Families Magazine - Brisbane Issue 40 June/July 2020 by Families Magazine - Brisbane

Issue 40: June / July 2020 www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

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Whale Watching

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Gold Coast Holiday

QSO Family Pass

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A Time for Innovation “With this data, teachers have designed learning activities to support their use of digital technologies that promote student thinking,” she said. The school’s development of Effective Thinking Cultures – explicit instruction in adapting to unfamiliar situations and challenges – fits into this new digital reality. As BGS transitions back to the classroom, Ms Zervos said the evidence-based approach will continue to inform teaching and learning. “We have a wealth of valuable learning from this period and we are excited about our post-pandemic new and enhanced ‘normal’.” In addition, construction of the

School’s new Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) precinct – which will encourage collaboration across the Arts and Sciences – is scheduled to begin later this year. “Never has it been more important to have graduates skilled in critical and creative thinking,” Ms Zervos said. “BGS is investing boldly in infrastructure that will foster future innovators and problem solvers.”

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Brisbane Grammar School – a leader in innovative education – has found lessons in the COVID-19 crisis, emerging from home-based learning with new insight into teaching and learning. While moving 1700 students from its Spring Hill campus to digital home-based learning was a huge task, Executive Director of Educational Innovation Jacqui Zervos said BGS has met the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic head on. “From the very first week of home-learning back in Term 1, we’ve been asking our students how they are coping, and responding quickly to students to identify their wellbeing and academic needs,” Ms Zervos said.

JUNE / JULY 2020

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Families News Find out about local news for families

Welcome to the JuneI July issue of Families Magazine. While the Families Magazine team has been staying safe at home during the Coronavirus Pandemic, we have not been resting on our laurels. Nor have we been blessed with tonnes of free time so we can learn a new musical instrument… seriously, has any parent? Instead, like a lot of you, we have been helping our children learn at home, cooking (and eating?) far too much, bear spotting on our neighbourhood walks and learning how to Zoom like a pro! And we have all been balancing all of this with continuing with our normal workloads for the magazine! We have added lots of timely new content to our website, which now has a whole #stayathome section, as well as finding fabulous day trips and things to do within 50km to tell you about. Check them out! I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our advertisers who have been working with us in 2019 & 2020, and who have stood by us during this unprecedented time. As you flick through the pages of this issue, please do take note of the schools, businesses, and other organisations in here that are supporting our small, local business. Their support means that we can continue to provide relevant and timely content to you, and we are exceptionally grateful for their loyalty and confidence in us. If you are reading this online, all the links are clickable to online content. If you are reading this in print, go visit the links on the pages to get more information for your family… you will be glad you did!

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Education Book Week costume ideas

10-13

Parenting Indoor activities for kids with autism

14-19

Party Time Party providers and balloon games

20-23

Winter Day Trips Day trip to Tangalooma and walks with prams

24-27

Clubs, Classes & Activities Find a local club, class or activity

28-31

Competitions Heaps of fabulous prizes up for grabs!

Also – When do we find out who will be our kids teacher next year? I hope it’s not me again! Cover Photo: Hand-feeding a king parrot in the Bunya Mountains

Janine Mergler - Editor With grateful thanks to Simon and the team at Spot Productions for kindly producing this issue in print. 3860 5300; www.spotpro.com.au

Next issue August/September 2020 Deadline by 5pm on Friday 3 July 2020 DIGITAL & OFFSET PRINTING www.spotpro.com.au

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Families News

LOCAL FAMILIES NEWS

Looking for the latest local news and views? We’ve got it covered! Stay in Your PJs for National Pyjama Day! On Friday 17 July you are invited to stay in your pyjamas to raise vital funds for The Pyjama Foundation.

On the Road to Recovery Good news! We’ll soon be able to visit our favourite Brisbane venues and businesses again! The Queensland government has released its roadmap to a COVID-safe recovery, allowing more travel, more activities and larger gatherings. If everything goes to plan, we’ll be allowed gatherings of up to 20 people in homes and public spaces from June 12 – Happy Birthday winter babies! For the winter school holiday, Queenslanders will be able to drive and stay at accommodation up to 250kms away within QLD, with a further easing of restrictions planned for July 10. Well done QLD – we’re getting there! Find out more at www.covid19.qld.gov.au

For more than 15 years, The Pyjama Foundation has supported children in foster care, inspiring them with learning, life skills and confidence. National Pyjama Day is the Foundation’s biggest fundraising event of the year, with more than $250,000 raised to support this vital Program. By supporting National Pyjama Day, the life direction of many children in foster care has the potential to be changed forever. To get involved, registrations can be made via www. nationalpyjamaday.com with a free host kit sent to everyone planning their big day.

WHERE EVERY STUDENT LEARNS EVERY DAY Enrol now for 2021 and 2022 Prep - Year 12 stpeters.qld.edu.au/indooroopilly/enrol 4

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Families News

Bumper Competition Issue! We think our wonderful readers deserve a treat, and luckily our advertisers and local businesses agree! They have ‘come to the party’ with a host of amazing prizes on offer, including a Gold Coast getaway, family photography, toys and games, tickets to activities, and fabulous items for the home. Keep reading to find out what’s on offer and how to enter!

New Learning Centre for Logan City Special School Work has begun on a new learning centre for Logan City Special School, which caters for students from early childhood through to Year 12. The two-storey centre will include eight learning spaces, one therapy room, a staffroom, kitchens and a covered set-down area.

School Fun Run At Home! Families across the nation will raise heart rates and funds for Australian children living in poverty with the inaugural Home Fun Run held on Friday, June 12. School Fun Run is Australia’s largest fun run for schools and provides ongoing support for students and families by encouraging healthier lives and happier learning environments for all.

Logan City Special School Principal Rod Kirkland said “Having a mix of classroom-style and break-out areas will help us deliver flexible and tailored teaching and learning for our students, while the design also includes a covered set-down area to improve access for families when there’s rain about.” Construction is expected to be completed in time for the 2021 school year.

Families are encouraged to hold their Home Fun Run from Monday June 8 – Friday June 12. For more information and to register visit www.athomefunrun.com.au

PREP TO YEAR 12

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Education

Easy . . . k e e W k Boo

Book Week 2020 runs from August 22-28, and this year asks your children to embrace the theme “Curious Creatures, Wild Minds”. Curious Creatures, Wild Minds invokes thoughts of nature, jungles, sea creatures and dinosaurs, of imaginary and mythological animals, and of adventurers, explorers and scientists.

If you are stuck thinking of book week character ideas to fit this year’s theme, we’ve got plenty, along with some easy children’s book week costume ideas that you can put together yourself. Delve into our book week costume ideas and decide where book week will take your family: will your “curious creature” be found in the past, a fantasy land, under the waves, or perhaps even another universe? Or is your child keen to embrace their “wild mind” as a fabulous adventurer?

