Families Magazine - Brisbane June/July 2014 Children's Parties Issue 04

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Issue 4: June/July 2014 www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

From North Lakes to Redland Bay and everywhere in between

CHILDREN’S PARTIES &

June/July School Holiday Fun Cooking with kids Geocaching for beginners Competitions galore

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Issue 4 June/July 2014

Contents Welcome to our Children’s Parties and June/July holiday fun issue of Families Magazine – Brisbane.

I love a good party! It doesn’t even have to be mine… just the excitement of celebrating a birthday or another milestone of someone I care about. I don’t know about you, but I am the ‘Queen of Outsourcing’! You see, I love a good cake (but I’ve never made one!), I love a good party activity (but I don’t have time to create them!) I once was told to ‘stick with my strengths’ and what I am good at is ‘outsourcing’! But I know lots of the clever Mummies and Daddies out there love to create it all for themselves, so we have compiled a huge list of all those Brisbane businesses that can help you pull off a wonderfully fun party – whether you want to outsource, or buy all the supplies and do it yourself – check out pages 14 – 17.

My Listings Editor, Regina, deserves a special mention in this issue.

She has worked her socks off to compile the best Families Fun pages (22 – 25), listing Brisbane events and activities covering June & July and particularly the school holiday period. She’s on a first name basis with just about all of the family friendly venues and she is always the ‘first to know’ about what is coming up for families to do in Brisbane. Be sure to contact her with your events to shout about them to our magazine readers and online followers – Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Speaking of online followers, have you liked us on Facebook or followed us on Twitter/Instagram/Pinterest/Google+ and Youtube?

If you do, you’ll be first to know about local news (see pages 4 & 5), competitions (see page 31), family friendly reviews and our incredibly popular ‘recipe of the week.’

We hope that you enjoy our winter issue. Share it with friends and family and contact us when the mood moves you. We are the only parenting magazine written BY Brisbane people FOR Brisbane people.

Perhaps you could write for us too?!

Families Magazine – Brisbane – for everyone in every family!

Janine

6-9

Education

Winter Play – some fun activities for when it’s cold outside.

Science – 3 simple science experiments to try at home.

10-13 Parenting & Family Health

Cooking with Kids.

Cooking tips for adults.

Winter Blues – what to do when fever takes hold.

14-19

Everything you need to help you create a special day for your 'someone special’.

Children’s Parties

20-25 Families Winter Fun

Circle the fun things you plan to do

with your family over the June/July school holidays and beyond.

31

Families Freebies

WIN cool stuff for the little ones, the older kids and even for adults in our fabulous competitions.

Cover image: iStock

Next issue: Aug/Sept 2014 – Deadline Friday 27 June 2014 Focus on Brisbane Schools & Education Readership 75,000 every issue. Published 6 times a year. For families in Brisbane, Redlands, Logan and the Moreton Region. © Families Magazine 2014.

Janine - Editor

A Party without cake is just a meeting. Julia Child.

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

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

Printed by Inprint an Enviromentally Certified Company

This product is sourced from wellmanaged forests and other controlled sources.

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

3

Families News

BRISBANE FAMILIES NEWS

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

Do you have Solar?

Do you feel you are still paying too much for your power even though you have solar? Then you probably are! There is a belief that having Solar installed is the “be all and end all” of your power woes.

For a very lucky select few having a Solar System installed on your home produces a significant instant result in reducing your power bill and provides an immediate saving. For the majority of us, it is not that simple (despite what you may have been told from the installers!)

power bill but it alone, if not configured to suit your individual situation, can in fact prove to be relatively useless. We all use our power differently and to maximise your potential return/savings you must speak with a suitably knowledgeable electrician.

This is very important. We are talking about potentially large savings, if you have your home setup to your individual households needs. Don’t put up with paying too much!

Call a suitably qualified electrician now.

A Solar System is an extremely valuable tool to save significant amounts on your

CableRite Electrical and ask for Kennedy 0449861166 www.cablerite.com.au

Chelsea dared to Help a Friend In Need Chelsea Prince, a year 5 student from St Eugene College, spoke recently at the Junior Assembly for prep to year 5 students with the support of her friend Tanika.

She said: “Hi I am Chelsea Prince and this is Tanika Greensill. We are here to talk to you about my friend Miranda who is very ill & has a severe form of epilepsy which has caused her brain damage. Miranda doesn’t enjoy many things but the one thing she does

enjoy is being in her pool.’

Because the family’s above ground pool collapsed, Chelsea and her friends raised $760.25 towards a new inground pool to make life a little better for Miranda. Well done Chelsea and friends as well as the staff at St Eugene College – we salute you!

St Eugene College Burpengary (07) 34914600 pburpengary@bne.catholic.edu.au

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

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Families News

Imagen8 Festival at St Pauls School In the June/July School holidays, St Paul's School will host Imagen8 - a unique two day festival for students in Years 4 to 9 celebrating imagination, creativity and innovation. Workshops will be conducted by St Paul’s School staff and community, and invited guest facilitators including Robogals UQ (robotics), Flipside Circus (circus skills), Shakespeare Hip Hop Rap Artist Charlie Thomson, ImproMafia Theatre Sports, renowned children’s author Pat Flynn and the Brisbane Chapter of Young Scientists Australia (fun science). Students will be able to choose two interactive and stimulating workshops to attend from a line-up of over 28 creative workshops including robotics, fun science, creative writing, product innovation, journalism, forensic science, cooking, dance, art, drama, barista making, film/TV, circus skills, app design, web animation, Japanese culture, vocal skills, theatre sports and more. www.imagen8.com.au development@stpauls.qld.edu.au 07 3261 1388

Baby & Kids Market at Mt Ommaney Special School A fun baby & kids market will be held at Mt Ommaney Special School at 94 Capitol Dr, Mt Ommaney - Saturday 21st June, 8am-11am. $2 entry with all proceeds going towards equipment purchases to support the education of our students, including standing frames, mobility walkers and power wheelchairs. There will be heaps of bargains on offer and plenty of activities to keep the kids amused.

For more information email Jim Green at jgree345@eq.edu.au or check then out on Facebook & twitter.

Grace Primary Preps Thrive at ‘Big School’ Prep students at Grace Lutheran Primary School are thriving on the excitement and challenges that ‘Big School’ brings. Principal Mr Peter Weier said students were coping really well with their transition from Pre Prep to Prep, making it their second home. At Grace Primary, Prep Teachers and dedicated class Teacher Aides provide an active and engaging program for the young students with the focus on fun, the joy of learning and making their first year of school a very special one for them and their parents. With this in mind, in addition to the National Curriculum, students have so far enjoyed special activity days including a Teddy Bear’s Picnic; a sustainability gardening day called Project Green Thumb and celebrated a special Mother’s Day morning tea with their Mums. Students are also involved in whole school events like assembly, school cross country, the athletics carnival, book week and chapel.

Grace Primary also focuses on providing a safe and nurturing environment for the 4 and 5 year olds through dedicated playground spaces and a strong Buddy Program, where each student receives a Year 5 buddy for the year. Special buddy dates are then peppered throughout the school year, giving students a genuine opportunity to build strong bonds.

Mr Weier says ‘Our aim is to make the adjustment to school as seamless, joyful and memorable as possible.’

Grace Lutheran Primary School is a co-educational independent school located on the Redcliffe Peninsula in South-East Queensland.

3283 0011 www.graceprimary.qld.edu.au

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

5

Education

WINTER PLAY Indoor Activities for Kids

I

t may be too cold and windy for outside play but winter is great time for indoor games, and activities that are great for facilitating kids’ development and for enhancing the skills that underpin literacy, numeracy and other school based learning.

Here are a few ‘old’ favourites Drawing – use large and small pieces of paper, lots of colour and different types and sizes of writing implements (crayons, felt tipped, chunky and thin pencils) – great for visual skills, eye-hand co-ordination, imagination and for developing pencil grip Colouring in – good, old fashioned colouring books are great for fine motor control and pencil grip Cutting up old magazines and gluing – helps develop visual scanning, scissor skills and fine motor skills Play dough – great for fine motor strength and control Dress-ups – helps build imaginative play and social skills Building blocks – good for 3D visualisation, fine motor skills and hand-eye co-ordination Board games – great for following rules, turn taking and building resilience Threading beads – encourages counting and

6

patterning (precursor to numeracy skills) and fine motor co-ordination Collage – ideal for building tactile tolerances and fine motor skills Word search – great for visual skills such as figure-ground (seeing things in a busy background) and ‘closure’ (seeing ‘wholeness’ in words and pictures), visual scanning and spelling Hang Man – another good one for visual skills and spelling Join the dots – helps with integrating visual and motor skills (which kids need for handwriting) and ‘closure’ Books – picture and reading books (both fiction and non-fiction) to browse through and read for enjoyment – join your local library if you haven’t already – a gold mine of resources! And remember…’a little and often’ and ‘don’t make it a chore’ is the key to developing reading skills, particularly for children who are finding the task difficult.

And last, but certainly not least…

Jigsaw puzzles – a very much understated and under rated activity that is great for developing visual skills (scanning, ‘closure’, figure-ground, discrimination, position in space), planning and problem solving, and perseverance!

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

Electronic games on devices such as computers and I-Pads do have a place also but most app’s are not as effective at developing the fine motor and writing skills which children need for independence with daily activities and for building success at school. A balance between the more conventional and the more contemporary activities is important.

Parents play a key role in helping to develop the foundation skills that underpin school based learning. Fine motor, visual processing and social-emotional skills impact on literacy, numeracy and other school based learning and are just some of the skill areas that can be easily developed through indoor play during the winter months!

Pam McDonald – Occupational Therapist - The Let’s Talk Developmental Hub, Woolloongabba.

Let’s Talk is operated by the CHI.L.D. Association and is a multi-disciplinary therapy clinic helping children and young people with language and associated difficulties to achieve and learn. www.letstalk.org.au 3891 9111

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

7

Education

SCIENCE AT HOME 3 Simple Science ‘Experiments’ to try at home

Children are naturally curious about the world around them. They want to know how and why and when and where? Science teacher and mum, Elizabeth Saunders of Prince of Peace Lutheran College in Everton Park has 3 fun suggestions:

GROW GROW GROW

What to do

Fill an old stocking foot with two tablespoons of grass seeds (from the hardware store). Fill it with 1 – 2 cups of soil or potting mix and tie off.

