Kids on the Coast Magazine | Gold Coast - Issue 91. May/Jun 2021

ISSUE 91 May/June 2021 GOLD COAST

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

100% locally owned & operated

Free trial day offered

FREE nappies, wipes and sunscreen included Breakfast, lunch and snacks offered

Small Boutique Kindy Family Owned and Operated Tel: 5596 1458 Email: admin@kandieskidsaus.com www.kandieskidsaus.com

FREE PROGRAMS OFFERED: • Language program • Manners matter • Ball skills • Science and movement classes • Secret garden and library 1-9 Tibbing Street, Nerang Opening Hours: 6:30am-6:00pm

WELCOME

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’m often amazed by the next generation coming through.

It seems there is always an inventive child designing a gadget to clean up the ocean or launching a community project to improve lives. We are in the era of the innovators and the change makers; a time where anything is possible and kids are rising to the challenge.

A lot of this may be down to the opportunities available today. The technology revolution has opened doors we never imagined possible when we were younger. But I also believe that it is due to the parents (yay, you!). Most of the time we see ourselves as ‘just another frazzled parent’. We don’t have the time (or energy) to change the world—or even to fold the laundry. However, as we busily raise the next generation, we literally have the future in our hands.

So, take a moment to pat yourself on the back, because the kids growing up today are thoughtful, creative, and eager to

Kids Helpline: www.kidshelpline.com.au // 1800 55 1800

make our world a better place.

With this in mind, this issue we step into the future and meet the next generation!

Get ready for some feel-good vibes, as we meet the kids bringing a positive change to the region and the schools and organisations making that possible.

And, in doing our own bit to support the next generation, 5 per cent of our profits from this issue will go straight to Kids Helpline. #GoodDeed.

Operated by our official charity partner, yourtown, Kids Helpline is a critical service to have in your village. Add the number to your family essentials contact list and check out their website (www.kidshelpline.com. au). With supervised chatrooms and a site full of resources for young people navigating life today, it’s so much more than a helpline. It is well worth making your child aware there is support there, should they ever need it.

Angela xo

YOUR WEEKLY GUIDE TO KID-SIZED LIVING

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THE TEAM

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Angela Sutherland

PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR Helen Rush

NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Francesca Goad

DIGITAL MANAGER Karine Godin

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tanya Nissen

GRAPHIC DESIGN Danielle Lunn

facebook.com/kidsonthecoast kidsonthecoastmagazine pinterest.com/kidsonthecoast issuu.com/kidsonthecoastmagazine K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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CONTENTS

FEATURES 16

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EDUCATION: The Australian-first project that has unearthed a future generation of changemakers at St Hilda’s.

ENVIRONMENT: Nature is Nurture...

Connecting kids with the environment to raise future ecologists.

PUBLISHED BY

SH RE

MEDIA

PO Box 852, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573 inbox@shoremedia.com.au Phone 07 5471 2362

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ADVERTISING

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helen@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706 francesca@shoremedia.com.au 0432 674 159

FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: DANIEL SNARE / WWW.DANIELSNARE.COM

JUL/AUG 2021 BOOKING DEADLINES

REGULARS FROM THE EDITOR .............................................................................................................. 3 WHAT’S ON: Events and activities for families ....................................................................... 6 NEWS: Community news from across the Gold Coast ......................................................... 10 CHECK THIS OUT: The best kid-friendly gear topping our #want list ............................ 14

Ad booking: 31 May 2021 Art deadline: 2 June 2021 Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across South East Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast.

For distribution enquiries inbox@shoremedia.com.au

EDUCATION PROFILE: A learning community purpose built for the middle years .... 20

Printed at Print Works

PARENTHOOD: The growing pains of adolescence ............................................................ 22

All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications are published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Feedback, comments or suggestions?

Send to: inbox@shoremedia.com.au.

We aim to reply to all correspondence.

EARLY LEARNING: Reading has changed the world, will it change yours? ...................... 24 WELLBEING: Healing children through art therapy ............................................................ 26 RECIPE: Simple Apple & Pear Crumble ................................................................................. 32 CLASSIFIEDS: Family friendly products and services ........................................................ 33 REVIEWS: Books and apps for the family ............................................................................ 34

We encourage recycling. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

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More than a magazine, we are a vibrant community, bringing the best in local news, events, features and more to parents across the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Made by local parents, for local parents, we strive to be the first place that families come to connect; where they are understood, supported and inspired.

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We are committed to bringing you editorial with integrity. Any assistance we do receive from local businesses to produce stories does not compromise the integrity of our coverage.

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WHAT’S ON ONLINE, FACE-TO-FACE AND #COVID SAFE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE EVENTS!

CREATURES OF THE DARK BLUES ON BROADBEACH 20 TO 23 MAY Broadbeach Precinct www.bluesonbroadbeach.com

19 JUNE 6.00 - 7.30PM Arundel | www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au

Turn on your night vision and get set for a night time adventure with a light one-hour walk, spotting some of Australia’s most iconic animals. The walk will be followed by a half hour wildlife show, so you’re guaranteed to see some amazing wildlife up close. Suitable for ages five years and over. Free activity, bookings essential.

Blues on Broadbeach is back in 2021, bringing with it a diverse array of local Aussie talent.The festival features 20 performance areas, both on the stunning beachfront and throughout the vibrant streets of Broadbeach. There is amazing food, music and activities for all ages spread throughout the festival precinct.

Iceworld

FAMILY FUN AT PARADISE RESORT EACH DAY OFFERS SOMETHING DIFFERENT THROUGHOUT MAY AND JUNE www.paradiseresort.com.au The extensive daily activities include unlimited use of the waterpark, dunk tank, ice-skating, rock-climbing, laser tag, local wildlife train ride and so much more. For something the whole family can enjoy, check out the poolside movies, family bingo, family trivia plus a range of live entertainment.

school holiday public sessions WEEKDAYS DURING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Iceworld Acacia Ridge & Boondall www.iceworld.com.au/online-bookings Strap on your skates because Iceworld is holding two cool public sessions every weekday during the school holidays.

Bookings are essential due to demand and restricted numbers.

On The Move TO 18 JULY | www.ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au Ipswich Art Gallery

Enter an interactive transport world created in collaboration with illustrator James Gulliver Hancock. Construct a paper plane and see how it flies, then build a vehicle of the future to test on our track. Discover how transportation works in busy cities, and how the fuel choices you make can have a positive impact on the environment.

Plus find plenty of fascinating facts along the way.

