Kids on the Coast Magazine - Sunshine Coast - Issue 47

FReE!!

, to go places , parents to do kids & things for g everythin

IssUe 47 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2o11

sunshine coast

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Learning Styles

BABIES & SKIN PROTECTION Christmas gifts

Made with love

CHILDS PLAY

THE BENEFITS OF BOREDOM

W A FA IN

ILY HOLIM D see ins ide for AY detail s

The pitfalls of perfectionism

plus Babies on the Coast, what’s on Calendar and lots more!

CONTeNTS Nov/Dec 2011

‘Like’ us on Facebook

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FEATURE Challenging Perfectionism 34 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

From the Editor

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Meet our Contributors

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WHAT’S NEWS

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CHECK THIS OUT

Find out what’s happening on the Coast during November and December

New, fun and funky things

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FEATURE: Challenging perfectionism

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NEW TO THE COAST

LET’S CELEBRATE: Christmas traditions

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS: Travel with teens

36 BABIES ON THE COAST: Babies and skin protection

60 CRAFTY MUMS: Mamma’s Market Vanessa and Amy

42 ONLY NATURAL: Christmas gift making

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50 HEALTH: Common ear, nose and throat issues

26 EDUCATION: Learning Styles

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PARENTVILLE: Down on the funny farm

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PARENT PROFILE: April Hulbert

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CRAFTY MUMS: HANDPICKED Our selection of “work at home” parent finds

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

18 THE ‘P’ FILES: The benefits of boredom

Kids on the Coast magazine is printed with vegetable/soy based inks on paper supplied using pulp sourced from sustainable forests and manufactured to environmentally accredited systems. Kids on the Coast encourages recycling. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

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CRAFTY MUMS: Business Directory 62

REVIEWS

onthecoast.com.au

kids Read more @ www.

WHAT’S ON CALENDAR

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PUBLISHED BY: THINGS 4 KIDS PTY LTD. PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562 PHONE: 1300 430 320 FAX: 07 5471 2372 WEB: www.kidsonthecoast.com.au 86’S473 357 391. All editorial and NTA SAABN: G or omissions and opinions advertising in Kids on the Coast is published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is takenM forIN errors O C may beNreproduced without written IVE 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 W O T A ARR ROM 9AM 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 SANT BtoEdo RF so. Letters to the editor may be edited for length or clarity. PUBLISHER: Toni Eggleston ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Simone Bell EDITOR: Jackie Goldston EDITORIAL SEECONTRIBUTORS: M E V O Maxine Arthur, Kim Lahey, Sandra Smith, Luke Goldston, Rachel Adams, Wendy Buckley, Belinda Hopper, Jackie Goldston, Aleney de Winter, David McIntosh ADVERTISING: For9advertising enquiries N TAGE S 1 K L please phone 1300 430 320 or email: advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.au LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY: Speak with your advertising coordinator or email: advertising@kidsonthecoast.com.

ERWA RIV au Production Department: Email: production@kidsonthecoast.com.au ADMINISTRATION: Kellie Kruger DISTRIBUTION: Kids on the Coast (Sunshine Coast edition) is a free publication circulating over 20,000 copies from Caloundra to Noosa and through the hinterland. Separate editions cover the Gold Coast and Townsville. For distribution enquiries please phone: 1300 430 320 or email: admin@kidsonthecoast.com.au FRONT COVER: Andrea Sproxton. Butterflys from Flutterby’s, Headband courtesy Evolve Mum. Baby. Home GRAPHIC DESIGN: Esther Bundellu Welcome Santa with a big Christmas cheer at Sunshine Plaza.

Join in the fun at the Oliver Bear’s Christmas Show, then meet Santa,

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

his favourite friends and Kung Fu Panda.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

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Welcome to

Kids on the Coast

oAST C the Ids on K R U O f Some O

tors u B I R nt CO ‘Like’ us on Facebook

www.facebook.com/kidsonthecoast

Each year Christmas decorations seem to appear earlier and earlier.

My 2 year old daughter recently asked me why there were so many Christmas trees around when it wasn’t time for Christmas yet. It is hard explaining retail sales trends to a toddler, so I just told her that it gave us more time to enjoy the Christmas spirit. And I have decided that this year that is what I will do.

The arrival of Christmas items in stores may have got you thinking of your Christmas plans. Our November/ December edition, explores everything from Christmas traditions to Christmas gift ideas.

We also look at the challenges faced by parents whose children are perfectionists and how to help them overcome negative patterns of behaviour. Our education feature delves into learning styles, and explores the impact on your child’s education.

This month we are launching a new section – It’s all about you! , a mixture of products, research and information that make a parent’s life easier, healthier or more relaxing.

Over the next few months we are looking to you to tell us what you think of Kids on the Coast. We are completing our biggest reader survey ever and would love to hear from you. Of course, there is the added bonus of the chance to win a fantastic Gold Coast getaway for readers who complete the survey, so make sure that you visit our website and tell us what you think.* As always, we would love to hear from you, so please feel free to contact me via Facebook.com/ kidsonthecoast, our website or email.

Have a wonderful holiday season!

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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After thirty years as a Special Education teacher, mum of two Maxine, is now enjoying a second career as a journalist.

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Starting her career in travel productdevelopment and publishing, Kim moved to the coast and three gorgeous kids later she now writes freelance articles, words for websites, and life-stories from home.

1. Maxine Arthur

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With her novel “in progress”, freelance journalist and web editor Sandra, can’t imagine life without her kids.

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When he is not climbing and travelling, the dad of two is a physiotherapist and freelance writer.

Luke’s interest in the techniques of learning and communicating ideas and skills stems from his 15 years of experience as a physiotherapist.

*See the website for competition terms and conditions

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3. Sandra Smith

4. Luke Goldston

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Rachel Adams is currently SunSmart Programs Co-ordinator at Cancer Council Queensland.

The mother of two has a passion for educating people about how to lead healthy lifestyles that improve their health, wellbeing and overall happiness.

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As a parent and now a grandparent, Managing Director of Travel with Kidz Wendy has over 15 years’ experience in local and international travel planning with children.

6. Wendy Buckley 5. Rachel Adams

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A former magazine publisher turned writer, Aleney traded a designer wardrobe for vomit stained trackydaks and sleepless nights. And wouldn’t change a thing.

David McIntosh is a Paediatric ENT and Sinus Specialist. He is both a generally trained and sub-specialist trained ENT surgeon and also has a PhD in ENT.

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Jackie

Jackie Goldston Editor

2. Kim Lahey

advertiser alert!

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Sneak peek at our next issue:

7. Aleney de Winter

8. Dr David McIntosh

• The importance of teaching your child not to give up • Social skills and learning • First aid for parents: what we all really need to know!

• Designer babies: precluding genetic disorders • What chemicals are in children’s hygiene products?

Got a product or service that has something to do with these topics?

Like to tell our readers all about it? Call 1300 430 320 for advertising info. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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S ' T A H W

S W Ne WIN

COLD WATER STILL BEST FOR BURNS

A Gold Coast Getaway:

Kids on the Coast Readers Survey

This month we are launching our largest ever survey to find out what you think about our magazine, what you would like to see in it and so much more! And to thank you for taking the time to complete the survey, you will go in the draw to win a 3 night family holiday at the Gold Coast, including 4 tickets to Dreamworld and passes to Skypoint. Simply visit our website and click through the survey link on our home page! Visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

DID YOU KNOW…?

After years of testing, the Centre of Children’s Burns and Trauma Research says running cold water on a burn for 20 minutes is the most effective first aid treatment.

Professor Roy Kimble from Royal Children’s Hospital says that this first aid relieves pain, but can also reduce the depth of a burn.

Professor Kimble said home remedies, such as aloe vera, tea tree oil and ice were all found to be ineffective in reducing the depth of a burn. Approximately 700 new children are admitted at the Royal Children’s Hospital each year for burns, with this number steadily increasing. Of the 1500 burns in Queensland each year, only 12 per cent of victims currently received the correct first aid treatment

For every person on earth, there are an estimated 200 million insects Between 1942 and 1944, Academy Awards were made of plaster.

STAY AT HOME DADS THE MINORITY While the days of the stay-at-home mum being the only carer are over, a recent report by the Australian Institute of Family Studies shows men still spend less time with their children due to work commitments. Research reveals the proportion of families in which both the mother and father work part-time hours is very small, at less than 3% overall.

Nearly three quarters of men surveyed agreed their full-time jobs helped them to better appreciate the time they spent with their children. Just over half agreed their work had a positive effect on their children and almost half agreed working made them a better parent.

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Y T I N U COMM Christmas Tree Trail

Sunshine Coast Council’s annual Christmas Tree Trail will be bigger and better than ever and with the launch on 23rd November at Mooloolaba. Christmas trees range in size and species and each will have a unique set of dazzling decorations.

Environmentally friendly Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting features across all of the trees, keeping with council’s vision for the Sunshine Coast to be Australia’s most sustainable region – vibrant, green and diverse. And for the first time, passers-by will be able to use new scan-code technology to download the ‘story behind the tree’ with a simple swipe of their iPhones and smart phones.

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

FESTIVE SEASON

It’s that time of year again where we kick back and reflect on the year that was. There are a number of Council organised community celebrations across the region where families and friends can get together and celebrate. Carols at Cotton Tree on Saturday 3 December, or Carols on Kings (at Kings Beach) and Noosa Carols on the River (Noosaville Lions Park) both on Sunday 18 December, all kick off at 6.30pm. Celebrations will feature carols singa-longs, a special visit from Santa and a fireworks extravaganza to end the evening.

Mooloolaba New Year’s Eve is a free, family-friendly event packed full of live entertainment and fun activities. For more information about these family events, visit council’s website or call (07) 5475 7272.

Slide on in

Aussie World is opening yet another attraction and this one is the first of its type on the Sunshine Coast! The new ride is a log flume ride with not one but two steep climbs and drop-offs. Opening in December it’ll be an entertaining way to keep cool on a hot Queensland day.

Keep an eye on www.aussieworld.com.au for further updates. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

K C e CH

THIS OUT

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Smelly Shirts Food time made cleaner Super cute melamine toddler trays designed by Stephen Joseph Gifts are not only visually appealing; they’re also 100% safe for your little ones to use. These trays are BPA, lead and phthalate-free, giving you complete peace of mind. RRP: $22.50 Available from Kuddly Kids Buderim 5445 2486; Amazen Caloundra, Sunshine Plaza and Montville or from www.skeddadle.com.au

Adorable shirts that smell like the picture on them. Yes – they really do! It is amazing to watch the reactions on your kids’ faces when they smell the fruity scent on their t-shirt. RRP: $26.50 Available from www.smelliesclothing.com; Bambini Emporium Mooloolaba 5477 7810, Think Kids Noosa 5447 4622, Kuddly Kids Buderim 5445 2486, www.tenlittleindians.com.au

Finger Paint Soap Finger painting fun without the mess. Just pop the kids in the bath or shower with the finger paint soap and wash it away when you are finished. And of course, there is the wonderful bonus of having clean kids! RRP $12.95 Buderim Pharmacy 5445 1230, Healthy Pharmacy Caloundra 5492 7163, Noosa Heads Pharmacy 54473298, Pelican Waters Pharmacy 5492 3455 or info@tinsonax.com.au for alternative stockists

Don’t adjust yourself!

High cot and seat position equal less bending. Joolz Prams have a mission: to design smart pushchairs that look good and are in tune with the body.

Cool looking prams that adjust to you, not the other way around.