The Gruffalo What a strange and curious creature the Gruffalo is, invented by a little mouse who

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has no idea that the real Gruffalo is nearby! Primary and kindy children love the stories of The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child. To create your own simple Gruffalo costume, dress your child in brown trousers and long-sleeved shirt or hoodie, add big felt ears to a headband, and use face paint to create the fangs. Book inspiration: The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler

Education The BFG Roald Dahl’s beloved favourite, The BFG, is a both a curious creature and a wild mind. The BFG collects and gives good dreams to children and enlists the help of an orphan named Sophie and the Queen of England to rid the world of child-eating giants. This could be a simple DIY costume if you have some green (or khaki) trousers, a white t-shirt and a brown vest, with rolled-up cardboard to make the dream trumpet. Book inspiration: The BFG by Roald Dahl

Where the Wild Things Are This beautiful timeless classic has been a favourite for over fifty years. Where the Wild Things Are is a heart-warming story of a little boy sent to bed

without his supper, but his bedroom undergoes a mysterious transformation. Max finds himself sailing to an island where the Wild Things live, but instead of being eaten Max becomes their king. To make your own King Max costume, team a fluffy white onesie or tracksuit with a gold cardboard crown. Add big buttons down the front of the top, a faux fur trim to the crown, and attach a dark faux fur tail (or fluffy scarf!) if you have one. Draw on whiskers with face paint or eyeliner. Book inspiration: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Dora the Explorer Dora is a young Latina girl with a ‘wild mind’ for adventure. During her adventures, Dora is regularly faced with problems that she must solve with the help of her friends, Backpack, Map and Boots the Monkey, as well as having to deal with the infamous Swiper the Fox. Dora the Explorer is great idea if you are looking for an easy book week as you could probably make it work with what your child already has in their wardrobe. All you need is a pink t-shirt, a pair of orange shorts, a purple backpack (or the actual backpack), trainers and yellow frilly socks. If you don’t have these items, there are some great Dora the Explorer

book week costumes online. Book inspiration: Dora the Explorer by Nickelodeon

Go, Diego, Go! Just like his cousin Dora, Diego loves to go on adventures with his friend Baby Jaguar to see who he can help today! To make your own Diego costume, pair blue shorts with a light blue t-shirt, and add a beige overshirt with the sleeves removed. If you want to be more authentic with the badge and backpack, you can buy the complete Diego book week costume online. Book inspiration: Run, Run, Koala! by Nickelodeon

Monsters! We love monsters, and they are in books for all ages! From Sesame Street’s The Monster at the End of This Book, Sigel Adler’s You’re Not My Monster (a book to help children overcome fears), and Eat Pete by Michael Rex, these sometimes scary but ultimately friendly creatures bring fun and adventure into every life.

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Education The great thing about monster book week costumes is they can be as wild and crazy as your imagination! Grab scraps of ‘hairy’ or bright fabric from the off-cuts bin at your local fabric store and pin them into a ragtag haphazard cloak to create the monster of your dreams. For younger children, monsters are ideal toddler book week costumes – just see the number of monster board books available at your local library!

Pikachu With the Pokemon Go game app and the recent Detective Pikachu movie, Pokemon are enjoying a huge reviva. The Pokemon Adventures book series is suitable for ages 7-10 and read from right to left (back to front) in the Japanese style. To make your own Pikachu costume, carefully glue yellow felt fabric to a stiff cardboard zig-zag tail and attach felt-covered cardboard ears to a yellow headband. Wear them over a yellow long-sleeved t-shirt and trousers and use face paint to complete the look with rosy cheeks. Book inspiration: Pokemon Adventures by Hidenori Kusaka

How to Bee Bilbo Baggins The Hobbit, part of The Lord of the Rings series, was originally written for an older audience but there are many beautifully illustrated and graphic-novel versions available to tempt younger and advanced readers. If you have a fantasy loving child, create a Bilbo Baggins costume with tan coloured shorts, a green waistcoat vest over a white shirt, and a long red-brown cardigan. Book inspiration: The Hobbit by J R R Tolkien

More ideas!

How to Bee is a story about family, loyalty, kindness and bravery, set against an all-too-possible future where climate change has forever altered the way we live. Bees are extinct and children have to do their work pollinating the crops. It was the winner of the CBCA Book of the Year, Younger Readers, 2018 award. To make a bee costume, sew or glue bands of wide black ribbon around a yellow t-shirt – or yellow ribbon around a black t-shirt – and wear it with a black or yellow skirt or shorts. Create wings of white card on elastic straps to pull over the shoulders and add pipe-cleaner antennae to a yellow or black headband. Book inspiration: How to Bee by Bren MacDribble

There is no need to raid your local craft store and stay up until the early hours of the morning creating your child’s book week dress up costume. Check out the full article on our website for more “Curious Creatures, Wild Minds” costume ideas plus the links to buy ready-made costumes online. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/childrens-book-week-costume-ideas 8

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Prep at Ormiston College Where opportunity begins A wonderful journey of discovery commences in Prep. It is a world full of new experiences, new friendships, participation, investigation, experimentation and lots of fun. An opportunity for every child to shine! At Ormiston College, your child will thrive in an environment that is nurturing, safe and inspiring, allowing them to take on their dreams with confidence and compassion. Start your child’s learning journey at Ormiston College to set them on the pathway to future success.

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Parenting

Indoor Activities for Kids on the Autism Spectrum Dr Nicole Grant of Gateway Therapies has indoor activity ideas for kids on the autism spectrum that will help you plan your days and reduce your stress! Kids on the autism spectrum tend to thrive on structure and predictability. Weekends, holidays (and forced lockdowns due to unexpected pandemics) can be a time of stress as routine often goes out the window. Most kids love structure Many kids with autism do reasonably well coping with the demands of a school day as school is typically very structured, with minimal changes to the people or the environment. It’s very important, however, that we don’t try to replicate a classroom environment or try to recreate a typical school day for our kids. It’s just not going to be the same. It can’t be. So what’s the alternative?

Think about the things your child enjoys about their school day. Even better – ask them! You will probably find the following things on their list: • Having a desk or table that is just theirs, always in the same place • Knowing exactly what time breaks will occur • Being able to find the things they need exactly where they expect them to be • Quietness, or at the very least, predictable, ‘safe’ level of noise • Clear expectations from authority figures about what behaviour will be tolerated • Access to games/toys that can be played with repetitively • Access to favourite games/activities • Opportunity for creativity, messy play or construction play

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• Access to friends who can be played with for short amounts of time in predictable settings • Wearing the same thing every day • Seeing the same people every day – new people or unexpected visitors (even if familiar) can cause stress Once you identify the key things about school that work for your child you can think about how you might incorporate them into your new routine. The table on the right has some fabulous ideas for activities to try and how they might help. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/indooractivities-for-kids-on-the-spectrum www.gatewaytherapies.com.au

Parenting Here are some ideas for indoor activities and how you can adapt them to suit your child Activity

Why/how this might work

Lego kits, puzzles, construction kits, figurine painting kits.

Construction and repetitive play are often favourites for kids on the spectrum, particularly if there are instructions to follow. Set them up on their own table or desk.

Art projects – colour by numbers, dot to dots, cross stitch, diamond dots

Projects with clear instructions provide predictability. There is certainty about when the task has been completed. A concrete start/finish is often important to kids on the spectrum.

Kid-friendly computer games: Minecraft, Animal Crossing, Animal Jam, MarioKart and Mario Party.

Computer games are often a preferred activity but remember to set clear start/finish times, and make it clear from the outset how much time will be permitted.

Cooking

Great opportunity for messy, sensory play. Also predictable with a known outcome, precise measurements etc.

Watching YouTube videos that are informative e.g. how are things made.

Videos can be a preferred format for accessing information. Kids on the spectrum are often visual learners.

Scavenger hunt around the home (lots of ideas online, especially Pinterest).

Set a timer and see how many things can be found in a given time or ask them to find everything on the list (make sure they can!). If your child is a collector, as many children on the spectrum are, you can theme your scavenger hunt e.g. “Find all the Pokemon cards. I’ve hidden them around the house”.

Listen to Audiobooks

Most favourite books are available as audiobooks. Kids on the spectrum often have special interests and may enjoy hearing their favourite story read to them.

Make a den or fort out of soft furnishings

Many kids on the spectrum enjoy enclosed dark spaces. Sensory seekers can enjoy the many textures and the opportunity to jump all over unbreakables. Expect cushions will be used as crash mats!

Yoga

Find a Yoga for Kids video on YouTube - there are plenty. Yoga is calming for anxious bodies. A good kids yoga instructor will make sure it’s fun too.

Make a home video

Many kids on the spectrum (just kids in general really!) are very tech savvy. Modern phones often have an App for creating movies. This can be a great creative outlet for kids who like to view the world through a different lens.