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MAKING A MINI ORCHESTRA

WITH LOOPING EVERY MONDAY FROM 10 MAY TO 28 JUNE | HOTA www.hota.com.au

Kids will learn how to use their musical skills to create larger than life sounds.

This workshop is part of the Kids Imagine program and is for kids aged 10-15 who can play an instrument. The Kids Imagine program is like nothing you’ve seen before! Unlike dance or acting classes, these workshops encourage kids to take the lead, come up with ideas and work with professional artists to produce amazing performances.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

* WE PUBLISH INFORMATION BASED ON WHAT IS SUPPLIED TO US - TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE ALL DETAILS ARE CORRECT AT THE TIME OF PRINTING, HOWEVER WE DO RECOMMEND YOU CHECK EVENT DETAILS WITH THE ORGANISERS.

NATURALLYGC

WHAT’S ON ONLINE, FACE TO FACE AND #COVID SAFE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE EVENTS!

PREGNANCY, BABIES & CHILDREN’S EXPO

GIGGLE & HOOT 1 TO 3 JULY | Brisbane Powerhouse www.brisbanepowerhouse.org

Join Jimmy Giggle and his owl pals Hoot and Hootabelle for a hootastic live adventure on stage! You’ll set off on a pirate adventure to find Mini Hoot, witness the self-proclaimed ‘World’s Greatest Magician’—Magician Jimmy Giggle-ini—then hoot off into the Giggle Galaxy to help Hootabelle twinklify the stars, with plenty of fun along the way.

18 TO 20 JUNE Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre | www.pbcexpo.com.au Discover all you need to know from bump, to birth and beyond at the PBC Expo, Australia’s largest early parenting event! Free entry, tickets required.

Mudgeeraba Street Party 16 MAY Mudgeeraba mudgeerabastreetparty.com.au

Mudgeeraba Street Party is back in 2021 with an incredible line up of live music and interactive displays, and over 100 stalls and activities.

Enjoy the famous street parade through town, live music on the Village Green, plus plenty of family friendly activities including rock climbing, jumping castles and pony rides.

COOLY ROCKS ON 9 TO 13 JUNE Coolangatta Beach www.coolyrockson.com Get your cars, dancing shoes and best outfits ready for Australia’s largest Rock ‘n’ Roll and nostalgia festival.

The festival’s highlights include the classic cars show ‘n’ shine, live music, vintage markets, dance classes and more.

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SWAMP JUICE 1 TO 5 JUNE Cremorne Theatre, QPAC www.qpac.com.au

Bickering snails, neurotic snakes, opera singing mice and a cranky man out to capture a bird—welcome to a swamp like no other! Using jaw dropping shadow puppets made from household objects and bits of rubbish, puppeteer Jeff Achtem creates a wildly imaginative adventure about life in a swamp.

SNOW WHITE TO 19 JUNE | Brisbane Arts Theatre www.artstheatre.com.au

This Australian children’s musical returns to the original tale of the wicked queen who was so jealous of her beautiful step-daughter that she orders her into the forest to be killed. When the royal huntsman fails to complete the job, the queen uses her own evil magic to try to kill Snow White, who is helped along the way by some very unusual dwarfs.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

* WE PUBLISH INFORMATION BASED ON WHAT IS SUPPLIED TO US - TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE ALL DETAILS ARE CORRECT AT THE TIME OF PRINTING, HOWEVER WE DO RECOMMEND YOU CHECK EVENT DETAILS WITH THE ORGANISERS.

LIVE ON STAGE

Theme Park packages available

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Self contained 2 and 3 bedroom Villas, Cabins, Terraces or Bungalows, caravan and camping sites available Plenty of indoors and outdoors activities to keep the kids entertained.

Monster Waterpark

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Heated Pool with wading pool, and Spa

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Jumping Pillow

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Nibbles Café and Nibbles Terrace

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Dog Friendly

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Camp Kitchen

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MAGIC IN EVERY STAY Set on 32 acres, with a range of accommodation options and activities, there is plenty of fun for the whole family.

And we are located next door to all major theme parks.

P: (07) 5514 4400 | E: stay@gcpark.com.au | W: www.goldcoastholidaypark.com.au BIG4GoldCoastHolidayPark

big4goldcoast

LOCAL NEWS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE NEWS: KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU GOT A STORY TO SHARE? EMAIL OUR EDITOR AT INBOX@SHOREMEDIA.COM.AU

PAEDIATRIC FIRST AID TRAINING FOR PARENTS

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aramedic and Sunshine Coast mum of two Jess Peters has launched an immersive paediatric first aid workshop for parents and carers across Southeast Queensland.

Rescueblue teaches a practical, hands-on, fun workshop targeted at parents and carers with children aged between 0 to 12, teaching them the knowledge and skills they will need if faced with an emergency situation.

“I’ve been a paramedic for nearly 13 years and the worst thing I have seen is a parent standing helplessly by their side child’s side during a crisis and not knowing what to do,” said Jess. “There’s lots that can be done prior to an ambulance arriving that can significantly change the outcome of the emergency. I realised I could empower parents more by teaching

rather than treating.”

Rescueblue offers private workshops that are held in people’s homes (for groups of 6), and monthly public sessions in Gold Coast, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast.

“At Rescueblue, our workshops are hands-on and practical so that parents can develop the muscle memory to act in real life emergency situation.

“In a crisis, we instinctually fall back to our base level of training.

This workshop takes away the unknown and the uncertainty, and gives you the training to know what to do and how to act in an emergency situation.”

“At Rescueblue we aim to engage, educate and empower every parent with the knowledge to save their child’s life.” www.rescueblue.com.au

OZHARVEST’S FEAST PROGRAM

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nspiring primary school students to waste less, eat healthy food and become future change-makers is the aim of OzHarvest’s education program, FEAST (Food Education and Sustainability Training). The program won the 2020 Banksia Sustainability Award for Not For Profits and NGOs. FEAST Program Manager Amelia Berner said the program came from the belief that educating children is essential to creating a sustainable future.

“It was a huge honour for OzHarvest to be chosen as the winner of this award, amongst so many organisations doing incredible work. This high profile recognition from The Banksia

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WINS SUSTAINABILITY AWARD Foundation shows the importance of the FEAST program—not just to children but to the whole community.”

OzHarvest Founder and CEO Ronni Kahn AO said, “We have seen over 10,000 students undertake the program and the positive feedback has been overwhelming. It’s so rewarding to see the positive ripple effect within the whole community as children share their new knowledge with family and friends.”

Schools can run FEAST for 7-10 weeks and it is aligned to the Australian Curriculum. Aimed at Years 5 and 6, the program teaches kids about sustainability, food waste and nutrition using hands-on cooking and inquiry-based learning.

