Kids on the Coast Magazine - Gold Coast - Issue 51. June/July 2014

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ISSUE 51 June/July/August 2014 GOLD COAST

DOWN WITH GI ANXIOUS CHILDREN ART: MAKING THE MAKING NAPPY REVOLUTION

Being l u f i t Beau PLUS

WHAT'S ON CALENDAR + LOTS MORE

Find us on Social Media or visit pacificfair.com.au

School Holidays at Pacific Fair Looking for the best School Holiday entertainment on the Gold Coast? Look no further than Pacific Fair! With activities, shows and giveaways, you won’t want to miss out!

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51 Contents ISSUE

June/July/August 2014

Clothes from Junior Bardot

Lucas, 2

4 6 8

FROM THE EDITOR THE SOCIAL GATHERING WHAT’S NEWS

10 FEATURE: Being Beautiful 15 CHECK THIS OUT 16 EDUCATION: Art – Making the making 18 CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Find out what’s happening on the Coast during June & July 24 THE ‘P’ FILES: Managing Anxiety 28 BABIES ON THE COAST: Nappy revolution 34 ONLY NATURAL: Down with GI 38 GOOD HEALTH: Breast Screening 41 COAST LIFE 42 REVIEWS

Hugo, 18mths

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: JUSTINE STEWART, DR KELLY BOWERS, KAREN BURTON, RACHEL DOWNIE, NADIA WOODS, ALENEY DE WINTER, KATIE CLIFT COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: VERVE PORTRAITS

Printed with vegetable/soy based inks on paper supplied using pulp sourced from sustainable forests and manufactured to environmentally accredited systems.

WE ENCOURAGE RECYCLING. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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mother

WELCOME

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kids on the coast | in th

Jackie, Kellie and Toni at our recent tenth birthday celebrations.

MEDIA PUBLISHED BY Mother Goose Media PTY LTD PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562 PHONE: 1300 430 320 FAX: 07 5442 7253 ABN: 86 473 357 391 WEB: www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

EDITORIAL / PRODUCTION PUBLISHER: Toni Eggleston ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Simone Bell EDITOR: Jackie Goldston ADMINISTRATION: Kellie Kruger admin@kidsonthecoast.com.au PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT: production@kidsonthecoast.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGN: Michelle Craik & Alana Falk PRINTING: Print Works, 07 3865 4433

It always seems to come as a shock when it starts to get cold. We have been particularly lucky here on the Coast with what has felt like a beautiful long summer this year. Over the past few years I have started packing the kids’ seasonal clothes that I think will fit them the next year into storage; however I always leave bringing out the winter clothes until I really need to and get caught out on the first cold night trying to find something that doesn’t smell dusty! I had promised myself that I would wash the winter clothes early this year and of course that didn’t happen – so I am already planning to be better organised on the return to warm weather… I would love to hear about how you keep your kids’ clothes organised – let me know on Facebook, our website or email.

This issue of Kids on the Coast magazine covers a diverse range of topics which will hopefully give you something to ponder, may challenge you or maybe even remind you to look after yourself. Our feature article examines what it means to be beautiful: how this impacts a child’s self-esteem and development. We also delve into the importance of art in education and why it does more than stimulate creativity, as well as investigate the different types of childhood anxiety and some strategies to assist parents.

Have you missed an issue of Kids on the Coast magazine? All of our articles are online and you can comment and discuss the topics on our website or Facebook page. We add topical news stories daily as well as blogs, new articles and movie, product, app and book reviews. Do you have something that you want to share? Please feel free to contact me via Facebook.com/kidsonthecoast, our website or email. Don’t forget to sign up for our What’s On eNews that comes out weekly at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au.

Jackie Goldston Editor

All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications 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.

DISTRIBUTION Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across South East Queensland.

Kids on the Coast (Gold Coast edition) is a free publication circulating over 18,000 copies from Tweed Heads to Coomera, including Hinterland.

Separate editions cover Sunshine Coast and Brisbane.

Kids on the Coast (Sunshine Coast edition) is a free publication circulating over 20,000 copies from Caloundra to Noosa, including hinterland.

Kids in the City (Brisbane edition) is a free publication circulating over 20,000 copies from North Lakes to Springwood and covering all suburbs to Jindalee.

For distribution enquiries phone: 1300 430 320 or email: admin@kidsonthecoast.com.au

ADVERTISING Call 1300 430 320 or email your Sales Account Manager.

GOLD COAST Louisa - gc@kidsonthecoast.com.au

Behind the scenes…at our cover shoot

SUNSHINE COAST Renee - advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au BRISBANE Joanne - advertising@kidsinthecitymagazine.com.au

Hugo leads the way!

Lucas ....

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The Kids on the Coast community expands well beyond our magazine. Last month we celebrated our 10th birthday for our Kids on the Coast magazine. Our online community across South East Queensland helped us celebrate through our giant 10 Days competition and received a special VIP invite to our party.

Every day we are having interesting, challenging and sometimes outright silly conversations on Facebook. Our readers can discuss anything from parking experiences at school to recipe ideas or simply share a moment or meme that has made their day special. Check out crafty ideas or party inspiration on Pinterest. Our website is jammed full of articles and blogs, with news and stories added every day. Join with us online – we are more than a magazine!

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Whatsnews DID

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

Visit our website for more news, www.kidsonthecoast.com.au/news

SMOKE FREE SPACES

Almost one Queenslander will die every day from inhaling tobacco smoke, without ever having smoked a cigarette in their life. Cancer Council Queensland has renewed its call for the State Government to fast-track new laws creating designated smoke free public spaces across the state – to save Queensland lives. The call follows the announcement last month by Health Minister Lawrence Springborg of a ban on smoking at school gates and within five metres of all hospitals.

Cancer Council Queensland CEO Professor Jeff Dunn said “Smoke free spaces will protect people from the harmful effects of smoking, encourage more smokers to quit, and prevent more young people from taking up this lethal habit. We urgently need statewide smoke free places at bus stops, taxi ranks, ferry terminals, and pedestrian malls. There is no safe level of smoking or passive smoking.”

What do you think? Is this removing people's freedom of choice or is it a step in the right direction to protect our health and that of our children? Visit us at Facebook/ kidsonthecoastgoldcoast or kidsonthecoast. com.au/news to join the conversation.

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

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Twenty thousand men took 22 years to build the Taj Mahal.

It’s estimated around 3000 Queenslanders will die from a tobacco-related disease each year. About 300 of these deaths are caused by second-hand smoke exposure. Smokers can obtain free information, practical assistance and support from Quitline, 13 QUIT (13 7848), or join the QUEST to quit at www.quest.org.au.

Community

Neither EMUS nor KANGAROOS can walk BACKWARDS.

Image: Hypnobirthing Australia CEO Melissa Spilsted (left) with son Darcy (4yrs) and Gay Parents Australia CEO, Rebecca Madsen (right) with daughter Poppy (11mths)

MUMPRENEURS TEAM UP TO SERVE UP TO 800 THOUSAND GAY AND LESBIAN PARENTS Gold Coast mumpreneur businesses Hypnobirthing Australia, a nation-wide childbirth and antenatal provider, and Gay Parents Australia, a new national online network for gay and lesbian parents, have teamed up in an Australia-first partnership that will benefit up to 800 thousand gay and lesbian parents nationally. Gay Parents Australia CEO, Rebecca Madsen, said that gay and lesbian parents are just like other parents in many ways, but they do have unique requirements when it comes to things like fertility services, maternal health services, family law and estate planning, education, lifestyle and family-friendly leisure activities. Hypnobirthing Australia CEO Melissa Spilsted jumped at the opportunity to provide her childbirth education classes to expectant gay and lesbian parents by being the first business to connect with Gay Parents Australia as a partner. Ms Madsen said. ‘There are literally hundreds of support groups, networking associations and brands madly competing for the attention of heterosexual mums across Australia, but those specifically servicing lesbian mums and gay dads on a national scale is close to zero. Gay Parents Australia is aiming to change that. We’re making it possible for relevant brands and service providers to talk directly to this highly niche market.’ To find out more visit www.gayparentsaustralia.com.au.

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Newborns will join our thriving active and healthy lifestyle in no time with a little help from their parents and the City of Gold Coast. Parents will leave the city’s maternity wards with a Parent Pack as well as a new baby following the launch during National Families Week last month. Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said city’s enviable lifestyle, family-friendly parks, beaches and free or lowcost programs and events, all combine to make the city a fantastic place for families. "The Parent Pack is an informative resource on some of the key programs and services available for young families, all contained in a handy folder," Cr Tate said. The pack will be distributed to new parents at Gold Coast University Hospital, Pindara Private Hospital and John Flynn Private Hospital. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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FEATURE

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FEATURE

Being

beautiful

By Karen Burton

Babies are born beautiful. They get smiled at, cooed over and admired pretty much indiscriminately not just by their parents but by everyone they meet.

H

owever, in return, babies are not so even-handed with their affection. By the age of six months, they will spend more time looking at pretty faces than at plain ones, even though at that age a baby is still unable to recognise his or her own face in the mirror. It’s not until the age of two (or toddlerhood) that children understand that their reflection belongs to them. By that time, the wide eyed, cherubic features that brought them so much attention as babies have made way for an elongated, less regular visage with the presence of both teeth and hair adding to the, sometimes messy, picture.

So do they like what they see?

That’s a hard one to answer. What we do know is that adults respond differently to children based on their appearance. And it’s not only strangers who fall into this trap; it’s apparently parents as well.

A minor uproar was caused recently when a Canadian researcher from the University of Alberta discovered that attractive young children are better cared for by their parents. The study tracked families around the supermarket, giving their two to five-yearold children marks out of ten for attractiveness and then scoring parental attention. It was discovered that the least attractive children (boys and girls) were allowed to wander further away from the trolley and were far less likely to be buckled up in the trolley seat. The “gorgeous ones” were kept close at hand and strapped

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in safely. “Attractiveness as a predictor of behaviour, especially parenting behaviour, has been around a long time,” said research team head Dr Andrew Harrell. “Most parents will react to these results with shock and dismay. They’ll say ‘I love all my kids, and I don’t discriminate on the basis of attractiveness.’ The whole point of our research is that they do.”

This is not to say that attractive children are loved more.

Sure, parents and the wider community respond differently to appearance (as they do to other distinctions like age, gender, and race) but we’re talking about supermarket behaviour here, not child abuse. Perhaps the good-looking kids are being wrapped in cotton wool, over-protected, never allowed to fill a bag of mushrooms for mum while she chooses the apples?

Whatever your take on this, it’s hard to resist the obvious point that appearance is a factor for children from a very early age. And if a response to attractiveness is somehow hard-wired into our brains (remember the babies who prefer gazing at beauty) then the current media bombardment only makes it worse.

Images of children – or more accurately of what children should aspire to look like – are everywhere these days. They are on the television of course, but also on the pages of the magazines that younger and younger children are buying and reading, on posters and on food packets.

JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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FEATURE

Music videos and commercials that use attractive, slim models and muscled men to link success and happiness with appearance have been shown to cause body image dissatisfaction in boys and girls.

According to Young Media Australia (YMA), a not-for-profit organisation committed to informing parents and children about media influences, a child’s body image begins to develop from infancy when babies first become aware of what their bodies feel like and what they can do. Caregivers’ reactions to the child’s body and appearance play an important role in shaping how they feel about their bodies through childhood. A gender difference emerges quite early as boys learn to view their bodies as tools to master their environment whereas girls learn that their bodies can be used to attract others.

“As children approach adolescence, they become increasingly aware of what society’s standards are for the ‘ideal body’ and social comparison plays more of a role in their self-perception,” claims a YMA fact sheet on body image. “In the last ten years however, there are many alarming reports of children as young as nine expressing dissatisfaction with their bodies, with one survey reporting 40% of the 9-10 year olds surveyed have tried to lose weight,” it warns. Children in this age group are also accessing beauty treatments like waxing as well as the more controversial plastic surgery to correct perceived failings in their physical appearance.

