Family Times | Autumn 2018

We’ve Got Parenting Covered

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All in their heads Nathan Wallis on the teenage brain

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Welcome

I am regularly blown away by the intensity of my love for my kids, and by the intensity of my frustration. The latter might be triggered by anything – from toothpaste mirror art, to compulsive outfit changes, to Dora/Dinosaur Train disagreements. But that overwhelming feeling of love always swoops in to rescue me, and my kids and hubby.

Recently, I have had my kids’ brains on the brain. The crazy moments are no less crazy, but it certainly helps me to know more about what’s going on in their heads, and why.

In this issue, we delve into the development of this incredible organ. Miriam McCaleb gives us an insight into the amazing ways that newborns sense their world (14), and Dr Louise Porter enlightens us about the needs of our ‘spirited’ young people, urging us to throw aside our desire to ‘control’ our kids’ behaviour (17). We also recognise that some children’s brains are wired differently, and explore how parents and schools can work together to support these children and tap into resources available (20).

Adolescence is a period where neurological changes coincide with new academic challenges and opportunities, and social responsibilities collide with new friendships and freedoms. As parents, this period can bring with it a new round of frustrations and worries. Well-known neuroscience educator Nathan Wallis helps us to understand the monumental changes that occur in the teenage brain during this time and shares some helpful parenting tips (22).

As the leaves brown off and fall in anticipation of change and growth in seasons ahead, sorting out priorities for schooling is on the radar for many families. In our Education Exclusive some of our leading schools open their doors to help families make decisions around schooling for their children.

As my brain cogitates over all this brain development and change, I am left thinking about my own brain – and how it’s holding up. One thing I know for sure is that this parenting seesaw – of intense exasperation and deep appreciation, extreme frustration and overwhelming love – is one crazy ride.

Kate Barber / Editor

PUBLISHER Twenty Seven Publishers Ltd Lisa Phelan lisa@27publishers.co.nz 021 782 228 EDITOR Kate Barber kate@27publishers.co.nz ART DIRECTOR Rachel Brodrick designer@27publishers.co.nz

ADVERTISING Shelley Eccleton shelley@27publishers.co.nz 027 631 3288 General Enquiries hello@27publishers.co.nz CONTRIBUTORS Adele Cornish, Deborah Ward, James Beck, Louise Porter, Majka Kaiser, Michela Homer, Miriam McCaleb, Nathan Wallis, Sarah Lee PRINT Blueprint, Christchurch

Family Times is published quarterly and is a registered trademark. While all attempts have been made to verify information provided in this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions or contrary interpretations of the subject matter contained herein. The reader of this publication assumes all responsibility for the use of these materials and information. Any perceived slight of any person or organisation is completely unintentional. Family Times asserts copyright on all material published within Family Times and none of it shall be reproduced, wholly or in part, without the prior written consent of this publisher. Family Times reserves the right to edit or abridge all letters or other material, whether solicited or otherwise, prior to publication.

familytimesmagazinenz

@familytimesmagazinenz

ISSN NO. 2324-450X

Autumn / 2018

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T! U O S S I M T ' N O D

Contents FEATURES 6

14 Education Exclu

Blending families successfully

13

Pregnancy & public scrutiny

14

Baby brain: how newborns sense their world

16

The joy of theatre for youngsters

17

Parenting ‘spirited’ little people

18

A smooth transition for your preschooler

19

What are they learning in early childhood education?

20

Struggling at school

21

Tackling technology

22

Inside the teenage brain, with Nathan Wallis

i t Parent We’ve Go

red nG Cove

Education Exclusive Find the best place of learning for your son or daughter

Welcome Note

8

Books & Blogs Curated for Kids

32

Rotorua: a bubbling wonderland

24

Calendar of Events

34

Queenstown: the ultimate playground

28

Fun Zone

30

Get Crafty

PLUS, make sure you LIKE our Facebook page to stay up-to-date with happenings and advice, and for plenty of chances to WIN!

31

Giveaways

39

Family Food

41

Dining Guide

42

Dunedin Marketplace

43

Christchurch Marketplace

44

Activities & Entertainment

46

Story Time

Career in Tech ere are a lot of th at th n w o kn ad h “I wish I industry... It is ch te e th in s le ro non-technical ere are roles to suit th d an e tiv ea cr ly incredib Director at Seek any skill set.” la Brolan, Product Tech jobs exist in every industry and the NZ tech sector is set to grow by 9000 new jobs this year.

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Running for mental health

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some take you inside n Exclusive we the In our Educatio to help you find leading schools daughter. of Christchurch’s for your son or best place of learning Nathan Wallis neuroscience educator We also talk with l changes that ical and hormona about about the neurolog more discover nce, and occur during adolesce offer young people schools have to what different period. during this critical

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POSI T I V E PAREN T IN G

All’s well that

blends well

Mum, stepmum and blended family relationship coach ADELE CORNISH explains that successfully blending families is all about building relationships.

A BIG ADJUSTMENT

A child’s adjustment can have a profound impact on the pressure couples face - which is highlighted when children are around home over the holidays. It is useful to understand that children have been through three life-changing upheavals: the loss of their biological parents’ relationship, the switch to living in a single-parent household, and the transition into the new blended family. As adults, empathise with their experience of change and provide support and reassurance.

Children in a shared custody arrangement will go through a ‘settling back in period’ after staying with an expartner. Some may be quiet or subdued, and others may be overactive and attention-seeking. Allow them time to adjust, usually 24 hours, and show extra grace.

ROUTINES & BELONGING

You can create the kind of environment in your home where children feel secure and connected, and routines play an important part in helping them to adjust. When a child arrives for a visit, have a room or area ready where they can put their belongings. Organise a snack time and use the opportunity to talk about what will happen during their visit. If the visit is for the course of a weekend, try to stick to a similar routine each time.

Give children tasks to perform, such as setting and clearing the table, making their bed, and contributing to tidy-up time. This will help them feel a sense of belonging and significance; part of the family and not just a guest.

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Autumn / 2018

BEHAVIOURAL EXPECTATIONS

When it comes to behavioural expectations, the stepparent and biological parent can discuss rules or boundaries together, and gather their children’s feedback on these.

Discuss how family members should speak to each other.

What tone should they use? What words are not ok?

When following through on the plan, use team phrases such as, ‘in our home we will…’, rather than, ‘you will…’, to avoid singling out a child who may be particularly challenging.

These give strength to your request if you are a stepparent, and help children appreciate that family life is a team effort, with parents at the head.

There’s a saying that goes: ‘rules without a relationship produce rebellion’. If a stepparent comes on strong with rules and consequences, before developing a relationship of mutual respect and trust with their stepchild, rebellion is likely. It can take years for this kind of relationship to develop. So, the biological parent is generally the best person to assume responsibility for addressing any behavioural issues, based on pre-agreed boundaries.

NEW TRADITIONS

Encourage children to help with planning activities you can all do together to build relationships and have fun. Finally, take time out to develop some new family traditions: they’ll help build your blended family into a great supportive team!

BlendedFamilySuccess.nz

Adele Cornish is a mother, stepmother, author, speaker and blended family relationship coach.

She has developed a programme that teaches practical skills and strategies to blended families worldwide, enabling them to overcome the common obstacles to success.

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READIN G C ORNER

Books & BLOGS

Bibliophile and school librarian CRISSI BLAIR shares her top picks for different ages and interests.

The Walkabout Orchestra: Postcards from Around the World

By Chloé Perarnau

Viola Vincent Reporting… Underdog

By Anna Kenna

Tiromoana Publishing, $20

The concert is a week away but all the musicians have gone on holiday. Read the series of postcards and try to find each one in the complex illustrations from locations around the world. Find out about different instruments and visit places like Iceland, Russia and the Ivory Coast, as well as more familiar places like France and the USA.

Caitlin and her friend Megan discover a puppy farm in their area.

Alternate chapters follow one of the animals, Sissy, and the terrible conditions she and her puppies are kept in. Thanks to Caitlin (aka reporter Viola Vincent) and Megan’s investigation, the puppy farmers are exposed and better times lie ahead for Sissy and her puppies.

Suitable for ages 7-10

Suitable for ages 9-13

Wide Eyed Editions, $28

TOP PICK

baby.geek.nz

Written by Drew Daywalt Illustrated by Adam Rex

The Lost Words

Miriam McCaleb is a teacher, writer and parent, and ‘a geek’ whose specialist subject is babies. A voracious student of child development, and an obsessive thinker on issues relating to parenting and family relationships, Miriam offers insights into how newborns sense their world on p14.

Who hasn’t played Rock Paper Scissors? Now you can read the legend behind this timeless competition. Each great fighter is sad because they cannot find a suitable opponent. In one battle after another they triumph, but it’s a hollow victory until they finally meet each other.

Terrific read aloud where you can relish the wrestling-style announcements.

Suitable for ages 7-12

Written by Robert Macfarlane Illustrated by Jackie Morris

Hamish Hamilton, $50 Bringing the beauty of nature to life in pictures and words, this gorgeous large format book can be enjoyed by both young and old.

Meticulously painted illustrations finished with touches of gold leaf combine with finely crafted acrostic poems and puzzle pages.

Best read aloud for the ultimate appreciation.

Suitable for ages 10+ The Tale of Angelino Brown

By David Almond Illustrated by Alex T. Smith

Horses Wild and Tame Written by Iris Volant Illustrated by Jarom Vogel

Walker Books, $23 Bus-driver Bert discovers an angel in his pocket. He takes it home to Betty, who is a school cook. They call him Angelino and Betty takes him to school. He falls victim to a kidnap plot, but the kidnappers underestimate Angelino’s friends, and the angel’s own special power. Lots of humour, adventure, with underlying threads about bullies and what it takes to be a good person.

This richly illustrated book shows horses in all their variety – from prehistoric cave paintings and the Pegasus constellation, to Seabiscuit the racehorse. There are war horses and work horses, horses in fiction and in sport, along with explanations of their evolution.

Suitable for ages 9-12

Suitable for ages 7-12

Win! Autumn / 2018

Looking for information, inspiration or entertainment?

These sites caught our attention.

The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors

HarperCollins, $30

8

Browsing online

Flying Eye Books, $30

We have 2 copies of Viola Vincent Reporting…

Underdog to give away. To enter, visit familytimes.co.nz.

facebook.com/nathanwallis xfactoreducation Renowned neuroscience educator and director of X-Factor Education Nathan Wallis provides an informative narrative on how our day-today interactions with children and young people play a critical role in defining later outcomes for them. Nathan helps us to understand major changes that occur in the brain during adolescence on p22.

catchingthemagic.com British expat mumof-three Sarah Lee started her blog as a means of ‘preserving her sanity’ and ‘capturing the magic amidst the chaos’. She shares her musings on motherhood and on home educating her two younger daughters, as well as tales of family adventures, photographs and poetry. Read about her foray into marathon running on p38.