Students learn to waste less and eat healthily thanks to the FEAST program.

www.ozharvest.org/feast K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

LOCAL NEWS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE NEWS: KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU EMAIL YOUR LOCAL STORIES TO: INBOX@SHOREMEDIA.COM.AU

The Pregnancy, Babies and Children’s Expo returns

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NEW AUSTRALIAN GUIDELINES FOR KIDS IN OSHC

roundbreaking research from the hours of physical activities and no more University of South Australia has than two hours of screen time across the delivered world-first nationalwhole day. level guidelines to better inform children’s In Australia, less than one in four children physical activity and screen time in Outside achieve the recommended 60 minutes School Hours Care (OSHC). of physical activity each day. On average, Developed with input from the OSHC primary school-aged children (aged 5-14) sector, the guidelines aim to spend more than two hours “OSHC ... SHOULD address growing concerns each day sitting or lying down BE PLAY-BASED AND about children’s sedentary during screen-based activities. behaviour, marked by an UniSA’s Rosa Virgara says FUN, WITH AMPLE increase in regular screen having the OSHC sector on OPPORTUNITY time. Research shows that 31board was critical.

FOR FREE ACTIVE 79 per cent of OSHC sessions “The main physical activity OUTDOOR PLAY” are sedentary. concept across all aspects of The guidelines state: OSHC was that it should be play-based and • Before School Care should schedule 45 fun, with ample opportunity for free, active, minutes of physical activities and no more outdoor play, rather than being structured than 30 minutes of screen time. and run like a physical education class.

• After School Care should schedule 90 “The emphasis on free play is consistent minutes of physical activities and no more with other research that shows that over than 60 minutes of screen time. half of children’s physical exercise is • Vacation Care should schedule at least 2-3 accumulated during outdoor free play.”

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howcasing big brands, best prices, special offers, and latest innovations all under one roof, the Pregnancy, Babies and Children’s Expo returns to Brisbane for three huge days this June.

Parents can see, touch, feel and buy products and speak directly with trusted experts. Exhibitors will be on hand to answer questions and help parents make the right choices for pregnancy, baby, and the growing family.

The Expo will host a range of free talks, with expert tips and up-to-date information from specialist speakers.

PBC Expo Midwife Hannah Willsmore will hold antenatal classes covering important topics including care provider options, stages of labour, pain relief, birth plans and birth.

Hannah is a registered Midwife in private practice, a certified Hypnobirthing Australia Practitioner, and an award-winning childbirth educator.

The Australian Breastfeeding Association will present an informative talk covering the benefits of breastfeeding, what’s involved and how it works, plus supply and demand feeding, positioning and attachment.

Red Nose Australia will also be there to advise parents on safe sleeping. Learn how to reduce the risk of SIDS, stillbirth, miscarriage and fatal sleep accidents for babies and toddlers in your care.

The PBC Expo runs from 18-20 June at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Get your free tickets at pbcexpo.com.au/ promo/brisbane-expo.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

CHECK THIS OUT THE KID-SIZED ESSENTIALS WE LOVE THIS MONTH

DIPD NAIL KIT MOVABLE WALL ART - SPACE ANIMALS Kids can create colourful (damage free) wall art with Tiger Tribe’s Magic Movable Wall Art. Using the markers included, budding artists can colour an outer space adventure full of playful animal astronauts, stars and rocket illustrations on magical removable stickers. They are easily peeled and adhered to other surfaces with no mess or residue. Suitable for ages 5+. $25 www.tigertribe.com.au

MY NOOK PLAY SOFA My NooK is the original Australian play sofa designed during the 2020 COVID lockdown. The NooK encourages creative freedom and independent play, with kids able to use the 10 individual pieces to build a sofa, fort, castle, obstacle course, sleepover bed, or anything their imagination desires. $595 www.mynook.com.au

DIPD Nails is fast becoming the alternative to visiting the salon. A perfect solution for the busy mum! An Australian made and owned dip powder system, just like the SNS you get from the salon only you can do it yourself. With a huge range of colours to choose from and an easy step guide to follow, get up to 10 manicures in one pot of colour. Choose DIPD Nails for lasting, durable nails on demand. Cruelty free, vegan and quick delivery. Starter kits from $99.90 // www.dipdnails.com.au

AL.IVE BABY DUO Launched by TV reno sisters Alisa and Lysandra, The al.ive range uses carefully selected ingredients for young skin. Infused with Pear Extract, Jojoba Oil & Calendula, this duo will work to cleanse and moisturise your little one’s skin.

Enjoy the 100% natural fragrance of gentle pear, a sweet and fruity scent that you and your little one will love. $65 www.alivebody.com.au

BELLO BALANCING FARM Try to balance as many colourful farm animals on top of each other as you can! Handcrafted and handpainted using durable, non-toxic, chewfriendly materials, this delightful game is safety and quality tested and comes with a lifetime guarantee.

For ages 3+ years. $29.99 www.kidstuff.com.au

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K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

STAMPIES

B.BOX & MONTIICO LUNCHBOX COMBO

Use code KOTC10 for your 10% discount

This b.box lunchbox features a clever adjustable compartment divider so you can fit in whole fruit, a sandwich and snacks. And the leak-proof silicone seal means snacks and wet foods stay put (because nobody wants watermelon in the pretzels). Pair with an on-trend MontiiCo cooler bag and you have the best lunchbox duo we’ve ever found! Machine washable and made to last, the MontiiCo bag features a quality aluminium lining and seperate pocket for the ice pack. This combo is only available at Coastal Kidswear, along with a fab range of kids apparel and accessories, and gorgeous gear for the busy mum. $29.95 / $39.95 www.coastalkidswear.com.au

This fun new silicone animal cookie stamp range from We Might Be Tiny features 15 cute and colourful creatures to turn ordinary creations into extraordinary treats for the young and young-at-heart! Every Stampies set comes with a stainless steel cookie cutter, 1 wooden stamper and 15 easily interchangeable, food-grade silicone animal stamps.

The hard part will picking your favourite animal character!

Don’t fancy baking? They make the perfect play dough stamps too! $45 // www.wemightbetiny.com.au

CUBO AI PLUS Cubo Ai Plus is the first baby monitor to apply AI to baby sleep and safety.