RRP: from $1,299 Package deals available www.pramcity.com.au

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Summer and Salt Locally designed and Australian made, this stunning rashie and swimsuit range will have the whole family looking fabulous and feeling great.

Beautifully designed and made in quality fabrics, you won’t want to take them off when you leave the water.

From $25 for boys swim trucks and from $40 for girls swimwear www.summerandsalt.com.au NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

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FEATURE

C H A L L EN G IN G

Perfection When you are your own harshest critic. by

Maxine Arthur

Striving to be perfect is a seed planted early in life these days. For the first four or five years simply being ourselves is enough. Every new skill, mastered when we are ready, is greeted joyfully. Nobody rates our achievements. We are valued as individuals: love is unconditional.

achievement of goals, discounting this as being too easy, and constantly revising their goals upwards so that eventually achievement of the goal is no longer possible.

Failure to achieve goals is met with self-criticism and can lead to ongoing depression, anxiety, or disordered eating.”

The weight of expectation

Unhealthy perfectionism can turn people into avoiders, procrastinators or obsessive performance checkers.

Authors of Overcoming perfectionism, Roz Shafran, Sarah Egan and Tracey Wade, say:

Entering the wider world of school and community brings higher expectations from parents, teachers and sports coaches. Sometimes the messages are subtle and sometimes blunt, but they stay with us for life. The basic message is that the world is a very competitive place and you need to work very hard to ensure future success. The harder you work, the better you’ll do. Mistakes can cost you good grades or your place on the football team. Practice makes perfect.

We all want our children to do well in life: we encourage them to reach their full potential. The problem lies in how that message is interpreted.

Your hopes for your child may be seen by them as expectations. They may wonder what happens if they don’t live up to those expectations. Some children conclude that nothing less than perfection is acceptable and strive to achieve unrealistic goals.

Some are so paralysed by a fear of failure that they under-achieve.

I’m never good enough There are many positives to perfectionism but there is also a downside. Flinders University psychologist and author, Professor Tracey Wade, has studied perfectionism and its relationship to anxiety, depression and eating disorders. She is co-author of the book Overcoming Perfectionism. Wade says:

“If I had to live my life over again, I’d dare to make more mistakes next time.”

The first lines of a poem by Nadine Stair, 85 years old, of Louisville, Kentucky.

“Unhealthy perfectionism is when attaining excellence and high standards start to produce a negative impact on the person. They are never pleased with

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

“Someone with perfectionism fears the worst possible outcome in their performance, and so, rather than risk being faced with that poor performance, chooses to avoid the possibility of it happening.”

They don’t sit the exam, they don’t compete in the race, or they won’t try new things for fear of failing.

Avoidance means that they never have the chance to find out if their performance may be better than they fear, the authors say.

“Avoidance also means you don’t get a chance to practice a task, learn from mistakes and continue to improve as a result.”

Procrastination, another form of avoidance behaviour, is common among perfectionists.

“It often stems from a fear of failure so intense that the person would rather put off starting a task than risk failing to perform it to the high standard they have set themselves.” Instead of the perfect result the perfectionist is striving for, the opposite happens.

“Continually delaying getting started on a task is likely to heighten anxiety to a degree that there is simply not enough time left to produce a good performance when the task is finally embarked on… Procrastination can also lead to an accumulation of tasks, so that when one actually has to start doing something, the prospect of just starting can seem overwhelming,” they explain.

Performance checking is also a common behaviour of perfectionists, the authors say. The perfectionist may continually redo a task, compare themselves to others, or seek reassurance from other people about how well they have carried out the task. Perfectionists ‘often choose unrealistic people to compare themselves to’ and they may only focus on negatives in feedback while ignoring the positives. The perfectionist then worries even more about their performance. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

“When children are happy and having fun – they learn” – Gina

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FEATURE Your hopes for your child may be seen by them as They may wonder what happens if they don’t live up to those expectations.

expectations.

Is your child struggling with perfectionism?

Psychologist and author Thomas S. Greenspon, Ph.D. says: “Perfectionism is not simply a need to do well. It’s not just being proud of doing well. Perfectionism comes from a deep fear of not doing well enough.

Perfectionists worry about this because they have a conviction that being perfect is the only way to be acceptable as a person.”

Greenspon describes typical perfectionist behaviours in children: • They always have to win • They agree to do way too many things at the same time

have had experiences that lead them to develop a view of the world that encourages the pursuit of unrelenting high standards (for example, ‘I must never make mistakes’).”

“Studies have shown that people who avoid seeking out novelty, who are highly dependent on rewards from others, and who persist towards goals despite frustration and fatigue, are more likely to develop perfectionism.

But having this sort of temperament does not mean that your perfectionism cannot be changed.”

Greenspon warns that children may model themselves on perfectionist parents. He says:

• They use negative self-talk like “How could I be so stupid”.

• They have a hard time making choices

He suggests parents ask themselves:

• They frequently criticise others

Being a perfectionist is exhausting and self-defeating, Greenspon says.

• Am I frequently critical of things or people?

• Do I look for and comment on things that aren’t quite right?

• Do I ‘hover’ over my children to see that everything is done correctly?

• Do I ever comment on what I appreciate?

• Do I compare one child to another?

• Do I have a home that feels safe and calm? (A child may strive for perfection in order to divert attention from family problems.)

Greenspon says it is also helpful to consider what your parents expected from you and how they conveyed this. Are you replaying same messages you received as a child?

How does unhealthy perfectionism develop?

Lightening the load of perfectionism

• They always compare their work with others • They always have to be in control • They pay more attention to the negative than positive comments • They never seem satisfied with their work • They get carried away with the details • They procrastinate • They are terrified of making mistakes • They don’t like to try new things

Perfectionism is thought to be a result of both environmental factors and natural temperament.

The Centre for Clinical Interventions (CCI, Western Australia Department of Health) says that children may develop rigid and inflexible beliefs about achievement and self-worth through experiences at home and school: “Our view of ourselves and the world starts to develop very early in life and is influenced by our early experiences (for example, our family, society, school, peer group) and by our temperament. Perfectionists

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

“Perfectionism can rob you of your peace of mind, enjoyment of life, and self-esteem.”

Temperament may also play a part, the CCI says.

“In spite of the best intentions, parents can send unwanted messages to their children regarding their expectations. It’s important for you to examine what messages you are sending.”

• They rarely let others help with a project

article Overcoming Perfectionism: How to Develop a Healthier Outlook she says:

In an ABC interview in July, Wade said the key to overcoming unhealthy perfectionism is to see failures in context.

“Focus on your whole life and avoid the temptation to define yourself by a list of achievements,” she said.

“Self-compassion and kindness is also important, because criticism and abuse is not the way to get the best out of anyone, including yourself.”

She suggests the following steps for decreasing the stress of perfectionism: • Make a cost-benefit analysis. You may think your perfectionist traits make you more effective, but research says this probably isn’t true. List the ways perfectionism is hurting you (and those around you) and you’ll be more motivated to change.

• Become aware of your tendencies. Write down when you feel you have failed, or haven’t done well enough, and what you thought at the time. If you become aware of your patterns, you’re in a better position to alter them.

• See the positive. Perfectionists are skilled at spotting their own and other’s mistakes.

Make a conscious effort to notice the good in your own and other’s work and achievements.

• Alter your self-talk. Perfectionists tend to have a critical voice in their head telling them their work isn’t good enough, they’re not trying hard enough, and they’re not good enough.

(Links from Scott’s article give practical tips on changing your self-talk.)

• Take baby steps. Reduce your stress by setting bite-sized goals and rewarding yourself when you achieve them.

• Learn to handle criticism. Instead of reacting defensively to criticism see if it can give you important clues on how to improve performance. If criticism is harsh, remind others (and yourself) that mistakes are a great way to learn.

(Adapted from the article)

Elizabeth Scott is an American health educator specialising in stress management. In an online www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

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FEATURE

The most difficult part of attaining is finding something to do for an encore.

perfection

Author Unknown

Helping a child overcome unhealthy perfectionism What can you do to help a child who continually sets the bar too high and then berates themselves for not measuring up to their own standards? How can you help a child become less anxious, fearful and selfcritical?

Wade suggests that you: “Encourage them to do their best, but remind them that who they are is also important. For example, their value as a friend matters as much as what they achieve.

Promote the value of giving things a try. Teach kids that mistakes are a valuable way of learning how to do things better.

Be a model for ‘near enough is good enough’ in your own life. Comment on mistakes you have made and their value in terms of lessons learned.

Have regular meals together. Conversations around the dinner table are an opportunity for parents to share what they do in their working day and how they cope when things don’t go according to plan.

Promote the value of flexibility rather than black and white thinking.”

Greenspon says the key to helping your child overcome perfectionism is about creating an environment of acceptance.

“If kids can feel acceptable – loved, cherished and appreciated – regardless of how well they do something, then not only will the perfectionism fade, but their ability to improve will be enhanced as well.”

He recommends that you try to ‘understand the world through your child’s eyes’. Telling him or her that it’s ‘silly’ to be worried about a less than perfect performance won’t help. Ask your child to tell you what their viewpoint is.

“Accept that for what it is, and then do what you can to reassure her that you do love and respect her – and that you feel that way for reasons that have nothing to do with the grades she gets.”

Greenspon says that true dialogue with your child – ‘where you and your child are talking and listening to one another’ goes a long way to solving

12

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

problems. Really hear what your child says and ‘if you become aware that you have played a role in painful interactions, an apology can help your child in powerful ways’. “If you can say, ‘I’m sorry for this mistake: I’ll work on that and make a difference’, then your child can also begin to see that mistakes can be looked at and learned from, and they are not signs of a flawed character. This kind of dialogue then becomes an anti-perfectionism vaccine”, Greenspon says.

Encouraging your child is important, the author reminds us.

“Telling your kids what you appreciate about them, thanking them for things they have done, participating with them in their sense of pride or disappointment about something are all ways of letting them know they are cherished and hold an important place in your life.”

Greenspon concludes that ‘It is only when people feel acceptable as people that a mistake can be just a mistake’. That summarises the difference between the healthy high achiever and the unhealthy perfectionist.

Further information Perfectionism in Children, an article by Leah Davies on www.kellybear.com Perfectionism: the road to failure, an article on www.abc.net.au Recommended reading For parents: Overcoming Perfectionism: a self-help guide using cognitive behavioural techniques by Roz Shafran, Sarah Egan and Tracey Wade. Publisher: Robinson PB $24.95 For older children or parents: What To Do When Good Isn’t Good Enough: The Real Deal on Perfectionism: a Guide for Kids by Thomas Greenspon. Publisher: Free Spirit PB $10.95 This book helps kids and parents to understand what perfectionism is, how it can hurt them, and how they can free themselves from it.

Ten top signs your a perfectionist 1

You can’t stop thinking about a mistake you made.

2

You are intensely competitive and can’t stand doing worse than others.

3

You either want to do something ‘just right’ or not at all.

4

You demand perfection from other people.

5

You won’t ask for help if asking can be perceived as a flaw or weakness.

6

You will persist at a task long after other people have quit.

7

You are a fault-finder who must correct other people when they are wrong.

8

You are highly aware of other people’s demands and expectations.

9

You are very self-conscious about making mistakes in front of other people.

10

You noticed the error in the title of this list.

Source: www.bellbridgeps.vic.edu.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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d ite m ots le! ou i L p b S ila so y t a ly ou Av ear iss ok ’t m Bo don

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NeW

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 Sunshine 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.

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Looking to lose weight the healthy way?

Focusing on your health and wellbeing can be hard with a new baby and importantly you need to nurture your body and be careful in your choices.