Enrolments now open If your daughter is in Year 3, 4 or 5 Our Lady’s College is accepting enrolment applications. Visit www.ourladyscollege.qld.edu.au

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Parenting

The Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) has officially launched the biennial Growing Up in Queensland study. Children and young people from across the state are being encouraged to step up, speak out and make their voices heard. The lives of children and young people have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and in times of difficulty the voices of children and young people can often be the least heard. Giving our young people an opportunity to express their hopes, dreams and worries, so we hear and understand their experiences as they grow up in Queensland, is crucial. It highlights their needs, and amplifies their voices to our government, policy and decision makers, and business leaders. The QFCC’s Principal Commissioner Cheryl Vardon believes that while adults are keeping our community safe, it is important we make sure our children and young people are still heard. “By

listening and understanding the goals, ideas and worries of children and young people, leaders and decision makers can influence meaningful and sustained change,” Ms Vardon said. “Using the responses from young Queenslanders we can start to make decisions about the future and map out better ways to support them.” So, through surveys, postcards and art activities, Growing Up in Queensland seeks to give children and young people the chance to step up and speak out. The insights we gather will be compared to what we heard in 2018, asking questions about: Children and young people’s hopes and dreams What their community is like The big issues, and How they respond to stressful situations With changes to how we live our lives during COVID-19, all Growing Up in Queensland activities are available online so children and young people

Leading early intervention and care for children with autism This year, we’re celebrating 15 years of helping children with autism develop essential life skills for big futures. For high-quality therapy and care for your child, call 1300 273 435 or visit aeiou.org.au

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have greater access to having their say. The art activity, for children aged four to seven years, is just one of the activities available for young people to complete. Postcards and surveys are also available for young people aged between eight and 18 years. To get involved, or to complete any of the activities, please visit: www.qfcc.qld.gov.au/GrowingUp “Step up. Speak out. Growing Up in Queensland 2020” is a guest post from the Queensland Family and Child Commission.

Parenting

National

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Party Time

BRICKS 4 KIDZ® We are the world’s most popular provider of LEGO® themed birthday parties for children – let us bring that experience to your budding builder. Providing a mobile and online solution, we will customise the party so it is perfect for your special LEGO® Master! Kick off the action with loads of colourful creative-play LEGO® Bricks, then keep the momentum going with LEGO®based games and activities. Smiling faces, happy voices, and busy hands – these are the sights and sounds of a BRICKS 4 KIDZ® party. Located across Queensland, we’ll have ALL your party needs covered. www.bricks4kidz.com.au/queensland/queenslandlego-parties-and-events

STREET SCIENCE STEAM SQUAD Small group live classes with our scientists and teachers. For only $12 a session (no booking fee!) your child will be immersed in a STEAM experience like no other. Our 1 hour classes, such as Kitchen Chemistry and Forces, will inspire your kids to innovate and enjoy learning. For more info and to book head to… www.webstore.streetscience.com.au LIMITED CAPACITY! Classes are split into prep to year 2 and year 3 to year 6.

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Party Time Did you enjoy the novelty of a lockdown party (we saw some great ideas at www.getoutwithkids.com.au/birthday-party-at-home) or are you looking forward to getting back out there and partying with your closest friends? The great news is, you soon can! These businesses are all looking forward to welcoming you back.

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20% OFF any booking for 2 to 12 kids at Brisbane’s No1 Escape Room company. Use Code FamiliesMagazine20 when booking. Escape from Prison, save the world from Nuclear Disaster, or for older children find the cure to the Zombie Epidemic. You can include special items such as Birthday cakes, presents and cards into the role play of the room to make the event even more memorable!

There ain’t no party like a Flip Out Party!

Our reception area seats 42 between a mixture of lounges and high bar tables and stools, which can be arranged for a great party area and you can bring in your own party food and drinks (prior arrangement required). With cameras as well as ceiling mounted microphones and speakers we watch and listen to everything that is happening and encourage the children to explore, work out the clues and work together as a team to crack the mission. www.foxinaboxbrisbane.com

We can’t wait to welcome you back to Flip Out when we re-open for a fun group jump session, or a party from our great range of packages that promise to provide your child the best birthday party EVER! Your child’s party is guaranteed to be jam packed with loads of goodies, high energy fun, and special moments to ensure that all your guests have a flipp’n awesome time! We take care of everything on the big day so all you need to worry about is enjoying yourself. Until we re-open, contact us via our facebook page, or email us at strathpine@flipout.net.au for details of our great party packages. Looking forward to having you flipping with us again soon! www.facebook.com/FlipOutStrathpine

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Party Time

The Best

for Kids Parties

Balloon games and parties go together like jelly and ice-cream, but there are so many more ways to have fun with balloons than just using them as decorations. We’ve got some of the best balloon games for kids parties right here! Raspberries This is a great game for older children, but it might make them dizzy! Set up a start and finish line and hand each child a non-inflated balloon. The object of this game is to be the first to get your balloon over the finish line by repeatedly blowing it up and letting it go. Inflate your balloon and release it in the direction of the finish line (the balloon will make a fun raspberry sound as it deflates!). Wherever the balloon lands is your new starting point. Inflate and release the balloon again and again until someone’s balloon makes it over the finish line! This one is best played outdoors.

Get stuffed! For this balloon game you will need • 2 oversized tracksuit pants • 2 oversized t-shirts

• lots of deflated balloons of various shapes and sizes Divide your party people into two groups and get each group to select a volunteer to “get stuffed”. The volunteer must put on the tracksuit pants and t-shirt over their own clothes. The other members of the team then inflate as many balloons as they can and stuff them into the volunteer’s pants and shirt before the buzzer sounds. The winning team is the one whose volunteer has the most inflated balloons in their clothing or looks the funniest!

Round ‘em up cowboy! The herd has escaped and you need to round them up! For this balloon game you will need • a balloon for each player • a marker pen • a designated cattle pen (a small room or the corner of a larger room) • something to round the herd up with

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Party Time Draw a cow’s face on each balloon (or have the kids draw on their own balloon) and set the herd free. The object of the game is for each player to herd his or her balloon back into the pen without touching it with their hands or feet. You can use a pool noodle (which doubles up as a great bronco!), a sheet of paper to waft the herd, a wooden spoon, paper plate or anything else you think appropriate, but beware – the party host is also the cattle rustler and can sneak in to set the herd free again! Set a timer and anyone who has their cow safely back in the pen when the buzzer sounds gets a prize.

Roaches on the wall This balloon game is a lesson on static electricity and party fun all rolled into one! Play this game indoors where there is lots of internal wall space – a hallway is ideal. Fill the hallway with inflated balloons and give each child their own designated wall space, then set the timer and let the fun begin! The object of the game is to get as many roaches (balloons) crawling on the wall as possible using only static electricity. Each child must charge their balloon with static by rubbing it vigorously on their clothing or hair (cue crazy hairstyles!). Once charged, slide the static side of the balloon gently onto the wall so that it sticks. The child with the most roaches on the wall (and most outrageous hair) when the buzzer sounds is the winner!

Obstacle course Set up a simple obstacle course and time how long it takes for each player to blow their balloon, using just their mouth or a straw, through all the obstacles and over the finish line. Obstacle

ideas can include the balloon passing under tables, through hula-hoops, weaving in and out of cones, going over low objects etc. This game works great indoors but is even more fun outside where there’s a breeze to thwart your efforts!

Balloon skirmish You will need two different coloured sets of inflated balloons and lots of space! This game is better suited to older children and teenagers. Divide the players into two teams with each team assigned an equal number of balloons in their colour. The object of the game is to capture as many of your opponent’s balloons as you can whilst protecting your own – teamwork is a must! At the end of the designated time, count up the balloons and award 10 points for each balloon saved, and 20 points for each balloon captured. The winning team has the most points.

Balloon tennis / balloon volleyball Back and forth ball games are heaps more fun with an unpredictable ball, and what ball is more unpredictable than a ball-oon? It won’t go in a straight line and you can’t power drive it, so it’s giggles galore with these silly games. For balloon tennis, make your racquets out of paper plates with lollypop stick handles and determine your playing court. To make the game even more interesting, put a ping-pong ball or small marble into the balloon before you blow it up! For balloon volleyball, string a net or rope between two trees or posts and you’re all set. For added ‘danger’ part fill the balloon with water or flour and watch those serves!

