Families Magazine - Brisbane Aug/Sept 2014 Schools & Education Issue

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Issue 5: August/September 2014 www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Brisbane

From North Lakes to Redland Bay and everywhere in between

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION

What is ‘True Grit’?

Sleep for Teens Top Tips for Homework & much more

WIN

Nominate your favourite teacher to win a 3 night stay at the Gold Coast

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RELEVANT

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LOCAL

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INSPIRED

Issue 5 August/September 2014

Contents Welcome to our Brisbane Schools & Education Issue.

I make no secret about the fact that I am a teacher. I trained to be a high school History Teacher. I’ve also taught in primary schools and at QUT in the Faculty of Education – teaching trainee teachers. I’ve taught in Australia, England and Scotland. I love teaching. I love learning. I love helping others love learning. I volunteer in my son’s Year 2 class. I am in and around teachers and students a lot, most weeks. So when we were considering putting together an Education issue of Families Magazine - Brisbane, I was the first to put my hand up and agree.

Families Magazine – Brisbane is LOCAL. So for this issue we went out and met some of the children from four Brisbane State Primary Schools to find out what they love about their school. You can read their beautiful words on pages 14 & 15. If you have a gifted child (or think you might have) take a look at our article on ‘Acceleration’ and read about how ‘taking the brakes off’ isn’t the same as ‘pushing’ our kids academically - pages 16 & 17. We also are looking into the concept of ‘True Grit’ in this issue and how our schools are building capacity, not dependency in our Brisbane children – pages 18 & 19.

We also have our usual Parenting, Family Health and news articles, as well as our Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory and some awesome competitions!

And because we believe our teachers do such an fantastic job, we are running a particularly wonderful competition this issue. We are asking our readers and online followers to nominate their favourite teacher. The teacher with the most votes will receive a $200 Dymocks Voucher & a bunch of chocolate flowers. Everyone who nominates a teacher (that’s you reading this!) will be entered to win a 3 night stay in a 2 bedroom apartment at the Gold Coast!

Visit our website’s competitions page to read the full details.

We have a wonderful online community on our Facebook page so do pop over and join the fun. Full of useful hints, tips and local updates, we’d love to see you there!

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Parenting & Family Health

Itchy & Scratchy – A guide to common schoolyard infections.

How to help your child with handwriting.

Anxiety in Children.

12-25 Brisbane Schools

and Education

I Love My School Because…

Acceleration – Releasing the brakes on our brightest students.

True Grit – Building capacity not dependency in our children.

Sleep and Our Older Children & more…

26-29 Clubs and Classes Directory Four pages packed full of local clubs,

classes and activities for kids and their grown-ups.

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Families Fun

August and September (and visit our online calendar too!)

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Families Freebies

Circle the things you plan to do in

WIN cool stuff for the little ones, the older ones and even for adults including a 3 night stay at the Gold Coast.

Families Magazine – Brisbane – for everyone in every family!

Janine

Cover image: courtesy of Lanchester Photography 0404 041 043 www.lanchesterphotography.com

Janine - Editor

Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.

Nelson Mandela

CONTACT US: Families Magazine – Brisbane, P O Box 1018, Brighton 4017 07 3265 5738 Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

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Next issue: Oct/Nov 2014 – Deadline Friday 22 August 2014 Focus on Toddlers & Childcare Readership 75,000 every issue. Published 6 times a year. For families in Brisbane, Redlands, Logan and the Moreton Region. © Families Magazine 2014.

Families Magazine – Brisbane is audited by the Audited Media Association of Australia; CAB giving you assurance that our claims to distribution & readership are accurate.

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Families News

BRISBANE FAMILIES NEWS

Looking for the latest news and views in Brisbane? We've got it covered!

Make a date this Daffodil Day August 22 2014 Every day in Australia, around 350 people are told they have a lifethreatening cancer and sadly more than 115 people die of the disease each day. With your help, we can make a difference and beat this disease… make a date this Daffodil Day! Support Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day on Friday August 22 and show you care about

beating cancer. Every daffodil and every donation goes toward helping those who are affected by cancer.

Getting involved is easy. You can purchase Daffodil Day goodies at your local shopping centres, train and bus stations and other locations on Friday August 22 and you can donate to Daffodil Day at any time.

Call 1300 65 65 85 or visit www. daffodilday.com.au or www.facebook. com/daffodildayaustralia to get started. Show you care about beating cancer and wear a Cancer Council pin this Daffodil Day.

Please support your local school by attending their fete: Fetes l o o h c S

Sat 2 Aug Middle Park State School Fete Sat 2 Aug Kenmore South State School Country Fair Sun 3 Aug Mt Carmel Fete (Our Lady of Mt Carmel Primary School) Sun 3 Aug Hendra State School 150th Anniversary Celebrations Sat 30 Aug Jindalee State School Fete

Sun 31 Aug Hendra Spring Fair (Our Lady Help of Christians School) Sun 31 Aug St Dympna’s Fair (Aspley) Sat 13 Sep Calvary Carnival (Calvary Christian College Springwood Campus) Sat 13 Sep Bulimba State School Fete - A Fair on Oxford

Left handed?

Mothers who are over 40 at the time of a child’s birth are 128% more likely to have a left-handed baby than a woman in her 20s.

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

It’s a cat’s life

Cats spend, on average 1/3 of their awake time cleaning themselves.

Families News

Finally! Financial Advice Tailored to Your

Family’s

Specific Needs With the passing of June 30 we all start preparing for our annual visit to the accountant or tax agent. This time each year we are reminded of how much we have earned in the previous 12 months and also of something that can often be a little confronting- how little we have saved (and conversely how much we have spent). If you have made no further progress with your savings than this same time last year it is time to take stock and get back on track. Whether it requires a restructure of your existing loan, consolidation of toxic consumer debts such as credit cards or personal loans or finally jumping into the investment property world, the team at Swift Finance Solutions can help. Being a small family owned business with two children, they pride themselves on their understanding and appreciation of the costs & challenges associated with raising a family. No need to feel overwhelmed or despondent, your situation is most likely just the ‘norm’.

They will gladly meet you at a time convenient whether that be a weekend or evening for an obligation free consultation and assessment. 0410 323 321 josh@swiftfinance.com.au

Did You Know?

You can park at Southbank for $5!

Families Magazine – Brisbane is on Facebook Here at Families Magazine we run an intelligent Facebook page that not only offers Brisbane people the chance to find out about local events and news for families across Brisbane, but also to have your say on matters that mean something to you. We don’t just talk on our Facebook page – we listen. Recently we posted a question on our Facebook page and were blown away at how people responded.

Here’s what we asked: In a social experiment earlier this year two little girls acted alone and lost in a busy shopping centre. In one hour, over 600 people walked past without stopping and one pensioner stopped and asked one of the girls if she was waiting for someone. What do you think you would have done?

What would YOU have done? And how would you have answered this? Join our Facebook community to have your say on parenting matters, read what others say and stay informed across Brisbane. See you there! www.Facebook.com/FamiliesMagazine

It’s on the nose You see your nose at all times, your brain just chooses to ignore it!

You can take the kids, a picnic, things to BBQ and anything else you need for a fun lunchtime trip to Southbank and only pay $5 for parking. This parking offer is available Monday through Friday. To take advantage of it, all you need to do is enter the South Bank car park after 11:30am and make sure you exit before 2:30pm. Why not use it to take advantage of the free activities at the Southbank Kids Club? www.visitbrisbane.com.au/South-Bank

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

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Parenting

Helping your child > with handwriting

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or effective handwriting a person needs to develop their fine motor skills and motor control. A variety of activities that require body in space awareness, dexterity, manipulation and finger isolation will help in this development.

Bottom well back in chair Hip and knee at approximately 90˚ (make sure chair seat not

creating a lot of pressure on the back of the legs)

Rest forearm comfortably on the table (no shoulder elevation or

slouching over desk)

Paper/Book Position

A guide for desk to chair height

Paper/book positioned so that writing done from the midline of

the body.

1 - Person seated at desk bend elbow into fully flexed position;

Page slanted at an angle - lower midline corner closest to

the body.

Hold head away from the paper Stabilise paper with non-dominant hand

2 - Bring other hand across body and place middle and index fingers against forearm at base of elbow, see diagram

Holding the Pencil Hold the pencil between the thumb and index finger and rest

on the middle finger.

Fingers should be approximately 2-3 cm from the pencil. (Use a rubber band or other mark around pen/pencil to indicate finger position if person holds pencil too close to the tip) Use a pen/pencil with a larger barrel to encourage a better grip initially or if person has a weak grasp.

3 - top of index finger is appropriate desk height

Seated Position Feet supported i.e. flat on floor or foot rest (covered telephone

Use of pencil grips may also be of benefit.

books can be used for footrests)

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

Parenting Tripod grasp with open web space: The pencil is held with the tip of the thumb and index finger and rests against the side of the third finger.

The thumb and index finger form a circle.

(We refer to these as "Go Fingers").

The ring and little finger rest in the palm and are called the "stop fingers".

Quadrupod grasp with open web space: The pencil is held with the tip of the thumb, index finger, and third finger and rests against the side of the fourth finger.

The thumb and index finger form a circle.

Other Considerations Desk should contain only those items required for the writing

task at hand.

Position desk within the classroom to enable student to see and

hear the teacher without undue effort.

If person is distractible, position at the front of the room facing

the front.

Length of time engaged in writing task should be gradually

increased.

Intersperse any written work (including drawing) with short

rest periods - (relaxation exercises include:- having the person clench and relax hands, wiggle fingers, shake hands, roll shoulders for-ward and backward, up and down and slowly bring head forward with chin on chest then slowly extend head backwards.)

Some Helpful Hints If pressing too heavily when writing - try writing on different

surface textures including foam and balloons.

If holding the pencil too lightly - try increasing the size of the

pen barrel (different size foam rubber tubing is available)

If holding pencil too tightly - try pens with textured grip

support or use a foam “grab on” grip

If holding pencil too close to the tip, place some tape or a

rubber band on pencil at correct position. This provides tactile feed-back to child of where fingers should be placed.

If bending over work or bringing face close to work surface,

Adaptive tripod grasp: The pencil is held between the index and third fingers with the tips of the thumb and index finger on the pencil. The pencil rests against the side of the third finger near its end.

trial a slope desk or board. Degree of slope can be altered to suit individual. Ensure work surface to large enough for comfort and stability.

Warm up exercises Stand, pushing whole hands down onto the desk several times

so taking weight through hands like push-ups

Give hands a vigorous rub until they feel warm and tingly Get Clancy Crab to do his push-ups so all fingers push into table Push thumb tips into each finger tip of the same hand Give fingers a massage and a shake

Written by Tracey Langton. Visit www.letstalk.org.au or contact them on 3891 9111 for more information.

We know how to feed your child’s creativity.

For more than 30 years Young Conservatorium has been making music and musicians, helping children to develop their love of music and creative ability.

An integral part of Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University we provide a developmental conduit for young musicians in the community; from Early Childhood Music through to graduating into Conservatorium studies, or a life that has been enriched with music. Applications for 2015 are now open.

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• Supporting children with language and communication difficulties.

To find out more, call (07) 3735 6247; email young-conservatorium@griffith.edu.au or visit www.griffith.edu.au/music/young-conservatorium.

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

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Family Health

Anxiety in childhood The nature of anxieties and fears tend to change as children grow.

How can a parent recognise that their child has anxiety?

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal human response to stressful, unfamiliar or dangerous situations. It refers to a state of uneasiness, fear or worry. Anxiety is often helpful, as it protects us and enhances our performance under stress. For example, a fear of fire will protect a child from getting burnt, and anxiety before a running race can lead to peak performance. All children experience anxiety and fearfulness from time to time, and in most cases it is transient or short-lived.