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Bottle Lake Preschool | Nursery | Kindergarten

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nO aPPOi n tm E nt nEcEs sary

C URA T ED F OR K IDS

Curated for kids Must-haves for the little (and big) people in our lives

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Ultra Teether Toy by Dove and Dovelet paperplanestore.com / Dalmatian Spot Duvet by Kip & Co collected.co.nz The Little Gardener Kit (watering can, fork and spade) paper-tree.co.nz / Tell Time Poster by Squared Charts fatherrabbit.com The Kiwi 123 Book by Donovan Bixley whitcoulls.co.nz / Light Table Lamp in gold by Aplin Creative thecleverdesignstore.com LEATHER BABY BOXER BOOTS IN CREAM by Folk of Oli paperplanestore.com / EYE-CATCHING KIDS’ FRAMES anstice.co.nz Autumn / 2018

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Middleton Grange School

Character, Excellence, Service for the Glory of God

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BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Bookings Open Term 2 Primary School : Years 1-6 Middle School : Years 7-10 Senior College : Years 11-13 Places available particularly at Years 1, 4, 7, 9, 11-13

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If your child turns 5 next year, you must apply this year.

We are known for our quality education as a compassionate community in which the God-given gifts and talents of pupils are nurtured and celebrated

A Year 1-13 non-denominational co-educational Christian School High quality affordable Christian education New Zealand Curriculum delivered from a Biblical perspective in a State Integrated School setting Christian values modelled and encouraged by highly qualified teachers who are committed Christians

office@middleton.school.nz 30 Acacia Ave, Riccarton +64 3 348 9826 www.middleton.school.nz Christchurch 8041

12 Autumn / 2018

Bump to Bundle

Oh, you’re

pregnant

From affectionate tummy pats, to speculations about gender preferences, mum DEBORAH WARD muses on the public attention one gets when pregnant.

N

othing draws attention quite like a pregnancy. A woman might have been going about her business, dealing with her own inner and outer workings independently for years, but as soon as she makes a cute baby announcement on social media, all eyes are on her and she had better prepare herself for some scrutiny!

First there are the belly-touchers. It would seem that the usual rules for personal space and consent don’t apply when it comes to an adorable baby bump. One minute the expectant mum will be standing in a grocery aisle, examining the ingredients list on a cereal box, and the next minute she’s on the receiving end of a stranger’s hands giving her unborn child an affectionate pat. I think my ‘Don’t Even Think About It’ face must be so scary that I never experienced this phenomenon personally – except once when I wasn’t in fact pregnant. But that’s a story for another day.

One delightful response to pregnancy, which every mum-to-be must surely experience, though, is the cheery comment on the size, shape and orientation of her belly.

Most of us were taught as children to keep our thoughts about other people’s bodies inside our heads, but it’s evident that this rule doesn’t apply to pregnancy.

Another aspect of impending parenthood that is rooted firmly in the realms of public interest is the number of

children the woman already has and is intending to produce in future. No matter what a person’s relationship with the pregnant woman might be (or, indeed, if he or she knows her at all), it is considered a human right to ask her which ‘number’ this child is going to be. By all means, one should be sure to share one’s personal views on her answer too.

That she’s not really a proper mum until she has at least two kids, that two children will be easy peasy, or that three is most definitely too many kids and what was she thinking?

A related issue is the gender of a woman’s offspring. If the expectant mother is accompanied by a female child, for example, a member of the public will be bound to comment that she must be longing for a male baby. Should the pregnant woman already be in possession of a girl and a boy, strangers are well within their rights to express horror that the woman has chosen to procreate again.

The naming of an unborn child is also a matter of public concern. There are some utterly ridiculous baby names out there, so it is important that strangers ask a pregnant woman if she has a shortlist that can be commented on. If the expectant mum becomes defensive about all the patting and questioning, Joe Public has that covered too. ‘Not to worry’, the stranger will soothe, ‘it’s just the hormones.

Here’s some unsolicited advice to help you out.’

Autumn / 2018

13

Ten Tiny Toes

Sensing baby

Teacher, writer and parent MIRIAM MCCALEB shares her insights into how Baby senses her world, and invites parents to meet her neurobiological needs by carving out time together and letting the senses reign.

B

abies are born with incomplete brains. Many of us have received that memo, either through parenting magazines like Family Times, through the work of not-for-profits like Brainwave Trust Aotearoa and Love Grows Brains, or elsewhere.

Father John Misty communicates this idea eloquently in his song Pure Comedy: Our brains are way too big for our mothers’ hips And so Nature, she divines this alternative: We emerge half-formed and hope that whoever greets us on the other end Is kind enough to fill us in And, babies, that’s pretty much how it’s been ever since.

14 Autumn / 2018

Having spent years (decades!) giving talks and writing articles, and trying to find ways to turn complex science into a useful party, I am wowed by the succinct artistry of that verse. We emerge halfformed and hope that whoever greets us on the other end is kind enough to fill us in.

Sometimes I ask parents to imagine that their role is a bit like being a guide in a foreign land. I think it’s useful to sit with the image of arriving in a strange country, where everything is unknown and the language is a mystery. Who would you like to meet you and help you with your bag? And will they be ‘kind enough to fill you in’? To show you what’s what, who’s who, what to expect, and what’s expected of you. What the knife and fork are for!

Ten Tiny Toes

BABY GEEK Miriam McCaleb is a teacher, writer and parent, and ‘a geek’ whose specialist subject is babies. A voracious student of child development, and an obsessive thinker on issues relating to parenting and family relationships, she loves nothing more than to provoke thinking about children’s well-being. She shares ideas and info about children, science, families and life on her blog baby.geek.nz.

But you have to work up to that. When our babies first arrive, and we are thinking of ways to be that receptive guide, we see that she has ways of letting us know that she’s hungry. Or tired, or over-stimulated, or hot. The mature guide in this relationship must pay attention.

You see, when babies are brand new, their experience of the world is entirely sense-based.

Those incomplete brains of ours develop in a bottom-up way, with the more simple functions being wired up before we learn the complex stuff. We learn to roll before we learn to make cinnamon rolls. Dig? The way Baby experiences the world will develop and mature just as her other abilities will. In terms of experiencing her world, Baby will one day be able to think about it, talk about it, and sing about it. She will use her hands and the rest of her body to interact with it.

But for now, Baby is sensing the world. That’s what she’s doing.

So let’s do our best to un-think about that.

Which is to say, one of the more useful gifts you

can give to your baby (and yourself!) is to carve out time to be together, heart to heart.

Your challenge: to try and meet her in this neurobiological space, where thinking dials down, and senses ramp up. Let go of the to-do list, distract the toddler, and wrestle this bit of time for you both.

Really give in to the scent of your baby. Take time to sniff that neck. Notice the feel of her sweet soft blanket and look closely at the profound perfection of her skin. Those pores! That glow! Bask in the sounds of her breath – all hail those sweet snuffles!

Being together in a space where the senses reign puts you on an equal footing as you begin the vital dance of developing your relationship.

And friends, there is nothing more important than that relationship. In the words of neuroscientific rock star Bruce Perry, ‘the attachment relationship is as important for development as the umbilical cord is in utero’.

So while Baby is tiny, take the time to connect with her on a sensory level. Cherish that relationship, and use all your senses to do so.

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mozarts.co.nz Autumn / 2018

15

LI T T LE WONDERS

Clowning around

These school holidays The Court Theatre has a real treat in store for kids. Written and directed by DAN BAIN, A Paintbox of Clowns is the ultimate silent show for loud children.

F

illed with slapstick, clowning and physical comedy, A Paintbox of Clowns will entertain and enchant all ages without the stars saying a single word.

Designed to give children a unique and immersive theatre experience, writer and director Dan Bain has employed traditional clowning techniques in order to create an original theatrical concept that encourages participation of its young audience members.

Although the art of clowning is a silent one, this show is guaranteed to be loud! Largely reactive in nature, the show’s mischievous trio of clowns will take the audience on a wild, slapstick ride.

From the very beginning, the show invites children to speak up and engage with the performers. Each performer has a personality trait: Red is brave, Blue is smart and Green is hungry. Combining their unique abilities, the

three clowns band together to solve problems along with their young audience.

As Dan explains, ‘there’s no fourth wall here.

Where there’s audience participation, the performers must be comfortable existing in an open, vulnerable state – accepting anything untoward that an audience might do.’

For Dan, the most important aspect of clowning is naïveté. ‘To the clown, every experience is new and exciting. And, because they’re unfamiliar with reality, it often leads to hilarious misunderstandings and left-field solutions.’

The very nature of silent theatre and comedy relies on simple storytelling and a heightened level of physicality, making it the ideal introduction to theatre for children.

The Court Theatre is proud to present family-friendly entertainment on the main stage every school holidays. All kids’ shows are recommended for children aged 3-7 and all tickets are just $10 for children and adults. Relaxed performances are special shows for those with sensory needs.

Lighting and sound are adjusted, capacity is reduced to allow for freer movement and there is a ‘chill-out’ area in the foyer.

There will be a relaxed performance of A Paintbox of Clowns on 28th April, 11am.

A Paintbox of Clowns runs from 16-28 April and all tickets are just $10.

03 963 0870 / courttheatre.org.nz

FREE Meet & Greet Thursday 19th and Friday 20th April 11am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm 16 Autumn / 2018

Corner Marshland & New Brighton Road, Shirley www.thepalms.co.nz

LI T T LE WONDERS

Out of

control

reflects on her parenting values after attending a presentation on ‘Guiding Children’s Behaviour’, by Australian child psychologist, DR LOUISE PORTER .

KATE BARBER

W

ith two wonderfully wilful young girls, the title of Louise Porter’s seminar appealed. Looking around, it clearly spoke to the concerns of many others.

In her presentation Louise examined two styles of parenting, ‘Controlling Discipline’ and ‘Guidance’, and the fundamental values and beliefs about children that align with each.

The parenting strategies she discusses are in our parenting repertoire already, but it takes plenty of practice: because, when you add stress and exhaustion and shopping for groceries to the mix, it isn’t always easy to respond with equanimity and grace. There are times we all want to scream!

Louise also challenges our ‘commonsense’ practice of dishing out rewards and punishments. It’s a challenging notion: to think The ‘Controlling Discipline’ model is rooted in a belief that children that sugary treats given as rewards may be problematic at a level can’t be trusted, and that they are motivated by external stimuli; deeper than tooth enamel; but, and it aligns with the value that as Louise explains, ‘when adults ultimately the adult is the boss, that administer consequences, either The overarching objective is to children need to respect (even fear) positive or negative, they are in guide the child so that they learn them. The basic objective is that the control of children’. child will do as they are told. (If only, how to behave in ways that are I caught myself thinking.)