Media Influence

While television is seen as a major influence, it’s more what children watch, not how much they watch that’s important - although ironically being couch potatoes will take kids’ bodies away from the ‘ideal’ image portrayed on the box. Soap operas and other popular prime-time dramas are a major problem, having been linked with the internalisation of cultural beauty ideals and the drive for thinness in both girls and boys. Music videos and commercials that use attractive, slim models and muscled men to link success and happiness with appearance have been shown to cause body image dissatisfaction in boys and girls.

To counter the media onslaught on children, YMA suggests doing reality checks with your children from time to time while out shopping or in a public place surrounded by real people. Just stop for a moment and ask your kids how many people they can see that actually look like the people they see on television – soap actors, pop stars and the rest. The YMA also suggests that from an early age, parents should do whatever they can to develop self-esteem in their children which isn’t linked to appearance. “Myths that link beauty with happiness and success are mistaken”, the organisation says, “and more than that they are specifically designed this way in order to manipulate the viewer into buying the advertised products.”

Perhaps it’s not all myth. Studies show that there is actually a beauty factor linked to wages which means that tall, slender attractive women and men earn around 5% more than their more average counterparts.

However, whether they get better jobs because they are more attractive, or whether their looks give them higher self esteem (leading to better job success) is up for debate.

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

Self-Esteem – the key to happiness

Psychologists describe it as the experience of being capable of meeting life’s challenges and being worthy of happiness. Put simply, self-esteem is the way we feel about ourselves and how much we value our own worth and importance. Young children typically base their self-esteem on the feedback they receive from others with parents (as usual) having the greatest impact. A typical sevenyear-old will build his or her self-esteem from three separate areas: academic success (intelligence), social acceptance (friends), and physical attributes (looks). As children move into adolescence, parental feedback becomes less important than peer feedback, and some new domains join the old ones in building self-esteem; feeling unique, a sense of integrity, feeling in control of one’s life. During teenage years, the idea of popularity and physical (including athletic) success becomes especially important, but it’s still only one of many areas on which a healthy self-esteem should be based. Bring in the media and society’s emphasis on attractiveness and it’s easy to see why teenagers (and younger children) often get things out of proportion.

It’s sad too, that we tend to dwell on the one area (looks) that is almost certain to decline with age, while ignoring the other areas that are far more likely to increase as we get older.

So what do we do to help the situation? Throwing out the television and removing all mirrors might be one solution (the number of car accidents caused by the removal of the rear view mirror should equal the number prevented as drivers are unable to check their appearance), but we all know that isn’t going to happen. A more realistic approach might be to limit the type of television watched by children (not too many soap operas or commercial channels) while teaching them to be ‘media savvy’ and understand the truth about the images they are seeing. For instance, their favourite sports star or celebrity will probably have had their image digitally enhanced (and we’re not just talking red-eye removal) before ending up on the front cover of their favourite magazine.

The following suggestions might be worth considering too.

•B e a positive role model. Try not to criticise your own appearance in front of your children. If you have issues with the way you look, don’t let on to the kids (and get some assistance to help you with whatever issues you may have).

•P romote good health and nutrition. Kids who have a balanced lifestyle are less likely to become obsessed with their appearance.

•H elp build their self-confidence by encouraging children to get involved in sports, art or music.

•G ive positive feedback, not only about appearance but also about school performance and personality.

•R emind your children that you love and admire them for who they are.

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JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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FEATURE

Send subtle messages to boost self-esteem.

The way you give praise to your children can also send subtle messages to boost self-esteem. Experts believe that descriptive praise (rather than evaluative praise) can help children become independent, creative thinkers and do-ers rather than looking to someone else for approval. Instead of evaluating what your child has done, this kind of praise describes the detail exactly and allows him to recognise the truth and praise himself.

Descriptive praise is harder work - and if it takes too long to come up with something appropriate when a painting is thrust under your nose, then saying “fantastic” is better than saying nothing at all. All praise is good, but descriptive praise is thought to be especially good in building self-esteem. Describing your children’s achievements lets them see their strengths more clearly, makes them feel more powerful and allows them to praise themselves. As they grow up and parental approval becomes less important, the person your child really needs to please is him or herself. And that – if our children could achieve it – would be beautiful indeed.

The good, the bad, and the absolutely gorgeous

If the research is to be believed, exceptionally beautiful children are going to be treated differently throughout their lives by teachers, adults and friends. As parents of a child that continuously turns heads, you may need to prepare your child for this, attempt to explain it, and put everything into a healthy perspective. A very young child might not understand why they are getting a lot of attention for just walking into a room (where other children are basically ignored) and depending on their personality they may not like the extra attention their physical appearance attracts.

The rulebook for developing healthy self-esteem in beautiful children is much the same as it is for everyone else. Physical appearance is still only one of six areas that contribute to a person’s sense of worth – a high score in that department won’t make him or her any happier in the other five.

Situation

Evaluative Praise

Descriptive Praise

Describing appearance

“you look gorgeous”

“that colour really suits you and you’ve chosen matching socks. Well done.

Admiring a picture

“that’s a beautiful painting”

“I like the blue trucks and red cars, they look very bright and cheerful”

Your child shares a toy

“you are so kind”

“Look how happy Katie is now. She didn’t have anything to play with until you gave her that teddy.”

Your child helps with a job

“Wow you’re strong”

“Thanks for your help, those boxes were very heavy”

What do you think?

Has beauty or looks impacted your family? Share with us on the online version of this article at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au.

Useful Links

The Australian Council on Children and the Media produces a series of fact sheets on making children media savvy.

Go to www.childrenandmedia.org.au/kidzone/kidzone-facts/ The Butterfly Foundation offers advice and support for parents of children with body image problems and eating disorders.

Go to www.thebutterflyfoundation.org.au

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

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Available from The Eumundi Emporium. Ph: 5442 7340 or email: giddygeckos@bigpond.com 2. VS SOCKS: Watch out, there are creatures about! Super soft socks/ puppets with grip on the bottom to prevent slipping over. Perfect for those snuggy, cold winter days at home. Sized for 4-8 year-olds with plenty of stretch. They come in a variety pack of dog vs. cat, dolphin vs. fish and owl vs. mouse. Funky and functional, kids love the feel and play-value of these socks...or...puppets...or socks... $20 from www.lamington. net.au or www.littlesprout.com.au 3. RICKY DEES FORT: Magical childhood toys: Ricky Dee's Toys from Camphor Trees are unique, hand carved, enchanting toys hand crafted at Eumundi on the Sunshine Coast. Designs include timber tree-houses, castles, farms, horse yards, fairy houses, eco log cabins, fairy doors, wishing wells & detailed miniature furniture for Pixies and peg people. Prices for the “ultimate castle” start from $270; accessories from $2.50. www.rickydees.com.au or 0408 8717 54 4. NATURAL PLAY HAIR DYE FOR KIDS: The Pure Poppet Natural Hair Colour packs will let Poppets go to the next level with their dressing up and character games. The natural, nonpermanent hair colour is all about having heaps of fun and doing it safely using natural ingredients that are Australian made. Easy to apply and wash out, the Natural Hair Colour is perfect for parties, special events or just because all Poppets want to add some extra fun to their day. $19.95 from www.purepoppet.com 5. PEEKABOO: Proudly show the world you are expecting! This comfortable tee is sure to become a staple of your maternity wardrobe. Featuring a flattering neckline and cute cap sleeves. The style and fit will enhance your growing belly and blooming shape. $59.95 from www.bubsnbumps.com.au 6. FINGER TATTOOS: A variety of themed finger tattoos to create little finger puppets or “toys”. From a farm theme to a fairy-tale theme, you can to create your own adventure with your fingers. $7.95 from www.australiangiftsonline.com.au

6

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JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

15

EDUCATION

"EVERY CHILD IS AN ARTIST. THE PROBLEM IS STAYING AN ARTIST WHEN YOU GROW UP." PABLO PICASSO

MAKING THE MAKING W

By Rachel Downie

hen my son was 3, I found him on the veranda in the throes of building what (he thought) was to become an iconic architectural structure. After surveying the collection of sticks, cardboard, wood glue and various other semi-authorised building materials “borrowed” from my wardrobe, the shed and the old lawnmower, I asked him what he was doing. “Making the making,” he scoffed (with the disapproval and contempt that only 3 year olds can express) and promptly asked me to leave him be because he was busy. So I left, thinking that council approval would need to be sought for the ensuing extension and wondering how on earth my old maternity bras were going to feature!

‘Making the making’ is something that I have specialised in for the past 17 years. You see, I am very luckily, a Visual Art teacher, having taught the subject from Prep to Year 12, in a variety of educational settings, including prison. And in every setting, I have seen Art make confident thinkers out of self-conscious kids and a sense of pride develop in those who have a lack of self-respect because making ‘stuff’, and thinking about making ‘stuff’ with your own hands feels great. Artmaking can not only sometimes reach places other areas of the curriculum can’t, it also helps our kids to invent, innovate and investigate, which are processes that are related to finding solutions for problems in every subject they will undertake.

16

Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

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JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

17

EDUCATION

"THINK LEFT AND THINK RIGHT AND THINK LOW AND THINK HIGH. OH, THE THINKS YOU CAN THINK UP IF ONLY YOU TRY." DR SEUSS

"CREATIVITY IS CONTAGIOUS, PASS IT ON." ALBERT EINSTEIN

18

ARTMAKING?

PROBLEM SOLVING

Given that children develop their capabilities sequentially (from simple to complex abilities) and at their own pace, artmaking can provide them with sensory learning experiences that they are able to master at their own rate. There are not many other areas of the curriculum that are as flexible as this. Kids will use pretty much anything to make art (including maternity bras!) and each material they choose to use, brings with it, its own set of challenges and therefore a different level of skill and thought development.

Artmaking is a special type of problem solving. It is about finding solutions to problems that don’t have simple answers. Making art utilises adaptability and flexibility of thought which are both critical for your child to be a successful life-long learner. And because these types of thought processes are applied to every part of the curriculum, it is very important to nurture artmaking activities both at home as well as in your child’s academic world. Kids who ‘make the making’ are regularly proven to be more adventurous and innovative in their thinking across the board. This is because dealing with ambiguous situations or problems (like making anything one desires from an egg carton!) encourages divergent thinking or ideational fluency.

Remember The Useful Box from Playschool? Egg-carton caterpillars, paper plate masks and doily thingies were more often than not, the highlight of my week (I actually have no idea what we made from doilies but it was fun). The reason for this was because I didn’t have to do it the way everyone else did and I often felt stifled in my creative thinking process in all of my other subject areas. The power in artmaking for me, was not having to proffer the same ‘answer’ as everyone else. This sense of individuality in creative decision making and problem solving, applies to real-world problem solving because it’s not black and white. You see the real world, as in the world after school, does not have standardised answers for everything. How easy would life be if it did? Not to mention boring!

Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

Ideational fluency is giving as many responses as you can think of to a particular stimulus. We call it brainstorming. For example, when a group of four year olds were asked what they could make from an egg carton, one boy’s list was: a caterpillar, boobs, pimples, a holder for stuff, rocks and (my personal favourite) a lumpish decoration for Grandma’s special table!

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Lindisfarne Early Learning Centre - A Seamless Transition At Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School young children are offered a unique opportunity to commence their early years of schooling in our Early Learning Centre (ELC). The ELC provides a seamless transition from playgroup to preschool and then onto kindergarten.

Playgroup is an informal session where parents, caregivers, children and babies meet together in a relaxed early childhood environment and runs each Thursday and Friday morning (9:00am – 10:30am). Preschool is the preferred formal point of entry into Lindisfarne. Children moving into the preschool will experience a play-based program focusing on child initiated play with strong developmental foundations for literacy and numeracy.

Children participate in primary school life by interacting in whole school events such as sports carnivals. Staff endeavour to ensure that all children are ready for kindergarten (first year of formal schooling in NSW) through their careful documentation and observation of children’s development during the preschool year. Preschoolers also have the opportunity to spend time in the kindergarten classrooms ensuring a smooth transition into school.