However, when anxiety becomes too intense, frequent, or occurs at inappropriate times, it is extremely distressing and sometimes disabling. As children have many developmental tasks to achieve, it is important to ensure that anxiety does not interfere with them leading a normal life. If it is, then it may be time to seek help.

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

There are three main systems of anxiety, the physiological system (the body), behavioural system (what we do), and cognitive system (thoughts). Physiological symptoms include muscle tension, faster breathing and heart rate, headaches, feeling hot and sweaty, nausea and tummy-aches. Anxious behaviours tend to be aimed at avoiding a feared situation. For example, your child may become more clingy, distractible or impulsive, seek reassurance, stall, or may throw a tantrum. Children are not always able to put their thoughts into words, so it can be difficult to know exactly what is going through your child's mind.

Some common anxiety disorders in children include: Separation anxiety - fear of being apart from care-givers. The fear may become so intense that the child refuses any separations, like school or sleep overs.

Generalised anxiety - excessive worry about numerous areas of life, e.g. school, health, family issues. The worry may be so intense it leads to general physical tension, difficulty sleeping and issues such as nausea and diarrhoea.

Family Health Social phobia - fear of social situations, due to being overly concerned about the judgements that other people may be making, and worry about doing something embarrassing.

Specific phobia - fear of a particular thing (e.g. dogs) or type of situation (e.g. small spaces).

Panic attacks - A panic attack occurs when many physical anxiety symptoms are experienced along with catastrophic thoughts like "I'm going crazy" or "I'm dying". It can be thought of as a fear of fear.

The nature of anxieties and fears tend to change as children grow.

Babies may be fearful of strangers and loud sounds, whereas toddlers are likely to experience separation anxiety. Pre-schoolers and early primary school children may be scared of the dark and fear supernatural things like ghosts or monsters, whereas in later childhood/adolescence, children may fear the possibility of real situations such as poor school performance, becoming sick/injured, or of natural disasters. Some fears may naturally disappear as your child grows, some becoming replaced by another fear.

"Anxiety tends to be contagious, so it is important to stay calm yourself when your child is upset…"

What causes anxiety problems in children?

A combination of factors are known to cause anxiety. It tends to run in families, can sometimes be learnt (for example, through watching others or through receiving accidental rewards for anxiety), or may occur in response to a traumatic event. Children who have a shy temperament are more prone to developing difficulties with anxiety.

What can parents do to help a child with anxiety issues?

Anxiety tends to be contagious, so it is important to stay calm yourself when your child is upset, and to be a good role model about how you manage your own anxiety. Empathise with your child about how they are feeling: even if the fear seems trivial, it is real to your child, and it is crucial not to belittle it. However it is equally important not to cater to the fears as this will only help them grow. Instead, provide gentle encouragement to approach feared situations, which may be best done in a gradual, step-by-step way.

Assisting your child to cope with uncertainty is a very important skill, and often more helpful than providing reassurance when your child is entering an unfamiliar situation. You can also help your child reduce physiological symptoms of anxiety through deep breathing, relaxation, or doing a calming activity, and can help your child identify helpful thoughts and self-talk like "I can do it", "I will be ok".

If you are concerned that your child's anxiety is holding them back from doing the things they want to do, getting adequate sleep, making friends, or participating in school, it is wise to seek professional help. Anxiety disorders are the most common of all mental health complaints, and are very treatable. It may be helpful to speak with your child's school guidance officer, and your GP/ paediatrician can assist you with a referral to a psychologist or other mental health clinician.

Dr Angela Randell Senior Psychologist Child and Youth Mental Health Service Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

For more information: • www.kidshelp.com.au • www.anxietybc.com • www.headspace.org.au • www.braveonline.psy.uq.edu.au

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F /GoodFairies Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

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Family Health

Itchy and Scratchy: A Guide to Common Schoolyard Infections Common schoolyard infections include Impetigo (school sores), threadworms, and head lice. Contracting these infections is not a sign of poor hygiene or poor parenting; it’s just a common part of normal childhood.

We spoke with A/Prof David Coman; Medical Director of Paediatrics at The Wesley Hospital to get more information about these common schoolyard infections, what to look out for and how to treat them.

 Impetigo 'School Sores'

2. Signs and symptoms

3. Treatment

1. General Information

The sores usually develop under the nose and on the face, but can also occur on the arms and legs. The sores usually start as itchy red blisters which then burst leaving red and weeping skin. This area usually ten becomes covered with a yellow “honey” colored crust.

Impetigo responds well to a range of treatments, but it’s important for the child to be seen by a Medical Doctor.

Impetigo is a highly infectious skin infection that is more commonly referred to a “school sores”. It is most commonly cause by one of two bacteria, staphylococcus aureus or group , β-haemolytic streptococcus.

These bacteria can normally live on the skin, in the throat or nose, or on other parts of the body without causing a problem but sometimes they start to cause an infection such as impetigo. Impetigo can occur on healthy skin, or on skin already “broken skin” e.g. due to a scratch or an insect bite.

Impetigo is more common in the summer months.

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Most children find Impetigo to be itchy; scratching these lesions helps spread the infection to other parts of the body and to other children. This is especially important as the sore fluid and the crust of the sores contain the bacteria.

The sores usually develop 1-3 days after exposure to the infection, and is infectious as long as it’s weeping.

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

Wipe the crusts off the sores, and use adhesive dressings to stop the child scratching the sores. Antibiotics are usually needed and may take the form of topical antibiotics (ie applied to the sores), and oral antibiotics. It’s not uncommon that the Medical Doctor will need to prescribe a course of antibiotic ointment delivered into the child’s nostril. The bacteria that cause impetigo often live in the nostrils, and children have a habit of picking their nose, making it easier to spread the infection.

Family Health Your child is no longer infectious after the crusts are removed and the sores stop weeping, usually this is 24 hours after treatment has begun. Impetigo is very infectious.

 Threadworms 1. General Information Threadworms are long slender roundworms, which commonly cause infections in school aged children and amongst families. They live in the lower intestine, but move to the buttock region in the early hours of the morning to lay their eggs. This creates an annoying itch.

Threadworms are spread by children scratching their bottoms and carrying the worm eggs on their hands which are then transferred to other children’s mouths via general day to day childhood interactions and play.

2. Signs and Symptoms Threadworm infection is not a serious medical problem, but it can create a very annoying itchy bottom, especially at night, which can interrupt the child’s normal sleep patterns.

3. Treatment Your Medical Doctor will be able to advise the best treatment, but usually medications such as Pyrantel (Combantrin) and Mebendazole (Banworm) are highly effective. It is generally advisable to treat all family members at the same time as threadworms can be very easily spread.

Medical advice should be sought before giving these medications to a child under 2 years of age and to a pregnant mother.

 Head Lice and Nits 1. General Information Head lice and nits are very common. They are unpleasant, but not a serious health risk.

Head lice are very small, wingless insects, about the size of a sesame seed. They live on the scalp of human heads where they feed by sucking human blood. They cannot fly or jump so the only means of catching head lice is by direct contact. Nits are the eggs laid by the head lice. Nits stick to individual hairs, close to the scalp. They remain attached to the hair even after the eggs have hatched.

Head lice are not related to hygiene – they live on all types of hair and all sorts of people. Head lice cannot live on cats, dogs, other pets or carpets or bed linen. They can only survive for a short time away from the human scalp, so catching them from hats or other clothing is very unlikely.

2. Signs and Symptoms Itching and scratching is an indicator but not a sure sign of head lice. The best places to look for head lice and nits are close to the scalp, behind the ears and at the back of the neck. The best way of finding (and removing) head lice is by putting hair conditioner on to hair, combing though with a fine-toothed head lice comb, then wiping this on paper towel.

3. Treatment Head lice are easy to treat and don’t necessarily need a visit to your Medical Doctor. Safe chemical head lice treatments are available from chemists, head lice shampoos may need to be repeated weekly until the lice completely disappear.

Never use other insecticides, pesticides, or kerosene as they are ineffective and unsafe.

Useful links: www.raisingchildren.net.au www.abc.net.au/health/library

A/Prof David Coman MBBS MPhil FRACP Medical Director of Paediatrics, The Wesley Hospital Academic Lead for Paediatrics, United Care Health Clinical School

Ph 0733715122 www.drdavidcoman.com.au www.facebook.com/DrComan

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

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Education News Zoe STEAMS ahead Stuartholme School together with Clearing Skies hosted a three day intensive Residential for gifted and talented students in Years 5 to 7. The program focused on learning in STEAM areas: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths.

“What makes this program special is that it provides an opportunity for gifted and talented students to learn alongside those of similar abilities and interests,” Director of Clearing Skies and STEAM Residential Manager, Michele Juratowitch said. “The students taking part are able to work up to two years above their current schooling

grade.” The Residential was held from Sunday 6 July to Wednesday 9 July and over 47 girls attended from all around Queensland.

Zoe Hawker travelled over 4 hours from Goondiwindi to come to the Residential.

“I was excited to come to Stuartholme and meet other girls like me but was also a little nervous about what it would be like to be in a big city,” Zoe said.

Acting Principal at Stuartholme, Andree Rice said Stuartholme recognises the importance of encouraging gifted and talented students to understand and utilise their unique abilities. “Opportunities for enrichment and extension are provided to students through individual curriculum programmes, extracurricular programmes, competitions and special events,” Andree said.

To learn more about Stuartholme’s Academic Enrichment Programme, visit www.stuartholme.com

A roaring win for ‘Lollipop Lyn’ celebrates 30 years of safer Loreto Lions champion school road crossings

Brisbane Schools & Education

Rebecca Marshall has proven that self-worth and respect can be achievable for every female adolescent. The inspirational 17-yearold Loreto College leader blitzed the field of Queensland’s top youth public speakers to take out the title of the 2014 State Winner of the Lions Youth of the Year Quest. The Year 12 student adds her name to the honourable list of high profile former Quest entrants, including former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Throughout the competition Rebecca impressed the judges with her dedicated community service, leadership skills and, most notably, her prepared speech on Social Media, highlighting the objectification of women and the need for increased self-worth and self-respect among young females.

“Being part of the Quest has been a privilege and an enriching experience for me. While my confidence and public speaking skills have improved, I have also enjoyed listening to the various opinions of my peers,” said Rebecca. Rebecca credits the Quest for giving teenagers the opportunity to learn from skilled professionals. “Young people do not often have the opportunity to speak in front of an audience of 1500 attentive listeners, I am grateful for this experience. The rigorous interviewing process has also given me life skills and increased my confidence to converse with people succinctly and intelligently.”

To find out more about Loreto College visit their website. www.loreto.qld.edu.au

Brisbane school children are celebrating three decades of safer road crossings, with the first school crossing supervisor introduced 30 years ago. 255 schools adopted the School Crossing Supervisor program when it was first launched and there are now 1,210 crossings, staffed by over 1,900 supervisors at 652 Queensland schools.

Lyn Ashford, of Nashville State School in Brighton, affectionately referred to as ‘Lollipop Lyn’ has been supervising the crossing and seen her children and grandchildren attend the school. Working 13 ½ hours a fortnight with only 4 weeks off in 30 years Lyn says she has made many friends including staff, parents and fellow workers.

Since the scheme has been operating, not a single fatality has occurred at any supervised crossing. Lyn says ‘knowing you are helping the children get to and from school safely makes you feel great. It’s why I’ve been here so long!’We here at Families Magazine – Brisbane would like to publically thank and congratulate the many school crossing supervisors who have dedicated their time to keep our children safe. Our February/March ‘Back to School’ Issue in 2015 will have an article about driving and parking safely in school zones… keep an eye out for it!