....like no-one’s watching

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Party Time Balloon stomp This is a classic balloon game that’s been a favourite for decades. For this game you will need one balloon per player and string. Players begin the game with an inflated balloon tied to their ankle, on a string about 80-100cm long. The object of the game is to burst everyone else’s balloon whilst keeping yours intact. The winner is the last player with an inflated balloon. For safety’s sake this game needs a few rules and full adult supervision. Rules are • you can only stomp on another player’s balloon with your untethered foot (if the balloon is tied to your left ankle you can only stomp with your right foot) • you cannot use your hands or any other part of your body • no pushing or shoving! Any deliberate contact with another player results in your elimination

Balloon party bags This is a great game for younger children and it helps with their colour matching cognition. For this game you will need a different coloured balloon for each player with a matching coloured token. Push a few lollies and small toys inside the balloons before inflating, then hide the balloons all over the house, garden or designated party area. Each child must find the balloon that matches the colour of his or her token. If they find another coloured balloon they must put it back in its hiding place and continue to search for their own.

When all the balloons have been found, the children can pop the balloons to get their treats.

Balloon pop relay This balloon game works well indoors or out, provided you have enough space. For this game you will need to divide the players into teams, with each team given a chair and an assigned colour of balloon. Set a start line and place the chairs a few metres beyond it. Scatter a number of inflated balloons in each team’s colours between the start line and the chairs. Each team must send a player out in turns to find one of their own balloons, race to their chair, and pop the balloon by sitting on it. When their balloon pops they can race back to the start line to tag the next player. The winning team is the first one to have each player pop a balloon and make it safely back behind the line.

Balloon word search The object of this game is to be the first team to find all the letters and spell out their assigned word. Each team is given a word of equal length to spell, and balloons with the corresponding letters written upon them are scattered throughout the party area. The teams have to race to find all the letters and spell out their word correctly with balloons, and the first team to complete the task is the winner.

Musical balloon Show off your moves and be the last player dancing! The object of this game is to keep the balloon in the air.

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Party Time All players begin on the dance floor with one balloon for the whole group. As players dance to the music they must pass the balloon around and not let it touch the floor. When the music suddenly stops the player with the balloon must toss it into the air and call out the name of another player. The player whose name is called must reach the balloon and keep it in the air until the music begins again. Any named player who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reach the balloon in time or lets it touch the floor is out. The game continues until you have one clear winner.

Mystery balloons Fill a number of balloons with mystery substances and objects and number each balloon. You can fully or partially inflate each balloon or leave them deflated so they can be squished (a great sensory game!). Each child must try to guess what is in each balloon without popping it. The winner is the person with the most correct guesses. Suggestions for mystery fillings are: Custard, Small Toys, S and, Flour, Cereal, Rice, Marbles, Crumpled paper, Lego people etc.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the clean up! Balloons are fun, but theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not great for the environment. Protect our wildlife and waterways by making sure no balloons are released outside and that all popped balloon fragments are collected and put in the bin. For more great balloon games and birthday party ideas, go to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/brisbane/be-yourown-party-planner

h a t th e w e v e i h c a l l Sh e wi i m agi n ed. t e y t o n s a wo r l d h Register your interest at www.ahs.qld.edu.au.

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Winter Day Trips

Tangalooma Tropical Paradise If you are looking for a slice of paradise only 75 minutes by ferry from Brisbane, you will find it at Tangalooma Island Resort.

Tangalooma Island Resort, on Moreton Island, offers a wealth of tours and activities all year round. Families Magazine was invited to visit Tangalooma to put some of the activities to the test. We saw exactly what can be done in a day, and why it’s worth extending your stay a little longer.

Day Tripping to Tangalooma Island Resort Can Tangalooma be done in a day? Yes! You can visit for one day and have an excellent time, but there are so many activities on offer it’s recommended that you plan your trip and build an itinerary to make the most of your time there. There is so much to do that we ended up staying for 2 days. Here are some of the highlights.

Free activities There’s swimming and beach play of course, and bush walking trails and the fabulous eco-centre, but our favourite free things to do were the wildlife talks.

The journey to the dunes is aboard an all-terrain six-wheel-drive coach through bouncy sand tracks with the forest close enough to touch each side of the vehicle, and hills and views aplenty. Our guide gave a very humorous and engaging safety instruction, and then we were handed our boards to began our climb. The climb is physically challenging but tobogganing back down the hill was a blast! Apparently speeds of 40km per hour can be reached, and it was a surprisingly smooth ride with only a few minor bumps and ripples. The entire tour lasts approximately 90-minutes and departs three times daily.

Segway beach tour This turned out to be my son’s favourite activity. He’d always fancied having a go at riding a Segway, and I honestly thought it would be a lot harder to do than it was.

Every day wild kookaburras and pelicans visit the resort for a free feed, while staff members give informative and entertaining talks about the birds that call Tangalooma home.

Whale watching lunch cruise If you’re visiting the island in the winter months, the 3-hour whale watching lunch cruise is a real treat. Whales travel the Humpback Highway to breed, with peak season for local sightings being May To October.

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The lunch cruise is aboard a 3-level catamaran with seating inside and out. We recommend eating lunch inside before venturing onto the bow or open top level to take in the fantastic island views. We saw a good number of humpback whales during our cruise, mostly juvenile or adult, and for each whale spotted Tangalooma Island Resort makes a donation to charity.

Desert Safari with Sand Tobogganing For those who don’t know, Moreton Island is the third largest sand island in the world and has the world’s highest coastal sand hill at 280 metres (don’t worry, you’ll not be tobogganing down that!). The dunes you toboggan down are inland, and a pretty steep 35-40m high. 20

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Winter Day Trips The tour goes along the beach towards the wrecks, with lots of ‘free play’ involved. We were given instruction on safely controlling the Segway before being allowed to try our skills at hands-free gliding, crouching on the foot plate, swooping turns and reversing. The kids didn’t want the fun to end so they were given the task of bringing all the Segways back off the beach – a responsibility they relished!

Quad bike tour

dolphins are not given more than 20% of their dietary requirement to prevent them becoming dependent, and those that visit are all named and known by the staff. The dolphin feeding experience is a FREE inclusion in visitor packages but bookings are essential. If you’re day tripping, don’t worry - the ferry back to the mainland won’t leave without you!

Why we love Tangalooma It’s very easy to fall in love with Tangalooma. The island setting can rival The Whitsundays with some of the best scenery and most spectacular sunsets in Australia. The staff are incredibly friendly and the accommodation – yes, we do recommend you stay for the night – was fabulous.

The quad bike tour takes you inland on your own quad bike (two-seaters are available if you prefer) to a specially constructed quad bike track with a quick detour onto the beach included. The track gives plenty of opportunity for sliding around corners and throwing out sand, and the view from the top of the hill is amazing!

Dolphin feeding experience THIS is what Tangalooma is famous for! Tangalooma is one of the few places in the world – and of only two in Australia – where visitors can experience hand-feeding a wild dolphin. Tangalooma Island Resort’s guests and day-trippers are invited to step into the water by the jetty after dark and present a fish to the dolphins, with souvenir photos of the experience available. The

To find out more about our trip to Tangalooma, the accommodation, and the many, many other exciting activities on offer, read our full review at www.familiesmagazine.com.au/tangalooma-island-resort

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Winter Day Trips

Pram Friendly Walks in Brisbane The winter and spring months are a perfect time to get out in the brisk fresh air with bub. The heat and humidity have all but gone, leaving perfect walking weather in their wake. No matter where you live in Brisbane, there are some great pram-friendly walks nearby. Here are a few of our Families Magazine favourites.

