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CONTeNTS June/July 2010 21
10 Welcome to
Kids on the Coast
6 FEATURE Find out about fostering 3
WELCOME
4
WHAT’S NEWS
6
FEATURE Find out about fostering
10 THE “P” FILES The transition from kid to adult: Chrysalis to butterfly
13 CHECK THIS OUT Someone close to me this week said “happiness is a byproduct of trying to do something good in this world”. His comment struck a cord and it was timely when you consider we just celebrated Volunteer Week. As parents, many of us give our valuable time without much thought. We sizzle sausages to raise money, partake in school working bees and traipse behind our children as they sell chocolates door to door (buying and consuming the last couple of bars in desperation). At times I feel our ‘state-funded’ school system would crumble at the foundations without the countless selfless hours of parents. Perhaps this contribution should be considered when it comes to tax time… but that’s another soap box! As we discovered in our feature, some of us go way beyond expectations and partake in these activities for children who are not our own. To all those foster carers out there, I tip my hat in awe. If happiness is indeed the reward you deserve every warm and fuzzy feeling. Sarah Pye, Editor www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
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New and innovative ideas in parenting
14 NEW TO THE COAST 16 WHAT’S ON CALENDAR
21 BABIES ON THE COAST Babysitting clubs: The new support network
24 LET’S CELEBRATE The world of party invitations
26 HAPPY HOLIDAYS A world away in Vanuatu
28 HEALTH Painful feet
29 REVIEWS AND COMPETITIONS 30 KIDS ON THE COAST DIRECTORY
The Kids on the Coast guide to June/July
18 EDUCATION Ideas for raising funds
16
READ MORE ONLINE! om.au www.kidsonthecoast.c
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
PUBLISHED BY: THINGS 4 KIDS PTY LTD. PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562 PHONE: 1300 430 320 FAX: 07 5476 6037 WEB: www.kidsonthecoast.com.au ABN: 86 473 357 391. All editorial in Kids on the Coast has been written in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Kids on the Coast is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Feedback/comments/suggestions? Send to: editorial@kidsonthecoast.com.au We aim to reply to all correspondence but don’t guarantee to do so. Letters to the editor may be edited for length or clarity. PUBLISHER: Toni Eggleston EDITOR: Sarah Pye EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Maxine Arthur, Cindy Mayes, Dr Scott Parsons, Kim Robins. ADVERTISING: For advertising enquiries please phone Tanya Ryan on 1300 430 320 or email: advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY: Speak with your advertising coordinator or email: advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au PRODUCTION COORDINATOR: Terri Sanderson, email: production@kidsonthecoast.com.au ADMINISTRATION: Kellie Kruger DISTRIBUTION: Kids on the Coast (Gold Coast edition) is a free publication circulating over 25,000 copies from Coomera to Coolangatta. A separate edition covers the Sunshine Coast. For distribution enquiries please phone: 1300 430 320 or email: admin@kidsonthecoast.com.au FRONT COVER: Andrea Sproxton GRAPHIC DESIGN: Michelle Craik
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In an effort to improve the financial literacy of Australian primary children, Commonwealth Bank has launched a free online money management game. Coinland is an animated virtual world which helps kids learn about money and saving through practical scenarios, while giving parents the confidence their children are learning within a safe online environment. Players can earn virtual coins by doing various jobs, save their coins by depositing them in the bank and spend coins to pay for treats. Visit www.coinland.com.au
PARTY ON FOR CHARITY If the idea of hosting a kid’s birthday party makes you sigh, a unique new website which aims to teach your kids the value of giving might be just what you are looking for. Website www.generousparty.com makes party planning a cinch for busy parents by offering free e-invitations, free thank you e-cards and even managing RSVPs. Guests donate online to a children’s charity rather than bringing a wrapped gift. The donation is then split 50/50 between the nominated not-for-profit and the hosting parent for the purchase of a special gift for the child on behalf of all their guests (less a 15% administration fee). Generous Party currently supports: Room to Read, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, ActionAid Australia, St Laurence Community Services and Live and Learn Environmental Education.
SCHOOLS DOING THE BRIGHT THING Queensland state schools are on their way to saving more than 20,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year thanks to the installation of solar power panels, as part of the Queensland Government’s $60 million Solar and Energy Efficiency in State Schools program. Education Minister Geoff Wilson said schools would receive an energy monitoring system so staff and students could monitor how much energy their new solar panels and energy efficient lighting were saving. “Not only does this save energy, but it’s also a great learning tool for teachers and students showing in practical ways how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” he said.
AIRPORT MARATHON LAUNCHES SCHOOL’S CHALLENGE FOR 2010 Local primary and high school students are encouraged to get active and enter the Gold Coast Airport Marathon’s new School’s Challenge. Kids who enter the event’s Queensland Health Junior Dash (4km or 2km) can nominate their school for great prizes, including coaching clinics and visits from the Gold Coast Titans, Gold Coast Blaze, Gold Coast United and Gold Coast FC, and school excursions to local theme parks. Students enter online at www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au
PRODUCT SAFETY WARNING ON BABY SLINGS
The Office of Fair Trading is warning Queensland parents and caregivers to be cautious when using baby slings on babies younger than four months old. Minister Peter Lawlor said three babies in the United States died last year as a result of suffocation while in a baby sling. Suffocation can be caused by either a sling’s fabric pressing against a baby’s nose and mouth and blocking their breathing, or babies without strong neck control flopping their head forward and restricting their ability to breathe. “It is recommended that parents and caregivers make sure the infant’s face is not covered and is visible at all times,” Mr Lawlor said.
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FEATURE
Stepping in to fill the
FOSTER PARENTS HELP RAISE THE NEXT GENERATION by Maxine Arthur
“I am strong when I am on your shoulders. You raise me up… to more than I can be.” The words of Josh Groban’s inspirational song describe the challenge of parenting well and it is a challenge most parents relish. The occasional bumps along the way are far outweighed by the joy of seeing a child grow to successful adulthood in a nurturing family. But what if parents are unable to fulfill this role? What happens to those children?
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Ideally, the wider community takes responsibility for ensuring that all children in the community grow up in a safe and caring environment. In Australia, the Child Protection Act (1999) is based on the principle that “The welfare and best interests of a child are paramount”. In line with the belief that “The preferred way of ensuring a child’s wellbeing is through support of the child’s family”, the Government has a variety of agencies working to help families function better. The Act also states that if a child is removed from the family (in the child’s best interests), the aim is to safely return the child to the family if possible. Under the Act, every effort must be made to maintain the child’s family and social contacts, taking into account the child’s ethnic and cultural identity. In June 2008 the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reported that 31,166 Australian children were living in out-of-home care, an increase of 115% over the previous 10 years. As our society has moved away from institutionalised care to home-based care most of these children are now being cared for by foster carers in their own homes. Non-kinship carers (unrelated to the child) care for 48% of fostered children and Aboriginal and Torres Straits children are fostered within their own communities (as far as possible) so that they maintain their cultural identities. Thus, 45% of fostered children are in kinship care (extended family or within the indigenous community).
determine no further action is needed or that family support to strengthen the parent’s abilities to care for their child is the best option. If, however, the assessment is that it is unsafe for the child to remain in the home, DCS may apply to the family court for the child to be placed on a care and protection order.
Why children are fostered While some children may be in short-term care due to parental illness or an inability to care for the child temporarily, most are placed in foster care under this type of order. The Raising Children Network website says that reasons why children are fostered include: • The home life of the biological parent is unhealthy or inadequate for the child. • Domestic violence, sexual assault or physical abuse may be occurring in the home. • Parents may be in jail or suffering drug abuse, mental health issues or intellectual disability. The move to home-based care has meant an ever-increasing need for suitable foster carers – families who will open their hearts and homes to a child or young person needing a safe, stable and loving environment in which to heal and grow. In May 2008 the Queensland Government committed more than $15 million over five years to a campaign “to recruit, train and increase support for foster and kinship carers” (Department of Child Safety website).
Who decides if a child is in need of foster care?
Foster care on the Coast
The Department of Child Safety (DCS) is the leading child protection agency in Queensland. It works to ensure that Queensland children are safe from abuse, neglect and harm in their homes. Of course, the whole community has a responsibility to protect all of its children. Anyone who knows or suspects that a child is being abused or neglected is urged to report it to the DCS or local police. When DCS receives information about harm or the risk of harm, its officers investigate to assess whether a child is in need of protection. Officers may
Department of Communities principal media officer Casey McCarthy says there is a world-wide trend towards “an increasing demand for services to protect vulnerable children and young people” as a consequence of “rapid social, cultural and economic changes”. “We particularly need carers who can provide a home and support to adolescents, children with disabilities, children with challenging behaviour, kinship carers who can ensure indigenous children on the Coast can maintain their cultural links and carers who can take sibling groups,” Casey says.