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Trusted, reliable, mobile childminding

First Aid before you need it

You can be confident that your children will be in capable hands with the team at Ladybirds & Dragonflies. This award winning mobile childminding service will be there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week throughout South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales. All staff have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of children’s developmental, emotional and physical needs in a variety of situations prior to joining the team. In addition to being formally qualified staff must also hold current first aid certification and undergo a successful police check before gaining employment .

What better way to make sure those who will play an important role in your baby’s life are first aid trained than to hold a group first aid course? First Aid For You offer a 2 hour information and demonstration session on the most important child related first aid any parent, grand parent, parent to be or any person in care of children should learn! During this relaxed and hands on session at the location of your choice, you will learn the skills and gain understanding on how to manage child related emergencies, these include child and baby resuscitation; choking; allergic reaction management; asthma management; blood loss; burns; poisoning, bites and stings; head injuries and fractures; and convulsions and fevers. First Aid For You also offer 40 minute baby shower courses! Call now to book your session on 1300 853 050 or www.firstaidforyou.com.au.

With all services being eligible for Registered Childcare Benefit, an extensive range of childminding options available and the ability to customise your own service; when you need mobile childminding offering peace of mind, contact the Ladybirds & Dragonflies Childminding team .

Ph 07 54330575 Fax 07 54330570 Mob 0459 323 958

Email: ladybirds05@bigpond.com

14

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Minimum group size of 6 people only - 7 days a week

WE COME TO YOU (in your own home or venue of your choice)

1300 853 050 www.firstaidforyou.com.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Making Imaginative Play Easy!

Timeless toys at affordable prices

Let your children’s imagination run free, and keep them safely entertained for hours in your own backyard, with a unique outdoor themed cubby, just in time for Christmas!

Absolut Toys is a new Sunshine Coast based family run business that is passionate about providing quality toys at affordable prices that last generations. Sourced from Australia, Europe and all over the globe, Absolut Toys are chosen to create an environment that promotes learning, development and endless fun. In the age of computers and busy schedules, quality toys offer families the opportunity to share quality time and enjoy each other’s company. Children’s ‘at play’ time is one way they start learning about the world they are in, role playing what they see around them, and spending time working out how they fit into their world.

Little Monkeys are a new business on the Sunshine Coast, and are very excited about their new range of products for children. As adults we all have fond memories of outdoor play, but it is important to remember the simple things that children enjoy too. Little Monkeys cubbies combine the child’s needs and wants in a safe structure.

They custom-design high quality timber cubbies, allowing your children to explore their fantasies by getting lost in the world of war planes, fire engines, pirate ships or trains! Xmas Idea! Gift Registry Available. Have family and

With Christmas just around the corner, you will find a varied and exciting selection of toys in store now. Absolut Toys offers toys that will stay with children for life.

Phone (07) 5326 1051 or visit www.absolut-toys.com

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You’ll love watch ing your childre n create their own adven tures with Little Monke ys Play System s.

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Jump start your event with Casper Jumping Castles

More than meets the eye

Want to hire a Jumping Castle for your event on the Sunshine Coast? Casper Jumping Castles service from Caboolture and Bribie Island through to Gympie and the Hinterland in-between. They offer a variety of Castles to accommodate your party needs and have a great range of themed Jumping Castles and Combos.

Cherub Childminding Service Family Day Care is so much more than Family Day Care. With the launch of its non-for profit organisation, Cherub Charity, they have started a second hand clothing store, soup kitchen lounge, food parcels, organise and host fundraisers for Daffodil Day, Jeans 4 Gene’s day, and the Princess Charlotte Alopecia Foundation to name just a few.

Casper Jumping Castles is a local family run business that offers efficient and friendly service and pride themselves on reliability and customer satisfaction.

Their castles are cleaned and checked for safety; they deliver, set up and pull down the castle for you; can offer supervision on request, and have comprehensive public liability cover. Their Jumping Castles are ideal for parties, fetes, sporting events, pre-schools, corporate functions and fundraising.

They also have set up wellness workshops and social groups for the local community; including Between the Lines, their new readers group and the Creative Cherub group, an outlet for those who love to express themselves creatively with painting, beading and poetry. For more information please do not hesitate to contact CCM on the details below or look up each group on Facebook!

Casper

Jumping Castles

We Provide :

Don’t forget to

to see our specials!

ls

• Organic Mea

Want to hire a Jumping Castle for your event on the Sunshine Coast?

• Pick-up & Drop off Ser

vice

We offer a range of Castles to accommodate your party needs.

Our Jumping Castles are ideal • Great range of Disney licenced for: Birthday Parties, Weddings, and themed Jumping Castles.

Engagements, Christenings, • Family run business with efficient Sporting Events, Pre and friendly service Schools,Promotions, Corporate • We pride ourselves on reliability Events, Fundraising,Fetes. and customer satisfaction.

Phone: 04 2785 5385 www.casperjumpingcastles.com.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

15

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Exploring flight history

Surfmonk …we are all islands… oceans connect us

Almost all children have a fascination with flying and what better way to inspire them than to spend a day at the iconic Queensland Air Museum (QAM) in Caloundra. Open every day during the school holidays (except Christmas Day) from 10am to 4pm there is so much to see and explore. Check out Herbie the Helicopter, along with 2 hangers filled with planes, helicopters and historic operational aircraft engines, as well as the library, workshop and courtyards.

Make sure you put Saturday 14 January in your diary for the Aero Engine Run Day, from 10am to 4pm. The awesome sight and sound of a 1500 horsepower 14 cylinder radial engine powering up is an unforgettable experience. Visitors are encouraged to inspect the engines between runs and talk to the volunteers who restored them.

Australian boutique beachwear brand, Chillorilla now offer an adorable yet sustainable collection of the iconic Californian surf brand ‘SurfMonk’. Made from the softest organic eco fibres of bamboo and cotton, Surfmonk is the creation of Claudia Taylor, who grew up in California across from Point Break. This range is very different from anything else available in Australia and includes children’s hooded beach towels, ladies beach robes and men’s beach robes for changing after the surf. The robes are made from a bamboo and organic cotton mix with double locked hems, cool intentionally frayed edges, little touches like genuine mandala prayer beads and the distinctive labels running down the hoods which carry the motto “…we are all islands…oceans connect us…” www.chillorilla.com.au - chillorilla is the Australian Distributor for Surfmonk

Luxury Eco Fibre Hooded Beach robes for Kids & Babies in Bamboo & organic cotton.

Sat 14 Jan 2012 10.00am until 4.00pm phone/Fax (07) 54925930

Find uS on Facebook

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Pull them on at the beach or pool with big roomy sleeves to get in and out of togs.

Surfmonk robes are made to last! free Postage on orders over $100

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Skate on ice this summer holidays!

Are you looking for a great way to try something different, get fit and stay cool this summer? Beginners are welcome to join the Learn to Skate Program on a Saturday morning from 9 – 10am.

Want a party that your kids will remember? Rollerdrome parties are great value and a lot of fun. Or why not fundraise for your school, sports team or community group by holding your breakup party at the Rollerdrome. The fundraisers are easy to book and for every admission, $2.50 goes to the school or group. Cool off and enjoy the thrill of skating on ice this summer.

19 Caloundra Road, Caloundra, Sunshine Coast, QLD Ph 07 5491 4255 www.rollerdrome.com.au 16

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

PO S S PA

O T T R

GRAB your Passport to Fun.

T N E NM

I A T ER T N E E TH E N R O F YM R E EV Meet ANIMALS and Max & Milly

visit the Customer Service Centre located next to the newsagency near Kmart.

DATE: Time:

1 NOV 2011 9am to Midday

New MacDonald’s Farm © 2011 Nine Films & Television Pty Limited and Beyond Properties Pty Limited. New MacDonald’s Farm TM under license from Beyond Properties Pty Limited

Santa’s Arrival DATE: Time:

Mrs Claus Storytelling

19 NOV 2011 FROM 9am

DATE: Time:

6 DEC 2011 9am, 10AM, 11AM

Roary the Racing Car™ Live Show

Roary the Racing Car™ Craft Village

DATES: 9-13 Jan 2012 Time: 11am & 1pm

DATES: 16-20 Jan 2012 Time: 11am to 2pm

© Chapman Entertainment Limited & David Jenkins 2012

© Chapman Entertainment Limited & David Jenkins 2012

Meet Bananas in Pyjamas DATE: Time:

7 FEB 2012 9am to Midday

Bananas in Pyjamas © Australian Broadcast Corporation, licensed in association with Southern Star Entertainment 2012

turn your stamps into prizes!

BIP_PRIMARY LOGO

Have your Passport to Fun stamped at each event by taking it to the Customer Service Centre on the event day. All Sunshine Squirts members who journey to six events will win a cool prize.

Continue your journey and you will receive another prize when you reach 12 stamps!

How cool is that!

Check Sunshineplaza.com a week before the event to confirm time and location.

For more information visit the Customer Service Centre or www.sunshineplaza.com www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

17

THE ‘P’ Files

The benefits of boredom By Sandra Smith

“I’m bored!” It’s a niggling whine that

gets under our skin; a familiar growl of discontent.

Maybe its school holidays or another rainy day, but whatever the reason, our children’s world seems dull and they crave stimulation and excitement.

The relentless whinging is irritating, so what’s the solution? Perhaps a quick-fix of entertainment? A new Xbox game or a trip to the movies? Or would they benefit from the experience of boredom?

If we provide entertainment every time our children whinge, they become more dependent on us to solve their problems and it reinforces their learned helplessness. Try stepping back when the kids complain about feeling bored. This can empower them to find their own way out of the boredom, and the problem-solving process helps them feel good about themselves. Kids need downtime and an oversupply of “things” can, in fact, just produce more discontent.

18

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Technology contributes to the problem of boredom as children rely on their screens for passive entertainment, but unplugging the media can lead to a major meltdown. Without the drip-feed of technology, children have to relearn to play and engage with the real world and real people. This is not easy, so be prepared for some agonising moments of utter misery when their screen-time is reduced.

Self-directed play University of the Sunshine Coast Associate Professor Dr Michael Nagel says we shouldn’t be too concerned if our children say they are bored, as they are actually quite capable of entertaining themselves.

“Self-entertainment requires children to think of things to do and to think of how to make use of the immediate environment,” he says.

“They then use this to create imaginary worlds, build cubby houses, or just about anything else that previous generations might have done. Freedom and

independence to explore through self-directed play is an important aspect of child development.”

Dr Nagel says children have an “amazing capacity” to play with the most mundane things and find enjoyment in them, and they don’t need to be overloaded with the latest sophisticated toys.

“People hear the word ‘play’ and they assume it has to be always some measure of entertainment,” he says. “I like the word ‘exploration’, because kids will find they will be able to play with plastic bowls and get enjoyment out of that.”

The teenager’s world As kids grow older, their entertainment comes from their friends and various activities that involve their peers, for example, sports or music.

Technology and social media is an important part of the teenagers’ world, but Dr Nagel explains that technology requires children to act as passive

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

’S A T N SA G N I M CO N W O TO T

w o W

E V I R M R A A 9 A T M N O A R S F E ER SE B M E E V G O A N T S 19 K L A W R E V I R

Welcome Santa with a big Christmas cheer at Sunshine Plaza.

Join in the fun at the Oliver Bear’s Christmas Show, then meet Santa, his favourite friends and Kung Fu Panda. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

19

THE ‘P’ Files

Self-entertainment requires children to think of things to do and to think of how to make use of the immediate environment

recipients of information and it cannot offer the same type of human and social interactions the real world does.

“You don’t have to spend a lot of money. There are skate parks and libraries—you can utilise what the Council provides,” Ben says.

