Kids on the Coast Magazine - Gold Coast - Issue 43

kidsonthecoast ISSUE 43 | February/March 2013 | GOLD COAST

Jordyn Yarker

LOCAL GIRL SHOOTS FOR THE STARS THE ADOPTION JOURNEY SELF-ESTEEM VS. EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE CLASSROOM CALMING

SIGNS OF SERIOUS HEALTH PROBLEMS P LU S H O L I DAYS , PA RT I E S , W H AT ' S O N CA L E N DA R A N D LOT S M O R E !

Contents FEBRUARYMarch2013

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From the Editor

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The Power of the Positive

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CHECK THIS OUT: New, fun and funky things

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FEATURE: The Adoption Journey

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THE ‘P’ FILES: Is Emotional Intelligence more

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BABIES ON THE COAST: Signs to take seriously: serious health

problems in newborn babies 32

PROFILE: Shooting for the stars: Gold Coast's Jordyn Yarker

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GOOD HEALTH: Autism

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LET’S CELEBRATE: Slumber Party Politics

important than Self Esteem?

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS: Sydney Family Escape

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Find out what’s happening on the Coast

42 REVIEWS

during February and March 22 EDUCATION: Classroom Calming: Bringing meditation to schools

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS FOR ISSUE 43: Sandra Smith, Dr. Julian Paxton, Belinda Hopper, Janet Sparrow, Deborah Whiteoak, Aleney De Winter, Chaley-Ann Scott COVER: Jordyn Yarker

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

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PUBLISHED BY: THINGS 4 KIDS PTY LTD. PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562 PHONE: 1300 430 320 FAX: 07 5471 2372 WEB: www.kidsonthecoast.com.au ABN: 86 473 357 391. All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast 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 on the Coast 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@kidsonthecoast.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 EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Sandra Smith, ChaleyAnn Scott, Jackie Goldston, Gary Hands, Dr Sarah Lantz, Aleney de Winter ADVERTISING: For advertising enquiries please phone 1300 430 320 or email: advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY: Speak with your advertising coordinator or email: advertising@ kidsonthecoast.com.au Production Department: Email: production@kidsonthecoast.com.au ADMINISTRATION: Kellie Kruger DISTRIBUTION: Kids on the Coast (Sunshine Coast edition) is a free publication circulating over 20,000 copies from Caloundra to Noosa and through the hinterland.

Separate edition covers the Gold Coast. For distribution enquiries please phone: 1300 430 320 or email: admin@kidsonthecoast.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGN: Kimberley Pederson & Alana Falk FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

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Welcome to

kidsonthecoast

Did you make a New Year’s resolution? As always, I resolved not to make a resolution as by now I have usually already broken it…

And with nearly 50% of us making one on the night and the majority giving up before the end of February I decided that I wanted to make 2013 about being positive. I have no specific resolution other than to look at things in a more positive manner.

So with this in mind, the Kids on the Coast team have kicked off a positive start to the school year right here on this page!

PowerofthePositive

THE KOTC TEAM ARE STARTING THE NEW YEAR ON A POSITIVE NOTE AND SHARING WORDS THAT HAVE INSPIRED THEM:

“I am” and “I can”: are some of the most powerful words, for what you put after them can shape your reality and influence the choices your children make.”

In this edition we are very excited to share the journey so far of Gold Coast tween Jordyn Yarker, who is about to embark on the opportunity of a lifetime. We explore the importance of self-esteem and emotional intelligence and how the two interplay and yet are so very different in the roles they play in our children’s development; and discover the benefits of mediation for children and how this can be integrated into a school situation.

Our feature story this edition talks to couples who have chosen for various reasons to adopt and share their amazing and worthwhile experiences, despite the unexpected twists and turns along the way.

I would love to hear what you think of our magazine. All of our articles are online and you can comment and discuss the topics on our website. Please feel free to contact me via Facebook.com/ kidsonthecoast, 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!

Adapted by Jackie, Editor

“You will always be your child’s favourite toy” shared by Kimberley, Designer

"I am an idealist I don't know where I am going but I am on my way" shared by Louisa, Advertising

There is no way to be a perfect mother.... but a million ways to be a good one. shared by Toni, Publisher

Jackie Goldston Editor

“Each day is a gift. Don’t send it back unopened” shared by Alana, Designer

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

“This year I am focusing on fun. Fun for me and fun for my kids. I am sure that life was meant to be full of fun!” shared by Renee, Advertising

“Sometimes what you want isn’t what you get, but in the end, what you get is so much better” shared by Kellie, Admin

“Motherhood is a choice you make every day to put someone else's happiness and well-being ahead of your own, to teach the hard lessons, to do the right thing even when you are not sure what the right thing is yourself, and to forgive yourself over and over again for doing everything wrong” shared by Simone, Associate Publisher

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ADVERTISEMENT/LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE

Literacy At The Roots Of Early Education The highly acclaimed children’s picture book The Alphabet Tree by Leo Lionni has been the basis for an innovative and highly engaging new literacy program targeted at Kindergarten Children.

The Alphabet Tree complements other early literacy programs at Lindisfarne Grammar including the Cued Articulation and the Qld Early Literacy Foundation programs to ensure that all elements of the reading formula are practiced and reinforced to instil a lifelong love of reading.

The unique Alphabet Tree program is one of the key reasons Kindergarten children at Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School are excelling in early literacy after it was developed by the School’s Head of Primary, Michele Chandler, with Speech Pathologist Karyn Johns.

Mrs Chandler said, “Our unique program has been acknowledged as best practice due to its ability to introduce Kindergarten students to important concepts. For example, by visually using an image of a tree where each letter is written on a leaf at the top of the tree, words are written on the back of a bug and sentences are written on the back of caterpillars.”

“The teachers benefit by having a framework to work with that caters for the different learning styles of children within a group and easily gives the conceptualisation of the whole theme by viewing the leaves, word bugs and caterpillars as a collective whole co-existing on the tree” said Mrs Chandler.

This multisensory approach caters for different learning styles and each Kindergarten classroom has a visual Alphabet Tree mural and props for the word bug and sentence caterpillars which they place on the tree throughout literacy lessons. Mrs Chandler went on to say “This program works really, really well and is an interesting way for the children to learn the key elements required whilst having fun interacting with their class teacher who dress up as the word bug from time to time.”

Kindergarten 2014 ANGLICAN GRAMMAR SCHOOL

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

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Whatsnews

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@kidsonthecoast.com.au

Gallery of Modern Art:

FOR KIDS

Kids’ APT7 at GOMA in the Art Gallery in Brisbane features 13 interactive art works by exhibiting artists especially for children and families.

There is something to delight the senses and inspire the minds of all children. From mask making and recycling to animation, the new exhibition offers a rich participatory experience and is curated to provide meaningful insights into contemporary art created across Asia, Australia and the Pacific region. Acting Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek explained “Kids’ APT gives young audiences and families access to contemporary art in an educational and fun way, and this year, through Kids’ APT on Tour, children in 80 regional centres will also experience the terrific APT7 artist projects”.

Entry to GOMA is free.

DID YOU KNOW?

RABBITS LIKE LICORICE? THE AVERAGE PERSON FALLS ASLEEP IN 7 MINUTES? THE HAWAIIAN ALPHABET HAS 12 LETTERS?

BEACH SHOWERS GET A MAKEOVER

Inherited

EXPERIENCES? Researchers in England have discovered a potential method through which parents' experiences are passed to their offspring's genes. Sound a little strange? Scientists from Cambridge University have found that offspring may inherit altered traits due to their parents' past experiences. An example is historical incidents of famine have resulted in health effects on the children and grandchildren of individuals who had restricted diets, possibly because of inheritance of altered genetic markers.

Targeting Salt A new Australian study has found that targeting salt intake may be a better way to head off the obesity epidemic in kids and prevent them from reaching for a sugary drink in the first place. "In addition to the known benefits of lowering blood pressure, salt reduction strategies may be useful in childhood obesity prevention efforts," concluded the researchers from the Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research at Deakin University in Sydney. The researchers tracked the eating and drinking habits of 4,200 Australian kids who were between 2 and 16 years old. They found kids who took in the most salt through their diets also took in the most sugary drinks in the study.

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

Beachgoers will benefit from a makeover of showers at popular recreational spots at the southern Gold Coast. Engineering Services Committee chair Councillor Daphne McDonald said the new-look showers with drinking bubblers attached, would be easier to use and disability friendly. “We are replacing the timber box-like structures that are prone to higher maintenance, with a modern stainless steel and concrete facility in keeping with our city’s innovative style,” she said. “A concrete patch will link the showers with existing footpaths and the surrounding areas will be turfed.” The shower renewal program will be rolled out at Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera Creek Park, Palm Beach, Currumbin Creek foreshore and Marine Parade, Coolangatta. The project, part of the city’s annual capital works program, will take effect from February.

The NEW “my funland”

Visit Stockland Burleigh Heads or log on to www.myfunland.com.au today and sign up to be in the draw to WIN 1 of 4 ultimate kid’s party packages, valued at $2,500!

Plus, when you’re a my funland member, you’ll discover fun events and activities for your kids aged 3 to 9 in the local community and in centre. So, if you’re looking for adventure, team sports, arts and crafts, or the chance to throw your kids a party to remember, sign up today! www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Checkthisout 2

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6 1. LOTTA: SPACE EDITION: Developed for 5-10 year old kids with 60 pages of art, craft, cooking, play and activities inspired by stars, planets, rockets, aliens and astronauts. RRP $10 from www.lottamagazine.com or selected retailers 2. SMOOZE!: Yum! Escape the heat with a 100 per cent natural Smooze Fruit Ice. Box of 10 / RRP $6.49 from supermarkets/ independent grocers 3. OTI MONTH, SHOPPING AND MEAL PLANNER: From the desk to the kitchen, keep organised with the simple, yet smart planners.

From $9.95 at www.oti.net.au and selected retailers 4. ARTROOMS: ArtRooms takes that amazing collection of your child’s drawings, scribbles and paintings and turns them into a collaged masterpiece. From $200 at www.artrooms.com.au 5. STICHTAGRAM PILLOW: Design your own Instagram throw pillow, great quality with a beautifully soft textured black denim envelope closure-style back. USD$68 from www.stitchtagram.com 6. HAIR CHALK: The coloured chalk hair sticks easily rubs onto your hair and best of all it washes out with your next shampoo.

From $8.95 http:www.hairchalk.com.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

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the adoption journey WELCOMING A NEW CHILD INTO THE FAMILY IS A JOYFUL TIME FOR ADOPTIVE PARENTS, BUT IT OFTEN COMES AFTER A LONG AND DIFFICULT ADOPTION JOURNEY. COUPLES WHO CHOOSE THE ADOPTION PATHWAY SAY IT’S ALL WORTHWHILE IN THE END, DESPITE THE UNEXPECTED TWISTS AND TURNS ALONG THE WAY.

by Sandra Smith

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www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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strong relationship is vital for couples considering adoption, because they go through a rigorous process that includes background and medical checks, assessments and social worker visits.