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FEATURE Casey says that becoming a carer is a serious decision but a carer can be an individual, couple or family. Casey recommends sitting down with your partner, your children or other significant people in your life to consider questions such as the following: • What other stresses are there on our family at the current time? • Is this a good time to invite new challenges? • How would we cope with the uncertainty of the length of stay of children in our care? • How would we cope if a child or young person placed in our home has difficult or out-of-the-ordinary behaviours? • Can we cope with a child or a young person returning to the care of their parents when we feel that they may not provide the same standard of care that we have? • How will our family adjust to the addition of other members? What changes, compromises or sacrifices will need to be made? Is everyone prepared to make these changes? • If in a relationship - is our relationship strong enough at this time for us to work as a team and support one another? • If single - have I considered the lifestyle changes and loss of privacy associated with sharing my home with a child or young person? If you have done some research (see fact box) and consulted loved ones, you may wish to contact the Foster Care Recruitment Line on 1300 550 877. Be assured that there is a wealth of information, training and support available to help you once you take that step.
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Training the carers Casey explains the training program: “Training is provided while prospective new carers are undergoing assessment. This training is designed to give prospective carers an idea of the various scenarios and issues they are likely to encounter as foster parents as well as introducing them to departmental legislation and policy,” she says. “Carers can opt out at this point if they feel that foster caring isn’t for them.” Further standard training is given to carers once they are approved and “an extensive training calendar is developed each year giving carers a wide choice of training to meet individual needs and circumstances”.
Supporting the carers Casey says The Department of Communities recognises that carers who feel supported in their challenging role are better able to provide quality care. In addition to the training program each carer is provided with a Carer Handbook to help them with day-to-day issues. A support line is also available on evenings and weekends. Foster and kinship carers sometimes need a break from caring. Support carers are available to provide regular short periods of care for a child or care in emergency situations. They go through the same training and assessment processes but are able to determine their own availability, for example, weekends or holidays. Some go on to commit to long-term foster caring.
A long-term carer’s view Hazel and Garry Little have been foster carers for 28 years. They have three children (now adults) and six grandchildren. Hazel is Vice President of FCQ and a FAST delegate. Hazel and Garry began foster caring in Brisbane when their youngest had just started school. Hazel says she wanted to work from home in a job that would sit well with her family commitments. She felt she had an ability to care for children, including children with disabilities, and an understanding of child health and safety, and educational issues. Specialising in Open ended vasectomy and microsurgical vasectomy reversals
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Support for foster carers Foster Care Queensland (FCQ) is a support and advocacy organisation open to all foster and kinship carers, their families and the children in their care. The FCQ website is also a useful source of information for potential carers who may be willing to “stretch their family circle” to care for children “during a very difficult time in their lives”. One of FCQ’s practical support measures for carers is provided by their Foster Care Advocacy and Support Team (FAST). They are specially trained local foster carers who have volunteered to provide support, advice and advocacy for carers in their area.
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Financial support for foster carers The Department of Child Safety website gives the following information on financial support available to foster carers: • A fortnightly caring allowance is paid to foster and kinship carers as a contribution toward the costs of caring for the child or young person placed with them. It covers items such as food, clothing, household provisions, gifts, pocket money, entertainment and other everyday costs of caring for a child. • In addition, financial support is available at the start of a child or young person’s placement with a carer, when costs are likely to be high. • A one-off start-up allowance is provided to carers when a child stays in a placement for five consecutive nights or more.
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• Carers also receive a one-off establishment payment when a child or young person comes onto a finalised Child Protection Order. An additional allowance is provided to carers if the child is assessed as having high support needs. • One-off funding of $300 per child in care is available to help children in foster or kinship care participate in sport and recreation activities during 2010. • Assistance may also be available to carers for reimbursement of substantial additional costs when they form part of the case plan for the child or young person in care.
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Hazel identifies with this comment. She says the decision to foster has had a positive effect on her family as well. “It gave our own children a better outlook on life – it made them better adults and better parents,” she says. “They learned to share and realised that some children don’t have a very good start to life.” Hazel has continued as a carer for 28 years because “You become involved with children and families. I made a commitment and I wanted to see it through.” Hazel says it is important to the child to have stability and as few moves (between foster homes) as possible. She listed important characteristics of successful carers as a sense of commitment, flexibility, a sense of humour and the ability to be non-judgemental. Hazel acknowledged the challenges of foster caring and says matching children’s needs with the best family available is sometimes difficult. “In some cases, children’s needs have become more complex,” she explains. She believes one of the major challenges of fostering is dealing with ‘external factors’ – such as schools, counsellors, health agencies and maintaining links with the child’s family. But Hazel is focused on the bigger picture. To see children’s lives turned around is reward enough for Hazel and her family. Hazel recently attended a wedding of a 20-year-old young woman that she cared for in the first 12 months of life – and shed a few happy tears! “ You can’t save the world but you can make a difference in a child’s life,” she says.
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Need more information? Child safety: www.childsafety.qld.gov.au Foster Carer Recruitment Line: 1300 550 877. Foster Care Queensland: www.fcq.com.au Raising Children: www.raisingchildren.net.au
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THE ‘P’ FILES by Sarah Pye
It seems like only yesterday you were bringing them home from the hospital wrapped up in swaddling and smelling like baby powder. Now, looking at the child before you it’s easy to imagine they will be flying the nest before you blink. “Eight to 10 is the best age of all,” I have heard many parents remark and behind that benign comment seems to be an underlying worry that, their darling offspring will transform into a moody, hormonal stranger. Puberty (any time from 9-16) is a time of physical changes, emotional changes and a growing understanding of sexuality, many of which take place well before outward signs. So, what happens during this time, and how can you best support your child through this huge growth period?
Coping with physical changes Remember how your body seemed like it didn’t belong to you when you were pregnant? Puberty has an equally extreme effect and it’s no wonder teens and pre-teens seem to spend much longer sleeping. Their bodies are working hard on the inside.
From chrysalis to
butterfly COPING WITH THE TRANSITION TO ADULTHOOD
Photo courtesy Ingrid Jellick
As a parent, tact is the order of the day because your teen might not talk about their experiences. Besides the easily noticeable changes, there are many smaller ones of which only they will be aware. Two thirds of boys, for instance, develop swelling and tenderness around their nipples which can last up to 18 months. Hormones trigger embarrassing erections during the day (mortifying if they are talking to an attractive girl at the time) and sexual dreams at night leading to ejaculation (wet dreams). As their genitals grow, boys are sometimes concerned because, in most males, one testicle hangs lower than the other. The voice too, can cause embarrassment as it ‘cracks’. Alternating between sounding like a girl and a rugby player can be especially hard for those boys interested in singing or public speaking. Body odour appears with hormonal changes too, making this a time when hygiene becomes much more important for both boys and girls. A little reassurance can go a long way. ADVERTISEMENT/LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE
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For girls the most major change is the onset of menstruation, but bodily changes start way before this milestone. In our last issue we talked about body image and, with the onset of puberty (or pre-puberty), this becomes a very real concern for girls. They start putting on weight in areas which have, up until then, been flat and straight. This can be worrying if they don’t know what to expect. Their hips will widen, and breasts will appear. Some girls experience lumps and tenderness while their breasts are growing and without reassurance they can think they are deformed.