“There is some worrying research suggesting that the today’s media environments may be having a negative impact on children’s capacities for paying attention and as such, children may find it difficult to entertain themselves,” he says. “You have to try and find a balance, to make sure that it’s not their entire world.”

“There are parks pretty much within a kilometre of any house, really, so you can always walk to the park, or you can go down to the duck pond and feed the ducks.

He advises parents to set firm, consistent guidelines about technology use and also to model appropriate behaviour with their own use of technology.

The essentials: safety, security and love Dr Nagel says kids don’t necessarily need to be stimulated all the time—they need downtime, to rest and relax. “Children’s brains are growing and changing and need a rest just like the body needs a rest,” he says.

Responding positively to children with our full attention is beneficial for their development, but Dr Nagel says that doesn’t mean we have to be the sole provider of entertainment for our kids, because the day-to-day reality is that most parents are busy.

“In terms of really healthy development what we know about children is that they need safety, security and positive relationships, and everything else seems to take care of itself after that,” he says.

Resources at home and in the local area Father of three, Ben Hewitt, believes that parents take too much responsibility for entertaining their children, and this can mean that kids always “want” something and can’t amuse themselves. Ben says there are plenty of cost-effective ways for children to occupy themselves around the home and in the local community.

His three children, Coco, 12, Noah, 10, and fiveyear-old Jaega, are resourceful and they usually find something to do. A piece of chalk can lead to a game of hopscotch in the driveway, and other activities include drawing and artwork, reading books, playing with Lego, gardening, make-believe, tea parties and simple free play.

20

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

“If you’re cleaning the house, why not involve them?

Let them grab a broom or a washer and wipe down the bench or do the dishes. There’s no age limit on that.”

The latest toys don’t necessarily bring hours of entertainment, and Ben says that the children often end up forgetting about them.

“They play with them once or whatever, and then they end up playing with the cardboard box that the toy came in,” he says.

Holiday fun A keen surfer, Ben often takes the kids on surfing trips and in the school holidays, they go camping on some of Queensland’s stunning islands, beaches and rivers.

The family travelled around Australia for nine months, staying in remote communities, meeting many fascinating characters along the way and learning about the Australian environment firsthand. At night they went spotlighting and saw possums, bilbies and numbats, and by day, they fished and swam and went for bushwalks.

Teens and technology Now that they’ve settled back into life on the Coast, Ben finds that 12-year-old Coco spends more time on the computer than her younger brothers.

“Once they hit that cusp, that transition from childhood to teenagers, they become more reliant on technology,” Ben says.

All children complain about being bored at some point, but Ben says it’s more of an issue for Coco and he believes that like many preteen and teenage girls, her “boredom” stems from a desire to go out and spend money, whether it’s at the movies or shopping.

Ben monitors the children’s screen time and if they are spending too long on the computer, he simply disconnects the modem.

“You have to, otherwise they get zoned out...and before you know it they’ve been on it for two hours or four hours,” he says. “Kids have been fine for thousands of years without technology, so I don’t think there’s any harm in turning all your multi- media products off.

They might have a whinge about it for half an hour, but they’ll soon forget about it. They move on pretty quickly.”

A disconnect from all screens Columnist, author and mother-of-three Susan Maushart decided to pull the plug on everything electronic in the family home for six months because she was worried that her teenage kids were living their lives through screens.

“We were so totally connected, yet so worryingly disconnected. I was also really, really, really curious to test out whether being online 24/7 was essential to my kids’ learning, as they had always protested, or just a scam to get more time chatting with friends, buying stuff on eBay, watching catch-up TV and downloading music,” she says.

“To be honest, I wasn’t that far behind them. My relationship with my iPhone had all the intensity of an illicit affair. I even gave it a pet name and started buying it outfits.”

All types of screens, including TV, DVDs, Internet, computers of any kind, smartphones and iPods, were off limits for six months. The experiment became the subject of a book, The Winter of Our Disconnect.

The struggle with boredom Susan says that without technology, her kids struggled with boredom, especially in the early weeks.

“That was part of my evil plan: I wanted them to experience boredom, and then to experience taking responsibility for alleviating it in more self-reliant, novel, creative ways,” she says.

“The weird thing was, their friends wanted to hang out with us. The novelty value of a home where ‘hanging out’ meant talking, listening to music, playing board games, cooking and making up idiotic and wildly fun games proved irresistible. Go figure…” www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

21

THE ‘P’ ‘P’ Files Files THE

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Susan says the word “boredom” needs to be examined closely, because it covers a lot of ground.

“If we never allow our kids to have what is euphemistically called ‘downtime’ we deprive them of the joy of developing an inner life, inner resources,” she says.

“The thought that we may be raising a generation of kids who have lost the art of daydreaming, for example, is to me very depressing.”

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The Graceful Sport Calisthenics offers the Unique combination of Dance & Ballet, along with Gymnastics, March, Singing, Acting, Apparatus Technique with Rods & Clubs & above all, the excitement of Stage Performances.

It is this variety that makes Calisthenics so appealing to children of all ages.

The rewards of disconnecting The biggest reward from the disconnect experience for Susan’s family was the improved quality of their interactions as a family.

“We got closer. Much closer. We had more fun. We … connected. That was the prize, really,” she says.

Susan also realised that she had a responsibility as a parent and as a person, to use media deliberately and to make conscious, informed choices instead of throwing up her hands because “it’s all too hard.”

“My kids learned to take responsibility for their own boredom – and by extension for their lives,” she says.

“They were appalled to discover what a time-suck their various media habits had become. And, like me, they experienced firsthand the power of making choices about media.”

Further reading: The Winter of our Disconnect by Susan Maushart (Random House)

22

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Suncoast Calisthenics is the longest running Calisthenics Club on the Sunshine Coast and was established in 1978. Girls of all ages enjoy the beautiful sport that is Calisthenics. For 2012 we are recruiting new teams in all ages divisions; Tinies 4-7 years, Sub Juniors 8-9 years, Juniors 10-12 years and Inters 13-16 years.

Suncoast Calisthenics Club is holding a Christmas Gala Concert on Saturday 5th November 2011 at Mountain Creek State High School Auditorium. New families have the opportunity to view 2011 concert; one child is free with paying parent.

TICKET PRICES ARE $10 FOR ADULTS AND $5 FOR CHILDREN.

THE CONCERT WILL RUN FROM 1PM TO 3PM WITH SEATING FROM 12.30PM.

For more information please contact Stacey on 5478 0272 or 0402 753 114 or Paula on 5443 2990 (b/h) or 5443 6635.

www.mycala.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

23

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FESTIVE COOKING WITH KIDS Gingerbread Men Students at New Leaf enjoying cooking as part of their specialist lesson timetable and with the holidays looming here’s a fun and festive recipe you can try at home with the kids during the Christmas break.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes / Cooking Time: 10 minutes / Makes: 20

Ingredients

Melted butter, to grease perature 125g butter, at room tem ) brown sugar ked pac ly firm , cup 100g (1/2 up 125ml (1/2 cup) golden syr 1 egg, separated r 375g (2 1/2 cups) plain flou ger gin und 1 tbs gro 1 tsp mixed spice 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda Plain flour, to dust ar, sifted 150g (1 cup) pure icing sug uring colo 8-10 drops red liquid food uring colo d foo id 8-10 drops green liqu te ora Smarties, to dec

C

Method 1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Brush 2 baking trays with melted butter to lightly grease.

2. Use an electric beater to beat the butter and sugar in a bowl until pale and creamy. Add the golden syrup and egg yolk and beat until combined. Stir in the flour, ginger, mixed spice and bicarbonate of soda. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth. Press dough into a disc. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for 30 minutes to rest.

3. Meanwhile, place egg white in a clean, dry bowl. Use an electric beater to beat until soft peaks form. Gradually add icing sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.

Divide icing among 3 bowls. Cover 1 bowl with plastic wrap and place in the fridge. Add red colouring to 1 bowl and stir until combined. Add green colouring to remaining bowl and stir until combined. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge.

4. Place the dough between 2 sheets of baking paper and roll out until about 4mm thick. Use a 9cm gingerbread man cutter to cut out shapes. Place on trays about 3cm apart. Repeat with any excess dough.

5. Bake in oven for 10 minutes or until brown. Remove from oven. Transfer to a rack to cool.

6. Place prepared icings in small plastic bags. Cut a small hole in a corner of each bag. Pipe icing over gingerbread men to decorate. Finish with Smarties.

These gingerbread men are both fun and easy to make, and, what’s more, the kids will love them!

This is just a taste of what fun New Leaf will be offering as part of their Holiday Program which runs over the December/ January break.

To find out more enquire today (07) 5453 7077.

l o n g ation a e o m inform

y, ep re-pr ednesda P r u to o ing on W 23 even ovember .

N 30pm at 6:

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FREE SUNGLASSES for your children when they get their eyes examined by a Looking Smart Optometrist.

Did you know…

30% of children have some type of eye condition that affects vision?

In most cases if the eye condition is detected early enough, exercises can be given to avoid it developing into a vision problem at school. In some cases vision problems exhibit themselves in children who have short attention spans but often are undetected by the parents or carers.

Free pair of sunglasses (Up to RRP $19.95) for each of your children when they have an eye examination with a Looking Smart Optometrist.

(Age Limit from 2 years - 12 years)

Easy parking Tests are fun for children

At Looking Smart Optometrists we recommend a vision test for every child who is 2 years of age or older.

We bulk bill all eye tests so it costs you nothing to have it done, and you can feel secure that you are looking after your child’s eyesight.

The test takes approx 15 minutes

Looking Smart Optometrists bulk bill

All eye examinations provided the patient has a Medicare or DVA card

Phone: 5439 7844

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Near Coles at Pelican Waters Shopping Centre, Pelican Waters Blvd, Pelican Waters Email: info@LSOPTOM.COM NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

25

EDUCATION

By Luke Goldston

From the moment they’re born, children absorb the world around them with everything they have. At first it’s obvious when a child is using a particular sense to learn something but as they get older the process gets more subtle. Fortunately, it’s rare to see a preschooler taste a strange object to try to understand it. By that age, their information processing is far more subtle but no less fascinating and understanding their individual strengths and preferences may help them to get the best out of their brains.

Intelligence, as traditionally measured by IQ (Intelligence Quotient), is a tricky subject. Although IQ scores can give you a general idea of a child’s capabilities, they are less adept at showing the different ways they think and learn. It takes a certain kind of brainpower to be able to read a defensive line and pass a football at just the right moment, likewise to be able to pull an engine apart and put it together again or play a piece of music after listening to it. In recent years, theories have been developed which try to make sense of the different abilities our brains have and how to best make use of them.

Learning Style Theories Modern learning style theory evolved mostly in the 80s when information from magnetic resonance imagery (MRI) showed different parts of the brain being active in different people during information processing. This, in conjunction with existing psychology theories led to the myriad of learning styles theories that are in use today.

There are currently more than 70 theories but the basic premise is the same: due to differences in our brains, we all tend to upload information in different ways.

The ‘meshing’ hypothesis then suggests that best results are obtained when the appropriate teaching style is matched to each child’s favoured learning style.

One of the styles that is often used for primary aged children in Australia is known as the VAK, or visual, auditory (listening), kinaesthetic (touching) approach. Similarly, the theory of Multiple Intelligences developed by Howard Gardner identifies eight different ‘intelligences’ including visual/spatial, verbal/linguistic, logical/mathematical, kinaesthetic/body, musical, naturalistic and inter- and intra-personal, through which the brain learns and processes.