Berrinba Wetlands Berrinba Wetlands boasts over 8km of flat pram-friendly paths, with tracks that stretch from 600 metres to 3km. This wetlands adventure takes you through boardwalks, bridges and forests, with a viewing platforms and interactive LCD screen. It is fantastic for children of all ages as it has a playground, picnic areas and toilets. Location: Wayne Goss Drive, Browns Plains

Daisy Hill Conservation Park Daisy Hill Conservation Park is a short trip from Brisbane city on the south side. There are many walks here where pram-friendly options weave you through forest and bushland, and other paths take you around the leisure area. With picnic areas and plenty of free space to roam, it’s a fantastic place to wear your little ones out. Don’t forget to pop into the Daisy Hill Koala Centre, located within the park, to see some of the Koalas and learn all about them – admission is free! Location: Daisy Hill Road, Daisy Hill

Eddie Santagiuliana Way Eddie Santagiuliana Way is located in Cleveland. This walkway and bikeway offers diverse landscapes and habitats that are home to a variety of wildlife. The best part of this walk is the amazing views of the bay and Stradbroke Island, and the children will appreciate

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the playgrounds at the parks. You can start this walk at the Manning Esplanade Park in Thornlands (the path is to the left of the playground) and journey through boardwalks, wetlands, and open areas, or from the Henry Ziegenfusz Park on Fitzroy Street, Cleveland Location: Best Parking can be found at the Cricket Club off Fitzroy Street, Cleveland

Enoggera Reservoir Loop Here you will feel like you are a million miles from the city, when really you are not too far at all. Around the designated swimming beach and picnic areas are a few pram friendly walks. The 5km loop takes about two hours and follows the reservoir bank amongst the hoop pine forest. The whole loop around the reservoir is 11.4km, so be sure to follow the signs if you don’t want to go too far! While you are there, you might like to go into the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre to see the wildlife, including wallabies, reptiles and platypus (admission fees apply), and there’s a café nearby too. Location: 60 Mount Nebo Road, The Gap

Hide ‘n’ Seek Trail at Mt Coot-tha This trail is nestled in the Brisbane Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens. You can park your car at the base where

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Winter Day Trips there is free parking and enjoy free entry into the grounds. Follow the signs that point you to the trail and enjoy the stroll amongst the luscious greenery. The Hide n Seek Trail is specially designed for little kids with 17 hidden objects to find, including musical bats, dragons, and so much more. Be sure to look up, down and everywhere! Being within the Botanical Gardens, these pram-friendly walking trails are well served with toilets and water bubblers, plus there are picnic areas and places to eat on site and the Kuta Kids Playground. Location: Mount Coot-tha Road, Toowong

New Farm Park If you like a waterside location, then the pram-friendly walking track beginning at New Farm Park is a great choice. Using New Farm Park as a starting point you can stroll along the riverside walk for 4km to reach Newstead House. If you don’t want to walk that far, there are lots of interesting stopping places along the way, and the option to catch the City Cat back from Teneriffe. An absolute MUST do is, of course, the awesome playground that’s designed with KIDS in mind! Location: Brunswick Street, New Farm

Roma Street Parklands

Moora Park at Shorncliffe are great places to finish up your walk with playgrounds and facilities. Best parking: Lower Moora Park, Park Parade, Shorncliffe or Flinders Parade, Sandgate

Stockyard Creek Track Stockyard Creek Track is great if you are after a quiet and calming woodland stroll. This 1.4km track south of Brisbane will take you around an hour to complete but allow more time as you may find yourself lost in the authentic Australian nature. Stockyard Creek is part of the Brisbane Koala Bushlands, so keep an eye out for koalas in the trees. Toilets, picnic areas, BBQ and parking on site. Location: Alperton Road, Burbank

Toohey Forest Tracks There are a number of tracks in the Toohey Forest, taking in Mt Gravatt Outlook, Pegg’s Lookout and Federation Lookout. This track is five kilometres long and is the perfect walkway for prams due to its wide and flat nature. Starting at the entrance of Nathan Ridge Track off of Ring Road at Griffith University, it immerses you in nature and wildlife, with the smell of the beautiful eucalyptus trees. Location: Toohey Road, Tarragindi

These parklands are a popular spot due to their beautiful gardens, forests and features such as bridges and the rock waterfall. With the pathways being pram friendly it’s the perfect place for a stroll, and when your little one needs to stretch their legs there is plenty of green grass for them to play on. Roma Street Parklands is also home to lots of playgrounds and activity areas, with plenty of facilities for picnicking. Location: 1 Parkland Boulevard, Brisbane City

Samford Park your car at the Samford Football Club and follow the concrete pram friendly walkways that head into Samford Village. This trail is a perfect stroll for families as you can wander into town and grab yourself a coffee at one of the many cafes before walking back out of town to the car. Location: 2149 Mount Samson Road, Samford Valley

Wynnum to Manly Esplanade

For the ultimate leg stretch, the ten-kilometre walk from Wynnum to Manly Esplanade is a great option. It is pram friendly with its wide and smooth pathways and is picturesque with its views of the water. There are many shops and cafes that you will pass, and most importantly there are playgrounds for your little one as well as access to the Whale Park and wading pool in the warmer Shorncliffe to Sandgate months. This 2km pram-friendly walkway is perfect to get in a good dose of Location: Waterloo Esplanade, Wynnum fresh sea air. Along the walk there are many cafes for you to enjoy a coffee and take in the serenity. Arthur Davis Park at Sandgate and www.familiesmagazine.com.au/pram-friendly-walks-in-brisbane

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Local Clubs & Classes Directory

Clubs, Classes & Activities around Greater Brisbane for adults and children aged 0 - 17.

If you would like a listing for your club, class or activity in our next issue’s inclusive directory, contact us now! Email: Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Compiled by Regina Gleeson NS = Northside SS = Southside CLASSES FOR ADULTS Code9 Parent (online) Code9 Parent is an online service for parents who want, or need, to have an active role in managing and supporting their children using social media and online gaming platforms. By becoming a Code9 Parent, you will learn what your kids already know, what kids don’t want you to know, and how to stay one step ahead, keeping your children safe. www.code9parent.com.au PAEDIATRIC FIRST AID COURSES St John Qld (NS & SS) Their mission is to enhance the lives of Queenslanders and their families through community services & charitable programs, comprehensive education & training, and quality first aid supplies. While they offer a wide range of first aid training across Qld, their 1-day Caring for Kids course is highly suitable for parents, guardians & grandparents who want to better understand and manage emergencies or childhood illnesses, and want to learn safety awareness around the house. You can trust St John Qld – “we’re here for life.” 1300 785 646 www.stjohnqld.com.au

ACTIVITY CENTRES BOUNCE Inc (SS) BOUNCE Tingalpa is a massive indoor adventure playground in Brisbane that provides an adrenaline rush for all ages. Imagine more than 50 interconnected trampolines with the Big Bag, Slam Dunk and Dodgeball courts rolled in. It is also home to the famous BOUNCE X-Park obstacle course so you can get your ninja on! www.bounceinc.com.au/ venue-tingalpa-qld Flip Out Strathpine (NS) Get the kids away from screens and using energy in a fun and healthy way! The air-conditioned arena is fully supervised and contains trampolines, foam pits, basketball slam-time, running walls, a separate area for under 10s, and a cafe area for refreshments. Jump sessions start every half hour, with 1 and 2 hour options available, which can be extended if more jump-time is needed! Grip-socks must be worn for fun and safety. Bring your own or grab a pair for $3.50. Keep an eye out for our great specials! Book online to avoid disappointment at www.flipout.net.au/locations/qld/strathpine

Laserzone Lawnton (NS) Brisbane’s No 1 multi-level laser tag arena, arcades, prize counter and rides will blow your mind! Laserzone offers the best value family entertainment on Brisbane’s north with a variety of packages to suit most ages and abilities. Laser tag is a camouflaged sport, perfect for getting kids away from their screenbased games and into an active game scenario with real people. Points are accumulated by tagging opponents, bases and targets throughout a tri-level futuristic maze. Arcades and rides are played between missions, adding even more excitement and variety to your visit. Laserzone is perfect for all occasions especially birthday parties. 3205 4141 www.brisbane.laserzone.com.au MUSIC Kids Music Beat (NS & SS) is Brisbane’s original and longest running Music Early Learning Program. Their program nurtures development, fosters a love of music and helps you to use music in the home. Having fun through musical play and taking joy in your child’s musical expression is central to their program. All music

Our vision is to open minds, inspire hearts and nurture dreams.