Adoption provides permanent care for children who are unable to live with their birth families, so there is a trail of paperwork and a list of criteria to be met. Applicants can expect long wait times and many expenses when the adoptee is born overseas. There are also increasingly stringent guidelines to protect children and their families against the risks of illegal or irregular intercountry adoptions.

ADOPTION TRENDS In 2010-11 there were 384 finalised adoptions across Australia, the lowest annual number on record, according to an Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) report. This is a decrease of 96% since 1971-72, when 9,798 adoptions were recorded.

These figures reflect the decline in the number of children who need adoption and are legally able to be adopted. Increased social support for young single mums, as well as declining birth rates, more effective birth control and alternative legal orders have all contributed to the reduction in the number of Australian adoptions. This means there are now fewer children requiring adoptive placements than couples seeking to adopt a child.

In Queensland, adoption has steadily declined in recent years and in 2010-11 there were just 40 adoptions, consisting of 35 children from overseas and five local children. This is a significant reduction from the early 1970’s when there 1,458 annual adoptions in Queensland.

Intercountry adoption numbers have fluctuated over the last two decades, and have been the most common type of adoption in Australia since 1999-00, however, these figures are also declining steadily, due to economic and social changes that allow children to remain with their birth family or be adopted in their country of origin.

This decline has made it much more difficult for prospective adoptive parents, who now face long wait times and complex procedures. For intercountry adoptions, the wait times depend on where the adoptive families live and which country they choose to adopt from. While some families may move through the process quickly, the average wait is four to seven years and may take up to twelve years.

The Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services (DCCSDS) states that in

Rianne and her family

“You don’t think there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, and then you get the photo and all the work was worth it,” Australia the adoption time frames depend on matching a couple’s capabilities to the needs of a child. The wait time for intercountry adoptions is determined by the overseas agency that accepts a couple’s file, and the Australian government is unable to have any influence on these time frames. Some overseas partner countries also have specific eligibility criteria regarding the adoptive parents’ age and marital status, as well as infertility requirements or restrictions on family size.

“Overseas programs increasingly seek adoptive placements for older children, sibling groups and/or children with highly complex medical, social and behavioural needs,” the department spokesperson advises. “This has meant significant waiting times for couples who are approved to adopt a child from overseas.”

THE ADOPTION JOURNEY Queensland mum Rianne Muller and her husband decided to adopt a child after trying unsuccessfully to have a baby for several years. continued on next page...

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“We don’t see race, we don’t see colour, we see our children playing happily,” Rianne and her family

They applied for an intercountry adoption in 2004 and received the news that a child was allocated three years later. They travelled to South Korea to adopt baby Jack when he was seven months old.

“It’s a tough process. You don’t think there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, and then you get the photo and all the work was worth it,” Rianne says.

The adoption journey was long and arduous, with a lot of paperwork and regular assessments and interviews to ensure that their circumstances hadn’t changed. Despite the difficulties, Rianne says it is a rewarding experience if applicants can stick it out. She and her husband have never looked back and they would do it all over again.

“We had issues getting Jack, but I wouldn’t trade those issues because I’ve got my son. He’s everything to us, so we’re very, very happy,” she says. “I didn’t adopt to rescue a child. My husband and I wanted a family, so we worked very hard and we jumped through every hoop. The end result is we now have a family.”

Prospective adoptive parents need to make informed and educated decisions about their future family life, so it’s vital to research adoption as much as possible. Rianne recommends visiting relevant websites, joining an adoption support

group and immersing yourself in the culture that your child is coming from.

they are going to be friends and they’re going to talk to each other.”

For the past two years, Rianne has been the membership secretary for the International Adoptive Families of Queensland (IAFQ), a volunteer organisation that assists and supports existing and future adoptive families. There are about 250 member families in IAFQ, which has support groups in most Queensland regions and hosts regular multicultural activities, including picnics and camps.

INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTION PROGRAMS

Rianne says being part of the IAFQ network is worthwhile for participating families, who can share their experiences with others and meet children from a range of countries. Most IAFQ member families have adopted children from other countries; however, some members have adopted local children.

“When we get together, we’ve got children from all over the world and they all get together and they are just kids. We don’t see race, we don’t see colour, we see our children playing happily,” she says. “It’s very important for children to know they are not alone. There are other adoptees who are in the same boat, and we want to make sure

The Federal Attorney-General’s Department (AGD) is responsible under the Hague Convention for managing Australia’s intercountry adoptions, which generally only take place when there is an established inter-country adoption program with another country.

Australia closed its intercountry adoption program with Ethiopia in June 2012, following several years of issues including long waits and uncertainty for Australian prospective adoptive parents. Attorney-General Nicola Roxon advised that the decision was made after considering the sustainability of the program and the best interests of Ethiopian children.

“Unfortunately, the adoption environment in Ethiopia has become increasingly unpredictable, complex and uncertain, leaving many prospective Australian parents in limbo for years,” Ms Roxon said after announcing the closure.

“The government has concluded that this uncertainty, combined with obstacles to operating continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

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the program in a sustainable and ethical way into the future, means the program needs to be closed.”

Queensland currently participates in active intercountry adoption programs with Chile, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, Lithuania, Philippines, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand.

Adoption programs with Fiji and India are on hold.

A Department of Communities spokesperson confirmed that intercountry adoption programs are controlled by participating countries and are subject to change.

“Factors that influence the status of a program can include the number of children in need of adoption, the number of applications received across the world, resource and infrastructure limitations within countries of origin and a range of social, political and cultural considerations within the country of origin,” the spokesperson advises.

“Changes include increases in the fees couples seeking to adopt a child are required to pay, lengthening timeframes for the allocation of a child, changing criteria that couples have to meet to be eligible and change to the status of a program, such as a program may be suspended or may close.”

Adoptive mum Rianne says that some people are hurt by policy changes that are beyond their control. After applying for a second child, Rianne’s file was ready to be sent over to South Korea when the age limit for adoptive parents was suddenly reduced. She was “heartbroken” when she received a phone call on her birthday advising that she was ineligible.

ADOPTION COSTS The government fee for a local adoption is $554 as at 1 July 2012, however, intercountry adoption fees include $3,985 for assessment and a further $1,708 for post-placement supervision. Extra costs for overseas adoption vary depending on the child’s country of origin, but expenses include international airfares and accommodation, medical, legal and visa fees, and donations.

Rianne estimates the overall cost of adopting a child from overseas would now be between $20,000 and $50,000. “It’s an awful lot of money, but that’s where the commitment comes in,” she says.

LOCAL ADOPTION While the majority of adoptions are now intercountry, some families choose to adopt a local child. Sunshine Coast mum Chrissie

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has adopted two locally born children, both of whom are still under five. Chrissie’s four-year-old daughter was adopted in 2009 and her second child, now one year old, was welcomed into the family in 2012.

Chrissie and her husband were lucky to have a relatively short wait for both their children; they waited a year for their eldest and just six months for their youngest daughter. She attributes the short wait to fate and being in the right place at the right time.

“I’m just so blessed that I was placed with children in the first place, especially if you go a second time,” she says. “The greatest thing is just being a mum and having a family, watching them grow and develop.”

In Queensland, the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services (DCCSDS) administers the Adoption Act 2009 under the principle that the wellbeing and best interests of an adopted child, both through childhood and the rest of his or her life, are paramount.

When an adoption order is granted, the legal rights and responsibilities are transferred from the birth parents to the adoptive parents, thus, adoption is a life-changing experience for everyone involved—the birth family, the child and the adoptive parents.

Most local adoptions are now “open”, so the birth parents, the child and the adoptive parents all know each other, exchange information and have contact with one another. This is a major change from past practices where adoptions were closed and identities remained hidden. Chrissie does not have open adoption agreements in place yet for her children, but she says it’s possible in the future.

ANSWERING THE DIFFICULT QUESTIONS The secrecy and shame surrounding adoption is long-gone, but misconceptions about adoption have endured in the wider community. Adoptive families find that people ask intrusive questions about their children’s background and visible differences in appearance, without any respect for their privacy. This is challenging for adoptees, who have been separated from their birth families and may be dealing with that loss.

Parents need to work through any issues that arise with their children in an honest and open way, and turn to support services when necessary.

Chrissie often fields probing personal questions about why she chose to adopt, how much it cost and why her daughter was put up for adoption.

“I just ignore or brush over those kinds of questions and people quickly get the message of what’s appropriate and what’s inappropriate,” she explains.

Chrissie wants her daughters to feel comfortable and proud of their adoption, so she wrote a children’s book, Mimo’s Answers, to help address the difficult questions about adoption.

“The book, specifically, was written for my little ones, and I then just put it out to the adoption world,” she says. “My little one knows that she grew in my heart and not in my tummy...she knows the real basics.”

Mimo’s Answers gives children the language to talk about adoption, so they are equipped with responses when issues relating to their adoption come up, says Chrissie. To order the book, contact Chrissie at: chrissy_zaremba@bigpond.com.

INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES For more information, visit the following websites: • Attorney-General’s Department: www.ag.gov.au • Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services: www.communities.qld.gov.au Support services for people affected by adoption include: • International Adoptive Families of Queensland (IAFQ): www.iafq.org.au • Jigsaw Queensland Inc: www.jigsawqueensland.com • Post Adoption Support Queensland (PASQ): www.benevolent.org.au/connect/the-impact--of--adoption

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T he P Files

Is Emotional Intelligence more important than Self-Esteem?

By Belinda Hopper

ASKED WHAT THEY HOPE FOR THEIR CHILD, MOST PARENTS SAY THEY JUST WANT FOR THEM TO BE HAPPY. IT’S ONLY IN THE FINE PRINT THAT WE ADD, AND HEALTHY AND SMART AND SOCIABLE AND CONFIDENT, AND SUCCESSFUL. BUT PERHAPS THESE THINGS ARE MORE RELATED THAN WE THINK?

H

appiness is an elusive, unquantifiable goal. However, links have been made between high emotional intelligence, high self-esteem and greater levels of happiness and feelings of wellbeing. There is also a proven correlation between perceived parental love and happiness.

Since the ‘60s, when psychologist Dr Stanley Coopersmith asserted, “ability and academic performance are significantly associated with feelings of personal worth,” the focus of child development landed squarely on the importance of building up self-esteem and has gained traction in both parenting and education circles.

The idea is to build up a child’s self-esteem by mastering skills and gaining knowledge, which

attracts praise, which makes a child feel good, happy, and confident within their self.

Boosting your child’s IQ has become big business, with education-based games and books and toys and flash cards and CDs and DVDs aimed at turning your child into a little Einstein, to give them an academic advantage and therefore boost their self-esteem.

BUILDING BLOCKS OF SELF-ESTEEM The Australian Raising Children Network gives these age-related milestones in self-esteem development: Babies don’t have a sense of themselves or self-esteem. They learn that they are loved and lovable because of the love and nurturing they receive. continued on next page...

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Help your Child Achieve More Are you wondering how can karate and martial arts teach wholesome values and success skills?