With real-time detection alerts, Cubo Ai enables roll-over, face covering, cry (not noise), and danger-zone detection alerts. It also has sleep analytics and temperature / humidity detection, and a family sharing feature. If that’s not enough, with its sleek and adorable bird design, the Cubo Ai Plus also sings lullabies for kids as they drift to Zzz-land. $499 www.au.getcubo.com

PERSONALISED SNUGGLE BLANKET YTG/YTB STONEWASH JUMPER We LOVE these new stonewash beauties from My Little Wardrobe! Not only are they super stylish but these 100% organic cotton fleece jumpers will keep your little one super warm and comfy this winter. $39.95 www.mylittlewardrobe.com.au K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Little ones will be warm and snuggly this winter with this personalised blanket from Blankids. The customisable double-sided designs include a range of bold patterns, as well as neutral colourways, with something to suit every child’s individual personality. Each one is printed, cut, sewn and shipped from their Australian factory. From $40 www.blankids.com.au M AY / J U N E 2021

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THE GIRLS DESIGNING A CITY FOR THE

FUTURE

Students from St Hilda’s School embarked on an Australian-first project last year, and it unearthed a future generation brimming with change makers determined to build a sustainable future.

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K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

E D U C AT I O N

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t the beginning of 2020, twentytwo Year 3 and 4 students from St Hilda’s School started working with a school in Dubai on an exciting collaborative project with the potential of changing the future.

Not your usual project for 8 to 10 year olds, the Future Cities project challenged the girls to design and develop a city for the future from the ground up. This included everything from economics, resource management and the city’s infrastructure, to population growth, residents’ wellbeing and employment. A group of students from partner school GEMS The Kindergarten Starters School in Dubai were set the same task, and the students were to collaborate and share ideas across the globe as they progressed.

“We were working towards the end goal of showcasing the project at World Expo2020 in Dubai, which is a huge expo that focuses on innovation, sustainability, education and collaboration from around the world,” said Amanda Shuttlewood, Head of St Hilda’s Junior School.

The project was conceived before the COVID pandemic, so the girls were hoping to travel to Dubai in 2020 to present their future city concepts in person.

Unfortunately, due to COVID, the expo was postponed. However, both schools decided to keep going with the project, regardless.

In their pods, the girls gradually worked “The project was always going to have a their way through all the potential needs of certain amount managed online, so we had a city—from waste management to housing. the systems in place to make an easy shift “We even managed to hold a session to a wholly virtual collaboration, but it did with a representatives from Gold Coast make things more challenging,” said Ms City Council, and students from both Gold Shuttlewood. “For example, Coast and Dubai could ask the students in Dubai were questions and present their “The girls really mostly studying from home, preliminary ideas,” said embraced the which meant the group Amanda. collaboration was much As the project grew, in challenge and harder to achieve— getting October 2020 GEMS The enjoyed groups to connect wasn’t Kindergarten Starters School easy to coordinate—but hosted the Schools Conference collaborating the students on both sides of Parties Expo (SCOPE) in virtually” handled it really well.”

Dubai—a world-wide expo To deliver the project, the focused on children driving girls worked in mini groups, or research sustainability and climate change. pods. These pods would each choose a topic “Uniting schools and young people from to research together, gathering data and all corners of the world, including India, information and bringing it back to the Costa Rica and Australia, we were very group to share their findings. They would proud that one of our Year 6 students then collaborate online with GEMS The presented virtually about a United Nations Kindergarten Starters School in Dubai to key topic on sustainability and gender discuss their progress and ideas. equality,” Amanda said.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Sustainability was a priority for students in both cities.

TWO DIFFERENT WORLDS, YET THE SAME Partnering with a school in Dubai offered a very different perspective on what future needs were, and students were surprised to find there was more commonality in their challenges than they expected.

“It was a wonderful opportunity for students from both sides to understand the other’s world. The Dubai school offered a very different perspective, but at the same time, had many of the same concerns,” said Amanda.

“It’s been a very unique experience for the girls to connect globally. It’s certainly been a shared experience with both St Hilda’s and GEMS The Kindergarten Starters School learning so much. It was a wonderful way to unite the globe to discuss challenges and solutions together to create a sustainable future.”

“These are big concepts for primary students to be tackling, involving a lot of creative thinking and problem solving,” Amanda continued. “But the girls really M AY / J U N E 2021

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E D U C AT I O N

St Hilda’s girls have big plans for their future city.

“We need to be raising problem solvers, critical and creative thinkers and future global citizens” embraced the challenge and enjoyed collaborating virtually and learning about sustainability from a global perspective.”

“For our students, their future and their opportunities are global. Developing global perspectives and broader thinking skills is invaluable. We need to be raising problem solvers, critical and creative thinkers and future global citizens—this project was a wonderful opportunity to do that.”

W H AT ’ S N E X T ?

With the participating students now in Year 4 and 5, the Future City project is due to be completed by the end of Term 2 2021. But what’s next for this exciting partnership?

“We aren’t entirely sure, but it’s certainly not the end!” said Amanda. “We could look at starting the process again with a new group of students. And there are still plans for the expo to happen post-COVID, so that is something for the next group to work towards, possibly.”

Thanks to the strong relationship between the two schools, there are many other opportunities that may also develop.

“We’ve now done a few things outside of this project together, so that relationship is certainly something that will continue,” said Amanda. “We connect quite regularly with Dubai now.”

The innovative project was first suggested by Study Gold Coast, and had support from Gold Coast City Council,

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Trade and Investment Queensland and federally with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. With a 20-year partnership between Dubai and Gold Coast, it’s another successful collaboration between the two progressive cities.

“We are the first school in Australia to have this opportunity,” said Amanda. “So, it’s been a very exciting journey.”

WHY BE GLOBAL? Global Learning is a key focus at St Hilda’s School and their programs teach girls about global issues and encourage them to see the world through the eyes of others. Students strive to be global citizens, raising awareness of marginalised communities and participating in global aid and community projects. This is all best expressed with their school motto: Non Nobis Solum – Not For Ourselves Alone.

The school is also aligned with Amnesty International—an organisation that raises awareness regarding violations of human rights on a global scale. Amnesty gives students a voice to see that they can actively participate in protests against abuses. The Amnesty and International Groups within the school have been working hard organising awareness campaigns throughout the school.

The Future Cities project is just one part of the innovative and modern curriculum offered at St Hilda’s School, and this progressive school offers many

opportunities for students to experience a range of educational and real-life adventures—locally and around the globe.

The lively learning environment on offer caters for the diverse needs of young women. Their dynamic curriculum enables young women to become valuable contributors to the wider community and make an impact on the global society. With this, the curriculum enables St Hilda’s School to offer a nurturing and engaging learning environment which inspires young women and equips them with the values, knowledge, skills and confidence they will need to serve, shape and change the world.