School spirit in action Prep students at Brisbane Boys’ College (BBC) had yet another taste of what it means to be a BBC boy with the presentation of their Crusade badges by the College’s senior leaders. Each year, as part of building relationships across the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools, BBC’s Year 12 leaders create a theme to motivate the school community and a badge is the perfect way to continually remind boys of the theme chosen. BBC encourages a strong bond between all year levels and age groups and this is just part of this relationship bonding.

In 2014 “Crusade” is the theme, which recognises the potential for success across the whole school, with the entire cohort

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

working together to achieve greatness.

The theme was celebrated with a special morning tea and the Prep boys had photos taken with the Highlander and also heard that well-known College war cry.

For School Captain Edward Zhou, it’s a perfect theme for the College in 2014. “This year, we will, together with our fellow peers, take the College to new heights as we walk the path of the Crusade.”

To find out more about Brisbane Boys College visit their website www.bbc.qld.edu.au

School Open Days

Moreton Bay College (Manly West) Fri 1 Aug www.mbc.qld.edu.au Cannon Hill Anglican College (Cannon Hill) Fri 1 Aug www.chac.qld.edu.au St James College (Brisbane) Fri 1 Aug www.stjamescollege.qld.edu.au Brisbane Girls Grammar School (Brisbane) Fri 1 Aug www.bggs.qld.edu.au

Seton College (Mt Gravatt East) Tues 5 Aug www.seton.qld.edu.au

Calvary Christian College (Carbrook) Fri 15 Aug www.calvarycc.qld.edu.au

Hillbrook Anglican School (Enoggera) Thurs 7 Aug www.hillbrook.qld.edu.au

Ormiston College (Ormiston) Sat 16 Aug www.ormiston.qld.edu.au

Moreton Bay Boy’s College (Manly West) Fri 8 Aug www.mbbc.qld.edu.au

St Patrick’s College (Shorncliffe) Tue 19 Aug www.stpatricks.qld.edu.au

Brisbane Boy’s College (Toowong) Fri 8 & Fri 22 Aug www.bbc.qld.edu.au

Prince of Peace Lutheran College (Everton Park) Thurs 21 Aug www.princeofpeace.qld.edu.au

Mary Mackillop College (Nundah) Sun 10 Aug www.mmc.qld.edu.au Loreto College (Coorparoo) Sun 10 Aug www.loreto.qld.edu.au San Sisto College (Carina) Mon 11 Aug www.sansisto.qld.edu.au

Brisbane Grammar School (Brisbane) Sat 23 Aug www.brisbanegrammar.com Iona College (Wynnum West) Mon 25 Aug www.iona.qld.edu.au Citipointe Christian College (Carindale) Thurs 28 Aug www.brisbane.coc.edu.au

Music Industry College (Fortitude Valley) Sat 2 Aug www.mic.org.au

St Joseph’s Nudgee College (Boondall) Tues 12 Aug www.nudgee.com

Brigidine College (Indooroopilly) Mon 4 & Tues 5 Aug www.brigidine.qld.edu.au

St Margaret’s Anglican Girl’s School (Ascot) Tue 12 Aug www.stmargarets.qld.edu.au

St Peters Lutheran College (Indooroopilly) Tues 5 Aug www.stpeters.qld.edu.au

Clayfield College (Clayfield) Thurs 14 Aug www.clayfield.qld.edu.au

Clairvaux MacKillop College (Mt Gravatt) Fri 29 Aug www.cvxmck.edu.au

Calvary Christian College (Springwood) Thurs 14 Aug www.calvarycc.qld.edu.au

St John’s Anglican College (Forest Lake) Sat 30 Aug www.stjohnsanglicancollege.com.au

St Eugene College (Burpengary) Tues 5 Aug www.steugene.qld.edu.au

Faith Lutheran College Junior School (Victoria Point) Thurs 28 Aug www.faithlutheran.qld.edu.au

Brisbane Schools & Education

August School Open Days

Discover where every child matters...

• Co-educational Prep to Year 6 • Values incorporated into everyday life • School-wide ICT program with 1:1 iPad program for Years 5 and 6 • Diverse music and drama opportunities • Committed staff with a passion for teaching • Seamless transition into Grace Lutheran College

Take advantage and contact Alana Johnson, Enrolments & Marketing Officer 07 3886 2677 enrolments@livingfaith.qld.edu.au

www.livingfaith.qld.edu.au Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

13

Education

I L VE MY School because…

We asked the students at four Brisbane primary schools what they each loved about their school. Here is what they said:

Bounty Boulevard State School

Mount Ommaney Special School

Brisbane Schools & Education

www.lanchesterphotography.com

… I like my Located in North Lakes, Bounty Boulevard State School is defined by Learning, Love and Laughter.

school because I feed myself lunch.

Adela

… I have lots of friends and my mum helps me at

… I like my

home by trying to make learning new things fun!

Miss 6

… I enjoy doing art and playing with my friends.

Miss 6

… I love learning about science and I like my teacher and all my friends go there.

Master 6

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PREP TO YEAR 6 FOR 2015

Whatever their potential, we help them reach it!

WE OFFER FAMILIES: • Strong academic programs • Quality teaching teams • Safe & nurturing Christian environment • 1-1 Laptop program Years 5 & 6 • State-of-the-art teaching technology & resources • Diverse range of extra-curricular programs • All inclusive fee structure • Outside School Hours Care

Tours available by appointment. Please contact our Enrolments Officer.

Ph: 07 3283 0011 • www.graceprimary.qld.edu.au • 38 Maine Road, Clontarf Q 4019

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Located in the Centenary suburbs, Mount Ommaney Special School campus provides educational programs for learners with disabilities from birth through to their graduation from formal schooling.

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

school because I can sing.

Berenice

… I like my school because I can act out stories.

Charlie

Education

Situated in the western suburbs of Brisbane, Indooroopilly State School is a highly multicultural school proud to have children from more than 40 international backgrounds.

… we possess the qualities honesty, optimism,

nurturing, organization and respect. It’s not just the students; the teachers possess the qualities too! The teachers here can help you with almost anything!

Laras A

… of its fantastic extension programs like

Extension Maths and Future Problem Solving. They help to expand young minds in mathematics and English. Other activities at my school include playing an instrument in orchestra and band which helps to teach students the properties of music.

Imogen E

… it has a lot of great facilities such as the large

heated 25m pool, the big book-filled Library and the lovely instrument-filled Music Room. The school also has some great programs like the IASC (Indooroopilly After School Care) which helps a lot of families out with their pickup routines. The school also has lots of other fun Academic and Sporting programs.

Flynn C

Corinda State School

C – Consideration, S – Safe and Smart, T – Try our Best, A – Appreciation, R – Respect

Located 10 km south-west of the Brisbane CBD, Corinda State School caters for each individual child providing an extensive range of academic, sporting, music and social development programs.

…the teachers are very kind and help you when

you need help. I am happy to be at Corinda State School and coming to school to use the C-STAR. I love to wear the uniform every day. I love coming to school and learning. Molly Yr 4

…the CSTAR’s help us to be our best.

Learning at school is fun and enjoyable, I think it’s great!

Teachers are great too, they help me if I have trouble and make me able to learn. The school has great resources and I have fun all the time. Morgan Yr 4

…the teachers and students are nice.

I like how colourful our gardens are and our nice uniforms.

Anna Yr 4

Brisbane Schools & Education

Indooroopilly State School

…of the pretty flowers in the gardens.

I like the kind teachers and the beautiful uniforms. Gemma Yr 2

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

15

Education

ACCELERATION

Let us fly!

Fourth in a series of educational parenting articles on ‘Raising Bright Sparks’. How acceleration doesn’t mean ‘pushing’ our brightest kids, instead it can be thought of as ‘releasing the brakes’.

Brisbane Schools & Education

C

hildren learn and develop at different rates and have different learning patterns and achieve at different rates. Those who achieve developmental milestones ahead of others at a similar chronological age are advanced in their development. Children who learn rapidly and grasp concepts more easily than others of their age are cognitively advanced or accelerated learners. Despite these differences, a child’s date of birth is used to determine when a child can enter formal education so children who have different rates of learning are placed together in school, according to their chronological age.

This results in children with a wide range of abilities and skills being placed together in classes as students are not usually placed in year levels according to their stage of development, learning abilities or academic skills. Teachers may

use ability grouping to allow students with similar levels of academic skills to benefit from learning together. This strategy works very well for most students; however some very capable students have the ability to learn beyond the level that the rest of the students in their class are learning.

For students to remain engaged in school they must learn at a pace and level that is well matched to their intellectual abilities and academic needs.

Some students are already beyond the curriculum for that year level and they need opportunities to learn with students who are learning at a similar level. Gifted students have the ability to learn at an accelerated pace and need exposure to more advanced curriculum. Some of these students should be considered for one of the many forms of academic acceleration, including subject and year level acceleration.

Schools are becoming aware of extensive research that supports the use of academic acceleration as one of the most effective ways of providing for the intellectual, academic, social and emotional needs of gifted students.

Despite this research, there is still much hesitancy about accelerating students.

School administrators, teachers and parents may be reluctant to accelerate because of concerns about a student’s social and emotional maturity. It is important to consider the gifted student’s development and needs as part of any decision to accelerate; however the social and emotional characteristics associated with giftedness (especially sensitivity, intensity and the need to socialise with others at a similar developmental level) may be misinterpreted as emotional immaturity or social difficulties, especially by those unfamiliar with the traits of gifted students.

Brigidine College WE HELP WITH ALL SENSORY, LEARNING, MOTOR AND DEVELOPMENT ISSUES Clinics at Yeerongpilly and Albany Creek

Tel: 1300 136 596 www.kidsmatters.com.au 16

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

Indooroopilly

Strength and Gentleness Join us for Visitation Day 4/5 Aug and 27/28 Oct 9.30 - 10.30am (07) 3870 7225 www.brigidine.qld.edu.au

A Catholic Girls' Secondary College

Education

Another way to think about acceleration is that the use of this educational strategy allows a student to make progress through school according to their own speed of learning, without being hindered. Academic acceleration effectively releases the brakes that age-based grouping imposes on gifted learners. It was this paradigm shift regarding academic acceleration that influenced the choice of the title for the research report about Australian

acceleration practices, Releasing the Brakes for High-Ability Learners.

Research that has examined acceleration is unequivocal: acceleration is a highly effective intervention strategy for gifted students. Acceleration is not the only way to provide for gifted students; nor is acceleration suitable for every gifted child; however acceleration should be included as one of the provisions available for gifted students. Any decision to accelerate a student should be based on sound evidence, made after careful consultation, with collaboration between home and school and always, with consideration for the needs of the student.

The research is clear: acceleration works. To ensure that a particular form of acceleration is the optimum way to meet a gifted student’s needs, it is important to consider if acceleration it is the best option for this student; at this time; in this context. Emeritus Professor Miraca Gross, Director of the Gifted Education, Research Resource and Information Centre (GERRIC)

at the University of New South Wales and co-author of both reports mentioned here, maintains that when considering and implementing acceleration, we should “hasten slowly”. It is important not to delay in considering acceleration as an option for gifted students; however decisions about acceleration should be made with care and based upon sound knowledge about giftedness and the research about acceleration.

Michele Juratowitch is Director of Clearing Skies, provides counselling for gifted students of all ages and their parents. She provides advocacy and consultancy in schools; professional development for teachers; programs for students and workshops for parents.

Michele was awarded a Churchill Fellowship, is co-author of Releasing the Brakes for High-Ability Learners and Make a Twist: Curriculum differentiation for gifted students.

E: michele@clearingskies.com.au W: www.clearingskies.com.au P: 3378 0888

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

Brisbane Schools & Education

Perhaps part of the difficulty with this intervention for high ability students lies around the use of the term “accelerate”.