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

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T he P Files

Toddlers still don’t fully understand themselves; that their body and mind belong to them. Learning new skills adds to their sense of ability and who they are. When they say ‘no’, they learn that they are a separate person, but they see themselves through their parents’ eyes. If parents show and tell them that they are special and lovable, they will develop self-esteem. If they get messages that they are not lovable or are a nuisance, they will not easily develop self-esteem.

Preschoolers, by age 3, have learned that their bodies and minds are their own. They are more confident with time away from their main caregiver as they have an inner sense of self. They learn their self-esteem by comparing themselves with others.

For many Primary school-age children, self-esteem tends to fall due to coping with new expectations, children and rules. Self-esteem in these years is about how well children manage their learning, sport, friends, and appearance. Stresses such as parents fighting, having trouble with schoolwork, being bullied or not having friends, can all affect their self-esteem.

By High School, peers challenge parental influence.

A study from the University of the Pacific, on the impact of self-esteem and emotional intelligence on risky behaviour in teens and young adults, found that emotional intelligence and self-respect helps kids reduce their likelihood of performing risky behaviour, whereas self-esteem significantly increases the likelihood of risky behaviour.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF-ESTEEM There is sound reasoning behind the self-esteem movement, as research has proven that self-esteem is vitally important for a person to become a well-adjusted and high-functioning adult. A person’s self-esteem is heavily dependent upon how they are treated by their parents as children. And a healthy self-esteem is proven to play a crucial role in academic success.

Inversely, low self-esteem has been linked to emotional instability, anti-social behaviour, poor academic performance and depression. Yet, new research has shown that an over-inflated selfesteem also leads to emotional instability, antisocial behaviour and depression.

Interestingly, Professor Nicholas Emler argues from his research that whereas those with low self-esteem pose a danger only to themselves, those with high self-esteem pose a danger to society, as they are more likely to indulge in behaviour with negative effects on others.

It seems then, that we need to be aiming for the goldilocks band, where a child’s self-esteem is not too low and not too high, but just right, in order to ensure their emotional intelligence and therefore their ability to integrate well, socially.

THE SIDE-AFFECTS OF OVERINFLATION Australian social commentator, Hugh Mackay, fears we could be making the transition into adult life harder for our children, by focusing on building up their self-esteem. He says, ''There's a lot of life that's just a hard grind. If we overemphasise self-esteem in kids, inevitably when they reach adulthood, early adulthood, even adolescence, they're going to find it very hard to cope with disappointment and failure.''

Professor Helen McGrath, senior lecturer in the School of Education at Deakin University, goes further, suggesting wider social ramifications of inflated self-esteem, "Parents and teachers always have the best interests of children at the heart of what they do and their involvement in the 'self-esteem movement' has reflected that. However, although well-intentioned, this movement is now seen by many researchers to have contributed to a stronger sense of entitlement and, in some cases, higher levels of narcissism."

Even more concerning, McGrath says, “New

international studies were showing kids with inflated self-esteem were more likely to be ringleaders in bullying”.

TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING How do we cross the line from healthy self-esteem to an over-inflated self-esteem? Lisa Firestone, author of The Self Under Siege, thinks it happens when we get carried away with praise, saying: "Studies have shown that children offered compliments for skills they haven't mastered or talents they do not possess are left feeling as if they'd received no praise at all, often even emptier and less secure," she wrote in Psychology Today. "Only children praised for real accomplishments were able to build self-esteem. The others were left to develop something far less desirable — narcissism."

Dr Jennifer Crocker, who has worked on a series of self-esteem studies at the University of Michigan, critiques the self-esteem movement from another angle, identifying the core problem as being that it bases self-esteem not on the self, but on external things.

Crocker‘s research found that, “students who based their self-worth on external sources: including appearance, approval from others and even their academic performance, reported more stress, anger, academic problems, relationship conflicts, and had higher levels of drug and alcohol use and symptoms of eating disorders.”

Because the resulting behaviours of inflated selfesteem lead to actions lacking in self-respect, it is worth examining the difference.

SHIFTING OUR FOCUS McGrath says we need to place more emphasis on self-respect than self-esteem. "We can work with parents to change their focus slightly and identify self-respect as a more useful goal rather than self-esteem," she says. "People who continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

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T he P Files

"A person’s self-esteem is heavily dependent upon how they are treated by their parents as children. And a healthy self-esteem is proven to play a crucial role in academic success."

have self-respect have sound values that they use as a 'moral map' to treat others respectfully.

They consider themselves equal to other people (neither inferior or superior) and work hard to try and achieve their goals. They are resilient, accept themselves as imperfect and continue to be self-accepting in spite of mistakes or failures.

Although they enjoy receiving positive feedback, they are not dependent on it to feel okay."

Some experts are concerned that while we have been busy building up our children’s self-esteem, we have hindered their emotional wellbeing.

This is because emotional intelligence is not only about taking a measure of our own emotions and learning to respond appropriately to the circumstances in which we find ourselves, but it is also about learning to read others and respond appropriately to them. In contrast, self-esteem is focused purely on the self.

EQ AND SELF-ESTEEM: WHAT’S THE CONNECTION? Since the ‘90s, Emotional Intelligence has become the measuring stick to assess adaptability, resilience and social aptitude. Experts now suggest we focus less on our child’s IQ and achievements, and focus more on their EQ (emotional quotient), because it is important to teach children how to feel and to talk about and respond appropriately to their emotions, as well as teach them how to think.

According to research conducted at Armidale University, higher emotional intelligence is associated with better psychological functioning and greater wellbeing. It is also associated with less depression, greater optimism, the ability to repair moods, characteristic positive mood and high self-esteem, (opposed to inflated self-esteem).

High emotional intelligence is proven to have a positive impact on a child’s choices both socially and individually. McGrath says studies show that children with high self-respect and emotional

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

intelligence “are more likely to help tackle the problem of bullying, as it builds an ability to empathise with others”.

THE FUNCTION OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE According to Dr Jeanne Segal and Melinda Smith, in their article on raising emotional intelligence, it builds five key skills: • The ability to quickly reduce stress.

• The ability to recognize and manage your emotions.

• The ability to connect with others using nonverbal communication.

• The ability to use humour and play to deal with challenges, and • The ability to resolve conflicts positively and with confidence.

While these skills are needed for all of life, the grounding for them needs to be established in the young years. Studies indicate that a greater perceived parental love is associated with higher emotional intelligence, with particular emphasis on the amount of love and warmth received from the mother. So the more love we show to our children, the greater their levels of emotional intelligence.

WHAT SHOULD WE AVOID? Psychologist, Dr Randall Grayson, says it is important to understand the parental responses that hinder a child in developing an emotional intelligence. He says parents should avoid: • Dismissing their child’s emotions as unimportant • Ignoring their child’s feelings • Encouraging their child to stop expressing their negative feelings • Distracting their child as a means of shutting down their emotional response • Not teaching problem-solving skills • Focusing on getting over the emotion, instead of understanding the meaning of the emotion • Trivializing the problem so you can move on.

SO HOW DO WE DEVELOP EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE? Psychologist, Dr Laura Markham, says there are five practical ways we can show love and nurture emotional intelligence in our children: • Acknowledge your child’s perspective and empathize. Feeling understood helps soothe your child’s feelings and helps them self-reflect on emotional triggers. It also helps them develop empathy for others.

• Allow expression of emotions, including disappointment and anger. Accepting your child’s emotional response helps them understand that we all experience the full range of human emotions.

• Listen to their feelings. When we teach children to express their emotions in an appropriate way, it helps them to avoid tantrums now and repressed anger later on.

• Teach problem solving. After children have learnt to express their feelings and they feel understood, it’s time to empower them by helping them find constructive solutions to their problems.

• Play it out. Emotionally healthy kids learn to understand and control their emotions through play. Sometimes role-playing out emotional responses with your child allows them to resolve their issue, in order to move on.

According to Crocker, the paradox of parenting is that if we want our children to be happy, with a healthy self-esteem and high emotional intelligence, we need to take the focus away from building their self-esteem and shift it to a wider, communal focus that contributes to others. She says, “It’s about having a goal that is bigger than the self.”

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Tiffani Wood Vocal Coaching BACKGROUND Not many singing teachers can boast of having been a member of Australia's most successful girl band, BARDOT. As a former member, Tiffani Wood released a No.1 album titled Bardot and a No.1 single Poison with three top 10 follow up singles and a second album which also had three top 20 singles and went multi-platinum and gold with sales throughout Australia, NZ, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, India and UK.

that make you stand out and focusing on them. As a coach would to a football team; I stand from the sideline and watch what you do and let you know what I think will help you play a better game and in your case sing a better song,” says Tiffani. With students working towards various goals and dreams including auditions, eisteddfods, recording, acoustic mid year concert, themed end of year stage concert, styling & song writing workshops and so much more.

FINDING YOUR STYLE Tiffani has never been a big fan of being taught how to sing as she didn’t want to end up sounding like all the other kids in her talent school. Fortunately finding the right coach enabled her to learn techniques and apply them to how she wanted to sound so that she’d stand out on stage, not blend in. Tiffani is also passionate about helping her students connect with their music. Tiffani explains, “I didn’t like being told what to sing especially if I didn’t like the song or felt no connection with the lyrics. I won’t make you sing a song you don’t like. I find with a lot of my new students who come to me from other teachers saying they were made to sing songs they hate, or sing songs that were classical when they wanted to do pop. Singing comes from the heart and without an emotional attachment to a song you will never get the best out of your performance.”

GLEE GROUPS If one on one lessons aren’t your thing, Tiffani has also introduced small “Glee groups” with a maximum of 6 students at a time. These groups are suitable for a variety of needs including for those not quite confident enough to sing solo, who just sing for fun, who may have already formed a group or aren’t able to afford private lessons. These classes focus on singing mixed with acting and dance.

VOCAL COACH in 2011 Tiffani decided to share her wisdom and knowledge of her career, spanning over two decades in the music industry and her singing experience of over 23 years, and become a private vocal coach. “I’m all about guiding you on how to best use the voice you already have. Finding the qualities

If you are interested in booking in for your first FREE half hour private lesson please email tiffaniwoodvocalcoaching@hotmail.com or visit www. tiffaniwood.com and hit the enquiry tab. Connect on Facebook at www. facebook.com/tiffaniwoodvocalcoaching

TINY TOTS Also new in 2013 are the Tiny tot groups for 4-6 year olds. Full of fun, laughter and kid friendly songs. Singing, dancing and acting with a great teacher who also plays guitar, was a member of the Flowerpot gang and has written and presented her own childrens tv show.

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• Private vocal coaching • Live performance stage • Glee groups 7-16 years • Musical Theatre • Tiny Tots

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www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

19

CALENDAR Gold Coast

February Friday/ Saturday nights during Feb

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS

Where: Various locations including Labrador, Ormeau, Palm Beach, Southport, Pacific Pines When: Usually from 7pm There is no better way to spend a hot summer's night than slouching back under the stars watching a movie. Check out a park near you for a great free night out. Bring a blanket or chair. In the event of wet weather the Movie Night will be rescheduled.