Kindergarten maintains aspects of a play-based program as the children begin to journey towards more formal literacy and numeracy learning experiences. Kindergarten children are introduced to a values-based program in Term 1, which provides them with information and strategies related to developing positive relationships with others. The kindergarten early literacy program, which was developed in consultation with a speech language pathologist, is internationally recognised and developmentally appropriate.

For more information please contact: The Registrar at enrolments@lindisfarne.nsw.edu.au | 07 5590 5099 JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

19

EDUCATION "MANY HIGHLY TALENTED, BRILLIANT, CREATIVE PEOPLE THINK THEY’RE NOT - BECAUSE THE THING THEY WERE GOOD AT AT SCHOOL WASN’T VALUED, OR WAS ACTUALLY STIGMATIZED." SIR KEN ROBINSON

Sir Ken Robinson says that the problem with systems of education is that they supress creativity and divergent thinking (click here to watch his TED talk, it’s fabulous! http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=iG9CE55wbtY). Creativity is a function of everything we do and instead of promoting creativity, he says that we are educating our children out of it. This is because current education systems place a great deal of emphasis on academic development. As a result, arts programs are being reduced or even eliminated from classrooms because they are not valued as being academic enough, to accommodate more linear teaching methods and Art (the arts) is really anything but. Robinson also says that literacy and creativity should be given equal status in learning because we are in danger of educating our children to be good workers rather than creative thinkers. Unfortunately, my experience as a Visual Art teacher is that parents and colleagues often coach children out of doing Art because they’re not going to be a professional artist. What about learning through enjoyment? What about fun? With this in mind I would ask, why then are students allowed to spend so much time playing say, soccer or netball throughout their schooling, if they’re not going to be a professional sportsperson? You’ll say because it keeps them healthy. Well, expressing creativity keeps people healthy as well: on an emotional level, on a thinking level and on a skill level. Please don’t think I am taking sides, I’m not. I believe in a learning balance and I also believe in individuating each child’s way of learning because they are all so beautifully different. We have to be careful not to divorce our kids from their natural aptitudes through their educational journey, by predetermining the ‘how’ of their learning.

FINDING TIME

"HAVE NO FEAR OF PERFECTION, YOU’LL NEVER REACH IT." SALVADOR DALI

20

The ‘busy-ness’ of life, financial pressures determining that both parents work, ‘technoplay’ and the omnipresent contemporary pressure to always be doing a plethora of new things, mean that many parents are time poor. They are precluded from finding those valuable moments to delve into their ‘useful boxes’, to make seemingly unimportant stuff with their children. In the classroom, we are seeing an overall decline in some of the abilities that kids are entering school with because of these factors. Some schools report that students are starting without being able to use scissors, glue shapes on a page, kick, throw or catch a ball or even ride a bike. I also see an everincreasing number of students who lack the confidence to begin an artmaking task, because they are so worried about not being able to make it perfectly; and they’re petrified of being wrong because society consistently stigmatizes mistake making. Our society is so perfection orientated that the potential to stifle a child’s creative learning process and confidence in taking a risk to try something new is significant. This is highly detrimental because some very important learning comes from making mistakes as well. Seriously, how can one judge whether or not a pair of egg carton sunglasses are perfect or not!

Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

Kids have an innate high level of creativity because they muse, explore, investigate and experiment naturally, without fear of being judged on the outcome. They do all of this within their physical and conceptual environments and there are things we parents can do, to help foster their creativity and divergent thinking: n Provide an environment to explore without undue restraint. Not only the space your child creates in but also the materials or “stuff” they are allowed to have access to. That is why the concept of a useful box is great; they are allowed access to everything in it but can make their own choices about what they will use. n Please let them own their own ideas. We sometimes selfishly structure their ideas into an adult’s concept of a good idea. Believe it or not, we are mostly less creative than they are, so it is important for you to be able to facilitate their creativity without managing it. n Accept the weird stuff too! Great divergent thinking is sometimes not what we expect. Ask them to explain what they have made, you’ll be entertained; the glitter and baby pooh coloured painting has a fantastical explanation for sure! n Emphasise process (exploring, thinking, doing) rather than the end product. n Your kids learn from watching you. You are valuable resources for facilitating learning, so be creative too; whatever they’re doing, join in but let them lead. n Ask questions at your child’s school. Are Art lessons provided? Does a specialist teach them? How often do they have these lessons?

POSITIVE EXPERIENCE Kids perform well when they are in touch with things that make them feel good and this needs to be applied to their learning world as well. Generating original ideas is the basis of creative potential and the creative process underpins learning in all areas of the curriculum.

Artmaking is “a critical link for students in developing the crucial thinking skills and motivations they need to achieve at higher levels."

(Deasy, & Stevenson, 2002) Having opportunities to develop aesthetic awareness, feelings and discernment through making arty stuff undeniably contributes to the development of your child’s wholeness and potential, as well as their confidence to try new things and challenge assumptions. I like to call it, thinking!

So, what are you waiting for, go on, get out the flour glue, dried pasta, egg cartons, pipe cleaners and doilies and start “making the making”.

You never know, the pasta necklace you have been emotionally bribed to wear to work today, may have fostered the thinking processes in some little being, who is going to discover a way to end child poverty.

Just in case you were wondering, the elastic from my maternity bras ended up being used to make a slingshot. The stick and glue Guggenheim was abandoned in order to do something else of utmost importance!

HAVE YOU DONE SOMETHING QUIRKY OR INTERESTING IN THE NAME OF ART WITH YOUR KIDS? Share with us online at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au.

Get started with some crafty ideas, visit our Pinterest boards KIDS on the Coast/in the City

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

21

Stick this calendar on your fridge!

Gold Coast - on the coast

CALENDAR JUNE 7 JUNE 1

LIBRARY EVENTS Check out your local library!

Did you know that Council libraries have free events, classes, workshops and activities for babies and children?

Details: www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/library/ events-activities-66.html SATURDAYS

DRAX4KIDS THE SHOW Where: Draculas, Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach When: Midday See live rock music, special effects, comedy, puppetry, dancing, interactive games, and an amazing aerial circus!

Details: www.draculas.com.au/queensland/ drax-4-kids

JUNE

COOMERA COMMUNITY FAIR Where: Coomera Anglican College When: 10am to 3pm For the young and young at heart, there are plenty of exciting and colourful rides to test out and the littlies will love the cup and saucer ride and the jumping castles.

Details: For more info or to pre-order your rides arm band, visit www.cac.qld.edu.au or phone 07 5585 9976 JUNE 1

SPORTY FUN AT ORMEAU Where: Landsdowne Park, Landsdowne Drive, Ormeau When: 10am to 1pm Get your game on and join in some fun sporty games and activities with Stan the Active Man; race your mates on the rock wall or have a kick in the Small Sports inflatable arena.

Details: Free, 07 5559 0318, totaltalent.com. au or www.gcparks.com.au/events-details. aspx?event=2423

KIDS WITH CAMERAS Where: Evandale Park Ouyan Street Bundall (Meet near the volley ball courts) When: 2pm to 3:45pm Get out with your kids and cameras and have fun with photography.

Details: $10. Bookings required, Random Act Photography 0407 222 543 or email callanlewis@gmail.com JUNE 8

RAINBOW TIE-DYE SPIRAL WORKSHOP Where: Pat Fagan Park Marine Parade, Coolangatta When: 10am to 12noon Try a new super easy paintbrush method!

Bring your own pre-loved white/washed item (T-shirt, shorts) or a pillow case will be supplied.

Details: Bring your own white washed garment $6 or pillow case supplied for $9.

More info, Aspire Design 0402 616 204 or email aspiral.designs@gmail.com

8

Drax4Kids

JUNE 13

BLUE LIGHT DISCO Where: Gold Coast PCYC, 180 Monaco St, Broadbeach Waters When: 7pm to 9:30pm Your child will have a fun and safe evening with no pass out policy and a police supervised environment. Primary school age only.

Details: phone 5538 5201 or visit www.goldcoastpcyc.com/new/disco JUNE 14

YOUNG ACTORS MASTERCLASS Where: The Space, The Arts Centre Gold Coast, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise When: 9am to 5pm (includes 1 hour lunch break) Masterclasses for young people interested in building their skills in acting, theatre and performance. Open to students in years 9 - 12.

Details: $100. www.theartscentregc.com.au

12to24

EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

UNTIL JUNE 22

JUNE 1

JUNE 8

JUNE 14

FUNSAIL DAYS

POINTS 4 PAC FAIR KIDS

Where: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent, Hollywell When: 9am - 10:30am A perfect introduction into sailing for kids from 7 to 16 years. Maximum of 32 students.

Bring a hat, shorts, t-shirts and sunscreen.

Details: $20 per person. No bookings required

Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach Points 4 Pac Fair Kids is a giving Gold Coast Schools the chance to share in $45,000 cash for their school!

Details: www.pacificfair.com.au/be-involved/ whats-on/events/points-4-pac-fair-kids

MONSTER MACHINERY DAY AT SOUTHPORT

LOVE YOUR PET….

JUST WALK WITH ME

UPPER COOMERA CENTRE 1ST BIRTHDAY AND FAMILY FUN DAY

DAILY

UNTIL JUNE 13, TUESDAYS

BUILD A BEAR WORKSHOP

AFTERSCHOOL KIDS' FITNESS FUN PLUS BOXING FOR PARENTS

Where: Mitchell Park, at the corner of North Street and Marine Parade, Southport When: 9am to 2pm Check out the machinery used to help build and maintain our city, including everything that digs, scoops, cleans and beeps.

There’ll be some fantastic activities on offer including the little diggers competition, free rides, live machinery demonstrations, food stalls and prize draws.

Details: Free. www.cityofgoldcoast.com.au/ monstermachineryday

Where: Aquaphier Park, Pitcairn Way, Pacific Pines When: 7am to 10am Spend a free morning out with all the family, as well as your dog, and enjoy a healthy walk and morning tea in the park.

Details: Free. More info, phone 07 5581 7631 or www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/community/ just-walk-me-18848.html

Where: Upper Coomera Centre, 90 Reserve Road, Upper Coomera When: 10am to 2pm Free activities to share with your family and friends.

Details: Free. More info, phone 07 5582 9327 or www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/uppercoomera-centre-1st-birthday-family-funday-21722.html

JUNE 8 & 9

JUNE 15

PACIFIC PINES UNITED EXPO

JUNE 7

FAMILY FUN ZONE AT COOLY ROCKS ON Where: Jack Evans Boat Harbour When: 11am to 2pm This year’s Cooly Rocks On festival includes an exciting Family Fun Zone with a jumping castle, a Play Doh table, hula hooping, arts and craft activities and art classes.

Details: www.coolyrockson. mybigcommerce.com/fun-times-for-kids-atcooly-rocks-on-2013

Where: Archipelago Street, Pacific Pines When: 10am to 3pm There will be activities, rides, fabulous on stage entertainment, demonstrations, raffles, food, drinks, and fun!

Details: Free entry and a number of free activities. $10 ride all day wristbands.

More info, phone 07 5581 6687 or www. goldcoast.qld.gov.au/pacific-pines-unitedexpo-2014-21552.html

JUNE 12 TO 22

JUNE 17

Where: Centro Surfers Paradise, corner Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Boulevard When: 9am to 7pm Monday to Wednesday, 9am to 9pm Thursday, Saturday and Sunday Select your animal, then, add a sound or even record a personalized message or heartbeat.

The process continues at the stuffing machine where you add just the right amount of stuffing and then give your new furry friend a name on a Birth Certificate.

Details: www.buildabear.com.au DAILY

FIRE 4 HIRE Where: Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise When: Day tours run for 45mins to 1 hour Take a joy ride on a fire truck from Surfers Paradise to the Spit where you will be experience the operation of a fully functional fire hose, and pose for photographs holding the nozzle wearing authentic fire helmets!

22

Where: Miami Primary School, 18 Oceanic Drive - 3:30pm. Firth Park Somerset Drive Mudgeeraba - 4pm. Nerang PCYC Cayuga Street Nerang - 3:30pm A fun afternoon in the park with a range of games and activities on offer to get the kids moving and laughing. All sessions include a boxing and fitness session for parents for $3.