And what’s wrong with that? Well, considerate of others – which is children have a deep need to be Louise contrasts this with ‘Guidance’ not the same as unquestioningly self-determining, and external where the overarching objective is to control can elicit resistance, rebellion submitting to parental authority. guide the child so that they learn how and retaliation, says Louise, which to behave in ways that are considerate is particularly likely in ‘spirited’ of others – which is not the same children. Ultimately, she says, dishing out consequences encourages as unquestioningly submitting to parental authority. While the children to think of their behaviour in terms of what they will earn adult is the leader, with expertise and wisdom, their role is not or lose, rather than in terms of its effect on others. to manipulate or coerce – because children should have equal opportunities for self-determination and expression.

When I got home, I crept into my daughters’ bedrooms and gave them each a kiss. When they are asleep, my spirited little ones look ‘It requires a shift in mindset – where the focus is on guiding children so peaceful; and, in those quiet moments, parenting seems so simple. so that they recognise the impact, good and bad, of their actions on others, rather than simply trying to control our kids’, says Louise. louiseporter.com.au

Autumn / 2018

17

LI T T LE WONDERS

Smooth transition

from BestStart Educare shares some suggestions for helping to make that transition into a new early childhood centre a smooth and happy one – for your child, and for you.

MICHELA HOMER

SETTLING IN

Settling-in visits allow your child to get familiar with the new adults, children and environment at a new centre, secure in the knowledge that you’re there beside them. They also allow you to hear and absorb the way the centre works.

Try sitting near your child but allow them the space to start exploring. If your child is confident, find a comfy seat and simply observe. If they need a little more support, look for ways to engage them, through finding an activity that you know will be interesting to them. Teachers will be more than happy to support you and your child. Just ask!

SEPARATION ANXIETY

Separation anxiety is normal. Prepare yourself by showing your child that you’re happy for them going to this new place and that you trust the adults around them. You may get upset about your child’s anxiety, but it is important that you remain positive while still acknowledging your child’s feelings. Teachers will support you and your child through this process.

Always tell your child what’s happening: say goodbye and reassure them that you will be back later. Slipping away when they’re settled can cause your child to become more anxious and start to anticipate you disappearing. Instead, go into the centre, help them to put their bags where they need to go, either take them to a teacher, child or an activity

18 Autumn / 2018

you know they will enjoy, and say something like, ‘Mummy has to go now, but I’ll be back later; have a lovely day’.

Then leave! The more you hover, the more the process is prolonged and your child’s anxiety will grow.

Ask the teacher to call you when your child is settled, or you can always call the centre to find out if your child has settled. They’ll understand your anxiety and will want to know that you’re okay too!

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

Your child will settle faster if they see your ability to build trust and relationships with the teachers. So talk to your teacher about your child, and let your child hear and see that you have confidence in the new adults in their world.

Your child’s teacher will be thrilled to hear about what your child likes to do at home and will want to understand their routines – so that they can use these as a basis for settling your child at the centre.

By knowing what’s important to you and your family and integrating this into centre life, and by developing sound relationships with you and your child based on empathy and understanding, teachers will help your child feel safe, secure and valued. Every child is unique – a taonga (treasure) – and teachers know what a special privilege it is to work with your child. best-start.org

LI T T LE WONDERS

Curriculum

curiosity

delves into Te Whāriki, the New Zealand curriculum for early childhood.

KATE BARBER

I

first encountered Te Whāriki, the New Zealand early childhood curriculum, when my eldest started Playcentre. I perceived it then as something that the Coordinator (or teacher) had knowledge of and responsibility for – something they would use to plan the sessions, some sort of checklist they would use to assess my 18-month-old’s learning. I naively assumed that ‘the curriculum’ referred to what would be taught, and learned.

First published by the Ministry of Education in 1996, and updated in 2017, Te Whāriki is founded on the following aspirations for children: that they ‘grow up as competent and confident learners and communicators, healthy in mind, body, and spirit, secure in their sense of belonging and in the knowledge that they make a valued contribution to society’. As such, Te Whāriki acknowledges the manifold types of early childhood education (ECE) available, and the unique values and priorities of families as they decide on the best ECE option for their children.

Supporting these aspirations, Te Whāriki acknowledges the diverse experiences that children have at and bring to their ECE environment. It does not prescribe what teachers must teach and children must learn.

Rather, using the whāriki (woven mat) as a metaphor, it ‘provides a framework of principles, strands, goals and learning outcomes’. The five Strands are Wellbeing/Mana Atua, Belonging/ Mana Whenua, Contribution/Mana Tangata, Communication/Mana Reo, and Exploration/ Mana Aotūroa; and these align with Goals that describe ECE environments that are conducive to learning and development. For instance, ‘Children experience an environment where

their play is valued as meaningful learning’ (Strand: Exploration).

Five years on, I have had a little more mileage with these ideas. Don’t get me wrong, I do not sit in bed reading the document. No, my bed-time reading is far less edifying – I am currently re-reading the Outlander series. But, when I flick through the pages now, I recognise the Goals as corresponding with aspirations that I have for my girls, and I love that these underpin the sorts of experiences and interactions they, and other children, have in early childhood education in this country.

You can find Te Whāriki online, and your child’s teacher will be able to answer any questions you may have about it.

New training resource for SunSmart

A

n online training module is helping early childhood educators keep young children protected from the sun year-round.

As any parent or teacher knows, outside play is an integral part of a child’s education. Of course, alongside this, it is imperative to keep our young children safe.

The Cancer Society of New Zealand has developed an online training module for early childhood educators about the importance of keeping young children protected from the sun year-round.

The module is free to complete and takes about an hour. It includes information about ultraviolet (UV) radiation and skin cancer risk, as well as practical advice for the early childhood education

setting, including templates and checklists. The module ends with a quiz, and upon passing participants receive a certificate and an action plan based on their answers to some reflective questions.

Kathy Warne is director and centre manager at Rosy Cheeks Early Learning Centre in Christchurch, and she attended the course at the beginning of summer. ‘I found it very userfriendly and simple in the way it was written and designed. It was accessible but also very interesting – it challenged some preconceptions I had about skin cancer risks.’

Teachers are encouraged to share their knowledge with their community where possible, and parents and whānau members are welcome to complete the module at home.

To get started visit: cancernz.org.nz/ early-childhood-sunsmart-pd-module.

Autumn / 2018

19

A Class of their own

Struggling at school considers the challenges facing children with learning difficulties, and the ways parents can support them.

DEBORAH WARD

S

ending our children to school is a huge step for us as parents – almost as big a deal as it is for the kids themselves! We want our offspring to enjoy themselves as they master the basic skills and knowledge that will form the foundation for a lifetime of learning. But what happens if our kids struggle with the basics and their progress seems slower than that of their peers?

An important thing to know is that learning difficulties are very common and there is a lot that parents can do in conjunction with school in order to help children make better progress.

If the school contacts a pupil’s parents to indicate that they might have a learning difficulty, the parents should be proactive in establishing what the school can do to help and also which strategies they can implement at home.

One learning difficulty that can be identified in approximately one in ten New Zealanders is dyslexia. Described by New Zealand’s Dyslexia Foundation as an ‘alternative way of thinking’, dyslexia can cause problems with reading and writing. Rather than focusing on the negatives, parents can help their children make the most of their learning differences. Indeed, the NZ Ministry of Education guidelines suggest that the ‘emotional and practical support’ of parents is a key to children’s success.

Train the Brain T

he goal at Train the Brain is to support and empower students with a Specific Learning Disability (SLD), like dyslexia, so that they can function at their optimal potential. Having administered a comprehensive psychoeducational assessment, the team of educators develops an individual teaching plan that addresses a student’s particular processing and academic needs. Options for remediation include 90-minute individual tuition or therapy, a full-day class, or small group activities. trainthebrain.co.nz

20 Autumn / 2018

It is easy for children with learning difficulties to suffer from diminished self-esteem, and experts encourage parents to find and acknowledge their child’s strengths, offering specific praise for achievement in their work. The Dyspraxia Support Group points out that it is important to celebrate the effort that children with dyspraxia – a condition which, broadly speaking, affects coordination and movement – put into tasks, as sometimes their efforts are ‘far greater than those of their peers’.

To reinforce the work children are doing in the classroom, parents looking to support their kids with learning difficulties can encourage some fun learning activities at home. Word games such as ‘I spy’ are an enjoyable way of encouraging children’s knowledge of letters and sounds, and understood.org offers a list of expert-approved apps that are divided into categories such as Reading and Motor Skills, which can be downloaded at home.

We, as parents, are our children’s most important advocates, which means arming ourselves with information about our kids’ learning needs. We can help foster a better understanding of our children’s needs by educating those around us. This can only serve to help our children have a more successful learning experience at school, setting them up for greater success in life.

A Class of their own

Tackling technology

Youth mentor and presenter JAMES BECK shares some tips for helping young people and parents navigate unchartered waters.

S

ince the first smartphones reached our shores in 2007, the world that young people are growing up in has changed. In many ways young people are navigating and exploring an uncharted sea of new ways to connect, communicate, play and shop. The tricky thing is that they don’t have a map for these uncharted waters, and neither do parents.

What is needed is some good technology to help you and your young people navigate through the uncharted waters.

Here are two suggestions: Fi Hi B ,J z ing co.n m e o.

Le icr l oe ndm t N .tre a w le ab ww ail nd v a A

+ You don’t have to use the egg timer in the kitchen to work out how much time your eight-year-old has left on the iPad. You can use OurPact, which is a FREE app that helps you to manage your family’s devices and internet access (ourpact.com).

As the Attitude Programmes for Schools manager for The Parenting Place, James Beck relishes working with young people to help them make better choices in different areas of their lives.

+ Home Network Security from Trend Micro filters the internet and manages all of your family’s devices (iPads, computers, gaming consoles…). You can set it up so that devices can only access the internet for a certain amount of time per day, and only between certain times (trendmicro.co.nz).

HOME NETWORK SECURITY

Time Limits blocked Charlie from using the Internet on his tablet

HOME NETWORK SECURITY

Website Protection blocked 2 malware threats on Tom’s iPhone

HOME NETWORK SECURITY

HOME NETWORK SECURITY

Website Filtering blocked Jack from opening 1 adult website on his ps4

3 cyberattacks on Emily’s laptop were blocked

Smart Protection for Your Connected Devices at Home Protect

Manage

Enterprise grade security protects all of the connected devices in your smart home, keeping you and your family safe

Easily manage all of your connected devices at home, in real time, from your smartphone

Control Powerful features help create a safe digital environment for your kids to use the internet, while allowing you to monitor their access

Autumn / 2018

21

Tweens & Teens

Renovation revelation talks with well-known neuroscience educator NATHAN WALLIS about major changes to the brain during adolescence, and asks the question on many parents’ minds.

KATE BARBER

22 Autumn / 2018

I

n his play The Winter’s Tale, Shakespeare refers to the ‘boiled brains’ of youth, writing that ‘I would there were no age between sixteen and three-and-twenty, or that youth would sleep out the rest’. The bard engages with a rather negative yet humorous stereotype about teenagers – one that sounds familiar some 400 years later.

In light of relatively recent discoveries about changes to the brain during adolescence, Nathan strives to debunk certain stereotypes – that ‘teenagers are foolish, lazy, moody and revolting’.