Visit the GC Parks website on the day for updates if the weather is uncertain.

Cost: Free Details: http://www.gcparks.com.au/events

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.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Feb 8 and 22 March 8 and 22

BMX CLUB RACING NIGHTS.

Where: Ashmore BMX Club, Currumburra Rd, Ashmore When: From 6pm Come try the Olympic sport of BMX, ride for fun and fitness, from age 4 and up including adults of all ages. Get the kids outside, make new friends & have some fun!

Cost: $6, Trial Licence required.

Contact: club- ashmorebmx@gmail.com; www.ashmorebmx.com.au

9 Feb

ACTIVE FUN IN THE PARK AT REEDY CREEK Where: Southern Skies Park 'The Observatory' Southern Skies Avenue Reedy Creek When: 3pm – 4.30pm Grab the kids, your friends and neighbours and get active with us this weekend in a park near you No bookings are required and activities are suitable for all ages and ability levels. Water Mad: We have a wet obstacle course, slip and slide, sponge - catch and other games to keep you all cool! Cost: Free Contact: (07)5534 4030 info@childrensfitnesscentre.com.au

10 Feb

FARM DAY AT SOUTHPORT

Where: The Great Lawn Broadwater Parklands Marine Parade Southport When: 11am – 3pm Bring the kids down for a free day of pony rides, animal talks and meet and greet with the animals Cost: Free Contact: parks@goldcoast.qld.gov.au

From 15 - 24 February

INTERNATIONAL CHD AWARENESS DAY

HeartKids aims to raise awareness for all aspects of children's heart disease. They support children with heart diseases, as well as their families, including those who have lost young children.

Heart Kids works towards reducing both the incidence and the mortality rates of childhood heart disease. www.heartkids.org.au

22 February

22 February

BOARDIES DAY

THE BOURNE LEGACY (RATED M)

Celebrate summer and ditch your usual work or school attire for your favourite board shorts and help raise vital funds for Surf Life Saving. It's open to all ages and a great way for you to support your local volunteer surf lifesavers.

Email: boardiesday@lifesaving.com.au www.boardiesday.com.au/

BEACHFRONT MARKETS

EVERY WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY EVENING Where: The Esplanade, (North & South of Cavill Mall), Surfers Paradise When: 5:30pm – 10pm Make, bake or grow it, is the ethos of these markets. Each stall features a variety of local, hand-made or grown products, including fashion, jewellery, accessories, crafts, artworks, photographs, beauty products and home wares. www.surfersparadise.com, spa@surfersparadise.com

THE UPPER MARKETS

3 FEBRUARY, 3 MARCH, 7 APRIL Where: Upper Coomera State College, Reserve Road, Upper Coomera When: 9am - 1pm A new boutique style market that showcases the work of handmade, home-grown, small businesses and WAHP's and offers quality handmade items, ranging from skincare to children’s clothing and toys.

Details: http://theuppermarket.com.au

MARKETS PRODUCE BY THE PIER AT SOUTHPORT

9, 23 FEBRUARY; 9, 23 MARCH Where: The Great Lawn and The Pier Broadwater Parklands Marine Parade Southport When: 7am – 12pm The award winning Broadwater Parklands at Southport will boost its eco-credentials with the launch of Produce by the Pier, a new market that champions sustainability and features fresh, highquality local produce.

Cost: Various Contact: Blue Sky Markets, (07) 3844 2440; http://www.producebythepier.com.au/

MONACO MARKETS

24 FEB, 31 MARCH Where: 110 Monaco Street, Broadbeach Waters When: 8am - 12noon Pre-loved and new designer clothing and accessories, jewellery/ beading, shoes, handbags, kids clothing, food & coffee.

Cost: FREE entry Details: www.monacomarkets.com

THE VILLAGE MARKETS

3, 17 FEBRUARY; 3, 17 MARCH Where: Burleigh Heads State School oval When: 8am - 1pm With 70 fashion, vintage and art stalls, including trendy kids stalls, as well as live local music and delicious food, there is something for everyone in the family at The Village Markets.

Details: www.thevillagemarketsgc.com.au

20

Where: The Great Lawn Broadwater Parklands Marine Parade Southport When: 11am – 3pm Free fun for adults and kids, come and enjoy the experience of a camel ride around the park Cost: Free Contact: (07) 5581 1617

ZERO 2 FIVE MARKETS

3 MARCH Where: Upper Coomera State College, Indoor Sports Centre, 137 Reserve Road When: 9am – 12pm Buy or sell quality pre-loved and new products such as clothing, toys, books, prams, car seats, and furniture “Market Prices”. No retail pricing in sight!

Contact: http://www.zero2five.com.au/

Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

23 Feb

Where: The Marine Village, Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove When: 7:00 - 9:00 PM Every second and fourth Friday of the month, enjoy free movie screenings on the Village Green at Sanctuary Cove. Round up your family and friends, grab a rug and a chair and join us from 7pm onwards for a night out under the stars! Please note: All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: Free Contact: www.sanctuarycove.com/events; (07) 5577 6500

winn w wi win inn n iin ing ng n g me medi med m ed da

Where: Circle on Cavill, Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise When: 7 – 10pm Surfers Paradise is the only place on the Gold Coast where you can live the excitement of Tropfest, the world's largest short film festival. Each February, the global micro-movie phenomenon is beamed live to the big screen at Circle on Cavill Surfers Paradise from its home base at The Domain in Sydney.

Cost: FREE Contact: (07) 5584 3700, http://www.surfersparadise.com

CAMEL RIDES AT SOUTHPORT

Where: Surfers Paradise Beach Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM See Surfers Paradise as never before, as lions, elephants, zebra and hippos take shape along the iconic Foreshore. Play your part in the competition, with children's activities throughout the week, including sand sculpting workshops, sand art and sand bottle making Cost: FREE Contact: (07) 5584 3700, http://www.surfersparadise.com

17 February

GC SCREENING TROPFEST

17 Feb

AUSTRALIAN SAND SCULPTING CHAMPIONSHIPS

14 Feb

14 Feb

VALENTINE’S DAY

THE MUMMY TREE MARKETS

9 MARCH Where: Sanctuary Cove – Off Masthead Way When: 3pm – 7pm, Twilight Market These markets are a must for the hip and stylish family looking for unique and inspired products and services.

Cost: FREE Details: www.themummytreemarkets.com.au

MAMMA'S MARKET

6 APRIL Where: Mudgeeraba Memorial Hall, Railway St, Mudgeeraba When: 2pm – 6pm Mamma’s Market is a high quality boutique style market with a focus on handmade, unique items and services catering to pregnancy, baby, children’s and family needs Details: www.mammasmarket.com

FROGS SESSION AT COOMBABAH

When: 7pm – 8.30pm Environmental Consultancy. Experts will guide you along the Melaleuca boardwalk, finding and identifying the many frog species that inhabit the Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area. Learn the differences between native frogs and the cane toad, what frogs eat, their calls and where they live. Don't forget to bring a torch. Activity suitable for ages 8 and above. Please note: Bookings are essential. Cost: Free Contact: (07) 5581 1521 or email namu@goldcoast.qld.gov.au to book your spot.

TICKETS DRIVING MISS DAISY

3 TO 24 FEBRUARY Playhouse, QPAC, South Bank, Brisbane www.qpac.com.au

THE SURFER AND THE MERMAID FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2 The Space, Gold Coast www.theartscentregc.com.au

LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL FROM 12 MARCH Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Bank, Brisbane www.qpac.com.au

THE BIG PINEAPPLE MUSIC FESTIVAL 20 APRIL The Big Pineapple, Sunshine Coast www.bigpineapplemusicfestival.com

ROOM ON THE BROOM

13 MAY Arts Theatre, Gold Coast www.theartscentregc.com.au

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

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

March 2013 Friday/ Saturday nights during March

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS

Where: Various locations including Labrador, Ormeau, Palm Beach, Southport, Pacific Pines When: Usually from 7pm There is no better way to spend a hot summer's night than slouching back under the stars watching a movie. Check out a park near you for a great free night out. Bring a blanket or chair. In the event of wet weather the Movie Night will be rescheduled.

Visit the GC Parks website on the day for updates if the weather is uncertain.

Cost: Free Details: http://www.gcparks.com.au/events

8 March

UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

International Women's Day is a day to celebrate the contribution and achievements of all women.

It is an opportunity to remember the barriers that women have broken through, and the accomplishments they have made despite barriers.

15 March

NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION AGAINST BULLYING AND VIOLENCE

The theme of the day encourages parents and families to take a stand together with school communities and recognise the important role that everyone plays to stop bullying. www.cybersmart.gov.au/NDA.aspx

23 March

EARTH HOUR

Earth Hour is an international sustainability movement, where individuals and businesses are encouraged to turn off all lights for an hour. Earth Hour aims to increase awareness of the impact we have on our world through the use of fossil fuels and electricity. www.earthhour.org/

2,3, 9 March

BEACH CARE COMMUNITY DUNE CARE

Where: Currumbin Beach (beach end of Currumbin Alley, Duringan Street, 2nd March) The beach, North Burleigh (just north of North Burleigh SLSC 3rd); Shearwater Esplanade, Runaway Bay 9th March When: 9am – 11am Cost: Free Give back to the beaches that give you so much enjoyment! Get involved in a free community dune planting morning on the Gold Coast. A fun and social activity, suitable for all ages, kids welcome.

Contact: Naomi Edwards (07) 5552 8823 http://www.griffith.edu.au/coastal-management

9 March

DADS DAY OUT - FISHING AT ADVANCETOWN

Where: Hinze Dam Advancetown Lake Range Road Meet at eastern boat ramp Advancetown When: 9am – 12pm Cost: $5.00 A fun day out for Dad and the kids! Take the kids fishing, kayak and snorkel at Wavebreak Island or discover the wetlands of Coombabah in these fun and adventure filled activities just for Dads and their kids. Minimum aged 6 years and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Contact: Bookings required. To book please email bookings@vertecadventure.com.au

16 March

KOALAS ON THE GOLD COAST AT COOMERA

When: 9.30am – 11.30am Why are koalas listed as a vulnerable species throughout South East Queensland? Find out all there is to know about these iconic marsupials and how we can help protect them and their habitat on the Gold Coast. Activity suitable for ages 8 and above.

Please note: Bookings are essential.

Cost: Free Contact: Call (07) 5581 1521 or email namu@goldcoast.qld.gov.au to book your spot.

2 March

PARK FIT - OUTDOOR FITNESS EQUIPMENT

Where: Rotary Park, The Esplanade Burleigh Heads (meet at 1st station southern end of park) When: 9am – 10am Cost: Free Many Gold Coast parks have had fitness equipment installed enabling you to enjoy a free workout. If you would like to learn more about how to use the equipment and to get some tips and workouts from a qualified fitness professional, then come along to one of these free outdoor fitness equipment sessions. Bookings required.