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Online quizzes

can’t substitute for specialised testing but here are some very simple tests to give you a general idea of your preferences. www.acceleratedlearning.com/method/test_your_style www.literacyworks.org/mi/assessment/findyourstrengths

Types of learning styles Visual learners or kids with an aptitude for visualspatial intelligence are said to favour information that is presented in picture or graph form and their mental processes will often be represented by images, colours and shapes, rather than words. They are also thought to understand the big picture first before they can comprehend the details, which is why they may sometimes struggle with sequential problems like long division. Some people believe that visual learning has become much more prevalent with each successive generation through our constant exposure to television and computer images.

Although fields like art, architecture and design might draw visual learners, there’s no reason why they can’t excel in any field. In fact the majority of children are thought to have a visual preference, followed by auditory and then kinaesthetic.

Consider this quote from Albert Einstein to try to understand the mind of a visual thinker.

for the less book-inclined. A child whose eyes glaze over at a science textbook may love brewing fiendish potions and making crazy inventions from bits of scrap.

Neither Einstein nor Feynman spoke until they were three years old.

Although that’s enough to make a modern parent stress, their future Nobel prizes indicate that, rather than a lack of brain power, they could have just had an early inclination away from auditory learning.

Auditory learners tend to absorb verbal instructions much better than written ones and be able to relay their knowledge much more effectively out loud than on paper. Although their strengths may not always be apparent with written testing, auditory learners can be quick witted and silver tongued. Often good at music, they may also be adept at discerning the hidden meanings behind speech, so watch what you say! British leader Winston Churchill,

We are living in an age where different styles of learning are catered for better than ever. With computers in many classrooms and a myriad of interactive programs and materials available through the internet it’s easy to find a teaching style that suits.

Some good examples are the lessons at Khan

“The words or the language, as they are Academy (www.khanacademy.org ), which cater written or spoken, do not seem to play any role to mostly high school age, Mathletics (www. in my mechanism of thought. The ...elements mathletics.com.au ) for kindy to grade 12 and in thought are certain signs and more or Reading Eggs (www.readingeggs.com.au) for less clear images which can be ‘voluntarily’ younger kids reproduced and combined. .... This ... seems to be the essential feature in productive thought before there is any connection with ... words or other who was notoriously bad at his written studies yet kinds of signs which can be communicated to others”. is known as one of the greatest speakers of modern times, may well be their patron saint.

Fellow Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman, by contrast, was famously obsessed with tinkering with homemade radios as a child – a strong kinaesthetic trait. There’s probably more than a little kinaesthetic learner in all children. Kids love to learn by doing and getting hands-on with subjects like science can really help to bring them alive, especially

The evidence The idea that all children have different strengths and weaknesses and different ways of absorbing information appeals to us on an intuitive level. In this context, to try to pigeonhole everyone into the same www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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North Buderim Early Childhood Centre Service Manager Rhonda Braxton said children just want to have fun, but in that fun should be opportunities to learn valuable skills.

“The day at childcare should be about having fun, but while they are kicking a ball to their friend or singing a song, something happens – they learn important social and development skills,” she said.

“They may not realise it or understand it, but by the time they are ready to go to Prep, most children have develop essential social skills and other basic skills that prepare them for formal education and they have done that through playing.”

Rhonda said play fuels all aspects of healthy development. “Running, kicking and throwing balls helps children develop balance and coordination. Singing and rhyming games help with language development.

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“Puzzles and problem solving games help children’s intellectual development. And turntaking and sharing in play help develop important relationship skills and self-control.

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For more information on Churches of Christ Care contact 5476 8333 or visit www.careearlychildhood.com.au

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EDUCATION

method of acquiring knowledge and skills seems like the days when left-handers were beaten until they complied with the right handed paradigm. To many, memories of vainly trying to make sense of page after page of dryly written textbooks or recited lessons are powerful indicators of how education can often fail to engage us. And don’t we all know somebody who is a genius of a kind but failed their way through school?

In fact research certainly shows that most people have a preference for information being presented to them in a certain way. It has also been clearly shown that different people have aptitudes for different kinds of thinking and information processing.

It would seem to make sense then that having an education technique specifically tailored to our preferences would give better results. Unfortunately, this hasn’t been borne out by trials which have generally found no difference in results between a targeted learning styles approach and control groups.

Whilst practitioners have evolved many methods of classifying children into different learning styles, they have been unable to show that using a child’s preferred style will give a better result.

This isn’t to say that the meshing hypothesis has been disproved, merely that its value in giving improved education results has yet to be shown. What could explain this apparent disconnect between the research findings and the popularity of these systems? There are several possible reasons.

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Other factors Firstly, it’s important to note that learning styles are independent of learning ability. There does not appear to be any learning style that is better than another or more prevalent in gifted children. This is actually one of the aspects of the theory that is appealing to people, because it classifies us as being different to each other rather than better or worse but it also means that identifying a child’s learning style will not necessarily give you an idea of their overall capabilities.

lieve ople be Some pe l learning sua that vi e much more m o c e each has b nt with tion e l a v pre a r e ive gen success ugh our thro sure nt expo a t s n o c nd vision a s to tele e er imag comput

Also, it’s probable that most children will never fit neatly into one category or another but will be a confounding mix of variables. Some academics believe that categorising children into V, A, and K is distilling a complex process to an extent that renders it essentially useless. For instance, whilst there may be an overall preference, kids can use different strategies depending on the type of information being learnt so it may not be correct to simply call someone a ‘visual learner’ and assume that it is universally true.

Even the environment in which information is presented may affect a child’s preference. Look at these comments from children who, when given standard tests, claimed to find difficulties with auditory learning styles. When asked then about why they found information difficult to assimilate that way they said the following: Colin: Listening because people on my table talk to each other, and I can’t hear the teacher talk. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Get ready for FUN!

Complete our comprehensive Kids on the Coast reader survey and go in the draw to WIN a 3 night holiday to the Gold Coast, with 4 tickets to Dreamworld and Skypoint Tower*.

Visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au and click on the survey link on our homepage. *Full terms and conditions available on www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Affordable Pre-Prep Care At Suncoast Little Learners we: Solve puzzles and experiment Use our imaginations Paint, design and create Sing and dance Share stories and rhymes Visit the Computer Lab Borrow books from the Library And most importantly...

We explore, laugh and have fun!

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Emergency care also available

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For a prospectus or tour please call Janelle on 5451 3600 An initiative of

SUNCOAST CHRISTIAN COLLEGE www.suncoastcc.qld.edu.au

Learn how to reach for the stars Does your kid ever say…

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It‛s too hard, I‛m dumb!

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Parent/s only Single consultations also available

Curious Kids Rock!

Visit the website for programs, fees and contact details

Invest in your child’s emotional intelligence www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

29

EDUCATION

Tips for Parents June: For me it would have to be the listening because the boys, they don’t let you learn… they’re just so noisy and that’s why I don’t hear that much...

Is this a case of children who are poor auditory learners or simply an environment that isn’t conducive to auditory learning?

It may also be that, while people often have a preference for being given information in a certain way, some learning is inherently better suited to certain styles. Think about how we learn to swing a golf club. Does it make sense for an ‘auditory’ learner to attempt to learn through verbal instruction rather than a focus on demonstration (visual) and practice (kinaesthetic)?

The Bottom Line One of the key facets of learning is motivation. The value of the learning styles method may be in part due to the fact that it encourages a closer interaction between teacher and student and encourages the student to believe that they are being treated as an individual. Experienced teachers tend to understand that learning styles, while helpful, are not a magic bullet and will attempt to cater to and encourage all different types of learning.

It is certainly important to know ourselves and our strengths but we should also take care to avoid labels.

Many beliefs about the abilities and weaknesses of different learning styles should be taken with a grain of salt as the research is still in a relatively early stage.

There is nothing to say that a preference is carved in stone or that we can’t get better at non-preferred styles through patience and practice.

• Make sure young kids are exposed to different styles of learning. TV and computers can be useful educators but reading aloud every day, singing and handson learning toys like Lego, for example, are important as well.

• Being good at one style doesn’t mean a child should avoid other styles. Be flexible and ready to adapt as needed but remember the value of teaching persistence.

• An environment free from distraction that encourages natural curiosity is at least as important as the style the information is presented in.

Pre-Prep Education from 3 years - CCB approved • • • •

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P: 5442 1866 30

E: enrolments@ncc.qld.edu.au

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

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www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

33

What’s on CalendaR For more local events visit www.kidsonthecoast.com.au or for more information on council events visit www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

November 1 - 30 Each week, Monday to Saturday

Maleny Dairies Farm & Factory Tours

Where: Maleny Dairies, McCarthy’s Rd, Maleny When: 10:30am & 2:30pm This interactive tour includes hand milking demonstrations, a tour of the dairy and a baby animal farm. Bring a picnic and enjoy the countryside. Kiosk now open with coffees, milkshakes, soft serves and sundaes.

Cost: $9 per person Details: www.malenydairies.com

Every week

Storytelling

Where: Sunshine Coast Libraries When: Various times - see website for details Storytelling sessions for pre-schoolers, babies and parents occur weekly at every library across the Sunshine Coast and are free!

Cost: FREE Details: http://library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

November 13

Noosa Regional Gallery Family Day Where: Noosa Regional Gallery When: 11am to 2pm Inspired by the works on exhibition, children will explore a variety of activities for all ages.

Our gluten free sausages will be sizzling from midday!

Cost: FREE activities Details: 5449 5340. No bookings required.

November 1

Meet Max & Milly!

Where: Sunshine Plaza, Riverwalk Stage When: 9am - 12noon Meet Max & Milly from New MacDonald’s Farm plus their furry farm animal friends.

Cost: FREE Details: www.sunshineplaza.com

Movember

Where: Movember is an annual, month-long celebration of the moustache, highlighting men’s health issues, specifically prostate cancer and depression in men. Mo Bros, supported by their Mo Sistas, start Movember (November 1st) clean shaven and then have the remainder of the month to grow and groom their moustache.

How: Register on the website to start a team, join a team or Mo on your own.

Details: au.movember.com/

NOV

November 5 & December 3

Kids Club

November 10

National Funny Sunnies Day

Where: Caloundra Regional Gallery When: 10am - 12noon Free children’s art activities based on the current exhibition, held on the first Saturday of each month.

Cost: FREE Details: 07 5420 8299 or artgallery@ sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Where: Sunglasses will be available for purchase in schools, through community partners, as well as online.

‘Sunnies’ will save your sight is the message school children will be receiving on National Funny Sunnies Day. The day aims to raise awareness that excessive exposure to the sun’s ultra-violet rays can cause eye damage.

Details: www.qei.org.au

Where: Caloundra Library When: 10am

November 12, December 16 & 17

November 12

November 3

Mamma’s Market

Title: Plop!

Where: Nambour Library When: 9:30am

Where: Buderim War Memorial Hall, Cnr Main St and Gloucester Rd, Buderim When: 9am – 1pm 12th Nov; 5pm - 9pm 16th Dec; 9am – 1pm 17th Dec Find unique Christmas gifts at this high quality boutique style market that focuses on handmade, unique items and services catering for pregnancy, baby, children and family.

Cost: FREE Details: www.mammasmarket.com

Where: The Events Centre, Caloundra Specially crafted for pre-school audiences, Plop! uses rhyme, funky tunes, quirky puppetry and vibrant, furry design to explore the fear of unknown things that sometimes aren’t so scary after all.

