at night so in the morning your child isn’t asking for it because it’s now out of sight.

CHOOSING YOUR BATTLES Can you look at stopping the ‘don’ts’ for the things that really don’t matter.

REPHRASING By rephrasing your commands into invitations for cooperation, such as, ‘Let’s put on some quiet music and take a ten minute rest. Do you want to sit with me here on the couch or have a lie down in your bed while we rest?’ and ‘Let’s all do a five–minute tidy up and see who can pick up the most toys, okay? Ready. Set. Go!’ EXPECTATIONS The next time you feel yourself getting upset about the mess in your little one’s room, take a moment to stop and think, ‘is this battle about me and my expectations of a ‘clean’ house? Is it age appropriate to expect them to do it on their own?

Can I help and possibly model to my child how to respect their space by getting down with them and tidying up? And most importantly, does it really matter? Is this a battle worth fighting or can I choose to close the door and come back to this later?

These are just a few simple practical tools that can not only set the tone for a much more joyous home, but it is also the beginning of repairing the rupture before the rupture even takes place.

Personally, I would like to be more conscious of ending 2021 the same way that I would like to start 2022. I choose to align myself and my family with the same values that I would like to begin next year with – Simplicity. Integrity.

Love. Friendship. Laughter. Respect. Nature and Connection.

I want to close the year by not rushing into it, by slowing down as the year wraps up, spending time with my family and enjoying even the angst and exhaustion of having an overtired young family because that is us right now and that’s ok.

With time I have realised that this season I will never get back again.

One year blurs into the next, and then another year passes, and another. The age of my girls will never be the same again, I also say goodbye to the primary school years for one daughter heading off into High School, I know now that every Christmas holiday is so different from the last.

Next year our daughters will be

Nikki Smith, is the founder of The Earthway Approach and mother to 3 beautiful, sensitive, and boisterous little women. Nikki has been a Registered Nurse for the past 12 years with a 4 year hiatus in between so that she could focus on being a mum. Nikki also has a Postgraduate in Maternal Child and Family Nursing and is currently studying counseling. Nikki has been working and supporting families on the Gold Coast, Northern Rivers and now Central Coast of NSW Australia over the past 5 years. Nikki is also the author of her newly published book ‘Honest Motherhood – Words of comfort and musings into motherhood.’ Nikki’s expertise is in early infancy and toddler behaviour, she is passionate about maternal and infant mental health and well being as well as providing holistic responsive parenting support with a whole family approach. You can find further support, and information on any of Nikki’s current offerings such as 1:1 consultations or upcoming workshops from her socials and website below.

FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/TheEarthwayApproach INSTAGRAM https://www. instagram.com/the_earthway_approach/ WEBSITE https://www.earthwayparenting.com.au/

another year older and it will be different yet again.

So please try to keep this in mind amidst the crazy: Say ‘no’ to whichever social function doesn’t align with you or your family, be mindful of the words that you are using when talking to your children. Enjoy the little and the big moments, the significant ones and the simple. But mostly have gratitude for those moments this year, the moments that you will never get back. Because no matter if those moments were dark or light in nature, they are still your moments. All of those moments that you have created are the reason that you are here now, even if that reason isn’t yet in the light.

And lastly, I’ll leave you with this, as Jan Hunt so succinctly stated, ‘Every child is no less a human being than we are.’ So, let your children have their human moments, too, the good and the bad. Try not to overload, over schedule and overwhelm them with your plans, lists and activities.

After all, it’s their holiday as much as it is yours.

Slow down and let them experience the magic instead of just the mania.

With love and gratitude, Nikki xx

The Earthway Approach A grounded & holistic approach for your whole family.

Parenting Consultations & Intimate Group Workshops with

Nikki Smith (RN, CAFN) 0404 592 134

DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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y r r e M RECYCLABLEChristmas

CLEANAWAY WASTE MANAGEMENT

REDUCE, REUSE & REC YCLE

It’s no secret that we produce more waste over the festive season. Lounge room floors full of toys and wrapping paper, Turkey leftovers for days, bins overflowing…you get the idea! In the lead up to Christmas take your time to review ten of our 1Coast’s Recycling Tips of Christmas to help you have a more sustainable Christmas and to Reduce, Reuse & Recycle as much as you can during the festivities.

Tip 1 – Decorations: Festivities need decorations but choose wisely because all that glitters is not necessarily environmentally friendly. Try to buy good quality ornaments that can be re–used for years to come and look at purchasing solar generated lights for outdoors. Feeling creative? Why not try making your own decorations – search for ‘Upcycled Christmas Decorations’ or ‘Recycled Christmas Decorations’ online for inspiration!

Tip 2 – Gifts: When buying presents for your loved ones think outside the gift box for some ideas that are sure to make a big impact on your loved one but a small impact on the environment. Here are just a few ideas: Instead of buying someone a physical present, treat them to an experience like a massage, cooking classes, tickets to the movies, restaurant vouchers or even a day out to the Reptile Park or Zoo. For a gift that grows, give a native tree or herb garden.

Charity or environmental donations can make a great present for the right person.

Try presents that are environmentally beneficial like a worm farm or compost bin.

Tip 3 – Cards: Are you sending out Christmas Cards this year? Why not send

a festive e–card instead of a cardboard one? If posting out cards, see if you can find cards printed on recycled cardboard or make your own from paper and textile scraps you find around the house.

Tip 4 – Bon Bons & Crackers: Christmas Bon Bons are a tradition enjoyed in most households on Christmas Day. We all love a good cracker and a lame joke shared around the Christmas table.

However, most of us will admit that the toys and trinkets inside will eventually make their way into the garbage bin.

Feeling creative? Why not try making your own Bon Bons or Christmas Crackers – search for ‘Make your own Bon Bons’ online for inspiration and fill them with gifts that your guests will use. Some suggestions include seedling packets, movie tickets, mini perfume bottles or even just some chocolates.

Make sure you still include the lame jokes, plenty of these are available online too!

Tip 5 – Serving Ware – No Disposables: Are you celebrating Christmas at your place this year? Avoid disposable plates, cups, knives and forks or buy biodegradable ones such as bamboo and palm leaf sets which breakdown and can be composted. Make sure all your guests know where the recycling bin is and if they are from out of town make sure they know what can be put in it!