Contact: Fe Taylor Fitness 0407 760 013

10 March

STAND UP PADDLING

Where: Palm Beach Parklands Gold Coast Highway Palm Beach (Map 70 R3) When: Two sessions - 8am & 9.30am This exhilarating activity is taking the Gold Coast by storm. By the end of this workshop you will know how to stand-up paddle and will be well on your way to learning new techniques for paddling and turning. No previous experience needed and children are welcome. Bookings required.

Cost: $10 Contact: 5607 0998

17 – 25 March

NATIONAL PLAYGROUP WEEK

Playgroup Australia organises the annual National Playgroup Week to raise awareness of the importance of play for young children. www.nationalplaygroupweek.com.au

24 March

EASTER CRAFT IN THE PARK AT PARADISE POINT

Where: Paradise Point Parklands The Esplanade Paradise Point When: 10.30am – 12pm Craft in the park are hands on workshops which will allow your kids to express their creativity through a wide range of stimulating, hands-on activities.

Cost: $2.00 Contact: Bookings required. Please email Creative Craft Centre info@creativecraftcentre.com

30 March

EASTER CONCERT AT SOUTHPORT

30 March

EASTER SATURDAY

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Where: The Great Lawn Broadwater Parklands Marine Parade Southport When: 6pm – 9pm This will be a night not to miss, bring your picnic blankets and chairs and let Broadwater Parklands put on a show for you Cost: Free Contact: 1300 366 659

3 March

ROCK CLIMBING AT CURRUMBIN FARM CAMPUS

Where: Currumbin Farm Campus 1226 Currumbin Creek Road Currumbin Valley When: 10am – 2pm Cost: Free.

Get fit and healthy as you attempt to climb our rock climbing tower. Challenge your personal boundaries by climbing as high as you possibly can. Will you make it to the top? All levels catered for. Minimum age ten and enclosed shoes are compulsory. Contact: (07)5533 0312 info@currumbinfarmschool.com.au currumbinfarmschool.eq.edu.au

14 -17 March

WORLD'S GREATEST SHAVE

Leukaemia Foundation.

Every hour somebody in Australia is diagnosed with lymphoma, myeloma or leukaemia. Every second hour, somebody dies from one of these diseases. The World's greatest shave has raised in excess of $120 million since 1998, and uses the raised funds to support patients and families living with these blood disorders. Funds are also used to support blood cancer research to help find better treatments and cures. www.worldsgreatestshave.com/

17 March

LIVE MUSIC IN THE PARK AT MIAMI

Where: Lions Head Park Chairlift Avenue East When: 1pm – 5pm Cost: Free Check out a great line-up of live sounds this weekend at this free concert in the park. Featuring local artists from South East Queensland, this is a great opportunity to get out and support our local music industry. Entertainment is brought to you by JLR Sound / SGC Music Hub. In the event of wet weather visit www.gcparks.com.au or call (07) 5581 7016 for updates. Contact: Parks and Recreational Services (07) 5581 6984

23 March

FAMILY FITNESS AND FUN AT ORMEAU

Where: Landsdowne Park Landsdown Drive, off Upper Coomera Road Ormeau When: 9.30am – 10.30am Cost: $5.00 per family Fitness and fun provide the solution to a busy world and create positive lifestyle behaviours for children.

Each session includes movements and game play that will have you laughing your way to fitness while having fun with the whole family.

Bookings required. Contact: Chisel Fitness Contact Phone: 0439 040 580

From Tuesday 26 March 2013

ROVING EASTER BUNNY

Where: Australia Fair Shopping Centre Time: 11am – 2pm Come and meet the Easter Bunny at Australia Fair Shopping Centre! He will be roving throughout the centre with some yummy Easter treats for you!

Cost: FREE Contact: Katherine Smith ph 5556 6600, www.australiafair.com.au

29 March

GOOD FRIDAY

31 March

LIVE MUSIC IN THE PARK

Easter Concert at Burleigh Where: Memorial Park Cnr The Esplanade & Connor Street When: 1pm – 5pm Cost: Free Check out a great line-up of live sounds this weekend at this free concert in the park. Featuring local artists from South East Queensland, this is a great opportunity to get out and support our local music industry. Entertainment is brought to you by JLR Sound / SGC Music Hub. In the event of wet weather visit www.gcparks.com.au or call (07) 5581 7016 for updates. Contact: Parks and Recreational Services (07) 5581 6984 parks@goldcoast.qld.gov.au

1 April

EASTER MONDAY

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

21

Education

CLASSROOM CALMING: Bringing Meditation to Schools

By Chaley-Ann Scott HERALDED AS A NEW EDUCATIONAL APPROACH, STUDENTS AT SCHOOLS ACROSS THE COUNTRY ARE TRYING HARD TO BE IN THE PRESENT MOMENT. THIS IS WHAT IS KNOWN AS MINDFULNESS TRAINING, A FORM OF MEDITATION IN WHICH STRESS-REDUCING TECHNIQUES DRAWN FROM BUDDHIST MEDITATION ARE WEDGED BETWEEN READING AND SPELLING TESTS.

I

t turns out that stress creates a big barrier to learning, according to cognitive scientists (and, frankly, common sense). So instead, some schools are beginning to promote ‘social and emotional learning’ (or SEL).

Programs involve both primary and high school children being taught to follow their breath with "mindfulness" exercises, which are basically scaled-down, kid-tailored versions of meditation.

Meditation, while common in hospitals, corporations, professional sports and even prisons, is relatively new in the education of children. Growing ever-popular in America, a small but growing number of schools across Australia are slowly embracing the concept. The techniques, among them focused breathing and concentrating on a single object, are loosely adapted from the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn, the molecular biologist who pioneered the secular use of mindfulness at the

University of Massachusetts in 1979 to help medical patients cope with chronic pain, anxiety and depression.

SO WHAT EXACTLY IS INVOLVED? Programs vary, but mostly the aims are to develop what is called "non-judgmental awareness," to begin teaching a child to stay with a thought or feeling while resisting the urge to run away from it (a hard task for an adult – let alone a child). Students continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

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Education

are also taught strategies for "deferred gratification" and "self-regulation" — the psychological terms being used to replace more old-fashioned words like self-control and patience. This occurs, anatomically speaking, in the prefrontal cortex, which is the last portion of the brain to fully develop in humans and often not until well into one's 20s.

Every day students will perform simple exercises, such as ‘magic penny’ or ‘butterfly breathing’.

Basically students calm themselves with simple breathing exercises or through concentration exercises like listening to a bell chime until they can’t hear it anymore.

EXERCISES IN THE CLASSROOM The three meditation-based exercises are typical of those used in participating schools today.

They give students a creative tool which most of them have never used before.

I. MEDITATION BEFORE WRITING. Meditation is a sophisticated practice which requires a long time to master. The better title for this exercise may be “quiet concentration” or “pure thinking.”

EXERCISE: Provide an in-class assignment; it could be a simple description (“What would the ideal classroom look like?”), or a more philosophical question (“What is the right way to discipline young children?”). It could also be a memory question (“What is your earliest memory?”). The question can be tailored to current class work.

"Stress creates a big barrier to learning.

So instead, some schools are beginning to promote 'social and emotional' learning (or SEL)."

Turn the lights off, ask them to silence their electronic devices, tell them to get comfortable, and announce that the meditation will last five minutes.

When the five minutes are up, give them time to write a paragraph on the assigned subject.

You could then ask them to read the paragraphs aloud, but that is not required. Ask them to share their reactions to the meditation process.

It’s a simple exercise, but provides a memorable and often empowering experience for the students.

II. GUIDED MEDITATION. One of the pitfalls of learning is the frequent assumption by students that their view of the world is universally held, such as, “Everyone serves turkey at Christmas,” or “Everyone loves their parents.”

EXERCISE: Ask students to close their eyes. Ask them to breathe comfortably in and out, and then instruct them to relax their feet, ankles, knees, hips, stomach, throat, eyes, etc. Then they are guided in a meditation where they imagine a place. It takes time for images and impressions to develop, but the students are asked to tell the rest of the class what their fence/field/body of water looked like, what they did while they were walking.

The dazzling array of different experiences speaks for itself in demonstrating that no two minds think alike. The point can be underlined by noting that their imaginings proceeded from

different experiences and expectations, and that this diversity should be assumed in every area of the human experience.

III. TALKING STICK: This exercise is based on tribal ceremonies to resolve differences and hash through issues. It can be used in any discipline to dig deep into a specific area of inquiry. It is nonthreatening, egalitarian, and always interesting.

EXERCISE: The teacher must find a “talking stick” of some sort, which is simply an interesting stick. The role of the teacher is to guide the discussion and regulate the timing. The students should understand clearly the issue they are to address. Instruct them to give complete attention to the person holding the Talking Stick – no laughter, no commentary, no questions. Students self-regulate the length of their comments so each participant has time to speak, but the teacher should be ready to cut off a time-hog.

The teacher will also judge how long the sharing should go on, giving each student a chance to speak the same number of times.

The class sits in a circle and the Talking Stick is placed in the middle. The group sits in silence until someone is moved to pick up the stick and share a thought about the subject at hand. He or she speaks for as long as necessary to express his or her thought and then passes the stick to the left. The next person speaks, and passes it to the left, and so on. Students who can’t think of anything to say can pass it without speaking, but the teacher should come back to them later. continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

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Education SCHOOLS USING MEDITATION At Hawthorn's Erasmus School of Primary Education in Victoria, the students sit down twice a day to meditate for ten minutes. The students, parents, and teachers all feel that children are far happier, more relaxed, confident and far less stressed and anxious. Promotions Manager, Ms Brewster says, "By the time they get to grade 5 and 6, they are very connected as a group. They are very bright, very fresh looking - that is what strikes you when you see them. ” Hunter Adams, 10, defined mindfulness as “not hitting someone in the mouth.” “He didn’t know what to do with his energy or how to cope when dealing with frustration with a peer,’ his mother, Patricia Adams, said at a session for parents. “But one day after school he told me, ‘I’m just taking a moment.’ If it works in a child’s mind — with so much going on — there must be something to it.”

At Maharishi School, in Reservoir, transcendental meditation is helping to eliminate stress and fatigue and induce deep rest. The older students have sessions twice a day, and their younger schoolmates do walking meditation. Principal Frances Clarke says the benefits are profound.

"A lot of children come from other schools, particularly boys, because they are struggling in schools due to bullying and they just turn around so quickly," she says.

The USA is leading the way with this approach and a recent study of teenagers by Kaiser Permanente in San Jose, California, found that meditation techniques helped improve mood disorders, depression, and self-harming behaviours like anorexia and bulimia.

CAN I DO IT AT HOME? These meditations are commonly used in the classroom but can be used at home. They included five steps: 1. Relaxing the body 2. Deep breathing 3. Concentration of the mind 4. Expansion of the mind 5. Productive activity 1. RELAXING THE BODY Some stretching or yoga exercises is recommended. After the yoga exercises, have your child tense and relax each body part, starting with the toes and ending with the top of the head.