Tweens & Teens

ON THE BRAIN Opening people’s minds to the incredible, relatively recent discoveries on the development of the brain, charismatic neuroscience presenter and director of X-Factor Education Nathan Wallis provides an informative narrative on the different stages of children’s neurological development, offering valuable advice for parents across New Zealand and overseas. facebook.com/nathanwallisxfactoreducation

‘SHUT FOR RENOVATIONS’

The image of ‘boiled brains’ may not be too far off the mark – the brain is in fact undergoing major restructuring, says Nathan. At some point during adolescence, for approximately three years, the frontal cortex – the rational part of the brain, where decisions are made, goals are set and consequences weighed – is ‘shut for renovations’, he explains. A process of ‘pruning’ takes place, where the brain works out what’s being used and ‘myelinates’ (reinforces) those pathways it wants to keep.

one might expect…. ‘Girls’ brains grow faster’, he adds, ‘so it might be between 18 and 24 for a female. Whereas boys’ brains develop more slowly, so it might be between 22 and 32 before the male brain reaches full maturity.’ Nathan points out that ‘the research offers a yardstick measurement; it does not describe individuals.

Ultimately, parents are the experts when it comes to knowing their kids.’

The narrative gets interesting when you factor in a person’s birth order. The first-born child has the advantage of having mum or dad ‘in their face’ more when they are a baby, and tends to spend At some point during more time in the ‘dyad relationship’ with the adolescence, for primary parent or carer – approximately three because, by the time Baby years, the frontal cortex 2 comes along, mum and dad also have a toddler, he – the rational part of the brain, where decisions are explains. This is awesome for the development of made, goals are set and the brain of Baby 1 – and the positive outcomes consequences weighed – are long-term. When the is ‘shut for renovations’. first-born is a girl, they are doubly advantaged.

During this time, the limbic system – the emotional, and sexual, brain – fires on all cylinders. In fact, Nathan says that teenagers are ‘biologically primed’ to operate in their limbic system – driven by their feelings – around 90 per cent of the time. If a teenage girl feels fat, for instance, no amount of explaining to her that she is only a size 10, which is healthy and slim, will convince her, says Nathan. Logic will not prevail; her emotional brain is in control.

Conversely, he points out, adults – with fully mature brains – make ‘feeling’ decisions around 10 per cent of the time, and operate in their logical brain most of the time.

WHEN WILL THEY GROW UP?

On average, says Nathan, the brain is fully developed around 26 years of age. Later than

Nathan urges parents not to compare their kids – especially their first-born daughter with their second-born son. ‘His brain will reach maturity, but it may well take longer. For a first-born girl, her brain might reach full maturity at 18. Her younger brother might be 32 when his brain is fully developed.’

So, as to the question on many parents’ minds, there is no short answer to the ‘when’ part – except that it could take longer than you had expected, and hoped.

Nathan strives to debunk certain stereotypes – that ‘teenagers are foolish, lazy, moody and revolting’.

Advice

for parents 1. Validate your teens’ emotions.

Listen by responding to the emotional brain – which dictates their behaviour 90 per cent of the time. Adults are logical and tend to counter teens’ emotional outbursts/behaviour with logic.

Listen more, control less.

2. Seize opportunities to talk to your teen when they want to talk.

If you notice that their frontal cortex is online, go with it – even if the timing is inconvenient and the topic they want to discuss doesn’t seem so important to you.

Autumn / 2018

23

Give yourself the night off cooking and take the family to the night markets for food, music, crafts and face painting on the second Saturday of each month. And, visit the park on the second Sunday of every month for unlimited tram and train rides included within the admission price.

Ferrymead Historic Park, 60 Ferrymead Park Drive ferrymead.org.nz

Where theme park meets climbing wall, kids of all ages can enjoy an hour of fun or participate in classes throughout the year.

Clip ’n’ Climb, 239 Waltham Road ymcachch.org.nz

Join the magical Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise. Spot a Hector’s dolphin or cruise again for free.

Scooby-Doo Live! Musical Mysteries, Isaac Theatre Royal, 145 Gloucester Street premier.ticketek.co.nz

28-29 April

On the main stage these school holidays, the original silent show for loud kids (ages 3-7) promises to tickle their funny bones.

Christchurch City Libraries has a programme of fun, creative activities and holiday programmes for kids 5-15, including ‘Maker Space’, ‘Book Cover Bookmarks’, ‘Chill Out Tunes’, and ‘QR Code Library Hunt’, which involves locating hidden QR codes around your local library while exploring the amazing range of collections that you may never have known existed! BYO device with QR reader installed.

Join fellow animal lovers at this

Christchurch Pet & Animal Expo 2018, Pioneer Stadium petanimalexpo.co.nz

28-29 April

The much-loved Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. Gang takes centre stage in an all-new family musical, Scooby-Doo Live!

Musical Mysteries – featuring everyone’s favourite characters from one of television’s longestrunning animated series.

w o l c ns Court Theatre: A Paintbox of Clowns, Bernard Street courttheatre.org.nz

Fun at the Library, Libraries city wide my.christchurchcitylibraries.com

of

16-28 April

14-29 April

TOP PICK

June

03

The South Island’s favourite foot race, renowned as one of the fastest courses in the world as well as one of the most scenic and supportive – with a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k & Kids’ Mara’Fun.

ASB Christchurch Marathon, Cathedral Square christchurchmarathon.co.nz

3 June

For everything related to pop culture: from comics and animation, to TV and film, to cosplay and more – with celebrity guests from Supergirl, Arrow, Smallville, Merlin and Game of Thrones.

Christchurch Armageddon Expo 2018, Horncastle Arena, Jack Hinton Dve / armageddonexpo.com

2-4 June, 10am-5pm

An exciting line-up of events that showcase local, national and international tech & innovation. Techweek helps people and organisations understand and manage global trends and digital disruption.

Techweek, various locations around Christchurch / techweek.co.nz

19-27 May

Brimming with fun and excitement, the season delivers a range of activities to keep the kids entertained through the school holidays, and beyond.

paintbox

Throughout the school holidays

A labour of love, this personally curated toy collection will take you back in time.

Open daily during the school holidays to browse and buy.

The Toy Collector, 90 Falsgrave Street / thetoycollector.co.nz

A

Come along to see your favourite contestant battle it out against their peers with agricultural challenges.

Black Cat Cruises, Akaroa Harbour Wharf / blackcat.co.nz

Throughout the school holidays

Collage Zoo, Education Centre, Christchurch Art Gallery christchurchartgallery.org.nz

FMG Young Farmer of The Year Tasman Regional Final, Innovation Park, 185 Kirk Road, Templeton fmgyoungfarmercontest.co.nz In this fun hour-long workshop children will create their own magical menagerie of collage animals to take home. Suitable for ages 5-8. Cost: $8 per child.

16-18, 20, 23-27 April, 1pm

this autumn

7 April, 8am-3pm

CHRISTCHURCH

What’s on

Pull me out and pin me up

CHRISTCHURCH EVENT CALENDAR

April

Visit the free Slime Station for some slimetastic fun. Create your own slime between 11am and 2pm every day in the centre court. For your free pottle of galaxy slime, solve the Slime Scavenger Hunt (maps available from the customer service desk).

Slime Fun at Northlands, Northlands, 55 Main North Rd northlands.co.nz

16-27 April, 11am-2pm

Drop off your children for a day of LEGO fun with our experienced team!

This is a day programme for children aged 5-13 years of age (recommended age 6-11). Cost: $35

Imagination Station Brick School, Cathedral Junction, 3/113 Worcester Street / imagination-station.org.nz

16-27 April (weekdays, excluding ANZAC Day), 10am-4pm

In search of a cat – to ride on her broom, stir the cauldron and help cast her spells – this witch mostly seeks a cat who can be her friend.

Canterbury Children’s Theatre: Witch’s Cat Wanted, The Malthouse, 71 Colombo Street malthouse.co.nz

14-29 April

16-27

Weber Bros Circus brings you an exciting new show: ‘Adrenaline’, featuring, The Globe of Death, FMX and The Human Canon! Plus a whole lot more exciting international circus acts.

Weber Bros Circus, Circus Big Top, cnr Russley Road & Memorial Drive weberbroscircus.co.nz

March – 15 April

Introduce your little one to a world of interactive experiences with animals – from donkey rides to encounters with kiwis and tuataras.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, 60 Hussey Road / willowbank.co.nz

Open Monday to Friday, this interactive educational programme offer hands-on activities inspired by New Zealand scientist Ernest, Lord Rutherford.

Rutherford’s Den, The Arts Centre / artscentre.org.nz

In this self-guided trail, follow clues around the Gardens and discover how plants defeat their enemies and use fire to grow. Get your free booklet from the Visitor Centre.

Plant Power Discovery Trail, Christchurch Botanic Gardens friendschchbotanicgardens.org.nz

In this hilarious family film Wallace and his loyal dog Gromit set out to discover the mystery behind the garden sabotage that plagues their village and threatens the annual giant vegetable growing contest.

Bring your own movie snacks and drinks.

No bookings required; first in first served.

The auditorium will be open from 5.30pm.

Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, Philip Carter Family Auditorium, Christchurch Art Gallery christchurchartgallery.org.nz

25 April, 6pm

Remember the fallen at the Anzac service, held at 6.30am in Cranmer Street, or at the Citizen’s Service, held at 11am in the Transitional Cathedral.

ANZAC Day Dawn Service, Parade to start from RSA building on Armagh Street; service in Cranmer Square / eventfinda.co.nz

25 April, 6:30am & 11am

With kick-off at 7.35pm for matches against the Sunwolves (21 April) and the Hurricanes (25 May), the match against the Waratahs (12 May) will kick off at the family-friendly time of 5.15pm.

Crusaders Rugby, AMI Stadium crusaders.co.nz

21 April, 12 May & 25 May

Come and meet Tinky Winky and Dipsy for free, and get your photo taken.

Meet The Teletubbies!

The Palms Shopping Centre, cnr Marshland and New Brighton Roads thepalms.co.nz

19-20 April, 11am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm

16-28

April

01

16-20

May

Global phenomenon STOMP continues to electrify audiences by transforming everyday objects like supermarket trolleys and plastic bags to create hypnotic rhythms.

STOMP, Isaac Theatre Royal, 145 Gloucester Street stomptour.co.nz

16-20 May

Classic vintage collectibles for kids big and small. If you buy or sell new or old toys, this is the event for you.

Christchurch Toy & Hobby Fair Canterbury Caledonian Society Hall

6 May

May

Look at and create art with your preschooler in this specially designed programme for under 5s. This is a dropin activity so stay for as long or as little as suits you, and feel free to bring snacks to eat while you work. Cost: free!

Art Safari, Education Centre, Christchurch Art Gallery christchurchartgallery.org.nz

1 May, 10am

year’s expo, celebrating all creatures great and small.