Cost: $13.00 Members: $12.00 Groups 10+: $12.00 Education: $12.00 Details: http://scvenuesandevents.com.au

November 17

November 17

BABY Movember November 2

November 12

Steve Irwin Day Gala Dinner Where: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Plaza Terrace Room The annual Steve Irwin Day Gala Dinner celebrates the life and legacy of the original Wildlife Warrior - Steve Irwin. All proceeds from this fundraising dinner go towards Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors to keep Steve’s dream alive.

Cost: Adult from $200

November 15

Steve Irwin Day

Where: Australia Zoo, Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah When: 9am - 5pm An international and annual event to celebrate the extraordinary life of the one and only Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. The day will represent the many things Steve was passionate about; family, wildlife conservation and fun. Cost: Adult $59, Child $35 Details: www.australiazoo.com.au

November 19 The Ginger Factory’s Special Christmas Event

Where: Coolum Library When : 9:30am

November 4 Where: Maleny Library When: 9:30am

November 10 Where: Noosa Library When: 9:30am

November 14 Where: Cooroy Library When: 9:30am

November 16

Movie Night for Special Needs Kids Where: Birch Carroll and Coyle Cinema, Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore When: Times to be advised, either starting at 6:15pm or 7:15pm. Come and see an Advanced Screening of the soon to be released sequel in the “Twilight Saga” “Breaking Dawn Part1” and raise funds for the Nambour Special School at the same time. Cost: $40 Details: 0427767006 or adamsonsb@bigpond.com

Wow

Where: Kawana Family Centre, Iluka Ave, Buddina When: 9am - 12noon Kaleido-play is a play date where parents get to relax and have morning tea while the children tire themselves out with toy play, workshops and story time.

Cost: Adults $5, Kids FREE Details: www.kaleidoscopeevents.com.au

November 19

November 19

Where: Sunshine Plaza, Riverwalk Stage When: 9am Enjoy a live show to celebrate Santa’s Arrival, plus meet Kung Fu Panda 2!

Cost: FREE Details: www.sunshineplaza.com

Where: Maroochy RSL Mystery Island When: From 6pm Come to Mystery Island for a crazy night of spaceship partying with your alien buddies.

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

Santa’s Arrival

Where: The Ginger Factory When: Open daily from 9:30am to Christmas ’S Eve. Come and meet Santa amongst his ANTA G SNovember 20 little friends in Mouseville, in a walk-through COMIN N W Arrival Show Santa M RRIVE collection of fully animated Christmas Windows.

TO TO NTA A R FROM 9A E SA This year the display has a new and bigger Where: Noosa Shopping Centre, E SECivic B M E E venue so there is so much more to see! Add to Food Court 19 NOV LK STAG WA your collection with a family Photo with Santa When: 11am arrival for 11:30am start RIVER (sold separately).

Come and see the free live Santa show in the Cost: Admission $6.00 or $3.00 dollars with a Food Court. Every child gets a gift bag.

Welcome Santa with a big Christmas cheer at Sunshine Plaza.

Join in the fun at the Oliver Bear’s Christmas Show, then meet Santa, holiday ticket package Cost: FREE his favourite friends and Kung Fu Panda.

Details: www.gingerfactory.com.au Details: 5440 7900 or www.noosacivic.com.au

Kaleido Play

Space Invaders Party

November 26 November 25

White Ribbon Day White Ribbon encourages Australian men and boys to swear on White Ribbon Day. Swear an oath to stand up for the women in your life.

Details: To swear your oath, donate or buy a white ribbon visit: www.whiteribbonday.org.au

Sunny Coast Baby and Kids Market Where: Nambour PCYC, Youth Ave, Nambour When: 8am – 12noon Pre-loved handmade clothes for under-fives.

Cost: Entry $2 Details: sunnycoastbabykidsmarket@hotmail. com or phone 0410 466 402

November 27 (4th Sunday of each month)

Mini Steam Train Rides

Where: Model Railway Park, 1 Florence Street, Nambour When: 10am - 3pm Kids love riding on these mini steam trains and diesel locomotives. Bring a picnic and make a day of it.

Cost: $3 per ticket or four tickets for $10 Details: www.scrms.org.au/

Now recruiting for coaches, please call Rhys 0458 782 922

Call for your free trial now!

Approved football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years

Local classes at a venue near you Classes on Saturday mornings in Caloundra, Maleny, Buderim and Nambour and now classes on Tuesday mornings in Buderim.

Spaces are limited so call to reserve your child's place today!

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Where learning’s a ball

0458 782 922

redwards@littlekickers.com.au www.littlekickers.com.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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

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

November 27

Noosa Kids & Baby “Christmas” Market Where: Bicentennial Hall, Bicentennial Drive, Sunshine Beach, NOOSA When: 8 - 11am Find everything you need for your little one at Noosa Kids & Baby Market, for a fraction of the cost.

Cost: Gold coin donation on entry Details: www.noosakidsmarket.com.au ; Natalie 0402 432 743

Where: Cotton Tree Park When: 5:30 - 8:30pm The evening will feature children’s entertainment, carols, a feature artist and of course an appearance by our favourite man in red! A fireworks extravaganza will finish the evening at approximately 8:30pm. Bring a picnic and blanket (no alcohol or glass) or grab a bite to eat from one of the food and drink stalls. Cost: FREE Details: http://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Robert’s 8th Birthday Where: Australia Zoo, Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah When: 9am - 5pm Crikey! Our very own fossil fanatic Robert Irwin is turning 8 on December 1 and get a load of this, all kids are FREE!!* There will be stacks of awesome prehistoric activities as well as prizes and giveaways.

Cost: Adult $59, Kids FREE Contact: For more information go to www. australiazoo.com.au

December 9

December 3

Carols at Cotton Tree

December 1

December 6

Mrs Claus Storytelling Where: Sunshine Plaza When: 9am, 10am and 11am Come and enjoy story time with Mrs Claus and meet her Reindeer friend.

Cost: FREE Details: www.sunshineplaza.com

Summer Reading Club

Where: Sunshine Coast Libraries and online When: Starts December 9 Join The Amazing Read, around Australia, and discover many great spots to take your book… from the beach to the bush, on a road trip or at the bus stop. Where is your favourite place to read? Cost : FREE Contact details: http://library.sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au

December 10

Arty Pants Kids Festival Where: The Events Centre, Caloundra When: 10am to 4pm Engage with your children one on one in the discovery and exploration of the creative, performing and visual arts. Featuring a variety of interactive workshops, activities & performances by Fireman Sam and Angelina Ballerina. Cost: $10.00 per child.

Accompanying parents FREE. Details: http://www.artypantsfestival.com.au

December 10 to 24

December 14 & December 16

Where: Noosa Civic Shopping Centre, Food Court When: 10am - 4pm daily Every child will receive one FREE SandWizard activity each per day.

Details: 5440 7900 or www.noosacivic.com.au

Where: Caloundra Regional Gallery When: 11am – 12noon (ages five to eight years); 12:30pm – 2pm (ages nine to 12 years) Cost: $15.00 per workshop, materials included.

Details: Bookings essential, phone 5420 8299 or email artgallery@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.

SandWizard comes to Noosa Civic

December 14

Zookeepers Christmas Special

Where: Maroochy RSL When: From 8:00pm Come and celebrate a free family night of Christmas festivities in The Avenue with the Zookeepers Kids dress-up dance party with live music, prizes and party games. Cost: FREE. Details: www.maroochyrsl.com.au

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Artscool: School Holiday Workshop Program

December 17

Mystery IslandChristmas Party Where: Maroochy RSL Mystery Island When: From 6:00pm Join us for Mystery Island’s exclusive kids only Christmas Party!

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

December 25 Christmas Day December 18

Carols on Kings

Where: Kings Beach Amphitheatre, De Vene Ave, Kings Beach When: 5:30pm - 9:30pm Great Entertainment and Santa will be there to help you sing along to all your favourite carols and a fireworks extravaganza will finish the evening at approximately 8:30pm. Bring a picnic and blanket (no alcohol or glass) or grab a bite to eat from one of the food and drink stalls.

Cost: FREE Details: 5475 7272 or http://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

December 26 Christmas December 21 & 22 Day Holiday Christmas School Holiday Season Workshops

Where: Noosa Regional Gallery When: Session times 10:30am to 12noon & 1:30pm to 3pm.

Taking a tour of the Robert Baines exhibition, children will be inspired by all things small, precious, quirky and structural. Workshops are suitable for four to seven years & eight to 12 years Cost: $15 each, all materials included Details: Bookings and pre-payment essential.

Please phone the Gallery: 5449 5340

December 31 to January 1

New Year’s Eve Mooloolaba 2011

Where: Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba When: 4pm - Midnight A free family-friendly, drug, alcohol and glassfree event packed full of live entertainment, fun activities for the family and two spectacular fireworks displays.

Cost: FREE Details: 5475 7272 or http://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Find more @ www.kidso

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BABIES on the coast

Protection A how-to guide to protecting your baby or toddler from the harsh Queensland sun this summer For the past 50 years, Cancer Council Queensland has been working hard to educate Queenslanders about how to protect themselves and their families from damaging sun exposure. Coming into the 2011 / 2012 summer, the Cancer Council’s 1980s jingle, ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ is still a great guide for protecting those you love from a future of skin cancer.

SunSmart Co-ordinator at Cancer Council Queensland and mother of one, Rachel Adams, tells Kids on the Coast readers how to do just that.

“At Cancer Council Queensland we recommend that all babies under 12 months of age are not exposed to direct sun whenever the UV Index reaches 3 or above,” she says.

“In Queensland, the UV Index can easily reach 3 or above on winter days and summer UV levels can regularly hit the extreme levels of 13 and above.

“So really, the message is that although babies can spend a small amount of time in the sun if UV levels are below 3, your baby’s skin is thin and extremely sensitive which means that it can burn really easily and quickly. Even when the UV levels are below 3, do not expose your baby to the sun for long periods of time”.

Research shows that the more sun exposure a person has during childhood, the greater their risk of developing skin cancer later in life.

You can check the SunSmart UV Alert in the weather section of the daily newspaper or at www.bom.gov. au/ to find out the UV level and the times of the day that sun protection is needed.

“Sun protection is required when the UV is 3 and above and the middle of the day is a good time to avoid the sun, as this is when UV levels are at their most intense,” Ms Adams said.

Whenever the UV Index reaches 3 or above, Cancer Council Queensland recommends using a combination of five sun protection measures:

1. Slip on sun-protective clothing “Always aim to cover as much of your baby’s skin as

36

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

possible with cool, loose-fitting clothes and wraps,” Ms Adams advises.

“The higher the UV protection factor (UPF) the greater the protection provided by the fabric, so wherever possible choose fabrics that are at least UPF15 which provides good protection, but preferably UPF50, which provides excellent protection.

“If you choose clothing that doesn’t have a UPF label, then choose fabrics that contain full percentages and/ or blends of heavyweight natural fibres like cotton, linen and hemp, or lightweight synthetics such as polyester, nylon, lycra and polypropylene.

“The tighter the fabric structure of the clothing, whether knitted or woven, the better the sun protection.”

2. Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen

S u n scr e e n t i ps : • Test the sunscreen on a small area of the baby or toddler’s skin to check for any skin reactions.

• Use an SPF30+ broad spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen.

• Apply the sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours (even if the stated water resistance is longer than two hours).

• Only use sunscreen with other forms of sun protection, like a hat, seeking shade and wearing protective clothing. Sunscreen should never be used to extend time spent in the sun. Sunscreen should never be your only or last line of defence in the sun.

“We all know that sunscreen filters the UV radiation, but it does not completely block it out, so it’s important to firstly avoid direct sunlight where possible,” Ms Adams said.