Decorate face with googly eyes and other craft materials. Put in a cup with water in the bottom and leave in a sunny spot.

What else?

How does grass grow? Why do we need to put it in a sunny place?

Why do we need to water it every day? What happens if we leave it in a dark cupboard? What else do plants need to grow? Why don’t plants need food? What is chlorophyll?

8

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

Education

FLOAT OR SINK?

What to do

Get a selection of items that can get wet such as kitchen utensils, piece of foam, bath toys, balls, pencils, toy car, plastic container, ceramic mug, ruler, clothes peg or anything else In a bucket of water or the bath tub, see what will float and what will sink. If the item floats, what happens when you push it under the water? Does it pop back up, or does it sink down?

Objects will float if they are less dense that the water, like a piece of foam. Air is less dense than water, so if you can trap air inside an object (like a tennis ball) it will float as well. Objects that float on water have high buoyancy.

What else?

Do different types of wood have different densities - how could you test this? How do large ships float if they are made of metal which is denser than water? Is it possible for one liquid to float on another liquid (hint – what happens with cooking oil with water?)

ACID OR BASE? What else?

What to do

Make some red cabbage indicator by roughly chopping a quarter of a red cabbage and covering with water in a saucepan. Heat for 10 – 15 minutes, strain the liquid into a bowl and discard the cabbage pieces. Let the purple solution cool. RCI will change colour depending on the pH of a solution – how acidic or basic it is.

What happens if you add more vinegar? or bicarb? or RCI? Can you get the colours to change back? What happens when you mix RCI with other substances like detergent, or lemon juice, or milk? Why does this happen?

Go outside or to an area that can get wet and messy. Get a cup of water (neutral), of vinegar (acid), and of bicarb-soda mixed in water (alkali/ base). Add a spoonful of RCI to each – what happens? Stand back and mix the vinegar and bicarb solutions together – what happens to the mixture? What colour does it go? Notice anything else?

Elizabeth Saunders of Prince of Peace Lutheran College is a teacher, mother, student and explorer of the scientific world. She is specialities in gifted, science and inclusive education and is passionate about social justice, empowerment, creativity and curiosity.

She is confident that children are natural scientists and should be given opportunities to explore and understand their world.

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www.sortorganisesupport.com.au Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

9

Parenting

Kids in the Kitchen I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again kids love to cook! The hustle and bustle of a busy kitchen can be fascinating for young children. Watching steam rise from pots and being devoured by intriguing aromas is enough to transport them to a magical playground that is full of adventure. The kitchen holds a world of opportunities for children.

Why Help Children Cook?

Tips for Cooking with Kids

Helps to improve reading and maths skills

1. Encourage young children to add their own measure of creativity with easy, noheat recipes. Create recipe cards (or google them) for non-readers by drawing pictures on index cards.

Encourages children to see a task through from beginning to end Listening to instructions aids concentration Planning and making choices teaches responsibility Creates a curious and positive association with food Healthy eating becomes more appealing – and likely Improves motor skills – both fine and gross Links food in the fields to food on the plate (provenance) Demonstrates the value of working as a team and taking turns Reduces fussy eating habits Emboldens, builds confidence and self esteem Nurtures relationships and promotes bonding Creative endeavours fuel kids’ imaginations Organisational and time management skills are learned Opportunity to learn about other cultures’ cuisine Knowledge of food hygiene and cleanliness is vital for wellbeing.

2. Choose a recipe that you’ve done before so there will be no surprises and is not overly difficult (too many steps, specialized cooking techniques, etc.) for your child.

3. Gather, or at least know you have all ingredients needed, prior to starting a recipe with your child.

4. Children can use either knives designed for little ones or a butter knife to cut things. This is a good opportunity to teach knife safety.

5. Start earlier than you think is necessary if you want to be finished by a certain time 6. Be prepared for tasting, spills and a general mess – try to see the benefit of this exploration In most households, the kitchen is where the action is. Sharing your kitchen with your children encourages their interest in cooking. It’s also a fun way to encourage lifelong healthy eating habits. Like adults,

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

little ones have their own ideas about how things should be done, which of course includes cooking. But the mess and extra time spent going at a slower pace is good on so many levels, the pay off so great, that it makes it all worth it. !! Kitchens are dangerous places – for kids of all ages – so certain ground rules need to be followed. Knives, electrical appliances and hot stoves are all hazards. So too is carrying a pot of hot water to the sink when there’s a small person nearby. You can use the kitchen environment to teach your child about safety!!

Roanne Scott from Ro&Co www.roandco.biz

WIN To WIN a copy of ‘Healthy Mumma, Healthy Bubba’

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Parenting

Weeknight Winners for Busy Parents I’ll do something a bit different for the kids if hubby & I really want something spicy or fancy, but the rest of the time, it’s one meal for all!

5. Get interactive and mix things up. Kids love getting involved in the kitchen, so where possible, get them to help. Whether it’s constructing their own rice paper rolls or topping their own mini pizzas, they’ll love the sense of achievement in preparing their own food. Even doing something different like a funny plate, or eating in the backyard, will break up what can be a mundane dinner routine.

With these tips, you’ll be serving up weeknight winners in no time!

I

Vanessa Gibson is the popular Morning Show host on 96.5FM and busy wife and parent. You can follow her blog at www.mumsinthemix.com.au or on Twitter @nessgibson

t can be really hard as a busy parent, to keep on top of the dinner dilemma. Not only do we have to consider the likes and dislikes of each child (and partner!), we have budget, time and health considerations. To keep this up night after night, while trying to think of new and exciting dishes to serve, can be slightly overwhelming!

So here are my top tips for weeknight cooking: 1. Does the recipe pass the “Play School test”? Can I prepare this meal from start to finish, during one episode of Play School? I generally look for meals that take a maximum of 30 minutes – but recipes that are quick to put together, then spend some time in the oven or slow cooker are suitable too.

2. Does is contain vegetables? I try to be pretty healthconscious when serving up dinner. We do have the odd “treat” meal, but on the whole, I like to keep things pretty nutritious. If a recipe doesn’t have any or many vegetables, think about how you can add some in – often a grated carrot and zucchini will do the job! Even if you don’t think your child will like a particular vegetable, serve a little bit up to them anyway and encourage them to taste it, without forcing them to finish it. You never know – one day, they might decide they love it!

3. Will it break the budget? It’s so easy to over-spend at the supermarket, but it’s easier than you think to be thrifty. I often lessen the quantity of meat in my meals to make it stretch that bit further. If I buy 500g of mince or chicken, I usually split it and get two meals out of it. If the meal needs bulking up, use more veges or a tin of lentils or chickpeas (at $1 a pop, these are an excellent option!)

4. Make one meal only. I hear of people who make multiple meals each night to satisfy each member of the family. Ain’t nobody got time for that! I’m pushed for time to make 1 meal, let alone 4! When children know that what’s in front of them is the only thing on offer, chances are they’ll eat it. If they’re continually given different options, they’ll expect it all the time.

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

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Parenting

Winter Blues

What to do when a fever takes hold Winter in Brisbane is relatively mild. However, ‘coughs and colds’ persist and our very young (and very old) need to be watched carefully for signs that a cold may be something worse.

We spoke with A/Prof David Coman; Medical Director of Paediatrics at The Wesley Hospital to get more information about fevers in children; what to look out for and when to seek further support and intervention.

T

he body has an inbuilt mechanism that keeps normal temperature regulated between 36.5 degrees Celsius to 37.5 degrees Celsius. A fever is defined as a temperature >38 degrees Celsius. A fever is the part of the immune systems response to an infection.

• Symptoms and Signs of a Fever in Children The symptoms and signs of fever may differ in children of various ages, and will be influenced by the underlying infectious cause of the fever e.g. a child with a fever caused by pneumonia will also have a cough. In general common features that indicate a fever include; Feels hot to touch Looks pale Has a fast heart rate and rapid breathing. These are common

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

normal physiological responses to a fever in a young infant Irritability and miserable Sleepiness Muscle aches and pains Mottled skin is common during a fever in young infants

• Causes of Fever in Children Common Infectious Causes Viral infections: there are over 100 different viruses that can cause illness in children. Our immune system works on “pattern recognition”, so children are frequently exposed to viruses they have never seen before, and have no set immunity against. This is a common reason why the younger siblings in a large family (with older school aged children) are sick with viral illness more

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Parenting

there are over 100 different viruses that can cause illness in children Genetic Syndromes: some families have a genetic condition that predisposes to cyclic or periodic fevers and muscle pains (especially in the calves).

• When to see a Doctor

often than their older siblings. The most frequent forms of viral infections in children include the common cold, bronchiolitis, tonsillitis, middle ear infections, and the influenza viruses.

Bacterial Infections: middle ear infections, tonsillitis, and pneumonia are the most common bacterial infections in children. More serious childhood bacterial infections include urinary tract infections, septicaemia, and meningitis.

Less common Non-Infectious causes Autoimmune disorders: these are rare disorder where the immune system “attacks the body”, examples include rheumatoid arthritis.

Malignancies: conditions like leukaemia are a rare cause of persistent fever

A fever can be a sign of a serious infection, if in doubt see your General Practitioner.

However; the following are a list of red flags that should prompt a parent to see a Doctor; Fever in any infant less than 3 months

of age Unusually drowsy Blue or mottle skin a high pitched irritable cry or a weak feeble cry grunting vomiting and reduced oral intake rashes, and a stiff neck febrile convulsions (seizures)

• Treatment of Fever in Children If the cause of the fever is a virus this cannot be treated with antibiotics.

Give the child adequate fluids and bed rest, which are important aspects of helping a child’s immune system fight

an infection. Children have a higher metabolic demand for glucose than adults, especially at times of illness, so remember to provide fluids that contain glucose. This is especially important if a child in vomiting. The prevention of low blood sugar is very important in children.

It is reasonable to use paracetamol in situations where the temperature is > 38.5 degrees Celsius, or where the child is miserable or in pain. It is vital that you follow the dosage instruction; giving double disease can create a paracetamol overdose. Lastly always avoid Aspirin in children; there is a significant risk of severe acute liver damage in children taking Aspirin.

Fevers are common in children and are usually a symptom of an underlying infection. Viral infections are the most common cause of fevers in children, but they cannot be treated with antibiotics.

If you are concerned about your young infant with a fever you should see your General Practitioner.