Head to the seaside and enjoy live entertainment, great food, fresh produce, arts, crafts, jewellery and more. There’s also a bouncy castle and free face-painting for the littlies.

New Brighton Seaside Market, facebook.com/NBSeasideMarket

Saturday mornings, 10am-2pm

Discover all you need to know from bump to birth and beyond. A complimentary Crèche is available onsite – a service provided by Playcentre Upper South Island – and Mothers and Changing Rooms also provided.

Christchurch Baby Expo 2018, Pioneer Stadium / babyexpos.co.nz

9-10 June, 9am-4pm

This historic match will be the first time the Sea Eagles play in the South Island. Both teams will boast a number of international superstars such as Martin Taupau, Shaun Johnson and the Trbojevic brothers.

Manly Sea Eagles v New Zealand Warriors, AMI Stadium premier.ticketek.co.nz

9 June, 5pm

The Royal New Zealand Ballet brings the works of two world-renowned choreographers to Kiwi audiences, alongside a new commission from Christchurch-born choreographer, Corey Baker.

Dancing With Mozart, Isaac Theatre Royal, 145 Gloucester Street / rnzb.org.nz

8-9 June

CALENDAR

What’s on

this autumn

DUNEDIN

7 & 8 April, 10am

22 April, 1-2.30pm

26 May, 10:30am-2:30pm

Women’s Lifestyle Expo, More FM Arena, Edgar Centre expos.co.nz

Sunday Sounds Concert – Kaikorai Metropolitan Brass, Dunedin Botanic Garden Bandstand dunedin.govt.nz/events

Teddy Bear Hospital Community Day, Hunter Centre, Frederick Street

Dunedin Street Art Trail facebook.com/dunedinstreetart Take the kids on a hunt for bare walls throughout the city that have been transformed into works of art.

A special event bringing together an extensive range of services and products aimed at today’s women.

Entry: $10

Brimming with fun and excitement, the season delivers a range of activities to keep the kids entertained through the school holidays, and beyond.

This band is well-established in the New Zealand band scene and offers the perfect recipe for a relaxed afternoon.

13 & 27 April, 10am Toddler Time, Toitū Otago Settlers Museum / toituosm.com

April

Join us for stories, songs and activities at Toitū OSM – venue varies depending on what stories are being told. Gold coin, limited spaces, bookings required.

22

Learn about the amazing transformation butterflies undergo before they take flight for the first time, and bear witness to this extraordinary moment.

Highlanders Rugby, Forsyth Barr Stadium / thehighlanders.co.nz

25 April, 6.15am, for a 6.30am start

Soak up the exciting atmosphere as the Highlanders take on the Brumbies, the Lions and the Hurricanes.

Anzac Day Dawn Service, Crawford Street dunedin.govt.nz/events

April

Rialto Cinemas 11 Moray Place / rialto.co.nz

14

Remember the fallen at the civic dawn ceremony. A 105 Howitzer gun will start the ceremony with a two-gun salute.

Running seven days a week, hop aboard and enjoy a ten-minute train ride around the lower Botanic Garden.

Hare Hill Horse Treks 207 Aramoana Road horseriding-dunedin.co.nz Suitable for beginners right through to advanced riders, meander across farmland and through the bush, on short jaunts or overnight adventures.

Various dates in March & April – cruise-ship days Octagon Markets, Lower Octagon dunedinoctagonmarket.co.nz Check out the original works by local artisans and craftspeople in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Second Sunday of each month Fairfield Hall Market, Fairfield Community Hall dunedin.govt.nz Dunedin’s original craft market for people to sell their handmade items.

26 Autumn / 2018

From 3 May Sunday Sounds Concert – Kiwiana Concert, Botanic Garden Bandstand dunedin.govt.nz/events Come along and celebrate the wonderful and distinctive sounds of New Zealand music with our friends Makka and The Leftovers.

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Regent Theatre, The Octagon / priscilla.nz

Let your hair down, dress up and groove along to the catchy tunes, as the bedazzled cast takes you on a heartwarming adventure about love and friendship.

20-25 April Wild Dunedin – NZ Festival of Nature, various venues in Dunedin / wilddunedin.nz Celebrate wildlife and nature with an array of talks, walks, open days, exhibitions and a children’s programme.

29 May, 7.30-9pm Beyond The Barricade, Regent Theatre, The Octagon beyondthebarricade.co.nz Songs from the world’s greatest musicals, with a spectacular finale from Les Misérables.

OCTACAN - Filling our Foodbank, The Octagon

TOP PICK 15 April, 1-2.30pm

Dunedin Poultry, Pigeon & Cage Bird Club Annual Show, Forrester Park Exhibition Centre

21 June, 7am-3pm

Bring the whole family to Rialto Cinemas this autumn for the cheapest family pass deal in town, from just $29.

Train Rides at the Botanic Garden, Dunedin Botanic Garden, departing near café crestrides.org.nz

26 May, 1-6pm & 27 May, 10.30am-3pm

A two-day show with more than 1000 birds to be viewed and admired. Entry: adults $5, children free.

14 April, 12 May & 1 June, 7.35pm First Flight 419 Great King Street otagomuseum.nz

Bring your children and their teddies for a check up by the teddy doctors and teddy dentists at Teddy Bear Hospital and create a positive medical experience for young children.

16 May, 7.45pm ANZ Netball, Edgar Centre southernsteel.co.nz The Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel play the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic.

21-28 April

18 May, 7.30pm

Robin Hood, Fortune Theatre, 231 Stuart Street fortunetheatre.co.nz

The Nutcracker, Regent Theatre, The Octagon regenttheatre.co.nz

Join us for a new play by Zac Nicholls, winner of the 2017 Playmarket Plays for the Young competition, and his version of Robin Hood.

With this delightful production of the much-loved Nutcracker, La Classique captures the imagination, the passion, the humour and magic of the ballet.

Our Family Works’ foodbank is the busiest in Dunedin and during winter demand is even higher. Support Octacan by collecting and donating as many cans and coins as you can carry!

Then join us for the celebrations and bring your collection to the Lower Octagon and add your cans to our growing can display.

30 June Midwinter Carnival, The Octagon midwintercarnival.co.nz Celebrate the changing seasons with Dunedin’s most celebrated carnival.

Live music, great food, spectacular costumes, dancers, drummers and stiltwalkers provide fun for the whole family.

June

30

Autumn / 2018

27

F UN Z ONE

KIDS’ time ACTIVITIES AND GAMES FOR ALL AGES

Win! 5 x Early Man Prize Packs Prize pack includes:

Early Man stickers, scratch art notebook, drawstring bag and family pass to the movie (admit 4).

Ts and Cs apply.

To enter, visit familytimes.co.nz

28 Autumn / 2018

F UN Z ONE

Ts and Cs apply.

Sherlock Gnomes is the movie to see these school holidays. Be in to win:

5 x Sherlock Gnomes family movie passes.

There are 13 differences in the pictures below; see if you can find them!

D

There ar

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE There are 13 differences in the pictures below, see if you can find them!

nkini’s Sunglasses Orange 4 = Gnomeo’s hair gone 5 = Gnome Watson’s Pocket Square e nose 8 = finger not raised on yellow hat 9 = yellow dress flower colour change to red down 12 = Empress Pom Pom cat is smiling 13 = green hat colour change to purple

Win!

To enter, visit familytimes.co.nz

Autumn / 2018

29

G e t C r a ft y

The gift

of love

There’s nothing more personal than creating a unique gift with your own two hands.

This concept can be used to convey a myriad of messages depending on the occasion. Use a single word as we have, or search online for inspirational quotes. These make great gifts and provide the ideal opportunity to get creative with your kids.

Materials

Instructions

Canvas (this one is 34x34cm)

1. Start by painting the entire canvas – including the sides – with Resene Pink Lace, using a paint roller. For best results and a more vivid background colour, apply a couple of coats.

For all your DIY projects, big or small, visit your nearest Resene ColorShop. resene.co.nz/colorshops

Roller

Plastic lettering stencil Flat-edged mini paintbrush Paint tray Pencil Ruler Painter’s tape Test pots: Resene Pink Lace and Resene Persian Red (or any colour combination you like) Creative Project & Styling: Revised Edition

30 Autumn / 2018

2. Use a ruler to measure the placement of each letter to ensure the whole word is centred. Cut out paper letters as a guide to help you get the perfect alignment.

3. Place your plastic stencil in the position of the first letter, and using a flat-edged mini paintbrush carefully paint inside the stencil with Resene Persian Red to form the letter L. Make sure you hold the stencil down firmly, so the paint doesn’t bleed underneath. If you’re feeling confident, you could also do this step freehand.

4. After the first letter has been painted, carefully lift the stencil away from the canvas and straighten up any uneven edges using painter’s tape.

5. Once the first letter has dried, complete the process with the other letters. As with the background colour, you may want to go back and give each letter a second coat.

giveaways

LEGO Creator Sunshine Surfer Van The 3-in-1 surfer van transforms into a lifeguard tower or beach buggy.

3

Nuzest New Zealand’s Kids Good Stuff Choc-Banana Tubs

3

This super smoothie is packed with fruits, veggies, herbs, vitamins and minerals.

6

Muffin Misfits Toy Sets

Have fun with Muffin Break’s crazy new Kids’ Mini Meal toys.

My Mermaid Lagoon Play Sets

Be in to

Shotover Jet Family Pass Take your family on an adventure of a lifetime and create some memorable moments.

4

Win!

3

Includes paints, pencils, paint brushes, blank canvases, an artist pallet and a sketch pad.

Simply head to our website: familytimes.co.nz

6

LEGO Friends Mia’s Tree House

Build a Bot Robot Bugs Unicorn Gardens

Art Box Sets

courtesy of Paper Tree

Have loads of fun with Mia and friends in her magical tree house.

Build a Bot Bugs can be mixed and matched to create different characters.

Create your own magical Unicorn Garden – new to the My Fairy Garden range.

LEGO DUPLO Creative Play Set Toddlers will love building their own animal train with My First Animal Brick Box.

10

Be Well Winter Packs

Support recovery from illness with these new natural, plant-based formulations.

Autumn / 2018

Terms and conditions can be found at familytimes.co.nz

Create a magical underwater world where mermaids and their friends love to play.

31

ON HOLIDAY

Magical Rotorua D

eciding where to go for a family holiday can be a tricky process. While you might want to take in some beautiful scenery, the kids are likely to prefer something a little more adventurous. Then there’s the budget to consider: the bank account doesn’t always support our grand ideas for rest and recreation, especially when we throw a few children into the mix!

Rotorua is a local destination that truly ticks all the boxes for the whole family. It has the breathtaking scenery that we New Zealanders have come to expect, but this city goes several steps further by boasting a plethora of adventure activities, mystical bubbling mud and steam around every corner, plus opportunities to take in some local history and experience Maori culture. And there’s plenty on offer to suit every budget. In short, Rotorua is a magical place for a family holiday!