There is a tendency to think of this word in relation to driving a car. When the accelerator pedal is pushed, it makes the car go faster. Teachers and parents of gifted children (particularly those who are already concerned about being perceived as “pushy parents”) may regard academic acceleration as equivalent to pushing a child to move faster through school. Let’s be perfectly clear about this: academic acceleration does not involve pushing a child to go faster.

17

Education

Building Capacity Not Dependency in Children "It's not what you do for your children, but what you have taught them to do for themselves, that will make them successful human beings." Ann Landers.

Brisbane Schools & Education 18

hand, and experience and learning on the other, has shifted. We have become more concerned at the ‘destination’; the good marks and the social standing, rather than the journey. Have we as a consequence become overwhelmed by fear of failure? Have we ultimately given up experience and long-term learning, for short-term achievement and a place on the podium?

It is symptomatic of our modern society that parents are increasingly taking on responsibility for their children’s actions. Not only does this result in a lack of resilience and self-reliance in young people, but there is also a growing body of research linking the relationship between parental control and lack of deep learning. This natural nurturing of the young by adults has become, in some cases, overprotection and it limits and stifles their growth, independence and creativity. So, how can something so central to parenting have come to this?

Good parenting, like good education, provides for a caring, ‘secure base’ and a ‘safe haven’ from which children can grow; as well as opportunities that may mean facing risks and disappointments. It involves allowing young people the time to move from being a novice to becoming an expert. In allowing this we encourage our children to make mistakes, put these mistakes into perspective, and try something different next time. It’s what psychologist Angela Duckworth calls “Grit”, and is fundamental to learning and growth.

It seems that the balance between performance and achievement on the one

Duckworth based her idea on Mattie Ross, the 14-year-old protagonist of True Grit, the

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

1968 novel by Charles Portis, and the film True Grit, with John Wayne.

Duckworth explains “It is really about this young girl, who against all odds, pursues a very long-term, almost impossible goal and eventually, eventually - with the emphasis on “eventually” - succeeds in that goal”.

Duckworth’s research connects non-cognitive skills, like self-control, to school success. “Grit” captures something educators recognise, but had not named or tried to teach. She has developed the Grit Scale for children, which identifies qualities like diligence, hard work, sustained effort, and the ability to focus on a goal without getting discouraged by setbacks.

“Grit”, though, is context specific. “By definition, you cannot be gritty at everything.” says Duckworth.

You can take the “Grit” test at www.sas.upenn.edu/~duckwort/ Another researcher and writer, Dr Carol Dweck, has applied this idea to learning. In

Education

In the world of the ‘fixed mindset’, getting a bad result on an exam is about failure. Why get involved in something that is going to make me look bad or show me as a loser? However, in the world of the ‘growth mindset’, getting a bad result is not about being smart or dumb or a loser; it is about effort. How hard did I try on the exam? Was I realistic about how much study I needed to do? What am I going to do next time to improve? Although people may differ in talents, aptitudes, interests and temperaments, the ‘growth mindset’ encourages us to see that everyone can grow and change through application and experience.

It is easy to see how this belief (that certain desired qualities can be developed over time) creates a passion for learning. Why hide deficiencies when we can work on overcoming them? Why seek out the safe and known instead of experiences that will stretch and challenge

us to do better? The desire to stretch ourselves and stick at an activity, even when it is getting difficult or not going well, is the hallmark of the ‘growth mindset’. This encourages us to thrive during some of the most challenging times of our lives!

Parents, according to Dweck, play a key role in helping children develop a ‘growth mindset’. Often, parents think they can hand children permanent confidence, like a gift, by praising their brains and talent.

This however, can backfire as children can doubt themselves as soon as something gets hard or goes wrong. The best gift we can give our children is to teach them to love challenges, be intrigued by mistakes, enjoy effort and keep on learning. This way, children won’t be slaves of praise, but masters of their own burgeoning sense of confidence.

We all have a role to play in developing young people. Parents and schools need to work together to achieve the best possible environment in which children can, and do, grow.

Geoff Newton, Principal, Hillbrook Anglican School (Co-Educational Yr 7-12) Hillbrook In Action Open Day 7 August 2014

CATHOLIC BOYS’ SCHOOL IN KEDRON Educating boys from Years 5 -12

Brisbane Schools & Education

her book, Mindset (2006), Dweck makes a compelling case for how the attitude we hold has a profound influence on our lives. Dweck points to two different mindsets; a ‘fixed mindset’ where we view our talents and temperament as determined at birth, and a ‘growth mindset’, where we view our basic qualities as elements that can be cultivated through our own efforts.

Now accepting enrolments for 2016

enrolments@padua.qld.edu.au

www.padua.qld.edu.au Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

19

Education

Early to bed – Early to Rise…

Sleep and our older children W e all know the saying ‘Early to bed, early to rise, makes us healthy, wealthy and wise’ but how many of us apply the theory to our older children and teenagers as well as our babies and toddlers? The staff of San Sisto College in Carina passionately believe in supporting the well-being of young people and write for us about the essential need for sleep in older children.

Brisbane Schools & Education 20

One challenge today’s young people face is chronic tiredness. The effects for older children and young adults can include inattentiveness and lowered work productivity, memory impairment, emotional regulation difficulties, and increases in susceptibility to illness. Whilst it can be difficult to monitor your child’s sleep, it is important it does not ‘fall off the radar’ as children grow older. We know that sleep is the single most important factor when children are young, but as they grow parents may relax sleep routines. Interestingly, most parents tend to overestimate their older children’s sleep time until they investigate further.

Most primary school kids need 10 – 12 hours’ sleep a night and on average, teenagers require 8.5 – 9.5 hours of sleep a night to function optimally. Whilst research suggests the average adolescent sleeps approximately 7.5 hours on a school night it also shows that 25% of older children and teenagers sleep approximately 6.5 hours or less. Setting boundaries and limits around bedtime can help both parents and older children to make sleep a priority again.

Parents can ensure wellbeing of their older children by: Ensuring that ALL electronic devices are turned off at least 30 minutes before bedtime. These devices emit a light which tells our brain it is day time, affecting the production of a chemical in our brain called

melatonin. Asking your child to “hand in” their technology at a set time and removing the technology from their room each night can assist to set boundaries for sleep time.

Monitoring caffeine and sugar intake, particularly 3 hours before bedtime. Caffeine and sugar intake can affect sleep patterns for teens as well as adults.

Avoiding afternoon naps. It is surprising how many students snooze on arriving home in the afternoon, which can delay sleep onset when it is time for bed. As a result, they struggle to wake-up the next morning, becoming tired easily during the day, leading to another nap in the afternoon … and the cycle continues.

Encouraging students to study or use laptops in a “work zone” (e.g., at their desk or at a table), rather than on their bed. Beds should only be used for sleeping and relaxing, using the bed as a place of study can signal to the brain that the bed is an awake zone.

Encouraging a regular bedtime routine, for example, close off technology, shower, have something to eat or drink, quite reading, listening to music and then lights off. A night routine helps calm the body and mind and signals to the brain it is sleep time, helping to develop a shorter period of time between lights out and sleep.

Looking at bedroom hygiene, including bedding, lights, clutter, and noise. If possible, try to create a quiet and calming sleep environment, where a lamp may be used to lower light in preparation for sleep.

For more help with understanding sleep routines, Sleep Shack is a personalised sleep treatment program for students and is available online - www.sleepshack.com.au.

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

Remember all children, like all people are different and some will require more than the ‘average’ sleep requirements and some less.

As a guide, The Sleep Health Foundation has these averages for sleep requirements: Age Groups

Total Sleep

Newborns (0–2mths)

12-18hrs

Infants (2–12mths)

14-15hrs

Toddlers (1–3yrs)

12-15hrs

Preschool (3–5yrs)

11-13hrs

School-Age (5-12yrs)

10-12hrs

Teenagers (12-18yrs)

8.5-9.5hrs

Adults 18+

7-9 hrs

Source: www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au

Learning and wellbeing are intrinsically linked and it was for this reason that the principal at San Sisto College in Carina established the WELL (Wellbeing: Enhanced Life and Learning) as a centre for wellbeing in 2012.

The WELL takes a holistic approach, employing staff from a variety of disciplines including a school psychologist, social worker, organisational therapist, careers advisor, physical enrichment coordinator, massage therapist, campus minister, and Indigenous support worker and pastoral worker.

Staff at the WELL complement and assist the role of parents at home and believe there are many areas in which parents can be vigilant in supporting the wellbeing of their children. www.sansisto.qld.edu.au

Brisbane Schools & Education Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

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Education

FOUR TOP TIPS For Creating Effective Homework Strategies

Parents often feel overwhelmed by the demands of homework and study for their upper primary and secondary school students. Here are a few simple tips from Mathematics teacher, Eduard Rabin from Brigidine College Indooroopilly. temptations of social media are sometimes just too strong. If at all possible, keep computers in a public space and mobile phones and ipods etc away from where homework is done.

Tip 3: Be organised Tip 1: Create the Space

Brisbane Schools & Education

While parents should not do the homework for their child, they need to be involved in their study. Try setting-up a public homework space, e.g. kitchen, where it is easy for you to be present. Be involved by giving mini vocab tests, proof-reading an essay or getting your child to teach you. D’Souza found that “Learners retain approximately 90% of what they learn when they teach someone else.” (2010) So asking your child to explain some aspect of their work is helping them learn and understand it to a deeper level!

If your family prefers homework to be done in the bedroom provide ample desk space to spread books out and a comfortable, upright chair. Keep the door open to the room that is used. There are no ‘secrets’ in homework so there is no need to hide away! Encourage the effort your child is making.

Tip 2: Remove e-distractions Teachers don’t want parents to lock away the laptops and computers! BUT it can be hard enough just trying to complete homework itself, let alone managing a social life at the same time. That’s why it is wise to limit the use of technology to times when it is necessary. The

Be organised! A school student’s most important book for school – A Student Diary. It is an organisational tool! All homework details must be noted in the diary for every subject, every school day. (The mantra is E S E S D). And when it’s finished – tick it off. This gives enormous satisfaction to all – student, parent and teacher.

Most Student Diaries have a notes page.

Keeping each other in-the-loop is important so please use this or any other means your school provides.

Tip 4: Develop Good Habits Set aside a consistent time of day to do homework and stick to that time as much as possible. Once entrenched, habits are not easily changed so make homework a good habit that’s hard to break.

The following is a general guide as to the duration of homework/assignment time at each year level: Year 7-8: 60 mins; Year 9-10:1-2 hours; Years 11-12: 2-3 hours each school day.

This will build during exam times. If there is still time left over, students can take the opportunity to do revision or study.

Ipswich Art Gallery

Controlled Falling Project

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

Here are just a few suggestions: Re-read the chapter covered in class and/or read ahead, take notes and have questions ready Memorize new and important material ie., formulas or vocab Complete extra reading on the topic currently under study Do extra questions from the ‘challenge’ section of a text Borrow different texts and try other questions on the same topic being covered in class In early secondary years, practise 'mental maths' daily. Hide the calculators! Challenge your child with the times table or addition and subtraction of small numbers.

It’s that easy…

Teachers know that students who have done their homework in a stable environment, without distractions, in an organised manner with parent involvement, and who have strived to develop good habits, are BY FAR the most engaged learners.

Consolidating the day’s work means that the student will get much more out of the next lesson, and the one after that. These four top tips will benefit students not only during their time in high school but also with further study.

Eduard Raben, B Ed. Mathematics Teacher, Brigidine College Indooroopilly and father of three

Brisbane Schools & Education Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

23

Education

Entering High School:

5 Keys to success As our Year 6’s & 7’s gear up to move into secondary school, it’s crucial that we consider how to support them and ensure that this ‘double cohort’ are prepared for the road ahead.

Dr Gigi Sutton from Sort, Organise, Support shares her suggestions.