2. DEEP BREATHING i. Get your child to sit cross legged on cushions, left palm over the right palm

Dr Carr-Gregg says the need to deal with stress and anxiety in children has never been greater.

While youth suicide numbers are declining, more children are suffering from anxiety and depression, often related to the way they relate to their peers. Figures published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show youth suicide numbers dropped from 508 in 1997 to 290 in 2003. Dr Carr-Gregg attributes the decline to school programs such as MindMatters and services such as Kids Help Line and Lifeline.

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

THE TONE OF VOICE TO USE

iv. Practise deep breathing for a few moments a. Breathe in to a count of three, hold the breath and breathe out to a count of three;

BUT DOES IT REALLY WORK OR IS IT JUST A ‘FAD’?

b. As they breathe, you let your child know they are breathing in fresh energy, love, joy and peace. They are entering and spreading throughout their body;

As we have seen, one side says the benefits to children are huge, leading them to have a wellfunctioning "executive function" which is now seen as a net benefit for all concerned — and good for long-term health, too, studies now suggest.

c. As they breathe out, let your child imagine any negative feelings — sadness, boredom, anger or tiredness — coming out through their nose and leaving their body and disappearing

The other side says it is just a ‘new-age’ way to get children to be easier to deal with for teachers – to pacify them, and ‘dumb them down’ in order to turn them into polite creatures ready to learn.

3. CONCENTRATION OF THE MIND This step is focusing the mind at one point.

Encourage your child to visualise a point on their upper lip and concentrate on that point. Draw all the energy and attention into that point while staying very relaxed. Let any stray thoughts or memories pass through, always gently drawing the attention back to the point.

They argue that the real focus should be on progressive educational reform – creating a more child-led approach to education that inspires a true love of learning, ultimately reducing anxiety and stress. Whatever your position, as Camille Hopkins, the Principal of Kaiser Permanente pointed out whilst using the program, “meditation in the classroom can’t do it all”.

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iii. Have your children close their eyes

"It's absolutely superb. What I am finding, though, is it's very much bound by how enthusiastic a teacher is and it doesn't seem to have the leadership," Dr Carr-Gregg says. "I'm not convinced many schools understand how important that material is."

5. PRODUCTIVE ACTIVITY Guide your child to bring their attention slowly back to their body. Feeling all your body parts and slowly wriggling their fingers and toes. Rotating their head. When they are ready, get them to slowly open their eyes. It is now time for the fifth step: grounding the newfound energy, wisdom, insights and heightened awareness into some useful and productive activity. Direct your child to channel this newly focused energy and creativity into dance, art, story writing, music, sharing, discussion, creative communication, awareness game or academic work.

Please remember that when you are speaking, you will do so in a very slow, relaxed voice, pausing to let the scene sink in, so that your child, whose eyes are closed and who is focusing inward, can easily visualise and feel the scene. The way you use your voice is very important. You will find it best to drop your voice by a few tones, speaking more and more and more slowly, with a soothing quality.

ii. Keep the back straight and also relaxed as that will allow a natural flow of energy up and down the spine.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Adolescent psychologist Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, a consultant to the Victorian Association of State Secondary Principals (VASSP), is an enthusiastic ambassador of the existing MindMatters program - a "whole-school" approach to mental health promotion and suicide prevention in high schools, which includes using meditation in the classroom.

they are ready for the fourth step: true meditation – turning inside for their own answers and wisdom. Guide your child to expand their imagination and awareness through guided imagery.

By using guided imagery, the child will learn to see themselves on a movie screen in their minds as a caring, loving, patient etc. person. This will aid them to perform better as a human being as their thoughts are slowly being transformed into wholesome and positive ones.

4. EXPANSION OF THE MIND Once your child’s emotions and minds are quiet,

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Babies

signs to take seriously: SERIOUS HEALTH PROBLEMS IN NEWBORN BABIES

by Dr Julian Paxton

F

or parents, especially first time parents, there are few more exciting, and sometimes daunting, moments than taking baby home. Most babies make the transition smoothly, but occasionally babies become unwell. It is always challenging for parents to distinguish between normal and minor baby ailments, and signs of serious illness.

Babies leaving hospital have generally been examined by a doctor trained in newborn health. The recommended standard is two such examinations before discharge. These checks are extremely important and rule out many problems which could make a baby unwell further down the track.

Whether breast or bottle fed, all parents should leave hospital confident their baby is feeding well, and have reliable telephone support available, should they have concerns.

It is important that families with newborn babies have a family GP, and access to their advice and

assistance should they be concerned. It is worthwhile establishing a strong relationship with your GP before baby is born.

brothers and sisters, either at school or in day care. This is sometimes called the “second child syndrome”.

As a parent you will learn to know your child, and will be able to detect quite subtle alterations in behaviour which may hint that baby is becoming unwell. Of course, most of these changes won't be an indication of serious illness but if symptoms are deteriorating or sustained, seek help through your doctor or your local hospital emergency department. Parental instincts are strong and usually reliable. If you are concerned, seek help.

More serious infections can occur, and can be difficult to distinguish from minor infection in the early stages of illness.

To confirm fever reliably and safely, every family needs a thermometer.

The most reliable way to check for a temperature is with a digital thermometer, placed in the armpit and held there for around a minute. A temperature of above 37.5 C represents a fever. Seek help.

There are a number of symptoms a baby can develop which raise concern about possible serious illness.

Much less common is a low temperature; a temperature of under 36.0 C may also be of concern.

FEVER:

VOMITING:

Fever in babies almost always means infection.

The most common infections are viral infections, particularly the common cold. Babies are more susceptible to viral infections if they have older

Most babies vomit, and often healthy babies vomit or spill quite frequently. If baby is settled and gaining weight, their vomiting is unlikely to be any concern. continued on next page...

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

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Babies Vomiting bile is uncommon but can be a sign of a blocked bowel. Bile in the vomit looks bright yellow or green. If this problem is present seek help urgently.

Vomiting blood is common in breast fed babies and often comes from cracked nipples. While this is of obvious concern to mum, it generally isn't a problem for baby. Of course, if baby otherwise seems unwell, seek help.

Occasionally babies regurgitate frequently, and are very unsettled and distressed. This may be a sign of GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease), a problem which generally responds well to medical treatment.

Less common is pyloric stenosis, a condition in which the outlet from the stomach becomes thickened and progressively blocked. This illness generally occurs around 6 weeks of age, and these babies vomit with increasing frequency and volume, with their vomiting becoming very forceful or “projectile”. Surgical treatment is very successful.

POOR FEEDING: Babies are voracious feeders. As a rough guide, healthy babies double their weight in their first 4-5 months, and such rapid weight gain requires sustained, frequent feeding. Milk in, urine out; high fluid intake means high output, so most babies wet nappies at least 6 times per day.

It is very sensible to have your baby weighed at regular intervals; good weight gain confirms good intake of milk.

When babies become unwell, they often start feeding poorly and this change can happen suddenly.

With decreased milk intake, nappies become wet less often and wet nappies are not so heavy, meaning urine volume is less. So if baby is much less interested in feeding, and passing less urine, this may be a warning sign. Seek medical help.

ALERTNESS OR IRRITABILITY: If a baby is suddenly less alert, floppy, uninterested in feeding, displaying less spontaneous movement and becomes difficult to rouse, this may be a sign of serious illness.

bilirubin. Jaundice is very common in newborn babies and sometimes needs treatment in the first days of life, before discharge from hospital.

problems in young babies and may need medical attention but these issues do not require immediate attention.

Jaundice sometimes persists or appears after discharge. Most often this problem is innocent, and associated with breast feeding (“breast milk jaundice”). Another common cause is poor intake of milk, and poor weight gain.

Deep red or purple spots, appearing suddenly, that don't disappear with pressure may mean meningococcal infection. Don't mess around.

Seek help urgently.

There are serious but much less common causes of persistent jaundice in babies, so if baby at 3-4 weeks of age has persistent jaundice, seek medical advice.

If skin is very pale, mottled, or blue and baby displays other signs mentioned above, seek help. It is difficult to determine colour in a dark room – if worried, turn on the light!

BREATHING DIFFICULTY:

SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME (SIDS):

Minor concerns about breathing are common.

Babies with narrow nostrils need to breathe through their noses when feeding. These babies are often “snuffly”, but if they are feeding well this is probably of no concern.

The term SIDS strikes fear into the hearts of most parents. There are no “warning signs”, but it is important that SIDS awareness remains high and parents are aware of proven methods to minimize risk.

Period breathing is an irregular breathing pattern seen in healthy babies when asleep. These children have erratic breathing patterns, panting, pausing, and sighing. This pattern is normal and is not of any concern if baby doesn't display any other sign of illness.

The good news is that the rate of SIDS has reduced by over 80% in the last 20 years, primarily due to the promotion of safe sleeping practices in babies. Follow the check list below to protect your baby:

Many babies also have a “rattle” in their throats, especially when lying asleep on their backs; this can occasionally lead to choking spells but is rarely of concern.

Sustained rapid breathing is a sign of breathing difficulty; more than 60 breaths in a minute makes serious illness more likely. If unsure, count how many times baby breathes in a minute using a watch or timer.

When babies have serious breathing difficulty their breast bone (sternum) and ribs often suck in markedly with each breath, and the nostrils may flare. A grunting noise with each breath is also a reliable sign of breathing difficulty.

Illnesses like croup and bronchiolitis are common, caused by viral infection, and more frequent in the winter months. They can present with fever, breathing difficulty, noisy breathing and poor feeding. Seek help.

• Babies must sleep on their backs. Some babies may seem to sleep more comfortably on their tummy or side, but these postures increase the risk of SIDS alarmingly – don't do it!!

• Use bedding that minimizes the risk of babies face being accidentally covered. Accidental smothering with a sheet or blanket over the face is a common finding in SIDS cases.

• Don't smoke, and certainly don't smoke around children.

• Room sharing with parents (not with other children) for the first 6-12 months reduces SIDS risk.

• Make sure cots and mattresses are safe.

• Sleeping with baby in bed (or on the couch) is unsafe.

FINALLY: Serious illness can affect babies but these illnesses are uncommon. Parents of new babies are prone to worry but don't let this spoil your enjoyment of parenting. The problems described above may suggest serious illness in a baby.

If you are worried, seek help.

Similarly, a baby who is uncharacteristically agitated, irritable and unsettled may be significantly unwell.

SKIN RASHES:

JAUNDICE:

Many babies develop pimply spots on their face, and upper chest in the first few weeks. Often called neonatal acne, this condition is common and settles; it is not a cause of concern.

Jaundice is a yellow discolouration of the skin, caused by the accumulation of a chemical called

Nappy rashes and eczema are also common

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dr Julian Paxton is a specialist Paediatrician.

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J

ordyn, who attended St Stephen's College Coomera, enjoyed a successful three-month US tour last year which included opening for a sell-out crowd at a NASCAR event and playing before 10,000 people at a music festival. She’s already used to a hectic schedule with her time split between dance, singing, performing, soccer and even acrobatics.