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 4 - June/July 2014

13

Party Time

Party Planning 101 for Busy Parents In the era of fabulously busy working and multitasking parents (let's call ourselves "BMP"s!) the best party ideas are those which take up as little organisation time as possible for maximum results!

So let's narrow it down to 4 easy steps: 1. Decide on the date/time/theme and venue.

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

2. If your kids are at school or daycare, get a class contact list from the school office and email or text your invitation around with your mobile phone number as the RSVP. 3 weeks out from party date is perfect timing for invites - any longer and people can't think that far ahead.

3. Decide if you are going to invite the whole class or just a few close friends.

4. Decide how the children will be entertained - at home or at an external venue? Do you organise games yourself - or call in an entertainer?

5 - 6 years old boys and girls are still generally happy to play and celebrate birthdays together with a large group of friends.

Remember parties can also be perfect opportunities to meet the parents of your kids’ friends/organise play dates/car pools for upcoming events as well as important social interaction skill/ learning times for the kids. If your group is going to be larger than 20 and space is limited at home - the local park is the perfect option - just make sure you pick a spot that is easy to find and is close to public amenities! Kids can run around with their friends to their hearts content while Mums, Dads, grandparents and other guests can catch up/introduce themselves and mingle. Call it a "Sports Party", "Little Olympics," ‘Superhero Party’, "Magical Fairy" or "Garden" party. Activities such as running relays/

hopping races/running backwards races/duck duck goose/ what's the time?/treasure hunt for Freddo frogs or lollipops are easy activities to organise and don't require many props or paraphernalia - just "Ready, Set, Go! Keep food options relaxed - snacks such as popcorn, pre-cut frozen orange quarters, and watermelon triangles are easy to transport in large quantities safely secured in your favourite Tupperware. An esky filled with ice and your favourite brand of mini water bottles is all you really need to complete a happy park party.

7 - 12 year olds boys and girls are pretty discerning and demanding when it comes to celebrating with their peers these days! It's at this age when investing in an experienced games facilitator or party host might be a good idea - as you are also investing in yourself and giving yourself space and time to organise some simple yummy food options. Party time is no time to stress - find a happy medium between outsourcing some elements while still having some of your own creative input. Here are some fun and easy themes to run with at home that you can get together in no time: Final tip - 'Make a firm decision' and PLAN AHEAD! Time is always in short supply so start picking up bits and pieces in your shopping travels and before you know it you will be throwing a fabulous party together like any professional event organiser!

Katie Galeazzi. Chief Fairy Godmother The Good Fairies

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

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Party Time

I

s the reason kids like performing magic at home for friends and family and the reason they like watching a birthday party magic show the same?

Let’s look at why kids love a birthday party magic show. Surprisingly I don’t think it is about the magic tricks. The magic is just a vehicle for fun and laughter. The premise of many magic tricks is that something is going wrong for the magician, in some way or another the magician is in trouble, the kids can see the solution but frustratingly for them the magician cannot, so the children will yell, scream and shout at the top of their lungs indicating they are smarter than this adult, it’s a big change from their normal lives where adults always know what’s best, it’s a time for the children to shine and point out the obvious to the silly, forgetful, adult magician. They become smarter than the adult. It is a very enjoyable moment for me, when I hear the kids going crazy trying to explain to me, something that is obvious to them.

Of course, this is a magic show, so the big delight is when what seemed the

obvious solution to the children, is often resolved in a startling way, using magic.

It’s like leading them down the garden path and then taking a sharp right hand turn, something unexpected happens to resolve the issue, the shouting stops, that is when the gasps of amazement come, the laughter, the release, the wows!!

Kids love to laugh, kids love to help and interact, kids love to feel they are smarter than adults

Kids love to laugh, kids love to help and interact, kids love to feel they are smarter than adults and kids love a startling, unexpected happening in a safe controlled environment. A magic show is the only vehicle that can do all this; it is a rollercoaster ride of fun, laughter and emotion. I think that is why kids love a magic show.

parent will want to instil in their child, and all done in a fun way without it seeming like work for the child, it cannot get any better than that.

If your child shows any interest in learning magic at home it should be enthusiastically encouraged. Learning magic has so many benefits for a young child, it encourages reading, concentration, repetitious practice, manual dexterity, hand/eye coordination, it builds confidence, increases social skills, gives pride and a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment, oh my, I could go on and on about it, so many positive things a

Learning a new skill like magic, that will surprise and entertain friends and adults and give that warm sense of satisfaction and allow you to have some knowledge that you can explain was definitely one of the reasons why I liked magic as a child, and I think I am no different to why any child likes magic.

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Why do Kids Love Magic?

Glen Rhodes Ph 3300 1741 e. glen@kidspartymagic.com.au www.KidsPartyMagic.com.au

Enchanted Childrens Entertainment Bring your child’s imagination to life with top notch performers as Fairies, Mermaids, Princess’s and Pirates Interactive Story-telling, Bubble fun, Gold pixie dust, Face-painting, Balloon-twisting, Games and Dancing Call Fairy Donna on 0400218423 email: fairylandparties@gmail.com

www.fairylandparties.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

15

Party Time

Brisbane Party Experts We love this feature!

Whether you are an ‘out-sourcing’ parent or the kind who likes to do it all yourself, we’ve listed everyone and everything you need to know in Brisbane (and surrounds) to help you create a wonderful, special day for your ‘someone special’.

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Be your own party planner – a list of products & services to help you throw the perfect party!

Aussie Jumping Castles Looking for some inflatable entertainment for your next event? It’s easy to find the perfect solution for your needs on their website. Tired of the same old party treats and tricks?

Pump up the fun in your parties with their huge range of bouncing castles and party entertainment! 0466 875 366 www.aussiejumpingcastles.com Big Lolly Taking the time to prepare, matching the lollies and the decorations, making it quirky and unique.... That's what makes a celebration great. www.biglolly.com.au

Brisbane Character Hire Looking for something different for your child’s special day?

Why not try Brisbane Character Hire Kids Parties! They offer a service that will see your party be the envy of all your friends, with a cast of friendly hosts they offer packages that include mascots, jumping castles, cakes, face painting and more.

No matter how big or small your party is they cater for it all. Why not contact them today to discuss how they can make all your child’s dreams come true. Contact Amanda on 0415816386 / 0417451980 email brisbanecharacterhire@yahoo.com.au or like them on Facebook.

Over 30 characters!

Brisbane Party Castles They provide a professional service from setting up, cleaning and packing away their jumping castles and most importantly, ensuring a fun day is had by all. 0487 955 233  www.brisbanepartycastles.com.au Carz Partys They come and visit you with their really cool car. They are available to be booked in 1/2 hour, 1 hour and 2 hour blocks. 0404 375 460  www.facebook. com/carzparty Celebrating the Occasion can help busy parents plan a stress free Birthday Party!

Give them your theme and let them take care of the rest! 0429 878 001  www.facebook.com/pages/Celebratingthe-Occasion Click for Cakes Clickforcakes.com.au offers a huge range of standard and Custom Cakes. 07 3277 5566  www.clickforcakes.com.au Daydream Parties specialises in paper ware for any celebration.

All their party ware is handmade and personalised, making it truly unique.

All you need to do is provide them with your colour scheme, theme and your guest list and allow them to custom make items of your choice and personalise them to make each guest feel special.

They make Favour Boxes, Buntings, Rosettes, Cupcake Toppers, Cupcake Cases, Invites and Straw Slides. Give them a call and they can set up a meeting to showcase some of their work. They would love to make your celebration, big or small one to remember. Visit them on  facebook.com/daydream-parties or www.daydreamparties.com.au Fancy Pants Party Stylists They strive to be budget conscious and can provide invitations, lolly bags, decorations, lolly buffets and much more, complete with party set up and dismantle.  Contact them via Facebook (Fancy Pants Party Stylists) or email info@ fancypantsparties.com.au

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

Geanii Cakes At Geanii Cakes, making your cake wishes come true, they strive to create a cake that will be a beautiful focal point at your event. Their registered council approved kitchen is based in Scarborough, north of Brisbane. They love to make beautiful custom cakes, and specialise in children’s birthday cakes, novelty significant milestones and even wedding cakes. Whether your child is a Peppa fan, superheroes, Hoot or Hootabelle, there is no cake wish Geanii Cakes can't make come true. 0410584349  www.geaniicakes.com.au Inspired by Madison is a one stop shop for parents who need extra help with creativity and organising a party to remember. 0432 766 585 www. inspiredbymadison.com.au Itsy Bitsy Party Hire are Brisbane based and specialise in unique and fun party furniture and accessories. They will help you create a memorable party which your guests will be talking about long after the lolly bags have been devoured! Their items are made & sourced so to inspire busy mums and dads to create fun and memorable parties for their little ones.

Items such as their Sweets Canopy will ensure your event/party is one not to forget! Party hire starts from just $2.00!  itsybitsypartyhire@gmail.com www. itsybitsypartyhire.com.au Laser Tag Hire & Party Supplies Their party hire service is backyard fun. The kids will be raving about what you did for their birthday party! You can rent either laser tag equipment, gaming inflatables, or both! 1800 266 587  www.lasertag.com.au My Kidz Party Buy party supplies online or let them style and plan a stress free party for you. Kidz Party Supplies, Lolly Buffets, Kidz Furniture Hire - Party Inspiration 0411 247 714  www.facebook.com/ MyKidzParty Quality Time Party Supplies They specialise in creating amazing party packages so the work is done for you.

They also have beautiful boutique partyware and take pride in their Eco friendly products.  www.qualitytimepartysupplies. com.au

Party Time

The Big Red Castle Company You supply the venue, food and drink, and of course the cake, and they will take care of the rest. 0466 111 380 www.bigredcastles.com.au

Party Entertainers

call an expert to do what they do best!