Brisbane Schools & Education

1. Consider your child in a broad context Many schools have an increasingly sophisticated orientation program. A large part of this process is aimed at helping students and parents understand “how things are done here”. Expectations are set, policies outlined and resources highlighted. However as parents, we all bring to the table our own set of values. You need to be aware of how these fit with the school. Set your child up

for success as defined by your family. This value set will be reflected in your choice of school but there is not always a perfect fit.

Remember that the school and family form a partnership, each having their own roles, values, responsibilities and zone of influence.

TIP: Be open and respectful in your communication with the school and be prepared to negotiate boundaries to reflect your value system.

2. Identify available resources Many students find that the challenge of first year high school is not subject content

but process: Organising time; managing competing commitments; adopting new technology; and responding to both continuous and summative assessment.

Children need help to organise and they need time to establish new habits – 66 days on average*. Students and parents need to get to know and make use of key middle school staff and resources. Students can attend subject tutorials, submit draft copy, request clarification on assessment tasks, get help with timetabling, and meet with pastoral care staff. You may want to consider supplementing school resources with outside help from a professional organiser, tutor, coach and counsellor - as required. Consider how your own skill set can be best utilised

Imagen8

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

Education

TIP: Choose who is best positioned to work alongside your child to setup a timetable and diary that includes chores, study times, extracurricular activities, rest and recreation.

3. Foster mental preparedness The key characteristics of mental preparedness are; self-belief, motivation, focus and composure. In order for your child to thrive at school they need to develop a sense of their own strengths and emerging skills, their unique qualities or personal spark, and self-confidence comprised of both a general sense of their ability to cope with what life throws at them (resilience) and the confidence that comes from a comparison between their competencies and goals.

Motivation and focus are in part driven by our underlying personality traits but can be greatly enhanced through setting specific, measurable goals and monitoring progress towards them.

TIP: Children are very good at recognising skill and strengths in others. Encourage them to recognise their own by learning how to accept compliments, talking about their school day, sharing their successes and reframing “failure” as practice so that they learn to talk about it, take reasonable risks, be creative and see future possibilities.

4. Set and negotiate realistic goals and expectations Goals provide short term motivation and long term vision for adult and child alike.

They help students to organise their time and keep them focused and committed.

Personal goals guide behaviour, actions and choices. Importantly, goal setting helps students to measure their success, take pride in their achievements, build confidence from developing skills and in so doing improve their experience of high school.

As parents we need to guide our children through this process and be realistic as we negotiate expectations about participation in household, community, academic, work, recreational and sporting activities.

TIP: Encourage students to timetable all assessments, start early, submit drafts and make detailed corrections to their work in response to feedback.

TIP: Encourage your child to verbalise their interests, goals and ambitions. The best way to meet goals is to write them down and keep them in a visible location. Goals should be specific and measureable, both short term (enabling) and long term (vision setting).

Think about the underlying message!

5. Understand and work the system

I learn from everything I do

In high school the focus moves from one of participation to one of competition: the activity of striving to win by establishing superiority over others http://www. oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/ competition. The awarding of grades is necessary to compare the relative performance of students irrespective of whether or not the student chooses an OP eligible course of study.

High school students must learn how to read marking criteria and develop the skills to be able to respond deliberately to instructions e.g. compare and contrast, summarise, list, discuss, evaluate. They need to respond to the specific guidelines set by the marker. They are not in a position of power to negotiate the rules but they have a right to clarify them and ask for assistance.

UNHELPFUL Clichés You will be a small fish in a big pond High school years are the best years of your life The friends you make now will stay with you for life

HELPFUL Mantras I am grateful for…

I am my own unique self

Dr Gigi Sutton is a former Occupational Therapist, University Lecturer, and Researcher. She now provides organising support, through her company Sort Organise Support, to students; individuals and couples going through marital separation; and people moving into aged care.

You can find out more at her website www.sortorganisesupport.com.au or on 1800 002 062. *Lally, P., van Jaarsveld, C. H. M., Potts, H. W. W. and Wardle, J. (2010), How are habits formed: Modelling habit formation in the real world.

Eur. J. Soc. Psychol., 40: 998–1009.

Brisbane Schools & Education

to support your child’s learning, given your available time, your relationship with your child and your combined personalities.

For even MORE Families Fun Events visit our website www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Like us on Facebook to get after press updates on local events and activities!

You can find out more about Nashville State School’s gardens www.nashvilless.eq.edu.au

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

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Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory

Clubs, Classes & Activities for adults and children in the Greater Brisbane area

If you would like a listing for your club, class or activity in our next issue’s inclusive directory, please contact us now! Email: Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Compiled by Regina Gleeson NS = Northside SS = Southside

CLASSES FOR ADULTS Arts Tree (SS) Arts Tree offers 2 hour art classes and two day art workshops that are exciting, fun, and jam-packed with tips and techniques used by professional practicing artists. Their tutors give you the knowledge you need to keep making masterpieces at home. 0437 146 359 www. artstree.com.au Bleeding Heart (NS) Their arts and crafts workshops are conducted by some of Brisbane’s finest artisans to give you a hands on approach to learning your new skill. With many classes also providing the materials you need to start straight away, all you need to do is turn up and start creating! 07 3229 0395 www.bleedingheart.com.au Brisbane Sings (NS & SS) This site is a free community service which is building to be a comprehensive list of all singing groups in Brisbane and surrounding areas. It lists all types of singing groups including choirs, toning groups, barbershop, a cappella, sacred music, musical society, singing workshops and other singing groups - basically anywhere in this region where you can go to have a sing! www.spectrumfireworks.com.au/brissings Forum Communicators (NS & SS) Be a better speaker. Toss your speaking fears out the window and come along to Forum. You will improve your public speaking skills in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, and even enjoy yourself.

The WILL to become a confident speaker is all you need, the time to join is now. (07)3266 3521 www.forumcommunicators.asn.au Mad Dance House (NS & SS) Offering over 120 classes a week in a stack of different styles - there is a class for you at Mad Dance House. Dance classes on offer are: Hip Hop, Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Popping, Locking, Tap, Hip Hop in Heels, Lyrical Hip Hop, Girly Style Street Jazz, Urban Contemporary, Commercial Jazz and fitness classes. No need to book- just rock up 10-15 mins before the start of your chosen class. 07 3210 6724 www.maddance.com.au Men’s Shed (NS & SS) An organization that is accessible to all men and whose primary activity is the provision of a safe and friendly environment where men are able to work on meaningful projects at their own pace in their own time in the company of other men. A major objective is to advance the well-being and health of their male members. 1300 550 009 www.mensshed.org Stork, Baby and You (SS) They welcome you to attend a fun, informative day of antenatal education on the preparation towards birth & parenthood where they empower women and partners with knowledge and understanding to achieve a positive birth and parenting experience. 0411 854 443 www.antenatalclasses.com.au The Actors Workshop (SS) Supplying nationally recognised training pathways to school leavers and mature age students seeking dedicated vocational training as a Film, Television and Theatre Actor. 07 3891 1411 www.theactorsworkshop.com.au

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UQ Sport (SS) The UQ Aquatic Centre provides one of the most comprehensive and largest adult swim programs in Brisbane. Their AUSTSWIM or Swim Australia qualified instructors can tailor each class to individual requirements to suit your needs. 07 3365 6047 www.uqsport.com.au

Paediatric First Aid Courses Injury prevention and first aid instruction (NS & SS) Recommended for pregnant couples, parents, grandparents, babysitters and other carers of children, this 4.5hr programme includes an in depth injury prevention talk followed by practical paediatric first aid including CPR for babies and toddlers. Kidsafe QLD 3854 1829 www.kidsafeqld.com.au Kids First Aid (NS & SS) They offer the only first aid courses delivered exclusively by experienced paramedics, designed to teach parents and caregivers how to respond calmly and confidently to 10 of the most common first aid emergencies situations. 1300 138 133 www.kidsfirstaid.com.au St John Ambulance Queensland (NS) This course is designed to meet the first aid needs of parents, guardians and members of the public who may be entrusted with the care of babies and children up to 12 years of age. This course provides the knowledge and skills to manage everyday emergency situations. 1300 360 455 www.stjohn.org.au

CLASSES FOR CHILDREN ARTS & CRAFT & COOKING Brisbane Institute of Art (NS) These classes aim to encourage in children an appreciation of the aesthetic experience and personal symbolic language. Each term will focus on a particular media, so that during the year children will be exposed to a variety of mediums. 07 3857 5377 www.brisart.org Fox Blocks (NS) Fox Blocks is an innovative creative construction programme that uses a variety of materials such as Lego, Duplo, K’nex, and Fischertechnik, as well as everyday objects. There are 4 different age levels for children from 3.5 years to Grade 7. Each term has a different theme, and each class builds new proficiencies. 07 3855 1528 www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au KindyArt (SS) offers fun and educational art classes for 2-5 year olds. Each art activity is based around a children’s book that is read at the beginning of each class. Your little artist will get their hands on many arty materials and experiment with a range of art techniques. Come along for a trial class! 0412591755  kim.kindyart@gmail.com. www.facebook.com/ kimsKindyArt Miart (SS) Each child at Miart Brisbane is given guidance catered to their needs and interests as well as freedom and encouragement to express and develop their unique creativity. 0438193624 www.miart.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

Renaissance Kids (NS & SS) Renaissance Kids offers all types of art lessons for children aged 5 years to 12 years. For students serious about improving their skills or just wanting to get a fun introduction to their creative side, Renaissance Kids is the perfect place. 0404 847 684 www.renaissancekids.com.au Tania’s Arthouse (SS) Tania runs weekly classes for ages 6 to 11 and for ages 11 and upwards. Projects for kids may include drawing, printmaking, mosaic activities, painting, clay modelling, painting on glass, and taking photographs and using the pictures for additional activities. 0422 497 627 www.taniasarthouse.com Tiny Art (SS) Art classes for 2-5 year olds introduce children to the world of art through the engagement of media, tools and techniques, such as: painting, printing, sculpture, drawing, collage, textiles and clay. 0421 844 508 www.tinyart.com.au ZoomArt for Kids (NS) Art classes for children in a fun and friendly environment. 6 different age levels of classes for children from 2 years to Grade 12. The ZoomArt program is designed for the intentional development of the child’s skills, observations, thinking, and experiences in the visual arts. 07 3855 1528 www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au

Cooking Classes Cutie Pies Baking School (SS) Does your little one love to be creative in the kitchen? Cutie Pies Baking School is where your child can mix, knead, roll, ice and decorate his or her own yummy creations! Have all the fun and leave the mess! 0426967055 www.cutiepiesbakingschool.com Yummilicious Cookery (SS) love food, cooking and the social interaction that comes with it. Their mission is to bring children together in a safe, nurtured, fun and happy environment where they can learn about real food and cultivate the joy of cooking and mindful eating. 0421 327 187 www.yummilicious.com.au

LANGUAGE & BABY DEVELOPMENT AlphaTykes (NS & SS) They teach French, Spanish or Italian to children between 18 months and 12 years. Lessons run from 30 minutes (under 3 yrs) to 45 minutes (over 3 yrs). 1300 61 22 88 www.alphatykes.com.au Conversations On (SS) Engaging English, Japanese, Chinese, German, Spanish or French Classes. Small classes (maximum 6). They also help your baby communicate earlier and give them a bright future with baby sign language classes. 07 3871 2882 www.conversationson.com.au LCF Fun Languages (SS) Designed over 25 years, their methodology teaches French, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, English and German with a fun and active approach that will get your child using the language quickly and naturally. 1300 707 288 www.lcfclubs.com.au

Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory Studio China (SS) Calling all children ready for some great, fun brain stimulation. Learn Mandarin by moving to music, singing, reciting poems, reading stories, playing games, drawing and writing Chinese characters. 0401 575 005 www.studiochina.com.au