It’s a given that visitors will want to get out and explore the stunning surroundings. Well, the options are many, starting

32 Autumn / 2018

with a simple stroll around one of the numerous local walking tracks. The Lake Okareka boardwalk is a great start: it’s pushchair-friendly, so you can include your littlest tourists in an easy 5km walk that loops around the pristine lake.

With verdant parks throughout the city, many dotted with playgrounds, Rotorua delivers plenty of inexpensive avenues for fun and exploration for the little ones. If your kids are a bit older, they’ll love taking the mountain bikes for a spin through the spectacular Redwoods Forest, where Disney’s Pete’s Dragon was filmed.

For a higher perspective, more adventurous families will love soaring through the ancient native forest on zip lines, with Rotorua Canopy Tours. Canopy tourists (aged six years and older) will love the thrill of whizzing through the beautiful treetops and hearing gorgeous native bird song, while they learn about the conservation of this national treasure from guides who take their responsibilities seriously, but who also have a lot of fun.

ON HOLIDAY

Guaranteed to open young minds to the magnificent forces of nature, this geothermal utopia delivers an array of activities to engage and excite all ages.

Alternatively, Rotorua Duck Tours provides an iconic way to see the sights of the city and some of its surrounding lakes. Suitable for all ages and most weathers, authentic WWII amphibious craft carry passengers around town and splash down in a lake or two.

up close and personal with reptiles and native birds such as the iconic kiwi.

When it comes to burning off some energy, the Skyline is the ideal spot: family members can ride the gondola up, and then have fun racing each other down on the luge! If the kids are still feeling bouncy, they’ll love a trip to OGO where they can roll down a hill in a gigantic inflatable ball – a wet or dry experience, depending on whether or not they mind messing up their hair!

If it’s people and history you’re after, Rotorua will not disappoint.

Te Puia offers a gateway to Maori culture, where visitors can take in performances, taste traditional hangi and observe taonga being made as master craftspeople pass on traditional arts such as carving and weaving to their students. Te Puia has a daytime experience (Te Ra) and a night-time one (Te Po), so there’s ‘New Zealand’s something on offer for all ages.

If the weather is less than desirable, the enormous Motion Entertainment coolest hot complex houses a Chipmunks Playland for the younger family members and spot’ for making magical There is no place like this bubbling numerous other fun activities such as memories with the family utopia to open young minds to the tenpin bowling and gaming for the magnificent forces of nature. Children older kids. Perhaps most importantly, will be fascinated by the area’s the building houses the Revived Cafe geothermal activity, and there are numerous sites to fit everyone’s which provides important fuel for tired parents! finances within and close to the city – from free-access hot No matter what the weather is doing, regardless of the ages of your water pools, suitable for swimming or foot-soaking, to the more children, or the size of your budget, Rotorua is a fantastic holiday spectacular experience offered by Te Puia, the home of Pohutu, the destination for families. With pristine lakes, spectacular waterfalls, largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere! bubbling geysers and ancient forests, and an array of activities When the kids want a change of scene, there are plenty of other that cater for all ages, interests, fitness levels and thrill thresholds, places to explore. If animals are their thing, they’ll love a visit to Rotorua truly is ‘New Zealand’s coolest hot spot’.

Rainbow Springs Nature Park where the family can spend hours admiring beautiful trout in the crystal clear water and getting RotoruaNZ.com

Autumn / 2018

33

ON HOLIDAY

The ultimate

W

playground

hether you’re keen to hit the trails and clear the cobwebs, or sit back and soak up the scenery; whether you’re a budding adrenaline junkie or mummy’s little monkey – Queenstown satisfies all definitions of fun, making it the ideal spot for your family escape.

If you have big kids as well as littlies, there are activities catering to all ages, interests and abilities. Take a steamship or boat cruise on the lake, or check out the Underwater Observatory for a new perspective on local aquatic life – the kids will love feeding the ducks and seeing the massive trout and slinky eels.

For those with thrill thresholds that are ‘up there’, bungy jumping or skydiving are bound to get the blood pumping. Of course, the area also delivers an abundance of options for those who’d like to stay a little more grounded, and take things at a gentler pace.

For something a little more active, take a ride up the gondola and then whiz down the luge. With scenic and advanced tracks, riders set their own pace. Naturally, siblings will enjoy racing each other down the hillside. If conventional golf is a ‘fairway’ off appealing to the party, there’s always a round of the mini variety; or, for something a little different, the family might like to try their hands at frisbee golf – a popular free attraction.

As you plan your holiday, it’s not a silly idea to get everyone in the family to make a wish-list. The kids might have different priorities, and the task of collating all their ideas might seem daunting.

However, one thing is certain: you will find plenty of attractions that promise to appeal to everyone.

34 Autumn / 2018

For activities that combine awe-inspiring scenery with a touch (or more) of adventure, there are plenty of options for sitting back and

ON HOLIDAY

Make yourself

at home with YHA We all know that an activity-packed family holiday can spell one thing: a hefty price tag. The thought of well-located, functional accommodation doesn’t sound cheap.

When you’re holidaying in Queenstown, you now have not one but two highquality, budget YHA hostels to choose from – so you can spend your money on more of the fun stuff.

YHA Queenstown Central is right in the heart of the action – simply step out the front door and check out the Fergburger line! All rooms have ensuites, and many of our dedicated private rooms feature bunks for the kids and doubles for the adults.

Framed by mountains, and set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is brimming with opportunities for play and adventure for all the family.

enjoying the ride – over land or on the water: you just need to decide whether you prefer bicycle seat or saddle, jet boat or kayak.

For adventures on two wheels, Queenstown boasts some of the most scenic trails in the world – many within five minutes’ walk of downtown.

With tracks suited to all ages and abilities, cycling is an energy-burning, yet rejuvenating way to spend quality time together.

Dart River Adventures offers scenic rides on the water as well as on horseback. The Wilderness Jet takes you on an unforgettable journey through the Dart River into the heart of the majestic and unspoiled beauty of Mt Aspiring National Park.

For a day-long action-packed adventure, combine the Wilderness Jet with the Dart River Funyaks experience. After an exciting high-speed jet boat ride, enjoy a hearty picnic lunch, before heading back down the river on inflatable Funyaks kayaks.

Whether you’re skimming across the water with the engine of the jet whirring beneath you or trekking through the wide open country aboard your steed, the natural beauty of the area is simply breathtaking.

For the ultimate river ride, complete with 360 degree spins, the Shotover Jet will take you skimming across shallow waters, in and around crags and boulders, and whipping past rocky outcrops. Under ten minutes’ drive from Queenstown, this adrenaline-packed adventure promises to create lasting memories for the whole family.

A ten-minute lakeside stroll from town, YHA Queenstown Lakefront is perfect for those wanting a quieter nights’ sleep. This hostel was fully refurbished last year so has completely modern conveniences, plus some cool murals and a lake view.

Like all YHA hostels, you’ll find fully-equipped kitchens, comfortable communal lounges and – the thing the kids can’t live without – WiFi! Our secure rooms and bar-free facilities mean you can rest easy, and let the kids enjoy meeting other guests and learning about different cultures. So make yourself at home – stay with YHA. yha.co.nz

There are few places that boast such a bounty of attractions and activities presented on such a spectacular natural stage. Whatever the ages, interests and priorities of your kids, Queenstown is brimming with opportunities for play and adventure for everyone.

Autumn / 2018

35

Health & Wellbeing

A clear

Alternative Gone are the days of unsightly braces. Thanks to advancements in orthodontics at Duxton Dental, Grahame Dutton explains how near invisible braces make achieving a sensational smile easier, quicker and far less painful.

U

sing a transparent retainer that fits snugly over teeth, Invisalign is proving to be a popular orthodontic alternative for teenagers and young adults, and traditional metal or ceramic braces are quickly becoming a thing of the past.

With a series of these clear ‘aligners’ that are adjusted a quarter of a millimetre at a time until the desired correction has been achieved, Invisalign means the patient can enjoy a metal-free smile throughout the treatment process.

Patients who undergo treatment using Invisalign say it not only looks better – giving them greater confidence – but, since there are no wires where food can get trapped, their teeth are easier to keep clean, and there’s much less irritation.

This treatment method is particularly suited to musicians and those playing contact sports. And, because the retainers are removable, teenagers can always take them out for special occasions like the school ball.

Another benefit of Invisalgn is the shorter timeframe involved to reach the desired result. Our teenage patients tend to be responsible and commit to wearing them consistently, as they understand and appreciate that consistent wear is so important for a quick course of treatment.

With Invisalgn there are no white marks left on the teeth, which is a result of plaque build-up around the metalwork.

And bite problems such as ‘open bite’, where the upper and lower teeth are unable to make contact with each other when the jaws are closed, are now being treated with Invisalign too.

Getting started with your Invisalign treatment is easy and painless, especially with Duxton Dental’s digital scanner, which takes hundreds of photos to make an incredibly accurate virtual impression – all without the mess and discomfort associated with the old tray impressions.

FREE “The aligners are wonderful and have helped me so much.

I wonder what I would have looked like in the future if I hadn’t had them.

Everyone at Duxton Dental is so friendly and it’s a fun place to visit.”

36 Autumn / 2018

Grahame Dutton and wife Christine Duxbury established Duxton Dental in 1996. Their team of dental surgeons have an avowed commitment to researching and implementing new technologies and techniques in order to provide optimal dental care that is minimally invasive and that will stand the test of time.

03 348 5488

/

duxtondental.co.nz

ORTHODONTIC AND INVISALIGN SCREENING

Orthodontic treatment is performed by Grahame Dutton who is a General Dentist with a special interest in Orthodontics. A specialist referral might be required.

Health & Wellbeing

Rest & revive I

f energy levels or moods are low, worries are high or if a good night’s sleep doesn’t come easy, SleepDrops provides support for the whole family.

For a healthy, happy life, getting enough sleep and relaxation is vital – not just for parents, but for the whole family. However modern life places big demands on our time. As we try to juggle a career with raising a family – not to mention eating well, getting enough exercise and maintaining a healthy social life – life can easily become unbalanced.

When this happens and things become a bit too much, our sleep patterns are disrupted: even if we manage to fall asleep quickly, we may experience restlessness and wake up feeling more tired than when our head hit the pillow. And, as we all know, sleep deprivation can turn the most relaxed parent or child into an irritable ball of stress and fatigue.

SleepDrops Daytime Revive is a herbal formula to help you regain balance by improving energy levels, mood, concentration and resilience,

so you can get the most out of your day while handling with ease the everyday ups and downs of parenting. It’s also great for kids who seem to worry a lot.

And for those parents who find sleep elusive at the end of the day, SleepDrops for Adults supports going to sleep and getting back to sleep faster. If you have trouble falling asleep, this all-natural solution combines 13 of the most scientifically recognised medical herbs with 11 homeopathic sleep remedies – designed to switch off your busy mind so you can get to sleep, and to support the normal phases of sleep.

NZ’s number one selling specialist sleep & stress range - professionally formulated and tried and tested by hundreds of thousands of happy Kiwis.