Dare 45 Hurdcotte Street Enoggera 4051 07 3354 3422 enrolments@hillbrook.qld.edu.au hillbrook.qld.edu.au

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m a e r to D Hillbrook A co-educational high school where trust, respect, inclusion, collaboration and balance are at the heart of everything we do.

Local Clubs & Classes Directory is played live and is voice led. This is because research supports the use of live voice-led music with children under 5 years of age. Term One 2020 starts from Tuesday 28 January. Come learn how making music supports your child’s social, cognitive, physical, emotional, and musical development. To book visit www.musicbeat.com.au Queensland Show Choir (NS & SS) is an all ages choir based in Brisbane. At QSC there are no auditions and no stress, all levels of experience are welcome. Each ensemble is guided by an experienced Musical Director, allowing singers to develop their technique and explore popular repertoire, whilst also forming close friendships. QSC offers an exciting range of performance opportunities from biannual concerts at QPAC to local Christmas Carols. During isolation QSC has transitioned into an online format. For more information on our online rehearsals and performances, please visit: www.queenslandshowchoir.com.au SPORTS & EXERCISE Flipside Circus (NS) offers a wide range of classes from beginners to experienced from ages 18 months -100 years. There is something fun and suitable for every age and every ability. The classes are fast moving and full of action - never a moment to spare. Go and learn all the skills circus can offer including: tissu, trapeze, lyra, juggling, hoops, acro balance, tumbling and more. Join

the circus, Flipside offers a free trial pass for your first class. 3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au GOALS Soccer (NS & SS) Brisbane offers sought after soccer coaching for Brisbane kids aged 4 – 12 years. Whether your child is new to the world of soccer or an experienced player, the coaching offered at GOALS will take their performance to the next level. Our group soccer sessions put a strong focus on quality of coaching and learning over quantity of kids per class, this helps us get maximum benefit from our time coaching your kids and for those that require a more personalised approach. It’s important to us that parents and kids get the most out of the program so the first session is offered as a trial to let parents see how a session works and let the coach see how comfortable your child is with the practices involved class structure. Get in touch now to reserve a trial spot, numbers are very limited! We seriously help kids play better! 0405 905 595 www.goalssoccer.com.au Golf @ Victoria Park (NS) Learn to play golf for kids at Victoria Park with their junior programs during school term and school holidays. Their classes are fun and interactive for kids aged 4 – 14, no experience required. The kids will take part in exciting games and challenges along with making new friends. Classes run daily from Monday – Thursday for 2hrs in the school

holidays, and their school term classes are an 8 week program offered on weekdays and weekends. For more information and bookings contact Victoria Park. 3252 9891 www.victoriapark.com.au Iceworld (NS & SS) There’s no better way to cool down than a visit to one of Brisbane’s Iceworld Olympic Ice Rinks, located in both Acacia Ridge and Boondall. Never experienced the thrill of ice skating? IceWorld is the place to be! Extensive public session times available during school holidays (refer to the website for times) and they offer fantastic value for hours of cool ‘sun safe’ fun and exercise! Pricing per person includes skate hire. Enquire about their fantastic birthday and function options. Fully stocked cafés for public use at both venues. www.iceworld.com.au PCYC (NS) As Queensland’s largest gymnastics provider PCYC Queensland’s fully accredited coaches provide fun and inclusive opportunities to experience gymnastics at any age and any level. Their programs encourage fundamental movement for life, build the foundations of a healthy and active lifestyle and improve fitness, strength, balance and flexibility. Experience gymnastics at PCYC Queensland through Trampolining, Tumbling, Junior Ninja, KinderGym, Recreational Gymnastics, Performance Gymnastics, Fitter for Life and more! Caboolture 5495 7143; Deception Bay 3293 0166; Redcliffe 3385 1900; Sandgate 3269 5358 www.gymnastics.pcyc.org.au

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Local Clubs & Classes Directory QLD Cheer Elite (NS) Their classes are a mix of gymnastics, dancing and acrobatics rolled into one. Combine this with music, performing and costumes and it’s a mix that kids absolutely love. In cheerleading, every student in the team is important and everyone’s strengths are celebrated. Athletes of all shapes and sizes are embraced and everyone has a role to play. Cheer is about teamwork, encouragement, trust and commitment and it allows everyone the chance to shine. To find out more about our free trial classes for ages 4+ www.queenslandcheerelite.com.au Tawa Yoga (SS) Bringing the joy of YOGA to Children and Teens! Yoga encourages healthy active habits whilst reminding them that it is just as important to relax and pause. Helping children recognise the balance of mind, body and spirit equips them with the tools to develop into kind, responsible and confident adults. Family friendly yoga studio on Metroplex Avenue, Murarrie that offers classes for EVERYBODY from Pre-natal, to Children, Teens, Seniors and everyone in-between! 0488 110 298 www.tawayoga.com.au SWIMMING Aqualogan Laurie Laurence Swim School (SS) offers worldleading teaching methods proven over 50 years. FREE swim assessments for all learn to swim levels;

Kids Alive program with 5 FREE lessons; and Paddle Splash program offers 4 FREE introductory lessons for 3mths-3 yrs last 4 weeks of term. School holiday swim clinics and intensives. Squad training from junior to professional athlete level. Centres at Beenleigh and Logan North with indoor heated pools for year-round swimming. Each is equipped with access for people with disability and offer Adaptive Aquatics programs. Private lessons also available. Beenleigh 3412 4910; Logan North 3412 5645 www.loganleisurecentres.com.au/swim Superfish (SS) Free swimming assessment & Free trial lesson No obligation! All levels & ages. Under 3’s also includes - free 45Min orientation lesson. Under 6-month bubs also includes – free water familiarisation lessons. 25m heated, indoor pools. Specialist Drowning Prevention Program - babies, toddlers & under 5’s. School age stroke correction program small, structured classes. Children’s squads. Free pool entry for Superfish families, 6 days/week, once booked in lessons! Sunnybank. 3323 3188 www.superfish.com.au FILM & TV, THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS Perform Australia (NS & SS) Acting and drama classes right around Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Learn acting technique for stage and screen and participate in performances and film shoots throughout the year. Their mission is to launch passion-driven actors, and to help each student

Join the LEC fun We know families are looking forward to the reopening of Logan Entertainment Centre. In the meantime, enjoy fun kids activities at our Facebook page. For show updates visit: bit.ly/3ce5iBV

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find their story within. Build self-confidence, creativity and social skills in their fun and friendly classes. Different classes are available for each age group. Just enrol online, no audition needed. Perform Australia was formerly known as Australian School for Performing Arts, Film and Television (ASPAFTV). 1300 908 905 www.perform.edu.au DANCE Kick Dance (SS) in Bulimba provides classes in Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Acrobatics, Contemporary, Tap and Irish and caters for all ages and abilities from toddler to adult. Kick Arts provides classes in Singing and Acting as well as producing biannual musicals. Kick provides a fun and enjoyable class environment that also caters for students wishing to excel in exams, eisteddfods, musicals and concert performances. They are very proud of their students’ national successes and they are recipients of many Eisteddfod titles including Classical Ballet, Jazz and Tap Championships and aggregates. Whether you are keen to have fun or ‘Kick’ start your dance career, Kick Dance and Arts have classes to suit. 0414 308 248 www.kickdance.com.au HEALTH, WELLBEING AND SCHOOL SUPPORT AEIOU Foundation (NS & SS) Supporting families in the early years of an autism journey. Has your child recently received