Tip 6 – Wrapping: Wrapping paper is abundant in almost every household over the festive season, and often it ends up in large piles on the floor destined to be thrown away. Below are some alternatives for wrapping your presents: Wrap gifts in a page from an old newspaper and add a touch of colour with paint or pick a flower from the garden and stick it to the package.

Wrap presents in a new tea towel, sarong or put your gifts in a calico bag that can be reused.

Kids’ artwork is a perfect wrapping for presents to proud grandparents.

Use a Santa Sack or Stocking that fits all the gifts in – no need for wrapping and can be reused every year.

If you do buy gift wrap, look for recycled paper options, and avoid using foil wrap & cellophane as it isn’t recyclable.

Tip 7 – Batteries not included: If you’re giving a battery powered gift (you know the ones grandparents give the grandkids to annoy their parents), then remember to include rechargeable batteries and a recharger too. That way the Christmas cheer will continue throughout the year!

Tip 8 – Recycling: One of the simplest things that you can do to reduce your environmental impact at this time of year is to ensure that you put the right things into your home recycling bin.

Remember to place all your Christmas wrapping paper, envelopes, cards, party hats, bon bons, biscuit tins, fruit mince pie trays and cardboard packaging inside your Yellow Lid Recycling Bin on Christmas Day. Cellophane and foil wraps can’t be recycled, they belong in your Red Lid bin, as do ribbons, bows and twist ties. If you’re engaging in a little festive cheer, make sure those bottles and cans find a home inside your recycling bin too. Happy Recycling Tip 9 – Waste & Recycling Services: Don’t forget to put your bins out. Our Cleanaway Drivers will still be emptying your bins across the Central Coast on all the Public Holidays. Please ensure your general waste, recycling and garden vegetation bins are placed out on the kerbside the night before your collection day.

Tip 10 – Real Christmas Mulch: Did you buy a real Christmas Tree this year?

Central Coast residents can book in a Bulk Kerbside Garden Collection to have their Christmas Tree removed once they have taken down all their Christmas decorations. The tree will be taken to Australian Native Landscapes and turned into compost or mulch.

For further information on your waste and recycling services, follow 1Coast on Facebook.

DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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e v o l life Matters of

&

Dearly Beloved

Giving and receiving gifts is very much a learned skill and an inherited value system that our ‘family of origin’ imprints us with. Gift giving and receiving varies hugely and the mistake we can make is to judge it on face value as being right or wrong, good or bad. It is actually so much more complicated than that.

For the record, I am with you; gift giving is a modest and sidebar event to celebrations and important family gatherings. For a long time, I didn’t get it, however, when I was training as a marriage therapist, it was hard not to come across the classic from Gary Chapman, The Five Languages of Love.

Gift giving is one of them. The other ‘love languages’ being: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Physical Touch and Acts of Service. When gift giving is seen as a way to express love and people who are genuine ‘gifters’ can get great joy and connection through it, gifts can be seen

BY SARAH TOLMIE

READER QUESTION: Christmas is always a stressful time with our combined family gatherings. My husband’s family does Christmas very differently to how my family celebrates. It’s the whole gift giving thing. They are so over the top. We had a much more modest upbringing and gifts never really much featured as significant for our family. We couldn’t really afford it to be. Now, I find the expectation to join his families big gifting tradition stressful. It’s hard to enjoy. What can I do?

in a more positive lens.

The way love languages work is that we learn to communicate with our loved one in the language they know, prefer or desire to be loved, and if it is not the same as our primary default language, because we want to love them well, we learn to become bi–lingual. Masters of healthy relationship learn and skill up in each other’s love language.

Where we can get troubled by the whole gift giving activity, is when gifts indeed do become measures of love, or an arena for competition, influence, status or power. Where is can hurt is if in the times in between gift giving occasions the love and connection feels absent or the connection and relationship nurturing doesn’t happen.

Is there a reciprocated understanding and acceptance that your gifting habits are different? I wonder, what is your love language? Is there an understanding between you and your husband and

between the two families, that you have very different gifting origins and capacities and both can be respected and integrated?

If not, is there a way to reach a mutual middle ground by understanding each other’s differences, accepting them, and finding agreement on an approach moving forwards that honours each?

This is a relationship task for all of us in relationships once we evolve out of our ‘family of origin’. When we partner up and create our own family, we become anew as a ‘family of creation’.

The invitation is to ‘create’ your own family traditions based on a shared value system. One that you can negotiate together knowing what is important to you, and from that, you can create together a new legacy and evolve new traditions.

Much love Sarah x

Sarah Tolmie – Life & Love: Sarah is a marriage therapist, life & love and relationship coach, end–of–life consultant, an independent and bespoke funeral director and holistic celebrant. She provides holistic care, mentoring, guidance, healing and transformation for individuals, couples and families at their most important times of life & love – at end–of–life, in love & relationship, and in ritual and celebration. Sarah has a relationship online course for couples called “Creating a Miracle Marriage” and a free resource and video series for families facing dying, death and grief called “Landscapes of Life & Love and Loss”.

To find out more, visit www.sarahtolmie.com.au and www.miraclemarriage.com.au

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O N T H E C OA S T – FAM ILIES

Kindergarten

COAST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

The best start to At Coast Christian in 2022, we are looking forward to welcoming our new Preparatory Class and for the first time due to increased demand, two Kinder classes. To help children start school, below are some practical pieces of advice for parents:

8 Be mindful of what you say in front of children. Children repeat everything to their teachers.

9 Be kind and wise. Do not judge other children. You never know what lies ahead. All children make mistakes. It’s how we teach children to learn from their mistakes and to forgive others that is important.

10 Be patient. Children develop at different rates. Some children learn to read quickly, others take longer. Be positive and encouraging.

Celebrate the small successes regularly.

1 Establish an evening routine to include a bedtime story and a prayer.

Try to ensure your child has at least 8–10 hours sleep each night. Well rested children are the best learners.

2 Establish a well organised routine at home. Tell your child in advance about events and arrangements. Attending Church as a family each week is an important part of Christian life.

3 Ask your child to assist with tasks at home – it helps them contribute and builds independence. A four year old can pull up a duvet cover, pick their toys up off the floor, pack away items, help set the table, help pack and unpack the dishwasher and help feed the family pets.