As the only all girls’ school on the Gold Coast, St Hilda’s prides itself on supporting young women to dream and achieve.

“We encourage girls to participate, dream big and embrace every opportunity available to them,” said Amanda. “There is no obstacle preventing them from exploring a career in any area. In our unique all-girls environment, girls see strong female role models and see that with effort and dedication, they too can achieve their goals.”

INFORMATION TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ST HILDA’S SCHOOL, VISIT WWW.STHILDAS.QLD.EDU.AU

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

explore

Book a tour and

Meet our welcoming community, explore our campus and discover the advantages of an all-girls education from Pre-Prep to Year 12 at St Hilda’s School.

Now enrolling for 2022 and beyond.

Visit sthildas.qld.edu.au INSPIRING WOMEN FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY

E D U C AT I O N P R O F I L E

A LEARNING COMMUNITY PUR P O S E BU I LT F OR T HE MI DDLE YEA RS

A

s technology and future jobs continue to change, educators are ensuring that the next generation are going to be ready.

One significant challenge is to create a school structure and environment that allows students to develop skills that are scalable.

While adolescence can be a challenging time for students and their families, it’s also an important transition point for every child.

Young people move from the simple thinking of childhood to the more complex, critical thinking of adolescence. They start to build a capacity to consider various social issues, ethics and different perspectives.

As young people explore these perspectives, they often grapple with a variety of stronger emotions. At times, they may struggle with processing thoughts and feelings, which can be challenging for them and for everyone around them.

As a large proportion of their time is at school, adolescents require a different and focused approach that will meet their needs.

Furthermore, the relationships and support structures that students form during these years are critical to their development.

To meet these needs, Hillcrest Christian

Specifically designed open learning spaces.

College has created a Middle Learning Community (MLC) for students in Years 5-8.

The MLC guides these students with ageappropriate learning that builds on their personal interests, whilst also supporting their social and emotional wellbeing.

This emphasis on student welfare, supported by a strong relationship between school and home, ensures the best outcome for every child.

Students in Years 5-8 study an extended curriculum and are supported throughout by caring staff who provide a gradual release of responsibility. With access to specialist learning areas, students can enjoy the best of both worlds as they pursue their interests and strengths.

Featuring the latest open learning environments with various sized learning facilities, Hillcrest’s MLC is purpose-built to provide authentic learning experiences for its students. The layout provides flexibility for teachers to utilise different spaces for learning that resembles real world workplaces.

Various soft skills such as teamwork and creative thinking are developed through this style of learning.

Students learn how to innovate, solve

problems and utilise methodologies such as Design Thinking to manage their own learning and develop skills that can be built on in future years.

Educational research makes it clear that students in their middle years learn differently. Hillcrest supports students and prepares them for their transition into the senior years and the world after school.

W W W.H I L L C R E S T.Q L D.E D U. A U /M L C

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K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Are you worried about the world around you?

...Kids Helpline is here for you.

Anytime, any reason.

If you just want to talk... give us a call on

1800 55 1800 or WebChat us at kidshelpline.com.au

Parents you’re not alone.

Call us for a chat

1300 30 1300 | Parentline.com.au WebChat 8am to 9pm daily

Parentline is a free, confidential counselling service for parents.

THE GROWING PAINS OF

A

t Parentline, we consistently receive calls asking for support in several areas: parents dealing with unruly teens and their high-risk behaviour; parents who feel like they have lost their connection with their child; and parents who just feel rejected. These are all normal events and are some of the growing pains of adolescence. Remember, every child is different; they will each grow at different rates and have different views of the world they live in.

At Parentline, we can help you, the parents, help your teenagers navigate this period by offering individual guidance and support— there is ‘no one size fits all’ approach. Rather than trying to avoid the issues of this period, we can work with you and help you to understand it better. Adolescence is a pathway to independence. Next to the first few years of life, it’s the biggest period of change we’ll experience in our lives. So many changes are coming on board at this point— including biological, emotional and social changes.

Adolescence is one big transition period. Teenagers are working out things for themselves, understanding more about what is going on around them and within their bodies. This comes with trying to impress their peers and seeking acknowledgement, which can be the opposite of what you, their parents, are telling them they need to do.

Your role, as a parent, is to ultimately nurture your children, as they grow into independent, resourceful, kind and resilient adults, by giving them the building blocks to help them figure out who they are.

You will not always understand their likes, style, friendships groups, and even their career pathways, but that’s ok. Your children may keep secrets from you and they may value their peers’ opinions more. They may engage in high-risk behaviours and choose loyalty to friends over family. They will test the boundaries that you, as their parent, has set.

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S O M E T I P S T O C O N S I D E R :

• Try to keep your frustration to a minimum and understand that this isn’t a choice. Your teenagers are not doing this to annoy you.

This is a biological step in their development.

• Take a moment to consider why this is tough for you? Do you feel disconnected from your child? Are you sad that you aren’t the most important person in their life right now?

• Once you take this moment to understand how it is affecting you, ask yourself whether this is affecting how you are reacting to them.

If you understand this, you can connect with them better.

• Give them support and space for their identity to develop, whilst letting them know you are always there for a chat and a hug.

• Make them feel as comfortable as they need to be to seek you out when and if they need to. This will be hard if you natural reaction is to do the opposite.

• Discuss how others might perceive them or their friends if they are different. Help them to understand that being different is ok.

• Respect their privacy, but let them know that you are there.

• Encourage them to talk to a trusted adult. If they can’t talk to you, our colleagues at Kids Helpline (for 5-25 year olds) are available 24/7 via WebChat, phone and email, at any time and for any reason.

• This will allow them to achieve independence; to know that they can fall, make mistakes, create success and kick goals in the knowledge that you are there for them.

Although this can be an uneasy time in your relationship with your teenagers, know that Parentline is here, 7 days a week, to help and support you in helping and supporting your children.

Call for a chat about anything on 1300 30 1300 or jump online at parentline.com.au for a WebChat. Parentline counsellors are waiting and are here to help.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

JW FAMILY COASTAL ESCAPE Create life’s most meaningful moments in luxury accommodation with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Gold Coast Hinterland.

Enjoy a poolside retreat and snorkel in the resorts iconic saltwater lagoon streaming with tropical fish.

Reconnect with a family getaway including 3 night’s accommodation, daily breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children, complimentary snorkel hire, complimentary kids meals, and a choice of JW Garden herb and gardening class or a kids culinary sushi or pizza making class.

Valid until December 19, 2021. Promotional code H09. *Terms and conditions apply. Kids 12yrs and under. Subject to availability.