Sign Language

Chipmunks Playland & Café (NS & SS) Visit Chipmunks for unlimited play for kids aged 0 – 11 years old and relax over a coffee or lunch with friends and family at their café in one of their 3 Brisbane locations. They feature state of the art equipment and are fully air-conditioned, clean and comfortable. They also have party facilities. www.chipmunks.com.au

Baby Sensory Hawthorne (SS) They use a combination of original and traditional songs and rhymes to develop early communication skills and you will always remember the moment your baby first uses the signs of their Say Hello song which is played at the beginning of each Baby Sensory class. 07 3399 2004 www.babysensory.com/au

Game On Family Fun Centre (NS) If your children feel like a game of glow in the dark mini-golf, lasertag, a ride on their animals or electric cars visit Game On Family Fun Centre. Parents can sit and enjoy a delicious meal and coffee and watch their kids have an awesome time on their play structure. (07) 3014 0322 www.gameonfamilyfuncentre.com.au

Deaf Services Queensland (SS) Baby Sign is designed for parents to learn basic Auslan key word signs for babies and children who are hearing or deaf, between two months and five years of age. Infants naturally use smiling, cooing, and crying and movement to communicate their needs and feelings so it is rather common for babies to use their hands to communicate long before they can speak. 07 3892 8500 www.deafservicesqld.org.au

Lollipop’s Playland & Café (NS &SS) Are great kids party venues for or simply giving kids a treat while parents relax over a cup of hot coffee and a treat from their quality cafe. Their indoor play centres are safe and secure where kids can have hours of fun climbing, sliding, jumping and spinning. 4 Brisbane locations. www.lollipopsplayland.com.au

Baby Massage Baby Buddah (SS) By being a part of their infant massage workshop, parents will discover more options in helping to reduce their baby’s crying time and increase their sleeping patterns as well as many more benefits. 0410 363 447 www.babybuddah.com.au Be In Blossom (NS) Mummy pilates & baby massage. They offer 4 one hour Pilates classes held weekly to regain abdominal support, pelvic floor strength & posture. Baby massage is included. 0488 001 105 www.beinblossom.com.au Massage Babies, Birth & Beyond (NS & SS) You will learn about and experience beautiful oils for your baby. Colic strokes and baby yoga. Relaxation techniques for mums and bubs. 0407 592 238 www.mbbb.com.au Sweet Dreams Infant Massage (SS) A variety of group classes are held in Camp Hill. Classes are also held privately in the client’s home either on a one-on-one basis or as a group (e.g. group of friends, mothers group) 0422 607 863 www.sweetdreamsinfantmassage.com.au The Nurturing Connection (NS) Learning infant massage could not be easier. You will be guided through each stroke carefully until you are confident in communicating your love through touch. In addition you will learn to relax yourself and create a serene and nurturing environment in which your baby will thrive. 0409 614467 www.nurturingconnection.com.au

ACTIVITY CENTRES Bounce Inc (SS) They believe everyone wants to fly though the air and bounce off the walls. So they have created Bounce Inc – a massive indoor trampoline universe packed with lots of high octane, extreme, fun things to do. 1300 000 540 www.bounceinc.com.au

Tiddlywinks Dance & Play Café (NS) Tiddlywinks Dance and Play Cafe is a family owned and operated entertainment venue, providing a unique dance and play experience for children up to 11 years old. They also have dance programmes and party facilities. 07 3266 8484 www.tiddlywinks.com.au We Play (SS) are the best family fun centres in Australia, offering entertainment, games and activities for children of all ages, facilities for corporate events and parties for children and adults alike. Our locations offer a huge soft play structure, exciting ball and laser games, mini-golf, ride-on cars and a gourmet cafe, all in a fully airconditioned, clean and safe environment. www.weplay4fun.com.au

MUSIC Boppin’ Babies (NS &SS) Boppin’ Babies is a music therapy program for newborn babies up to 5 years.

Sessions run for 30 minutes. 0430 591 532 www.boppinbabies.com.au Do-Re-Me (NS & SS) Do re mi children’s music classes offer enjoyable, educational music classes for children, including babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, aged 3 months to 8 years and beyond, and has classes available throughout Brisbane. www.do-re-mi.com.au Forte School of Music (NS & SS) They offer their Jungle Music program for children aged 6 months to 3.5, which immerse the child in interactive classes which encourage understanding and responding to music. They can continue their musical experience in introductory piano courses, Music is Fun, Junior Keys and Piano Keys. Free trial class. 07 3357 5556 www.fortemusic.com.au Gymboree (NS & SS) Award winning children’s Play & Learn Gym, Music & Art classes for 0-5yrs.

Designed by experts, the age-appropriate activities help develop the cognitive, physical and social skills of children as they play. The programs are also recognized for their unique approach to parent involvement—which encourages

participation in and understanding of each child’s development. Free trial available. 07 3878 2468 www.gymboree.com.au Kindermusik at Flying Fox Studios (NS) Music and movement classes from newborn to 7 yrs.

Kindermusik classes encourage babies and children to develop language, social, emotional, and physical skills as well—all in the context of joyful, musically rich play! 07 3855 1528 www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au Music Masters (NS) This a sequential music program developed by Christine Masters. The classes are designed, not only to foster a child’s natural musical ability, but to extend them so that their musical education is fully developed. 07 3357 9646 www.musicmasters.com.au

Neighbourhood Crèche (NS) A creative environment for babies and children to learn and grow.

YMM: Yoga, Massage and Music. A lovely bonding class with your 6 week - 6 month old baby.

Bubs Music Class: A super fun music and movement class for kids under 2. Including instruments, puppets, bubbles, dancing, parachute games and more.

Tots Music Class: Fun and educational classes for children 2-4 years focusing on rhythms, music notations, playing instruments, group activities and more.

Keyboard Kids: Group classes of 4 children aged 4-6 years. Children have a great time learning to play basic keyboard, music, rhythms and singing.

Creche Childminding: Occasional care for children. (receipts for CCB/CCR available) 0423032591 www.facebook. com/NeighbourhoodCreche neighbourhoodcreche@hotmail.com Wee Make Music (NS & SS) classes are essential early development sessions where age appropriate activities using beat, rhythm, language and movement empower a love of music and learning in babies through pre-prep age children. So much fun and so beneficial for general cognitive, musical and social development. Free visit class for all.

Bulimba, New Farm, Wilston. www.weemakemusic.com.au 0434357764

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Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory  continued from page 27

Young Conservatorium (NS & SS) Young Conservatorium has been nurturing musical talent for over thirty years.

Operating under Open Conservatorium Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, Young Conservatorium is the program of choice for families seeking a pedagogically sound music education.

Applications are now open for 2015 Early Childhood Music, Young Beginner, Developing Musician and Senior Tuition (classical and contemporary); Wind, String, Chamber, Vocal and Symphonic Ensembles; and composition. Young Conservatorium is focussed on the quality of the learning experience and the pedagogy that underpins every aspect of a musician’s education.

For information regarding the 2015 program visit www.griffith.edu.au/music/youngconservatorium

SPORTS & EXERCISE Australian Parkour Association (NS & SS) A philosophy and method of movement through any environment with speed and efficiency. The concept is to overcome all physical and mental obstacles in your path by using your body and mind to run, climb, jump and vault. 1800 759 015 www.brisbaneparkour.com.au Baseball Queensland (NS & SS) For boys and girls of all ages. Their club competitions fall into the following age groups: Under 8 MighTee ball, U10 Rookie Ball, Little League (U12), Baseball - U14, U16 and U18. 07 3876 2222 www.qld.baseball.com.au Brisbane Basketball (NS & SS) Basketball is a noncontact sport and provides a safe and enjoyable opportunity for players of all age groups. 07 3371 0200 www.brisbane.basketball.net.au Brisbane Martial Arts (NS & SS) Whether Taekwondo, or Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is your preferred martial arts style, if you’re in Brisbane, and looking to start martial arts training, or take your training to the next level, there’s only one place to go, the home of martial arts in Brisbane, Brisbane Martial Arts! 1300 303 583 www.brisbanemartialarts.com.au Dynamight Kids (NS & SS) Dynamight Kids teaches safety, self-defence and life skills to children aged between 3-12 years. Lessons run for 30 minutes. 1300 61 22 88 www.dynamightkids.com.au Ginger Sport (NS & SS) Fun soccer programs for 2-10 year olds. Providing soccer coaching in an inclusive, play-based, learning environment with the perfect mix of fun, physical activity and instruction in soccer. Experienced coaches that work with all age groups and skill levels to provide a positive, nurturing and safe environment to learn soccer. Free trial available 07 3890 3338 www.gingersport.com.au Gymnastics Queensland (NS & SS) Gymnastics is one of the most fundamental and exciting of all physical activities. Basic gymnastic skills develop attributes that are perfect stepping stones for other sports, activities and life in general. 07 3036 5600 www.gymqld.org.au Gymboree (NS & SS) Award winning children’s Play & Learn Gym, Music & Art classes for 0-5yrs.

Designed by experts, the age-appropriate activities help develop the cognitive, physical and social skills of children as they play. The programs are also recognized for their unique approach to parent involvement—which encourages participation in and understanding of each child’s development. Free trial available. 07 3878 2468  www.gymboree.com.au Hockey Queensland (NS & SS) Since hockey is a team sport, children who play learn the value of working with others. They figure out how to rely

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on teammates and understand that cooperation is key to success. 07 3399 6577 www.hockeyqld.com.au Junior Golf Queensland (NS & SS) Golf is a great game for juniors/students/children as it is a healthy game that one can play for their whole life. Apart from providing the gift of a lifetime recreation, golf has special qualities that can have powerful and lasting impacts on young people’s self-image, personal development and confidence. 07 3252 8155 www.juniorgolfqueensland.org.au Life Stream (NS & SS) Life Stream facilitates a wide range of opportunities specifically in South East Queensland for people with an intellectual disability to participate, develop skills and be active members of their communities. Life Stream believes that through participation in community activities, recreation, leisure & sport and having friendships and responsibilities, people develop all types of skills and lead healthy, active and meaningful lives. 07 3394 4399 www.lifestream.org.au Little Athletics Queensland (NS & SS) Little Athletics is a uniquely Australian sport for children 5-16 years. As the name suggests, it is based upon the sport of athletics (track & field) and the events are specially modified to suit the ages and abilities of children. A wide range of running, jumping, throwing and walking events is conducted. 07 3255 9436 www.qlaa.asn.au Netball Queensland (NS & SS) For young children interested in playing netball for the first time, there is NetSetGo! This program is for children (girls and boys) aged 5-10 and is designed for teaching the basics of netball while fostering fun and friendship in a team environment. 07 3848 6330 www.netballq.org.au PCYC (NS & SS) Gym fun, kids dance, tiny tots, cheerleading, boxercise, teen yoga karate, tumble and stunt, glee club, circuit and gymnastics is just some of the activities at PCYCs. Please contact your local club to see what is on offer for you and your children. 07 3909 9555 www.pcyc.org.au Physi Kids (NS & SS) Their aim is to introduce your child to every aspect of physical development in a fun and encouraging environment. Your child will be introduced to soccer, tennis, afl, rugby league, hockey, cricket, basketball/netball, t-ball, gymnastics, athletics, yoga and music & movement. physikids.com.au Queensland Cricket (NS & SS) These days, cricket offers some new and exciting formats for kids that won’t take up your whole weekend – it’s no longer an all-day commitment for parents on the sidelines. To get started, kids can take part in the Milo in2Cricket program which is a fun way to get a taste of the sport. As their skills develop, they can transition into Milo T20 Blast and then on to club cricket to continue a lifelong connection with the game. 07 3292 3100 www.qldcricket.com.au Skipping Queensland (SS) Skipping is a very dynamic, exciting and exhilarating sport. It helps in the development of an individual’s fitness and co-ordination, and is used by a number of other sporting codes and athletes for aerobic fitness.