Emotional changes As if all these physical changes weren’t enough to cause anxiety, the body ‘ups the ante’ with a rush of male or female hormones and the side effect can be extreme mood swings. This is what sends parents into a corner, cowering and wishing they could hibernate for a few years. It’s easily said, but it’s appropriate to try and remember your much-loved son or daughter is still inside that volatile body. There are numerous books to help you through this challenging period. Perhaps one of the better ones is Surviving Adolescents by Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, one of Australia’s leading authorities on teenage behaviour. This down-to-earth manual covers areas like sexuality, risky behaviours, managing the stress, setting limits and other issues. For more information visit www.penguin.com.au
Sexual awareness As parents you might have discussed how you are going to broach the birds and bees with your kids. Maybe you have decided to come from a strictly anatomically correct version of sexual intercourse, or choose to focus more on the emotional side (they don’t call it `making love’ for nothing!). Maybe you have particular family values and/ or religious beliefs which you want to make sure you pass on to your children. Whatever your approach, or lack thereof, your children WILL make the transition from child to adult – with or without any help from you, but experts believe these emerging sexual changes can be overwhelming for children if they are not properly supported. Family Planning Queensland’s regional education coordinator Jo Stewart says preparing your child for these transitions well ahead can make it a much smoother
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D E R U C E UNS
LOANS
xPuberty in boys Puberty in girlsx
xVoice changes or breaks, xeventually becoming deeper
Hair growing under the armsx and in the pubic area
xHair growing under arms and in the pubic area
Skin changes, includingx pimples for some girlsx
xFacial hair growing – some xboys will start shaving
A growth spurt
Pimples for some boys
Some weight gain
Growth spurt
Hips get wider
xShoulders and chest get broader
Breasts develop
xErections happen more often
Menstruation begins (periods)x
xSperm start being produced in the testicles
Ability to become pregnantx once periods start
Wet dreams can happen
Awareness of sexual feelings in the body
Awareness of sexual feelings in the body
Mood swings
Mood swings
ride. “Communicating about sexuality is an ongoing responsibility, not a one-off talk,” she says. “One or two lessons are not enough.” While some parents are bombarded with questions and the only trick is finding the time to answer them, other children appear not to be interested and it can be hard to start a conversation on sexuality. “A lot of parents have said to us that they get information about what’s going on in their children’s lives by listening to the kids in the back seat of the car,” Jo says, “I think that’s always a great opener and you can bring up these things later.”
F R O M
A G E S
2
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3/28 Hutchinson St, Burleigh Heads • Ph: 5520 5702 JUNE / JULY 2010 – KiDs on tHe CoAst
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THE ‘P’ FILES
Playground comments
Sexual orientation One of the harder questions to answer is that of sexual orientation. When is it too soon to make kids aware of different lifestyles? How do you handle the subject if you think your child might be gay? Samantha Howard-Van Beek runs her own family counselling practice in Brisbane and works for Relationships Australia. She is also a lesbian who struggled with sexual identity in her youth, and a mother of four young children. When it comes to broaching sexuality with your kids, Sam says there’s a popular misconception that if you talk about these things your kids are more likely to go out and do them. “Actually research shows the opposite,” she says. Sam says children need information and they need to be provided with appropriate answers. “It is also about parents broaching it so it doesn’t become taboo,” she says. If you don’t feel comfortable with the task yourself, she suggests thinking of someone else with whom they can have this discussion. “We have called on family to help [our eight year old] with questions about his body,” she says. In her youth, Sam grappled with questions around her own sexuality. Although her family did not outwardly give the feeling that her orientation was a problem, she says their actions painted a different picture. “Parents lock into dreams of their children getting married and having kids one day,” she says. “That may or may not happen, which can create a conflict for a child who thinks they will disappoint their parents.” By waiting for their children to ‘come out’, she says parents risk losing connection. Sam believes encouraging a potentially gay child into traditional gender activities (like football or dance) when their inclination lies elsewhere, can cause them to build two different lives and juggling them can become quite stressful. “Their family might know them as one person but they have a whole other identity their family doesn’t know about,” she says. “If those identities clash it can be disastrous.” Sometimes, she adds, this even results in suicide. NEW R NOW A ANGE V ALSO C AILABLE A FEET, H PTURING ANDS ARTWO AND RK
Capture your child’s fingerprint in silver Necklaces Charms Cufflinks Keyrings Gift Vouchers Precious jewellery touched by someone you love
To book now or enquire contact Iris on 0408 454 020 or visit www.smallp.com.au today! 12
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Being different is a recipe for teasing at school: We all know how cruel the playground can be. With children developing physically at different rates, the last few years of primary school can be challenging for those early developers. The most important thing you can give your child is reassurance but, if more is needed, most schools have an active anti-bullying program. Playground comments also hit hard when they refer to sexuality and Sam says anti-homophobia programs are less common. On top of that, the taunt “You’re/that’s so gay” has become almost a throw-away line. If your child is on the receiving end of such comments, Sam says it’s important to first determine if the comments are directed at them. If they are, she suggests finding out how they feel about it. Above all she believes honesty is the best policy. “Your kids are going to find out about sexuality. You have the opportunity to help them find out, or you let someone else do it.” Through the ages, the transition from child to adult has been one marked with challenge for both the participant and the parent. Many of us approach this period with apprehension. Almost like a soldier heading for war, we hope courage will prevail in the face of adversity. Also like the soldier, the more prepared we are for the onslaught, the better the chance of getting through intact and the greater the chance our children will emerge from the chrysalis as well-rounded adults. For more information: Kids Help Line: 1800 55 1800 The Hormone Factory (great website for kids and parents to go through together): www.thehormonefactory Heath Insite (good information on puberty): www.healthinsite.gov.au Family Planning Queensland: www.fpq.com.au. Brisbane: 3250 0240. Sunshine Coast: 5479 0755. Gold Coast: 5531 2636 PFLAG (parents and friends of lesbians and gays): Phone: 3017 1739 or visit: www.pflagaustralia.org.au Samantha Howard-Van Beek, Resolve Matters: resolvematters@optusnet.com.au Relationships Australia: Phone: 1300 364 277or visit: www.relationships.com.au Kids Health (a great site where kids can find answers to their questions about their body changes): www.kidshealth.org
WIN a Nintendo Wii Pack Join Team Pelican Kids Club today and be automatically entered into the draw to win a Nintendo Wii pack. Every new member also receives a free cap! Team Pelican is open to kids aged 3 to 11 years. Visit www.thepineselanora.com.au to join. (Draw closes on 30 July 2010 at 1pm. See full terms and conditions at www.thepineselanora.com.au)
Cnr K.P McGrath Drive & Guineas Creek Road. Elanora, 4221 PH: 5534 6722 www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
24/05/10 11:48 AM
K C e CH
THIS OUT
our guide to interesting & essential bits & pieces
REST IN COMFORT
Although it’s imperative to place your baby on his or her back to sleep, to avoid SIDS, one of the side-effects can be positional Plagyocephalia or ‘flat head’. Made from memory foam with a soft cotton cover, this small baby head-rest has been designed to reduce this occurrence in babies 0-4 months. A hole in the centre of the cushion provides gentle support to the baby’s head while reducing the risk of flat spots forming. RRP $40. Available at Bubs, Helensvale, Babies Galore, Parkwood, Pram Warehouse, Robina, Babybizz, Burleigh and Baby Barn, Tweed or visit www.urbanbaby.com.au
FUN AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Every now and again an invention makes you wonder ‘Why didn’t I think of that?”. This is one of them. Kids love tattoos and Animal Hands are just as cool as regular tattoos but have the added bonus of sparking hours of imaginary fun. They come in packs of eight, are easily applied with water and non-toxic. Although not suitable for kids under three, they are great for other hands of any size. Packs come in animal or monster designs. Available through www.collectionofcool.com.au for $17.50.
SHOP IN STYLE
Let’s face it - parents were just not made with enough hands or pockets! This shopping caddy can help: It fits right on the back of a pram or stroller and includes a large centre storage area plus side pockets for things like bottles and nappies. There are even hidden pockets for your purse and phone. The Shopping Caddy comes in hard-wearing black with red trim or navy with orange trim. It is Australian designed and backed by the 12-month warranty. RRP $65. Available at www.shoppingcaddy.com.au or www.mummyslittlehelpers.com.au
BATH ON THE RUN
Danish ingenuity combined with stylish looks make this folding bath a great addition to your camping kit if you have babies or toddlers. The Flexi Bath is available in six funky colours. It is PVC and Phthalates-free and has a non-slip bottom making it safe on a camping table top (with supervision). RRP: $65. Available at Belly to Baby and Bubs Baby Shops. Alternatively, visit www.arealcoolworld.com.au
SNACK WITH A DIFFERENCE
Kids love frozen snacks, and this one comes with the added bonus that it’s tasty AND healthy. These glutenfree yoghurt sticks are available in packs of four tubes. Where possible, they use Australian organically grown produce and they are made locally. The taste is much creamier than similar products and guaranteed to be an after-school hit. RRP: $7 each box. Available at many IGA stores.
SICK OF PARTIES?
How do you avoid spreading the flu along with ‘the love’ at birthday parties? The new Slobber Stopper might be the answer. Made of reusable food-grade plastic, this cake cover keeps the cake safe behind a transparent barrier while still allowing kids to blow out the candles. This innovative device is available in three sizes starting from $6 and available at www.slobberstopper. com.au. A percentage of all proceeds goes to the Sydney Children’s Hospital.