Amazing Fun Parties & Events They offer to help with everything from jumping castles to entertainers, mascots, rides, food and more. They create the fun memories! www.amazingfunparties.com.au Cheeky Faces Face Paint & Balloons Unique, artistic and colourful Face Painting, by professional, reliable, experienced and insured Face Painting Artists! 0458 776 378  www.cheekyfaces.com.au Circus Dreamz Children can learn how to perform circus tricks - even the big kids if they wish! All equipment is provided for everyone to have a go. 0419 758 724 www.circusdreamz.com Dreamscapes Parties Entertainment All their staff are experienced kids performers, have a wonderful manner with children, are 100% reliable and fully insured industry professionals. 1300 731 371 www. dreamscape.net.au Fairyland Parties Pretty Fairies, Sparkling Mermaids, Pink Princesses and Cheeky Pirates. Their entertainers are experts in dance and drama as well as personally trained by Miss Rainbow herself in their party packages. Games, dancing, balloon twisting, face-painting and magical storytelling. 0400218423  www.fairylandparties.com.au/ Fizzics Education Interactive hands on science parties where your children get to be the scientists! Plus they send a real scientist, science teacher or science communicator to you! 1300 856 828  www.fizzicseducation.com.au Funky Monkeyz Krazy Zoo Funky Monkeyz Krazy Zoo is the latest craze sweeping Brisbane. Kids absolutely love their giant plush ride on animals that make any party unforgettable! 07 32031712 or 0402665524 www. funkymonkeyzkrazyzoo.com.au

Magic Glen Do you want a stress free birthday party for your child? The fabulous, very funny, interactive magic show will keep the kids engaged and laughing for a good 45 minutes, sit back relax and enjoy watching the kids have the time of their lives. 3300 1741  www.KidsPartyMagic.com.au Meké Jewellery Making Parties come to you and supply all the instructions, beads, tools and bits and pieces required, you just supply the creativity!  0404 859 008  www.meke.com.au Mr Toot Entertainment Exciting & unique juggling, 'clown magic', clean humour and audience involvement makes Mr. Toot a unique and polished performer! The lovely Esther then gently paints creative and popular designs bringing smiles to each little face. 0488 828 668  www.mrtoot. com.au Old McDonald’s Farms A never to be Forgotten Nostalgic and Fun Interactive animal experience, with bottle feeding, hand feeding and brushing their adorable Farm friends, all brought in show condition for your enjoyment. 0400 278 028  www.oldmacfarms.com.au Physikids Party Physi kids offer specialist mobile party instructors for all ages from 3 to 12 years. They tailor the party to suit your child. Football or Dance? Athletics or Gymnastics? They can do anything! 0414 559 997  www.physikids.com.au Party Like a Popstar They love kids having the best time on stage being a true popstar. All of their Party Like A Popstar entertainers are fully qualified with various certificates and degrees in performing arts.  0405356764  www.partylikeapopstar. com.au Peebo & Dagwood arrive at shows in their famous colourful clown car, with its Jumbo motorised Wind up Key, (resembles a Giant toy car). They perform their comedy magic show with nonstop fun & laughter from beginning to end. 07 3269 9292  www.peeboanddagwood.com.au Shine Bright Parties Fun, Magic and Entertainment for children! Pink Princess Pamper Parties age 6-12, pink Fairy Pamper Parties ages 3-5, rainbow Fairy Parties ages 3-6, face Painting for Girls and Boys, all ages. 0403090885  www.shinebrightparties. webs.com Super Steph Magic Shows Book trusted kids birthday party magician, Super Steph, & her trained Super Kids Party Heroes!

Magic Shows, Superhero, Fairy and Pirate and Princess Themed Birthdays. 0411 114 709  www.supersteph.com/

Geckoes Wildlife Presentations An exciting Australian wildlife experience like no other awaits, with a host of amazing Australian animals including snakes, crocodiles, frogs, possums, owls, lizards and quolls waiting to meet you. 0432 953 797  www.geckoeswildlife.com.au

Suze Wild Design’s artists are insured and Blue Carded. We paint the favourite designs (butterfly and batman) and a swathe of modern designs as well (Pikachu and Peppa Pig). We also take requests. Kids love us!  Facebook : Suze Wild Design Mobile: 0405063547

Go Cart Wild Hold a "Go Kart Wild Karts in the Park Party" or let your child be the "Grand Prix Winner" in your own backyard.

3 Hours Hire, 6 Go Karts, Helmets included. 0417 432 113 www.gokartwild.com.au

The Fun Fairies Parties Their parties provide plenty of entertainment for both boys and girls of all ages including dancing, singing, fun party games and face painting. 0458 954 349  www.thefunfairies.com

Good Fairies For fabulous fairy parties, fairy face painters and balloon benders; or fairy activity programs for parties, look no further than The Fairy Specialists. 1300 432 474 or 0412 664 877 www.goodfairies.com.au/ Larrikin Puppets Their puppet characters are larger than life, bringing a sense of fantasy and whimsy to the events, which human performers can’t quite provide. 0430 086 835 www.larrikinpuppets. com.au Little Kickers Birthday Parties across Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Full of fun football (soccer) parties developed for boys and girls turning 3 - 7 years of age. Little Kickers parties consist of a series of fun imaginative non-ball and ball games including the ultimate penalty shoot-out. They will tailor games to your child’s age and around a party theme or your child’s interests: Animals, superheros, fairies, monsters, pirates… whatever they love. www.littlekickers.com.au info@ littlekickers.com.au

The Hire Engine offers children a unique and exciting birthday party experience.

Aspiring fire fighters across Brisbane and the Gold Coast will take delight in squirting the fire hose and riding in an authentic fire truck! 0439 090 304 www.thehireengine.com.au Wildcall Wildlife Shows travels with a collection of Australian native animals and each party is delivered by one of our qualified and experienced animal handlers. 0403 713 452  www.wildcall.com.au

Party Venues

– enjoy the party at a local venue and leave the tidying up to them!

Bim Bam Boom (Graceville) No Mess and No Fuss for mum and dad!! Leave it to them to make your child’s birthday party creative!! 07 3278 3788  www.bimbamboom.com.au Binxie’s (Ashgrove) can now host your child’s next birthday party! They offer several choices of parties, such as games, art & craft, or even a High Tea. They also have a Party and Toy Shop. 07 3366 8834  www.binxies.com.au Build-A-Bear Workshop (Chermside & Carindale) All Guests will get to make an unfurgettable memory together that will last forever. You will get a party leader to keep your guests entertained so you can host a hassle-free party with no mess and no clean up.  www.mybuildabearparty. com.au Bricks n Fun (Capalaba) They cater for all your LEGO needs. For Birthday Parties you have exclusive use of the Buildroom and eating area for 2 hours. 07 3390 1288  www.bricksnfun.com.au Carnival (Bulimba) Carnival Parties offers your child a unique, themed party, which includes an art and craft activity as well as traditional, party games and fun. Carnival Parties can also come to you! 07 3399 8840  www.carnivalparties.com.au Children’s cooking parties with Ro & Co (New Farm) A creative, hands on way for your child to spend their special day.

Their guests will love getting their hands dirty as they cook up a storm. Location: Taste, James St, New Farm. 0421 639980  www.roandco.tumblr.com Chipmunks Playland & Café (Various) No fuss, no clean up and guaranteed fun, Chipmunks is the perfect birthday party venue for boys and girls aged between 0 – 11 years of age.  www.chipmunks.com.au Flipside Circus (Alderley) It is the day on the calendar year that you will hear about regularly – “My Birthday.” Take the stress and guess work out of how to make that day special with a Flipside Circus Birthday Party! They have a weather proof venue that they welcome you to make your own and decorate as well as fully equipped circus trainers that are professionals at keeping a group of young, active children entertained, engaged and happy. www. flipsidecircus.org.au Funkee Monkees Café & Play Centre (Coopers Plains) Cater for up to 30 children.

They allow 2 hours per party and they have flexible party food options. 07 3216 6822  www.funkeemonkees.com.au Game On Family Fun Centre (North Lakes) Take the hassle, cooking and cleaning out of your child’s birthday party and relax with your guests as they attend to your child and give them an exciting party to remember for many years to come! 07 3014 0322  www.gameonfamilyfuncentre.com.au Gymboree Play and Music (Various) 100% fun, 0% cleanup. For 1st to 5th birthdays, enjoy an action packed play party, a playful music party or a creative art party. You choose the theme. They provide exclusive facility use and a specialist teacher. Let them make your party unforgettable.  www.gymboree.com.au Just Jump Trampoline Park & Indoor Play Centre (Redbank) 90 minutes including 1 hour jumping plus Free Indoor Play including Rock Climbing Wall - including your own party host who'll organise some games & activities. 07 3437 8588  www.justjumpqld.com.au Kb Equine Centre (Cedar Creek) Kb Equine Centre offers onsite pony parties to celebrate your child’s Birthday. 0412 336 861  www.kbequinecentre.com King Country (Thornlands) They specialise in awesome Parties for children up to 10 years. Farm animals for patting and feeding. 07 3206 4051  www.kingcountry.com.au Laserforce (Woolloongabba) Laserforce situated at 55 Ipswich Road, Woolloongabba is an extremely popular

birthday party venue offering a variety of packages to suit you and your budget. Visit their website for Packages, Prices, Holiday Specials, Kids Days, Party Nights and other offers. 07 3891 1031  www.laserforce. com.au Lollipop's Playland & Café (Various) Rain, hail or shine they offer a safe, secure Play Centre where kids can have hours of fun climbing, sliding, swinging, jumping and spinning. www.lollipopsplayland.com.au Mini Mates (Burbank) Mini Mates is a wonderful place that offers a real hands-on animal experience. 07 3349 1910 North Lakes Aquatic Centre (North Lakes) Take all the stress, mess and fuss out of your kids next party and have it at North Lakes Aquatic Centre. 07 3886 2022 www. northlakesac.com.au Ooniverse Café (Hawthorne) Parties are run by Nicky Noo – a positive speaking alien from Planet Ooniverse. Nicky Noo, can’t wait to meet you! Nicky Noo Parties provide busy parents with a hassle free positive birthday party.  www.nickynoo.net Petite Princess Parlour (North Lakes) They offer ALL INCLUSIVE Birthday Party Packages for girls including age appropriate beauty treatments along with traditional party fanfare in their exquisitely decorated Parlour in North Lakes! They provide everything from the printed invitations through to cakes, take home party boxes and everything sparkly in between! Relax while your princess and her friends get their sparkle on with a choice of age appropriate beauty treatment parties including Manicures, Pedicures, Chocolate Facials or even a Paparazzi Party or a Princess in Pyjamas Party. Mention this ad for a $100 bonus Sparkly Extras package for every party booked through Families Magazine. 3491 3588  www.petiteprincessparlour.com.au Ramp Attak (Geebung) They offer something different and the kids just love it! BYO party food or grab some food and drinks from the kiosk. 07 3265 6185  www.rampattak.com.au Rocksports Indoor Climbing (Fortitude Valley & Shailer Park) The Rocksports Birthday Party has become the 'best party I’ve ever had' to a generation of boys and girls of all ages throughout Brisbane. 07 3216 0462  www.rocksports.com.au

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Sassy Kids Parties From pirates to princesses; small indoor parties to huge outdoor events; plastic dinnerware to complete chair and table ensembles; their online store have the stationery, dress-up costume accessories, toys and party props for any size, age and budget. www.sassykidsparties.com.au

Rowdy Rascals (Jindalee) 'Fairies', 'Space' or 'Theme-It-Yourself' rooms, a Rowdy Rascal's birthday party is the ultimate in kiddie fun and parental salvation. 07 3162 0790  www.rowdyrascals.com.au Tea and Bisque-it (Sandgate) Party package includes: exclusive use of their party table for 2 hours, a choice from a range of ceramics, unlimited use of paints, brushes and tools, personalised birthday plate/mug for birthday boy/girl. 07 3869 1618  www.teaandbisque-it.com.au Thunderbird Park (Tamborine Mountain) Take birthday parties to the top at Thunderbird Park on Tamborine Mountain.