Run by qualified trainers.

Details: Leaps and Bounds Childrens Fitness Centre 07 5534 4030 UNTIL TO JUNE 9

COOLY ROCKS ON Where: Coolangatta When: See website for event times This is the biggest 50s and 60s nostalgia festival in Australia! Over 2 kilometres of Rock 'n roll, Rockabilly, Swing and over 1,000 hot rods, custom cars and classic cars lining the stunning beachfront of Coolangatta and Tweed Heads.

Details: www.coolyrockson. mybigcommerce.com

Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

SAILING AND KAYAKING AT PARADISE POINT Where: Paradise Point Parklands, The Esplanade, Paradise Point When: 10am to 1pm Activities offered include kayaking, sailing, inflatable power boats, beach volleyball and sand art. All equipment is provided.

Details: $10. Bookings required, SAILS 0405 468 344 or 0420 811 080 www.gcparks.com.au/events-details. aspx?event=2511

KALEIDOSCOPE 2014 Where: Robina Community Centre Art Gallery, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina When: 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm Saturday and 12pm to 4pm Sunday This exhibition will showcase landscapes, seascapes, portraits and a wide variety of art for all ages.

Details: Free. More info 07 5526 5520 or www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/ kaleidoscope-2014-21840.html

TICKETY TOC SHOW Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach When: 9:30am & 11:30am, Meet and Greet 10:30am Join the stars of Tickety Toc live on stage and help Tallulah and her friend Cindy work out how they are going to win the Glitterball Contest.

Details: www.pacificfair.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

To see more events visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au/events

MARKETS

Regular weekly events, playgroups, library activities, weekly sporting events, craft classes, Australian Breastfeeding Association meeting times and much more…

JULY

JUNE 20-22

JUNE 30 TO JULY 11

TICKETY TOC WORKSHOP

PREGNANCY BABIES AND CHILDRENS EXPO Where: Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Bank When: Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm Australia's biggest parenting event is back in town. Shop and save - discover new products to help you and your toddler.

Expert parenting tips and advice, hot topics talks and entertainment.

Details: Free tickets online or $20 at the door. www.pbcexpo.com.au JUNE 20 TO 22

BROADBEACH COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL Where: Broadbeach When: 8am to 11pm The festival will see a perfect mix of board shorts and banjos, surf boards and steel guitars as country music’s finest assemble for three days and nights of incredible FREE entertainment.

Details: Free. www.broadbeachcountry.com

www.rednoseday.com.au

27

ALICE IN WONDERLAND Where: Queensland Theatre of Puppetry, Gerda Pinter Pavilion, Macintosh Island Park, Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise.

When: 9:30am and 11am, weekdays The Queensland Theatre of Puppetry (QTOP) is a non-profit organization which has been entertaining children on the Gold Coast for almost 40 years.

Details: www.qtop.org.au JULY 5

GOLD COAST MARATHON - 2KM AND 4KM JUNIOR DASH Where: Anzac Park, Southport, see website for race course.

When: Arrival time 8:40am, Start time 9:40am Parents/guardians are not permitted to accompany children competing in the 4km Junior Dash. If you feel that your child needs to be accompanied then they should participate in the 2km Junior Dash (ages 5 to 10).

Details: $25 early bird, $45 standard entry. www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au/races/ junior-dash/

5

JUNE 22 & JULY 27

BEACHFRONT MARKETS

THE VILLAGE MARKET

Where: The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise When: 5pm to 10pm If you're looking for an unusual gift or one-off piece, the beachfront Night Markets are your one-stop-shop.

Details: www.surfersparadise.com

Where: Paradise Point Parklands When: 8am to 1pm Showcases up to 100 fashion, arts and creative stalls as well as live local music and delicious gourmet food.

Details: www.thevillagemarketsgc.com.au

JUNE 1

JUNE 28

BABY & KIDS MARKET

THE MUMMY TREE MARKETS

Where: The Carrara Indoor Stadium, Nerang-Broadbeach Road, Entrance Gate 2, Carrara. Inside the Sport Hall.

When: 9am to 12noon This Baby & Kids Market is for preloved goods for boys & girls from birth to 7 yrs.

Details: $4 (kids free).There is plenty of free parking around the Centre.No EFTPOS, cash only. www.babykidsmarket.com.au

Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove When: 9am to 1pm This ‘Family Boutique’ market provides beautiful high quality, unique products and services which are not mass produced or easily found in shops.

Details: www.themummytreemarkets.com.au

JUNE 1 & 15, JULY 6 & 20

MONACO MARKETS

THE VILLAGE MARKET Where: Burleigh Heads State School When: 8am to 1pm Showcases up to 100 fashion, arts and creative stalls as well as live local music and delicious gourmet food.

Details: www.thevillagemarketsgc.com.au JUNE 8 & JULY 13

THE MUMMY TREE MARKETS Where: Westfield Helensvale When: 9am to 1pm This ‘Family Boutique’ market provides beautiful high quality, unique products and services which are not mass produced or easily found in shops.

Details: www.themummytreemarkets.com.au

JULY 15

BLUE LIGHT DISCO

MEET OPTIMUS PRIME

Where: The Cultural Precinct, QPAC, Brisbane Out of the Box is 8 days of cultural activity crafted to celebrate and support learning, play, curiosity and discovery for children and their families as they learn and grow together.

Details: www.outoftheboxfestival.com.au

Where: Gold Coast PCYC, 180 Monaco St, Broadbeach Waters When: 7pm to 9:30pm Your child will have a fun and safe evening with no pass out policy and a police supervised environment. Primary school age only.

Details: phone 5538 5201 or visit www.goldcoastpcyc.com/new/disco

Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach When: 9:30am to 12:30pm Meet Optimus Prime and then gear up in the Transformers Craft Village by decorating your very own Autobot shield mask.

Details: www.pacificfair.com.au

Red Nose Day is the national fundraising event day for SIDS and Kids held throughout the month of June. Red Nose Day provides critical funding for a 24-hour bereavement support service, community education to reduce incidents of SIDS and fatal sleeping accidents, and research into areas such as SIDS and stillbirth.

Details: www.rednoseday.com.au JUNE 28 TO JULY 13

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM If you are looking for fun and adventure on the school holidays then Gold Coast Parks have loads of action. Activities include: Craft and fun; Slacklining; Random days of fun; Rainbow tie dyeing; Kids fun in the park; Creative capers and more.

For a full program, check the website closer to the school holidays: Details: www.gcparks.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

JULY 11 TO 20

VIVA SURFERS PARADISE Where: Surfers Paradise Beach and Foreshore When: Various events and times With entertainment, music activities and workshops for all to get involved, enjoy musical memories from the 50’s and 60’s at the Ultimate Elvis Festival.

Details: www.surfersparadise.com/whatson/family-friendly-events/elvis-viva-surfersparadise JULY 15

MY LITTLE PONY SHOW Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach When: 9:30am & 11:30am, Meet and Greet 10:30am, Pony Rides 9:30am to 12:30pm Kids will love joining in with all the excitement and laughter as they sing and dance along with Pinkie Pie as she prepares for the best tea party ever. After kids can ride a real life pony!

Details: www.pacificfair.com.au

JULY 18

NATIONAL PYJAMA DAY

TICKETS

JULY 11

OUT OF THE BOX FESTIVAL

RED NOSE DAY

Where: 110 Monaco Street, Broadbeach Waters When: 8am to noon Stalls offer premium products specialising in high end, new and preloved fashion, accessories, crafts, coffee and food.

Details: www.monacomarkets.com JUNE 29 (LAST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH)

CAR BOOT SALE Where: Quality Hotel/Lonestar Tavern car park, Cnr Markeri Street & Sunshine Blvd, Mermaid Waters When: 5:30am to 10:30am Free entry to the public to buy or browse the goods on display which may include household items, clothing, toys, books, collectibles and more.

Details: Free entry. www.mermaidbeachrotary.com.au

Horrible Histories

JUNE 25 TO JULY 2

JUNE 27

JUNE 29 & JULY 27

Out of the Box Festival

Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach When: 9:30am to 12:30pm Details: www.pacificfair.com.au

JUNE 17

EVERY WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY AND SUNDAY NIGHT

Thousands of schools, businesses and groups will be encouraged to stay in their PJs on Friday 18 July to show support for The Pyjama Foundation's work with Australian children in foster care. www.thepyjamafoundation.com/pyjama-day/ JULY 26 TO 27

2014 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP FOR RADIO CONTROLLED LASERS Where: Emerald Lakes, Gold Coast When: 9am to 4:30pm The RC Laser is the only radio controlled yacht that is suitable for everyone from amateurs to race-hardened veterans. The kids will love seeing them race!

Details: For more info phone 07 5570 1685 or www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/2014australian-rc-laser-championship-21778.html * We publish information based on what is supplied to us - to the best of our knowlege all details are correct at the time of printing, however we do recommend you check event details with the organisers

The Wizard of Oz

JUNE 13 TO 14

JULY 4 TO 6

HORRIBLE HISTORIES AWFUL EGYPTIANS

CATS

Lyric Theatre, QPAC, Brisbane www.qpac.com.au

Brisbane Convention Centre premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/ show.aspx?sh=CATS14

JUNE 25 TO JULY 2

JULY 4 TO 12

OUT OF THE BOX FESTIVAL The Cultural Precinct, QPAC www.outoftheboxfestival.com.au

PETER PAN Spotlight Theatre www.spotlighttheatre.com.au JULY 10

THE WIZARD OF OZ The Arts Centre Gold Coast www.thewizardofozshow.com AUGUST 6 A family pass to the Out of the Box Festival. Enter online www.kidsonthecoast.com.au/ competitions JUNE 28 TO 20

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS TREASURE TROVE Brisbane Entertainment Centre premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/ show.aspx?sh=DISNEYIC14 JULY 1 TO 4

YO GABBA GABBA LIVE! Brisbane Powerhouse www.brisbanepowerhouse.org/ events/2014/07/01/yo-gabbagabba-live/

WOMBAT STEW The Arts Centre Gold Coast www.theartscentregc.com. au/whats-on/whats-on-items/ wombat-stew SEPTEMBER 20

CINDERELLA The Arts Centre Gold Coast www.theartscentregc.com. au/whats-on/whats-on-items/ cinderella SEPTEMBER 27, 2014 TO JANUARY 25, 2015

THE LION KING Lyric Theatre, QPAC www4.qpac.com.au

JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

23

THE P FILES

ANXIOUS CHILDREN Dealing with your child’s anxiety Dr Kelly Bowers Youthrive Integrated Therapy Services WHAT IS ANXIETY? We hear the term ‘anxiety’ on an almost daily basis. While our awareness of anxiety has certainly improved in recent years, many families are still unsure of what it really means. In simple terms, anxiety means fear. But a fear of what exactly? Many people experience a range of different anxieties, but what is often misunderstood is that all anxieties relate to the same underlying thing – a fear that our most basic needs will not be met.

Food. Shelter. Survival. When we feel that we are under threat, our basic survival instincts kick in. Anxiety in this sense is a good thing as it serves to protect us and motivates us to take action against any potential danger. However, anxiety becomes problematic when we begin to overestimate the likelihood of a threat, or perceive a threat when it may never have actually existed.

Regardless of the source of the anxiety, the symptoms are often the same. These typically include: • physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, increased breathing rate, dizziness, sweating, and nausea • intrusive and persistent thoughts • constant feelings of apprehension and worry.

Anyone who has ever experienced a form of anxiety will testify that these symptoms often cause a lot of distress, and that they can become overwhelming and debilitating if they are allowed to take over.

Anxiety often becomes problematic when it begins impacting on several areas of our children’s lives and stops them from doing things that they enjoy. Unfortunately, symptoms of anxiety may begin to ‘snowball’ as other areas, such as social relationships and academic functioning, begin to be impacted. The good news however, is that there is a high success rate in the treatment of anxiety disorders via psychological intervention. The key is to first of all recognise the symptoms, and then seek support as early as possible.