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Reading has changed the world‚ W

AND IT COULD CHANGE YOURS

hat do Bill Gates, Elon Musk and William Kamkwamba all have in common?

It’s not their fortunes or their inventive minds. The answer is much more simplistic. All three of these revolutionary figures found an early love for reading, and through their love of books, they unlocked the key to success.

As a struggling fourth grader, Bill Gates was desperately trying to make it through school whilst going unnoticed. Ashamed of his poor handwriting (what experts now call dysgraphia) and messy desk (a trait studies have linked to intelligence), he retreated from the world between the pages of his books.

But, it wasn’t until he befriended Blanche Caffiere, his primary school librarian when this love for reading transformed into a passion for learning. Bill Gates wrote about Blanche in an online memoir.

“She pulled me out of my shell by sharing her love of books. She started by asking questions like, ‘What do you like to read?’ and ‘What are you interested in?’ Then she found me a lot of books—ones that were more complex and challenging than the Tom Swift Jr. science fiction books I was reading at the time.”

“Mrs Caffiere took me under her wing and

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helped make it okay for me to be a messy, and print). They open doors to imagination nerdy boy who was reading lots of books.” and creative thinking and offer a safe space Like software development, inventing for us to fall in love with learning. electric cars and revolutionising space travel Whether we’re researching for a PhD, doesn’t just happen by chance. It requires reading classic literature or picking up our innovative thinking, problem solving skills first book, the library is a place where we and a wildly alive imagination. Skills that might find our very own Blanche Caffiere. neuroscience tells us reading helps to develop.

Sunshine Coast Libraries connect our So it’s not a total surprise to read that community with high quality information Elon Musk (founder of Tesla and resources, skills based SpaceX) was ‘raised by books’. workshops, tutorials, reading READING ISN’T JUST Growing up, he’d spend up to programs and even book clubs.

ABOUT IMPROVED 10 hours a day reading science They’re places to find likeLITERACY, IT’S A fiction novels and encyclopedias. minded individuals, to learn new LIFELONG HOBBY Helping him to make sense of skills and are often where a child THAT CAN TAKE US the world around him and the experiences their earliest forms ON ADVENTURES problems it would one day face, of independence. For them, a WHEREVER AND these books paved the way for his WHENEVER WE PLEASE. library card is a is a key that future career. unlocks endless possibilities.

In 2001, William Kamwamba, Maybe they’ll dive into the a Malawian teenager, saved his village science section and learn about engineering from drought and hunger by building an or space. Perhaps they’ll fall in love with the underground water pump from scrap metal magical worlds of Harry Potter, Narnia or and tree bark. But how did a 14-year-old The Jungle Book. Because, after all, reading boy build such an impressive structure with isn’t just about cognitive development or discarded materials found at his local dump? improved literacy, it’s a lifelong hobby that By exploring the science books at his local can take us on adventures wherever and library. whenever we please.

Public libraries offer us access to an

By Karen Gawen, Young People’s Services infinite wealth of knowledge (both digital Supervisor from Sunshine Coast Council K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

W

Getting your child SCHOOL-READY

ith new teachers, peers and expectations, it’s important that your child feels prepared for their first year of school, and it’s never too early to start preparing for the transition.

“It’s very important that you have routine and structure in your home environment, as this will allow your child to transition into the schooling life,” says Gateway Therapies Occupational Therapist, Steph Holgate.

Attending childcare and kindergarten can help enormously in establishing these routines, says Samantha Campbell Pedagogical Leader at Edge Early Learning.

“Edge Early Learning introduces each child to the concept of routine

by embedding an element of consistency into each day, says Samantha.”

“Ensuring your child is able to jump, run, catch balls and have good hand-eye coordination is also very important as it allows them to engage in the playground and, later on, in PE class,” said Steph.

Samantha agrees, saying, “Edge’s play-based approach to learning means children really enjoy the activities they try, and new friendships are forged whilst children also develop the ‘general play skills’ that are so important.”

“Sometimes kids are reluctant to read, but if it becomes a fun activity it will help with their motivation,” says Gateway Therapies Speech and Language Pathologist, Claire. “Before prep, children are in their crucial years for early learning. Everything that they learn in these early years will have an impact on their lives, so I recommend reading with them as often as you can.”

Claire also suggests encouraging your children to trace words as you read them. This builds ‘print awareness’ which, Claire explains, is the understanding that there are shapes and letters that stand for certain words—a fantastic foundation for learning literacy later in life.

“It is for this reason that we emphasise both indoor activities like clay, colouring and art experiences, as well as outdoor activities like planting seeds in the garden at all our Edge centres,” says Samantha.

“Regular practice at tasks like these, both at childcare and at home, can really help your children—and you—feel more confident when they start school.”

EDGE EARLY LEARNING PROVIDES QUALITY CARE AND EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN 6 WEEKS TO SCHOOL AGE. LOCATED ON THE GOLD COAST IN BILINGA, COOMERA AND PIMPAMA, BOOK YOUR CENTRE TOUR AT WWW.EDGEEARLYLEARNING.COM.AU

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au COMING NEXT ISSUE...

FOOD & TRAVEL

We explore the best food and travel destinations for families: • Family friendly accommodation • ‘Kids eat free’ restaurants & cafes • Road trips • Mini break activities • Healthy eating for kids

TO BE INCLUDED, CONTACT: Helen Rush: helen@shoremedia.com.au | 0424 577 706 Francesca Goad: francesca@shoremedia.com.au | 0432 674 159

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

M AY / J U N E 2021

25

WELLBEING

Healing children through

ART D

rawing and creating is a natural part of childhood, and research is increasingly finding that these activities are also beneficial to health and wellbeing. Because of this, art therapy is now rightly recognised as an essential component of childhood development, behaviour management and overall health and wellbeing.

“Children’s involvement in arts activities are considered ‘multimodal interventions’, in that they combine different components that are known to be beneficial to health and wellbeing,” explains Behaviour Specialist Kasia Palko. “Arts activities can involve aesthetic engagement, utilisation of imagination, sensory activation, evocation of emotion and cognitive stimulation. Art activities may also involve social interaction, physical activity, and engagement and interaction within a therapeutic setting.”

Arts activities can engage and trigger psychological, physiological, social and behavioural responses that are linked with positive health outcomes.

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“When children are painting, sculpting or doing crafts, there is an aesthetic and emotional component to their work that provides opportunities for emotional expression and emotional regulation, as well as stress reduction. These are intrinsic to how we manage our mental health.”