Adventure joins nature in this 112-hectare rainforest property. Kids can go wild in the great outdoors, a range of exciting adventures keeps them entertained and they will remember this party for years . 07 55451468  www.thunderbirdpark.com.au Tiddlywinks Dance and Play Café (Nundah) Tiddlywinks provides invitations, unlimited dance and play, individual baskets of food, reserved table for parents, free return entry for birthday child. 07 3266 8484  www.tiddlywinks.com.au We Play Family Fun Centre (Browns Plains) Wow your guests with their one-of-a-kind fully themed party rooms, gourmet cafe, black light mini golf, laser tag, lasertronics, balltronics, and, of course, the best play structure in the country! 1300 937 529  www.brownsplains.weplay4fun.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

17

Party Time

Overwhelmed and Melting Down CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Third in a series of educational parenting articles on ‘Raising Bright Sparks’.

How to recognize, support and extend our brightest kids.

I

t’s my party and I’ll cry if I want to! This may be the refrain from a ’60s pop song, but the equivalent message is frequently heard as a plaintive wail emanating from a child’s birthday party. With a child emotionally overwhelmed and melting down, parents are left wondering whatever happened to the ‘happy’ birthday.

“It’s my party and I’ll cry if I want to!”

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

Occasional upsets can occur in any gathering of young children. Why is it that gifted children often get so distressed in the midst of a celebration, whether attending a birthday party or large family event? A common, but incorrect, belief is that gifted children are socially and emotionally immature. The child who is intellectually advanced has a discrepancy between chronological and mental ages. Research shows that social and emotional development is usually placed half to two-thirds between the child’s two ‘ages’. Social and emotional maturity is aligned with mental age, the way a child thinks.

The ability to think in complex ways leads to emotional depths, so gifted children are often sensitive and intense.

Environmental sensitivity may extend to difficulties with sound, touch, taste and visual stimuli. Linda Silverman’s research indicates increased levels of food intolerances and allergies within this population.

Characteristics prevalent among the gifted will be more apparent in situations where children become emotionally aroused. A child may be advanced in several areas but with limited life experience, has not had sufficient time to develop the skills to manage overwhelming stimuli, thoughts and emotions.

Parents, who want their child to experience social activities but not become overwhelmed and distressed, can prepare with these characteristics in mind.

Party Time

"The ability to think in complex ways leads to emotional depths, so gifted children are often sensitive and intense"

I once carefully prepared a children’s party with gluten and lactose free food to accommodate the needs of an invited child; sited it outdoors for the noise sensitive; planned a range of activities to allow for different temperaments; encouraged parents to stay. I thought I had all possibilities covered. The child with food intolerances refused to eat anything; an introvert retreated to a bedroom with a book and a child had a severe allergic reaction when bitten by a green ant.

You can try to anticipate and plan; however neither you nor your child can control everything. Children might still feel overwhelmed; meltdowns may have to be dealt with; events that are beyond your control will happen. Remember to model appropriate behaviour during and after events; view problems that occur with perspective and introduce some gentle humour

related to how individuals re-energise – internally, from time alone or externally, from time with others. Temperament determines whether a child eagerly anticipates or dreads a party.

If preparing for your child’s party, plan the number of children invited, location and activities with the child’s temperament in mind. Consider alternating lively games with quieter activities to allow for children with differing temperaments. Identify a quiet zone for withdrawal from overwhelming stimuli, to provide calm and reduce emotional meltdowns.

If your introvert child has been invited to an event, prepare the child by discussing the need to withdraw from activities occasionally. Prior discussion with the parent hosting the party might prompt opportunities for your child to be asked to help in the kitchen, set out activities or hand around food, allowing them to mingle without a lot of interaction, which can be stressful.

Understand your child’s sensitivities; whether emotional and/ or environmental; consider how these might be accommodated

when things go awry – even if this can only be done after the event.

" If preparing for your child’s party, plan the number of children invited, location and activities with the child’s temperament in mind."

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Is your child an introvert or extrovert? Temperament is

at a party. Avoid dressing the child in new, ‘scratchy’ clothing for the party and discuss the use of discrete ear plugs or identify places to withdraw from loud noises. If your child has food intolerances, dietary requirements or allergies, discuss these with the host. Depending upon the child’s age and host’s response, you may decide it is better to provide food for your child.

It takes time for a child to learn to manage emotional regulation. You probably anticipate the types of social situations where your child is likely to have an emotional ‘meltdown’.

Try to prepare the child: ways to calm themselves; how to express emotions appropriately and assertively; practise a few phrases that can be used for self-talk or to say to others, especially in situations where a child might think the situation is unfair. If your child is prone to emotional outbursts, offer to help so that you can step in (not too quickly) or remove the child if you see a problem escalating. A child needs opportunities to try strategies

Michele Juratowitch is Director of Clearing Skies, provides counselling for gifted children and parents; professional development for teachers; programs for students and workshops for parents. Michele was awarded a Churchill Fellowship and will be conducting a STEAM Residential for gifted primary school girls 6th – 9th July.

Michele is co-author of Make a Twist, a resource for gifted students, parent and teachers. See Families website for more details.

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

that have been discussed.

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

19

Families Winter Fun

Geocaching for Beginners in Brisbane "Don’t let the ‘GPS enabled devices’ stress you out. In our case, all that meant was smartphones!"

W

e decided as a family to try geocaching in February this year, after many conversations that included ‘we must get around to that/it sounds fun/we love outdoor activities’. Like lots of Brisbane families, we are busy.

Like lots of Brisbane families, we love our great city and the outdoor lifestyle.

Like lots of Brisbane families, there are a great number of things we mean to get involved in. So in February, I bit the bullet and learned how to geocache. So now, I can explain to you how to do it and I am truly amazed at how easy and fun it was!

What is Geocaching?

Geocaching.com says ‘Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting 20

These June/July holidays why not join the growing worldwide movement called ‘Geocaching’.

Not only is it an outdoor, back to nature adventure for young and old alike, but after you read this article, you will realise that it is so much easier than you imagined! game using GPS-enabled devices.

Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location. There are 2,381,091 active geocaches and over 6 million geocachers worldwide.’ Don’t let the ‘GPS enabled devices’ stress you out. In our case, all that meant was smartphones!

Watch the video here!

How do you play?

You can log on to geocaching.com and read through the details. I set up a free basic membership by registering

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

a user name and password. I then downloaded a Geocaching app onto my mobile device. I used the one that looked like this: It was free to download on my iphone.

Once the app is loaded, your mobile device will use its built in GPS to locate you and to locate the nearest ‘caches’ on a map. I bet you will be surprised at how many there are near where you live – we could walk to our closest one!

You can click on the caches to get more details about them to help you find them. You just drive/ride or walk in the direction of the cache you are looking for and the map updates to help you find it.

Families Winter Fun What is in a cache and what do I do with it once I find it?

Most caches contain a logbook or log sheet of some description for you to sign and date.

Sometimes there are small trinkets/collectables – great for kids! Usually you can take something, but the rules state that you have to return something of equal or greater value. It’s always a good idea to bring along your own collection of ‘treasures’ to swap with those that are found and also to bring a pen to sign the log.

Who hides caches?

Anyone can hide a geocache! Even you!

They are hidden free of charge by all sorts of people in the geocaching community and added to the website for others to find. It’s that simple!

What does a Geocache look like?

Geocaches vary greatly in size and appearance. You could see anything from large, clear plastic containers to film canisters to a fake rock with a secret compartment! Your app and mobile device will give you information about how large or small the cache is, which helps you in the search.

Once you have found a cache and signed the log, (and swapped trinkets) it is important to return it back to its original position for the next geocacher.

Remember to close and seal any tins or plastic bags to keep them safe from the weather. You can then add to your mobile app ‘found’ and move on to your next cache. You will then start to build a map of found caches.

See! Easy isn’t it!?

And really that is all you need to know to get started with Geocaching in Brisbane. The website is a great place to get more information and there is a closed Brisbane Facebook group called Geocaching Brisbane that has a good bunch of members who can help if you are a first timer or even more experienced

and want to try something new. There are levels of difficulty shown on each cache’s information, so it’s pretty easy to start with the easy ones. If you ever can’t find one, skip it and try another. There are so many local ones to choose from!

If you do try it these holidays, feel free to send us your photos; post them to our Facebook page and with your permission we will share them with our fans.

Tell us how many caches your Brisbane family has collected and which were your favourite.

NOTE:

Remember when you are caching in our beautiful, natural environment that all sorts of animals live here too. Tread carefully, be mindful of where you are and respect the plants, animals and other humans in our environment.

enarji Health Coaching Specializing in Mothers Health & Wellbeing

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 4 - June/July 2014

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Families Winter Fun

FAMILIES FUN FAMILIES

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 (August/Sept 2014) send your entry by 5pm on Friday 27 June 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.

JUNE Throughout Jun & Jul Lost Creatures (South Brisbane) Lost Creatures introduces you to some of Queensland’s long-lost inhabitants, including dinosaurs, giant marine reptiles and megafauna. Meet some of our state’s inhabitants from millions of years ago and marvel at their diversity and immense size. Find out about the challenges they faced at a time of great upheaval and change. Queensland Museum.