4 Know that your child won’t always eat their school lunch. Children are more interested in playing with their friends. Only pack small quantities of food. Eating small amounts regularly and drinking plenty of fresh water will sustain your child throughout the day.

5 Expect your child to be tired at the end of the day. Tired children can sometimes feel bombarded by lots of questions about school. Allow them some down time to relax. They will talk when they are ready.

6 Expect to be busy. Schools are busy places and there is a large amount of information. Take the time to read the information and know when events are being held.

7 Keep a balanced perspective. Children can be very black and white in their thinking. ‘No–one played with me today’ could mean ‘the person I wanted to play with did not want to play the game I wanted to play’.

11 Work collaboratively with the school. There will be issues. No child is perfect. Listen, support the teachers and work together to help your child flourish. The teachers are always happy to make time to speak with you about issues.

12 Model good manners. Teach your child to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’, ‘excuse me’ and ‘may I’. Expect your child to not interrupt conversations.

13 Respect the school rules and procedures. Support the school by helping your child to wear full school uniform each day.

14 Smile and laugh every day. In our busyness we often miss the little things – the wonder of creation, of leaves changing colour, the caterpillar crawling along the path, the shiny pebble in your child’s pocket, the silly jokes, times of playing their games with them.

All our positions for Prep and Kinder 2022 are full while enrolment interviews for 2023 are commencing shortly.

For more information, to take a tour or request a prospectus, please visit us online or ring the office on 4368 3377.

DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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ON T H E C OA S T – FA M ILIES

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DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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The

real rites of passage for mothers

BY ALITA BLANCHARD

PREPARING FOR THE REALITY OF POST–PARTUM AND YOUR TRANSITION INTO MOTHERHOOD Early motherhood can be a shock to the system. Birth doesn’t always go to plan. There are sleepless nights, crying (often from baby and mama) and a rollercoaster of emotions that new parents often aren’t prepared for. Then there is the onslaught of advice, the frictions that might arise and perhaps the preconceived plans for a happy newborn phase that sometimes does not eventuate.

There is no denying that a baby arriving is a gift and often the greatest moment of every parent’s life. We also need to talk more about the realities of new motherhood. Mothers can get left behind, unseen and unsupported, in their vital new role as mother.

Motherhood changes you – it’s your ‘Matrescence’

In becoming a mother, you are entering a new season of your life.

Mothers in our society are expected to birth a baby and then return, as quickly as possible, to looking, feeling, and behaving like their ‘old self’ or ‘normal’.

We feel this pressure from the outside world, and we’ve been conditioned to believe it too.

There will be new challenges. New values. So much new learning. Your body will change – in all the more obvious ways but did you know even your brain is majorly up levelled in pregnancy, creating new brain pathways? You might experience super smell, more sensitive taste, more advanced social reasoning, emotional intelligence and even general intelligence.

Fortunately, this is changing. Women are realising that ‘snapping back’ is neither possible nor something we want for ourselves. We are remembering that this transformation from Maiden to Mother is a rite of passage. And what exactly is that?

Going through a rite of passage means there is no going back to our old self.

There is no return to normal. Because the whole point of a rite of passage is deep change, transformation and growth.

“

In becoming a mother, you are entering a new season of your life

EQUIP YOUR CHILD FOR LIFE Now Enrolling for 2023 Green Point Christian College has an excellent and long-established reputation for supporting families who value Christian education. Our school provides holistic education from quality staff in a caring and supportive environment.

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O N T H E C OA S T – FAM ILIES

We need to change the mainstream stories around Motherhood to honour the physical, emotional, relational, and often spiritual transformations that women experience. To find ways to honour mothers and their needs. Let’s start, for example, with the basic needs of a new mother for adequate support and rest, which so many women are not receiving.

To make the bigger society–level changes, we must start by looking within, at our own core beliefs around the value of motherhood.

Pregnancy: research and get prepared A new pregnancy often comes with a busy focus on researching and buying the ‘right’ pram, cot, nursery decorations, baby clothes and baby showers. And we might focus a lot on labour and birth, without also ‘rehearsing’ the weeks that will follow.

How would our society and the conversation about motherhood be different, if we could enjoy these activities, but also put time and energy into a different sort of ‘nesting’?

Here are some of the most vital considerations for early post–partum that will set mother and baby up for a nurtured and connected transition to motherhood: Mothers learning to ask for help, to set boundaries, to share their feelings, and communicate their needs.

Knowing in advance what support systems you can draw upon.

Planning for a ‘birth debrief’ conversation and non– judgemental, non–advice–giving ‘listening time’ with trusted people.

Deciding how you will maintain your access to nourishing warming foods for healing – whether ‘in house’ or with external help.

Adequate rest is central to our emotional and physical well being, so rest comes before housework, social time and other things that can wait.

Mothers need to be just as supported as the baby – for the well being of the child and the family unit, the mother must be well. To be truly well, we must learn to prioritise post–partum support.

“

Motherhood changes you – it’s your Matrescence

Practising radical self care – what does this look like for you?

Surrender and self–compassion practices – knowing you can’t control it all, and being able to love yourself through the highs and lows.

Realistic expectations for newborn behaviour – sleep, crying, breastfeeding and more.

Anticipating pelvic floor and body changes after birth. Learn about the spectrum of possible changes, and what your body needs to repair itself, so that you can honour the stages of healing.

Building a movement practice that you can take into postpartum – gentle, low–impact exercise like walking and yoga.

Prevention of postnatal depletion – do you want to know about using herbs and minerals for healing?

Hormone fluctuations and how this impacts mood, libido, appetite.

Normalising feelings like sadness, grief, anger and more.

How to find support for postnatal anxiety / depression – what forms this can take.

Consulting with post–partum specialists like midwives, doulas, postnatal physios, naturopaths, movement instructors, counsellors, etc and where to locate individuals with the right qualifications to help.

COMING IN 2022 UNDER THE REDGUM Follow the journey to holistic pregnancy and post–partum care @redgummothers

A collaboration of integrative women’s health specialists, bringing you information and practices to support your empowered pregnancy and post–partum. Weaving together strands from women’s health physiotherapy, clinical naturopathy, pre and postnatal yoga, and parenting education, Under the Redgum will be a place of safety, learning, inspiration and solidarity for new and experienced mothers.