Art can also make children view obstacles differently as there is no ‘wrong answer’ to creativity. “Such an attitude can play a large role in providing a sense of optimism for a child, not to mention a feeling of accomplishment upon the completion of an artistic task, both of which are essential to building confidence within children,” Kasia says.

Art experiences can also improve a child’s relationships with peers. “The social aspects of artistic interaction with other children can improve a child’s self-esteem and self-belief, whilst reducing feelings of loneliness and experiences of discrimination, which are linked with future mental illness and other conditions such as depression, chronic pain and

headaches,” Kasia continues.

In terms of the physical, the arts can reduce a child’s sedentary behaviours, which are associated with obesity, depression and chronic pain in adult life, and can also encourage health-promoting behaviours such as eating healthy food and experimenting with play.

Art therapy also has the potential to address some of the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). “Art therapy promotes sensory regulation, facilitates communication and supports psychomotor development, all while enhancing psycho-emotional wellbeing.”

Research has also found art therapy is an effective intervention to reduce anger and increase self-esteem in aggressive children.

“A recent study used art therapy once a week on a a group of aggressive children aged 7-11 years old,” Kasia explains. “After 10 weeks of art therapy, the group showed a significant reduction of anger and improvement of self-esteem.”

More information at www.kasiapalko.com.au

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

BENEFITS OF ART THERAPY NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION For children who cannot verbalise emotions, thoughts or sensations, or who are afraid to speak about a specific event, art can be a powerful form of nonverbal communication.

DEVELOPMENT Artistic development can help psychologists to better understand the developmental stages of a child that might not become apparent in talk therapy alone.

SELF REGULATION Specific art activities can be very effective in calming the body and mind, improving mood.

EXPRESSION Art is an opportunity to express a metaphor or enhance storytelling. With the support of a therapist, this can be an effective way for a child to externalise their internal feelings and safely release any trauma.

CHILD–THERAPIST CONNECTION Art is a relational therapy that involves an active and positive dynamic between therapist and child. Shared art experiences deepen the connection with the child, ensuring they feel understood and accepted and opening up further channels of communication.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

M AY / J U N E 2021

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NATURE

IS

NURTURE Connecting your kids to the environment

By Dr Sarah Pye

I Sun bears are even more rare than orangutans

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t was Boxing Day 2012. I had taken my young daughter, Amber, to Borneo with the aim of seeing a critically endangered orangutan. Sadly, I knew these primates may be extinct before she reached my age. We hunkered beneath my umbrella in a tropical downpour, our gaze captivated by our hairy cousin on the wooden platform before us. As we watched, he reached for a rainforest branch, broke off a twig of broad leaves and fashioned his own shelter. It appeared that he was equally as frustrated with the weather. My dreams of seeing orangutans swinging from vines was dashed, along with his wish for an uneventful banana lunch. I glanced around at the other 40 or so humans huddled in a heap and smiled.

“Who do you think is watching who?” I asked Amber.

“How was the orangutan feeding?” asked our hotel concierge as we dripped our way across the lobby. I wiggled my outstretched hand in the universal signal for mediocre, and indicated we would try again tomorrow. “Maybe you should call Dr Wong,” she said. “He runs the sun bear centre, but it’s not open to the public yet.”

Early the next morning, I reached for the phone and put on my

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

ENVIRONMENT

Malaysian ecologist Wong Siew Te has dedicated his life to studying and rescuing sun bears

best journalist voice. Little did I know, my conversation with Malaysian ecologist Wong Siew Te would change my life… and his.

On that first momentous day, as Amber and I heard all too often at school pickup time. What we often delighted in seeing the sun bears swinging from vines forget is, as parents, the future is literally in our hands As parents, 40m in the air, I was astounded to learn that sun bears and we hold the power to influence the next generation. the future is are even more rare than orangutans. The chance of any As Babe Dioum said, “we will conserve only what we grandchildren I may have seeing them outside of a zoo love; we will love only what we understand, and we will literally in our is slim, at best. understand only what we are taught”. As parents, we hands, and we Sun bears are prized by poachers for their body been handed an opportunity to foster a love of the hold the power have parts—most notably their gall bladder, which is wild world in our children. With that in mind, I echo to influence the Wong’s response to me and ask you to “do what you do purported to have medicinal properties. When mothers are killed, their orphaned offspring are sold into the next generation. best”. With any luck, my books can help. illegal pet trade. When the Sabah Wildlife Department Wildlife Wong and the Sun Bear begins with a rescues or confiscates sun bears, they send them to nonfiction narrative about my friend Wong and Damai, Wong at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. a tiny sun bear cub with an uncertain future. When we Wong spent 25 years studying the smallest of the world’s eight bear meet Damai, her mother has been killed by poachers. She is scared species, before creating this extraordinary facility. It now houses and alone. Wildlife Wong becomes her new mum. He teaches her to over 40 bears and his goal is both education and rehabilitation. climb trees and dig for food. Before long, she joins a gang of new sun Wong knows more about sun bears than anyone else on earth. bear friends. Life is much better, but will Damai ever be a free sun “If I don’t try to save them,” he said, “how can I expect anyone bear again? else to do it?”

With Wong’s rhetorical question hanging in the rainforest humidity, I asked what I could do to help. “Do what you do best,” RAISING FUTURE came his reply. Those five powerful words have been the architects of my last decade. As part of that adventure, I have come to know that ECOLOGISTS if we don’t reignite a connection between children and the natural Wildlife Wong and the Sun environment, sun bears (and the other creatures with whom they Bear is available through your share a habitat) are doomed. local bookshop and all major The most recent part of my journey has been writing Wildlife online retailers. Dr Sarah Pye Wong and the Sun Bear, the first in a series of chapter books with a is available to present to school difference. In this age where parents struggle to drag their kids from groups. Join the Wildlife Wong screens, my aim is to reconnect the next generation with nature Kids’ Club or contact Sarah at through books. It’s a lofty goal and I need your help. www.sarahrpye.com It’s easy to become complacent as a parent. “I’m just a mum” is K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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ENVIRONMENT

When children connect with the story, they learn interesting facts about sun bears and their rainforest home. They are then invited to conduct experiments and imagine themselves a scientist just like Wildlife Wong. With any luck, this may germinate a seed which grows into a future ecologist. To water that seed, each book in the Wildlife Wong series is linked to the online Wildlife Wong Kids Club with free experiment videos and a downloadable Nature Journal which helps them use what they have learnt to explore the natural world in their own backyard.