FREE www.qm.qld.gov.au Throughout Jun & Jul Wind Tubes (Ipswich) Wind Tubes is a hands-on exhibition that challenges you to make a flying creation out of everyday materials and launch it into large, clear vertical tubes of moving air. It’s a playful way to explore the effect that moving air has on objects. The challenge is to harness the power of the moving air and discover the design that will keep your creation air-born for the longest time. There’s ample opportunity to experiment and modify your design, and possibly set the record for the longest flight time. www.ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au Ipswich Art Gallery

Sun 1 Jun Albany Fair 2014 (Albany Creek) Celebrating 25 years of Albany Fair - will erupt with an unforgettable and possibly uncontrollable level of europhic energy by this weekend. The fete is considered by most, if not all fete lovers, as the “must-attend” carnival fete. FREE www.allsaints.qld.edu.au Wed 4 Jun Sciensensory Day (South Brisbane) This event gives autistic children the chance to test their reflexes, explore colours and have fun with bendy mirrors.

During the time of the event, the Sciencentre will be closed to the public to ensure a quiet environment for the children and their families and carers. $10 per person. Children under 3 are free. www.qm.qld.gov.au Wed 4 June Cannon Hill SS Open Day (Cannon Hill) Visit the school to see what makes them special.

Have a look around, speak to their staff and students and check out their Prep classes. 9am – 11am. www.cannhillss.eq.edu.au Wed 4 - 7 Jun Controlled Falling Project (Fortitude Valley) Enter the laboratory of acrobatic impossibilities where impulsive energy and intricate action combine to create a thrilling experiment in control, as these dangerously talented and fearlessly curious acrobats challenge the extremes of their physical ability.

Don’t miss this high energy, familyfriendly show. Bookings essential. www.judithwrightcentre.com Also at the Redlands Performing Arts Centre (Cleveland) on 3 June 6.30pm. Bookings essential. www.rpac.com.au Thu 5 Jun & each Thu in Jun Ginger Sport Kids Soccer Workshops (South Bank) Throughout June, the Kids Club’s Thursday activity will be soccer workshops. Each workshop is energetic and promotes subconscious and play-based learning with the help of qualified and experienced coaches. There’s also a soccer bouncy-castle that will provide guaranteed fun. FREE www.visitbrisbane.com.au

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Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

Controlled Falling Project

Fri 6 Jun Luminous Lantern Parade (South Bank) An annual candlelight walk and lantern parade that welcomes refugees to the local community. Organised by the Multicultural Development Association, starts at the Cultural Forecourt and finishes at The Courier-Mail Piazza via the Clem Jones Promenade. Followed by music and dance performances in the Piazza that celebrate the traditional cultures of refugees living in Australia. FREE www.mdainc.org.au

Sat 7 Jun Belle Property International Trivia Night (Bulimba) With an International theme, each table will choose a country to represent then come dressed in appropriate costumes.

This event promises to be lots of fun as well as raising funds for Bulimba State School. www.bulimbaschoolevents.com Sat 7 Jun Festival Of Chariots (Brisbane City) Gather at Queens Park at 10am to join their unique, jubilant street parade - as they

Families Winter Fun Sun 8 Jun The Great Queensland Week Adventure Trail (South Bank) Gather your team and get ready to take over inner city Brisbane in the Great Queensland Week Adventure Trail. The event will challenge teams to solve clues and compete in challenges as you discover hidden secrets throughout South Bank and Brisbane’s CBD. Register your team for $10.00 www.qld.gov.au

State Library of Queensland

pull a massive hand-drawn chariot through the city streets – changing things up by bringing the festival to the people. Step back in time to experience the culture of the East - Live music, drama, yoga, fashion boutiques, kids’ corner with craft activities and face painting, henna and delicious, free vegetarian food and sweets. FREE www.festivalofchariots.com.au Sat 7 & 8 Jun History Alive: A Journey Through Time (Lytton) Queensland’s only multi-period living history and re-enactment event, with over 400 participants wanting to share their passion for history with the people of Brisbane.

From Vikings to Vietnam War Era Diggers, the program offers a wide range of entertainment (and education) for people of all ages. You’ll have the chance to see Napoleonic battles, historical dances, and a multi-period archery competition. You can also stop by the living history encampments to see how people really lived. www.historyalive.com.au

Sat 7 – 9 Jun Brisbricks Pine Rivers LEGO Fan Expo (Strathpine) BrisBricks members have been busy building new awesome LEGO creations to display at the 3 day Expo. Tickets online. www.brisbricks.org Sat 7 Jun – 2 Aug Charlotte’s Web (Petrie Terrace) When a spirited young pig arrives at Zuckerman’s farm, he struggles to make friends with the other barnyard animals.

But when he learns of his terrible fate, a gentle and extraordinary spider weaves a creative plan to save the piglet’s life. Bookings essential. www.artstheatre.com.au/children

Tue 10 – 15 Jun Shadowland (South Bank) Suitable for children 6 and up, Shadowland, is the ground-breaking new performance by internationally acclaimed dance troupe Pilobolus. As the first theatrical event of its kind to tour the globe, Shadowland incorporates multiple moving screens of different sizes and shapes to create an eveninglength performance that merges projected images and front-ofscreen choreography. Shadowland is best described as part shadow act, part dance, part circus and part concert. Bookings essential. www.qpac.com.au Wed 11 Jun World Thank You Day (Various) The campaign is an opportunity to make the world a better place by increasing the awareness of, and the need for, gratitude, appreciation and

recognition in society. World Thank You Day™ events will be celebrated around the world and can be a breakfast; a lunch; a cocktail event; a dinner; or any other reasonable opportunity to get people together to celebrate the World Thank You Day concept. Register your event http://au.worldthankyouday.org Fri 13 & 14 Jun Horrible Histories Awful Egyptians (South Bank) It's time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage!

Using actors and ground-breaking 3D special effects, this astounding show is guaranteed to thrill you as historical figures and events come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips. Bookings Essential www.qpac.com.au Mon 16 – Sat 21 June The 13-Storey Treehouse (Brisbane) Yes, that's right. Andy Griffiths' and Terry Denton's best-selling book, the one and only, superfamous, ultra brilliant The 13-Storey Treehouse has been turned into an equally brilliant show for the theatre. And you're invited!

Bookings essential. www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au Sat 21 Jun Middle Eastern Festival (Fortitude Valley) Join the festivities to celebrate Middle Eastern culture with traditional dance

Sun 8 Jun Logan Eco Action Festival (LEAF) (Meadowbrook) Activities will include face painters, live wildlife and marine creature displays. You can even pedal your own smoothie. All this plus a rock wall, giant slide, segways, henna tattoo, science experiments and much much more. FREE www.logan.qld.gov.au

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Families Winter Fun

Listings for everyone in every family! continued from page 37

State Library of Queensland

Listings for everyone in every family! continued from page 23

performances, music, cultural bands and entertainment for all to enjoy. FREE www.brisbane.qld.gov.au Mon 23 Jun – Sun 6 Jul Out of the Box Festival (South Bank) Out of the Box is a week of cultural activity crafted to celebrate and support learning, play, curiosity and discovery for children and their families as they learn and grow together. It acknowledges and celebrates the value and importance of the arts in education and life-learning. www.visitbrisbane.com.au Wed 25 Jun – 4 Jul Songs of the Sonar (South Brisbane) Songs of the Sonar invites you to grab a torch and explore the cavernous underwater realm of the mystical sea songstress Deepstaria Enigmatica. Wander around the exhibition learning about her life and become a part of her “Ocean Floor Orchestra” as she captures your vocal noises to create an aquatic opus. $16.50 per child. www.qm.qld.gov.au Sat 28th June Happy 1st Anniversary of Library refurbishment and Community Garden (Mitchelton) Join them for a one year celebration of the community garden and library refurbishment. They will be celebrating with some special events: Annette McFarlane Citrus care workshop 10.30-11.30, Potting activities for the children from 10am, Birthday storytime 11.30am12pm, Morning tea with special cake 10am FREE www.brisbane.qld.gov.au Sat 28 – 30 Jun Disney On Ice presents Treasure Trove (Boondall) Get tangled up in Disney’s 50th animated feature with Rapunzel and Flynn and enter

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the worlds of your other favourite Disney princesses – Cinderella, Jasmine, Ariel, Sleeping Beauty, Belle, Tiana, Mulan and of course, the one who started it all, Snow White. Bookings essential. www.brisent.com.au Sat 28 Jun – 13 Jul Heist (Ipswich) The Workshops Rail Museum presents ‘Heist’ - Be entertained by the robber with tales of theft & intrigue. Play cops & robbers with dress ups at Action Station.

Create your own identikit image of train robbers and your own heist masks & disguises. Get dressed up & take your own Wanted pictures, dig for hidden gold nuggets in the sandpits. www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au Sat 28 Jun – 13 Jul Silly Snow Men (Brisbane City) The River Stage in Brisbane City will transform into an enchanting winter wonderland for the school holiday period for children and their parents. The Silly Snow Men are coming to create an icy experience for children of all ages. Entry to the Park is free and there will be Tons of real snow made daily for children to slide on, build their own Silly Snow Man and make and throw Snow Balls. Prices of activities varies. www.snow4kids.com Mon 30 Jun – 4 Jul & 7 Jul – 11 Jul Activ8 Sports Camps (Manly West) Activ8 provides a holiday destination for children that encourages and inspires them to participate in challenging sports and activities. Bookings essential. www.activ8camps.com.au Mon 30 Jun – 11 Jul Story Lab holiday workshops (South Bank) Young creatives are invited to step into the Story Lab and explore the world of digital technology.

From minecraft programming to

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

digital storytelling, unleash your imagination while learning the skills and techniques from the experts. Choose the styles that interest you and then log in with their industry professionals for hands-on, minds-on workshops.

Their workshops are specially designed to cater for different age groups and various learning styles.

All materials are supplied for the workshops, so you can take home your own creations. Bookings essential. 8-14 yrs. www.qtix.com.au/

guest presenters, a great range of workshops and fun lunchtime activities. Bookings essential. www.imagen8.com.au/ Fri 4 – 12 Jul Brisbane Gang Show (St Lucia) The 63rd season of the Brisbane Gang Show will take you a journey throughout Queensland on some of our most famous transportation means. The Brisbane Gang Show is well renowned for their spectacular costumes, breathtaking sets and witty sketches and 2014 is not going to

JULY Tue 1 – 4 Jul Yo Gabba Gabba!