TRAVEL LIGHT, TRAVEL CUTE
Kids on the Go leather-look luggage tags give their baggage a funky flair (and they are easy to spot on the carousel). Attach to carryon bags as a creature companion, or jazz up backpacks for school excursions. Kids will love the cartoon-like characters including dogs, cats, frogs, monkeys and koalas, sharks and kangaroos. RRP: $10. For stockists phone: 5593 4755 or visit: www.annabeltrends.com www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
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W e N
TO THET COAS
a Kids on the Coast advertising feature
‘New to the Coast’ is a way in which Kids on the Coast can support new 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 new ventures to get off the ground by taking a look at what they’ve got to offer. And if you’ve got a new business you want to spread the word on, let us know!
Camping made easy
Modern manners
If the hard work of stacking and unloading equipment into the car and cleaning up afterwards is stopping you from camping then Camp Ezy is for you.
We all love it when visiting kids remember their “Ps and Qs” and, if you are anything like me, you cross your fingers and hope your own offspring are just as polite when they are away from home.
This innovative company packs a camper trailer with beds, chairs, tables, crockery, cutlery, a fridge and even mosquito coils and dishwashing soap. All you have to do is hook it up and drive away for as little as $55 per day for a three-day weekend. Camp Ezy offers a range of on-road or off-road models in reputable brands like Cub, Lifestyle, and Desert Edge. It’s a great way to go if you are new to camping, don’t have space to store a camper trailer, or want to try different models before buying. Camping has never been so easy! Phone: 5594 4402 or visit www.campezy.com.au
Heidi from Manners Maketh says it’s all about you, and I, respect and how we treat one another. People everywhere talk about the decline of respect and civility in society today. Heidi developed Manners Maketh to support parents and teachers in their quest to teach respect and etiquette. She presents a variety of topics using laughter and activities that children enjoy and remember. “Manners make life more pleasant for everyone,” she says. For more information phone Heidi on 1300 376 040.
Take the kids
ETIQUETTE FOR CHILDREN
camping… and we’ll do the packing for you!
• 6 x fun workshops
Hire a quality, fully packed camper trailer from as little as $55 per day for a family of 4. Includes comfortable beds, table & chairs, fridge and all cooking equipment.
• Interactive small classes (to include activities /games)
www.campezy.com.au 14
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We will help your child to understand the value of good manners, respect and relationships with others. Give them the opportunity to hear it from someone else.
• 5-8 & 9-12 year olds
Limited spaces. Enrol online now at www.mannersmaketh.com.au or phone 1300 376 040 www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
24/05/10 11:48 AM
www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
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JUNe
Special Events CALENDAR Dates TBC
June 6
June 6
When/where: Wintersun Showcase Arena, Marine Pde, Coolangatta (and various Coolangatta/Tweed locations) A 10-day retro festival celebrating the swing and tribute era with over 100 bands including international acts. Enjoy market stalls, fairground, street parades and lots of family fun. Let the good times roll! Cost: Most events are free Details: Phone: 1300 135 847 or visit www.wintersun.org.au
When/where: 9am-12pm at Carrara Indoor Stadium, Nerang- Broadbeach Rd, Carrara The Baby and Kids’ market offers a huge range of preloved baby and kids’ goods from prams to cots, toys and books, clothes and shoes. Enjoy a morning of bargain hunting and grab a deal! (Note – cash sales only). Cost: Entry $3 / kids free Details: Phone 1300 554 476 or visit www.babykidsmarket.com.au
When/where: From 10am-1pm at Kurrawa Park, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach Who’s got the rhythm of the drums? Take the kids down to try their hand at juggling, hula hoops, tribal drumming and line walking – great ways to encourage coordination, not to mention have some fun too! Cost: Free Details: Phone 5526 0900 or visit www.threeworlds.com.au
June 13
June 13
18 June-20 June
When/where: from 10am- 12noon at Riesenwebber Park, Jacobs Well Rd, Jacobs Well Won’t the kids think you’re cool if you can make a kite that can actually fly! A great activity for the whole family to do together. Cost: Free Details: Phone Busy Bodies on 1300 780 447
When/where: From 9am-5pm at Kurrawa Park, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach Learn more about living a green lifestyle. Enjoy music and wildlife shows, taste local products and learn how to live a more responsible lifestyle. There will also be a petting zoo for the kids and life sizes characters teaching and entertaining the children. Cost: Gold coin donation Details: www.gecko.org.au/greendayout
June 19
June 20
June 23
June 23
When/where: From 5.30pm-10.30pm at Sea World Car Park, The Spit, Main Beach Excitement for the whole family with rodeo fun! That’s right a real country rodeo beside our beautiful beaches including food and entertainment. Cost: $25 for adults and children under 12 are free. Details: www.bullsonthebeach.com
When/where: From 10am-3pm at Albert Waterways Hall, Broadbeach A fun day out for the whole family with heaps of tips on making our children as healthy as they can be! There will be outdoor activities for the kids, food and entertainment. Cost: Free Details: www.childrensfitnesscentre.com.au
When/where: From 9.30am-10.30am at Birch Carroll Coyle Cinema, Australia Fair, Marine Pde, Southport A great morning out for mums to connect with other mums, enjoy a flick, complementary morning tea and the expertise of guest speaker Kip McGrath from Kip McGrath Education Centre. Cost: Cost of a movie for members Details: Register at www.australiafair.com.au
When/where: from 9:30am-11:30am at Pacific Pines Central Park, Hotham Drive, Pacific Pines Burn some energy and have some fun with the little ones! Two hours of fun (they say parents can relax while the kids keep busy) with a jumping castle and free drink and healthy snack. Cost: Free Details: Bookings are required, phone The Fun Team 5559 0957
CHALK THE WALK PAVEMENT ART FESTIVAL
June 4-14
THE WINTERSUN FESTIVAL
When/where: Surfers Paradise The kids will love seeing the pavement come alive with brilliance in this incredible art display. Some are 3D and all individual and impressive! Cost: Free Details: www.surfersparadise.com/culture/ chalkthewalk.php
June 6
June 11
When/where: 10am-12pm. The Marine Village, Sanctuary Cove. Join in this hip hop dance party and JettRoc Designer Kidswear searches for their new ‘face’. Cost: $5 proceeds go to 4ASD Kids Details 5577 6500
When/where: From 9am-10pm at the Gold Coast Arts Centre, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise The Gold Coast Band Fest is a festival of parades, displays and concerts from the best bands all over Queensland. Be entertained by brass bands, marching displays, solos and concert bands. Cost: Under $10 Details: www.qba.org.au/states2010
HIP HOP DANCE PARTY
LINE! FIND MORE EVENTS ON m.au .co ast eco nth so www.kid June 19
MUDGEERABA CREEK STATE SCHOOL WINTER FAIR When/where: From 10am-4pm at the School Oval Corner of Hardy’s Rd and Gold CoastSpringbrook Rd, Mudgeeraba Everyone is welcome to join in this fun family day out at the fair! There will be rides, market alley, delicious food and even an official Guinness World Record attempt! Cost: Free entry Details: Phone: 0404 775 828
Calendar compiled by www.savvymama.com.au. Sign up for weekly updates on their website.
GOLD COAST BAND FEST
BULLS ON THE BEACH
MAKE AND FLY A KITE WORKSHOP
2010 CHILDREN’S HEALTH & WELLBEING EXPO
BABY AND KIDS MARKET
GREEN DAY OUT
MUMZ WITH BUBZ MORNING TEA
JUGGLE JUNGLE FUN
BRISBANE PREGNANCY BABIES AND CHILDREN EXPO 2010 When/where: From 10am-4pm daily at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Bank Expert advice for pregnant and new mums all under one roof. Check out new products in the marketplace and gather as many tips as you can fit in your nappy bag! Cost: Adults $14, Pensioners $10 and children under 14 are free Details: www.pbcexpo.com.au/brisbane
FREE FUN IN THE PARK WITH THE FUN TEAM
School Holid ay Entertainmen t
FREE
S P U S S E R D & DISCO PLUS:
OPEN
9am daily Entry Prices apply Daily Entry Prices for Unlimited Play & FREE Holiday Entertainment 1&2 yrs ..................$5 3-5 yrs ...................$8 6-12yrs ................$10 All kids need socks and a supervising parent for PLAY!