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

TYPES OF ANXIETY Although reports of prevalence rates vary for each specific type of anxiety, the general finding is that approximately 6–10% of children and adolescents experience some kind of anxiety disorder. Approximately 50% of people who experience one anxiety disorder will also meet the clinical criteria for a second anxiety disorder.

GENERALISED ANXIETY: Children experience multiple nonspecific fears. Fear is not focussed on one particular object, situation or event. Children appear to worry about almost everything and anything.

This may include a fear of worrying about worrying.

SEPARATION ANXIETY: A fear of being separated from a parent or attachment figure. Children who experience separation anxiety often display clingy behaviour and/or refusal to go to school.

SOCIAL ANXIETY: Relates to a fear of being negatively evaluated by others, or of embarrassing oneself in front of other people. Social anxiety has an impact on social functioning and social skills, which may potentially have further impacts in later life (e.g. obtaining employment).

POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD): Occurs after the experience of a traumatic event. Trauma is usually perceived as life threatening to the child or others. It includes recurring fearful thoughts and memories after the traumatic event has occurred. Children who experience PTSD often try to avoid situations or events that remind them of the traumatic event.

SPECIFIC PHOBIA: Is a fear about a particular object, event or situation (e.g. fear of spiders, injections, heights, rollercoasters, small spaces). It often includes the overestimation of the likelihood that the particular object will cause harm.

OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD): Commonly known for repetitive or compulsive behaviours (e.g. turning a light switch on and off multiple times before leaving a room). These behaviours are often triggered by the intrusive, repetitive and obsessive thought that harm will occur if a particular behaviour is not performed correctly.

PANIC DISORDER: Relates to unexpected panic attacks, which include intense and extreme bouts of anxiety, which occur in short isolated periods. Attacks mainly consist of uncontrollable physical symptoms such as heart palpitations and rapid breathing.

For more information relating to each of these please visit www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/anxiety/types-of-anxiety.

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25

THE P FILES

WHAT CAUSES ANXIETY? Anxiety typically develops based on the outcomes of a past experience. It is important to note here that the type of anxiety that a child experiences can be dependent on the developmental stage during which the child first experienced the threat or harm.

For example, a child who is not held or nurtured during infancy may develop a fear of being separated from their caregiver in later childhood. When thinking about the trigger for anxiety, it is often helpful to think about other events that were happening in your child’s life at the same time that their symptoms first occurred.

TRAUMATIC EVENT: If children experience a traumatic event, whether or not they are physically harmed, it is understandable that they may be fearful of that same event occurring again. Once a traumatic event has occurred, children generally overestimate the likelihood that the event will reoccur.

VICARIOUS TRAUMA: This refers to situations where children may not have experienced the trauma first hand but may have heard stories of harm occurring to other people, like media coverage of natural disasters. Again in these instances, children generally overestimate the likelihood that the event will happen to them.

LIFE TRANSITION: Any type of change can be anxiety provoking; particularly for children. Consistent home and lifestyle routines help kids to feel secure. When this changes, the predictability of their world is challenged. Lifestyle changes such as moving house, changing schools, parental separation, illness or the death of a family member, are all likely to evoke some degree of anxiety within children, as these changes challenge their idea of how their world works. If these changes are perceived to be threatening or dangerous in some way, children are likely to experience anxious symptoms.

LEARNED BEHAVIOUR: While genetics do play a small part in the onset of anxiety, environmental factors and learned behaviours usually have a larger influence in the development of anxious symptoms in children. It is well understood that children learn behaviours from their parents and caregivers – and this includes anxious behaviours.

Children who have a parent or family member who experiences anxiety are more likely to experience anxiety themselves when compared to children who don’t.

Any type of change can be anxiety provoking.

While parents may be able to pin point the situation or event that initially triggered their child’s anxiety, it is commonly reported that their child has gradually started to demonstrate anxious symptoms in areas that are not related to the initial circumstance. This is because anxiety often starts to generalise to other areas of life. Children begin to interpret the potential for danger across multiple situations that may not relate to the situation when the anxiety first developed. It’s important to ensure that anxiety is appropriately managed before it has the opportunity to develop further.

WHAT MAINTAINS ANXIETY?

AVOIDANCE: Avoidance occurs in all anxiety disorders. It makes sense that we want to avoid things that make us feel uncomfortable or uneasy. However, we need to ask ourselves whether it is possible to overcome our fears if we continually avoid them? Parents may unintentionally reinforce their child’s anxiety by promoting or allowing avoidant behaviour. It is unpleasant to see our children experiencing distress, so it is natural for parents to help their children avoid anxiety provoking situations. While this may reduce the anxious symptoms in the short term, this behaviour ultimately reinforces to our children that the situation they were avoiding was indeed threatening.

Similarly, constant or excessive positive reinforcement may also maintain child anxiety by sending the same message. It’s not uncommon for parents and caregivers themselves to become anxious about their child’s anxiety, and thus unintentionally model anxious behaviour.

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

FAMILY LIFE: Disagreement between parents about the best way to manage their child’s anxiety may also create further anxiety for the child. Children may feel guilty or anxious if they believe that their symptoms are the cause of their parent’s conflict. Inconsistencies in parenting styles may result in children receiving mixed messages about how to approach their anxiety. Children thrive on consistent family routines and structures.

SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT: Anxiety may also often be reinforced by children’s peers. The impact that anxiety has on social relationships may result in social isolation from others, and/or being bullied by peers. These experiences are likely to further increase the symptoms of anxiety and maintain the belief that their world is not a safe place.

MANAGING YOUR CHILD’S ANXIETY

SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP: Psychological interventions have high success rates in treating anxiety disorders. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is recognised as an effective treatment. Families that feel that their child is currently experiencing symptoms of anxiety are encouraged to contact a psychologist for support. A psychologist can be found in your local area on the ‘Find a Psychologist’ website www. psychology.org.au/findapsychologist

EDUCATION: It is often difficult to treat anxiety when the cause or reason for anxious symptoms is not understood. By understanding why particular anxious symptoms occur, children are able to learn appropriate coping skills to overcome those symptoms.

REALISTIC THINKING: In an anxious state our mind can play tricks on us by overestimating the probability of a threat occurring.

By challenging negative and intrusive thoughts, children are able to identify the realistic probabilities of particular threats. By developing realistic thinking styles, children are better able to identify the difference between ‘real dangers’ and ‘false alarms’.

EXPOSURE THERAPY: Avoid avoidance. The best way to overcome anxiety is often for children to do the very thing that they feel anxious about. This helps children to gain first hand evidence that they have overestimated the likelihood of harm occurring. The most successful form of exposure therapy is a graded approach, which means starting with small steps to help develop a sense of success and self-confidence within the anxious child. For example, a child with a fear of dogs may start out by looking at pictures of dogs and holding toy dogs, before being encouraged to actually pat a real dog.

RELAXATION TRAINING: There are many forms of relaxation.

The most commonly known include deep breathing, muscle relaxation strategies, and guided imagery. The benefit of relaxation skills are that they reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, and allow a clearer mind for challenging unhelpful thought patterns.

MODELLING NON-ANXIOUS BEHAVIOUR: This is sometimes easier said than done, particularly if parents experience the same anxiety as their children. Nonetheless, parents who have an understanding of anxiety themselves are often better equipped to demonstrate coping strategies to their children. The rehearsal of coping skills during non-anxious times is often beneficial for both parents and children. Rewarding brave and non-anxious behaviour may also prove beneficial for children who experience anxiety. After being rewarded for their brave behaviour, children are able to build self-confidence and set themselves up for future successes.

Any strategy which is used to help children overcome anxiety is best served in supportive family and school environments. Patience, communication, and the display of empathy and understanding, often help children to feel supported. If a child has confidence in their parents and teachers, then they are much more likely to have confidence in themselves. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

27

BABIES

NAPPY REVOLUTION

By Justine Stewart and Jackie Goldston 3.75 MILLION DISPOSABLE NAPPIES ARE DUMPED EVERY SINGLE DAY IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND ALONE. IN AUSTRALIA, MORE THAN ONE BILLION SINGLE-USE NAPPIES FROM DOMESTIC WASTE SYSTEMS ARE DELIVERED TO LANDFILL SITES FOR DISPOSAL EVERY YEAR, AND THEY MAY TAKE UP TO 500 YEARS TO BIODEGRADE. Short of doing away with nappies altogether (and that’s a whole other article - do a Google search on “elimination communication” if you’re curious), the nappy revolution that’s now sweeping, or wiping, the world is just about the biggest thing ever to happen to baby’s bottoms. So if you’re not already up to speed, and can cope with more acronyms than a teenager’s Facebook feed, read on!

Those white towelling squares our mothers used are so last millennium, darling. Modern cloth nappies, or MCNs, feature fitted and elasticised

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

designs, funky patterns and colours, clever fasteners and an assortment of fabrics like wool, hemp, bamboo and microfibre, snuggled inside plush and/or decorative coverings, making them more absorbent, environmentally-friendly, better for baby and so darn cute you won’t want to put pants on the kid (there’s a work-around for winter, look up ‘baby legs’). You can forget about the stinky bucket full of chemicals too because even washing methods have been revamped. And let’s not forget the fact because you’re re-using you’ll save thousands of dollars.

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29

BABIES

Here’s a quick rundown of the different types (and by the way, you might want to sample a few different kinds and brands before you buy in bulk, to find out which one best suits you and your baby):

FITTED NAPPIES: Made of an absorbent fabric such as cotton, hemp, or bamboo, these are shaped to fit, hence the name, and are usually self-closing with either snaps or hook-and-loop fastenings (e.g.

Velcro). Usually they are adjustable and so “grow with your baby”.

Many have optional extra absorbency pads (sold with the nappy) if needed. They do need a separate waterproof cover - one cover usually lasts the whole day, just make sure you tuck all the nappy in under the cover or moisture can wick out on to baby’s clothes. A benefit of these nappies is that the whole nappy is absorbent making them fantastic for day sleeps, heavy wetters.

ALL-IN-ONES (AIO’S): Similar to fitted nappies, these are shaped and self-fastening and may have room for an extra absorbency pad, but they also have a built-in water-resistant cover - usually one of the newer breathable materials like polyurethane laminate (PUL) or premium quality polar fleece. These are much kinder to babies’ skin than the sweaty PVC covers of days gone by.

POCKET NAPPIES: Similar to the AIO, except that you decide how much absorbency you need - they’re basically a shell including a water-resistant liner, and you insert either pre-made “stuff-ins” or whatever you like that’s absorbent, into the pocket. The main advantage over AIO’s is that they dry faster because they come apart.

ALL IN TWOS: This style of nappy has a water proof outer shell & you adjust the absorbency by adding a snap in absorbent liner. The great thing about this style is that you can re-use the shell after the first insert is wet, simply add a new insert and you are ready to go again.

Quick dry, economical and generally the trimmest of all cloth nappies.

ONE SIZE FITS MOST: Probably the most popular modern cloth nappy, these are a fitted nappy which you can use from newborn to toilet training. Simply by adjusting the various ‘snaps’ on the exterior of the nappy you adjust the sizing of the nappy. This multi-fit style of nappy is the most cost effective in the long run as the one nappy will get you through years of nappy changing. They have a waterproof PUL exterior to keep them watertight and typically a microfleece or suede cloth lining so baby can be kept dry as wetness is wicked away from the skin. You adjust the absorbency by adding inserts as required by your baby.

BUT WHAT ABOUT THE WASHING? Relax, it’s not as hard as you think. Many of us with younger siblings can remember an ever-present open bucket in the corner of the laundry containing a charming cocktail of water, chemicals and stained terry squares - and the ahem...perfume it produced. Those days are gone.

Flush anything solid down the toilet (the special properties of the newer fabrics make this a lot easier) and simply toss nappies into a dry bucket with a tight-fitting lid to keep the smells in. Yep, you read that right. No water, no chemicals (wow, think what you’ll save on bleach and Napisan!).