The first time I saw a sun bear, I knew I wanted to fight to keep them around. When I learnt their habitat also supports pygmy elephants, bearded pigs, macaques, clouded leopards, hornbills, orangutans and Sumatran rhinos, my blinkered view expanded. Since then, Sumatran rhinos have gone extinct in the wild. Such problems are not unique to Borneo. Closer to home, there are over 150 endangered species listed on the Sunshine Coast Council’s website alone. If we can work together to foster a love for natural things in our children, perhaps we can turn the tide.

Make a Cat Octopus toy The sun bears at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre play in the rainforest all day. They come back to the bear house at about 4pm for their dinner. The bear keepers make toys for them, so they don’t get bored in the evening. These toys are called enrichments. ANY animal who is left alone can get bored. Can you make an enrichment for your cat, or your friend’s cat? Or how about making some for animals in the shelter?

YOU WILL NEED: An empty cardboard toilet roll A pair of scissors Felt tip pens to decorate A hole punch Ribbon, string or wool

craft activity

STEPS: (Check out the video at www.sarahrpye.com) 1. Snip into the end of the toilet roll about half way 2. Do the same every 2-3 centimetres around the circle 3. Fan out your octopus’s legs 4. Draw or paint a face on the top section 5. Fold the top together so you can make two holes with the hole punch at the same time 6. Cut about 1-2 metres (6 feet) of ribbon, string or wool 7. Thread the ribbon, string or wool through the two holes and tie it together into a loop 8. Hold the loop and jump the octopus around in front of your cat!

This octopus toy is a fun enrichment for your cat.

TO FIND OUT MORE, VISIT WWW.SARAHRPYE.COM

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K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

RECIPE

SIMPLE CUSTARD APPLE & PEAR CRUMBLE

As the days are getting colder, it’s the perfect time for those hearty, healthy, warming recipes. This custard apple and pear crumble is delicious and super easy to make (as if we’d ever share anything else!). Kids will love it and with a couple of serves of fruit, it’s a win-win!

INGREDIENTS

For the filling 2 medium custard apples 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored & thinly sliced (800 g) ½ tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp sea salt 1 tbsp rapadura or coconut sugar (15 g) 2 tsp lemon juice For the crumble topping 1½ cups rolled oats ½ cup wholemeal, spelt, or gluten free flour (70 g) ¼ cup slivered almonds (35 g) ¼ cup maple syrup (60 ml) ¼ cup olive oil (60 ml), plus extra for baking dish Pinch sea salt

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METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Lightly brush a standard (22 cm) pie dish with a bit of olive oil.

2. Scoop custard apple from the skin and remove seeds. Discard seeds and skin. Combine custard apple flesh and sliced pears in a large bowl.

3. Sprinkle fruit with the ginger, salt, sugar and lemon juice, and toss gently to combine.

Tip into the prepared pie plate.

4. In a medium bowl, combine all crumble topping ingredients and stir until oats are evenly coated. Sprinkle crumble over fruit.

5. Place the baking dish on a tray to catch any drips and bake crumble for 30 minutes, until fruit is bubbling and topping is golden.

Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of yoghurt or ice cream.

Serves 6 – 8.

Did you know?

• The custard apple crop flourishes in line with the full moon ahead of Easter. It’s a unique phenomenon that occurs every year!

• Custard apples are an excellent source of Vitamin C, with one serve containing 64.5mg, or 161% of the daily target for Australian adults, helping to keep your immune system strong throughout the colder seasons.

For more great recipes, head to www.custardapple.com.au and www.facebook.com/custardapplesaustralia

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

CLASSIFIEDS

GDL NATURE PLAY SPACES

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We use our concept plans, work closely with you and gain inspiration from the children’s ideas to bring the best possible solutions to your space and budget.

Do you have the skills to save your child's life?

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Alternatively, join one of many public workshops across Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast.

0405 701 684

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FAMILY DISPUTE RESOLUTION Behavioural Specialist and Early Childhood Educator W: www.kasiapalko.com.au P: 0422 993 609 FB: @KasiaPalkoBehaviouralSpecialist

Through her creative observational techniques, Kasia develops behavioural management systems to help children interact with their environment, families and peers.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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@respectful_resolutions Brisbane | Sunshine Coast | Gold Coast M AY / J U N E 2021

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REVIEWS

BOOKS

WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU?

By James Catchpole, illustrated by Karen George

Imagine you were asked the same question again and again throughout your life. This is the experience of one-legged Joe, a child who just wants to have fun and play Pirates. Constantly seen first for his disability, Joe is fed up of only ever being asked about his leg.

Finally the children realise that Joe is playing a rather good game, one that they can join in with if they can stop fixating on his missing leg.

For ages 5+. $24.99

APPS

RU PAUL (LITTLE PEOPLE, BIG DREAMS)

By Remi Lai

Discover the life of RuPaul, the shape-shifter, performer and supermodel. Little People, Big Dreams is a bestselling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them have achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.

For ages 3-7. $19.99

From Brisbane-based writer and illustrator Remy Lai, Pawcasso is a delightful graphic novel starring Jo, an introverted girl who meets an adorable dog Pawcasso.

Jo doesn’t have any friends, but Pawcasso brings her out into the world on an epic, disasterous scale, introducing her to kids just like her. A heartwarming and hilarious story about the unexpected friendship that forms between the loneliest girl in class and the coolest canine in town. For ages 8-12. $16.99

By Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara, illustrated by Wednesday Holmes

PAWCASSO

BUSY SHAPES 2 Free Expanding on the exploratory playground of Busy Shapes, Busy Shapes 2 is a stunning 3D puzzle game designed for kids 4-8. With 100+ 3D levels that teach kids about visual perspectives, coordination, agility and critical thinking, it’s sure to dazzle their senses. Based on Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development, Busy Shapes isn’t about learning the names of the shapes; instead, it’s about developing an awareness of how objects relate to each other and how they can impact other objects and the world around them.

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M AY / J U N E 2021

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

At its heart, learning to swim is about fun. We learn as children so we can spend a lifetime safely and confidently enjoying all that water has to offer.

Book your FREE introductory lesson today!* *T&Cs apply

kingswim.com.au

SMALLER COMMUNITIES STRONGER CONNECTIONS Supporting students as they transition through the adoloscent years with a designated learning and wellbeing framework. See the exciting new Middle Learning Community (Years 5-8) on a personalised tour or enquire about enrolments for 2022 and 2023.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.HILLCREST.QLD.EDU.AU/MLC HILLCREST CHRISTIAN COLLEGE I 21 BRIDGMAN DRIVE, REEDY CREEK I WWW.HILLCREST.QLD.EDU.AU