Friday) Weekdays (Monday – S from 10am ALL AGE
to Abrakidazzle Just boogie on down s and join in the fun! these school holidayll have you singing and dancing in the
t “Ringo, we’ from Hosted by our Masco tin Bieber, Hi 5, songs music, Miley Cyrus, Jus 40 Top at gre to aisles have Mums and Dads n eve ll we’ & EE’ W ‘GL carena. THE SMASH HIT TV SHO the Bus Stop & the Ma reminiscing to YMCA, o” and her all eDo “Debbi es by the sensational Special guest appearanc all will include games, for fun tive rac inte w and our singing, all dancing cre ce competitions. prizes, karaoke and dan
R THE BEST BOY &
PRIZE EACH DAY FO
Facepainters & Temporary Tattoos Art Workshops* Cooking Workshops* Singing & Drama Workshops* Circus Workshops* Checkout our website for workshop days & costs or phone us to make a workshop booking. * Workshops will only be held on scheduled days
P
GIRL DISCO DRESS-U
ZUMBA CLASSES $8 - NOW AT ABRA
48/3 Jackman St, Southport 07 5528 3844 www.abrakidazzle.com.au 16
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www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
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Y L U J / E JUN
LINE! FIND MORE EVENTS ON .au om t.c as www.kidsontheco
June 26-27
June 26-July 16
MUDGEERABA SHOW
ECO RANGERS AT CURRUMBIN
When/where: Mudgeeraba Showgrounds, Cnr of Mudgeeraba and Worongary Rds A bit of a country fair right here in the city! Enjoy show bags, rides, trick riders, the pet parade, Ute muster and so much more. A fun day out. Cost: $10 adults, $5 kids, $25 family pass Details: www.mudgeerabashow.org.au
When/where: From 9am-3.30pm during school holidays at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Tomewin Drive, Currumbin Get closer to Australian wildlife at Currumbin this school holidays with a fun and educational day of activities as an Eco-Ranger. Feed the lorikeets and kangaroos, learn about animal care, join behind the scene vet tours and more! Cost: $49 per child (additional children at $44) includes food Details: www.cws.org.au
3
A calendar of regular weekly events is available online. For details of playgroups, library activities, weekly sporting events, craft classes, Australian Breastfeeding Association meeting times and much more, visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
27
June 27
GREAT AUSSIE BARBECUE When/where: From 11am-5.30pm at Eileen Peters Park, The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise Surfers Paradise is throwing a beachside bash: a barbecue hosted by ‘Two Chefs’ including live demos and tips. There will also be market stalls, music, cricket and a fireworks display to wrap up the day. Cost: Free Details: www.surfersparadisefestival.com.au
July 3
July 3-7
July 18-25
July 21
When/where: racing starts from 6am near the Southport Pool, Marine Pde, Southport What motivation to see tens of thousands racing to meet their challenge and conquer the distance. There are even junior dashes for the kids, a 2km or 4km run. Cost: Varied for each event Details: www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au
When/where: Gold Coast (TBC) Mark ‘Occy’ Occhilipo is back in search of the nation’s hottest junior surfers. This is one of the notorious events for juniors and fun to watch for all surf lovers. Cost: Free for spectators Details: www.surfingqueensland.com
When/where: All over the Gold Coast Get active, be inspired and have fun in the Gold Coast’s first week long physical activity festival. People of all ages can sample a wide variety of fun activities throughout the week including a free active and healthy fun day on Sunday the 18th of July and over 100 free and low cost activities to throughout the week. Cost: Free Details: www.getactivegoldcoast.com.au
When/where: From 9.30am-10.30am at Birch Carroll Coyle Cinema, Australia Fair, Marine Pde, Southport A great morning out for mums to connect with other mums, enjoy a flick, complementary morning tea and the expertise of guest speaker Elaine Harvey from Lullababy SOS. Cost: Cost of a movie for members Details: Register at www.australiafair.com.au
July 24-25
July 24-25
July 25
When/where: Gold Coast (TBC) A fun day out to watch the girls rip it up! Women competing for the state titles and also the junior rippers trying to grab a spot in the trials for the 2011 Roxy Pro World Tour event. Cost: Free for spectators Details: www.surfingqueensland.com
When/where: from 9am-12pm. Upper Coomera State College, 137 Reserve Rd, Upper Coomera The ultimate market for your children’s needs! A huge range of pre-loved baby, maternity and kids’ goods from prams to cots and toys and books to clothes and shoes. In amongst the bargain hunting, there will be face painting fun. Cost: Entry is $3 and kids are free Details: www.zero2five.com.au
GOLD COAST AIRPORT MARATHON
July 23-25
BILLABONG OCCY’S GROM COMP
GOLD COST HOME SHOW AND CARAVAN AND CAMPING EXPO
July 24-25
MINIATURE TRAINS ON THE COAST
When/where: From 9am-4pm at Parklands, Smith St (Cnr Parklands Dr), Southport Check out the latest in home products including renovation tips, gardening and much more! See the latest in camping and caravanning. Free rides for the kids, cooking demos, and prizes! Cost: Adults $8, Seniors $6 and kid are free with an adult Details: Phone 1800 671 588 or visit www.australianevents.com.au
When/where: From 10am-3pm at Heritage Park, 193 Rifle Range Rd, Pimpama A bit of a history lesson for the kids where you can take a ride around the park on a double decker bus or check out the old trucks, tractors, vintage cars and more. There will be a grand parade, food and drinks available. Cost: $8 and children under 13 are free Details: Phone 3200 8673
When/where: From 9am-5pm at Ashmore Police Citizens Youth Club, Dominions Rd, Ashmore The Miniature Train Club presents a model railway exhibition with over 20 working models. There will be retail stands and even a Thomas the Tank U-drive. Cost: Adults $5, concession $3 and family pass $15 Details: Phone 5534 3304
ANNUAL PIONEER RALLY
GOLD COAST PHYSICAL ACTIVITY WEEK
MUMZ WITH BUBZ MORNING TEA
GIRL’S SURF SLAM QUEENSLAND CHAMPIONSHIPS
ZERO TO FIVE MARKETS
SCHOOL HOLIDAY VACATION CARE Gold Coast PCYC presents….
WHAT HAPPENS AT THE FARM? 6.30am -6pm Mon to Fri (during school holidays) 2 excursion days per week
Includes: • Arts and crafts and physical activity • Henny Penny Baby Chicks being incubated at the club over the holidays, • A visit to Pioneer homestead • Growing Grass Heads • Visit from Old McDonald’s farm
$40 per day $50 for excursion days
Our Program provides a comfortable, safe & healthy environment. We support physical improvement, encourage creative, aesthetic growth and support the development of life skills. Our service complies with all relevant childcare regulations. Child Care Benefit available.
ELSE WE DO COME AND SEE WHAT AT OUR OPEN DAY 2010 10am – 2pm, 24th JULY For more information please phone 5538 5201 www.goldcoastpcyc.com 180 MONACO ST, BROADBEACH WATERS www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
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education
by Kim Robins
Fund
rai$ing Spare time and surplus household funds are luxuries that most of us don’t have these days. Yet thousands of mums, dads, carers, teachers and community members angelically give their time to raise funds for struggling organisations, schools and charities. More raised hands are always needed, so let’s talk about fundraising!
Inadequate public funding has meant that many schools, child care centres and clubs rely heavily on fundraising for necessities and sometimes even survival. The concept has been around for thousands of years, yet thankfully the general theory or aim has remained the same: those that are more affluent (in terms of money, time and/or resources) have the chance to help and provide for those that are less fortunate. There are varying degrees of affluence and fundraising ideas these days range from the ever popular and humble sausage sizzle right through to innovative hightech online affiliate programs where groups are paid commissions in return for promoting company websites, products or services. Some fundraising concepts like black tie events, carnivals and major fundraising drives are obviously harder and more time consuming than others to coordinate and see through to completion. In such cases, many hands make light work. These
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MADE EASY
events are generally (but not always) suited to larger companies or businesses like radio and television stations and corporate firms, but you don’t have to be a ‘big player’ to make a difference to someone’s world. Smaller groups and centres tend to rely solely on volunteers and their extended network to make their fundraising event a success. Parents, carers and teachers band together to motivate their kids and family friends to become involved and help with tasks such as designing and distributing flyers, supplying equipment, making and/or building props, baking, selling tickets, finding sponsors, manning events or collecting and counting money. It’s amazing just how much hard work and time goes into something as traditional and seemingly ‘simple’ as a morning tea or school disco but somehow small local community groups continually manage to raise thousands of valuable dollars every year. Already busy helpers quite often comment that organising or being involved with a fundraiser can sometimes feel overwhelming and it would be much easier if more people participated. It’s not that people don’t want to help; it’s a case of people wondering where on earth they will find the time. It’s OK to put your hand up but be firm on how much time you can allocate.
www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
24/05/10 11:48 AM
Myth bu$ter
A$k que$tion$
One of the biggest myths when it comes to fundraising is that you need to have lots of money and you need to know lots of influential people for your fundraiser to be a success. This is not true. Your greatest advantage or most important ‘tool’ is your group of members or supporters. Having said this though, for your supporters to be able to help it’s imperative that you have a plan and you are organised. Nothing will make volunteers disappear faster than confusion and chaos.