These days there are flushable baby wipes and flushable liners which you simply place inside the nappy and these are designed to let moisture through but collect solids. Simply pop the soiled liner into the toilet and your nappy into the nappy bucket.

Every two days, do a nappy wash. Give them a pre rinse, then a machine wash with warm water, using low enzyme detergent such as recommended supermarket detergents are Earth Choice, Planet Ark, AWARE, Ecostore and there is even special detergents made for MCNs. Line dry (sunshine is great for nappies) or use a dryer on low temperature, and that’s it. You may be using less water, and certainly less energy and resources, than what disposables take to manufacture and distribute.

It’s barely more effort than putting disposables in the bin and buying new ones every week and certainly a lot cheaper! And a lot better for the planet than thousands of nappies ending up in landfill each week.

There are many brands to try in the market now as modern cloth nappies have fast gained popularity. There are a lot of cheap Chinese imports which will not last nor give you the absorbency you need. Go with a trusted, experienced manufacturer and you won’t look back!

Tell us about your favourite natural, recyclable, Eco or environmentally friendly nappy on our website or email editorial@kidsonthecoast.com. au and we will add a photo and a website/information to our nappy article! Help us create a fabulous eco nappy resource.

NIGHT NAPPIES: Yes there are specific night nappies designed to get your baby through 12 + hours of sleep without needing a nappy change.

Typically these nappies have extra inbuilt layers to hold larger volumes overnight and the whole nappy is absorbent, making it a great investment for dry night! These do require a waterproof cover and you can either use PUL covers or 100% natural wool covers are the perfect cover for nights as the wool absorbs more moisture and allows better breathability.

Image courtesy Baby BeeHinds

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

DID YOU KNOW? AUSTRALIANS THROW AWAY ABOUT 2.1 BILLION DISPOSABLE NAPPIES EVERY YEAR. Disposable nappies use over 8 times more nonrenewable raw materials (different kinds of plastics made from non-renewable crude oil) and 90 times more renewable materials (paper pulp from wood) than modern cloth nappies.

Bamboo and Hemp do not require chemical pesticides, are quick to grow and can easily be produced on sustainable plantations.

Disposable nappies account for approximately 1/3rd of household rubbish in a family with a child under two years, this has a huge impact on the costs of waste removal and landfill management (which are passed onto us by our local councils).

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Child Minding Available!

(all ages)

Enrol now and discover the benefits for your child

Go to www.swimfit.com.au for tips and advice on swimming for babies

Nerang Aquatic Centre - 5578 1976 Mention this ad when enrolling in lessons to receive a FREE TRIAL PASS to our Child Minding, Squads or an Aqua Fitness Class* Offer valid for Adult Squad, Aqua Aerobics, Deep Water Running and Child Minding only. Valid until 31 July 2014

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Australia’s First: Kids 1st Health Clinic Providing specialised health care for children

• Acute injury & illness • Immunisations • Growth & development screening • Nurse practitioners • Direct referral to Kids 1st Paediatrician • Emergency/Paediatric Nurse Practitioners (instead of just nurse practitioners) • Paediatric Focused GPs

Gold Co ast’s

1s t

children ’s acute health c are clinic

07 5689 1268 • www.kids1sthealth.com.au Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5pm

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Riverwalk Place, Level 1/238 Cnr Robina Tc Drive & Lower Drive

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Are you looking for a paediatric focused team who are dedicated to offering quality, compassionate health care for your family? Do you struggle to get an appointment with your GP when you need one?

Kids 1st Health is Australia’s first private paediatric clinic run by Nurse Practitioners in collaboration with a Paediatrician. A Nurse Practitioner is a registered nurse educated to a Master’s level and authorised to operate in an advanced clinical role. The ability to provide direct referrals to Dr Liam Tjia, Kids 1st Health’s Paediatrician, means that Kids 1st Health can provide the very best treatment and health care for your children.

The team at Kids 1st Health believe it’s important for families to have access to a health care service that has children as the focus, and can assist with day to day illness, acute injuries, immunisations and preventative health such as nutrition and lifestyle.

The management team of Shahn Horrocks (Nurse Practitioner – emergency and paediatric specialty) and Dr Liam Tjia (Paediatrician) each have 3 daughters, so understand the demands of being a parent. They both realise the difficulties many parents face when seeking quality and timely health care treatments for their children. Kids 1st Health aims to alleviate these pressures by making children’s health their priority. The clinic covers a multitude of paediatric areas and also have an allied health care team onsite who specialize in women’s and children’s presentations.

Kids 1st Health is located at Riverwalk Place, Level 1/238 Cnr Robina TC Drive & Lower Drive (opposite The Rocket). For appointments call 07 5689 1268 or email reception@kids1sthealth.com.au | www.kids1sthealth.com.au.

JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

31

BABIES

WHAT ABOUT DISPOSABLES? Hey, we understand, there are times when it feels like disposables may be the only thing standing between you and a fully-fledged nervous breakdown.

BUT AT LEAST THE MANUFACTURERS OF THESE NAPPIES ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK. SOME OF THE BETTER BRANDS ON OFFER IN AUSTRALIA ARE:

At least you can now buy slightly “eco-friendlier” disposable nappies these days. While it’s doubtful that they’re better for the environment than modern cloth, despite studies which may claim to the contrary (about which debate is continuing) they’re certainly better than traditional disposables.

EENEE DESIGNS Endorsed by Compost Australia as the first and only disposable acceptable for commercial composting. Eenee 100% Compostable nappies have won a Keep Australia Beautiful Award for Environmental Innovation. No harmful chemicals. Renewable plant based materials ensure sustainability. Order from www.eenee.com

However, some of the claims of biodegradability need to be carefully considered. According to our information, nappies can only biodegrade properly if they are exposed to sunlight and air - which is not going to happen if they’re wrapped in plastic and disposed of in rubbish landfills - and let’s face it, how many of us compost our nappies?

Choice Magazine makes the following recommendations of what to look for in an environmentally friendly disposable nappy: üT hird party certified by a reputable and independent organisation üC hlorine free. üR enewable materials, biodegradable content. ü ‘Ingredients’ noted, so you can avoid substances of concern to you, for example which you’ve discovered your baby’s skin is sensitive to. üC ompostable packaging: look for packaging that’s got ‘recycled content’ and is ‘recyclable’ üT ransport – a less obvious environmental impact. Is it imported which partially negates some of their environmental credentials?

Do the offset the emissions associated with importing the nappies?

Many thanks to Baby BeeHinds for assisting with the information for this article. They are a proudly Australian owned, award winning modern cloth nappy manufacturer who have been leading the revolution in MCNs for 10 years. As trusted & highly regarded leader in the industry, they have an excellent range of styles of nappies to suit every need. There is a great range of Trial Pack options available at great prices to get you started on your MCN journey! www.babybeehinds.com.au

A Bubeez Pro Pack Visit our website to enter www.kidsonthecoast.com.au/ competitions

All our venues are indoors Cash sales only No EFTPOS 32

Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

MOLTEX ECO NAPPIES 100% biodegradable outer lining, 40% biodegradable inner lining with 100% FSC certified wood pulp (from responsibly managed forests).

Reducing carbon footprint with ‘carbon neutral’s’ Plant-a-Tree program and ‘Trees for Life’ Australian native bushland regeneration program.

Order from www.ecodirect.com.au BAMBO NATURE NAPPIES The only nappy to have been awarded the Nordic Swan Eco Label, which has assessed the nappy’s environmental impact during its whole life cycle, including the way it’s produced and the way the raw materials are chosen and handled. Contain no PVC, perfumes, moisturising lotions, optical brighteners or chlorine, reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions or rashes. Absorbent core of fluff pulp plus 100% biodegradable wheat starch. Order from www.natureschild.com.au GENTLY HYBRID NAPPIES A tough, reusable and fully washable shell. Disposable inserts, allowing for the benefits of disposable, without the unnecessary waste. No bleaches or perfumes. Made from bio-plastics and corn starch to aid in biodegradability. Order from www.natureschild.com.au

FOR MORE NAPPY IDEAS, NAPPY BRANDS AND NAPPY INFORMATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE. REMEMBER TO LET US KNOW ABOUT YOUR FAVOURITE NATURAL, RECYCLABLE, ECO OR ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY NAPPY ON OUR WEBSITE OR EMAIL EDITORIAL@ KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU AND WE WILL ADD A PHOTO AND A WEBSITE/INFORMATION TO OUR NAPPY ARTICLE!

THE ULTIMATE MARKET FOR YOUR CHILDREN’S NEEDS NEW DATES FOR 2014

Macgregor July 20 | Upper Coomera July 27 | Runaway Bay August 24 Quality Pre-Loved, and New Products

Buy or Sell

www.zero2five.com.au

For stall holder enquiries please go to our ‘Booking’ link at www.zero2five.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN! Nickleby & Circuit the Robot Magic Show.

Step into the lab for a combination of free magic, comedy and science these school holidays.

WHEN: Mon 30 June – Fri 4 July TIME: 10am and 12pm daily shows

Tinker Bell and the Pirate Fairy Workshop.

Join in the fun and get creative with the fairy wand and pirate hat craft workshop.

WHEN: Mon 7 July – Fri 11 July TIME: 10am – 1pm daily WHERE: Both activities are located outside Target

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facebook.com/runawaybayshopping

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

CFS, Colonial First State and Commonwealth are used by CFX Co Limited and its subsidiaries under licence from each of Commonwealth Bank of Australia and The Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited (as applicable).

JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

33

ONLY NATURAL

Down with GI!

By Nadia Woods ONE OF THE MOST CHALLENGING THINGS PARENTS WILL FACE, IS RAISING CHILDREN TO BE FREE FROM THE TRAPS OF SUGAR. NOTICEABLY, THE WORLD HAS CHANGED SINCE MY CHILDHOOD, AND SUGAR SEEMS TO BE EVERYWHERE, IN MOST FOODS, AND UNDER THE DISGUISE OF VARIOUS NAMES/LABELS.

O

ur bodies were never meant to consume such large amounts of sugar, and the consequences of doing so affect the entire body. Excess sugar leads to many poor outcomes, from dental caries, to gut bacteria overgrowth, and of course behaviour and mood imbalances.

WHY IS LOW GI AN IMPORTANT TERM FOR OUR CHILDREN?

Consuming low GI enables the body to stabilise blood sugar levels and insulin production. Did you know that we can train our body’s insulin production and keep it in shape through the food choices we make, and the timing of our meals and snacks? Insulin is a hormone, which ‘responds’ or ‘reacts’ to what we eat, and when we eat. Over eating

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

and excessive consumption of sugar will lead to insulin being less responsive, thereby less effective. Just as relevant, under eating can switch our bodies into starvation mode, reduce our metabolism, and lead to unstabilised blood sugar levels.

It is extremely important, not only for children but us adults as well, is to ensure meals and snacks are timed according to your body’s needs. Hunger, no matter how brief, causes a drop in blood sugar levels, which snow balls by the mid-afternoon. I call this the ‘afternoon blues’. But symptoms can mimic mild anxiety, stress, and behavioural outbursts. As parents, regulating children’s meals and providing low GI diets can dramatically modify many behaviours and encourage relaxed and happy children.

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

ONLY NATURAL

OTHER BENEFITS OF A LOW GI DIET

Adopting a low GI diet has been shown in studies to increase the amounts of essential nutrients consumed during the day. The reason for this is that most of the ‘go to’ high GI foods are heavily processed and therefore void of nutrition. When we think carbs, we need to think whole grains and fibre. These foods will regulate our insulin levels, sustain our energy throughout the day, and lower our blood sugar levels. Just as importantly, whole grains and fibre rich foods will provide amazing health benefits based on the minerals and nutrients that they contain.

Consuming brown rice, whole grain breads and pastas, quinoa and whole grain, unprocessed breakfast cereals are essential for maintaining adequate levels of magnesium. Magnesium is required in our bodies for many things, especially for relaxation and a balanced mood.

Another important nutrient found in whole grains is fibre. Fibre is every man, woman and child’s best friend. Yes, without fibre in the diet we all will suffer constipation, haemorrhoids, bloating and digestive discomfort. When it comes to reducing sugar, fibre will regulate insulin and reduce blood sugar levels.