There is also a unique formula for children who find it difficult to get to sleep and stay asleep. For toddlers through to pre-teens, SleepDrops for Kids is a gentle, non-habit forming, non-toxic formula that helps calm kids before bedtime.

For children with high levels of energy and overactive minds, SleepDrops will help relax and settle them for a good night’s sleep – right through the night.

The SleepDrops family value 25ml spray range is now available in supermarkets. sleepdrops.co.nz

Sleep Smarter. Live Better.

SleepDrops NEW 25ml spray range Now available in supermarkets - only $25.00!

Always read the label and take as directed. SleepDrops NZ Autumn / 2018

37

Health & Wellbeing

Runs

in the family

For mum SARAH LEE, nothing beats heading out for a run to clear the mind and recharge the batteries. Now her three kids are wanting in on the action.

S

ince moving to New Zealand, I have always loved exploring the wilderness areas. When I had my first child, I would strap my babe to my side, in various carriers, and tramp the hills of Wellington. These walks, in the fresh air, on nature trails and by the sea, all helped my mental health – which was very fragile on account of severe sleep deprivation and the fuzzy-headed feeling I got from breastfeeding.

I was really proud to finish my first half marathon in under two hours, and since then I’ve gone on to run a total of eight half marathons and one full marathon.

Fast-forward several years and I find myself with three beautiful children – aged 8, 12 and 14. I love being active in the outdoors with my children; but, as I home educate two of my three daughters, I also need to make space for my own mental health.

I’ve found online running communities to be a great way to keep me motivated, particularly in the winter months when the lack of daylight hours and less welcoming weather makes it harder for me to talk myself into heading out. Signing up for events months in advance also helps to keep me focused.

My journey into running started in 2014, at the age of 39, with my 40th birthday fast approaching. With my ‘breeding and breastfeeding years’ behind me, now was the time to focus on my physical and mental well-being – so that I could keep up with growing children for many more years! So, I signed up for a half marathon and loaded up an app on my phone with a 16-week training plan.

There are many family-friendly events around the country, and options to walk as well as run.

38 Autumn / 2018

Over the past four years, running has become an important part of my life. I love the simplicity and flexibility of being able to lace up my shoes and head out the door at a moment’s notice, and I feel balanced and capable to tackle most things when I run regularly.

A little into my running journey my children started to join me.

They saw the positive impact running was having on their Mum and asked to sign up for runs too. They particularly like the runs that award a finisher’s medal – bling for their bedroom walls! catchingthemagic.com

runningcalendar.co.nz Search for events of varying lengths, over different terrains, and in locations all across New Zealand. jennianmothersday.com Jennian Homes Mother’s Day Fun Runs/Walks are held in various locations to raise money for the Heart Foundation. greatestvirtualrunnz.com From, April 3-16 2018, run anywhere in the world to help raise funds for Autism Charity ‘Running on the Spectrum’, and receive a finisher’s medal.

Food

Soup’s on!

BRYDON HELLER introduces

us to a new range of flavoursome, nutritious meals promising to hit the spot for busy families.

W

e may wish it wasn’t so, but the days are getting shorter and the evenings cooler. Yet, we continue to squeeze as much as possible into our weeks – with meetings, extra-curricular activities and regular tasks like shopping for groceries filling up our afternoons and evenings.

After a day on the go, when it comes to reconvening as a family and replenishing depleted energy stocks, a delicious, healthy meal is just what everyone needs. Of course someone has to prepare it.

Well, it’s never been easier. From May, Hellers will be serving up their new range of flavoursome, nutritious soups in the chilled section of all supermarkets.

Renowned for their tasty bacon and sausages, Hellers has combined these family favourites with what is a staple of the season – soup! –

‘transforming classic soups into flavoursome meals’, says Brydon. Unlike all the other soups on the shelves, moreish morsels of quality Hellers meat will deliver new dimensions of taste and satisfaction to the family dining table.

The 500g bags serve two, making them ideal to heat up for the kids after sport – providing the energy and protein needed for active bodies.

They also make quick, tasty meals for mum and dad.

The tempting pairings include: Smokey Bacon, Pumpkin and Leek; Chorizo and Spicy Tomato; Roast Chicken and Bacon; and Bacon and Sweet Corn Chowder. ‘The meals promise to be popular with all the family’, says Brydon, plus ‘they’re quick and easy, as well as nutritious – with meat, and vegetables too’.

On the go or dining together as a family, nothing beats a mouth-watering, belly-warming bowl of soup, complete with moreish morsels of bacon, chorizo or chicken – especially when the preparation part has been done for you. hellers.co.nz

Get cosy with Hellers this winter!

Hellers travel far and wide in search of exotic new flavours to combine with their quality and tasty meats. Taking your classic, favourite soups and pairing them with their delicious, premium meats, you will not be able to resist this combination that is truly unique, and truly Kiwi.

Cosy up this winter with a bowl of Hellers hearty new soup range.

www.hellers.co.nz Autumn / 2018

39

Food

Loco for tacos

For quick and easy Mexican dishes kids will devour, Everyone Loves Tacos by Felipe Fuentes Cruz and Ben Fordham will soon become your go-to cookbook.

CHICKEN TINGA TACOS Serves 3–4 INGREDIENTS 500 g skinless, boneless chicken breasts 1 large onion, chopped 3 tomatoes, cut into wedges 2 cloves of garlic, peeled 2 Tsps chipotle paste ¾ tsp white pepper 1 Tsp paprika 1 ½ tsp salt 2 Tsp vegetable oil Serve with 12 flour or corn tortillas, warmed (see below) ½ romaine lettuce, shredded 1 bunch of radishes, sliced ½ red onion, sliced 150 ml sour cream 200 g feta cheese, crumbled INSTRUCTIONS 1. Place the chicken in a small saucepan with 1L of water, bring to the boil, then simmer for 10 minutes, skimming the froth from the top if necessary.

2. Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Remove the chicken from the pan and put to one side to cool. Pour the broth into a separate bowl and reserve for later.

3. When the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred into small pieces.

4. In the now-empty saucepan, place ¼ cup of the chopped onion, the tomatoes and garlic and 2 cups water, bring to the boil, then simmer for 5 minutes. Drain, discard the water and leave to cool.

5. Once cooled, place in a blender with the chipotle paste, white pepper, paprika and salt, and blend for 1 minute until completely smooth.

6. Take the saucepan again and heat the oil, then add the remaining chopped onion.

This edited excerpt is from Everyone Loves Tacos, by Felipe Fuentes Cruz and Ben Fordham, photography

by Peter Cassidy, and published by Ryland Peters & Small.

40 Autumn / 2018

7. Sauté for 1 minute, then add the shredded chicken and the mixture from the blender and cook for another minute.

8. Add ½ cup of the reserved chicken broth and simmer over a low heat for 15 minutes.

To serve: 9. Place a generous spoonful of chicken tinga on top of each warmed tortilla. Top up with the lettuce, radishes, red onion, sour cream, and finally the crumbled feta cheese.

Food

Silky

smoothie

Passionate foodie and busy mum WICK NIXON serves up a healthy, delicious avocado energy boost – perfect for after school.

Edited extract, reproduced with permission, from Healthy Lunchbox Love by Wick Nixon. RRP $29.95, available now directly from wickedwellbeing.com

INGREDIENTS ½ c milk ½ c unsweetened natural yoghurt 1 avocado 2 T cacao powder 1-2 T honey, melted (depending on sweetness required) ¼ c fine rolled oats

METHOD Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Garnish with grated chocolate over the top.

Serve immediately, or they can be chilled in the fridge for a short time.

Garnish: 1-2 pieces dark chocolate, grated

Fa mily Friendly Dining

CAESARS RESTAURANT & BAR

LONE STAR PAPANUI

THE PEDAL PUSHER

SISTER KONG BAO HOUSE

Famous for its home-style Kiwi and Mediterranean cuisine with attention to flavour. Caesars has a kids’ play area making it ideal for birthdays, celebrations and functions. Check out their new dining experience, ‘create your own meal’.

Family dining at Lone Star Papanui is a great experience for the kids. There is free colouring-in and a free drink and dessert accompany each meal.

Ask about their birthday promotions and the new Lone Star Loyal App.

Pull up to The Pedal Pusher and let the good times roll! Whether you’re after a cheeky afternoon drink, a quick lunch or a classy dinner, they’ve got you covered. A great atmosphere and friendly service.

Northwood Supa Centa 548 Main North Road / 03 323 5420 caesars.co.nz

Shop 116, Northlands Mall Christchurch / 03 352 6653 lonestar.co.nz/restaurants/papanui

284 Lincoln Rd, Addington 03 335 0095 55 Faringdon Blvd, Rolleston 03 260 0866 / thepedalpusher.co.nz

Sister Kong is a take on a ‘Hong Kong Baijiu House’. Serving reinvented Hong Kong Bao Burgers, it promises to shake up your ideas on Taiwanese Bao Burgers. Takeaway orders and delivery with UberEATS is now available at Sister Kong.

STYX AND STONE

WINNIE BAGOES

CORIANDERS

MEXICO

Offering an authentic stonegrill dining menu as well as a la carte options, they have regular lunch specials from $12.50 and the $10 Kids’ Menu comes with an activity pack and drink to keep everyone happy during the dining experience.

Winnie Bagoes Ferrymead is your local family friendly restaurant.

The perfect place for family dinners, birthday parties and functions. With a great kids’ menu, amazing pizzas, bar and friendly staff, it is the place to bring your family.

Immerse yourself in a truly unique culinary experience.

With an extensive and varied menu, customers can expect to enjoy only the finest in Indian cuisine.

Bush Inn, St Asaph, Rolleston and Hanmer locations offer BYO and all four locations are fully licensed.

Mexico celebrates the vibrant, fresh and lighter side of Mexican cuisine.

The menu is seasonal, but customer favourites remain staples, so you’ll never have to miss out on their famous fried chicken. Kids under 12 eat free on Sundays when their parents dine.

Northwood Supa Centa 03 323 4497 / styxandstone.co.nz

Unit 3, 2 Waterman Place Ferrymead 03 376 4900 / winniebagoes.co.nz

corianders.co.nz

203 Manchester Street, Christchurch 03 374 5422 / mexico.net.nz

123 Victoria Street, Christchurch sisterkong.co.nz

Autumn / 2018

41

DUNEDIN M A RK ETPL ACE

Ice Skating Hockey Social Curling Learn to Skate Classes Function Room Hire and the coolest birthday parties in town!

Call us to find out more 03 456 4556 www.dunedinicestadium.co.nz

OTAGO MUSEUM Tūhura Otago Community Trust Science Centre All-day Family Combo pass from $55, includes Tropical forest Get tickets and info at www.otagomuseum.nz Open daily, 10am–5pm 419 Great King Street, Dunedin PH 03 474 7474

Boys & Girls School Holiday Camp 16 -19 April Kiwi Hoops: Yr. 1- 6, 9am-Noon $100 per child, add $50 for sibling(s)

All Star Hoops: Yr. 8 -11, 1-3pm $50 per child

Girls Only Camp 23-24 April Yr. 1-8, 10am-Noon, $25 per child

mhc.co.nz/Services/Paediatrician

BEST VALUE FAMILY PASSES AT THE BEST CINEMA IN TOWN!