“If you can’t avoid being in the sun, then always apply sunscreen to those small areas of your baby’s body that are not covered by their hat and clothing.”

The Australasian College of Dermatologists recommends the use of sunscreen ‘at any age when there is unavoidable exposure to the sun’ and states that sunscreen is safe to use on babies.

“Many brands, including the Cancer Council’s sunscreen have a gentler babies or toddlers formula, so these can be great options for your baby,” Ms Adams explains.

“Sunscreens with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide reflect UV radiation away from the skin and are less likely to cause problems with sensitive skin.”

3. Slap on a hat

“Hats are an excellent way to protect your baby’s face, back of the neck, eyes and ears from the sun as they provide great shade,” Ms Adams says.

“Make sure your baby has a hat with a wide brim which shades their eyes because this alone can reduce the UV radiation their eyes are expose to by 50 per cent.”

Courtesy of kooringalhats.com.au www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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Be

A gr

BABIES on the coast

Courtesy of kooringalhats.com.au

Bas e b a l l caps d o n o t o ff e r a d e q u a t e s u n pr o t e c t i o n f o r t h e c h e e ks , e ars a n d n e ck a n d ar e t h e r e f o r e not recommended for anyone.

T i ps to help choose a s u i ta b l e

h at

• Soft legionnaire-style hats with a flap at the back to protect the neck are great options, the flap and front peak should overlap.

• Bucket hats are also good options; look for a style with a deep crown and angled brim that sit easily on the baby’s head.

• Broad-brimmed hats provide excellent protection from the sun. For babies, choose a fabric that will crumple easily when they put their head down, so they can wear their hat the whole time they are outside.

4. Seek shade “Shade is a great option for protection from the sun, if you are outdoors, always keep your baby in the shade,” Ms Adams said.

“UV radiation can reflect from surfaces such as sand and concrete onto your baby even in the shade, so remember to combine your sun protective measures and make sure they wear a hat, protective clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses.

“When travelling, use a shade visor or hang a blanket over the side windows of the car because the side and back windows of a car don’t offer as much sun protection as the front windscreen.

“Shade should also be considered when you are buying a pram or stroller, check that the hood can be adjusted, so that it can be moved to block out the direct sun.

• Meet the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1067:2003 (Sunglasses and fashion spectacles: sunglasses category 2, 3 or 4).

• Are preferably marked eye protection factor (EPF) 106.

• Have soft elastic to keep them in place.

5. Slide on sunglasses

Toy or fashion-labelled sunglasses do not meet the requirements for sunglasses under the Australian Standard and should not be used for sun protection.

You can check the category for protection on the tag when you purchase them.

Role modelling

“When you are choosing a hat, consider its size and comfort, the amount of shade it provides to the face and neck and if it will obstruct your baby’s vision or hearing,” she said.

“Research shows that if adults adopt sun protection behaviours, then the children in their care are more likely to do the same, so it’s a case of showing your baby from a young age how to be SunSmart.”

“The fabric section of the pram hood should block close to 100% of UV radiation (UPF50+) and the mesh section should block at least 70% of UV radiation (UPF3.3).”

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

• Are a close fitting, wrap-around style that cover as much of the eye area as possible.

“For the best protection, pram shade covers should completely cover the pram and be made of densely woven fabric which combines a mesh section, so your baby is protected but can also see and air can circulate.

“You may find that at first your baby or toddler doesn’t like to wear their hat but persistence in this matter is really important to teach them that a hat is part of their normal outside routine.”

38

T o pr o t e c t y o u r baby’s baby blues, l o o k f o r s u n g l ass e s t h at :

“Children often copy the behaviour of those around them and learn by imitation,” advises Ms Adams.

Nappy rash

“There is an old wives tale that recommends exposing nappy rash to direct sun, this is very dangerous and will only do further damage to the skin, rather than healing it.

“For skin affected by nappy rash, standard recommendations include frequent nappy changing, applying barrier creams to the affected areas and www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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“We change how we feel about our lives by understanding and changing our approach to the various things that aren’t working for us. I teach people dayto-day skills to help with that,” says Pettina Stanghon, behavioural practitioner, psychotherapist and mother of two, who has been helping people Sunshine Coast for over 6 years.

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The Integrated Life Centre offers a variety of services such as: • Easy-to-access counselling through Skype packages and online support • Residential retreats or one-on-one counselling, initially in your home if preferred, for post-natal problems • Working with whole families to address behaviours and develop better relationships • The new “mind maintenance for mums” programs which can be either one on one or an evening or weekend group (including 45 minutes of heart focus meditation) UPCOMING WORKSHOPS! MIND MAINTENANCE FOR MUMS starts TUESDAY 18TH OCT 9.30AM, BOOK NOW FOR XMAS HOLIDAY PROGRAMS including MIND MAINTENANCE FOR KIDS and TEENS with art and drama therapies for esteem building and heart centred meditation. FIND US ON FACEBOOK

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39

BABIES on the coast exposing the inflamed area to the open air as much as possible,” Ms Adams said.

Jaundice

“Neonatal jaundice generally only causes concerns in about 10% of babies and should always be treated under medical supervision in a controlled environment,” she said.

“Exposing your baby to direct sun is not a recommended way to treat neonatal jaundice.”

Vitamin D

“Because Queensland experiences high UV levels all year round, most people are able to maintain adequate vitamin D levels through day-to-day incidental sun exposure.

“If you are concerned about your baby’s vitamin D levels, consult your GP or health professional for advice. Deliberately exposing your baby to the sun is not a safe way to increase their vitamin D.” Please contact the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20 between 8am – 6pm Monday to Friday for more information, advice, support or resources about any type of cancer.

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Five reasons your child could benefit from a chiropractic check-up Early Detection Spinal problems can start earlier than you might think – much earlier. The birthing process puts an enormous amount of extra pressure on the spine. And, if you’ve ever watched a toddler struggling to master the art of walking, you know that learning to walk is marked by constant stumbles.

Perfect posture Perfect posture, or how we hold ourselves, is very important for our health, but our kids’ posture has never before been under the strain it is today, says Chiropractor Dr David Hendrey. “Handheld games and mobile phones, sitting slumped over these devices for hours on end is taking its toll; when we’re distracted by the game, we shut out distractions including our posture,” he says.

Sports-Injury Solution Is your child an aspiring ballerina, or a rugby league star in training? If your child loves the sporting arena, then chiropractic care can help to keep sports-related strains and sprains to a minimum, or get your child back on the field faster after injury.

Scoliosis Screening Scoliosis – a lateral curvature of the spine – is clinically significant in 5% of youngsters. Having a comprehensive evaluation with a Chiropractor provides a thorough assessment of a youngster’s current spinal health and risk of future postural disorders. Dr Hendrey is trained specifically to detect Scoliosis at a very early age, obviously the earlier the better.

Promote a Wellness Orientated lifestyle What kind of wellness role model are you? Chiropractic is based on being well and staying well, and encourages patients to an ideal introduction to the prevention-oriented approach to wellness. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Revolutionary fees At Hendrey Chiropractic we believe that great quality health care should be available to all people. That’s why our fees are radically different.

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41

ONLY NATURAL

Christmas gifts made with love by Kim Lahey The need to make, to hand-craft, is innate. And Christmas with kids is the perfect reason to re-charge or discover our crafty talents. There’s so much fun to be had, creating together. Especially a gift, knowing all-the-while love and thought are the key ingredient!

Bright bubbles

Ever- popular pantry pieces The pantry is the starting-block for a plethora of handmade gifts. Baked goodies like rocky road, melting moments and fudge are perennial favourites. Coast mum Jen says baked treats are impossible to passup as gifts, especially when they are ‘wrapped’ with love. “I enlist my kids to hand-paint jars which we fill with fudge or rocky road,” she says. The rocky road is simple to make, with good quality chocolate the vital ingredient, Jen says.

But there’s more than just edible goodies to create in the kitchen…

Mother-of-four Yvonne runs a soap making business, and says her kids love making melt-and-pour soap.

“It’s a quick and easy gift everyone loves, and soap mould themes can be adapted to any occasion,” she says.

- “Some fragrances and essential oils are much stronger than others, so it is a little trial-and-error here to achieve the strength you like and is very much personal preference,” she says.

What you need:

- Stir well and pour directly into the mould

A microwave-safe jug or double-boiler to melt the soap-base, a stirring spoon (stainless-steel is best) or silicone spatula, a sharp knife to cube the soap base, and various-shaped moulds - clean and ready.

- Spray immediately with Isopropyl alcohol – this removes bubbles on top of the soap which ruin its look.

Ingredients: 1kg of melt and pour soap base (glycerine white, clear or goats milk), 100ml soapmaking fragrance oil or 50ml essential oil, 1 x Winton gel colour (or a few different colours) or liquid colour and 100ml Isopropyl alcohol spray (removes bubbles from top of soap).

Steps: - Weigh the soap base (the total gram-weight of all moulds you want to use) with a digital scale.

- Cut the soap base into 1 inch cubes (for easymelting) and melt it. “The idea is to melt it gradually, stirring while melting, not letting it bubble and boil,” Yvonne says, because overheating the base will make the soap dry and low-in-lather. So for a microwave-melt, set at 30-second intervals. For a double-boiler melt, stir regularly to monitor it.

- Once the base is liquefied and lump-free, allow to cool a few minutes. When a skin has formed on top, the base is ready for colour and fragrance. Remove the skin and stir it back into mixture.

- Add a tiny amount of colour gel or liquid colour (a drop at a time) until you have the desired shade. Soft-pastel colours are best; bold colours are too aggressive and tend to rub off on skin, Yvonne explains. “… little is more and you’ll make hundreds of beautiful pastel shades very easily by combining different colours together,” she says.

- Weigh the fragrance or essential oil before adding.

A fragrance oil will require up to 10 percent of the soap-base weight and an essential oil up to three

42

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

percent of the soap-base weight. Too much oil will stop the soap setting, Yvonne explains.

- Let the soaps air-dry. When they’re cold, tip the mould over and press lightly on the back to remove the soap. If they don’t come out, place into the freezer just for a few minutes (no more than five), this shrinks the soap slightly so they pop straight out.

- Your soaps are ready. It’s best to keep them sealed in a container until use (particularly the glycerinebased soaps), or gift-wrap them in cellophane as soon as they’re made, Yvonne explains.

Cool comfort-bags Coast mum Clare says little heat wheat-bags and cooling rice-bags are magic ‘medicine’ for all ages, and have proved popular at fetes and for gifts.

Fill fabric bags - in a range of sizes – with organic wheat (for heat bags) or organic rice (for freezer ‘bump’ packs). “They are quick, easy and the kids can sew up a little bit if they like – and choose their own fabrics,” Clare says.

The wheat bags work wonders for a ‘sore tummy’ or as neck and shoulder therapy. The rice packs are perfect for putting on the forehead during a lie down, but they are also great little distractions (especially in fairy or fire engine fabric) for the myriad of little bumps kids get, Clare says. “Seems they forget about it pretty quickly when they use one of these!” The rice bags have also been popular for taking to bed on a hot summer night. “Whatever works!” Clare says.

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ONLY NATURAL

INSTRUCTIONS: Rice/cold pack instructions: Use as a cold pack to treat minor bites, bumps and headaches.

- Store your rice pack in the freezer, in a sealed plastic bag to prevent it from absorbing strange freezer odours, until ready to use.

- When ready to use, remove from the bag and place on your forehead (for headaches), bump, or other wound to reduce swelling.

- Outer cover can be removed and washed.

- Unpick and refill the bag with uncooked rice if the inner rice bag gets wet or soiled.