BREAKFAST

Insulin ‘training’ begins from the time you wake up. We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Research has shown the consumption of a good breakfast will: • increase the likelihood of meeting nutritional requirements for the day • increase fibre and whole grain intake • improve cognition and memory in children • is associated with a more positive mood • supports physical and mental wellbeing One of the most powerful things you can do to reduce your family’s sugar intake, and regulate mood, behaviour and energy levels is to choose whole grain, sugar free breakfast items. Shockingly, in some brands one cup of breakfast cereal can have up to 19 grams of added sugar!

Instead of reaching for the popular box of children’s cereals, try the following: • make up your own sugar free granola / muesli • buckwheat pancakes • whole grain toast with avocado or egg

World Health Organisation recommended daily limit

tsp

gram sugar

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Once digested, sugars and starches provide 16kj of energy per gram.

The World Health Organisation recommends no more than 10 percent of you daily kj requirements to consist of sugar. For an average person, 40 to 50 grams of sugar (or 10 to 12 teaspoons) per day would be the limit.

One teaspoon of sugar equals 4 grams of sugar, and one can of soft drink contains around 40 grams of sugar.

So determining how much sugar you consume takes a bit of work, especially when consuming processed foods and drinks. Start by being realistic about when and how you put sugar into your body, and allow sugar to enter your children’s diets. Take a stocktake and then you can visualise where to start in revamping your families diet.

A good food detective knows how to read labels and identify hidden sugars. Bread, crackers, dressings and sauces, yogurt and bottled drinks all contain sugar, and you will be amazed by the variations between different brands.

Once you are ready to tackle the issue and reduce your sugar intake, use the following tips for success.

TOP TIPS TO REDUCE SUGAR - FOOD SWAPPING

There are many ways to make nutritional ingredients taste fun and exciting for children. By ‘swapping out’ the high GI ingredients (cane sugar, honey, white processed flour) and ‘swapping in’ the low GI foods (coconut sugar, barley malt, wholemeal flours, quinoa, barley grains, brown rice) we suddenly have done double the work in the one move and are well on our way to being a SUPER PARENT. • coconut sugar (light) brown sugar still can be swapped ¾ cup coconut sugar for one cup sugar in recipes • did you know all recipes will work with reducing the sugar, start experimenting • applesauce or a table spoon of honey is enough to make sweet tasting banana muffins • using very ripe bananas will reduce the need for sugar at all • use sugar free products when choosing cocoa, cooking chocolate, cereals, drinks

As a bonus for your wise food choices, a good breakfast will increase satiety (sense of fullness) throughout the day, which will decrease hunger and over eating.

1 4

HOW MUCH SUGAR CAN WE EAT?

40-50 grams sugar

• muesli and granola do not need sugar and can be sweetened with coconut, goji berries, sultanas or pear. With dried fruit, it only takes a very small amount to dramatically sweeten the dish whilst adding fibre.

• agave, barley malt, rice syrup, maple syrup can be used in cooking and are lower GI to processed sugars and cane sugar. They come with added antioxidants.

• apple sauce (with no added sugar, or home made) can be used instead of a half cup of white sugar in baking recipes.

• processed dates can be swapped ⅔ cup for every cup of sugar • what is Rapadura? This is unrefined cane sugar, which means it retains its vitamins • have you tried this? cut fruit for a fruit salad, and squeeze some lemon over the top. The acidic lemon juice reacts with the fruit sugars and makes the fruit taste sweeter.

JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

35

ONLY NATURAL

BE A FOOD DETECTIVE!

Learn to identify hidden sugars on labels. Sugars occur naturally in foods, but are also added a number of times during the canning, processing and packaging of foods, much in the same way as salt is added as a preservative.

Some ingredients to watch out for are (of course sugar), glucose, sucrose, maltose, corn syrup, fructose, high fructose corn syrup, hydrolysed starch, lactose, mannitol, dextrose, fruit juice concentrate, galactose, polydextrose, sorbitol, zylitol, maltodextrin, turbinado and honey.

When we read some of those ‘chemical’ sweetener names, it is motivating for some home cooking. Many of these ‘sugars’ or ‘chemicals’ are likely to be causing behavioural changes in your children. One of the best things I did with my son years ago was to experiment with his food. I simply swapped the bought baked goods with home-made ones (yes it was a challenge).

I noticed a dramatic difference to his coping skills when he was tired, or when things didn’t go his way. Generally, he was better able to manage his emotions especially during times of fatigue. Whilst children are individual, and will react or not react to different food additives, being a food detective means investigating and determining what are your child’s food triggers.

One quick strategy I use for food shopping on the run is to look at where sugar sits in the order of ingredients on the label. For instance, if purchasing dark chocolate for cooking and not sure which one is healthier? The higher the cocoa the lower the sugar is a good general rule. Take a couple of dark cooking chocolate packets and compare the ingredients list. You will see some will have sugar as the second or even first ingredient, meaning that sugar is the predominant ingredient in that product. Others may show sugar towards the middle or end. Whilst it isn’t as detailed as reading the quantities it is great for when you are in a hurry or when your little one/s need to be shuttled out of the store.

What can I do as a parent? Make as much home-made food as possible and never assume food needs to be sweet for children to enjoy it.

I must stress, always avoid high fructose corn syrup. Research studies around the world have demonstrated the adverse effects of this additive. This sweetener not only is a high GI food additive, but has been proven to reduce the body’s natural stomach hormone which tells your brain that you are full and to stop eating. This chemical has been therefore linked with obesity and over eating disorders.

TEACH THE VALUE OF PRIVILEGES (OVER EXPECTATIONS) Sugary treats should not be expected, but seen as something to look forward to at special occasions. Set the tone for your children’s education into the world of food. Although young now, repetition and simple education on the facts of sugar will eventually form stable opinions and awareness in the minds of your children. It is amazing how intelligent is the mind of a child! Their young minds are so open to new things. Which is why advertising is so potent for them.

Over the years, children have always fascinated me in how naturally they comprehend things which are good and logical. That includes healthy eating and good nutrition. Your children will love hearing about their body being like a car, and the food is the fuel. Too much bad food causes problems with the car and it can't work as well. If it is normal in their world, if they know that special food is a treat and desert is not for every day, they will keep that for life.

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

REVAMP YOUR PANTRY! Have you ever looked inside your pantry and thought, “what is that?”

Switching to a low sugar or sugar free diet can only be successful if you have done the ground work first. That is, have stocked the pantry with the ‘swap’ list items, quality breakfast foods, ingredients to whip up a last minute batch of home-made healthy snacks or treats, and an emergency quick fix snack.

Yes, all of us need this emergency snack for those low times as a pick me up, or an attack of the sweet tooth. Let’s face it, we all have those moments. My favourite emergency sweet snacks (which are not that sugary and certainly not bad for you) are: • trail mix (made with pepitas, sunflower seeds, raw coconut, raw cacao nibs, and goji berries) • bliss balls (again full of seeds and raw cacao, plus a little barley malt or rice syrup).

Each of these work to appease a sweet tooth whilst providing protein (for blood sugar regulation), minerals (for relaxation), and are very filling in tiny amounts. Which is great.

SET AN EXAMPLE Again, what is normal and common place to children is what they will adopt. Snack on raw veg yourself if that is something you would love your kids to eat. Give it time and persist because once it has become a habit you will never look back.

Hide away the adult section of your pantry, meaning the really sugary treats such as last Valentine’s Day chocolate boxes and soft drink, and consume these when the kids are in bed. They honestly don’t need to know! And this is one thing you don’t need to share. Yes we may be setting a false example of a parent who never eats bad foods, ever, but I am sure we all do this in other areas. How many of us trick our children into thinking we have never said a bad word in our whole lives!

EASY ACCESS Make alternatives readily available, and this will create opportunities for children to develop self modified behaviours. When they open the fridge, let them see a ready to go plate of chopped celery, carrots, grated cheese and sultanas.

At the risk of sounding dull, I remember one of my favourite afternoon treats as a child was to eat frozen green peas from a mug. I called them green ice blocks (or was tricked into naming it that). As funny as it seems now, I actually still love green peas! What a great idea it was. Sure, as children we did eat sweet treats, it is comforting to know that we also ate plenty of fibre and nutrient rich vegetables. My introduction into food taught me that consuming fresh vegetables a couple times per day was and is normal. Thanks mum!

DRINK FOR HYDRATION ONLY! When thirsty, drink water and expect your children to do the same.

‘Fizzy drinks’ are for parties only, and fruit juices should be fresh, void of added sugar and watered down for young ones. Drinking water for hydration is something which must be taught in our younger years.

I see many adults in clinic who, like me have to train themselves to reach for water throughout the day. If this is not something which we grew up doing, it becomes something to master later in life.

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

ADVERTISEMENT/LOCAL BUSINESS

Are crooked teeth hereditary?

Increasingly, and often as a result of their own orthodontic treatment experience, parents are forcing the agenda and generating momentum towards non-invasive orthodontics without braces or extracting teeth. Rather than consent to the knowledge their children’s teeth may be damaged during a course of traditional treatment and most likely relapse afterwards, they are seeking out less invasive as well as earlier preventive options.

While well-informed parents are beginning to recognise the risks and limitations of braces and extractions and even questioning the long-term benefits of these treatments, often they remain unclear about the causes of their child’s crooked teeth. Three in four 21st century children have crooked teeth and often parents, as well as the dental professionals advising them, attribute the cause to hereditary factors where overly large teeth cannot fit into small jaws. However, rather than blame bad genetics for crooked teeth, modern research has produced evidence, which points to other causes.

Teeth do not become crooked by happenstance and the most up to date evidence reveals the majority of orthodontic problems are the result of incorrect jaw development. This restricted development limits the space available for erupting teeth and prevents them from emerging into their ideal natural position.

The easiest fix for this problem is to extract permanent, perfectly healthy, teeth then use braces to align the remaining teeth into underdeveloped jaws or use surgery as the final option in cases where the flawed development is extreme.

Unfortunately for countless orthodontic patients, these mechanical and invasive options are only able to treat the symptoms of crooked teeth and do not address the incorrect development causing it.

In addition to environmental factors such as the modern diet, this incorrect or inhibited development is in fact the result of poor myofunctional (tongue, cheek and lip functional) habits such as thumb sucking, reverse swallowing and mouth breathing. Fortunately, once the myofunctional causes of crooked teeth and incorrect facial growth have been recognised, early preventive options offer exceptional prospects for natural development and stable results without invasive treatments and these poor habits are easily identifiable in children as young as three to five-years-old.

In addition to catering for the escalating parental insistence on nontraditional treatment options, these options offer non-invasive, earlier and more stable treatments by addressing the causes inhibiting a child’s natural facial development as soon as they become evident. Rather than rely on extractions to create extra space for the teeth, braces to force teeth into alignment or surgery to re-shape the jaws, myofunctional pre-orthodontic treatment options are available and can address the problem earlier and far more effectively These early, preventive treatment options mean while many of their peers will be just starting to undergo traditional orthodontics, with questionable long-term benefits, children who are treated using these techniques will have undergone a pre-orthodontic option designed to unlock genetic growth potential and straighten teeth naturally. Myofunctional pre-orthodontic treatment methods offer a new and fresh approach to addressing the public demand for modern pre-orthodontic treatment options and provides a more natural approach to straightening teeth much sooner than braces.

Straight teeth the natural way

Are you concerned about your child’s crooked teeth?

Do you know there are options other than waiting for braces?

Myobrace Pre-Orthodontic Center® offers treatment that can straighten your child’s teeth, much sooner and without braces.

This involves wearing a removable Myobrace® appliance for just a few hours a day and while sleeping.

It’s a more ‘Natural Approach’ to straightening teeth, while your child is still growing. Suitable for children from 5 to 15.

Contact us today for your free consultation.*

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Upper Coomera • Robina • Brunswick Heads *Conditions apply, contact Myobrace Pre-Orthodontic Center® for details.