Asking questions will ensure the fundraiser you have chosen is going to suit your needs and help you achieve your goals. If you are working with a specific product, ask how long a company has been in business, whether they have experience in fundraising, the quality of their product, whether you need to prepay for goods and if they supply promotional material. All of this information can help your committee determine if this is the right company for you.
Getting $tarted
Get the me$$age out there
A Fundraising Coordinator needs to be appointed and it’s a good idea to choose someone who is organised, enthusiastic and a great communicator. Some people are put off and don’t volunteer for this position because they incorrectly assume that they will have to do all of the hard work. Reassure them that it is their job to break a big job into smaller manageable tasks that can be delegated to other members and they won’t be left to do all the jobs no one else wants to do! If you ended up with the top job, why not start by sending out a questionnaire to parents and finding out their particular skills and availability? With the help of organisations like Fundraising Directory (which offers some excellent advice and tips to ensure the smooth running and success of your fundraiser), anyone can have fun fundraising.
For your fundraiser to be a success people need to know about it. Plan well ahead so you have time to get the word out. A good place to start is your school or community newsletter or website where you can let your supporters know exactly what you are trying to achieve and how they can help. It’s also beneficial to utilise any promotional material or information provided by your fundraising company. Try to get it out to as many families and other groups as possible. People are usually more willing to donate time or money if they are educated and informed about the product or service. This is also the case if they are asked or encouraged to help rather than it just being expected or assumed they can or want to.
$et a date
U$eful Tip$
Have a look at your school and community calendars and make sure you choose a date that doesn’t clash with other major events. No one wants to feel torn between charities or fundraisers or feeling like they should give more time or money than they can afford.
1. Families need and enjoy a break so avoid fundraising during school holidays.
Choo$e a fundrai$er
3. Don’t be afraid to extend your deadline by a couple of days. You will generally get a last minute influx of orders!
Sometimes it’s easier to run the same fundraisers every year and if your group has something that continues to be a winner, like an annual fete or stall, then stick with it, but it’s still a good idea to introduce fresh and exciting new ideas. Not only can it be fun, it will ensure your supporters don’t get fatigued or bored.
LCF Fun Clubs for Little Linguists! French, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, German and English for 2-12 year olds. Contact us now for a FREE Trial at your school or preschool!
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2. Keep it short and sweet. People lose interest if fundraisers drag on for too long. Two to three weeks is ideal.
For more information and fresh fundraising ideas go to the Fundraising Directory Website: www.fundraisingideas.com.au/ebook-essentials.html or www.fundraisingmagazine.com.au
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education When it’$ all $aid and done Some fundraisers fade away and people aren’t aware of the final outcome. We all like to feel valued and appreciated so a short note in the next newsletter simply stating how much money was raised, how it will be used and a genuine thank you will be greatly appreciated by your hard-working volunteers. There are heaps of new fundraising concepts out there that have been structured to make the project as simple as possible. All of the finer details are taken care of and all you need to do is request the information and order forms, distribute this to the community and wait for the orders to roll in. Some companies even deliver the product straight to the customer so you don’t even have to worry about distributing orders. As well as all of the hard work being taken out of the process for you it’s heartwarming to know that offering fundraising isn’t just about money with many businesses. Nathan and Sara Hodges from ArtEater say they offer fundraising as part of their business because they are “happy to help out and give something back. If you can’t do that as a business, then you’re not really playing fair.” The general consensus is that although it does generate extra business, it also brings communities together and builds relationships. There’s also a genuine desire for many business owners to provide keepsakes to make you smile or a useful product that makes your life a little easier or fun. Angela Soutar and Simone Crowther from Artcards started their business about a year ago because they “saw a need for something healthy, creative and fun as a fundraiser within schools” and currently use the fundraising concept as a way to expose their product to their target market.
This approach and attitude means that not only is money raised, but everyone involved from conception through to completion will benefit by feeling good about giving. Regardless of the type of fundraising event you and your troop of volunteers can manage, it’s good to know the end result will still be the same…someone will benefit from your donation of time or money no matter how small the contribution may seem. So next time you get ‘the calling’ from your kid’s kindy, school or sporting club, smile and say yes, knowing you will be making a difference.
Our Top 10 fundrai$ing companie$ Labels: Never lose another item again! Stuck on You: 1800 645 849 or www. stuckonyou.biz. Identikid: 02 6971 2276 or www.identikid.com.au. Label Kingdom: 3206 4033 or www.labelkingdom.com.au Artcards: Personalised quality greeting cards using your child’s art work: 0419 633 107 or www.artcardsbykids.com.au Expressions: Tea towels printed with your child’s class handprints or artwork: 1300 855 509 or www.expressions.com.au ArtEater: All of your child’s artwork duplicated and presented in a beautiful book: 0403 156 636 or www.arteater.com.au Mooo: Personalised Tees, name puzzles and much more! 1800 507 592 or www.mooo.com.au Crazy Camel: Gorgeous calendars: 1800 141 239 or www.crazycamel.com.au Schoolyard Stories: Your child’s stories published! 1300 793 893 or www.schoolyardstories.com.au Create a Cook Book: All of your school’s favourite family recipes: 0410 051 324 or www.createacookbook.com.au Picture products: Your child’s artwork on a durable melamine plate: 1300 130 574 or www.pictureproducts.com.au Sunsational: Who doesn’t need sunscreen? 02 9664 1412 or www.sunsationalbodycare.com.au
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BABIES ON
the coast by Kim Robins
Supporti n g each other BABYSITTING CLUBS RELIEVE THE PRESSURE
You’ve just moved to the area: have finally unpacked, the boxes are empty, the house is in (some kind) of order, the kids are settled and you and your family are enjoying the great beaches and lifestyle the Coast has to offer. Everything is sailing along nicely until wham! You have to go to the doctor, want to get groceries or your hair cut, go to a job interview or just need some time with your partner and you realise there’s no one to babysit the kids. Hundreds of families move to Queensland every year with the majority leaving their network of family and friends behind. This also means leaving behind an important support network of trusted babysitters to help in such situations. Some parents adjust easily and are comfortable with hiring babysitters when the need arises. A quick search of the yellow pages, local classifieds or internet will provide a list of babysitting services in the area. They have their own screening
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process and are careful about their selection but regardless, we all know it’s not easy leaving your kids with a complete stranger no matter how nice they seem or how glowing their references are. Then there’s the issue of having the money to pay for a babysitter or being able to get a suitable one at the last minute. What starts as a cheap night out (some time out) can get quite expensive and all of a sudden it’s just too hard and you end up staying at home. That is, until you hear talk on the grapevine about something called a ‘babysitting club’. Babysitting clubs have been around for years and are becoming increasingly accepted, especially in areas like the Sunshine and Gold coasts which are popular choices for families relocating for work or simply wanting a lifestyle change.
So what’s a babysitting club?
A babysitting club is a way for friends to babysit for each other and for new families to make friends. Most clubs are by invitation only, which means only people recommended and trusted by other friends are invited to join. However other clubs have membership
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drives where they welcome new memberships and registrations outside their normal network to encourage new families to join. This helps to expand their membership so that it reaches those that live outside current designated club areas.
How does it work?
Babysitting clubs work on a points system where each member is allocated the same number of points upon joining and these are to be used in exchange for babysitting. You use and earn points within your group by asking friends to babysit and by babysitting in return. Each club has its own rules for day time and night time sitting but generally it’s one point per hour of babysitting. So if you and another club member both have 10 points and you babysit their child or children for an hour, they ‘pay’ you one point. You now have 11 points or credits to spend on babysitting within your club and your friend has nine. A club administrator usually keeps track of the points so it remains fair. There are also rules that each member must agree to follow or their membership can be suspended or terminated. Each club has different guidelines but generally the rules include an outline or version of expected behaviours like courtesy and consideration to other members, being punctual at drop off and pick up times and respecting parents’ wishes with bed times, television watching and food intake. Just as important is the expected treatment of the children. The Gold Coast Babysitting Club has a strict rule for its members when it comes to the discipline of children in their care. It is expected that disciplining children should be through verbal command and direction and never through physical force and all children should be treated with the same love and respect members show their own. All clubs should have clear rules on child discipline so don’t be afraid to ask. All of these rules and regulations could seem a little daunting or overwhelming but generally members and friends are like minded and already have these rules in place at home with their own families. Having set rules and expectations in place gives sitters a clear outline of what is expected from them and parents the reassurance or peace of mind that their child is protected through them.