To register: Online: www.otago.basketball Phone: 03 456 4063 Email: development@otago.basketball

MEGAZONE Leave the FUN to US

Game Store s e i t vR Par

Mini

Laser Tag

Golf

2D FAMILY PASSES*

y TAg Archer

$29 1 ADULT, 2 KIDS $39 2 ADULTS, 2 KIDS

and lots more !

*CONDITIONS APPLY

#

2 SMALL POPCORNS

FOR $5 ANYTIME!

Present this voucher at Rialto Cinemas to purchase two small popcorns for only $5 - save $4!

Limit one per customer. Valid until 24 June 2018.

www.Megazonedunedin.co.nz

03 474 9179

Special Deals Holiday Events

LARNACH CASTLE New Zealand’s Castle

Email: info@larnachcastle.co.nz Ph: 0800 527 6224 www.larnachcastle.co.nz Term & Conditions apply Valid for New Zealand School Holidays only Children must be accompanied by one paying adult

42 Autumn / 2018

Help is at hand

Sometimes you need some information or an answer to a curly question – all you need to do is pick up the phone and ask for help.

Catholic Social Services

SIDS and Kids

Parent Helpline

Autism Associates NZ

No-cost parenting support programmes and family/individual counselling open to all.

Dedicated to saving the lives of babies and children; and supporting bereaved families.

For all parenting issues, from those everyday situations to the most serious issue of child abuse.

Providing Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy for Kiwi kids.

03 379 0012 cathsocservs.nzl.org

0800 164 455 sidsandkids.org.nz

0800 568 856 parenthelp.org.nz

Christchurch Resettlement Services

Citizens Advice Bureau Dunedin

Anglican Family Care

Free social services for people from refugee and migrant backgrounds.

Interpreters are provided.

Providing free and confidential advice to everyone, CAB Dunedin takes the time to listen.

03 335 0311 crs.org.nz

03 471 6166 facebook.com/cabdunedin

Providing social services to Otago children and families in need.

0800 FAM CARE anglicanfamilycare.org.nz

027 910 4020 facebook.com/ autismassociatesnz

Canterbury Speakeasy A stuttering support group who meet at the University Speech Disorders Unit every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 7.30pm

03 338 8628

CHRISTCHURCH M A RK ETPL ACE

Parenting Helpline

Thinking Schools, Think Medbury You are invited to attend the

MEDBURY SCHOOL OPEN DAYS

support, advice and practical strategies anonymous, non-judgemental, confidential

8 May and 24 October 9.00am - 10.45am

Call 0800 568 856 9am - 11pm Monday to Sunday

Academic, Boarding & Music Scholarships available for 2019 www.medbury.school.nz

CanterBury

Speakeasy

is a stuttering support group We meet at the University Speech Disorders Unit every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 7.30pm

Barry Hay

Stimulation Challenge Early Learning Skills Language Development Co-ordination Sight & Hearing

For More InForMatIon

03 338 8628

HOURS Tues & Thur 10am - 4.30pm Sat 10am - 1pm 109 Huxley Street Christchurch Tel: 03 332 0733

specialneedslibrary.co.nz

Rangiora New Life School An Integrated Area School for New Entrants to Year 13 www.rnls.school.nz

that stimulate ACCEPT • Activities • Exciting & LEARN • educational Highly professional teachers PLAY • Assists individual development Childcare subsidy HAPPY • may be available 20 ECE hours ACHIEVE • available

“Have

you considered a local Christian education for your child?”

Dedicated free bus service from Oxford, Kaiapoi and Pegasus.

Enrolment enquiries always welcome via admin@rnls.school.nz Stephen Walters, Principal

Early Childhood Educational Centre

Ph 385 6319 CALL AND SEE US TO ENROL

45 Randall St, Richmond (Close to The Palms)

Autumn / 2018

43

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instagram & facebook @familytimesmagazinenz

APRIL 23-27

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Lessons are available for children aged 6 months through to adults.

A safe, caring and fun environment for your child BEFORE SCHOOL AFTER SCHOOL or during the SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Dudley Park Aquatic Centre 47 Church Street, Rangiora Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre 9 Cass Street, Kaiapoi

Phone 0800

459 Cashel Street | Ph: 381 0299

Text your email address to 027 239 7690 CYFS ACCREDITED | MSD APPROVED | WINZ SUBSIDES AVAILABLE

Birthday Tram goggle value - $24

Free Pair Of Goggles

LOCATIONS AROUND CHRISTCHURCH and RANGIORA

A Waimakariri District Council Service

Learn To Swim with Us BOOK NOW

and great learning experiences

FOR MORE INFO

m Swi i a W

New customers present this advert when you book a 10 lesson course to receive a

LOTS OF FUN ACTIVITIES

A tram just for you for your party.

Then have fun exploring the rest of the Park.

Contact us now

03 384 1970

aquagym.co.nz

info@ferrymead.org.nz 50 Ferrymead Park Drive | ferrymead.org.nz

Term 2 starts 30 April Free trial class!

Canvas Bag Drama School Merivale • South Brighton • New Halswell Campus info@canvasbag.nz • 021 222 7273 • canvasbag.nz 44 Autumn / 2018

Sum

Acti v ities & Entertainment

New Zealand FUN

An invitation

ACTIVITY

to all girls aged 5 to 18 Come join the fun and friendship at any of our nationwide locations

girlsbrigade.nz E-mail: info@girlsbrigade.or.nz

ALL NEW PAPANUI STOR E

ChristChurCh’s Premier AgenCy & modelling sChool

Play - Party Cafe

Est.

Taking bookings NO W!

SPECIAL OFFER FREE Chipmunks Socks!

Kids/Tween/Teen Workshops April School Holidays

472 Cranford St – Papanui – Ph 03 352 4476

03 379 9011 | info@portfoliomodels.co.nz

Bring in this advert, 1 pair with full priced entry. Valid till 30th June 2018

1992

AND every school holidays during 2018

Self Esteem | Confidence Makeup | Skincare Deportment | Photo Shoot Etiquette + MUCH more!

portfoliomodels.co.nz

Under new Ownership Find us at McLeans Island Forest Park • Over 15km of mountain bike track to suit all skill levels

new hOUrs Tues- Friday 9.30am-3.30pm Weekend and Holidays 9am-5pm Negotiable hours for group bookings Bring this ad in and receive 25% discount

Email: onyourbikehire@gmail.com

• Charli’s hub for all your refreshment needs

BOOk TOday

03 348 1738 021 208 2532

charLi

Like us on Facebook

Autumn / 2018

45

S T ORY T IME

The Backyard Adventures of

Knights and T hunders

shares the latest episode in her exciting read-aloud series.

FELICITY WILLIAMS

Cake Knights had a rolling pin and some blue playdough.

She ran into Thunders’ room. He wasn’t there, but she could hear a wee-aah wee-aah and she knew it was him, outside, playing with his authentic-sounds-like-a-real-kiwi kiwi plush puppet toy.

Knights grabbed the toy cash register from the shelf.

Tap tap ting!

The drawer shot open. Inside there were scraps of coloured paper with numbers written on them, and some shiny buttons.

‘Just what I need’, said Knights.

Thunders was on the patio with a box of chalk.

The authentic-sounds-like-a-real-kiwi kiwi was lying beside him. He was drawing a forest with blue trees, yellow trees and an orange river.

Knights dropped the paper and buttons in a pile beside him.

‘Money’, she said, ‘so you can buy my cakes’.

Thunders picked up the authentic-sounds-likea-real-kiwi kiwi and turned it vigorously from side to side.

Wee-aah wee-aah ‘Kiwis sleep in the daytime’, said Knights, frowning. ‘Which actually, it is right now’.

Wee-aah wee-aah ‘Maybe she’s got things on her mind. Or she needs a drink of water. Or she’s hungry.’

‘— but good on her for trying.’

Knights ran down to the sandpit.

She squashed some of the blue playdough into small round balls.

‘Cakes for sale’, she cried. ‘Only a dollar each.

Customers welcome.’

Thunders was too busy to go to the cake shop.

He had found some brown chalk and he was drawing mountains. Knights picked up a couple of the cakes and threw them into the bushes.

‘Come quickly before we run out!’

Thunders coloured pinky snow on the top of the mountains.

Knights jumped up, took the cakes, and ran down to where there was a large pile of dry grass.

She dropped the cakes in the clippings. Then she took the rolling pin and flattened the cakes into long worms. She ran back and laid the worms on the wooden edge of the sandpit.

‘Delicious bug cakes’, called Knights, ‘Two for the price of one.’

She ran off to bounce on the trampoline.

When she came back the bug cakes had all disappeared and there was a pile of ripped up paper and assorted buttons on the edge of the sandpit. She put the money inside the cash register — Tap tap ting and shut the drawer —

Thunders ran the authentic-sounds-like-a-realkiwi kiwi up the blue tree and across the orange river on her two spindly legs. Then he threw her up in the air and caught her.

CLANG!

‘Also, kiwis can’t fly’, said Knights.

Wee-aah wee-aah

‘I knew it’, said Knights. ‘Sleeping. Told you she was hungry.’

The authentic-sounds-like-a-real-kiwi kiwi shot up in the air again.

But Thunders didn’t hear. He was busy drawing a helicopter up in the sky above the mountain.

Underneath the magnolia bush she could see the spindly legs of the authentic-sounds-like-areal-kiwi kiwi.

Felicity Williams spent many happy years playing in the backyard when she was little. She learned about science swinging around at breakneck speed on a rotary clothesline, about biology by frequent venturings inside a smelly chicken coop, and about commerce and finance with weekend-long monopoly marathons. Now that’s she’s somewhat grown up, she provides weekly improvised play experiences along similar lines for hundreds of children at Canvas Bag Drama School. canvasbag.nz

46 Autumn / 2018

Want to make bug cakes?

HERE’S HOW 1. Roll out some playdough into various shapes. Bugs come in all shapes and sizes – long, short, chunky, skinny.

Look them up on the internet and choose the ones you like!

2. Roll the worms in leaves, petals, grass clippings.

3. Add small pebbles for eyes, twigs for legs, leaves for wings.

4. Put them in the garden and wait and see!

Art activity designed by Felicity Williams felicitywilliams.nz

slimeFUN! It’s slippery, squishy and squelchy, it’s slime!

Create your own slime between 11am - 2pm 16 - 27 April* Solve the Slime Scavenger Hunt for your free pottle of galaxy slime. Get your map from the customer service desk.

northlands.co.nz

*Terms and conditions apply. See northlands.co.nz for details. While stocks last. Anzac Day, 25 April, hours 1pm–4pm.

Autumn / 2018

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