LIVE! (New Farm) DJ Lance Rock and everyone’s favourite cast of colourful characters will take some of the all-time Gabba favourites like “I Like To Dance” and “Party In My Tummy,” and mix them up with some awesome new songs. Now fans from all over Queensland will get to jump, shake and shimmy the sillies out at this awesome live show. Bookings essential. www.brisbanepowerhouse.org Tue 1 – Sun 6 Jul Powerkids at Brisbane Powerhouse (New Farm) Let your rugrats run loose at Brisbane’s annual children’s festival, Powerkids from Tue 01– Sun 06 July! The festivals theme is ‘monster circus’ and features loads of workshops, free entertainment, live arts, physical and creative community activities. Book now at www.powerkids.com.au Wed 2 & Thu 3 Jul Imagen8 2014 (Bald Hills) On 2 and 3 July, during the June/July school holidays take part in their two day festival, Imagen8, that celebrates imagination, creativity and innovation. They have a packed program that includes exciting

Imagen8

disappoint with a cast of more than 90. Bookings essential. www.brisbanegangshow.scoutsqld. com.au Sat 5 Jul International Tartan Day (Brisbane City) There will be a full program of events which includes performances by the massed pipe bands, solo artist Kathleen Procter-Moore, Cairngorm Highland Dancers and Scottish

Families Winter Fun Country Dancers. There will also be performances by Scotch on the Rocks, Moreton Celtic Fiddle Club, Brisbane Small Pipes Group and Celtic Connection Choir. Other features include a Scottie dog mascots display, Celtic displays and Scottish genealogy. FREE. www.aussie-scots.org.au Sat 5 July Teneriffe Festival 2014 (Teneriffe) Now in its fifth year, the Teneriffe Festival is known as one of Brisbane's premier community events, celebrating the suburb’s history, energy, cultural diversity, commerce and beauty. The one-day festival incorporates a rich program of street markets, live music, fashion, dining and historical displays. 10am – 9pm.

FREE www.teneriffefestival.org Sun 6 – 9 Jul STEAM Residentials (Toowong) Stuartholme is hosting two residential programs for intellectually and creatively gifted girls who demonstrate interest and academic talents in areas known collectively as STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths. Gifted girls will have an opportunity to learn alongside students with similar abilities and interests. Bookings essential. www.qagtc.org.au Mon 7 – 11 Jul Pirate’s Week (South Bank) The Queensland Maritime Museum at South Bank is proud to present “Pirates Week” during the July School Holidays. It all happens each day from Monday 7 to Friday 11. The program is for boys and girls aged between 5 to 11 years. Bookings essential. www.maritimemuseum.com.au/ Tue 8 Jul Kids’ Medieval Fun Day (Cabooluture) The Kids’ Medieval Fun Day has all the most exciting educational things to do with your kids in Brisbane. The Abbey Museum Brisbane is always a great destination for kids but these July school holidays, step back in time to the Middle Ages at Kids’ Medieval Fun Day! Bookings essential. www.abbeytournament.com Wed 9 – 10 Jul Far Out Forest School Holiday Festival (Mt Coottha) Come along to free school holiday fun in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha. Activities over the festival will include Animal Tails show, wearable art, circus school, traditional Aboriginal games, Rapt in Reptiles show, craft nest butterflies, African drumming and lots more. The program will vary each day. FREE www.brisbane.qld.gov.au Thu 10 – 11 Jul Challenge 2014: Workshops for the Gifted (Toowong) Challenge 2014 is an exciting two-day program of challenging activities designed for students from Prep to Year 7 who are seeking extension beyond

the regular school curriculum.

All workshops offered are fastpaced and rigorous, and involve challenging activities pitched at individual abilities rather than chronological age. Bookings essential. www.qagtc.org.au

From our Gardening with Kids expert and Nashville State School Prep Teacher, Sue McKenzie

Sat 12 Jul Frolicking Fairies (Carindale) Fairy, fairy in the garden, will you come tonight?

Dancing in a little ring, what magic will you bring? Come and help find the fairies at the bottom of the garden! Come along dressed as a fairy, bring your healthy snack and enjoy a fairy picnic under the trees. 10am – 12pm. $5.00 each.

Bookings essential. www.bazilgrumble.com.au Wed 16 Jul Bugs & Creepy Crawlies Eco-Art Workshop (Wooloongabba) Come along and create some bug eyed creepy crawlies using industrial discards.

Ideas include slippery spiders, quirky caterpillars, sticky stick insects and big butterflies all bursting with colour and character. $20 per child. Bookings essential. www.reversegarbage.com.au Fri 25 Jul – 10 Aug The Wizard of Oz (Redcliffe) Redcliffe Musical Theatre Company presents The Wizard of Oz at the Redcliffe Cultural Centre. Bookings essential. www.redcliffeculturalcentre.com.au Sat 26th July St Columba’s Wilston Great Fete (Wilston) The rides are the best yet, as well as {Families Magazine Favourites} Radio 96.5 FM broadcasting live from the school oval from 10am. Enjoy a day of excellent fun for all the family, from 10am to 4pm, showcasing live entertainment, both hair-raising and gentle rides, delicious food, fabulous crafts and a chance to win or bid for some fantastic prizes.

FREE www.stcolumbasgreatfete.com.au.

Sun 27 Jul Einbunpin Festival (Sandgate) Held in the heart of Sandgate, the Festival is held around the lagoon. The day includes something for everyone – stalls, entertaining performances by locals, as well as games and activities. Join Families Magazine Brisbane, who will be there giving out the latest issue and other goodies and competition prizes.

9am – 4pm. www.einbunpinfestival.org.au

For even MORE Families Fun Events visit our website

Gardening + Fun = Learning!

We love to learn in the garden at our school.

As well as the well documented health benefits of growing our own produce and enjoying the physical activity of gardening, we learn in lots of other less obvious ways. We read the instructions on seed packets and seedling tags to know how and where to plant our little plants. We write signs so that our plants are labelled and our gardens decorated. We learn to understand concepts of time when we read how long it will take for our plants to produce or flower. It also helps us to learn patience! We have to use our skills in measurement to plant at correct distances and to monitor our rain gauge.

When we harvest we count what we have collected and marvel at how one plant can produce so much.

In the area of science we observe life cycles and how eco-systems of plants and animals work together. In geography we draw maps of our gardens to plan our planting. Gardening plus fun definitely equals learning!

At home you can also celebrate learning with your child through your garden. Buy some plants, read the instructions, write a sign, measure growth, count flowers or fruit, or even follow a recipe to cook something with your produce. Join in the fun and your child will be learning in no time!

P.S. Unfortunately we had a setback in growing our giant pumpkins. The humidity at the time was so great that our pumpkins succumbed to mildew.

Never mind, we will try again soon now the air is drier.

We are learning persistence and resilience. Another lesson learnt in our Garden!

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 4 - June/July 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

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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 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

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 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

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

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

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

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

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory Ro & Co Kid’s Cooking Parties (NS) are a creative, hands on way for your child to spend their special day. Their guests will love getting their hands dirty as they cook up a storm.  Ro 0421 639980  www.roandco.biz

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 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 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 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

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 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 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 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 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 air-conditioned, 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

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 non-contact 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 continued on page 28 

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

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Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory  continued from page 27

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 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

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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 fully-electrified 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 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

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

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

Brisbane Clubs & Classes Directory 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 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

THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS

can have the very best dance education possible. 07 3886 4098 www.movementsdance.com.au

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 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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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: • Confidence and independence • Enthusiasm in learning • Setting achievable goals • Lessons tailored to individual requirements • Learning programs written by industry professionals, and run by registered teachers

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

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

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Shopping Centres

HVJCBDFZRI

Children’s School Holiday Activities NORTHSIDE

SOUTHSIDE

■ ASPLEY HYPERMARKET

■ ARNDALE SHOPPING CENTRE

Eco-Friendly Craft Workshops Create a beautiful eco-friendly artwork to take home with Reverse Garbage! 30 June – 5 July, 10am – 2pm daily

Teddy Bear Workshops Create your own furry friend for just $6. 8th to 12th July, 9.30am - 4pm. No bookings required www.arndale.com.au. www.facebook. com/arndaleshoppingcentre. 17-27 Cinderella Drive, Springwood T: 3208 0988

Timber Tower Challenge Build the tallest tower in 4 mins! 7 – 14 July, 10am – 2pm daily 59 Albany Creek Rd, Aspley. T: 3862 7222 www.aspleyhypermarket.com.au www.facebook.com/aspleyhypermarket

■ BROOKSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE Clumsy’s Smurf-Sational Show Join the witty and funny; clumsy Smurf in an entertaining show filled with Smurf-tacular dancing, actions and songs. 30 – 04 July, 11am & 1pm daily.

Plus, meet and greet at 12pm daily.

Smurfs Creative Workshop Create and take home your very own Smurf, in this puppet making workshop.

7 – 12 July, 10am – 1pm daily. No bookings required.

159 Osborne Road, Mitchelton. T: 3355 5211. www.brookside.com.au. www. facebook.com/Brookside.Shopping

■ STAFFORD CITY SHOPPING CENTRE Balloon School Mon-Wed & Greeting Card Making Thurs-Sat 30 June - 5 July, 10am to 1pm daily.

Learn how to make balloon hats, animals & flowers, and create your own card for a special occasion. No bookings required.

Located near Sanity Moose World Vip Interactive Workshop 7 – 12 July, 10am to 1pm. Girls can make their very own Glitzi Globe and Boys can build and race Microchargers! No bookings required. Located near Sanity.

400 Stafford Rd, Stafford. T: 3352 6699 www.staffordcity.com.au www.facebook.com/staffordcity

■ PENINSULA FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE Ceramic Plate Painting Workshop Monday 23 to 28 June. 11am to 1pm. No booking necessary Pizza Making Workshop Monday 30 June to Saturday 5 July.

10am, 11am & 12noon daily. Booking necessary 272 Anzac Avenue, Kippa Ring. T: 07 3284 8044. www.penfair.com.au www.facebook.com/penfair

■ CALAMVALE CENTRAL Mini Putt Putt Golf Challenge your friends in this fun putt putt course! 30 June – 5 July, 10am – 3pm daily Sandwizard Make your own piece of art using coloured sand! 8 – 12 July, 10am – 3pm daily. All activities are FREE and no bookings necessary.