Local Clubs & Classes Directory an autism diagnosis? Perhaps you suspect they may be on the spectrum and are seeking advice. The early years of an autism journey can be challenging, but you’re not alone. AEIOU Foundation can help. Evidence-based early intervention can make an enormous difference to a child’s development, encouraging independence, communication and confidence. AEIOU provides individualised therapy and care to children aged 2-6 years, within a long daycare group setting. Across nine Queensland centres, speech pathologists, educators, occupational and behaviour therapists work collaboratively to help children thrive. The team also work with you one-on-one to navigate the NDIS funding process. AEIOU provides the most affordable and effective autism early intervention program in Australia. If you’d like to learn more about their service, and how they can help, get in touch. 1300 273 435 www.aeiou.org.au Kip McGrath Education Centres (NS) provides professional tuition in English and maths to primary and secondary school children in Albany Creek and surrounding areas. They cater for students of all abilities in a relaxed, friendly and motivating learning environment. At Kip McGrath, students follow their own individual learning program designed specifically for their needs. This targeted help allows them to learn at their own pace, make real progress and gain the confidence they need to move forwards with their education. With Kip McGrath online tutoring, your child can see and talk to their tutor plus use a whiteboard with our

interactive software. All you need is a laptop or PC, internet connection, microphone/headset and webcam. Weekly lessons last one hour and are designed to help your child with maths and/or English in the exact areas they need. Kip McGrath can help with students in grades 3 – 12. They only use fully qualified teachers to ensure the highest possible quality of lessons. Book a free assessment today or give them a call for a friendly chat. 3325 0025 www.kipmcgrath.com/albany-creek Northside Tuition (NS) is run by Kylie Fedrick, a qualified psychologist and special education teacher, with years of experience utilising children’s books as a tool for supporting children’s social and emotional needs. Northside Tuition is proud to be adding bibliotherapy consultancy sessions to its existing suite of services. If your child is experiencing social-emotional challenges – e.g. anxiety, friendship issues, or anger management – book a bibliotherapy consultancy session with Northside Tuition. During the online or face-to-face consultancy, Kylie will listen to your concerns and recommend a collection of books based on information provided to assist you in meeting your child’s needs. Northside Tuition also provides an education consultation service for parents seeking support, advocacy tools and resource ideas (including assistive technology) to meet your child’s individual needs. Specialising in supporting students with disabilities, learning difficulties and gifted students. kylie@northsidetuition.com.au www.northsidetuition.com.au

Scribble Ink Writing Classes (NS) Brisbane’s Most Dynamic Holiday Writing Course for Students @ Griffith University EVERY SCHOOL HOLIDAY! “My daughter’s writing improved tenfold. She came home beaming! Thankyou!” P. O’Callaghan. “OMG! Went from a B+ to an A+ and TOPPED MY GRADE. Used all your techniques!” Yr 12 student Lourdes Hill College. “I got the best mark in school for the ICAS writing test!” Year 7 Scribbler MSHS. “Best student short story I have ever read.” English HOD BGS. Our Scribblers course and Saturday and Monday Masterclasses will take your child’s writing to the next level.... guaranteed! Online courses available. Using advanced techniques mastered over 30 years of teaching experience, allow the passionate Mister C and his experienced team to take your child on a journey of writing enrichment. It’s fantastic! Find Scribble Ink on Facebook or go to www.scribbleink.com.au

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

Mind Wise Psychology Services

We are a large psychology clinic located in Brisbane’s South. We offer a range Mental Health Services for ages >6. Our psychologists provide evidence-based treatment for various clinical concerns. We will provide you with a range of coping skills and strategies to assist you to better manage any challenges you may be facing. Therapy is conducted in an open nonjudgmental environment. Some of the things we can assist you with include: • Depression and Anxiety • Anger and behavioural difficulties • Sleep Management • Post Natal Depression • Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Adjustment to Change in Life Circumstances • Stress Caused by Work/Life Balance Difficulties We can also provide Academic/Learning Assessments. A comprehensive learning disorder assessment with a child therapist will usually take 4 to 5 hours and investigates academic skills including reading, writing, mathematics and language skills, as well as selected cognitive skills including memory and attention. Academic assessment is useful for adults or children who are suspected of having a Specific Learning Disorder (e.g. Dyslexia). Visit our website for further information: http://www.mindwisepsychologyservices.com.

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Family Freebies

Enter on the link for each competition.

water before dumping it on the kids below in one enormous splash! Paradise Resort is planning to re-open on Saturday 1st August…provided travel restrictions have been lifted and it is safe to welcome you and your family again by then. Find out more: www.paradiseresort.com.au and start planning your next holiday now.

WIN A Family Holiday

at Paradise Resort Gold Coast

Voted best Family Resort in Australia for the past 9 years, Paradise Resort on the Gold Coast has been renowned for family fun for close to 40 years. After being closed for shy of 5 weeks the entire central resort area which features two giant waterparks, a lagoon pool and spa is being given a complete make-over with both waterparks being re-painted, all the netting replaced and a brand new soft floor being laid. A crowd favourite, the waterpark attractions feature a myriad of slides, water cannons and jets to entertain and engage the whole family, topped off with a giant bucket that fills with 600 litres of

When all of this is over you too can discover a heaven for kids and a paradise for parents at Australia’s favourite family resort, Paradise Resort Gold Coast. Your prize includes: • 2 nights’ for 2 Adults and up to 2 Children (0-12years) staying in a Superior Resort Room • Continental breakfast daily in The Bistro • Undercover car-parking for one vehicle • One Kids Club session per child 0-12years per stay • Unlimited use of the Zone 4 Kids Waterpark, lagoon pool and spa • Access to a range of daily activities and entertainment for the whole family • FREE use of Dusty’s Indoor Jungle Gym • FREE use of Dusty’s Outdoor Adventure Playground • FREE Character Appearances + Live Shows • FREE Poolside Movie Nights • FREE use of the Giant Chess Board • FREE turns to dunk your mates in the Dunk

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Tank • 24 hour access to our Guest Laundry and Cardio Gym • 24 hour reception to assist you any hour of the day • Complimentary daily housekeeping service *Sundays on request • 24-hour check-in • A range of onsite dining options including a Restaurant, Café and Bar with alfresco dining • 100% non-smoking property Valued at: $670 Enter here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competition/ win-a-family-holiday-at-paradise-resort-goldcoast

WIN A Family Day

Trip with Brisbane Whale Watching Brisbane Whale Watching is a multiple award winning, Eco Accredited Nature Tourism Cruise Company owned and operated by the South Pacific’s only female Captain of a whale watching venture, Captain Kerry Lopez. Captain Kerry and her friendly crew are ready to take you on an unforgettable journey through

Family Freebies only female skipper that owns and operates a whale watching adventure in the South Pacific Rim, Captain Kerry Lopez • A portion of every ticket is donated to ongoing whale research with various whale organisations • A licensed bar, snack and souvenir counter is available on board • Wheelchair accessible the crystal clear waters of Brisbane’s Moreton Bay to experience the mesmerizing migration of the mighty humpback whales. On board the multi-million dollar purpose built luxury catamaran – MV Eye-Spy, you will come face to face with these amazing mammals and witness them frolic, blow and splash just metres away. With wide walk decks, six outdoor viewing areas, and floor to ceiling windows ensuring maximum viewing from inside, Brisbane Whale Watching has a 100% whale sighting guarantee. Tours operate daily during the whale watching season – June through to November, with whale sightings a daily occurrence. Located just 30 minutes north of the Brisbane CBD on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula, we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to join us on board for a full days whale watching adventure including: • Boarding from 9.00am for a 10.00am departure and returning approximately 2.00pm -2.30pm from the Redcliffe Jetty • GUARANTEED whale sightings • Fresh gourmet buffet lunch including tiger prawns, chicken, ham, a large arrangement of salads and rolls and fruit (Vegetarian and Vegan options can be arranged) • Extensive and informative commentary by the

Find out more: https://brisbanewhalewatching. com.au Brisbane Whale Watching are donating 2 family passes to go whale watching on Eye-Spy this whale season. Enter here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competition/ win-a-family-trip-whale-watching