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What you need to know… How does it work? How long has it been running? What area do you cover? How many members do you have? What is your member screening process? Will it cost me anything? What are the rules? Do they cover acceptable ways to discipline children in your care? Do you have regular club meetings or gatherings where I can meet other members? What do I do if I have a complaint? What if I try it and it’s not for me, can I simply de-register? Gold Coast Babysitting Club’s Heather Denslow says their club is primarily a club of friendship and in her four years as administrator she hasn’t had to suspend or terminate a membership yet. “It is promoted up front that members who don’t follow the rules will be asked to leave,” she says. “Membership is a privilege that can be revoked after a serious complaint. Members need to be aware that if they don’t complete sittings to the liking of the parent they will develop a reputation that will spread throughout the club and no one will invite them to sit anymore. “They won’t have the opportunity to earn points so they will effectively push themselves out of the club.” It’s simply not as easy as just registering, getting your points and off you go. If you are new to an area and want to join a club, it’s important to get to know other members. Heather says members “…need to invest some time, effort and energy into getting to
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BABIES ON
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know the other members or they won’t ever use the service. We’d never ask a stranger to babysit for us so the obvious remedy to this is to make and develop new friendships.” By making the effort to attend club meetings, gatherings and social functions you will ultimately feel more comfortable using their services (and them yours).
Everyone has different opinions, needs and circumstances but it’s a comfort for many to know that such babysitting clubs are out there. By picking up the phone, asking a few simple questions and making the effort to attend a function, you will know if joining such an organisation is for you.
As popular as they are quickly becoming, babysitting clubs aren’t for everyone. Some parents know straight up they wouldn’t be comfortable with the concept or that it simply wouldn’t suit their circumstances. Sunshine Coast mum-of-five Kristy Guest says she can see the appeal and the benefits, especially if you don’t have a close support network but not knowing other members very well, and not having the time to commit to meetings and gatherings would prevent her from using one. “I’m lucky that I have people I can ask to help me with the kids because I would be wary about leaving them with people I didn’t know very well,” she says. “I do feel guilty asking my friends because I don’t want them to feel like they have to say yes, so I only ask if I really need to. “Although, it makes me feel better knowing I can return the favour and help them when they need it…I suppose it’s like a babysitting club but without the points!” Other parents have joined a babysitting club only to find, for different reasons it’s not for them. Heather Denslow says, “The only people that have left the (Gold Coast Babysitting) Club are ones that have family or friends that they can call on, so they weren’t using it or didn’t have time or the inclination to make friends with other members.”
The pros and cons
Pros: • Make new friends in your area • Convenient guilt-free babysitting • More flexibility if you have a last minute appointment or emergency Cons: • Most clubs have a rule that regardless of how many children you have it’s still one point per hour of sitting. If you only have one or two kids you need to be aware you could be asked to sit for someone with four or five. • If you are new to an area it could take a while to get to know other members before being comfortable having them sit for you (and vice versa). • Some clubs have a ‘Mums Only’ care rule so sitting is limited to times when Dad’s not home. For more information… If you have trouble finding a babysitting club Heather Denslow from the Gold Coast Babysitting Club is happy to help you set up your own club in your own area. Go to www.goldcoastbabysittingclub.com.au for more information.
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THE FIRST STEP TO A MEMORABLE PARTY by Cindy Mayes
Nothing is as exciting to a child as a birthday invitation. The thrill of receiving something in the mail or being handed a special package at school is made even more exciting when the invitation is something special. After all, the best kids’ birthday parties start with great birthday invitations! With many kids wanting to plan their birthdays almost the full year in advance, putting a bit of effort into the invitation for their special day is worthwhile. Make sure you mail or hand deliver invitations well in advance to give parents time to plan and kids time to get excited. With younger children, try to deliver invitations away from school or kindergarten to avoid unintentionally hurting any feelings.
Buying ready made
There are some beautifully designed children’s birthday invitations on the market, and many can be personalised to include the name of your child and the details of the party. Here are some of our favourites: Invite Me: www.inviteme.com.au Over 40 classy and cute designs, personalised with your details. Come with magnet on the back for proud display on the fridge! Delivery: Allow 7-14 days. Cost: $3.75 per invite (average cost). Vista Print: www.vistaprint.com.au Choose from over 200 designs which can all be personalised – matching sets are available. Delivery: priority nine days, standard 14 days or slow 21 days. Cost: Set of 10 invites from $15.
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Party Invitations: www.partyinvitations.com.au Offers a range of christening, babies and children’s birthday designs. Delivery: Print your own: no delay. Printed invites: Allow seven days Cost: Print your own: $22 for template. Printed invites: around $3 each. Paper Eskimo: www.papereskimo.com Beautiful designs cut into shapes with a magnet on the back or a complete party pack including invites, planning manual, hats and party bags. Delivery: Depends on supplier. List of suppliers on website. Cost: Pack of 12 invites and envelopes around $20. Complete party pack around $80. Cards Plus DVD: www.cardsplusdvd.com.au Exciting invitation or an affordable children’s birthday present, you can now buy a combined birthday card and DVD of an animated classic. Currently there are twenty titles in the range including The Little Cars, The Little Mermaid, Snow White and The Wizard of Oz. Delivery: Depends on supplier. Cost: $4.95 each. My Big Event: www.mybigevent.com.au Select from a range of DIY, custom made or pre-printed invites and party ware. Delivery: Allow three days, free delivery. Cost: Varies.
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Use balloons for your invitations. Blow up the balloon, write party details on it then deflate – include instructions on the envelope saying “Blow me up!” Alternatively, insert a tiny slip of paper inside a balloon with instructions “Blow me up then pop me!”
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If you have a paper bark tree in your garden, cut out squares of the fallen bark and make treasure map invitations. If not, dip white paper into diluted tea to give an aged effect (you can also slightly burn the edges of the paper if you’re really keen – but perhaps don’t delegate this part to the kids!)
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To save time, buy blank invitation cards with matching envelopes. These come in a range of colours, and you can even get pre-cut cardboard shapes like butterflies or rockets which make great invitations.
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Search the web for free templates or ideas. Look for images to enhance the invitation – this could be your child’s drawing, clip art, a rubber stamp or a photograph. Use unique wording to really make your invitation special – try writing a poem or including a funny quote. Head down to your local scrapbooking shop and let your child choose the paper, pens and stickers of their dreams and then spend an afternoon creating! It really doesn’t matter what the finished product looks like as long as your child has had fun doing it! Don’t forget… Make sure you have enough ink in your cartridges – the last thing you want is to run out. Before you start printing the project, run one copy as a prototype so you can check for errors, and make sure everything is as you want it. Make sure you include who the invitation is for, whose birthday it is, date, time, address, what to wear, RSVP date and phone number/email address. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au
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Pearl in the
VANUATU – A WORLD AWAY ON OUR DOORSTEP
Imagine stepping into the arrival lounge after only three hours on a plane to be greeted by a haphazardly organised band of colourful musicians with wide, white grins and cloths wrapped around their waists. They start their next number while you wait in the customs line, a box, broom handle and piece of string forming their primary instrument. By the time another smiling face stamps your passport, you wish the queue was longer because the kids have joined in banging the bongos. This is Vanuatu. It’s simple, yet heart warming: developing country, yet with sophisticated dining and shopping and culturally so different, yet close to home. It’s a family holiday with palm trees, snorkelling, cascading waterfalls and a unique culture. Its government is stable, roads are reasonable and it’s people are some of the friendliest on earth.
Small Guides Travel director and Vanuatu travel specialist Ian Heydon knows this island nation intimately and it was he that helped me organise a holiday to suit my own requirements. Ian, his wife and two children fell in love with Vanuatu and spent three years living there between 2000 and 2003. If you want to know where to go, where to stay and what to do here, he’s your man. “Most travel agencies offer a world of destinations to local clients,” he says. “We offer our ‘local’ destination to a world of clients and we deal directly with both our guests and the accommodation properties.” Personally, Amber and I wanted to spend a couple of days at a resort finding our feet, then move to our own self-contained apartment to use as a base for more adventure and cultural interaction. Ian suggested staying close to Port Vila for easy exploration. He designed a holiday which met all our needs and even organised a driver, Henry, who would pick us up at a moment’s notice and take us wherever the whim suited.