Alita Blanchard helps mothers lessen the guilt and shame, release healthy anger, meet their own needs and build capacity for listening to their children’s feelings so they can feel more connected to themselves and their children. She creates a supportive space for mothers to feel heard and seen in the intensity of their motherhood journey. Alita is a mother of 4 young boys (including a stillborn son Remy) on the NSW Central Coast. She is a trauma informed Conscious Parent Coach and Women’s Circle facilitator. She provides regular mothers circles, events, listening time and parent coaching programs – online and in person. www.theawaremama.com.au Socials: @alitablanchardspace Email alitablanchard@gmail.com DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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Reframing the overtired & overstimulated

baby

BY DR ALISON MOONEY

The average baby can cry for up to two hours every day, often for no apparent reason.

As a new parent, you may find yourself searching for reasons why they might be crying or ‘dialled up,’ and trying a few strategies such as a nappy change or offering a feed in the hope that they will calm down again. You may have heard that your baby must not get ‘overtired’ as they will become very distressed and be difficult to settle again. It is impossible to teach anyone to sleep (if it was, I certainly would have followed the advice to sleep while the baby sleeps).

Sleep is under the control of innate biological regulators and sleep needs between individuals can vary dramatically. Anyone would struggle to get to sleep if they were in a distressed state, even if they were very tired. As an adult, you might have to read a book, have a bath or a warm drink to ‘dial down’ before you are relaxed enough to fall asleep. Another traditional concept you may hear is to avoid ‘overstimulating’ your baby by keeping the environment calm, quiet and predictable. In an attempt to avoid an overtired, overstimulated

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ON T H E C OA S T – FA M ILIES

baby our day to day lives can quickly become structured around our babies sleep and routines, rather than as parents trying to lead a rich, full and meaningful life full of new enjoyable experiences.

The Possums Approach The concepts of a baby being overtired or overstimulated are based on studies from the 1950’s and 60’s that are outdated. There is now an alternative, evidence based approach that may actually seem to be the opposite of traditional ideas. Rest assured that it is based on over 20 years of medical research and is known as the Possums Program or Neuroprotective Developmental Care (NDC). It has other benefits including optimising night sleep for you and your baby but is also highly beneficial for parental mental health.

This is largely due to the ability to focus on enjoyable activities and experiences with your baby while taking the focus away from sleep and routines allowing you to lead a rich, full and meaningful life.

Two Tools The Possums Approach suggests that we have two great tools up our sleeves that we can use any time we feel that our baby is ‘dialled up.’ Rather than assuming that they are overtired, and the only possible solution is to sleep, our days can be spent experimenting between the two tools of feeding or a change in sensory environment. While we cannot teach our baby to sleep, we can certainly

help them to ‘dial down’ and allow sleep to come if it is needed. With a newborn baby, our first go to is usually to offer a feed, whether that is a breastfeed or to offer a bottle feed in much the same way that you would offer the breast. It may not be the milk itself that is wanted but the full sensory experience that comes with a feed. Obviously, if there are any underlying feeding issues then the baby will not dial down or may escalate further. Please seek advice from a medical professional if you feel this may be the case.

The Possums Approach does not use the term ‘overstimulated’ as babies are born with an innate biological hunger for rich and changing sensory experiences. Recent changes to our lives with lockdowns and reducing our movements mean that a lot of babies have spent longer periods at home than they may normally have. Just like us, babies can become bored, and they may cue for a change in their environment by starting to ‘dial up.’ If a feed isn’t wanted or only calms them for a short while, you can then experiment with mixing up their sensory experience. Within the home this could be picking them up, moving to a different room, introducing a toy or song or even having a bath, but by far the easiest way to change the environment is to step outside. If you have an outdoor space where they can see the trees or feel the grass this offers up wondrous stimulation for a baby. For parents, just going about your day to day lives, shopping at the supermarket,

meeting a friend at a café or going for a walk is not only beneficial for your mental health and well being but also simultaneously provides your little one with a nourishing and constantly changing sensory experience.

My Journey It took me quite some time to realise that I was not in control of my baby’s sleep and it was not my role to teach him how to sleep or ‘self soothe.’ My first son had low sleep needs and I spent a lot of time trying to get him to sleep to a schedule. For us, it just didn’t work and led to a distressed baby, and I will admit, a few phone calls to my husband in desperation! I recall days where I thought

“

You are in charge, and you know your own unique baby better than anyone. You might just be surprised

I would just have a quiet one at home and let him have good naps in his bassinet.

Boy that was a mistake. Hours spent rocking him in a dark room, trying to get him to sleep when he was ‘supposed’ to was incredibly anxiety provoking. On the other hand, days spent out and about, meeting my mum’s group, exercising at the park and going to the supermarket all

seemed effortless in comparison.

My baby came along for the ride, slept when they needed to sleep, and I had a great time too.

Ironically, the noisier and busier it was, the better he slept.

I wish I had known about the Possums program before I had children. The approach shifts the lens from sleep, and I wonder what would have happened if I had experimented with flexibly shifting between the two tools.

Those early days might have looked quite different. So, if you are reading this, I invite you to experiment. You are in charge, and you know your own unique baby better than anyone. You might just be surprised.

Resources – www.possumsonline.com www.moonclinic.com.au For more information, email info@moonclinic.com.au

Dr Alison Mooney MBBS FRACGP DCH Clin Dip Pall Med Originally from Scotland, Alison achieved her Medical degree at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne in 2008 and has lived and worked on the Central Coast since 2010. She is currently working part time as a GP with special interests in women and child health. Following several years of fertility problems and IVF treatment, Alison and her husband are now delighted to have two very energetic boys! Alison has recently undertaken further rigorous training and is proud to be a Possums Accredited Practitioner on the Central Coast. She is thrilled to share her knowledge with families in her new service, The Moon Clinic.

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READY SET GO KIDS

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O N T H E C OA S T – FA M ILIES

Why choose multi sports over one sport?

Multi sports give your child the opportunity to use their whole body whilst playing sport, not just one skill set.

It allows them to develop all their gross motor skills rather than concentrating on one.