WIN a Family

Photo Session Based in Ferny Hills, North Brisbane Family and Newborn photographer Natarsha March is 2019 QLD Newborn Photographer of the Year, QLD Family Photographer of the Year finalist 3 years running and one of Brisbane’s most popular photographers of babies and families. She creates timeless wall art and heirloom prints to fill both homes and hearts. Natarsha has a wonderful talent of helping anyone connect with the lens, even people who feel self-conscious or silly at first soon forget about the camera and are comfortable having fun together. She takes pride in drawing out

emotional moments of your family, as well as the classic posed photos. The most unique part of the studio is the expansive private gardens right at the door. Situated on nearly 2 acres of property just 20 minutes from Brisbane CBD, you can enjoy the luxury of an indoor/ outdoor session at the one location or relax at your outdoor family session without any concerns of onlookers, off-leash dogs, parking issues or distractions. With custom-designed spaces specifically grown and built for family portraits, Natarsha offers the most versatile studio experience in Brisbane. Stunning photographs, her easy-going style and great prices all contribute to Natarsha’s reputation as one of Brisbane’s most popular photographers of newborns and families. Find out more: www.brisbanenewbornphotography.com.au Family Photography by Natarsha March is donating a full-service family photography experience with ten digital files and a 20x30 inch canvas, total package value $1050. Enter here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competition/ win-a-family-photo-session

Your Local Families Magazine June/July 2020 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Family Freebies

Family Freebies WIN 2 x Car passes

to Yatala Drive-In Movies

Appealing to young and old alike - the Yatala Drive-In is South East Queensland’s last open-air Drive-In motion picture theatre, it’s gates first opened on Sunday 27th October 1974, with only one screen and is now Australia’s most modern Drive-In Theatre, boasting 3 massive screens - the biggest of which is 33.5 metres wide! The Yatala Drive-in is more than just movies; it’s about starry nights, cruisin’ in and cookin’ out! It’s a community event really. There’s something about the drive-in that makes people extrasociable. It’s kind of like camping out. So there are blankets, air mattresses, folding chairs, coolers, and the all-important bug spray. When school holidays arrive, parents dress their youngest children in their pyjamas, and head for the Drive-In. Find out more: www.fivestarcinemas.com.au/drive-in Yatala Drive-In are donating 2 drive-in car passes to one family so you can take your friends or family! Enter here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competition/ car-passes-to-yatala-drive-in-movies

Enter on the link for each competition.

centres; broadcasting and performing with state, national and international ballet and opera companies.

Find out more: www.namemystuff. com.au

With family shows like The Peasant Prince, Star Wars and Harry Potter, this is the must-do bucket list item for all Queensland families. Find out more: www.qso.com.au/

Name My Stuff are offering you the chance to win a basket with different products - worth $145.65.

QSO are donating a family pass (four tickets) to be redeemed at a studio performance before June 30 2021. Enter here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competition/ win-a-family-pass-from-qso

WIN A Family Pass (5

passes) to Iceworld

Iceworld™ Olympic Ice Rinks have been part of the Brisbane landscape for over 30 years, providing exclusive access to Olympic size ice rinks on the north and south side of Brisbane. Whether you are a beginner or an expert Iceworld™ will soon be your favourite entertainment venue. With rinks at Boondall and Acacia Ridge, both rinks have a fully stocked skate shop…so no need to panic if you forget your socks or gloves! Better still, both rinks have a cosy coffee shop so if you are beginning to feel the cold, you can enjoy a hot drink, whilst you sit back, relax and view all the fast-paced action on the ice! Iceworld™ have public sessions 7 days a week, so we are sure that you’ll find a time and date to skate that suits you! They are open 362 days a year! (Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day). They also have birthday party packages to tempt you…only $25 per head to experience the coolest party in town! Find out more: www.iceworld.com.au Iceworld are offering 2 x family passes to Iceworld Boondall or Acacia Ridge. Enter here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competition/ win-a-family-pass-to-iceworld

WIN A Family Pass

WIN Sustainable

to a Performance Products from Name by Queensland My Stuff Name My Stuff is all about reusable sustainable Symphony Orchestra products for the whole family with the option of

Whatever the reason, whoever you are, Queensland Symphony Orchestra is an Orchestra For Everyone. As an arts leader and great Australian orchestra, Queensland Symphony Orchestra is renowned for its high quality, breathtaking performances of both classical and modern compositions that engage audiences of diverse musical tastes, interests, and ages. As one of the largest performing arts company in Queensland and the state’s only professional symphony orchestra, Queensland Symphony Orchestra plays a vital role in Queensland’s cultural community, educating; mentoring aspiring performers; touring regional

Enter here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competition/ win-sustainable-products

getting some products personalised/permanently marked. Enter for your chance to win: • 1 Sachi shopping basket $24.95 • 1 personalised 500ml Oasis stainless steel bottle $27.95 • 1 personalised 330ml Oasis wine sippy cup $23.95 • 1 100% cotton Danish Dish cloth $10.95 • 3 Evergreen bamboo toothbrushes $16.95 1 pack of Agreena silicone baking sheets $24.95 • 1 x 5 reusable Onya produce bags $15.95

Your Local Families Magazine June/July 2020 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

WIN A Champagne

Picnic Mat & Wine Mat

Made from recycled plastic, these picnic mats are waterproof to keep you dry from any damp ground and is easily wiped clean. These mats are made to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and to remain soft and comfortable for a long time. They are UV treated, mould resistant, fully washable and quick to dry. To extend the longevity of the mats, they come with their very own recycled plastic carry bag, so you can take your picnic mat wherever you roam. Find out more: www.recycledmats.com.au Enter here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competition/ win-a-picnic-mat

WIN A Prize Pack of 4

Games for Kids from Crown & Andrews Thanks to COVID-19 we’ve got lots of quality time at home with our loved ones, and it’s a perfect time to reconnect the family over a board game or two. Crown & Andrews and Goliath Games have four great games suitable for the whole family; Sequence, Pass the Pen, Pop! The Pig and Rubiks 3x3. Find out more: www.crownandandrews.com One lucky family will win all four games! Enter here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competition/ win-games-for-kids

More prizes to win on our website!

Family Deals

School Holiday Discounts for . Click here Visit our website to find the most up to date school holiday activities for your family. We have partnered with many businesses

around Brisbane to offer you discounted things to do and things to have!

NOW

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ school-holiday-discount-codesand-coupons/ If you have a printed copy, visit the above address.

Cheap toys and games

Cheap Zoo tickets

Discounted Abseiling

Discounted adventures

Discounted Escape rooms

Discounted Kayaking Adventures

Discounted Kids VR Party

Discounted whale watching tours

School Holiday Discount-Codes

Shark & Ray experience

Families Magazine

is made with love by

UPCOMING ISSUES August/September 2020

Janine Mergler – Editor Joanne Crane – Co-Editor,

BRISBANE SCHOOLS & EDUCATION

Online Content Manager TM

Advertising deadline: Friday 3 July 2020

Regina Gleeson

October/November 2020

– Listings Editor

TODDLERS, CHILDCARE & DAYCARE

Stephen Monteith – IT Systems & Support

Advertising deadline: Friday 11 September 2020

Disclaimer: 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 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. We

do not endorse contents or advertisers in our publication or on our web pages and will not be responsible for any content of any linked site or 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 the data protection laws. No material published by Families Magazine in print or online may be reproduced whatsoever without prior written consent.

Your Local Families Magazine June/July 2020 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Confidence springs from mastery. It is the self-belief required to embrace the unknown. At Brisbane Boys' College, we integrate best practice teaching and learning with the science of wellbeing, and in doing so, safeguard the most important ingredient to a boy’s success: confidence. We refer to this as A New School of Thought.

Prep to Year 12 · Boarding Years 7 to 12 · www.bbc.qld.edu.au

Families Magazine - Brisbane Issue 40 June/July 2020

Articles inside

The Best Balloon Games for Kids Parties

Easy Book Week Costume Ideas 2020