Jordyn started singing when she was 8 years old and wrote her first song at the age of 10, after coming back from volunteering at an orphanage in Cambodia. Her musical style is a Pop / Country crossover. She explains, "I love country music, it's very homely - and the modern pop appeals to this generation." She has been influenced by Katy Perry, Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood.

GOALS She is certain to inspire others with her focus and determination. She has bold plans and is actively working towards her goals. Jordyn shares, “My goal for this year is to complete my first Album titled ‘Sing’, learn to play drums, guitar & be accomplished on piano/keys, write a novel & learn the philosophies of fashion design as well as overcome my fears of bugs.” Most of us would be tested just working on a few of these!

As Jordyn explains, having the support of family and friends makes everything a little easier and a whole lot more fun. “It is really great that I have supportive parents, family and friends who back me 100% on this journey. I have a 15 year old big sister Erinn who is a beautiful contemporary dancer and is going on Rotary Youth Exchange to the US this year. I will miss her a lot.”

So what does a 12 year old with the world at her feet do with her spare time? “I have my dog Ranger who is a big cuddle bug whom I miss when I am away travelling. I love to read & write novels, fashion designing, SIMs, movies, going to the beach & hanging with friends.”

Shooting for the stars GOLD COAST’S JORDYN YARKER

By Jackie Goldston GOLD COAST 12 YEAR OLD JORDYN YARKER WANTS TO SEE HER NAME UP IN LIGHTS AND IS WORKING HARD SINGING, DANCING AND ACTING WITH THE WORLD STAGE IN HER SIGHTS. THIS MONTH SHE IS HEADING TO THE USA TO MEET WITH DISNEY & NICKELODEON AND HAS RECENTLY RELEASED HER FIRST SINGLE, “SING”.

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

MAKING A DIFFERENCE Jordyn is also passionate about volunteering and working for charities close to her heart, “I have amazing role models in my grandparents who are wonderful humanitarians and I have been brought up all my life being involved with volunteer and charitable events.” One of the most defining moments of her life so far was the day she visited the children and families living on the dump site in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This has shaped the direction of her charity work.

“It is my goal with the assistance of New Hope Cambodia and Rotary International to be able to move the children and families off the dump site, to buy land, build suitable housing, educate them on farming and provide them with bikes so that they can get medical care and schooling. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Calisthenics is one of the fastest growing artistic sports – unique to Australia.

Calisthenics can be categorised as sport and art. As a sport it encourages physical development, coordination, self-discipline and team spirit. As an Art it develops an appreciation of music and rhythm, the beauty of line and the excitement of presenting on stage. The word calisthenics comes from the Greek words ‘kallos’ for beauty and ‘thenos’ for strength. Indeed, the components of the sport aim at achieving those physical attributes, but the sport also influences the emotional and social development of girls and boys through friendship and teamwork.

Calisthenics, as we know it today, involves a team of pupils learning routines choreographed to music, each of about three to four minutes duration, and presenting those routines at competitions. Pupils learn approximately six routines concurrently throughout a year and this is where the diversity of the sport is seen. Calisthenics participants perform a number of different items at each competition. Depending on the age group, participants may rehearse and perform figure march, free exercises, folk dance, rhythmic, action song, calisthenic revue or use clubs or rods.

There are different levels of Calisthenics; some clubs have non-competitive classes, performing only at their annual concert. Other teams compete during the year at a number of competitions, performing on stage in costumes. Queensland also has a State Representative Team that competes at the Australian National Championships. Calisthenics classes and teams are broken up into the age groups and start from the age of 3 years through to Masters age groups.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

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Profile

“I also have a key that I wear around my neck that reminds me that I can unlock doors, yet always remain a kid and don’t take it too seriously as it’s a long road.”

I donated $1500 of my money to buy swings and playground equipment for the kids at New Hope Cambodia. It makes them smile every-day when playing on the equipment.”

I am being home schooled and can focus on core subjects. It is a balancing act and my parents help me schedule my time. Being organised is very important as things can change very quickly.”

She continues, “Everyone can make a difference, you have to give back, you can’t just take from this world. It is important to remain grounded as it is a constant reminder that there are so many less fortunate people out there with far bigger problems and in desperate need of help. My song & Video film clip ‘Never Gonna Walk Away’ is a constant reminder.”

So with such a tight schedule, what does a typical day now look like for Jordyn?

• Awake at around 8am • School 9-11am • Piano/Keys/Music & Drum Practice 11.30-1.00pm • Vocal Training 2.00 – 3.00pm • Performance Training 3.00 – 3.30pm • Acting Training 5-6 • Dance Lesson 6.30 – 7.30pm • Relax Dinner/ TV / Youtube 8-9.30 • Read 9.30 – 10.00 • Bed 10.30

ACTING Not content to just take the music world by storm, last month Jordyn was involved in the movie, Rise Of The Underdog, a true story written and directed by Mack Lindon. How did a then 11 year old become involved in such an exciting local film?

She shares, “I performed one evening at the Gold Coast Indie Film & TV Network after just getting back from the US and Mack was in the audience and came up to me and asked if I would like to be in the film. The cast and crew were amazing with such wonderful locations set through-out the Gold Coast and Brisbane. I acted alongside Cameron Caulfield. My part was set in a monastery amongst the giant roots of a 100 year old fig tree.”

BALANCING ACT Balancing schooling around performance commitments is a challenge which Jordyn, her teachers and family work on as a team. As Jordyn explains, “The last semester of 2012 I missed 89 days of school and it has been very difficult to balance both; but they are equally as important. I was very fortunate in my first big trip to the US that I had an amazing, committed teacher, Ms Anne Trethewey.

She helped to set a curriculum that fitted in with my heavy workload and travel schedule. This year

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

Jordyn explains, “If I am performing I don’t usually get home until very late which can throw out my program and when filming lots of early 5am starts.”

TRAVEL This month Jordyn will be meeting with her acting manager in LA. He has shown enormous support and belief in the talented youngster and is assisting with her US Work visa application. She shares, “He has organised further meetings with Disney and Nickelodeon, as well as Emmy Award winning casting director April Webster, film and TV producers and music managers. I am planning to be away for 3 months; however if my work visa comes through earlier it will be for a longer period.

I will spend around 8-9 months of the year in the US, although Australia will always be my home,” explains the enthusiastic tween.

INSPIRATION “Commit and never give up. It is very tough at times, lonely and a lot of hard work.” These are wise words from someone so young. Through her

experiences, Jordyn is able start offering words of support and advice to those who would like to follow in her footsteps.

It is not all glamour and fun. Just like most tweens she has tough times and misses her friends. “You can feel left out sometimes and sad because your friends in Australia aren’t able to keep in contact on a regular basis due to the different time zones and my work schedule. It’s a difficult emotion to deal with as they feel I have forgotten about them or have made new friends, moved on. I really love it when my great friends support me no matter what. There are times when you feel so tired and scared and you just want to give up.”

So how does she remain grounded? “This is a massive TEAM effort and so many people who believe in me have jumped on-board my bus and we are all sharing this wonderful experience together and I am forever grateful.

I also have a key that I wear around my neck that reminds me that I can unlock doors, yet always remain a kid and don’t take it to seriously as it’s a long road.”

For more information about Jordyn Yarker or to follow her journey, visit her website www.jordynyarker.com

The Gold Coast has some incredible talent and companies such as Fretfest Pty Ltd and vocal coaches such as Tiffani Wood can help to cater to the needs of singer songwriters at every level of development, from emerging amateur to professional artist. Visit www.fretfest.com or www. tiffaniwood.com for more information. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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GOOD health

AUTISM IMAGINE WAKING UP IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY. YOU DON’T HAVE A PASSPORT, YOU’RE UNABLE TO SPEAK THE LANGUAGE AND YOU HAVE NO WAY OF EASILY COMMUNICATING WITH THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU. NOW IMAGINE THEY ALL HAVE A DIFFERENT SET OF SOCIAL CUES, RULES AND ETIQUETTE. TO VARYING DEGREES, THIS CAN HELP EXPLAIN HOW A CHILD WITH AUTISM EXPERIENCES THEIR SURROUNDINGS EVERY DAY.

By Deborah Whiteoak, AEIOU Foundation

C

hildren with autism have difficulties with communication, social interaction, fine and gross motor skills, repetitive behaviour and routines and may also experience sensory issues. As a result, they have to work harder to achieve the milestones many others take for granted.

AEIOU Foundation CEO Alan Smith explains autism isn’t rare. It affects more than 1 in 160 people in Australia, and up to one in 88 internationally.

This makes autism more prevalent than childhood cancer, diabetes and HIV infection combined, and twice as prevalent as cerebral palsy.

“Every person with autism is different, but many families can relate to the analogy of living inside a bubble, being separated by the world by an invisible barrier. AEIOU aims to break that bubble, by providing a full-time and part-time early intervention program which follows the 2012 Australian Good Practice Guidelines,” Mr Smith says.

AEIOU Foundation’s program is unique and has emerged as one of Australia’s leading services for children aged 2 ½ to 6 who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

“The Foundation is now in its seventh year of operations and provides vital support to more than 200 children and their families across Queensland every year.” AEIOU operates nine centres, in Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Townsville, Bundaberg and Hervey Bay. “Plans are underway to establish a custom-

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

built centre at the Gold Coast but in the meantime, we run the program from two classrooms in an Ashmore childcare centre,” Mr Smith said.

“Children with autism learn, think and process their environment differently. They may have trouble with processing and distinguishing different noises around them, and sudden noises, bright lights or changes to a routine can be overwhelming.”

Gold Coast Mum Roxanne says her son Kobe was two years old when he was diagnosed with autism, and feels the opening of AEIOU Foundation’s service at the Gold Coast in late 2010 felt like her family was being given the chance they desperately needed. Roxanne says it meant she knew Kobe would get the right support to become everything he could be in life. “I had been watching him very closely since he was born as Kobe’s older sister also has autism. This time around I was a lot more prepared in terms of which steps to take next, however, it was still devastating news for my husband and I knowing what was to come.”

Mr Smith says many don’t realise how brave children with autism are, striving each day to understand and overcome fears of experiences or environments that can be frightening to them. “It can be something as simple as being afraid to have a haircut, go to the dentist, have a bath, or eating certain foods. The problem worsens when

that child can’t express their feelings, or understand what’s happening around them. Teaching children to communicate is therefore integral to the program, whether that’s through sign, PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), language or another method.”

Mr Smith explains autism affects the whole family, with social, financial, vocational and sibling disadvantages a real issue. “At AEIOU, we try to support families during this crucial time of diagnosis and early intervention, but we also know that autism is a lifelong condition and families need access to resources and support throughout their entire journey,” Mr Smith said.

Each child is unique, and so is each family’s experience.

Tuesday 2 April 2012 marks International Autism Awareness Day (http://www.autismawareness. com.au ), with the entire month of April dedicated to awareness activities. AEIOU will join the global ‘Light it up Blue’ campaign and is hosting a special family carnival, ‘Bubble Day’ in Brisbane to help raise funds and awareness for children with ASD. For information about how you can join the event, or for details about the AEIOU program go to www.aeiou.org.au. More information will also be available about events on the Gold Coast on the Kids on the Coast website.