37

JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast 14/05/2014 4:43 pm

GOOD HEALTH

BE

BREAST AWARE it could save your life

CANCER COUNCIL QUEENSLAND SPOKESPERSON KATIE CLIFT REMINDS US OF THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DETECTION IN THE FIGHT AGAINST THE MOST COMMON CANCER DIAGNOSED IN QUEENSLAND WOMEN. When is the last time you checked your breasts?

Before you had children? Last month? Yesterday? For some of us, we can’t even recall the last time we took a few minutes to conduct a personal check for any changes. Yet, early detection remains one of the most important factors in beating breast cancer.

More than 2900 Queenslanders are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Queensland and around 500 die from the disease. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosed in Queensland women – and it’s the second biggest cancer killer of Queensland women.

It sounds simple and common sense enough – get to know your breasts, and if you notice any changes, make an appointment with your GP straight away.

So why are screening rates for women’s cancers so low? The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s latest figures show only 6 in 10 women in the target age groups for breast and cervical screening participated in the programs in 2011 or 2012 – similar to the rates in previous years.

While some women are screened privately, these are still alarmingly low figures. Some Queensland women may be missing out on or failing to follow up on reminder notices, or be simply too busy to make it to a scheduled appointment.

An improvement in the uptake of screening for breast cancer in the target age group is crucial – if cancer is found and treated early, there is an increased chance of surviving the disease. #itouchmyselfproject

So, Mums, do all you can to make it to your recommended screenings.

It’s equally important to be breast aware, to familiarise yourself with the normal look and feel of your breasts, and to see a doctor immediately if you notice any unusual breast changes.

In April, Cancer Council joined forces with marketing communications agency JWT Sydney to create a tribute to Chrissy Amphlett – the

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

I Touch Myself Project. Chrissy was passionate about spreading awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer and wanted her song ‘I Touch Myself’ to become an anthem for women’s health around the world.

A music video was launched featuring leading female artists Olivia Newton John, Megan Washington, Sarah McLeod, Katie Noonan, Sarah Blasko, Suze DeMarchi, Deborah Conway, Kate Ceberano, Little Pattie and Connie Mitchell in a tender rendition of Chrissy’s song.

Marking the first anniversary of Chrissy’s passing on 21 April 2014, the campaign asks women to ‘touch themselves’, reminding them to get to know the look and feel of their breasts.

The campaign is supported by a website: itouchmyself.org, and a social media campaign that encourages people to share how they’ve been touched by breast cancer using the hashtag #itouchmyselfproject on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook & Google+.

Through the combined support of the female vocalists and celebrity ambassadors including Deputy Opposition Leader Tanya Plibersek, celebrity chef Kylie Kwong and RocWiz’s Julia Zemiro, the campaign is set to become a media and social media circuit-breaker.

Our hope is that through campaigns like this, all women would get to know their breasts better, becoming breast aware and participating in recommended screening. Visit the website and social media links to share the anthem and this important reminder with your friends and family.

It’s crucial – even if you’re a busy Mum – to make the time to see your GP and take care of your health. A little bit of inconvenience now could save your life in the future, improving cancer survival rates and enabling less invasive treatment.

Your personal health is too important to ignore. For more information or advice about breast awareness and screening, please visit www.cancerqld.org.au or call our Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

The Varicose Vein Clinic The Varicose Vein Clinic is the center of excellence for the non-surgical treatment of varicose veins. Dr Paul Davis and his team combine excellent clinical results with compassionate care in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Winter is the ideal time for treatment to ensure beautiful vein free legs for summer.

Decide to do something about your veins today!

Our initial consultation has a fee of $160 with a Medicare rebate of $119.

FREE PREGNANCY CONSULTATIONS

Pregnancy is a wonderful time full of many changes.

Unfortunately one of those changes can be the development of varicose veins. Here at the varicose vein clinic we offer a free consultation and stocking fitting for pregnant women.

Call us on 1300 534 834 to book your appointment.

Compression stockings may be purchased at the time of the appointment.

Don’t put up with the pain aching and unattractive appearance of varicose veins any longer.

Take the first step, Decide today is the day you are going to walk proud. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Call 1300 LEG VEINS Or visit our website www.legveins.com.au 39 JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

GOOD HEALTH

LIFESTYLE

CHOICES SOME RISK FACTORS FOR BREAST CANCER ARE NOT EASY TO CHANGE, LIKE BEING FEMALE AND YOUR AGE, BUT THERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU CAN DO THAT MAY HELP REDUCE YOUR RISK OF BREAST CANCER.

Maintain a healthy body weight: being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly for women who have been through menopause.

Be physically active: regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight. Research suggests that vigorous exercise when you’re young might provide lifelong protection against breast cancer, and that even moderate physical activity as an adult can lower your risk of developing breast cancer.

Limit or avoid drinking alcohol: about 1 in 8 breast cancers may be attributable to alcohol consumption. If you do choose to drink, limit yourself to 1 standard drink a day.

Don’t smoke: there is no clear link between smoking and breast cancer, but toxins from cigarettes have been found in breast cells.

As smoking is a major cause of heart disease, lung cancer and many other cancers, not smoking is always a smart health choice.

BREAST CANCER: WHAT TO DO AT DIFFERENT AGES

25 to 40

40 to 49

50 to 74

75 or over

You know your breasts, but what is ‘your’ normal when it comes to look and feel?

Talk to your doctor and establish if a mammogram is right for you.

You should be having a mammogram every two years.

Call BreastScreen on 13 20 50 to book a free mammogram.

Talk to your doctor to ask if you should continue to have mammograms.

DON’T HESITATE TO SEEK HEALTH ADVICE IF YOU NOTICE ANY CHANGES. If there is a history of cancer in your family, talk to your doctor.

If you are aged between 40 to 49 you are eligible for a free breast screening.

YOU ALSO NEED TO KNOW WHAT IS NORMAL WHEN IT COMES TO LOOK AND FEEL, AND DON’T HESITATE TO SEEK HEALTH ADVICE IF YOU NOTICE ANY CHANGES.

30 MINUTES EVERY TWO YEARS CAN OFFER PEACE OF MIND.

Women over 75 may also have free breast screening mammograms as recommended by your doctor.

Get to know your breasts, get to know what is normal when it comes to the look and feel of your breasts and seek health advice if you notice any changes.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT CANCER COUNCIL HELPLINE 13 11 20 OR CANCERQLD.ORG.AU

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Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

COAST LIFE

Coast Life shares exciting products and services by businesses that cater to Gold Coast parents and families. We think local kids and parents deserve just as much choice, style, fun, innovation and value for money as those living anywhere else. So if you agree, please join us in helping these ventures by taking a look at what they’ve got to offer.

And if you’ve got a business you want to spread the word on, let us know!

AS YOU WISH Ph: 0400 789 768 www.as-you-wish.com.au

A.B. PATERSON COLLEGE Ph: 07 5561 4140 www.abpat.qld.edu.au Choosing the right school for your family isn’t an easy decision. A.B. Paterson College understands this. Visit the campus and see for yourself why A.B. Paterson College, a place of outstanding educational opportunities and offerings, could be the right choice for your family. Developing young men and women of character – leaders now and for the future.

As You Wish is a girls pamper party experience. Where your daughter and her friends will be pampered like princesses. We come to you all over the Gold Coast.

For 2 hours, 2 trained professionals will pamper your princess and her friends from head to toe, then girls dance with disco lights and play party games. Party food is served and princesses receive gift bags. Call to organise your girls party.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC MUMMY TREE MARKETS Ph: 07 5534 5557 www.ismgoldcoast.com.au

Come and explore music with your child at the International School of Music.

With age appropriate courses you know you are receiving the best music education, delivered by qualified teachers in an exciting group environment.

Jitterbugs - 2 yr olds. Little Beebopper - 3 yr olds. Pianorama Junior - 4-6 yr olds.

Pianorama Primary - 7 yrs up. Individual tuition available. Your kids will LOVE IT!!

www.themummytreemarkets.com.au

Offering high quality, unique and inspired items not found in main stream stores, the MUMMY TREE markets feature gorgeous hand-made children’s clothing and accessories, toys, jewellery, home décor items, ladies fashion and much more.

FREE entry, parking and pram access, children’s entertainment and yummy food.

Once you have been to the MUMMY TREE markets, you will return again and again.

GOLD COAST NANNIES

KIDS ON THE COAST MAGAZINE

Ph: 0431 301 916 www.goldcoastnannies.com.au

Ph: 1300 430 320 www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Established in 2007, Gold Coast Nannies is a boutique Nanny and Babysitting Agency offering a range of child care solutions to match the needs of families. All Gold Coast Nannies are experienced, reliable, trustworthy, honest, dedicated, and highly experienced with children of all ages. Blue Card and First Aid Certificates.

Gold Coast Nannies endeavour to find that special nanny for your whole family! www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Spotlight your business in our new Coast Life section. Over the last ten years Kids on the Coast Magazine has built an enviable reputation as the favourite family magazine to thousands of families across the Gold Coast. Loyal readers actively seek out Kids on the Coast. To reach our highly targeted engaged audience contact Louisa 1300 430 320 or email gc@kidsonthecoast.com.au JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014 – Kids on the Coast

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BOOKS, MOVIES, APPS, GAMES

REVIEWS

APPS SLICE LAVA APP (Android USD$2.99, Apple $3.79, Amazon/Kindle Fire USD$2.99) With over 60 fun puzzles, Slice Lava is designed for kids and also challenging for adults! It’s all about maths and testing logic in a fun manner. Learn fraction concepts by slicing shapes. No words. No maths drill. Slice Fractions offers a safe digital environment, without banner advertising or in-app purchases.

For ages 5+

BUG ART (iPad, iPhone, iPod $0.99) Imagine, create, and play with Little Bit Studio’s newest app, Bug Art. Watch your child’s creations coming to life. Uniquely combining the abilities to create and play, Bug Art allows your child to paint, design, and explore in a whimsically styled setting. No third party advertising or in-app purchases. Fun for most ages.

BOOKS THE BOY ON THE PAGE Peter Carnavas, New Frontier Publishing, RRP $24.95 A small boy lands on the page and, quite by accident, discovers the joy and wonder of life. A beautifully illustrated, quirky book that questions our purpose – why are we here? A sweet and positive message is entwined in the developing story. Different meanings will be interpreted by different ages. From 4+

THE ADVENTURES OF SCOOTERBOY AND SKATERGIRL Andy Jones, ABC Books, RRP $12.99 Cool can mean a lot of things. Amazing, wicked, awesome, epic, radical, insane, ridiculously good and, of course – cold! Meet Skatergirl. She has cool hair, she wears cool clothes and she rides a really cool skateboard. Basically, she’s naturally cool.

Meet Scooterboy. He’s … well … let’s just say that being cool does NOT come naturally to him. But when Scooterboy and Skatergirl get together, HILARITY ensues. Cheeky, funny and packed with cartoon-style illustrations and moments that will have you laughing out loud, this collection of short stories from children’s entertainer Andy Jones is perfect for reluctant readers and fans of Andy Griffiths. For ages: 8-12

MOVIES HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2 (3D) In Cinemas June 19 The thrilling second chapter of the epic How to Train Your Dragon trilogy returns to the fantastical world of the heroic Viking Hiccup and his faithful dragon Toothless. The inseparable duo must protect the peace –and save the future of men and dragons from the power-hungry Drago. Starring Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson and America Ferrara.

TINKERBELL: THE PIRATE FAIRY In Cinemas June 26 When a misunderstood dust-keeper fairy named Zarina steals Pixie Hollow's all-important Blue Pixie Dust, and flies away to join forces with the pirates of Skull Rock, Tinker Bell and her fairy friends must embark on the adventure of a lifetime to return it to its rightful place. However, in the midst of their pursuit of Zarina, Tink's world is turned upside down. She and her friends find that their respective talents have been switched and they have to race against time to retrieve the Blue Pixie Dust and return home to save Pixie Hollow.

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

Kids on the Coast – JUNE / JULY / AUGUST 2014

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au