At Ready Steady Go Kids we focus on the basic skills of each sport, and the actions of those skills. These skills are essential in the development of your child, and we love to help assist them in growing their skill set as well as having fun doing it.

During our classes we look at each sport and break it down into skills. An example of this is Rugby. What we do in rugby is practise kicking, run and kicking, drop kicking, passing, catching and try scoring. In Basketball we practise bouncing and catching, passing the ball, dribbling and shooting for baskets. All of these are done in age appropriate classes.

Along with Rugby and Basketball we also do Tennis, Athletics, Golf, Hockey, AFL, T–Ball, Cricket and Soccer. Each fortnight we change the sport, so during a typical term we do 5 sports each term.

Each child has their own equipment to use during the class as well.

Imagine a class where your child gets to have fun, gets lots of exercise with our

warm up activities, gains a gross motor skill set and challenges themselves with our agility circuits. We have everything your 18months to 6 years old would want.

Our Get Ready class is for 18months to 2.5 years, Steady Class is 2.5 – 4 years and our Go class is for 4 – 6 years (our school readiness program).

At Ready Steady Go Kids we also understand that each child is different and learns at their own pace. Our awesome coaches love to help the kids and watch them grow and succeed in learning something new. They help them through the agility circuits full of balancing, weaving, jumping, hurdling and our crawling tunnel.

The kids also get to be a part of a mini team. They will learn to take turns and get to know each other as well as gaining listening and thinking skills along the way. Our coaches captivate the children and encourage them to learn.

We are a Covid safe business and all our equipment is cleaned between classes, so we make it safe for our members.

“

At Ready Steady Go Kids we also understand that each child is different and learns at their own pace The best part about Ready Steady Go Kids is we offer a FREE TRIAL to our classes so you can experience what its like before you join us for the term.

Our classes are run daily at our amazing venues, Breakers Stadium at Terrigal and Charmy Indoor Sports. We run to school terms, so the kids have a mini break during school holidays.

If you think Ready Steady Go Kids is for you then head to our website for more information and to book your trial or spot www.readysteadygokids.com.au or check out our Facebook/Insta group “ready steady go kids central coast”.

DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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Five ways to make post lockdown picnics on the Central Coast sun safe

W

ith lockdown restrictions easing, Central Coast residents are sure to be planning their outdoor get togethers with loved ones. Cancer Council NSW is sharing their sun safe post lockdown picnic guide to protect everyone from harmful UV rays.

As the weather heats up, the UV across the state hits high levels, meaning irreversible damage is happening to unprotected skin, the type that can cause skin cancer.

As people start to gather outdoors, it is important to practice sun safe behaviours.

Twynette Dickinson, Community Lead at Cancer Council’s Central Coast office, said Cancer Council wants to make it as easy as possible to enjoy outdoor gatherings in a sun safe way.

“Many of us are already enjoying Covid safe picnics, and there’s lots of ways you can make sure you’re protecting yourself from the sun”.

HERE ARE OUR TOP FIVE TIPS: 1 Pack a sun safe picnic bag that includes plenty of sunscreen, sunnies, and some spare sun safe hats. Pick a sunscreen that you like best – there are plenty to choose from. I love the Cancer Council Active range because it

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O N T H E C OA S T – FA M ILIES

feels light and non–greasy on my skin – perfect for the hot weather we have coming up.

2 Hitting the beach for your picnic?

Check out Cancer Council’s new Journey of Hope range, a limited edition swimwear collection that features artwork by Indigenous artist, Riki Salam.

The UPF 50+ range has pieces for the whole family and promotes awareness about how cancer impacts Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

3 Stay hydrated and cool. While UV from the sun can still do damage on cool and cloudy days, make sure you manage the heat by staying hydrated. You can add fresh fruit or citrus to your water to add flavour and make it extra refreshing.

4 Find a spot under a tree or take a beach umbrella. Having your Covid safe picnic in the shade will protect you from the sun and keep you cool.

5 Download the SunSmart app for UV reminders, tips, and sunscreen advice. Looking at the SunSmart app in the morning has become part of my everyday routine. It tells me the recommended sun protection times in my local area. During spring UV levels are high most of the day, and the best way to protect our skin from the harsh UV rays is to use as many forms of sun protection as possible.

“Whether you’re having a picnic, heading to the beach, or going for a walk, remember to Slip on a shirt, Slop on some sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek out shade or bring your own and Slide on some sunnies,” said Ms Dickinson.

“At least 95% of all skin cancers are caused by overexposure to UV. This means nearly all skin cancers can be prevented when we make sun protection a habit. Remember our top five tips when you’re heading outside to meet your family and friends. Our tips will protect you from the sun, reducing your skin cancer risk,” Ms Dickinson concludes.

For more information on how to be sun smart, visit www.cancercouncil.com.au or call 13 11 20.

A community focused on happiness, education and belonging.

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4384 9000 DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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digestive stool analysis The inside information

BY DIANA ARUNDELL – UNIVERSITY QUALIFIED NATUROPATH

We don’t know what we don’t know about the human body however as time progresses, modern science leads to discoveries and tools which provide valuable confirmation when diagnosing health conditions.

Orthodox medicine is brilliant at identifying and treating acute illness and naturopathic medicine is of particular benefit in the treatment of chronic health issues. Naturopaths have been banging on about the importance of the gut and digestive health for many decades and if tv commercials are anything to go by, it appears now everyone is more interested in gut health.

Digestive disturbance can present in many ways: excessive burping/ flatulence, too loose/hard stools, bloating, pain/cramping, blood/mucous present in stools, urgency, frequency or lack of regular bowel motions, reflux/ heartburn, nutrient deficiencies etc and it’s not always easy to identify specific causes. Excellent case history taking, examination and pathology testing are essential and used to be all that could be relied upon for accurate diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal issues. More recently, other functional investigations such as digestive stool analysis has become available and can provide very specific information about what is going on inside the digestive tract and may lead to otherwise difficult to determine causes of some of the above presentations.

Comprehensive digestive stool analysis also known as gastrointestinal (GI) mapping uses a stool sample to measure the health of the gut microbiome and other indicators of digestion, absorption, infection and inflammation. Specific treatment plans may be more confidently prescribed based on actual results of what is going on for that individual. More modern stool analysis uses technology that gives quantifiable amounts of bacteria, viruses, fungal or parasitic load which is also important as this can indicate directly what may be contributing to otherwise difficult to determine causes of digestive upset. It’s especially useful as many bacteria are beneficial and essential to good gut health in certain numbers, however can be problematic if out of balance so a simple positive or negative

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ON T H E C OA S T – FAM ILIES

“

Naturopaths have been banging on about the importance of the gut and digestive health for many decades test may not be overly useful.

In the past, a basic stool sample was used to establish the presence of pathogenic microbes but functional stool analysis not only detects the presence of unfavourable pathogenic organisms, it also can measure the presence of the desirable commensal bacteria in the gut. These beneficial bacteria are part of a complex ecosystem inside our gastrointestinal tract which helps produce vitamins from our ingested nutrients, protect our gut wall barrier, contribute to our immune function and protect against over colonisation from the pathogenic strains.

Testing for quantity presence of normal commensal bacteria in the gut can help identify which strains of probiotics (if any) are going to have the best impact on optimising digestive function. For example the firmicutes and bacteroidetes phyla are the most dominant phyla in the human digestive tract running from the nose/mouth through to the intestines. If these come back out of range, it’s indicative of an imbalance in favourable bacteria in the digestive tract. Further more specific imbalances of normal commensal bacteria as well as pathogenic bacteria may help identify the presence of other underlying diseases or an associated increased risk of developing certain diseases. For example certain bacteria in the gut are associated with an increased risk of developing auto immune related illnesses.

Opportunistic bacteria are referred to as such because when they are out of balance, they only cause symptoms in some, not all individuals. Overgrowth by opportunistic bacteria is more likely in

individuals with history of antibiotic use, a weakened immune system, unhealthy dietary/lifestyle choices or may result from other intestinal infection. Similarly fungal organisms may be happily existing in the gastrointestinal tract not causing any issues until overgrowth occurs and treatment is required.

Other than isolating amounts of favourable and unfavourable microbes in the gut, functional stool analysis can provide specific information about digestion function. Intestinal markers such as pancreatic elastase, beta–glucuronidase, secretory IgA and zonulin amongst others can add valuable information to a digestive health picture. Pancreatic enzymes are crucial for upper digestive processes, elevated beta–glucuronidase may be associate with unfavourable balance of bacteria in the gut and issues with optimal liver detoxification. Secretory IgA is one of the most important players in our gut and is vital for good immune function and protecting the gut against pathogens.

High levels of zonulin is considered a sign that intestinal permeability may be an issue as it’s a protein that can open up the important tight junctions in the gut wall. A strong, healthy gut lining barrier is essential to reduce contaminants including larger food particles and microbes entering into the blood.

Comprehensive digestive stool analysis will also analyse the amount of undigested food particles in the stool to help create a comprehensive upper digestive picture by way of digestive enzyme and hydrochloric acid function.

Stool samples can also be tested for antibiotic resistant genes which is

useful in establishing the best treatment protocol.

Functional digestive stool analysis is non invasive so a relatively easy test to do for both adults and children who have unexplained digestive disturbance. The test itself is not cheap and will usually cost around $300–$500 depending on how many markers are tested so it’s best kept for those tricky digestive issues that have escaped an easy diagnosis.

For further information or to make an appointment please contact Diana Arundell at Avoca Naturopath on 0410 465 900.

B.H.Sc (comp medicine) B.A., N.D., Dip. Nut, D.R.M.

Nutrition Herbal Medicine Fertility Management Children’s Health Wellness Programs 0410 465 900

Diana Arundell is a university–qualified naturopath and consults from her Avoca Naturopath clinic.

She has a special interest in fertility and pregnancy health, digestive health, immune function and family wellness programs. She was a nutrition lecturer at Macquarie University for 10 years, and is an accredited Journey Practitioner. For further information or to make an appointment please contact Diana Arundell at Avoca Naturopath on 0410 465 900.

avocanaturopath.com.au

naturopathdiana@gmail.com nutrition and wellness | herbal medicine | B.H.Sc (comp medicine) B.A., N.D, Dip. Nut 118 Avoca Drive, Kincumber

DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

31

I’m pregnant

What do I do next?

BY DR GEORGIA PAGE

In one of our previous articles we talked about pre pregnancy planning so you can be the healthiest you can be before you fall pregnant, and to increase your changes of conceiving and having a healthy baby. If some of those tips helped and now you are pregnant you may be wondering – what do I do next?

Firstly, congratulations! It is a very exciting time in your life and we wish you a comfortable and relaxed pregnancy.

A good start is to see your GP for your first pregnancy visit around the 4 – 8 week mark. Your GP can confirm your pregnancy and dates, assess your health and organise routine antenatal tests recommended for your pregnancy. They will also give you information regarding where you can receive your ongoing pregnancy care and where you can deliver your baby. Outlined below is a ten point pregnancy checklist to help you achieve a healthy pregnancy.

PR E G NA N C Y C H E C K L I S T 1 Blood Tests in Pregnancy Your GP will order some initial bloods tests including your blood group and antibody testing (for Rhesus factor). They will also screen for infections that can affect you and your baby. Other blood tests may be carried out depending on

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your circumstances and may include testing your iron, thyroid and vitamin D levels. An initial urine test will be sent off to exclude infection also.

Blood tests will be repeated at various stages of your pregnancy including a test for gestational diabetes which is usually done at 26 – 28 weeks, or earlier for those at high risk.

2 Ultrasounds in Pregnancy If you are unsure of the date of your last period and are unsure how may weeks pregnant you may be you can have an ultrasound to determine your approximate due date. A first trimester ultrasound is usually performed between 11 – 14 weeks and a second trimester ultrasound at 18 – 20 weeks is recommended to check the baby’s organs.

during your pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. The usual recommended dose is 0.5mg, but in some patients 5mg is recommended depending on their underlying health conditions. 150mg of Iodine daily is also recommended for brain and nervous system development.

Check with your pharmacist that the pregnancy multivitamin you are taking contains the recommended amounts. Other supplements may be recommended such as iron or Vitamin D depending on your circumstances.

3 Antenatal Screening Tests Antenatal screening tests are offered to all women in the first trimester of pregnancy to identify if there is an increased chance of having a baby with a chromosomal condition. These tests are optional. This includes a special ultrasound (called the Nuchal Translucency Scan) in combination with a blood test at approximately 12 weeks. More recently another blood test has become available called a Non Invasive Perinatal Test (NIPT). This is a blood test of the mother, performed at approximately 10 weeks, which contains part of the DNA of the baby. This test comes at an extra cost so please discuss with your doctor.

5 Diet and Exercise in Pregnancy A healthy, well balanced diet with a wide variety of fruits and vegetables is recommended during pregnancy.

You don’t need to ‘’eat for two’’ – two additional healthy snacks is all that is required. Foods to avoid during pregnancy include any raw meats and raw seafood, soft cheeses and ensure salads are well washed to reduce the risk of an infection called Listeriosis.

It’s still ok to have caffeine but it is recommended to reduce your intake to 2 or 3 cups of coffee or 6 cups of tea a day.

Keeping fit and active during pregnancy is important for physical and psychological well being as well as helping prepare the body for childbirth. Thirty minutes of aerobic and strengthening activity 4 to 5 times per week is recommended, however avoid contact or high sport risk sports, and avoid overheating.

4 Multivitamins in Pregnancy Folic acid supplements are recommended

6 Vaccination during Pregnancy During pregnancy the immune system is

reduced which makes women and their unborn baby more susceptible to certain infections. When pregnant women are vaccinated antibodies transfer to the baby so they also receive protection.

Three government funded vaccines are recommended during pregnancy to reduce the risk of significant illness to mother and unborn baby. This includes the influenza vaccine (given at any stage of pregnancy), the whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine between 20 and 32 weeks, and the Covid–19 vaccine at any stage of pregnancy.

7 Medications during Pregnancy If you are on any regular medications it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to check if they are safe during pregnancy. You should also check if any over the counter medications or herbal supplements you may be taking are safe also. The Mothersafe hotline at the Royal Hospital for Woman in Randwick is also a good resource – 02 9382 6539 8 Smoking and Alcohol during

pregnancy Smoking can be harmful to your unborn baby and increase the risk of early

pregnancy loss, prematurity, low birth weight and stillbirth. We recommend you do not smoke and preferably not be in the company of smokers for lengthy periods of time. Alcohol can also cause harm to the unborn baby including brain development. There is no consensus on safe levels of alcohol that can be consumed during pregnancy so it is best to avoid.

9 Antenatal Care options

There are many options for antenatal care and delivery available and this may depend on your circumstances and underlying health risks. Options may include referral to the local public hospital antenatal clinic for care managed by midwives and doctors, ‘’share care’’ with your GP with delivery at the public hospital, or referral you to a private obstetrician for delivery at a private hospital.

10 Mental well being during pregnancy

It is just as important to look after your

“

You don’t need to eat for two.

Two additional healthy snacks is all that is required. mental health during pregnancy as your physical health. If you have noticed an increase in symptoms of depression or anxiety please reach out and talk to your doctor or support person. You can also call PANDA – Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Hotline on 1300 726 306 We wish you well during your pregnancy and hope you have a memorable, enjoyable and healthy experience.

RESOURCES www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au www.raisingchildren.net.au/pregnancy

Georgia enjoys all aspects of general practice and has been working at Your Family Doctors at Erina for the last 12 years. The practice has a fabulous team and they pride themselves on delivering good quality health care, with that special personal touch. For more information call 4365 4999, check the website www.yourfamilydoctors.com.au or like them on Facebook.

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Paediatric ad.indd 1

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DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

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Salicylate sensitivity (or just all round sensitivity to many chemicals)

BY CLARE MARCANGELO

More and more often parents are recognising that their children seem to have reactions to foods and are unsure what those foods maybe, or why. Salicylate sensitivity, (or just all round sensitivity to many chemicals), in food, environment, both natural and artificial, are more common than we realise.

So what exactly are salicylates and where do we find them?

Unfortunately as it is a natural chemical, acting as a pesticide to protect plants, namely fruits and vegetables. Its high in most fruit, and many vegetables for example tomatoes, zucchini and

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avocado. It is also abundant in some medicines, cleaners and even plastics.

One issue parents may not be aware of is the high salicylate content of mint and mint flavouring. So if the extra ingredients in toothpaste weren’t enough to trip a sensitive child up, the minty flavour could be!

This can be a real issue, as these sensitivities can cause a myriad of symptoms from rashes to sleeplessness.

But my biggest fear, is for children undergoing assessment, these symptoms can influence diagnosis. What if many of the markers a practitioner is looking for such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity or impulsive behaviour are present, but only as a result of what the child had for lunch?

This would be a tragedy for the child

and the practitioner, as they can only assess what they are observing, so its essential they see the child themselves, free from any reactions.

Unfortunately this kind of sensitivity is common. It can be seen often in so many children, whether they have anxiety, sensory issues, ODD, ASD. ADHD or even giftedness. A simplistic way to think about it is that perhaps being sensitive to big feelings, thoughts, and stimuli just means they are all round sensitive.

We do know that chemical sensitivity, in particular, salicylate sensitivity occurs regularly in children with Autism, as they tend to be deficient in the PST enzyme, which is responsible for the breakdown of phenols such as salicylates and also amines. They can also have a

“

What if many of the markers a practitioner is looking for such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity or impulsive behaviour are present, but only as a result of what the child had for lunch? lowered ability to break down sulphur, leading to a sulphate deficiency, again needed by the PST enzyme to break down these compounds.

We know also that children with Autism tend towards digestive issues, some that don’t show themselves easily to parents in early years, and this dysregulation also contributes to this issue.

It must be noted that although the data supports gut issues in ASD, it is common in all manner of Neurodiverse patients, and definitely those with anxiety. We know that this may be due to the Gut–Brain connection, so it makes sense on this basic level that many of these kids share these issues.

We all have a threshold for these compounds, and once exceeded, this is when issues occur. That is why some children react faster than others, and why these behaviours can seem to come from nowhere – as it wasn’t the punnet of strawberries that caused it all, rather that they tipped the scales following the spaghetti bolognaise and the kiwi fruit.

These reactions can look very different from child to child. They range from bed wetting, frequent throat clearing, asthma, anxiety, focus issues, impulsive, silly or even hyperactive behaviours, oppositional defiance to

difficulty sleeping or even night terrors.

Many children have tell tale signs of a reaction too, which makes it easier to identify, such as red cheeks or ears, or single spots/rashes around the mouth.

So the advice for this issue is to restrict diet – removing all foods that contain high, and sometimes medium amounts of salicylates indefinitely.

This can mean a huge relief for children and their families, they are able to be “themselves” without the unwanted symptoms and behaviours that were holding them back. But what of the long term?

The best way forward is to address the causes of sensitivity, rather than focus on the symptoms. Once we work on digestive issues, little bodies are able to not only absorb nutrients from diet, but also filter the salicylates properly so that they no longer wreak havoc on the system.

These are the factors that need to be taken into account when tackling issues like these. Of course, the other issue with avoiding salicylates long term is the lack of so many nutrients, not to mention fibre. Many children already have issues around food aversions, if a child spends many months only allowed pears and

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papaya, there is a good chance they may decide they can no longer tolerate apples, melons, grapes and berries. This would be a huge step backwards for that family.

So now you know more about chemical sensitivity, and you may be able to identify it in your child. While it would be so helpful to take the easy steps of removing artificial additives and household chemicals to reduce the load on their systems, I hope you now feel happy that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. These compounds may be currently contributing to your child’s story, but there are ways that mean they don’t have to forever, and you can go onto enjoying them without the reaction in the future.

“

We all have a threshold for these compounds, and once exceeded, this is when issues occur

SPECIALISING IN CHILDHOOD BEHAVIOURAL ISSUES, LEARNING AND ANXIETY.

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DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

35

AUSTRALIAN DENTAL AND IMPLANT GROUP

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Invisalign is so discrete, most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them!

It’s a simple, painless and effective way to transform your smile and ultimately change your life.

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To begin your Invisalign journey you must start with a consultation appointment so your dentist can assess your eligibility to get Invisalign.

After your initial consultation, if you and your dentist decide Invisalign is right for you, the next step is a follow up appointment so we can get a full scan of the inside of your mouth, to make sure you get the perfect fit.

Your Invisalign dentist will then create a mock–up of your final smile using the Digital Smile Design system to make sure you happy to proceed with the process.

After this appointment, our highly qualified dentist will order your custom Invisalign aligners. Once they arrive, you come back in to make sure they fit perfectly and your Invisalign journey begins.

Based on your dentist’s advice, you need to come back in for follow up appointments every 6 – 8 weeks to make sure everything is going well and to get new aligners to further shape your smile.

Benefits of a having a straighter smile with Invisalign: Smile with confidence quickly Many patients start to see improvements

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ON T H E C OA S T – FAM ILIES

in their smile within just a few months.

Unlike metal braces, most people won’t know you’re going through orthodontic treatment when you’re wearing Invisalign clear aligners because they are virtually invisible.

is the ability to view what your final result will look like using technology.

Using digital 3D Scanning, patients can experience their orthodontic journey from start to finish and approve the final outcome before committing to treatment.

Better oral health Invisalign aligners are removable, so it’s easier to clean your teeth and maintain your oral health during treatment.

Unlike traditional braces, there are no metal brackets and wires getting in the way of flossing and brushing.

Potentially fewer visits to the dentist Invisalign treatment is ideal for your busy schedule, with visits only required approximately every six to eight weeks (compared to three to four weeks with braces).

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Coastal Goddess

Coastal Goddess in Saratoga is thrilled to be the first and only clinic on the Central Coast to offer patients The O–Shot®.

Administered by high qualified doctors, The O–Shot® is a simple, but highly effective procedure that helps to increase a woman’s sexual desire, arousal, and ability to orgasm as well as helping to diminish incontinence.

Led by Dr Kelly Needham, Coastal Goddess is a unique women’s intimate health and facial aesthetics clinic providing cosmetic facial treatments and vaginal rejuvenation, and the O–Shot®.

GP and O–Shot® practitioner, Dr Jodie Ralph, believes “all women can take not only an active stance on physical ageing

but can manage intimate health through sexual function, urinary control and vaginal comfort, areas of our health that are widely viewed as taboo. The Coastal Goddess team are dedicated to nurturing natural beauty from the inside and out” says Ralph.

What does the treatment involve?

The O–Shot® is completely natural, using your body’s own nutrients to heal, rejuvenate & enhance. The procedure entails extracting growth factors from a patient’s blood and re–injecting it with a special miniature needle into their clitoris.

First clinic on the Coast to offer The O–Shot® help rejuvenate cells that are vital for sexual pleasure, providing you with stronger, more frequent orgasms”.

The clinically proven procedure which has been producing fantastic results for patients worldwide is also highly beneficial for managing incontinence.

As of now over 90% of women injected globally have had an improvement of their sexual function and a significant number have had a resolution of their stress urinary incontinence. The procedure is comfortable and virtually pain free and takes only 45 minutes, with no recovery time necessary.

According to Dr Jodie Ralph the revolutionary technique “is ideal for individuals seeking to increase their sexual desire and orgasm occurrence”.

Ralph explains that The O–Shot® stimulates tissue around the clitoris to

It’s time to take back control and experience the O–Shot® for yourself! ​www.coastalgoddess.com.au 8 Mimosa Avenue, Saratoga phone 4319 4415

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DR SIMON HUTABARAT MMBS (Hons), BSc, FRACS (Orth), FAOrthA

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Dr Hutabarat completed his medical degree at the University of NSW in 1991.

He has spent a year on fellowship in Hands and Arthroplasty (Upper and Lower Limb) in Great Britain and the United States. He has been working in Orthopaedics for 31 years after accepting an Orthopaedic research position at the Prince of Wales Hospital in 1989. He has had several publications in international Orthopaedic journals.

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REFERRALS For all referrals, please email or call our rooms phone 02 4341 9925 office@ccbj.com.au ccbj.com.au DrSimonHutabarat 39

DECEMBER/JANUARY – ISSUE 115

Laura’s Place can offer you a whole service from advice to assessments, working with the family to help your child reach their full potential.

BEING A PARENT ISN’T EASY...

Everyone needs a little help sometimes

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