Competitive skipping takes the activity to the next level. www.skippingqueensland.com.au Tennis Queensland (NS & SS) Tennis Queensland Registration is automatically included when you join your local affiliated club as a member. This will also give you access to all the exclusive benefits that the club chooses to offer. Find a club near you. 07 3120 7900 www.tennis.com.au

Horseriding Cherbon Waters (SS) Cherbon Waters’ facilities include a new fully lit 60m x 20 indoor arena (with an undercover viewing area), riding trails, round yards, stabling area, wash bays, safe fullyelectrified paddocks. 0417 704 671 www.cherbonwaters.com.au Dalson Park Indoor Equestrian Centre (SS) Horse riding lessons are well priced and cover the use of Dalson Park ponies, tacked up by capable stable hands; the use of arenas, tack, saddles, helmet and boots if needed; and expert and encouraging instruction. The more lessons you book in a month, the more cost-effective lessons become. 0448 034 514 www.dalsonpark.com.au Heritage Riding (SS) It does not matter if you are a “first timer” or you are a current Junior Rider wanting to gain more competitive skills in

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

Dressage or Jumping. They have a Horse/Pony and Qualified Instructor that will suit your needs, and give you a safe, fun, and enjoyable experience. 07 3206 3951 www.heritageriding.com.au Indarra Equestrian Centre (SS) provides a safe riding environment with qualified, professional staff so you can enjoy your love of horses. You can choose either group (max 4 riders) or private lessons. Indarra also hold fun filled day and overnight camps during each school holidays 0409 475 040 www.indarraequestrian.com.au Kiah Park (SS) Offers 7 day horse riding farm stays for children ages 6yrs - teens every school holidays. Includes full accommodation and each child is given their own pony/horse to love, care for and ride twice a day. Includes full accommodation, arena lessons, horse care – grooming & tacking up, trail rides and gymkhana. Fun night activities include night walk, talent show, camp fire with stories and marshmallow roasting, bingo and movie night. Children stay with us for 7 nights and enjoy a healthy, happy week of outdoor fun! (07) 5486 6166 www.kiahpark.com.au Slickers Horse Riding (NS) Their lessons are conducted in either an enclosed yard or out on one of their trails depending on which the rider requires. 07 3285 1444 www.slickershorseriding.com Wattle Creek Riding School (NS) At Wattle Creek, they specialise in one on one lessons. This gives 100% of the Coach’s attention to the rider. This allows the experienced and inexperienced to work at their optimum pace. No riding experience is needed to start as they teach from the first riding lesson to the highly experienced rider. 07 3300 6422 www.wattlecreekridingschool.com.au Windsong Equestrian Park (SS) Their coaches conduct private lessons by appointment, in an all-weather surface ProRide arena. Their coaches are qualified level one instructors and are happy to cater for beginners or higher skill levels of all ages. www.windsongpark.com

Swimming Aquatic Achievers Swim Schools (NS & SS) Aquatic Achievers Swim Schools specialize in teaching babies through to stroke correction and squads. Their innovative Solo-1 teaching program advances skills in easy, achievable progressions.

The pinnacle of their SOLO-1 program is for children to swim One Kilometre unassisted. www.aquaticachievers.com.au Dipadees (NS) The have four programmes for babies from 4 months to children aged 18 years. 07 3355 1550 www.dipadees.com Sam Riley Swim Schools (NS & SS) Their team of dedicated, qualified and experienced instructors know the importance of balancing the professionalism required to teach your child to swim, whilst maintaining an element of enjoyment, so your child has fun while learning. 07 3050 7341 www.samrileyswimschools.com Shapland Swim Schools (NS & SS) Shapland Swim Schools teach semi private swimming lessons to children of all ages, including babies from 6 months. They teach a unique Swim in Five program in small classes with a maximum of three children. www.shapland.com.au Swim Australia (NS & SS) While swimming lessons may help to address safety issues, lessons will also continue to refine the strokes helping the child to become a safer more efficient swimmer, and of course lessons are a fun, healthy activity for children. 07 3376 0944 www.swimaustralia.org.au The Clem Jones Centre (SS) The Learn to Swim program focuses on water safety, water confidence and the development of all strokes while also emphasising on fun and excitement for both the child and parent. They cater from 6 months to adult classes’. 07 3398 2107 www.clemjonescentre.com.au North Lakes Aquatic Centre (NS) Concentrates in infant water familiarization, safety and personal development. Our swim program in conjunction with the Royal Life Saving Society caters for children from 6 months all the way through to Junior Squads. Our instructors pride themselves on bringing their wealth of experience, understanding and enthusiasm. (07) 3886 2022 www.northlakesac.com.au northlakes@ belgravialeisure.com.au

Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory Nudgee Brothers Swim Program (NS) The organisation aims for its swimmers to reach their potential by providing a coaching program that produces excellent results at state, national and international level. They have a range of programs for different swimming groups, from beginners to advanced, from infants to older swimmers. Their program operates all year round. 07 3865 0516 www.brothersswim.nudgee.com

Yoga Angel Yoga 4 Kids (NS) AYK Yoga classes teach children through asanas, yoga stories, yoga songs, yoga game’s, yoga art, yoga dance, visualisation, pranayama, relaxation & meditation techniques. 0412 564 757 www.angelyoga4kids.com.au Brisbane Yoga Space (NS & SS) Yoga is an invaluable tool of fun, learning, health and growth for kids and teens. Through yoga, young people can have fun while developing health, fitness and self-confidence. 0430 158 826 www.brisbaneyogaspace.com.au Calm For Kids Relaxation Classes (NS & SS) Calm for Kids hold yoga based relaxation classes for children throughout Australia. The Calm for Kids classes consist of balance, concentration and co-ordination exercises, breathing exercises and games, peer massage, children’s relaxation and visualisations and positive affirmations. 07 3343 3285 www.calmforkids.com.au Inner Bliss Yoga Studios (SS) Their Bliss kids yoga classes are a fantastic way for your child to enjoy the many benefits of yoga in fun and friendly environment. In each class, the instructor guides the children through an interactive & themed practice of song, movement, yoga poses, creativity, story-telling and relaxation. 07 3162 2188 www.innablissyoga.com.au Ten Toes Yoga & Natural Health (NS) Childhood is a time to explore the world around and for self-discovery. Children respond well to Kids Yoga Classes because Yoga gives them a chance to explore aspects of their bodies, minds and emotions in a fun and creative way. www.tentoes.com.au

THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS Brisbane Arts Theatre (NS) Their training enhances children’s performance skills and stagecraft knowledge with acting techniques, improvisation, voice (including singing – solo, chorus and harmonies) and movement training (theatre, dance and mime). 07 3369 2344 www.collegetheatrepractice.com.au Brisbane Youth Theatre (NS) Their theatre classes are adventurous and playful. Brisbane Youth Theatre provides an exciting and supportive environment for creating theatre and enhancing learning. 0404 220 465 www.brisbaneyouththeatre.com.au

Fame! School of Performing Arts (NS & SS) Performance based programs include training in dance, drama, and voice. They encourage students to develop skills in all these key areas. Courses are fun, innovative and provide excellent grounding to students interested in the performing arts. 07 3252 4806 www.fametheatre.com.au

Promenade Dance Studio (NS) They aim to inspire each student to realise his or her own potential.

Classes are available in Creative Movement (2 - 5 years of age), Ballet, Contemporary/Lyrical, Jazz, Tap, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop, Acrobatics and Singing. Visit their new studio at: Glentanna Street, Kedron 4031 0417 768 614 www.promenadedance.com.au

Shake and Stir Theatre Co (NS) Improve your child’s performance and communication skills, raise their self-confidence and increase their level of physical activity. 07 3358 6025 www.shakeandstir.com.au

Seriously Dance (SS) They truly believe their philosophy of respecting each student for their individuality & challenging each student to obtain personal excellence. 0416 477 703 www.seriouslydance.com

Stagecraft Acting School (NS & SS) Focus is on helping kids become happy, confident and successful people not just successful actors. They pride themselves in teaching kids the skills they need to become professional actors in the real world by making learning fun. 0417 118 006 www.actingacademy.com.au

Dance Attitude Dance Academy (NS) Attitude Dance Academy offers a safe, fun, learning environment where your child can study a variety of dance styles from highly experienced, professionally trained instructor 07 3349 0391 www.attitudedanceacademy.com.au Brisbane Academy of Dance (NS) A wide range of qualified teachers in all areas of dance. They all have an energetic approach to teaching and encourage students to achieve their personal best. (07)3356 5880 www.brisbaneacademyofdance.com.au Elite Dancers (NS) Their many different classes are structured to suit the needs of every dancer, whether you want to dance for a career or for fun and fitness. We have classes for ages 3 and above on a registered or casual basis. 0427 999 909 www.elitedancers.com.au Kick Dance (SS) Their aim is to offer structured programs in dance run by professional teachers with excellent qualifications and extensive industry experience. They provide classes which facilitate enjoyment, confidence, develop students at a very high technical level and allow a ‘kick’ start into the performing arts. 0414 308 248 www.kickdance.com.au Kinderballet (NS & SS) An Imaginative and creative introduction to Classical Ballet for toddler and pre-schoolers. They offer 'Mummy & Me' classes for 2 - 3 1/2 year old, 'Tots' classes for 3 1/2 - 5 year olds and 'Kiddies' classes for 4 - 5 year olds. 1300 6060949 www.kinderballet.com.au Movements Academy of Dance (NS) Movements is a well-established, friendly, family based studio that believes in teaching students to be all that they can be. They handpick their teachers who are qualified, encouraging & inspiring so that every student can have the very best dance education possible. 07 3886 4098 www.movementsdance.com.au

TUTORS & SCHOOL SUPPORT Aldon Tutoring Hawthorne (SS) Focuses on teaching the fundamentals and extension of literacy and numeracy, catering for all ages. They encourage children to achieve their full potential by developing: Call for a free assessment. 0409 696 424 hawthorne@aldontutoring.com.au www.aldontutoringhawthorne.com.au Fruition Tuition (NS & SS) They profile your child’s learning behaviour, discuss the findings with you, recommend a course of action and work out what can be done to meet the learning goals and fit with your family circumstances. They deliver learning courses that cover all areas of The Basics Mathematics and English Language development from prep to adult, including ESL. 1300 884 846 www.fruition.com.au Kip McGrath Education Centre (NS & SS) See your child really improve in maths and English.

Qualified teachers create individual tutoring programs for your child, using proven Kip McGrath methods of tuition. Maths, English, Reading, Spelling & Comprehension. 1300 789 457 www.kipmcgrath.com.au Kumon (NS & SS) The Kumon Method is an individualised learning method. The starting point for each Kumon student is determined individually.

Students start with the level where they can attain a perfect score by studying on their own. 1800 458 666 http://au.kumonglobal.com

If you would like a listing for your club, class or activity in our next issue’s inclusive directory, please contact us now! Email: Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au

enarji Health Coaching Specializing in Mothers Health & Wellbeing

Providing handmade and boutique clothing and accessories for your Princes & Princesses!

Specialising in custom made items such as: tutu’s and tutu dresses skirts, dresses, nappy covers, shorts, bloomers, harem pants, hats, applique singlets and tees, hair accessories.

Special Offer quote ‘Families Magazine’ to receive 10% off your first order koochooloohandmadeforlittleone@gmail.com www.facebook.com/koochooloohandmade

Come and reclaim your baby brain. Research shows that mothers who exercise forget less and enjoy more! Group sessions with like-minded mothers.

Classes using the enarjize Us Card start from $7.