Wheat/heat bag instructions: Use wheat bags only as a heat pack for direct application to the body. Never use them as bed warmers as this is a fire risk.

- Heat in microwave on high setting for a maximum of 1 minute 45 seconds.

- Do not overheat wheat bag – check the temperature diligently.

- Do not reheat until the wheat bag has completely cooled.

- Unpick and refill the bag if the wheat starts to smell toasty.

- Do not put wheat bags into storage until they are completely cold.

What you need: Fabric – any type of natural fabric is fine. The best for wheat bags is a thicker fabric like corduroy, for the rice packs a thinner cotton fabric works best.

• Organic wheat and rice kernels • Funnel to fill the bags • Overlocker/Sewing machine

Steps: - Cut fabric to size, allowing for an outer and inner cover. Wheat bags can be any size you like – Clare says a little ‘sore tummy’ size is about 15cm x 25cm, the other popular size is a longer one that drapes around the neck and shoulders, which is about 50cm by 20cm. Rice packs are usually small, around a 12cm square size, but a ‘headache’ one could be about 20cm x 10cm.

- Stitch the fabric - Fill the inner cover with wheat or rice using a funnel - Finish the covers with overlocker or sewing machine (or with ‘little helpers’ stitching) - Wrap/attach instructions (see above)

44

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Recycled fun Reverse Garbage, a not-for-profit co-operative that diverts high-quality industrial discards away from landfill by collecting it and selling it at a low cost to the public, runs workshops for kids to create gifts from recycled material. Reverse Garbage public relations co-coordinator Rozina Suliman, says one popular project for kids aged eight-plus is a Yellow Holey Strip Bag.

Plants pots and promises Looking for more ideas? Create potted plants with hand-made gift tags - herbs are a perfect because they grow so well – and decorate the pots with paper and ribbon. Model clay photo frames or clay pots – they can be fired or left unfired then painted. Or make kindness official with a booklet of tickets offering to do chores.

What you need: 2 x cork rings (or other rings approx 10cm diameter), lots of skinny fabric strips - stretchy fabric is great!, 1 x big rectangle holey strip (in yellow or black approx 40cm x 20cm) and 1 x skinny rectangle holey strip (in yellow or black approx 34 x 10cm).

The yellow holey strips are a Reverse Garbage product but, they do have mail orders even for small items (holey strips are about $1.50 for a bundle of ten). But any thin plastic could be used - a thin plastic and a hole puncher could be a good alternative! Rozina says.

“Perhaps even a couple of ice-cream containers, but they would need to be cut into flat pieces and have holes punched in them. Or a broken laundry basket... these have holes in them already and enough space to wind fabric...” she says.

Steps - Collect recycled materials - Cut skinny rectangle holey strip in half (so you have two strips 17 x 10cm) - Curve big rectangle holey strip and position skinny strip on the side with a slight overhang - Tie fabric strips together till you have a really long piece - Weave fabric through the holes of each of the two pieces to join together and continue until one side is joined - Repeat for second side - Cut off overhang to give a nice rounded edge on the bottom of the bag - Position rings - Weave fabric through the top of the holey strip and the ring to join them - Decorate with additional fabric or you can glue pretty things on

For more information Simply Natural Soap Making Supplies website provides loads of recipes and further instructions on how to make soap, as well as lists of useful books about soap and candle-making. Visit www.

SimplyNaturalSoapMakingSupplies.com.au Reverse Garbage Brisbane (20 Burke St, Woolloongabba) sell high-quality industrial discards and run a variety of environment and waste focused art workshops and educational talks and tours. Visit www.reversegarbage.com.au Visit your local library for books covering just about every craft project you can imagine! www.library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

Merry Christmas Dr Scotty!...

Bed Wetting Learning Difficulties Ear Infections Irritable Babies Feeding/ Sleeping/ Dressing/ Bathing difficulties Flat Head

get your family in top shape before the festive season!

Come & find out why so many parents are so grateful to have such settled babies after seeing Dr Scott!

Dr Scott treats babies from as young as 1 day old, and children of all ages. Very gentle techniques are used and the treatment is extremely safe.

Constipation Headaches Reflux Colic

Pregnant?

Dr D’Arcy Brown has been part of the practice now for 12 mon ths treating adults, babies and children and has very similar techniques to Scott. He has a special interest treating pregnant mothers for back pain & sciatica and for those who are carrying a posterio r or breech baby.

CALOUNDRA Shop 11 Centrepoint Plaza, 50 Bulcock St, Caloundra KULUIN (Maroochydore) Shop 3, 2-4 Melaleuca Street, Kuluin

5491 7743 Preferred providers with Medibank Private and MBF

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

45

It’s All About

Feeling tired, stressed &

“Think positively”

- you get what you expect. Smile whenever possible – it’s an inexpensive way of improving your looks and how you feel. Try and find something positive to say about a situation, particularly if you are going to find fault. You can visualise situations you have Feeling tired, stressed and overworked? Did you know that taking 30 handled well and hold those memories in your mind mins a week to pamper yourself will make you a better parent? Research has shown that when going into stressful situations.” Source: Black Dog Institute getting a pedicure, massage or facial significantly decreases stress hormones, enough to make a difference to your personality. No more excuses: book into your favourite treatment this week. Don’t have the time or a babysitter available; why not try a trigger point massage ball. These very clever little balls can release the tension from Create a special spot your muscles while you lay on them on on the kitchen counter where everyone can put half-filled coffee mugs the floor – try it for 10 mins a few times that need to be reheated, water glasses to be used again later, or sippy a week and see how much difference cups that can be refilled. At the end of the day, put everything that’s you can feel in your body and mind. still out into the dishwasher. It cuts down on kitchen clutter, and it also Try a physiotoolkit ball (ph 0419 004 reduces the common question “Are you done with that cup yet?”.

020) for a specifically designed ball with instructions ($13) or from your local physiotherapist..

overworked?

“In Use” Cups creating more washing and clutter than needed?

Want to save

30mins

63% of us

will choose a beauty product because it is on special. 44% will choose a beauty product because of a trusted recommendation. And strangely, we are nearly 40% more likely to choose a beauty product with colourful packaging in the summer! (Source: onepoll.com)

or more at dinner time

Whenever you prepare a meal that can be frozen, double up the ingredients and freeze it for another night. Just think how nice it will be to know that dinner can be just a few button pushes away when you really need it!

Can’t find the time to get enough planned and incidental exercise – why not tie in a little exercise with some fun time with your kids.

46

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Check out your local walking tracks and start exploring the great outdoors, with walks from 10 minutes to a few hours all over the Coast. There are many added bonuses; you are setting a great example for your kids, doing a fun activity as a family and spending time out in our environment actually makes you feel better about yourself. If you don’t know where to walk, the local council has walks listed on their website (www. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au – search walks).

When

did you last test

your eyes ????

When did you last test your eyes? If it was more than two years ago, it is time to make an appointment with your optometrist. “Everyone should get their eyes tested every two years, even for people who don’t have any problems,” say Shirley Loh from the Optometrists Association Australia. Don’t forget that eye examinations attract a Medicare rebate and usually only take around 30 minutes. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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of Beauty Experience the highest standard of Beauty Treatments in a spacious salon, with an Award winning beauty therapist.

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A Spiritual Retreat… for an hour or for the weekend Enjoy a retreat weekend of hope, healing and meaning in beautiful Maleny. Take time out in spacious, well-appointed accommodation surrounded by exceptional natural beauty. A variety of styles and purposes for retreats are offered to meet your needs. A holistic approach is taken integrating body, soul, mind and spirit. Spirituality is Christian and personal safety, privacy and confidentiality are maintained at all times If you have not got time to get away for the weekend, Cloverdale Therapeutic Services offer counselling for children, singles, couples and families with a strength-based multimodal, holistic and psychotherapeutic approach. Areas of expertise include relationships, personal development, grief, abuse and mental health and the cost is affordable. Contact Elizabeth 0412 612 672 or visit www.cloverdale.net.au for more information.

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Inspired and affordable Are you tired of seeing cheap photo shoots advertised, only to find out that you will get stung with the cost of prints after the shoot? We are too.

Importantly, she has perfectionism down to an art form. The photo shoot will flash past in a flurry of fun while she puts into play her “forget the camera is even there” tactics. Especially helpful for those little ones that are not sure about that Michelle from Inspired Photography is an award winning photographer specialising big black flashing thing being pointed at them. And with Christmas coming, what in bellies, babies and families. And she is affordable – it is not often you see better grandparent gift idea than a beautiful portrait of your family. award winning and affordable in the same paragraph!

If you want stunning images at a reasonable price call or email Michelle. Her The Sunshine Coast Mum of two children, Lily 8 & Luca 1, has a goal. Making website includes the price list as well as some of her amazing work. www. beautiful photography affordable! Her most popular Portrait Package (including inspiredphotography.com.au Michelle is constantly running competitions shoot, prints and disc) is only $350. She also does weddings at extremely and giveaways with fully inclusive photography packages up for grabs, so reasonable prices and what you get for your money will have you double glancing make sure you “Like” her Facebook page! “Like” the page at facebook.com/ inspiredphotographybymichelle . Or call on 0405 406 887 at the price list.

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

47

Are your kids driving you bonkers? Sick of scouring books and websites for answers? Well Hot91.1 is here to help.

Send us your kiddie conundrums and our very own Todd & Sami along with Jan from Settle Petal could be coming to your rescue.

Find out more about Settle Petal at www.settlepetal.com.

If you’ve got a parenting question you’d like answereed email it now to breakfast@hot91.com.au

THIS MONTHS QUESTION… Brotherly love - I have a 2 year old and a 3 1/2 year old. They adore each other but it always ends in tears with one getting too rough and hurting the other. They’re taking wrestling to another dimension. Don’t tell me this is just “boys” or it’s the looney bin for this mu m. How do I manage this?

SAMI Oh dear. Oh my hat! Indeed! My only advice is to have more boys as quickly as possible in the hope they will form a basketball team or some other form of sport that does not involve two little people beating the stuffing out of each other. I just do not get the wrestling thing or the boxing thing. I know, I know, it is genetically embedded in little boys to kick and punch and pull hair. That is why they terrify me. Why can’t little boys want to play tea parties in magic glittery fairy land? It is such a better world than when WWF slams into your kitchen at night when the litter hyperactive aggressive tiny tots start, well, being little boys.

I did attempt in a lame way to get some good advice from a dear friend who has four boys. Jo, super mum to an awesome foursome tribe, said something about offering a “free punch” if one boy plays unfairly because the little Rocky Balboas are usually so excited about the free punch the tears cease immediately and most times, because everyone calms down and ends up laughing at the situation.

I kind of vagued out because I understand ‘Free Tibet’ and I understand Myer’s awesome deal at the Clinique counter when you get a free gift if you spend over a certain amount, but I do not understand the concept of a ‘Free Punch’. .And I know what you are thinking. This naive and quite stupid radio jock has no idea of parenting boys and I deserve to have at least one of them myself to take that smug look off my face. Lord help me if that happens! My husband would be over the moon.

But what he does not know is that we will be calling our son ‘Charlie’ or some other name that you could call a little girl, and we will be dressing him in pink and painting his toe nails!

TODD Sorry to say it but in the words of 1980’s Aussie rockers The Choirboys, “Boys will be boys...you know they don’t have a choice, boys will be boys!”

This was the lesser known of their

48

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

two hits admittedly, the other being the Top 10 winner “Run to Paradise”, but nonetheless it speaks volumes when trying to explain us lads. The ability, nay the right, to wrestle, fight, chinese burn and curry-cup one another had been in man’s blood for centuries. