Kids in the City Magazine - Brisbane - Issue 03

kidsinthecity ISSUE 02 | October/November 2013 | BRISBANE

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STARTING PREP: DO AGE AND MATURITY MATTER?

BEST-FOR-US BREAD GENDER AND EDUCATION

ATTACHMENT PARENTING IMPORTANCE OF GRANDPARENTS WHAT'S ON CALENDAR LOTS MORE!

URE FEAT Y STOR www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

THE CHRONIC CONDITIONS THAT SET CHILDREN APART OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 – Kids in the City

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Kids in the City – OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013

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Contents OCTOBERNovember2013

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From the Editor The Social Gathering It's All About You WHAT'S NEWS CHECK THIS OUT: New, fun and funky things FEATURE: Invisible differences:

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THE ‘P’ FILES: Bridging generations: Grandparents CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Find out what’s happening in the

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The chronic conditions that set children apart

City during October and November 20 EDUCATION: Starting Prep: Do age and maturity matter?

28 EDUCATION: Gender and education

www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

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BABIES IN THE CITY : A detached look at attachment parenting PARENTVILLE: Slumber Wars A CONVERSATION WITH: Frances Whiting IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 – Kids in the City

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T hesocialgathering Which is your favourite park and why?

Reader Gill: LOVE LOVE LOVE the Kidspace at 7th Brigade Park. There is so much to do from a bike trail to a fairy tower and rocket control tower.

Welcome to kidsinthecity

I don’t think I ever truly realised how much having children would change my perspective on life. The things that I now do on a regular basis, words that come out of my mouth (or even thoughts that cross my mind), I would have promised you pre-kids would never have occurred. I am forever changed and funnily enough will be forever grateful for that.

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Sprin

in g out Kids t. en Zoe handin Ruby and ags at our launch ev the City m

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How do you know when your child is ready for school? This is a question that I have discussed with friends, we have pondered in the office and of course is one that has become even more relevant with the changes to the kindergarten program throughout Queensland. In this edition we explore what your options are and whether age or maturity really matter when it comes to starting school, as well as challenging the gender stereotypes in the classroom.

Have you missed an issue of Kids in the City magazine? All of our articles are online and you can comment and discuss the topics on our website or Facebook page. We add topical news stories regularly as well as blogs, new articles and product, app and book reviews. Please feel free to contact me via Facebook.com/ kidsinthecitymagazine, our website or email. And of course, keep an eye out for the stories, reviews, news and competitions that are added almost daily to our website!

Jackie Goldston Editor

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If you send someone a snarky tweet, does that make you an angry bird? @AvramOhm

Why am I offering you this insight?

Our feature article this month looks at chronic conditions that are invisible to the eye. This was a particularly important topic for me, as my daughter has type 1 diabetes and we have shared our experience with you in the article. There were so many other conditions and illnesses that we wanted to cover and would love to hear and share your stories and experiences too.

Our spring edition also explores attachment parenting, gives you the lowdown on what to look for in breads and discusses the importance of Grandparents.

deas food i

Reader Jayne: New Farm Park is one of our favourites. Places to kick a ball, play on equipment and have a family BBQ!

ISSUE 02 | October/November 2013 | BRISBANE

FREE

STARTING PREP: DO AGE AND MATURITY MATTER?

BEST-FOR-US BREAD GENDER AND EDUCATION

ATTACHMENT PARENTING IMPORTANCE OF GRANDPARENTS WHAT'S ON CALENDAR LOTS MORE!

RE FEATU STORY www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

THE CHRONIC CONDITIONS THAT SET CHILDREN APART AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 – Kids in the City

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fun!

We have thousands of dollars of prizes every month!

Simply visit our website and enter for your chance to WIN!!

While you are online, search for activities on our What’s On Events page, including everything from playgroups and regular classes to ticketed and special events for families. Don’t forget to sign up for the KITC weekly What’s On newsletter to never miss an event. Your kids will never complain of being bored again!

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS FOR ISSUE 02:

kidsinthecity

Spring

Lisa Williment, Belinda Hopper, Sandra Smith, Maxine Arthur Luke Goldston, Aleney de Winter COVER:

Photography by Jennifer Oliphant Photography. Special thankyou to Mia. Flower headpiece by Twig and Grace, Cooroy (07) 5442 5440. Find Twig and Grace on Instagram & Facebook.

Kids in the City magazine is printed with vegetable/soy based inks on paper supplied using pulp sourced from sustainable forests and manufactured to environmentally accredited systems.

Kids in the City encourages recycling.

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

PUBLISHED BY: THINGS 4 KIDS PTY LTD. PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562 PHONE: 1300 430 320 FAX: 07 5471 2372 WEB: www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au ABN: 86 473 357 391. All editorial and advertising in Kids in the City is 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 in the City is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Feedback/comments/suggestions?

Send to: editorial@kidsinthecitymagazine. com.au. We aim to reply to all correspondence but don’t guarantee to do so. Letters to the editor may be edited for length or clarity.

PUBLISHER: Toni Eggleston ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Simone Bell EDITOR: Jackie Goldston ADVERTISING: For advertising enquiries please phone Joanne 1300 430 320 or email: advertising@kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au Production Department: production@ kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au ADMINISTRATION: Kellie Kruger admin@kidsonthecoast.com.au PRINTING BY: Print Works PHONE: 07 3865 4433 DISTRIBUTION: Kids in the City (Brisbane edition) is a free publication circulating over 20,000 copies from Caloundra to Noosa and through the hinterland. Separate edition cover Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast. For distribution enquiries please phone: 1300 430 320 or email: admin@kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGN: Kate Jones, Helen Chapman & Alana Falk

Kids in the City – OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013

www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

some

of

- meettheteam TONI EGGLESTON PUBLISHER/OWNER

As a young mum back in 2001, new to the Sunshine Coast, Toni discovered that there was a lack of information for parents to find things to do, places to go and general parenting resources. So being the ‘ideas lady’ she is, she figured why not start a magazine – how hard could it possibly be?!?

Harder than she ever imagined! Many a Kids on the Coast magazine was born from the hall way of Toni’s then half finished home. 3am finish times, magazine layouts on the kitchen table, 20,000 magazines hand delivered from the back of her little corolla (with her Dads help) with the reward of seeing her ‘baby’ in print.

Now 50 issues later, Kids on the Coast has its own home in Peregian Beach, a fantastic, creative team behind it, and a loyal following of advertisers and readers. As for Toni – with a newborn baby, she will still often email at midnight, she is still ‘the ideas lady’, and we are very happy to say – has doors on her house!

I wouldn’t leave home without: My phone!

The best advice I’ve been given: It’s not really advice but more an inspiration. You can’t die wondering! It’s been the motivator behind many difficult decisions I’ve made and a great justification when things don’t go as planned.

The funniest thing my child has said: When celebrating New Year’s Eve my daughter asked what I was drinking (because it’s about the only time I drink). “Champagne”, I responded. She had a look of horror and then asked if I was drinking the conditioner as well. This was 10 years ago now and still makes me cry with laughter every time I tell this story.

When I grew up I wanted to be: A vet or an air hostess, although I have no idea how this was ever going to be a reality with a major fear of flying My favourite saying is: This is one for my daughter and anyone out there that has a daughter who suffers the reality of pre-teen school yard politics. “Be who you are and say what you feel, because that those that matter don’t mind and those that mind don’t matter.” Thank you Dr Seuss!

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Stay up to date with your local community news. If you have any unique news that you’d like to share, please contact our editor at editorial@kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Did you know Virginia Woolf wrote all her books standing up?

DONALD DUCK

comics were once banned in Finland because Donald does not wear pants.

BEFORE

1960's

DID YOU KNOW?

Whatsnews

Before the 1960s, men with long hair were not allowed to enter Disneyland.

Community

NEWS

Tom Sawyer was the first novel written on a typewriter.

PARENTING, EATING AND ACTIVITY FOR CHILD HEALTH:

PEACH

Parents are about to be taught how to fight the food war in a new, free, ground-breaking program rolling out this month across Queensland. QUT has started offering families places in a $5 million program called PEACH (Parenting, Eating and Activity for Child Health). It will be available to families with a child 5-11 years who is above a healthy weight for their age, and will be the largest obesity intervention program to date in Queensland.

The PEACH program is funded by Queensland Health under the National Partnership Agreement on Preventive Health - Healthy Children. PEACH will initially be offered to 75 families in Brisbane, Caboolture, Logan and Rockhampton, followed by a state-wide roll out to a further 1325 families from 2014. Families will attend 10 sessions over six months, with additional support in the form of three phone calls. The sessions, run by trained facilitators, see parents learn and problem solve in a group environment about nutrition and activity while their children enjoy active play.

For more information visit: www.peachqld.com.au

CANCER COUNCIL QUEENSLAND HOSTS

GLOBAL SKIN CANCER CONFERENCE Cancer experts from around the world will gather in Brisbane this November at the first-ever global skin cancer conference hosted by Cancer Council Queensland. Global Controversies and Advances in Skin Cancer will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from November 21 to 24, during National Skin Cancer Action Week.

The conference will provide a forum for international, cutting-edge debate across prevention, diagnosis, treatment, management and survivorship for all types of skin cancer.

Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson

Katie Clift said hosting the global conference was a huge win for Brisbane. “Queensland has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world,” Ms Clift said. “It’s fitting that Brisbane, a world leader in skin cancer prevention, early detection and research, would host a global conference of this scale.

Cancer Council Queensland will also host a free consumer forum on Sunday 24 November, inviting members of the public to hear the latest in skin cancer research, prevention, treatment and support. Visit www.gc-sc.org.au for more information.

THE GARAGE SALE TRAIL Whether you’re looking for some retro bargains, want to de-clutter, or just to get to know the neighbours, Garage Sale Trail is for you. Four years after starting in Bondi Beach, Garage Sale Trail is now a national Australian event.

Garage Sale Trail organises communities around Australia to hold Garage Sales on the same day, this year Saturday October 26th.

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Kids in the City – OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013

NATIONAL ROAD TRIP TO PROMOTE CHILD SAFETY Parents of abducted and murdered school boy Daniel Morcombe are taking child safety messages to all Australia and promoting Day for Daniel. Bruce and Denise Morcombe embarked upon a ‘66’ day National Tour in late August, to promote and encourage people to take action, by participating in child safety educational activities on Day for Daniel on October 25th.

Driving 17,000 kilometres through every State in Australia over 66 days, does not faze Bruce and Denise Morcombe in their bid to educate kids and empower communities across the country.

Day for Daniel is a National Day of Action that has grown to include over one thousand schools and more than a million Australians annually, conducting education and awareness activities in their own communities. For more information visit www.dayfordaniel.com.au

RAISING AWARENESS October is Down syndrome awareness month.

Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality. Around 1 in 800 children are born with DS. The DS community in Brisbane is a strong one, knitted together by a Facebook page where families network, compare notes and support each other. The Down syndrome Association of Queensland (DSAQ) supports families in Brisbane by providing music therapy, dancing and swimming activities every week. Pictured are three 4 year olds, Malachi, Riley and Sarah, who love to hang out together every week with their music therapist Hamish.

Sarah’s Mum comments, “Sarah just loves coming to music therapy and socialising with the other kids every week. The repetition of doing an activity on a weekly basis is what makes music therapy so valuable. It’s wonderful that the DSAQ fund this activity for the kids. They provide excellent support to families who are struggling to find their way with a child with a disability”.

You can find out more about DS and the DSAQ at www.dsaq.org.au

They are into sustainability, by redistributing great stuff and saving it from landfill. So far Garage Sale has redistributed one million items from potential landfill, helped raise $3 million in local fundraising, and helped 800,000 people to meet their neighbours in Australia. For more information visit www.garagesaletrail.com.au

Malachi, Riley and Sarah enjoy music therapy every week, funded by the Down syndrome Association of Queensland. www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

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The chair easily unfolds, locks into place and folds back up in seconds with no attachments or assembly required, making it ideal for travel, camping, picnics, grandma's house. RRP $99.95 www.theportablehighchair.com.au 3. MAGNETIC ROCKET PUZZLE The Janod Magnetic Rocket is a cleverly designed wooden toy that is also a simple puzzle.

Comes apart into 5 magnetic pieces and click back together perfectly.

RRP$32.00 from Newton’s Apple Puzzles, Games and Toys at www.newtonsapplepuzzles.com 4. RIDE THIS! The Kiddimoto bikes are based on real big engine sports motorbikes. This stylish wooden balance bike includes the classic design features found on the real thing including fairings, underseat exhaust pipes, styled tanks and tails and a sculptured rear swinging arm. RRP from$180 www.kiddimoto.com.au 5. MAKE YOUR OWN DOLL: For something a little different, why not make your own doll? These super cute doll kits are great for creative kids and adults alike. From $30 www.evelynlily.com.au or www.facebook.com/PommieDesigns 6. LITTLE IMPOSTERS: Super cute, fun, easy to wear costumes. One size fits 2 yrs to slim adult! Adjustable braces and velcro opening at side.

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 – Kids in the City

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THE CHRONIC CONDITIONS THAT SET CHILDREN APART WHEN CHILDREN HAVE A CHRONIC CONDITION THAT’S LARGELY HIDDEN, IT’S AN INVISIBLE DIFFERENCE THAT SETS THEM APART FROM THEIR PEERS.

By Sandra Smith

T

hese chronic conditions can disrupt the normal growth and development processes of children, and affect their social and emotional development. There may be a fear of stigma, frequent school absences and an inability to participate in age-appropriate activities.

Invisible chronic conditions include autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, asthma, dyspraxia, diabetes, dyslexia and epilepsy. There may be no obvious physical signs of the condition, but the symptoms can be limiting and distressing. These children need encouragement, support and advocacy, so that they can live as normal a life as possible.

GETTING A DIAGNOSIS Coast Paediatrics specialist paediatrician Dr Anthony Morosini says that when there is early intervention and access to appropriate services, the hidden disability or chronic disease can be

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Kids in the City – OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013

well-managed and the long-term outcomes are improved. With an early diagnosis and treatment, children are more able to achieve to their best, or have programs in place so that they can catch up.

The first port of call for parents is the community child health clinic, which provides free parenting advice and support for Queensland families of children aged 0–12. The Raising Children’s Network (www.raisingchildren.net.au) also has reliable information about child development, from newborns through to early teens. However, if there are concerns, visit a GP for a medical diagnosis or a referral to more specialised health care.

Every child grows at his or her own pace and there’s a “range of normal,” explains Dr Morosini.

Some children who develop more slowly will catch up with time; other children may have an underlying problem that causes delayed development.

Dr Morosini advises that parents or teachers

should not attempt to make a diagnosis, as that is the role of the medical practitioner or psychologist. He says teachers can usually identify which children in their classroom are struggling, and they would normally discuss their concerns with the parents.

“If it’s felt by the teachers, the parents or people within the schooling system that it is more than the usual or that there are significant issues or concerns, that’s when they would normally be referred on to doctors, psychologists, therapists,” he says.

Behaviour can have a range of causes, including possible ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or anxiety. Dr Morosini says if children are having ongoing difficulty despite normal behaviour management strategies, then it’s worthwhile seeking further advice.

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER Autism is an invisible difference because there are no outward physical characteristics, however, children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) typically have difficulties with communication, problem-solving and social relationships. Autistic disorder, Asperger’s disorder and Pervasive www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Development Disorder all come under the umbrella of ASD. Coast mum Nicole* says it wasn’t easy to pinpoint what was wrong with her son, Connor, at first, but she was relieved when he was diagnosed with Asperger’s disorder at the age of five. The diagnosis was made through a series of questionnaires and a health care plan was subsequently put in place.

“He was our first child and we thought we were doing something wrong. Connor couldn't interact or play with other children; nine times out of ten he would hurt the other child,” she says. “ASD is a very broad spectrum and it can be difficult to separate typical behaviour of young children and ASD traits. We all have quirky behaviours.”

COPING AS A FAMILY Growing up with a hidden lifelong condition can be a huge challenge for both the children and their families. Nicole says everything is much more complicated, and even getting ready to go somewhere is stressful.

“If he doesn’t have the right clothes or shoes at the ready, it can throw a huge spanner in the works,” she says. “He will have a meltdown and there is a domino effect on the rest of the family. Sometimes it’s not even worth going. I am sure we have stopped getting invited to things because of this.”

Connor’s meltdowns are confronting for his younger brother and sister, and Nicole says his behaviour towards his two siblings can be “unrelenting.”

“If the other two are busy with an activity, he almost goes out of his way to disrupt or upset them, simply because he might just want to join in or he might be jealous that he can’t seem to be able to join in,” she says.

Dr Morosini explains that a child with a hidden disability or chronic illness can be a “significant burden” for the family. That child may require a lot of support and have high needs, which impacts on the family as a whole.

“If the child with that medical, chronic disease has lots of appointments, parents are involved with dowww.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Nothing fazes him; he walks to the beat of his own drum. He can be amazing and infuriating. ing lots of therapy, or giving medication, then sometimes other siblings can feel left out,” he says. “It’s important for the parents to become aware of that and to try and spend quality time with the other children.”

Nicole says she and her husband often feel stressed, but the family sticks together and tries to stay strong. Their outlets are through sports, including surf lifesaving, running and swimming. She advises other parents not to take the stress out on each other, but if they do, to acknowledge that.

“Patience, patience and more patience,” she says. “Ask for help from friends and family, and don’t worry about being judged. If they could walk a mile in our shoes!”

In 2009, over 42,000 Australian children aged 0-14 had been diagnosed with autism, according to the Raising Children’s Network. Despite the prevalence of ASD, there is often misunderstanding in the wider community, as people assume a child’s behaviour is caused by poor parenting or other factors. Nicole has become accustomed to dealing with this public perception that her son is out of control and badly behaved.

“I have been on the brunt of many ‘looks’ and have been abused more than once by ignorant people.

I have toughened up and really don’t care anymore about funny looks or frowning bystanders,” Nicole says.

“The other thing that I guess I find frustrating is the opposite—wellmeaning people that think they may be able to do a better job and have all sorts of suggestions for me, from changing toothpastes to diet.”

Dr Morosini advises misconcep-

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Specialist support focussing on: Communication Development Attention and transitioning Behaviour School readiness Support provided in-clinic or at home.

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 – Kids in the City

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Feature

tions about certain chronic conditions can be overcome by education of the wider public, through support groups, medical services, and Queensland Health.

WALKING TO A DIFFERENT DRUM Most children with autism who attend school have difficulty with communication, learning and fitting in socially, so they often need a high level of support. Nicole says 11-year-old Connor is well-supported at school, however, he is “the different one.”

“Kids can be cruel. He can also be difficult.

Connor is really not afraid of authority or anything, really. This can be frustrating, but I guess it can be a positive thing as well,” she says. “Nothing fazes him; he walks to the beat of his own drum. He can be amazing and infuriating.”

Unfortunately, Connor was removed from his last therapy group because he put other children at risk. Nicole would like to have access to respite care, but she says this is not currently available on the Coast, however, Connor’s grandmother helps out, providing an “oasis” for him and giving the family much-needed breaks.

Asperger’s disorder is a lifelong condition and Nicole worries about Connor’s future, which is uncertain. She hopes he will be able to have a job, and perhaps even attend university and get a degree. He has the intelligence to do so, but Nicole says it will be a long hard slog for him.

“We are waiting for him to find his passion; other than computer games, nothing much else interests him,” she says.

TYPE 1 DIABETES Another hidden illness affecting thousands of

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Kids in the City – OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013

Australian children is type 1 diabetes, a chronic condition that is caused by the immune system mistakenly turning on itself, destroying beta cells within the pancreas and removing the body's ability to produce insulin. Insulin allows the body to process sugar to create energy, without insulin, the body literally starves as it cannot process food.

Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong autoimmune disease that usually arises in childhood and requires daily insulin therapy for survival. It is unable to be prevented and there is no cure. In 2008, there were an estimated 5,700 children aged 0-14 years with Type 1 diabetes in Australia, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).

Type 2 diabetes usually occurs in people aged over 40, however, the AIHW reports that it is increasing in childhood due to higher levels of obesity and physical inactivity. This form of diabetes can often be managed with diet and lifestyle changes, though insulin is sometimes required.

Coast mum Jackie says her daughter, Freya, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she became acutely ill at the age of 11 months. Freya was rushed to hospital with symptoms of extreme drowsiness and rapid breathing. After an anxious wait in the emergency room, Freya was finally diagnosed with juvenile (type 1) diabetes.

“I remember sitting there on the chair in emergency promising Freya that I would do everything to keep her safe,” Jackie says. “I didn’t care that she had diabetes; I just wanted her to live.”

The next few hours were critical for Freya, as she was going into a diabetic coma. She had diabetic ketone acidosis continued on next page...

Freya wit h big brot her Decla acticities. n enjoys

everyday

I remember sitting there on the chair in emergency promising Freya that I would do everything to keep her safe. I didn’t care that she had diabetes; I just wanted her to live www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 – Kids in the City

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Feature (DKA), a life-threatening condition for anyone with diabetes.

“At that point it was touch and go,” Jackie remembers. “The head of the emergency department was very kind, but explained that it was now a waiting game as they slowly hydrated her tiny body with fluid and introduced small amounts of insulin to remove the ketones from her blood and start to reduce her blood glucose level.”

Later that afternoon, Freya was transferred by ambulance to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Brisbane and it wasn’t until around 3am that the ICU team were confident that Freya would pull through.

After this initial diagnosis, the next nine days were a steep learning curve as Jackie and her husband learnt how to do the three-hourly blood tests and give her the required five needles a day, as well as learning how to count carbohydrates and calculate an approximate glycaemic index in foods.

“It took a few months of daily and then weekly phone calls with our diabetes team at the Royal Children’s Hospital for us to be confident enough to start making our own decisions with how much insulin she required at each meal,” Jackie explains.

Now there are three-monthly checkups at the Royal Children’s Hospital, where the family is offered a range of medical and support services. Of course there are the tough days for Jackie, especially knowing that there is no cure, but she takes one day at a time.

Type 1 diabetes can be controlled with careful management, however, Jackie has to be vigilant due to the unpredictable and potentially life-threatening nature of the disease. When she is out and about, she tests Freya in plain sight of anyone who looks their way.

“If Freya tells me she is feeling low, which can become very dangerous, very quickly, we will stop wherever we are to test,” she says. “It may be in the middle of the supermarket or in a queue for the movies. Sometimes people ask what we are doing and they are almost always polite. I am very happy to explain what we are doing and why.”

THE COST OF CHRONIC ILLNESS Mothers of children with Type 1 diabetes consistently report lost wages as a result of time spent caring for their child, according to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

Jackie declined a job offer the day after Freya was diagnosed, as the specialist recommended that she stay at home with her daughter for as long as possible. As well as having to cope with a reduced income, Jackie says there are huge out-ofpocket expenses each year for simple things like the lancets for the three-hourly blood tests, which are not subsidised by the government.

As a result, Jackie’s husband decided to take

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Kids in the City – OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013

They told us that our child should never be denied opportunities simply because of her illness and we’re eternally grateful for that Jackie and Freya

a fly in, fly out role. This has brought a stable income for the family, but with her husband away for two weeks out of four, Jackie has the added burden of doing all the overnight testing on her own.

“Unfortunately I have become very attached to strong, espresso coffee and have way too many every day,” she says.

BECOMING AN ADVOCATE Type 1, which affects 10%–15% of people with diabetes, is often confused with Type 2, the most common form of diabetes in Australia. Jackie remembers being frustrated by this when Freya was first diagnosed, but she now sees the interaction with others as an opportunity to educate them about Type 1 diabetes, which is a genetic disease.

“We do occasionally have to counter the perception that Freya’s illness is somehow our fault because we gave her too many lollies or fed her a poor diet,” she says. “It probably bothered us a lot more in the beginning than it does now, to be honest. Some people will always be quick to judge.”

A strong believer in being positive and trying to make the best of any situation, Jackie has thrown herself into fundraising for additional research to find a cure. She is also very active with charity organisations that work to raise awareness of the disease, and is involved with an online support group.

Type 1 diabetes is an invisible illness to a large degree, so most people who meet Freya

don’t realise she has a chronic condition. She looks just like any other child, but the difference is that she requires three-hourly blood tests and at least five insulin injections a day just to stay alive.

Jackie tries to make life as normal as possible for Freya, who now attends child care for three days a week and will start Prep next year. The child care centre staff have gone out of their way to learn how to do blood tests and insulin injections, she says.

“They told us that our child should never be denied opportunities simply because of her illness and we’re eternally grateful for that,” she says.

Jackie is fortunate to have ongoing support from her husband, her mother and trusted friends. She says some of her closest friends are starting to learn about diabetes, so they can help her. As the primary carer, she does, however, make the big decisions about her daughter’s care.

After the initial life-changing acute illness and diagnosis, life has settled down for Jackie and her family. Although they have to deal with the financial costs and extra care needed to manage Freya’s diabetes, Jackie believes the family is coping well. Freya is now a happy, healthy, active four-year-old living a very normal life.

“Type 1 diabetes is hard work for the parents and the child; however there is no reason that your child can’t do most things that they want to do with a little more planning,” Jackie says. www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 – Kids in the City

13

T he P Files

G

randparents can play many important roles in a child’s life; from link to ancestors, confidant, hero, historian, spiritual guide, teacher or even student. These roles will grow and change as your child grows. Surprisingly there is little data available on the proportion of children who have contact with their grandparents and on how often children see their grandparents.

The Australian Institute of Family Studies believes the quality of the relationship between children and their grandparents can have an impact upon the wellbeing of the grandparent as well as on the developmental outcomes for the child.

Grandparents can, for example, offer children a broader range of knowledge, emotions and experience than they did as parents or may provide a safe place for a child to turn in times of stress should they feel they cannot approach their parents.

Bridging generations: Grandparents

By Jackie Goldston

14

Kids in the City – OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013

POSITIVE EXPERIENCES Coast mum Rebecca has two lively girls, the youngest seven and the eldest just about to enter into her teenage years. She shares, “I come from a close family and love keeping in contact with my parents on a weekly basis. I love it that they always make an effort to call and chat with my girls to maintain a healthy relationship regardless of the distance.”

She is someone who has had great grandparent experiences growing up. As she explains, “I was blessed to have two awesome Grandparents whom I was and am very close to. My grandmother had spunk, class and an opinion she just had to share. I was a shy child and she taught me to be proud and be heard. She also taught me to have fun and not care too much what others thought of you.

My Pop always had time for me and gave me his full attention. He taught me to not be afraid to ask for what I wanted in life. He would let me talk and talk, pick me flowers from the garden and treat me like I was special. I am very lucky to still share special time with my Pop and my own girls now. He treats them like princesses too.”

Rebecca’s mum, Janine lives interstate, so doesn’t see her grandchildren all that often. “We speak weekly and try to chat with the grandkids over the phone which is sometime successful and other times not so great,” she explains, however that doesn’t mean she doesn’t feel that she isn’t important in their lives. “It’s really important that we are a part or our continued on next page... www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

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CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG FAMILY PASS QPAC and Kids in the City are giving one lucky person the chance to win a family pass* (x4 tickets) to see CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG at QPAC on Tuesday 19 November, 6.30pm. Don’t miss out on seeing the most Fantasmagorical musical! *tickets are not refundable and are unable to be exchanged for another date or be redeemed for cash or credit

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ABRACADABRA! Join in the magic with Mickey Mouse and some of your favourite Disney friends for a mystifying, energetic and hilarious magic show filled with spectacular illusions when Disney Live! presents Mickey’s Magic Show tours Australia these coming summer school holidays. Opening in Perth on December 27, the magic will continue when the tour visits the Gold Coast, Melbourne, Wollongong and Adelaide through to January 19.

In a captivating combination, Master Magician Mickey Mouse and the always-dazzling Minnie Mouse join forces with professional illusionist Zach Williams for a magical production on stage.

Disney Live! presents Mickey’s Magic Show features grand illusions and favorite Disney characters, including Donald Duck and Goofy; Cinderella and her Fairy Godmother; Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter; and beloved Disney princesses Jasmine, Belle and Snow White.

From the breathtaking levitation of Minnie and Jasmine to the transformation of Cinder-

ella’s rags into riches in a split second, Disney Live! presents Mickey’s Magic Show gives families a whole new way to experience Disney magic. Adults and children alike will delight in this stunning spectacle that will keep them in awe from the opening act to curtain call. For further show information visit www.disneylive.com.au We have ONE major prize to give away including a family pass with a meet and greet PLUS 5 runner up family passes for the Gold Coast production on the 4th January! Head to our website to enter now!

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 – Kids in the City

15

T he P Files

Grandparents are custodians of the values, stories and histories of our families and our communities Grand parent s Day is on Octob er 27.

grandchildren’s lives. As it gives balance to the family relationship.” Rebecca’s kids agree, sharing stories of the many things they have learned from their grandparents, as 7 year old Tori explains, “My Nanny and Poppy have taught me to always be polite at the dinner table. My nanny taught me that you do not need a packet to make a cake. Poppy taught me how to ride my bike without training wheels. I help my nanny in the garden!”

FAMILY BONDS AND GROWTH Anne McLeish, Director of Grandparents Australia agrees that grandparents can play an important role in encouraging connections and bonds in families, “We are always encouraging more family unity, whether it is the grandparents being involved or simply spending time together. Any opportunity you can take to bind families together and to give children a sense of belonging to a family unit is important.

“As far as sharing skills and understanding, I think that Grandparents have much to offer their grandchildren. I think that Grandparents understanding of relationship building and the sort of wisdom and the sense of history they bring about their family is really important. They are like the custodians of family history. Sharing these stories and skills are really important ones that kids don’t see in close quarters anymore. Just the ability to sit down and talk, over a cup of tea and have a quiet moment, talk about family stories is a lost art.”

16

Kids in the City – OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013

Grandmother Janine has seen a change in her relationships with her kids since they became parents and she a grandparent, “We all became closer, as our kids gained a better perspective of the difficulties of being a parent and better understood the decisions we made whilst raising them… We have loved being able to play with all these gorgeous babies and then give them back to their parents. You get a better appreciation for the time you have with your grandchildren as you didn’t have the quality time with your own due to work etc.”

There is extensive research to support that developing a relationship with older generations has a positive impact on the development of children – where the relationship is healthy and embraced. In fact, the Growing Up in Australia Study found that the relationships children have with significant adults, including their grandparents, are the foundation of their development.

OTHER OPTIONS So what do you do when, for whatever reason, there is no connection available for your children?

In 2012, Cate Kloos launched Find-A-Grandparent, an online service that matches Australian families in need with "surrogate grandparents" – as she herself was in need of the service for her two children. The website is still growing and she cannot believe the demand. "We have heaps of families registered but we could have heaps more if there were more grandparents to go

around," she said.

Anne from Grandparents Australia also recommends reaching out to your extended family. Older aunts or uncles who can bridge some of the generation gap for young children. She cannot stress enough the importance of developing an understanding between the older and younger generations. “It is crucial that we do more to get the older generations and younger generations together. There is a bit of a disconnection now.

Because families don’t necessarily live close together now, many young people don’t have much experience of dealing with older people and that is a problem.

“We have had people report to us, from smaller communities, that there is a breakdown, sort of a barrier, between older people and younger people. And because Australia’s population is aging, there are going to be a lot of older people in our community and we really need younger people to be able to connect with them in their working lives.”

So if you are lucky enough to have grandparents involved in your children’s lives, think about the advice from the organisers of Grandparents Day, “Grandparents are custodians of the values, stories and histories of our families and our communities. Invest in the memory bank of your grandparents… Share memories and family traditions and more importantly – create new ones by spending the day with your grandparents!” www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

thur 21st Nov

Redcliffe Cultural Centre – 10AM & 12.30PM Ph 3283 0407 | www.redcliffeculturalcentre.com.au

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Gardens Theatre, QUT, Brisbane Fri – 4.30PM Sat – 10AM & 12.30PM Ph 3138 4455 | www.gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 – Kids in the City

17

CALENDAR October Until October 7

BUILD IT!

Where: The Workshops Rail Museum When: 9:30am - 5pm daily Experience the history of The Workshops by becoming an honorary apprentice!

Cost: Adult $20, Child $11.50, Family (2 Adults, up to four children) $59 Details: www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au

Brisbane

A calendar of regular weekly events is available online. For details of playgroups, library activities, weekly sporting events, craft classes, Australian Breastfeeding Association meeting times and much more, visit www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

8 October

MUM'S FIT CAMP

4 October

Where: Pegg's Park, Koala Road (near Kine St), Moorooka When: 9:30 – 10:30am This is a fun, challenging and action packed session and a great way to de- stress, recharge and keep fit and healthy. You are welcome to bring your baby along in a stroller.

Details: Free, for more information contact Barefoot Fitness 0420 551 033.

HAPPY TAILS DAY Organisation: RSPCA If you have a pet, or just love animals, the RSPCA invites you to donate money or buy their merchandise to keep them fighting for animal rights.

Details: www.rspca.org.au/happy-tails-day

13 October

12 October

DORA’S BALLET ADVENTURE - LIVE STAGE SHOW

MINI ME MOVERS AND SHAKERS Where: Nixon Park, Oxley Road, Oxley When: 10am – 12pm Make a giant puppet that is a little version of you and then get active and healthy by using your body to bring it to life through physical activity!

Details: Ages 8+, Cost $5, bookings required visit www.bazilgrumble.com.au

Where: Carindale Recreation Reserve, Brisbane When: 3:45pm The world’s most beloved Latina heroine trades in her sneakers for ballet slippers in Dora the Explorer’s Dora’s Ballet Adventure!

Cost: See website Details: http://parents.nickjr.com.au

13 October

RECREATIONAL TREE CLIMBING Where: Northey Street City Farm, Northey Street, Windsor When: 9am – 12pm Have fun climbing trees using modern rope and harness techniques. Closed in shoes eg. sports shoes or hiking boots, pants or shorts (ladies no skirts) Details: Ages 8+, bookings required ph. 0405 756 456 or visit treeclimbers.com.au

18 October

14, 21, 28 October

SPORTS FOR LITTLE KIDS Where: Elizabeth Bruce Playground, Bamboo Street, Inala When: 3:30 – 4:30pm Build confidence in sport for 3-5 year olds through learning basic physical skills (throw, catch etc) while improving their social skills.

Bookings are not required.

Details: For more information contact Coolsports 3102 5438/0412 004 603

Organisation: Canteen Help young people living with cancer by buying and wearing Canteen bandannas.

Details: www.canteen.org.au

18 October

LOUD SHIRT DAY Organisation: Oral Language Centre for Deaf Children Loud Shirt Day is the day you wear something really, really loud to help give deaf children the gift of sound.

Details: loudshirtday.com.au

19 - 27 October

CHILDREN'S WEEK Children's Week celebrates the right of children to enjoy childhood. It is also a time for children to demonstrate their talents, skills and abilities. www.napcan.org.au

SPORTS FOR LITTLE KIDS Where: Booker Place Park, Bellbowrie When: 3:30 – 4:30pm Build confidence in sport for 3-5 year olds through learning basic physical skills (throw, catch etc) while improving their social skills.

Bookings are not required.

Details: For more information contact Coolsports 3102 5438/0412 004 603

Where: Northey Street City Farm, Northey Street, Windsor When: 10am – 1pm Come and join in on free gardening and cooking activities at this long-established community garden. All ages.

Details: For more information phone 3857 8775

13 October

GREEN HEART FAIR Where: Carindale Recreation Reserve, Cadogan and Bedivere Streets When: 8:55am – 2pm Brisbane’s biggest free community event, the Green Heart Fair is all about green living in a fun, family-friendly environment. Come along and check out the sustainability displays, entertainment, kids' activities and many market stalls.

Details: www.citysmart.com.au/greenheartfair

20 October

NATIONAL BANDANA DAY

22, 29 October & 5, 12, 19, 26 November

9, 16, 23, 30 October

PLANTING FOR PIZZAS

26 & 27 October

QLD MODEL RAILWAY SHOW Where: The Workshops Rail Museum When: 9:30am - 5pm daily See real life scenes in small intricate detail, get busy in the Construction or Creation Station and take a ride on a miniature live steam train (charges apply).

Cost: Museum entry Details: W: www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au P: 3432 5100

CHILDREN'S WEEK FINALE CONCERT Where: Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mt Coot-tha When: from 12:15pm Join Smartie Pants the Clown for a conga line as Brisbane Municipal Concert Band entertain in a bright and lively interactive children’s concert.

Details: Free Bands in parks, www.brisbane.qld.gov.au

27 October & 24 November

ENOGGERA RESERVOIR WALK

Where: Walkabout Creek, The Gap (60 Mt Nebo Road) When: 9:30am (~2hrs) Join a volunteer to discover the amazing history, plants and animals of Enoggera Reservoir and surrounds.

Details: Free. Bookings required. Phone (07) 3512 2300 between 9am and 4pm.

30 October & 27 November

BUSH BABIES

Where: Walkabout Creek, The Gap (60 Mt Nebo Road) When: 9:30am – 10:30 (1hr) Get out and about with your little one and join a ranger to discover the wonderful world of wildlife with story time for families and meet an animal up close.

Details: Free with entry to the South East Queensland Wildlife Centre A: $6.60, Chn: $3.20, Family: $16.55. Under 4yrs free. Bookings required.

Phone (07) 3512 2300 between 9am and 4pm.

18

Kids in the City OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 -

28 October

PINK RIBBON DAY

Nearly 3000 Queensland women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and tragically over 460 women will lose their lives to this terrible disease each year. This is why all Queenslanders will come together on Pink Ribbon Day, Monday 28 October, to show their support for the one in eight Queensland women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer by the age of 85 years.

Details: www.pinkribbonday.com.au

www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

November 1 - 30 November

MOVEMBER

Organisation: Movember Foundation Grow a Mo and raise awareness of men's health issues, specifically prostate cancer and depression in men.

W: au.movember.com/

* We publish information based on what is supplied to us - to the best of our knowlege all details are correct at the time of printing, however we do recommend you check event details with the organisers

3 November

6, 13, 20, 27 November

3 November 2

MINI OLYMPICS

ALL ABOUT DISNEY!AT SAILING & KAYAKING Where:PARADISE Captain Burke Park, Holman Street, POINT

Where: New Farm Park, corner Brunswick Street and Sydney Street When: 10am – 12pm Participants will enjoy a fun adaption of the Olympic Games with a focus on fun, rather than winning or losing. For ages 6+, bookings not required Details: Free. For more information contact 'Life. Be in it' FunWorks 0403 221 676.

ADVENTURE KIDS

KangarooPoint PointParklands Where: Paradise When: 10am From -2pm When: 1pm Brisbaneoffered Brass include 2 takes kayaking, you on a trip to Activities sailing, Disneyland withboats, favourites The Lion inflatable power beachfrom volleyball and King, Mary Poppins, The Muppets and Pirates sand art. All necessary equipment is provided.

Cost: $10 of the Caribbean.

Details: P: 0405Free 468Bands 344 orin0420 Details: parks,811 080 www.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Where: Moore Park, Russell Terrace, Indooroopilly When: 3:30 – 4:30pm Activities include putting up tents, orienteering, parachute games, super rockets, bush walking, water squirting challenges, obstacle courses and treasure hunts! Parents are encouraged to participate.

Bookings are not required Details: Free, for ages 6 – 12 yrs, ph. 0412 004 603 for more information

10 November

RIBBON TWIRL ACTION Where: Nixon Park, Oxley Road, Oxley When: 10am – 12pm Make your very own ribbon twirl just like they use at the Olympics! Then get active learning all about how to use your ribbon twirl with a range of exciting tricks Details: Ages 3+. Cost $5. Bookings required contact www.bazilgrumble.com.au

11 November

Where: The boat ramp, Lota Camping Reserve, The Esplanade, Lota When: 9 – 10:30am A great way to learn more about local flora and wildlife as well as having an experienced guide to help with kayaking skills. All kayaking and safety equipment is supplied.

Min age 10 yrs or 6 yrs with an adult Details: Bookings required. Free. For bookings email: bookings@vertecadventure. com.au or via www.vertecadventure.com.au

MARKETS

THE HANDMADE EXPO MARKET - IPSWICH Where: The Ipswich Turf Club, Brisbane Road, Bundamba When: 8am - 2pm, Saturday 19th October and Saturday 16th November Excellence in Making-Baking-Growing. Up to 70 stallholders - why not jump on the Swanbank Steam Train after some lunch and a spot of handmade shopping Details: www.thehandmadeexpo.com.au | ipswich@thehandmadeexpo.com.au

THE HANDMADE EXPO MARKET - MORAYFIELD Where: Leisure Centre, Morayfield Road (behind Bunnings) When: 9am - 2pm, Sunday 6th October and Sunday 3rd November A wonderful indoor market with up to 100 stallholders selling everything handmade, handbaked and handgrown. A great family day out with something for everyone.

Details: www.thehandmadeexpo.com.au | morayfield@thehandmadeexpo.com.au

THE HANDMADE EXPO MARKET - REDLANDS Where: Capalaba PCYC, Cnr Mt Cotton & Degen Roads When: 9am - 2pm, Sunday 13th October and 10th November A wonderful indoor market with up to 80 stallholders selling everything handmade, handbaked and handgrown. A great family day out with something for everyone.

Details: www.thehandmadeexpo.com.au | redlands@thehandmadeexpo.com.au

VALLEY MARKETS Where: Chinatown Mall and Brunswick Street Mall, Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley When: 8am – 4pm, Every Saturday and Sunday Showcasing various stalls selling vintage items, fashion, bric a brac, natural organic produce, and an eclectic range of arts and crafts Details: Free, contact: 07 3403 3740 www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

WORLD DIABETES DAY

Remembrance Day marks the anniversary of the armistice which ended the First World War (1914-18). Each year Australians observe one minute silence at 11 am on 11 November, in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts.

United Nations World Diabetes Day is an event used to increase understanding of all types of diabetes and to raise funds for research. www.diabetesqld.org.au

22 - 30 November

16 November

KAYAK ECO ADVENTURE

14 November

REMEMBERANCE DAY

16 & 17 November

TEDDY BEAR'S PICNIC

Where: The Workshops Rail Museum When: 9:30am - 5pm daily Bring your best fuzzy friend along for a fun day out with stories and songs, a Teddy Bear Parade and Teddy Bear Hunt.

Cost: Museum entry Details: www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au P: 3432 5100

GUIDED NATURE WALK IN BOONDALL WETLANDS Where: Boondall Wetlands Environment Centre, 31 Paperbark Drive, Boondall When: 9 – 11am Join a volunteer interpretive guide on a nature walk and discover the hidden treasures of Boondall Wetlands. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Details: Free. Bookings are essential.

Please book at least 1 week in advance by calling 07 3403 1490.

BrisSTYLE INDIE TWILIGHT MARKET Where: King George Square, Brisbane When: 5pm – 9pm 18th October With over 80 stalls, enjoy a lantern lit celebration of local independent art, craft and design Details: http://www.brisstyle.com.au/indie-twilight-market/

BrisSTYLE INDIE MARKET Where: Ground Floor, Brisbane City Hall, Ann St Brisbane City When: 9am – 2pm, 12th October, 9 November Support local indie artisans and shop ethically at Brisbane’s most gorgeous destination for everything handmade.

Details: http://www.brisstyle.com.au/

THE MUMMY TREE MARKETS Where: Everton Park Hotel, 101 Flockton Street When: 9am – 1pm, 16th November Where: Riverpark Place, Col Gardner Drive, Morningside When: 24th November These markets are a must for the hip and stylish family looking for unique and inspired products and services.

Details: Free entry, www.themummytreemarkets.com.au

SOUTHBANK MARKETS Where: South Bank Plaza, Stanley Street, South Brisbane, Queensland When: Fridays: 5.00 pm - 10.00 pm Saturdays: 10.00 am - 5.00 pm Sundays: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm, Every weekend The South Bank Lifestyle Market features an exciting range of arts, craft, homewares, collectibles, exotic items, designer fashion and much more.

Details: http://www.southbankmarket.com.au/

25 November

WHITE RIBBON DAY The White Ribbon Campaign aims to raise awareness among Australian men and boys about the roles they can play to prevent violence against women. The campaign calls for men across Australia to speak out and take an oath swearing never to commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women. www.whiteribbon.org.au

TICKETS THE CAT IN THE HAT

OCTOBER 1 - 5 Playhouse, QPAC, Brisbane www.qpac.com.au

DORA'S BALLET ADVENTURE LIVE STAGE SHOW OCTOBER 13 Carindale Recreation Reserve, Brisbane http://parents.nickjr.com.au

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG FROM NOVEMBER 19 Lyric Theatre, QPAC, Brisbane www.qpac.com.au

JUSTIN BIEBER NOVEMBER 26 Brisbane Entertainment Centre http://premier.ticketek.com.au/

QUEENSLAND BALLET: THE NUTCRACKER DECEMBER 5 - 21 Playhouse, QPAC, South Bank, Brisbane www.qpac.com.au

THE WIGGLES DECEMBER 23 Brisbane Entertainment Centre http://premier.ticketek.com.au/ SEE PAGE 27 FOR FREE EVENTS AT THE LIBRARY

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 - Kids in the City

19

Education

Do age and maturity matter?

By Maxine Arthur

Many changes are occurring in kindergartens and schools to make them more responsive to individual children’s needs and to provide innovative teaching approaches.

20

Kids in the City OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 -

Q

ueensland children may now access approved kindergarten programs in the year before Prep, delivered by a qualified early childhood teacher for at least 15 hours per week, 40 weeks per year. Kindergarten programs can be delivered in a range of settings, including kindergarten and long day care services.

(Education Queensland) In 2007-2008 Queensland schools came more into line with the rest of the country, increasing the age of compulsory schooling by six months and introducing a Prep year. Children now must be enrolled in school in the year they will turn six by 30 June.

Prep was introduced after an independent review found the Prep Year program was “highly successful in promoting children’s social-emotional development and their communication, numeracy, literacy and motor skills” (Education Queensland). Prep is offered in primary schools and is a full-time program with normal school hours. However, neither kindergarten nor Prep is compulsory and parents may choose to send their child to an alternative early education pro-

gram or keep them at home until compulsory school entry age (6 years and 6 months).

READY OR NOT? AN EXPERT’S VIEW Parents are better informed about early childhood education issues than ever before. The benefits of kindergarten programs are apparent to most parents, but some become concerned about the transition from kindergarten to primary school.

Kathy Walker, Melbourne education consultant and early childhood expert, has written several books on early childhood education. Kathy believes that skills such as reading, writing and counting are not priorities for school readiness.

Social and emotional maturity is the most important factor to consider in deciding when to start a child in school.

“The learning journey is 13 years of school and the Prep year is actually just that: a preparatory year for all of those years and that is what schools do best. What is most needed to thrive and enjoy and make the most of learning is how you travel. Skills such as adaptability, self regulation, independence, continued on next page... www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

The best gift you can give your child is the love of learning

Join us for a tour of the College Discover how your child can thrive from being part

............

of a community that truly wants you child to be the very best that they can be, in every aspect of their life by joining us for a tour of our College on;

Women’s and children’s fashion, homewares and accessories are arriving in store weekly.

Keep up to date, visit us on facebook www.facebook.com/rubylischusfb

Junior Campus (P-6)— 5 Nov, 9.15am Senior Campus (Y7-12) —24 Oct, 3.30pm Come and discover how your child will be nurtured, encouraged and challenged by dedicated teachers who enjoy guiding students through their learning experience.

To RSVP for our Campus tours or to book an alternative date please visit our website or call our Enrolments Officer, Donna Cook on 07 3872 5710.

Dedicated Bus Runs from;

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Junior Campus (P-6) 20 Rogers Parade West EVERTON HILLS Senior Campus (Y7-12) 25 Henderson Road EVERTON HILLS P: 07 3872 5710 E: dcook@princeofpeace.qld.edu.au W: www.princeofpeace.qld.edu.au

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 - Kids in the City

21

Education

Many children will benefit in relation to their general well being, self esteem, attitudes toward school and belief about themselves as a learner

initiative and concentration - these types of attributes are much more important. Maturity helps with this enormously.”

Kathy cautions parents about rushing children into school if there are concerns about their readiness.

“Many children will benefit in relation to their general well being, self esteem, attitudes toward school and belief about themselves as a learner if they move into school without the question mark, without just coping or not just coping, but being able to have a solid and rich childhood of play as a foundation for moving into school with more life experience, maturity and early learning.”

“If parents have concerns they need to consult with the early childhood educator for suggestions and ask if they qualify for funding for an additional year (in kindergarten), although this is becoming increasingly difficult. Funding options for kindergartens are extremely limited and often the safeguard, if you think your child may not be ready, is to delay the four year old kinder year so the child has an extra year of maturity in the first place.”

A TEACHER’S VIEW OF THE PREP YEAR Ida is an experienced Prep teacher based at a Brisbane Catholic school. Her school first offered Prep in 2007.

“We undertake an enrolment process which involves an interview, walk around the school facilities and a visit to the Prep classrooms. The children come for an orientation day in November, where they meet other Prep friends, giving them an opportunity to further become familiar with the Prep environment. There will be additional opportunities for the children who attend our school Kindergarten program, to come over for plays in Term 4, to help the transitioning process.”

All Queensland primary schools follow a curriculum based on well-researched guidelines. Teachers strive for a balance that uses the knowledge, skills and prior experiences the children bring to school to make connections to what they need to learn using a mix of formal learning and active engagement methods.

“Our teaching approaches are based on the principles of Queensland Studies Authority's (QSA) Early Years Guidelines; which is based on active learning, including inquiry and play; and the Australian Curriculum (ACARA). Inquiry based learning through play in Prep provides opportunities for the children to learn how to problem solve, to self direct their own learning, and make connections to the world around them, which is a foundation for all learning.”

Ida sees many advantages for students

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Kids in the City OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 -

who complete a Prep year.

“The Prep year allows students to settle into the school environment, giving them opportunities to become familiar with the school routine and expectations. Having students start school in Year 1 without a foundation Prep year experience, disadvantages the children as they not only have to establish friendships and learn the curriculum, but they also have to learn the 'hidden' curriculum of routines and expectations which they would have otherwise become familiar with in Prep.”

Teachers are aware that students present with differing needs. Ida explains how her school manages this.

“The enrolment process is an open and transparent process which enables a working partnership between home and school, to support the engagement and readiness for formal learning. In some cases where the student is not socially or academically ready for Prep, it may be suggested that another year in a kindergarten environment may be beneficial. The Catholic Education Enrolment Application also allows opportunities to identify and implement support processes that may be necessary for those requiring additional assistance, allowing a smooth transition into Prep.

“Since the implementation of the Prep enrolment age of turning 5 by the 30th June, we are seeing children being more mature and ready to learn, writing independently and being confident in the recognition and reproduction of letter sounds by the middle of the Prep year, giving them an experience of success and a wanting to learn more and do more. Before the implementation of Prep, we were seeing this development at the end of the Preschool year and then the children had school holidays, missing out on the opportunity to extend and develop what they had learnt.”

A PARENT’S VIEW OF PREP Nicky and Jay, from the Coast, moved from Victoria a few years ago with their three children.

Nicky said that the two older children enjoyed a Prep year in Victoria that laid a solid foundation for their later schooling.

“It was great to see how much and how quickly they learned from their Prep teachers. There is only so much you can teach them at home. Social activity is what I found to be the most beneficial in Prep. It is amazing how much more they can learn in a social environment with children within the same age group.”

The youngest child, Yindi, is now four and a half years and attending kindergarten.

“We decided to put Yindi through Kindy as being a mum who works from home I found there was only so much I could do with her. I needed to get work done so she was continued on next page... www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

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Somerville House Welcomes New Director of Pre-Prep The Somerville House community has welcomed its new Director of Pre-Prep, Ms Maree McHugh, as the School expands its existing academic program to include co-educational Pre-Prep classes from 2014.

The Pre-Prep program will be located in a purpose-built Early Learning Centre and will offer a broad play-based curriculum with learning experiences and teaching practices designed to ensure a successful transition to the Preparatory year of school.

Ms McHugh has an extensive background in early childhood education having taught in childcare, preschool, preparatory classes and early year’s university courses; as well as having held administrative positions as the Early Years Deputy Principal at two large state primary schools on the Gold Coast.

“The children will have opportunities to develop skills in early literacy and numeracy and enjoy additional classes in Music, Visual Arts, Foreign Language, Physical Education, Library and Christian Education delivered by specialist teachers within the Early Learning Centre.”

“Somerville House will also offer before and after school hours care and vacation care for Pre-Prep students. The delivery of this service will focus on extending and enriching the wellbeing and development of Pre-Prep students and provide additional opportunities for children to engage in leisure and play-based experiences, while meeting the care requirements of families,” she said.

Most recently Mrs McHugh has been working at the Queensland Studies Authority to develop Queensland’s Policy and Guidelines for working with children from Prep to Year 2.

Early childhood education is not new to Somerville House, as the School was one of the first to run a Kindergarten (Prep) program in 1900, shortly after the establishment of the School in 1899. Somerville House Principal, Mrs Florence Kearney, said the planned early learning facilities are part of the School’s continued investment in early learning education.

According to Ms McHugh, the Somerville House Pre-Prep offering will deliver an unrivalled early learning program, drawing on the full range of the School’s resources and facilities.

“This new offering utilises the full gamut of the School’s existing facilities and services and is conveniently located for those working within the South Brisbane tertiary, cultural, medical and corporate precinct,” Mrs Kearney said.

“The Somerville House Pre-Prep program will offer girls and boys who turn four by 30 June the opportunity to experience one year in a quality early learning program before progressing to their formal schooling. Pre-Prep students will enjoy an indoor learning space with the latest technology complimented by an amazing outdoor learning terrace,” Ms McHugh said.

Somerville House is a Prep to Year 12 girls’ school of the PMSA with boarding available from Years 7 to 12 and a co-educational Pre-Prep program available from 2014.

Leap into learning with Somerville House Pre-Prep

For further information on how to enrol in Pre-Prep at Somerville House in 2014, please contact Somerville House Registrar, Mrs Diana Chaundy, on 3248 9267 or email enrolments@somerville.qld.edu.au.

Somerville House introduces Pre - Prep for Girls and Boys in 2014 Enrol now for the Somerville House 2014 co-educational Pre-Prep program in the new state-of-the-art Early Learning Centre.

The Somerville House Early Learning Centre offers: • Play-based indoor and outdoor curriculum which embraces the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines • Early literacy and numeracy learning in readiness for formal schooling • Specialist classes in Music, the Arts, Foreign Language and Physical Education • Highly qualified teachers and assistants • Convenient on-site parking facilities for Pre-Prep parents and secure access to the centre • Before and after school hours care specifically designed for Pre-Prep students • Application in process for CCB and CCR accreditation.

Somerville House offers the unique opportunity for girls and boys turning four by 30 June 2014 to experience one year in a quality early learning program before progressing to their formal schooling.

For further information or to register your interest in attending Pre-Prep at Somerville House please call our Registrar, Mrs Diana Chaundy, on 07 3248 9267 or email: enrolments@somerville.qld.edu.au.

LE

ARN

A ENG GE

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P L AY

Somerville House

The Landmark in Girls’ Education A school of the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association.

The PMSA is a mission of the Presbyterian and Uniting Churches.

www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 - Kids in the City

23

Education

The college that Yindi will be going to runs a similar playbased program to her Kindy but with a bit more structure.

I believe this is important as it is getting her prepared for Grade 1.

NICKY, YINDI'S MUM

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Kids in the City OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 -

spending a lot of her time in front of the television. Yindi was learning heaps from children's programs but I didn't find that socially healthy. She demanded my time constantly because she was bored. Yindi created a whole new personality after starting Kindy. She was constantly talking about the activities she was doing with her little friends. Her favourite activities were cooking, building a veggie and herb garden, looking after animals and looking for bugs with a magnifying glass. It amazed me how much such a little person could learn. Not only was she learning but she was having fun going to Kindy.”

Yindi is enrolled to start Prep at a private Lutheran College in 2014.

“It is important to us to instill the high moral and ethical values that are part of most religious education systems. We also wanted Yindi to go to a school that was close to our home so she could play with her friends after school hours. We have no problems with state school education: we just

felt the Lutheran College suited our needs as a family better.”

Nicky and Jay researched Prep options carefully before reaching their decision.

“The college that Yindi will be going to runs a similar play-based program to her Kindy but with a bit more structure. I believe this is important as it is getting her prepared for Grade 1. Yindi is ready for school. It is something she talks about all the time. The Kindy teachers talk about school to the children and are getting them prepared.”

Nicky anticipates a ‘settling in’ period and has planned for this.

“Yindi is very excited about starting Prep as well as very nervous. She is nervous because her best friend from Kindy is not going to the same school and even more nervous about not knowing where the toilets are. All this is normal for a 4-5 year old child. We have taken her to the school to show her where the toilets are and where her classroom will continued on next page... www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

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Take the Ball and Run With it As a parent there are plenty of extraordinary firsts you’ll never forget. There’s the day your child was born. The first roll, crawl, walk. The first tooth, word and step. The list is beautiful and endless.

The concept is so popular; Rugbytots is now enjoyed by thousands of little footy stars of the future in New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Spain, Ireland, Italy, South Africa, France and Canada.

Recently a Rugbytot Dad shared his own first with his three-year-old son. He explains, “It was the day he pulled on his first footy uniform. For a week, our energetic little boy had been on countdown to his first Rugbytots class at Ashgrove in Brisbane.

Former semi professional footballers Jason Cooper and Grant Boorman run the sessions at Dorrington Park in Ashgrove on Saturday mornings. They’re family men with a passion for getting kids off the couch.

“When the morning arrived he was bursting with excitement. So much excitement, he ran around the house for hours in just his fluro green footy boots. Pretty cute if you ask me!

“When we gave him the team uniform his grin was from ear to ear. Who knew someone so small could feel so much pride. Our baby boy looked so gorgeous and grown up in his pressed Rugbytots polo shirt and shorts. He felt so special and so did we. I couldn’t resist a photo. Ok maybe a lot of photos!

“We started to wonder, I’m assuming like plenty of other parents, if our little ray of sunshine may one day become a Wallaby or Kangaroo. I’m not ashamed to admit I’ve already pictured the moment he runs onto the field in the green and gold.”

Rugbytots classes are the first of their kind and new to Brisbane’s western suburbs. The play program has been specifically designed for girls and boys aged two to six. The children learn skills from both rugby codes in a fun, enjoyable environment while developing basic core motor skills.

www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Both coaches are fully qualified Rugbytots ambassadors. They’re trained in first aid and carry blue cards.

There’s a coffee shop nearby and a playground too. It’s a fantastic morning filled with exercise, laughter and learning. Classes are tailored to suit any level of skill and the owners encourage girls to get involved. It’s an appealing feature of the Rugbytots program.

Enrolling for a class is easy. Parents can book online at www.rugbytots.com.au.

The website is a synch to navigate. It’s easy to choose a time that suits you.

We were also able to pick a session we knew our son’s friends were in.

There’s an enrolment fee of $24.95, which includes a uniform and guaranteed class placement. Sessions are reasonably priced at $13.95.

If navigating the website is not for you try calling Grant on 0497 980 376 or Jason on 0497 980 370.

Parents, take the ball and run with it. You won’t be disappointed!

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 - Kids in the City

25

Education

THE CITY OF MELTON (VICTORIA) KINDERGARTEN INFORMATION BOOKLET CONTAINS THIS ADVICE: • Young boys, according to some research, may benefit from having an additional year to mature before commencement.

• Multiple births or children significantly premature may also benefit.

• There is no detrimental impact of giving a child an additional year; in fact it is often viewed as a bonus year.

• Don’t assume children will magically ‘catch up’ once they start school. In the majority of cases, they don’t, and in fact the problems in maturity usually become more pronounced.

• Don’t send a child to school already thinking they can repeat prep if they have to. We want the first year of school to be exciting, successful and not just one where the child attempts to ‘cope’ and then has to do it all again.

• Readiness for school or kindergarten is about having the maturity to make the most of these early years.

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Kids in the City OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 -

be. Excitement is now overriding the nerves. I plan on being a ‘hands-on’ helper mum in the classroom as much as I can. I do work full-time but will be taking a step back a little just until I know that she is settled.”

SOME CHILDREN NEED MORE TIME If you have concerns about whether your child is ready to start a kindergarten program or Prep, it is too big a decision to make alone. You should discuss those concerns with your local kindergarten program provider and school. It is possible to start kindergarten later (delayed entry) or to repeat the kindergarten year (delayed exit).

Early childhood educators suggest a delayed entry to kindergarten is preferable to repeating either kindergarten or Prep.

There are no waiting lists for enrolment in Prep at state schools though parents are encouraged to contact their chosen school in the year prior to commencement. Enrolments in Catholic or Independent schools are usually taken by application up to two years prior to commencement.

WORKING TOGETHER Schools do not expect that all children will be 100 % ready on all aspects of the various ‘readi-

ness’ checklists that are readily available. Educators are continually refining their ideas about children’s readiness for formal schooling and looking for better ways to engage children in the process. By focusing attention on ‘readiness’, parents have become aware that children’s development is nourished in the play and exploration of their daily lives from birth. The emphasis on good beginnings also encourages schools to create learning environments that take account of children’s diverse needs and nurture them through their school years.

RESOURCES: Top tips for preparing for Prep – www.earlylife. com.au website has excellent practical tips for preparing a child for school, listed under Parenting Factsheets.

Further reading: Ready, Set, Go by Kathy Walker (How to tell if your child's ready for school and prepare them for the best start) and What's the Hurry? by Kathy Walker (The importance of giving children a childhood). www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Early Education

More than just books

Libraries Babies, Books and Rhymes Meet other parents and babies for a fun session of singing, clapping and dancing. Learn songs and action rhymes to nurture your baby's preliteracy, communication, language and social skills. Ideal for babies and toddlers aged up to two years.

Every Monday Annerley 10.30am – 11am Chermside 11am 11.30am Every Tuesday Inala 10 – 10.30am Garden City 10.30 – 11am New Farm 2 – 2.30pm Every Wednesday Carindale 9.15 – 9.45am Indooroopilly 9.30am – 10am Sunnybank Hills 10 – 10.30am Mt Ommaney, Wynnum10.30am – 11am Fairfield 11 – 11.30am Ashgrove 11.30am – 12pm Every Thursday Bulimba 9am – 9.30am Grange, Banyo, Hamilton 10.30 – 11am Everton Park 1 – 1.30pm Every Friday Corinda, Zillmere, Kenmore, Stones Corner, West End (9.15 start) 9.30am – 10am Nundah 10 – 10.30am Carina, Sandgate, Holland Park, Mitchelton, Coopers Plains 10.30am – 11am Toowong, Chermside, 11am – 11.30am

www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Library Children’s Storytime Experience the magic of storytime with your child at the library. This interactive session includes stories, songs and craft activities for children.

Ideal for children aged 2-5 years.

Every Monday Corina 11am – 12pm Every Tuesday Mt Coot-tha 9.30 – 10am Toowong, Kenmore 10 – 10.30am Annerley, Mt Gravatt, Grange 10.30 – 11am New Farm 2 – 2.30pm Every Wednesday West End 9.30 – 10am Everton Park, Banyo, Mitchelton, Garden City, 10.30 – 11.15 am Every Thursday Sandgate, Stones Corner, Corinda 9.30 – 10am Every Friday Inala, Wynnum, Sunnybank 10am – 10.30am Grange, Bracken Ridge, Hamilton, Ashgrove, Mt Ommaney, Bulimba, Garden City (Cantonese), 10.30am – 11.30am Indooroopilly, New Farm, Fairfield, 11am – 11.45am Every Saturday Brisbane Square 11am – 11.45am Every Sunday Chermside, Garden City 10.30 – 11.15am Brisbane Square, Indooroopilly, Carindale 11 – 11.45am Indooroopilly 2 – 2.45pm

Libraries Toddler Time Meet other parents and toddlers for a fun session of singing, clapping and dancing. Learn action rhymes and songs which will help your child’s pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. Ideal for toddlers aged 1-3 years.

Every Monday Sunnybank Hills, Chermside 10 – 10.30am Every Tuesday Indooroopilly 9.15 – 9.45am Garden City 9.30 – 10am Every Wednesday Wynnum 9.30 – 10am Kenmore 9.45 – 10.15am Carindale 10 – 10.30am Every Thursday Indooroopilly 9.15am – 9.45am Every Friday Chermside, Mitchelton, 10am -10.30am Carina 11.30am – 12pm

Education

&

r e d n e G ducation e THERE HAS ALWAYS BEEN DISCUSSION SURROUNDING SINGLE SEX AND CO-EDUCATIONAL SCHOOLS. DO GIRLS AND BOYS ACTUALLY HAVE DIFFERENCES IN THE WAY THEY'RE EDUCATED? IS ONE GENDER DISADVANTAGED OVER THE OTHER? ARE SINGLE SEX SCHOOLS THE ANSWER?

By Luke Goldston

G

irls are quiet, well behaved and attentive in class. Boys are noisy, disruptive and can’t sit still. Girls are better at school because they try harder and listen, or so the stereotype runs. Unfortunately for boys, there seems to be more than a grain of truth to this.

Ever since the late 20th century, when girls started to have equal educational opportunities, they’ve outstripped boys at school. Boys in Australia are twice as likely to drop out of school early, they attend university less frequently and in almost every subject area they tend to be outperformed by girls. Boys also have higher rates of learning disabilities and ‘problem’ behaviours.

The one remaining bastion of male dominance is maths and sciences such as physics, where boys still hold a significant edge.

These problems are not new; they’ve been recognised for decades, but despite the best attempts of governments and educators to correct the imbalances, very little has changed.

IT’S ALL ABOUT ATTITUDE As attractive as the theory may be to some girls, it’s not simply that girls are smarter. In fact, last year researchers at the University of Georgia in America found that boys who scored the same as girls on standardised tests received lower grades from teachers, usually for reasons of behaviour and attitude.

Whether you think this is a failure on the part of the teachers to recognise the fundamentally different nature of boys or as evidence of an ongoing socialisation problem for males may depend entirely on your point of view. Outright

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bias probably wasn’t the reason though, because boys who did behave well were actually marked better than their female equivalents.

IT’S A WOMAN’S WORLD The reasons for girls’ dominance are frequently debated. Could it be that schools have undergone a ‘feminisation’ process, with male teachers being gradually edged out, physical education de-emphasised and the environment and curriculum becoming generally more geared towards female learning?

ABS figures do show that the proportion of males in state schools has declined between 5-10% in the past decade and this may well have some effect on learning outcomes for both sexes.

A 2012 study from the London School of Economics showed that teachers tended to mark students of their own gender higher and students of both genders rated their motivation and effort higher with male teachers than female.

There is also some substance to the charge that changes in the school curriculum have favoured the overall performance of girls. The Federal Education Department found that in 2011 51% of senior students participated in science subjects, down from 94% 20 years ago. Maths has seen similar declines. These are both subject areas in which boys actually tend to achieve similar or better results than girls.

DOES SCHOOL MATTER? School isn’t everything, and it isn’t for everyone.

At least part of the reason why boys leave school early so much more than girls is that they often

have alternatives to school that girls don’t. The ABS shows that boys are roughly twice as likely to leave school early and this chance increases if they have a parent in a manual or trade job, which are overwhelmingly dominated by men.

While this may be a viable option for many boys, the likelihood is that it will become less so with time. The overall trend is for advanced economies to move away from male dominated industries like manufacturing and agriculture and become oriented to service jobs which are more and more going to educated women.

In Australia, women have long dominated enrolments in university courses such as teaching, nursing and social sciences but are now ahead of men in even traditionally ‘male’ courses such as medicine, accounting and business.

Although men still hold a significant income advantage over women overall, partly because they dominate the upper echelons of most fields, they are also more likely to be unemployed (particularly long term unemployed), go bankrupt and be homeless.

GIRLS AND MATHS DON’T MIX Unfortunately for girls, gender differences at school are not all good news. In the crucial areas of maths and science, girls are lagging and the gap is getting wider. The difference is not as apparent in primary education and early high school where girls often do just as well as boys in standardised testing but after this, their participation drops off dramatically.

Even younger girls who are good at maths can show signs of the inequality to come. When their www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Single gender classrooms have been on trial at some state schools in Queensland for the last five years and have generally received good results and positive feedback from the teachers, students and parents. The current LNP government position is to give local principals, parents and school authorities the option to form single sex classrooms, rather than mandating a state-wide policy. One policy proposal from the state Labor opposition is to go one step further and introduce completely single gender state high schools. If you’re interested in introducing single gender classrooms at your school, talk to your principal. maths test results are equal to boys, girls rate their ability and enjoyment of the subject lower, which helps to explain why even girls who do well at maths are less likely to continue with the subject in later years.

By the end of high school the differences are huge and getting worse. The proportion of girls who are not studying maths for HSC in NSW has tripled in 10 years. Female engineering undergraduates represented 14% of the total in Australia 2004, a decline from the peak in the late 90s.

Another subject that has seen decline is computer science. While 37% of Australian graduates were women in 1984, in 2011 that number was less than 12%.

In the context of an increasingly technologybased economy, the declining interest of girls in maths, science and technology and the careers that stem from them may turn out to be a bigger problem than the overall underperformance of boys. It may also help to explain why, despite their superiority in overall academic performance, girls still lag behind in overall wages, with maths results being one of the most stable and significant predictors of future income.

SEWING, KNITTING AND DARNING At least some of the problem might be rooted in culture and history. When compulsory education first started in Australia in the 19th century, children were separated so that boys could be taught mathematics and geometry undisturbed by the girls who learnt sewing, knitting and darning.

While opportunities are theoretically equal now, more subtle forms of gender bias persist.

Daughters often inherit their mother’s anxiety about maths and science and teachers tend to rate girls’ ability lower than boys at math, even when test results are equal.

It should be noted that problems with maths and science are not exclusive to girls, but are part of a more general decline. Australian school enrolments show that boys are dropping out of maths at almost the same rate as girls; it’s just that girls as a group are being more disadvantaged. www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

• Maths rewards patience. Most people over-rate the role of natural ability in success.

• Maths learning starts at home. Spend time with younger kids teaching them numeracy, just as you would with reading; everything from basic counting games, telling time and putting them in charge of the money when you go to the shops.

• Confidence is everything. Girls in particular are prone to inherit their mother’s anxiety and negative attitudes about maths and science. If you had problems with these subjects at school, take care not to pass them on.

• Context helps. Girls and boys often lack an interest in maths and science because they fail to see their relevance. Aside from the potential career benefits and real life applications, maths and science teach logical problem solving skills that can improve anyone’s mind.

BUT THEIR BRAINS ARE DIFFERENT...

Are we wrong to expect some kind of parity between boys and girls in their academic results and interests? After all, the male and female brains are fundamentally different aren’t they?

The issue of differences in male and female brains is highly contentious. There is evidence that boys’ brains mature more slowly, with some studies showing that girls’ IQ scores are a little higher until the end of puberty, when boys start to draw level.

There are also some signs that girls and boys in general have different strengths. For instance, cognitive testing suggests some gender based differences in specialised abilities, with girls tending to have higher verbal abilities and boys better at spatial reasoning. However, it’s unlikely the differences are big enough to account for the differences in participation and performance.

Some researchers actually believe that height is a bigger factor in predicting overall intelligence than gender. If you think this sounds ridiculous, perhaps it’s worth rethinking our notions of how big an effect gender has on our brains.

DIVIDE AND PROSPER? Single sex schooling is often cited as the cure for

both boys’ overall lagging and girls’ maths and science problems. The theory runs that each gender finds the other’s presence in the classroom distracting, though possibly for different reasons.

Interestingly, girls seem to be more in favour of separation than boys.

One of the few totally randomised studies of school allocation happened in 2011 in South Korea, where placement in publicly funded co-ed and single sex schools is based entirely on random allocation. It found that both boys and girls who were allocated to single sex schools were significantly more likely to attend college than those who attended co-ed schools. Unfortunately, it appeared to make little difference to whether girls chose maths and science based college courses, though it did appear to improve boys’ performance in these subjects.

Experiments with single sex classrooms within co-ed schools have had mixed results.

Some have shown promise in, for instance getting girls engaged in physics and maths and improving their recognition that these fields are not just ‘for the boys’. The results are far from universal though, which suggests that simply separating boys and girls is not the whole answer.

SEX ISN’T EVERYTHING It’s easy to get caught up in the gender debate.

There are clear and significant differences between the education experiences of boys and girls when looking at overall populations. However, these differences often don’t hold true for individuals and the differences between the sexes are probably not as great as the differences within the sexes.

Although there are often some differences in maturity and behaviour, the differences in boys’ and girls’ biology are probably smaller than was previously thought. Whether your child’s teacher is male or female is probably much less important than whether that teacher is well trained, prepared and able to engage their students; whether their classmates are male or female less relevant than the overall learning environment and their support at home.

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 - Kids in the City

29

Babies

A Detached look at

Attachment Parenting

By Belinda Hopper DID YOU SEE THE MAY 21, 2012 TIME MAGAZINE COVER PHOTOGRAPH OF A YOUNG MOTHER, STANDING, HER TOP PULLED DOWN TO THE SIDE, WHILE SHE BREASTFED HER FOUR-YEAROLD SON STANDING ON A CHAIR NEXT TO HER? THE HEADLINE PROVOKED: ‘ARE YOU MOM ENOUGH?’ ...AND PROVOKE IT DID!

S

ince then, Attachment Parenting (AP) has been debated and critiqued regularly.

60 Minutes did a story, calling it Extreme Parenting, saying it “challenges all conventional notions about parenting”. Baby expert, Pinky McKay, was in the news for an expletive-ridden blog rant against those she calls Baby Tamers, who implement Controlled Crying, or Parent-Directive Feeding with their babies. All in defense of Baby Cuddlers, who feed On Demand, central to AP philosophy.

It seems emotions run high when it comes to Attachment Parenting. And Child Psychologist, Dr. Heather Harrison, reckons this is partly due to the label: “If there is a type of parenting called Attachment Parenting then it logically follows that all other types of parenting are by definition Non-

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Kids in the City OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2013 -

attachment Parenting. And who wants to practice parenting that isn’t attached? You look cold and heartless… The name itself doesn’t allow parents to look at it objectively.”

So let’s put the name aside for a moment and take an objective look at how the philosophy came about, the theories and science behind it, what it looks like in practice and what the critics say.

BACKGROUND: Many cultures have, for thousands of years, practiced breastfeeding well into the toddler years, co-sleeping with their children and carrying their infants in slings for much of the day. But Pediatrician Dr. William Sears is largely responsible for reintroducing this instinctive-parenting style into the

mix of modern western parenting philosophies, through the first of his thirty-plus parenting books, The Baby Book (1993).

THE PHILOSOPHY: There are three main tenets to Dr. Sears’ AP theory: AP mothers breastfeed their babies whenever the baby demands it and for as long as the baby wants it, often into toddlerhood and beyond. It is the baby who decides when it is time to wean, not the mother.

AP mothers tend to their babies’ every need so that they are never left to cry unattended. This means having their baby physically attached to them during the day, in a sling or pouch. Dr. Sears claims that babies left to cry for extended periods have elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to brain damage.

AP babies co-sleep with their parents every night, sometimes for years. Dr. Sears claims that babies left to sleep in separate beds or rooms from their parents grow depressed and feel abandoned by their parents.

THE CLAIMS: Contrary to claims that the physical demands of AP makes parenting more onerous, the Association of Attachment Parenting Australia, claims that AP makes parenting easier and more enjoyable www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

because of the strong bond of trust it nurtures between parent and child. They say this creates a secure child who is also empathic and responsive to others.

In fact, Dr. Sears claims that he has never known of an AP child who has ended up a bully!

He claims that bullies are children of detached parenting, who have built up resentment and anger at not having their immediate needs met by their parents.

THE SCIENCE: A May 2012 report in TIME’s Health & Science section questions whether Dr. Sears’ claims are based on sound scientific research. The focus is particularly on his article “Science Says: Excessive Crying Could Be Harmful” and his claims that babies left to cry develop antisocial behavior, poor school performance and a tenfold increase in the risk of ADHD, with experts countering, “Our findings provide evidence that the quality of maternal behavior appears to be unrelated to this effect”.

IN PRACTICE: Mother of two, Fiona, was introduced to the AP method through speaking with other parents and through her midwives. She was given Dr. Sears’ The Baby Book whilst pregnant and found the more she read, the more the philosophy made sense: “I think AP is really what comes naturally to most parents. Wanting to nurture, love and be attentive without being permissive and indulgent.”

Asked how they found AP in practice, Fiona says she and her husband co-slept with their firstborn, Estelle, until she was 7 months old, “… at which time I decided none of us were actually sleeping well because being that close to the breast she just wanted to nurse all night, or at least use me as a pacifier.”

But she did breastfeed on demand until Estelle was 14 months old, “…she weaned herself, mainly because my milk went back to colostrum as I entered the second trimester of my second pregnancy, otherwise I would have continued to nurse her up to 18-24 months.”

Fiona’s second child, Sadie, did not like co-sleeping at all, “…so from birth she slept in her own bed, right beside me, until she was 13 months. I still fed on demand and wore her everywhere until about 7 months - once she was mobile she wanted to be down and chasing her big sister. She weaned herself around 13 months as well. She just lost interest in nursing.”

Fiona particularly likes the nurturing aspect of AP: “…being responsive to my babies’ needs www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

created a sense of intimacy between us. I felt like we could really communicate, I knew exactly what they needed.” She also enjoyed wearing her babies in the sling, “…I could do whatever I needed to: cook, clean, play with the older sibling, and the baby was content and often asleep.

As she became more aware she also enjoyed being close and involved in whatever I was doing.”

Asked whether she found a downside to the practice, Fiona said she wonders whether being attached to her at all other times made it hard for Estelle to be strapped into her car seat as a baby: “…she did not like to be in the car seat and so if we needed to go longer distances she would be unhappy because she wanted to be held and so would scream for the whole car ride.”

But Fiona believes the practice and benefits of AP reach well beyond babyhood, “AP never really ends, it just changes focus as the child grows. Being available and attached to your child is a workin-progress. What one child needs from you is not necessarily what a sibling needs. Being able to adapt to each child's personality, and help them feel safe and secure, is the ongoing challenge, but AP has given me confidence in my parenting.”

THE CRITICISMS: One of the loudest criticisms of AP is that it is antifeminist. Just as women earned the right to have a baby and pursue a career outside of the home, thanks to the advent of baby formula and the establishment of child care centres and paid parental leave, a string of parenting experts tells them that to be a good parent they need to be present to meet their child’s every need—on demand.

And not every family can afford to live on one salary while the mother stays home. As economic reporter, Helaine Olen, says; “Whatever one thinks of the pros and cons of Attachment Parenting … it doesn’t come cheap, especially since there aren’t many (if any) employers out there waiting for an employee who turns up with multiple children in slings and otherwise clinging to her body."

To these criticisms Dr. Sears responds; “Women are the greatest multi-taskers in the world. AP, modified to the parents’ work schedule, helps busy parents reconnect with their child, which actually makes working and parenting easier.

It’s attachment moms that forged the long overdue workplace-friendly continued on next page...

I think AP is really what comes naturally to most parents.

Wanting to nurture, love and be attentive without being permissive and indulgent

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Babies

breastfeeding-pumping stations and laws which respect and value the ability of a working mother to continue part-time breastfeeding.”

But TIME reporter, Kate Pickert, argues that it’s just not practical to both work and be an AP-style parent, “In practice AP can be exhausting because of the lack of sleep. And there’s no evidence that wearing a baby in a sling or sleeping with them will affect how they will turn out as adults.”

The risk of suffocation from co-sleeping with parents is the most alarming criticism of AP. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) there is an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), especially when a baby is less than 11 weeks, if either parent smokes, is very tired, has drunk alcohol recently or is on medication or drugs that make them sleep heavily. This is because, in your bed as opposed to a cot or crib, your baby could: • Get trapped between the bed and the headboard • Fall out • Get dangerously overheated under a duvet next to two hot adult bodies • Get accidentally suffocated if you unknowingly roll on them.

But Dr. Sears argues that babies learn to arouse themselves through co-sleeping, by following the sleeping rhythms of their parents. He says, “research has shown that in most cases, SIDS is caused by a baby's inability to arouse himself from sleep. Normally, when something occurs that threatens your baby's well being, such as difficulty breathing, he will automatically wake up. For reasons that are still unknown, in some babies, this protective mechanism does not go off, and so these babies are more at risk for SIDS.” Psychotherapist, Dr. Robi Ludwig, is concerned about the impact of AP on a child’s development and whether it creates an unhealthy level of dependence in the child upon their parents, or even whether it creates spoilt children, “When you give a child the feeling that the whole world revolves around them, it’s not good training for the real world,” she says. “The whole world doesn’t revolve around anybody.”

THE REALITY No one would argue against ‘breast is best’, even though according to Australia’s most recent statis-

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The risk of suffocation from co-sleeping with parents is the most alarming criticism of Attachment Parenting

tics from Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC), not many of us breastfeed our babies for an extended period. The statistics showed 92 per cent of children were breastfed at birth, but that figure fell steadily from month to month with only 14 per cent of babies still being breastfed by 12 months.

Yet no parent let their child starve!

And what if you have a back or neck injury that prevents you from using a sling? Or you have twins and can’t physically function with two chil-

dren slung across your body? Or you have four children and you were all in the bed and the little one said, “roll over”?

What would Dr. Sears say?

He says Attachment Parenting is really about “…opening your mind and heart to the individual needs of your baby, and eventually you will develop the wisdom on how to make on-the-spot decisions on what works best for both you and your baby.” www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

PARENT ville

By Aleney de Winter

War on slumber

H

aving long had a dysfunctional relationship with slumber, broken sleep isn’t new to me. So, though I was warned that motherhood would be anything but somniferous, I thought I’d manage just fine when night feeds and a crying baby at 2am became my reality.

In fact, I was lucky to have had previous experience in the world of the perpetually awake, because my son delighted in maternal tête-a-têtes during the wee dark hours for a year, by which time even a seasoned insomniac like myself started to crave sleep. When the circles under my eyes turned from purple to black, I stoically accepted the fact that he wouldn’t sleep through until he was 34.

Sleep so broken that it has been smashed to pieces, set fire to and buried, before having its grave danced merrily upon.

Until, one morning I awoke feeling oddly refreshed and terrified, and rushed to my baby’s side where, like any normal paranoid mother, poked him repeatedly to make sure he was breathing. He was asleep (or had been).

He’d slept through! On this great day, there was much rejoicing and the people danced and feasted and all was right with the world. Yea, verily.

Night after night, sleep and I snuggled up tight...until someone came between us; someone with curly hair, blue eyes, and four teeth. At first their trysts were brief but soon they were spending whole nights together. My diaper-clad despot was ready to go to war to ensure sleep and I were through.

Though I can normally cope with broken sleep, I must clarify. There’s the broken sleep of the occasional insomniac and there’s the broken sleep of the mother of a despotic devil boy. Sleep so broken that it has been smashed to pieces, set fire to and buried, before having its grave danced merrily upon.

Using all my skills of diplomacy, I carefully explained to my son that he was contravening human rights laws as sleep deprivation is defined as torture under UN conventions and figured I could begin rebuilding my fractured relationship with sleep. I knew that it might take time for us to reach those former giddy heights — but I believed that sleep and I were meant to be.

Sadly, my sleep-stealing sadist of a son disagreed. I tried everything, even replacing his bedtime reading of ‘Hairy MacLary’ with ‘The Universal Declaration of Human Rights’, to no avail. Last night he cranked up his war on slumber. After being woken for the seventh time I lay in wait for him to start pulling out my fingernails with pliers and pondered whether, if apprehended, he’d be tried at The Hague and if they’d need me to be a witness for the prosecution.

At 4am I’d have happily testified.

Now, bleary-eyed, I watch as my angel-faced oppressor plays with his Little People, a picture of innocence. But I’m on to my mini-Machiavelli as he toys with their little plastic lives... popping this one in a helicopter and another in a car and the one that looks like a plastic sleeping mummy on the plastic railway tracks — before gleefully mowing her down with a bright red train.

All I can do is wait for a celebrity activist to start a campaign to save me from my tiny tormentor. I pray it won’t be Sting (though his soporific droning could put us both to sleep). Personally, I’m hoping for George Clooney. He likes a good cause and, as well as giving me something nice to look at, he’d be sure to bring a couple of martinis to help ameliorate the pain. www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

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A Conversation with

LAUGH CRY PONDER WITH FRANCES WHITING

Interview by Jackie Goldston Brisbane’s Frances Whiting is one of Australia's best known and most popular writers. Her column in the Sunday Mail has been a reader's favourite for 17 years this year, making people laugh, cry, and ponder, from Melbourne to Mackay and beyond.

Her first work of fiction, Walking on Trampolines, is out this month. Filled with lovable and unforgettable personalities, Walking on Trampolines is beautifully written and explores a journey through friendship, first love and family ties.

Frances has been married to husband John for over 15 years and has a nine year old son and her daughter is nearly five. She shares, “We live in a big old rambling house and have a big old rambling life to go with it!”

With her column now spanning nearly two decades in print, how does she keep the topics fresh and relevant? She explains, “It’s 17 years this year, which is unbelievable to me. I don’t find it as hard as you might imagine, because I have an insatiable curiosity about life, and I love its quirks and all those moments that still surprise us or make us laugh. The column is really a reflection of that and therefore there’s always lots of material.”

BEING A PARENT You often hear of how people change the way they write or approach topics once they have children. Has this been the case for Frances? “No, not really. Only like all people who have the joy of becoming parents, it has made me more emotional as a writer, and I feel things more deeply if they involve children.”

Being in the public eye can make writers understandably cautious and protective of their children. Frances has taken steps over the years to look out for the wellbeing of her family. She explains, “I don’t write about my children as much as people seem to imagine. I never wrote about either of my pregnancies until the children were

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born, I have only allowed one photo of them each to be published as newborns, so no-one knows what they look like, and I stop referring to them by name once they begin school. Also, I would never write anything about them that in any way could impact their lives negatively.”

Her life defining moment has been “having children, and finding out how much love I was capable of. I have always been a softy, but this love is so big, so defining, so wonderful.”

FINDING BALANCE There is not really a typical day for Frances. Her days can be varied but often include, “getting up, going for a run if I’m being good, being with my daughter if it’s a non- kindy day for her, that’s gymnastics and park time and a patty cake, then school pick up and homework and housework, but if it’s a work day then I could be interviewing a politician, or writing a feature so it’s a bit of a double life, actually!”

So how does she find balance in her family life? “With the help of my husband, we very much share the load and also by underpinning everything that we do with the understanding that family comes first”. It is very clear how important family is to Frances. When discussing the motto that drives their family she shares, “…as a unit, the four of us have to come before anything and also that you can never give a child too much love.

TRANSITION Frances started her career as a teacher before a change to journalism after a nudge from family and friends. She shares, her motivation was “a feeling that I was not doing what I was meant to be doing. The strange thing was I really had no idea what that was until my friends and family reminded me of all the stories I wrote as a child. I’d somehow forgotten in the hurly burly of life how much I loved it.” She has been inspired by many

writers and describes herself as a voracious reader. Her childhood favourites include, “Enid (of course!) Blyton, and Astrid Lindgren, and these days I love Liane Moriarty, Tony Parsons and Nick Hornby.

I’ve just finished reading The Art of Fielding and I loved it!”

WRITING A NOVEL Having been an avid, lifelong reader as well as a columnist and journalist, I was curious as to how she found the transition from writing for immediate publication to a novel. She explains, “It’s a lot slower! I think I have been lucky in that the very long features of up to 5000 words that I write for Q Weekend gave me at least some inkling of what I was in for! I really enjoyed writing the novel, but if I did it again I would do it quite differently.

For me it was very much a sporadic process in between working and having children and juggling speaking and charity commitments. Next time - if there is a next time - I would love to write over a concentrated, dedicated period of time.”

Walking on Trampolines has been described as “late-bloomer's coming-of-age tale”. How would she describe her new novel? “Probably surprising! I think readers of my column will expect it to make them laugh, but they may not expect it to make them cry. It’s a very Australian book also, a bit of a love letter to my childhood.

And it’s pretty multi- layered, in terms of plot.”

Given Frances’ longevity of success, I was interested what advice has had the biggest impact on her? She shares, “Be bold and mighty forces will come to your aid, is a line I heard in the movie Almost Famous, uttered by the actress Frances McDormand, and it really resonated with me because I - believe it or not - can be a very hesitant person and not always confident in my own abilities. But hearing that freed me a little, I think.” www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

IT'S ALL about YOU

"I’ve learned so much from my mistakes…

I’m thinking of making a few more!"- CHERYL COLE

Bigger is better!

“Being a mother is learning about strengths you didn't know you had, and dealing with fears you didn't know existed.”

- LINDA WOOTEN -

A large American study has found that you are more likely to marry and less likely to divorce if you have more than two siblings.

The study didn’t examine why (although I am sure we can take a few guesses). Whatever the explanation, when it comes to preventing divorce in adulthood, the group of sociologists from Ohio State University found "the more siblings the better”.

FAKE IT UNTIL YOU MAKE IT.

The more you smile, your body tricks your mind into believing that it is truly happy even when you thought differently.

- ALEXA VARANO, 2013 -

www.kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Escape to the movies!

DIANA Advanced Screenings 4th – 7th October Celebrated and adored by millions, she was the Queen of people's hearts, yet the bittersweet story of the last man to truly capture hers has never been told. Princess Diana (double Academy Award nominee® Naomi Watts), at one time the most famous woman in the world, inspired a nation with her generosity, compassion and kindness – and in her final years she would meet the man, Dr. Hasnat Kahn who in turn inspired her. Starring: Naomi Watts, Naveen Andrews, Cas Anvar, Douglas Hodge.

At the end of winter, vitamin D levels are typically at their lowest…

Cancer Council Australia recommends that Queenslanders need a few minutes of sun exposure on most days, year around to help prevent vitamin D deficiency.

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