Bracken Ridge, Eatons Hill, Albany Creek, Cashmere, Brendale

Call now and mention “Families Magazine – Brisbane” and you will receive a Sports Zip Wristband absolutely FREE at your first session!

enarji Health Coaching | 0421037444 | www.enarji.com.au Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

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Families Fun

Listings for everyone in every family!

For even more families fun visit our website’s event calendar which is updated daily!

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events

To promote your local family friendly event including school fetes and fairs, community groups, get-togethers and local festivals in the next ‘Families Fun’ listings (Oct/Nov 2014) send your entry by 5pm on Friday 22 August 2014. Email Regina – Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check the details of the events listed before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

AUGUST Throughout Aug & Sept Top Secret: Licence to Spy (South Brisbane) Are you ready to discover the secret world of spies and solve the mystery?

In Top Secret: Licence to Spy, act as a secret agent, uncovering facts and investigating leads to determine which of the suspects, if any, can be implicated in the crime. Make sure you get the most out of your visit by jumping on to our website and downloading our free 'Licensed to Spy' activity sheet suitable for children aged 6 -16. Sciencentre. www.sciencentre.qm.qld.gov.au Until Sun 10 Aug The Wizard of Oz (Redcliffe) Redcliffe Musical Theatre presents the enchanting and "technicolor" family classic, The Wizard of Oz, by special arrangement with TAMS Witmark. Playing at the Redcliffe Cultural Centre for a strictly limited season. Bookings essential. www.redcliffeculturalcentre.com.au Sat 2 Aug Circus Family Day Out (Victoria Point) Dress up as your favourite circus character and join us for a fun family morning of craft, games and stories at Victoria Point Library. 10 – 11am. FREE www.redland.qld.gov.au Sun 3 Aug Shoot for the Stars Pottery and Adventure Walk (Mt Coot-tha) Come along to this fun workshop to make some weird and wonderful aliens, asteroids and rockets from clay. Start by taking a walk on the Hide and Seek Children's Adventure Trail for fun and fitness. $5 per child, 2 – 4pm. Bookings essential. www.bazilgrumble.com.au Sun 3 Aug What’s Cooking in the Gardens (Redcliffe) Enjoy fabulous food, wine and market stalls; be inspired by top chefs; relax in the crochet lounge; check out the many plant, garden and environment group displays and colourful art and craft displays and demonstrations. Watch wandering minstrels and gypsies; get the kids painting, potting, baking and making at the many fun workshops on offer. Gold coin entry. 9am – 3pm. www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au Fri 8 – Sun 17 Aug Ekka (Bowen Hills) Queensland's largest and most loved annual event is almost here.

More than 400,000 people will come together at the 2014 Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) in Brisbane from August 8 to 17 to see the best of Queensland with more than 10,000 animals, 23,000 competition entries, a smorgasbord of award-winning food and wine and hours of free family entertainment. www.ekka.com.au

Families Fun is proudly sponsored by…

Sat 9 Aug The Gruffalo (Cleveland) Extra show at 3pm now on sale. See the magical musical adaptation of the award-winning picture book ‘The Gruffalo’ live on stage at Redland Performing Arts Centre. Whether their favourite food is roasted fox, owl ice cream, scrambled snake or Gruffalo crumble, children 3+ will eat up this delectable tale about the adventures of a clever little mouse. Tickets: $16-$18.

Bookings: 3829 8131 or www.rpac.com.au Sat 9 & 10 Aug Disney Fun Zone (South Bank) Disney Planes, Disney Princesses and Disney Cars – whatever the nature of your favourite Disney character, you and your family are in for a treat!

Disney’s most loveable brands are coming alive for an action-packed weekend at South Bank.

You can meet Lightning McQueen and Mack The Transporter from Disney Pixar’s Cars; learn to drive on their training track or experience the Finding Nemo cinema dome. Budding songsters can belt their hearts out at Frozen karaoke, slide down Lightning McQueen, bounce off Planes and run amok around the inflatable activity zones! Escape being serious for the day and bring the kids down for a truck-load of fun! FREE. www.visitsouthbank.com.au Sat 16 & 18 Aug Wombat Stew (Redcliffe) This simple story of a dingo who catches a wombat and decides to make gooey, brewy, yummy, chewy wombat stew, has been cleverly developed into a true-blue-dinky-di-Big Aussie Musical complete with bobs of mud, very fine emu feathers, creepy crawlies, fliesss, gumnuts and a Big bubbling billy can. With a cast of 6 multi-talented performers, Wombat Stew is a mouth-watering combination of story-telling, mime, music, dance and puppetry.

Bookings essential. www.redcliffeculturalcentre.com.au Sun 17 Aug Belayed Tree Climb (Holland Park) Climb a tree using pre placed hand holds whilst secured by a top rope belay. Closed in shoes eg. sports shoes or hiking boots, pants or shorts (ladies no skirts) must be worn. Safety brief given before session. C.B Mott Park 9am – 12pm. Bookings essential. FREE. www.treeclimbers.com.au Fri 22 – Mon 25 Aug DimensionsNC Art Festival (Boondall) The Nudgee College DimensionsNC Art Festival is held annually in August. The event is a cultural celebration showcasing artistic, musical and creative talent from members of our student body and the local community. Nudgee College. www.nudgee.com Sat 23 & Sun 24 Aug Parks Alive (Various) Hosted

by Roma Street Parklands. Explore the weekend celebration where parks come alive in Brisbane.

Wonder in amazement at our temporary art and lighting installations, pop-up café, expert walks or talks, kids' activities, or just lay back and enjoy some

The information contained in this publication and on our website and social media forums is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Families Magazine and its contributors as detailed on individual articles. While we endeavour to publish information that is up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the information, products, services, or related images contained in print, on our website or in our social media forums for any purpose. Information received via our publication or online should not be relied upon for personal, medical, legal or financial decisions. You should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice tailored to your need and situation.

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

music. Activities will also be held at South Bank, City Botanic Gardens and Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mt Coot-tha. FREE. www.brisbane.qld.gov.au Sat 23 & Sun 24 Aug Valley Fiesta (Fortitude Valley) Brisbane’s most loved annual street party is back, with a weekend celebration for the music-loving masses. This year’s Valley Fiesta takes place in and around the newly revitalised Brunswick Street Mall, with a huge two-day program that showcases Fortitude Valley as Brisbane’s premier music and cultural destination. Featuring Australian headline acts, local talent, food, fashion and more. 10am – 10pm. FREE. www.valleyfiesta.com

SEPTEMBER Tue 2 Sep Dora’s Pirate Adventure (New Farm) Join Dora and the rest of her friends in Dora’s Pirate Adventure as they embark on an exciting trip to Treasure Island in search of the ultimate pirate party. 2 shows – 10am & 1pm at the Powerhouse Theatre. Bookings essential. www.brisbanepowerhouse.org Sat 6 Sep Brisbane Astronomical Society Public Viewing Night (Mt Coot-tha) Go up to Mt Coottha lookout for free telescope viewing. Their club members will show you the spectacular mountain ranges and craters on the Moon, star clusters and planets. FREE. www.bas.asn.au Sat 6 – Fri 26 Aug Brisbane Airport Light Garden (South Bank) Brisbane Airport Light Garden returns with a brand new installation that is sure to have your cameras clicking. The brand new Brisbane Airport Light Garden is sure to set the perfect twinkling mood for a night out at South Bank. FREE. www.brisbanefestival.com.au Sat 6 – Sat 27 Aug Brisbane Festival (Various) Brisbane Festival is a world class arts festival that explodes onto the scene every September with an exciting program of music, theatre, dance, comedy, opera, circus and much more. Check the website for full programme. www.brisbanefestival.com.au Sat 6 & 7 Sep Redcliffe Kite Fest (Clontarf ) Redcliffe KiteFest is the biggest celebration of colour, culture and kites to take place in South-East Queensland.

Featuring a program bursting with fun for the whole family, event patrons both young and old will be enthralled with the entertainment and activities on offer. www.redcliffefestival.com.au Tue 23 Sep – 1 Nov The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents (Petrie Terrace) Maurice is a brilliant cat who has survived for years on the Discworld’s toughest streets. When he learns of talking rats and spots a kid playing the flute, he has a brilliant idea. Bookings essential. Brisbane Arts Theatre. www.artstheatre.com.au

We do not endorse contents or advertisers in our publication or on our web pages and will not responsible for any content of any linked site or any link contained in the link site. In no event shall we be liable for direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, consequential damages or any damages whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with the use of or performance of information, products, services or reliance on the contents of the advertisements.

All material including, but not limited to adverts, editorial, images and part thereof sent to Families Magazine remain the property of Families Magazine. All materials and personal details will be handled appropriately with respect to data protection laws. No material published by Families Magazine in print or online may be reproduce whatsoever without prior written consent.

Families Freebies

Families

for the whole family! s e i b e e Fr

Enter at www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au/competitions

Enter Online!

WIN a 3 Night Stay at the Gold Coast Nominate Your Favourite Teacher Families Magazine – Brisbane has teamed up with Beachside Surfers Paradise, Eye Candy Media and Daydream Parties to find Brisbane’s favourite primary school teacher this September.

Teachers are such an important part of children’s lives and we want to say thank you. The primary school teacher with the most entries receives a bunch of chocolate flowers and a $200 Dymocks Voucher.

We will also select one entry from ALL the readers that nominated a teacher (that’s you!) to win a 3 night stay at the beautiful and centrally located Beachside Holiday Apartments on the Gold Coast.

For competition terms and conditions and to enter visit our website’s competitions page and follow the instructions.

j 1 Teacher Prize Pack to win

j 3 Night Stay at Beachside Holiday Apartments to win

WIN a Family Pass (4 Tickets) to see ‘The Gruffalo’ live on stage

WIN a Pair of Lego Slippers Step IN Lego, not ON it!

on Saturday 9 August at 3pm

‘A mouse took a stroll through the deep, dark wood…’

Whether their favourite food is roasted fox, owl ice cream, scrambled snake or Gruffalo crumble, children will eat up this delectable tale about the adventures of a clever little mouse in a forest full of predators. Mouse can scare hungry animals away with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo, but what happens when she comes face to face with the very creature she imagined… Let your imagination run Illustration taken from THE wild with songs, laughs and fun for children aged 3 and GRUFFALO © Julia Donaldson and up (and their adults) when ‘The Gruffalo’ performs live Axel Scheffler (1999), published by on stage at Redland Performing Arts Centre, Cleveland Macmillan Children’s Books. on Saturday 9 August. CDP with Tall Stories’ magical musical adaptation of the award-winning picture book performs for one day only and tickets are selling fast… so an EXTRA SHOW at 3pm is now on sale! Tickets are $16-$18.

Bookings: 3829 8131 or www.rpac.com.au

We are giving away 2 pairs of Lego Slippers to two lucky winners this September. The slippers are ‘one size fits all’ and suitable for adults. We have one red pair and one blue pair.

You will need to nominate which colour you would prefer in the entry on our website.

j 2 Pairs of Lego Slippers to win

To enter count the number of ‘Gruffalos’ on our pages of this issue (August/September 2014) and visit our website to enter.

j 1 Family ticket (4 tickets) to win

UPCOMING ISSUES October/November 2014

TODDLERS & CHILDCARE Advertising deadline: Friday 22 August 2014 Families Magazine – Brisbane is made with love by Janine Mergler - Editor, Regina Gleeson – Listings Editor, Lisa Bibby – Designer, Jesse Stanger – Social Intelligence and Jayde Mihan – Web Designer @ www.eyecandymedia.com.au All rights are reserved.

December/January 2015

SUMMER DAYS OUT & Clubs, Classes & Activities Advertising deadline: Friday 31 October 2014

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 5 - August/September 2014

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