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For two days we swam in the resort pool, treated ourselves to mocktails at the swimup bar and ate overlooking landscaped gardens and sheets of tropical rain. There are several resorts with a kids’ club. Ian recommends recently refurbished Le Lagon where kids stay and eat free, only five minutes from Port Vila. Self-contained Lagoon Beach Resort is another great option. “When I was over in the September/October holidays last year they hired in a jumping castle and a giant waterslide,” he says. Once we felt acclimatised, our driver, Henry, picked us up and waited for us at the supermarket before depositing us outside Pacific Lagoon Apartments. A simple self-contained unit, set in lush green grass and perched right on the edge of a turquoise lagoon, awaited. Free kayaks were piled haphazardly on the foreshore and, once we filled the fridge with our provisions, we were on the water counting blue starfish in the clear waters. An exciting and relaxing five days followed. We had come in cyclone season (November to April) and sat on high alert for a couple of days while a storm threatened. With ocean activities affected by the high winds, we opted to explore inland. Henry dropped us at the start of a walk to stunningly beautiful Mele Cascade waterfalls, then met us again at a prearranged time. We drove to the ferry departure point for Hideaway Island where, even in choppy seas, we snorkelled out to post a letter at the underwater post office and managed to spot Nemo on the way. We woke to another cloudy day and signed up for a buggy trip over the island. Strapped in, having chosen the most ridiculous helmets, we traversed the island, visited a turtle sanctuary and returned splattered in mud with grins from ear to ear. Yet another two-hour excursion took us to the Ekasup Cultural Village. Set in the bush, this tourist attraction offers a unique insight into the history and traditional culture of this proud people. We learned how to trap chickens using coconut shavings and bake bananas in skins. We saw skulls remaining from the island’s cannibalistic past and watched traditional dance. The markets were in full swing in Vila on Saturday. From plantain to root vegetables and exotic gingers, the colours and smells opened our hearts.
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Our tropical adventure had lasted but eight days. Stepping off Pacific Blue (Virgin) in Brisbane it felt like much longer. Batteries recharged, our braided locks only hinted of the tales to tell. Vanuatu is a family destination with it all: safety, friendliness, variety and culture. Best of all, it’s right on our doorstep!
Vanuatu
Ian’s Top 10 things to do in 1 Ekasup Cultural Village – A great way to learn about traditional culture in a couple of hours.
2 Coongoola Cruise – Visit the turtle sanctuary (maybe name and release a
tagged turtle), beach barbecue, snorkeling and perhaps dolphins off the bow.
3 Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary – Easy snorkelling with platforms above for the not-so-good swimmers.
4 Mele Cascades – Walk to a stunning waterfall and swimming holes. 5 Off-road Fun Buggies – Mum and/or Dad drive with the kids as passengers. A great one for a wet day as it can get very messy.
6 Kayak Safari up Rentapao River with Vanuatu Ecotours – Wonderful scenery and sense of adventure.
7 Lololima Cascades with Vanuatu Ecotours – A swimming hole with a ‘Tarzan’ rope.
8 Markets and waterfront – Wander, observe and absorb. Maybe end with a
moonlight movie at the Nambawan Café. Watch the sunset over the harbour, order some pizza and drinks and enjoy a free movie.
Disney characters and artwork ©Disney, Disney/Pixar characters ©Disney/Pixar.
9 Explore the island – Hire a local bus driver to see villages and local schools. 10 Learn the language – Teach the kids a couple of pleasantries in Bislama (pidgin) and French – there are three ‘official’ languages in Vanuatu and ‘Bonjour’ and ‘Merci beaucoup’ plus ‘Alo’ and ‘Tankyu tumas’ are pretty easy to learn!
More information: Small Guides Travel - Phone: 3715 7348 or visit: www.smallguidetravel.com.au; Lagoon Beach Resort – Visit: www.LagoonBeachVanuatu.com; Pacific Lagoon Apartments – Visit: www.pacificlagoon.com; Le Lagon – Visit: www.lelagonvanuatu.vu
Brisbane entertainment centre, 16-20 June e on sal0! 1 y a m
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health
GOOD
DR. SCOTT PARSONS
The limping child Limping usually means some sort of injury but there are a number of oddly named conditions that occur without injury. These predominantly involve the hip, but can involve any part of the leg. Moving onto two legs meant changes in our centre of gravity and the structure and function of our lower back and legs. The hips, which are a ball and socket type of joint, bear most of the load. Structurally, the ball sits at the top of the femur and points inwards towards the socket which is part of the pelvis. During the development of the hip in the womb a few things can go wrong, which is why checking every infant that is born for displaced hips is important. Native Americans were the source of the cure when it was discovered that they never suffered from this condition. All their infants were strapped to their mother’s with legs apart which allowed for proper development of the hips. So now when an infant is discovered to have this condition they are placed in a brace that keeps the legs wide apart ensuring proper repositioning of the hips. After infancy, the most common hip condition is called ‘irritable hip’ or transient synovitis. The child will wake up unable to put much weight on the leg. They will complain of leg pain but careful assessment of the hip, usually by ultrasound, will find some fluid around the joint. The good news is that this is temporary and settles after a few days of rest. The cause is thought to be a post viral inflammation but if the child is unwell with a fever a bacterial infection must be ruled out with urgent treatment. There are two hip conditions that deserve special mention. One is called Perthe’s disease. It involves a gradual reduction of blood flow to the ‘ball’ of the hip joint, which weakens it considerably. It tends to occur in small, active boys and is detected with x-rays. If picked up early enough it can be fixed with rest, but if not surgery will be required. The second occurs in adolescents and is sometimes associated with obesity. This is where the ‘ball’ actually starts slipping from the femur and the leg will appear shortened. Knee and ankle joints rarely cause problems during pre-teen years. Parents will often worry about the shape of the legs, and ‘flat feet’ but these are rarely of any significance. They are normal variations. During teenage years there are a couple of repetitive strain injuries on major tendons. The first involves the tendon that inserts the quadriceps muscle into the tibia just below the knee cap. This area will be sore during and after exercise. This is called Osgood-Schlatters disease and is common during the winter sports. A similar injury involves the insertion of the achilles tendon into the bottom of the foot. This is called Sever’s disease. Again it is a repetitive strain injury. Both these last 6-10 months then disappear as the tendon’s growth ‘catches up’ with rest of the body. Sever’s sometimes needs some heel raises inserted into sports shoes to lessen discomfort. Limiting the running training during the week will enable weekend participation. Other causes such as juvenile arthritis, bone tumours, rare infections, marrow and metabolic problems also need to be considered, but these are rare. We have been walking upright for several hundred thousand years now and we seem to be making a good go of it. But if your child wakes up limping, and he did not suffer any obvious injury then he or she will need a proper assessment.
The information contained in this article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for individual professional medical advice from your physician or qualified health care provider.
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Members Number: 455
Date: January 2009
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S W e I V RE
by
RIPLEY’S HUMAN BODY: BELIEVE IT OR NOT
RIPLEY’S WILD ANIMALS: BELIEVE IT OR NOT
A fun and informative book for children 8-13 who love quoting quirky facts. Like all the Ripley books there are lots of weird and wonderful pictures and examples of strange people, in this case about the human body. You can even find out how fast your blood travels around your body!
In the same style, this book covers the bizarre facts of the animal world. Children can learn about the most dangerous animal on the planet and why ants were sent into space. Both of these books include funky fact cards and a poster. Both are hardback $15.00.
I GROW IN GRANDAD’S GARDEN This is a special picture book for slightly older readers by local author Brian Andrew. Ellie visits her grandad and walks through the garden with him while talking through various issues at different ‘stop spots’. The ‘Think and Thank’ seat shows the value of appreciating what you have. The ‘Let Go Log’ helps her to understand the value of forgiveness. ‘Cross over Corner’ shows the value of courage which helps overcome fears and the ‘Dream Table’ reminds her of the need for generosity. All this is colourfully illustrated by Brisbane artist Banx to create a sensitive book for children 4-12 years. Paperback $19.95.
SNUG AS A HUG: an Australian Lullaby This is a charming picture book by Australian author Marcia Vaughan. Her gentle narrative and the beautiful illustrations by Pamela Lofts combine to make an ideal bedtime story for children from 0-4 years old. Hardback $25.00.
WHEN HEAVEN FELL This novel by Carolyn Marsden gives an authentic look at life in a Vietnamese village. The story is about a nine-year-old girl who can not afford to go to school and is desperately looking forward to a visit from her aunt who lives in America. The story deals with her aspirations and her relationship with the visitor but the lasting effects of the war are also touched upon. Suitable for 8-12 year olds. Paperback $12.95.
THERE WAS AN OLD SAILOR This picture book by Claire Saxby is a nautical version of the much-loved Nursery Rhyme, There was an Old Woman who swallowed a fly. In this version the sailor starts with eating a krill and ends with a whale. Highly original illustrations by Cassandra Allen really add to the impact of this fun story. Suitable for 0-4 years old. Hardback $27.95.
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DIRECTORY Chemists
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M 0402 322 033
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T A G N I T I B I H X E
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