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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visit goodstart.org.au FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

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LETS celebrate

SLUMBER PARTY POLITICS WITH SOME PARENTS BANNING SLEEPOVERS ALTOGETHER, HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT HAVING A “SAFE” SLUMBER PARTY?

By Jackie Goldston

T

here are many things to consider, the first being at what age are you comfortable to host a sleepover party? This is something that you need to decide for yourself; however our Facebook readers all seemed to agree that younger than 7 years old is too young and that it becomes more challenging over the age of 14.

Some tips to help make a slumber party run smoother include:

3. Keep it to a single sex party – don’t make it any harder than it needs to be!

phones, iPods and agree if they are allowed or need to be handed over on arrival

4. Have a contact number for the parents for the actual night of the party (not just a home number in case they are going out, for example to dinner)

9. Set clear rules: include no nastiness or straight home. If a child misbehaves repeatedly, their parents will be called and they will be asked to go home.

5. Don’t use bunk beds; look at mattresses on the ground if possible.

10. Have a comprehensive first aid kit on hand – just in case.

6. Agree on a bedtime well before the party starts.

1. Make sure you know the parents of all of the children coming to the party.

2. Discuss with your child each of the children they want to invite and keep it small.

7. Ensure you have plenty of DVDs/ movies available suitable for the age group

11. Do not drink any alcohol and don’t try and be a kid yourself – it is important to remain the responsible adult at all times.

8. Check with the other parents and establish your comfort with internet access, mobile

12. Ensure you are well rested as it is unlikely you will get much sleep on the night.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE? SHARE WITH US ON OUR WEBSITE OR FACEBOOK. 38

Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

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Have you visited us lately? www.kidsonthecoast.com.au • New articles and blogs • What's on Calendar • Extended stories and article discussions • Competitions • Book and product reviews • News for the Gold Coast • Sign up for our newsletter to keep in the loop!

Jump online to see our new makeover!

In our next Issue www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

• Constantly plugged in • Education in the kitchen • Fit kids • Mummy guilt • Natural skin care & beauty products • Height & growth • Escape to Melbourne • Christening, naming and birth celebrations

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

39

holidays

By Jackie Goldston

Sydney Family Escape A HOLIDAY IN SYDNEY IS A FANTASTIC ADVENTURE FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES. WITH SO MUCH TO DO, SEE AND EXPLORE, YOU CAN SPEND WEEKS AND STILL HAVE SO MUCH MORE IN YOUR BUCKET LIST FOR FUTURE VISITS.

F

rom surfing to horse riding, kayaking to wildlife parks and aquariums, it’s all there in Sydney. Keeping the kids entertained is not hard to do. Keep an eye out for the second part of our holiday feature on Sydney later in 2013 and of course make sure you visit our website for more information and ideas for exploring Sydney.

KIDS IN THE HOUSE: OPERA HOUSE What trip to Sydney would be complete without a trip to the Sydney Opera House. No longer just for adults, the Opera House now hosts Kids at the House, a year-long program of theatre, music, puppetry, dance and creative play for children aged 2 – 15 years. Highlights for 2012 include The Cat in the Hat (January), Babies Proms, the long-running music concerts for toddlers (March): Meeting Mozart, Swing Baby, Swing!, Ole! and The Nutcracker; as well as Wulamanayuwi and the Seven Pamanui, which uses the language and rhyme of the Tiwi Islands to tell the story of a young girl and her experiences with the spiritbeings of a mystical, Dreamtime land.

Want to see more of the Opera House? Don't miss the adventure of a special kids discovery tour available every school holidays and discover a House of fun, magic and history - go underneath the sails, watch clips from the favourite Kids at the House shows, uncover the story behind the building's creation and explore the theatres where the magic happens. For more information on the other events during 2013 visit the Kids on the Coast website or www.sydneyoperahouse.com .

SEA LIFE SYDNEY AQUARIUM Take your kids on a journey of discovery through 14 themed areas at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium in-

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Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

cluding the Shark Walk, the Tropical Bay of Rays, Discovery Rockpool, Mangrove Swamps, South Coast Shipwreck and the new ocean tunnel walk-through, Shark Valley. Both kids and parents alike will have the chance to face their fear on the new Shark Walk and walk over a huge variety of sharks, before journeying deep under the sea and exploring the depths of Shark Valley – home to a giant whale skeleton and the tumbled-down ruins of an ancient Lost City temple. The new Dugong Island is home to 2 of only 6 dugongs on display in the whole world. Dugongs are truly one of the oceans’ most unique and mystical animals – you can see the male dugong ‘Pig’ and female ‘Wuru’ from both above and below in Dugong Island. For more info visit www.sydneyaquarium. com.au or call 8251 7800

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM The Powerhouse Museum is located in Ultimo near Darling Harbour, Sydney. Its unique and diverse collection spans history, science, technology, design, industry, decorative arts, music, transport and space exploration. With an ever-changing program of temporary displays complementing a range of permanent exhibitions. Learning and creativity are a strong focus of the Museum.

Exhibitions and programs are based on the ideas and technologies that have changed our world, and the stories of the people who create and inspire them. Zero Gravity Space Lab is often a favourite with the kids. Find out what it is like to live and work in the weightless environment of space, how astronauts eat, sleep and go to the bathroom – as well as experience the illusion of weightlessness.

The original Powerhouse presents a magnificent backdrop to the Museum's vast and diverse collection - from planes, trains and steam engines to fashion, furniture, design and technological and scientific innovations with something for all ages.

For more information visit www.powerhousemuseum.com

EXPLORE THE INNER WEST Catch the light rail from Darling Harbour or the city and enjoy a picnic at Bicentennial Park looking back across at the city, Anzac and Harbour Bridges. It is a huge park with shaded BBQ areas, bike paths, boardwalks and two excellent children’s playgrounds. If you are feeling energetic, you can then walk up the Glebe Point Road to the heart of Glebe and enjoy the eclectic cafes, boutiques and some of the best book shops in Sydney. If you are there on a Saturday, make sure you visit Glebe Markets, one of Sydney's most established and well known Saturday markets, which has always had an alternative character and style (10am – 4pm; www.glebemarkets.com.au).

While you are visiting the Inner West, why not pop over to Leichhardt and check out the Italian heart of Sydney. Leichhardt offers nearly 100 Italian restaurants and cafes to choose from (with most on Norton Street), some fantastic coffee houses and some excellent boutique shopping. The area is very family friendly with almost all of the restaurants welcoming children.

For more ideas of where to visit in Sydney make sure you visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au. We would also love to hear about your favourite holiday destinations!

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Yearning for some quality family time?

In our overly hectic lives, we often yearn to slow down, reconnect with the kids and live a life less complicated. Especially in summer when the beaches are packed with tourists and the crowds are unrelenting. It might not be possible to run for the hills permanently, but at Cedar Glen Farmstay it’s possible to escape for a little while.

Cedar Glen has been in the Stephen’s family since 1882. Located at the foot of World Heritage Lamington National Park, this spectacular 1050 acre property is home to beef cattle, Arabian horses, milking cows, sheep, pigs and poultry. With private swimming holes, shady 100-year-old trees and cool summer breezes, Spring and Summer are great times to visit. Imagine the kids’ excitement as they get to feed the animals twice daily, or try their hand at milking the house cow each morning.

FEBRUARY SPECIALS

Escape to

A real highlight of Cedar Glen is the activities they have to offer. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a horse ride through some of South East Qld’s most spectacular country – riders of all ages and experience are catered for.

You can also learn how to throw a returning boomerang and crack the Australian stock whip while enjoying a cup of billy tea and freshly made damper.

Guests can stay in the stately 1901 homestead, or choose one of three historic cottages which have been renovated to maintain the charm and authenticity of a bygone era. All buildings are surrounded by wide breezy verandas perfect for a summer siesta. Mums in particular will love the optional fully catered holiday.

Imagine leaving even the cooking behind!

Contact us now for great rates on your Spring or Summer getaway

stay@cedarglen.com.au | (07) 5544 8170 | www.cedarglen.com.au Lost World Valley, Qld

If watching Discovery channel is the closest you’ve been to nature in a while, do something for yourself and the kids, and visit Cedar Glen Farmstay.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 – Kids on the Coast

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Books APPS Movies

REVIEWS Do your ears hang low

BOOKS

Sung by The Topp Twins, Pictures by Jenny Cooper, Scholastic NZ, RRP $16.99 A sweet mouse dances its’ way through this fun-filled, whimsical rhyme with engaging illustrations and a bonus CD featuring The Topp Twins.

The book will have children wagging their ears to and fro and coming back for more! Chosen by Freya (4) for girls and boys from 0 – 6 years.

Wish You Were Here: Sunshine Coast

by Frank Scrivano & Leroy Sams, Hulabalula RRP $24.95 The durable, large format, beautiful picture book features no text and instead focuses on highly detailed, multilayered illustrations in various Sunshine Coast locations. Rather than dictating the story, the Wish You Were Here picture book concept encourages the reader to create their own narratives and follow the characters within each double page spread through a range of iconic Sunshine Coast environments. Suitable for Boys and girls of all ages from www.hulabalula.com.au

BOOKS MOVIES: FOR ADULTS

MOVIES: FOR TEENS Beautiful Creatures Rated: TBC In Cinemas February 14 Supernatural teen romance based on the best-selling fantasy novel, co-starring Oscar veterans Emma Thompson, Jeremy Irons and Viola Davis. Set in the gothic American South, the film tells the tale of two star-crossed lovers: Ethan (Alden Ehrenreich), who longs to escape his small town, and Lena (Alice Englert), a mysterious new girl. Together, they uncover dark, black magic secrets about their respective families and their town. The book is the first of the Caster Chronicles series, named by MTV News as one of 2010's 'series to watch'.

WEBSITE

Minimohs.com.au MiniMoh’s Online Marketplace is a purpose-built online marketplace for babies’, children’s and mums’ clothing and products that are handmade, new or pre-loved. MiniMoh’s is a collective consisting of independent shop owners, designers and small business entrepreneurs showcasing their goods.

It offers a great opportunity for many work-at-home mums to utilise this new avenue to earn a living.

The Impossible Rated: TBC In Cinemas: January 24 An affecting and powerful natural disaster drama starring Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor, based on the true story of one family’s harrowing experience of the Indian Ocean tsunami that struck on Boxing Day 2004 and ultimately claimed 230,000 lives. From the director of The Orphanage.

KID’S (AND ADULT'S) APP

Angry Birds Star Wars (Free on Android; iPad/ iPod/ iPhone $0.99) I am sorry. I wasn’t going to review this app – but in the end I felt that I had to as it is so much fun for Star Wars fans and Angry Bird fans alike. It is very well done and like all Angry Bird apps, does involve problem solving and patience. Rated 4+

To see more visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au 42

Kids on the Coast – FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013

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