662 Compton Road, Calamvale. T: 3711 2705. www.calamvalecentral.com.au www.facebook.com/calamvalecentral

■ LOGAN CENTRAL PLAZA Mini Chef’s Workshops Make your own yummy pizza1st to 5th July, 11am, 12pm & 1pm daily. Call 3208 0988 to book your place Dinosaur Discovery Come on an excavation adventure. 8th to 12th July, 11am – 1.45pm. Call 3208 0988 to book www.logancentralplaza.com.au www.facebook.com/logancentralplaza 38-74 Wembley Road, Logan Central

■ FAIRFIELD GARDENS SHOPPING CENTRE Toddler Time At Fairfield Library Every Wednesday, 10am -10.30am.

Meet other parents and toddlers for a fun session of singing, clapping and dancing. Ideal for toddlers aged 1-3 years. Call Fairfield Library for more information: 3403 8615 www.fairfieldgardens.com.au www.facebook.com/fairfield.gardens 180 Fairfield Road, Fairfield

■ MT GRAVATT PLAZA Little Green Thumbs Plant Your Own Seedling Mon 30 June – Sat 5 July 10am – 2pm daily, outside Target. Come and plant your very own seedling to take home and care for. No bookings required.

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 4 - June/July 2014

Terracotta Pot Plant Decorating Mon 7 – Fri 11 July 10am & 11am, outside Target. Get creative at the FREE pot plant decorating workshop! Children will get to paint their own terracotta pot plant to take home. Bookings essential. www.mtgravattplaza.com.au www.facebook.com/mtgravattplaza Cnr Logan & Creek Roads. T: 07 3349 3388

■ SUNNYBANK PLAZA Timber Tower Challenge Take the challenge! Can you build the highest 'Kapla' tower of the day? 30 June - 5 July, 11am – 3pm daily. Main Mall outside EB Games. No bookings necessary.

Free Calico Bag Decorating Paint and decorate your own shopping bag! Suitable for ages 4 – 12. 7 - 12 July, 10am, 11am & 12noon daily. Main Mall outside EB Games. Bookings essential.

Please call 3345 7500 to secure a place.

Cnr Mains Rd & McCullough Street, Sunnybank. www.sunnybankplaza.com. au. www.facebook.com/sunnybankplaza

■ SUNNYBANK HILLS SHOPPINGTOWN Tom & Jerry Stage Show 1 – 5 July, 11am and 1pm daily.

David Hamilton Live Puppet Show 7 – 12 July, 11am and 1pm daily.

Cnr Calam & Compton Roads, Sunnybank Hills. T: 3273 5611 www.sbhshoppingtown.com.au www.facebook.com/ SunnybankHillsShoppingtown

■ SUNNY PARK Free Frame Decorating Paint and decorate your own frame with glitter pens, jewels and other fun bits and pieces! Suitable for ages 4 – 12. 1 – 4 July, 10am & 11am daily. Outside ALDI. Bookings essential. Please call 3345 7500 to secure a place.

Cnr Mains Rd & McCullough Street, Sunnybank. www.sunnypark.com.au www.facebook.com/ sunnyparkshoppingcentre

EASTSIDE

Tinkerbell & Pirate Fairy Workshop Make your own Disney wand or pirate hat. 8 – 12 July, 11am – 2pm daily Corner Mt Cotton & Redland Bay Rds, Capalaba. T: 3390 2033 www.capalabapark.com.au www.facebook.com/CapalabaPark

■ CANNON HILL KMART PLAZA Card Making Make your own Birthday, Christmas, Father’s day card and more. 30 June – 6 July, 10am – 1pm daily. No bookings necessary.

Balloon School Learn how to make your favourite balloon character. 7 - 13 July, 10am – 1pm daily Cnr Creek & Wynnum Roads, Cannon Hill. T: 3399 3600 www.cannonhillkmartplaza.com.au www.facebook.com/ cannonhillkmartplaza

WESTSIDE ■ BOOVAL FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE Nrl Workshops Pass the Ball Competition 30 June – 4 July, 11-2pm daily. No bookings necessary Loom Band Creating 7 – 12 July, 10am – 2pm daily. No bookings necessary Cnr Brisbane & Station Roads, Booval T: 3281 0655. www.boovalfair.com.au www.facebook.com/Booval.Fair

■ REDBANK PLAZA Elmo and Cookie Monster LIVE Show Monday 30 June – Saturday 5 July. 11 am and 1pm daily with meet and greet at midday Cookie Making Monday 7 – Saturday 12 July . 10am – 2pm daily. Booking required - call 3288 5511 1 Collingwood Drive, Redbank. www.redbankplaza.com.au www.facebook.com/redbankplaza

■ CAPALABA PARK David Hamilton Puppets David and his friends are back by popular demand! 30 June – 5 July, Shows at 11am & 1pm daily. Outside Target.

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Families Freebies Families

Freebies Enter Online!

Fantastic Prizes for the whole family!

Enter at www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au/competitions WIN A bottle of Moet and 2 Glitter Glasses

WIN A Healthy Mumma Healthy Bubba Prize Pack for Toddlers (& Kids)

Not for Valentine’s Day…not for Mother’s Day… just for you and your Bestie – because you deserve it! Families Magazine has teamed up with Glitterlicious Glasses to give away this awesome bottle of Moet (750ml) and two champagne glasses for you and your Bestie. To enter visit our Facebook page and tag your Bestie to be in with a chance to win. To see more Glitterlicious products: www.facebook.com/ glitterliciousglasses

One of our favourite recipe writers for the Families Magazine – Brisbane Facebook page is Holly from Healthy Mumma, Healthy Bubba. Holly’s book contains 145+ tasty & nutritious family-friendly recipes especially formulated for fussy-little-eaters including: hidden fruit & veggies, refined sugar-free & nut-free lunchbox recipes. Her recipes are quick & easy and designed to get toddlers in the kitchen cooking with you. Holly has generously donated a fantastic prize for 3 lucky readers including: 1 x Healthy Mumma Healthy Bubba Cookbook, 1 x 350ml Cheeki Stainless Steel Drink Bottle, 1 x Portion Perfection Plate. Her printed cookbook is 80pgs RRP $29.95 with free Shipping. Follow her Instagram for tips and tricks: healthymumma_healthybubba and visit the Healthy Mumma Healthy Bubba website to download your FREE Recipe App! www.healthybubba.com

1 Moet Prize Pack to win

3 Prize Packs to win

WIN an Awesome Cake or Cake Toppers for your next celebration

WIN 16 Weeks of free Swimming Lessons at North Lakes Aquatic Centre

Birthday cakes are an essential part of every birthday party so if you want to ‘make your own’ but want to ‘top it off’ with something aweseome you need to check out Geanii Cakes – Making Your Cake Wishes Come True! They are offering 3 lucky winners the cake toppers of their choice for their next event – whether it be birthday, celebrating a milestone or event. Geanii can create a bespoke cake (or topper) to suit the occasion. Check our their website www.geaniicakes. com.au and find them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/GeaniiCakes

North Lakes Aquatic Centre is home to one of the largest Learn To Swim programs on Brisbane's north side. Operating all year round, the program is designed to teach the skills of swimming, water safety and survival to people of any age or ability.

Programs start from 4 months and progress right through to junior squad program. Your child will be nurtured in a fun and friendly aquatic environment with programs endorsed by Royal Life Saving Society. North Lakes Aquatic Centre is situated within walking distance of the Westfield shopping centre and soon the new North Lakes Library which is currently being built opposite. The centre features a heated indoor Learn to Swim pool, heated outdoor 25m lap pool and an outdoor play pool with water features.

Enter to win swimming lessons for your baby or child. North Lakes Aquatic Centre 07 38862022 www.northlakesac.com.au

1 x cake to value of $180 to win 2 x $50 cake toppers to win

WIN A Birthday Party at Flipside Circus for up to 14 Children

WIN A Family Board Game Pack for kids 7+ from Crown & Andrews

Looking for the best birthday party ever? It is the day on the calendar year that you will hear about regularly – “My birthday”. Take the stress and guess work out of how to make that day special with a Flipside Circus Birthday Party! They have a weather proof venue and they welcome you to make your own including decorating as well as fully equipped circus trainers that are professionals at keeping a group of young, active children entertained, engaged and happy. As the party people will be very active, they encourage everyone to bring a water bottle and for the host to provide some fruit and healthy snack options.

Circus birthday parties are great fun and they encourage children to help each other, play together in an active and healthy environment. Party packs include: • Party invitations for up to 14 children • 1 x 2 hour circus workshop for the child and their friends and family • 1 facilitator per 7 party guest participants • Insurance costs • Access to a newly renovated kitchen with fridge, oven, microwave, urn

With endless technology available for kids these days Crown & Andrews is thrilled to release two new board games suitable for kids aged 7+ that the whole family can play together. Winners receive a copy of both Googly Eyes and Fibber for loads of family fun. Googly Eyes (RRP $30.00) is a twist on the classic board game where a team member draws an object and the others guess what it is – this time the person drawing has to wear vision-altering glasses! The game is about performing under pressure while looking silly the perfect formula for family fun! Winners also receive a copy of Fibber (RRP $20.00), a creativity game where it’s not what you play; it’s what you say! If you don’t have the next card, fib – but don’t get caught or you’ll have to wear a nosepiece that grows each time you get caught. The player with the shortest nose wins! Great fun for birthdays, holidays or get togethers, Googly Eyes and Fibber are available at major retailers now and online at www.crownandandrews.com

• Chairs, trestle tables, table cloths

1 Flipside Circus Birthday Party to win

2 Prize Packs to win

1 x 16 Week Swimming Lesson Program to win

WIN A Family Ticket to UnderWater World SEA LIFE Mooloolaba Take a fascinating journey from the coast to the ocean depths. Explore 16 themed zones and soak-up the amazing view from the sea bed in our 80 metre ocean tunnel. Get up close to over 10,000 creatures including Australia's largest collection of jellyfish. Meet rare weedy sea dragons, resident seals plus over 20 species of shark and rays. With 14 fun talks and animal feeds, including their family favourite seal presentation, there's plenty for everyone to enjoy at SEA LIFE Mooloolaba. Enter to win 1 or 5 family tickets – an excellent school holidays day out! www. underwaterworld.com.au

5 Family tickets for 2 adults and 2 children win

UPCOMING ISSUES August/September 2014

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION Advertising deadline: Friday 27 June 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.

October/November 2014

TODDLERS & CHILDCARE Advertising deadline: Friday 22 August 2014

Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014

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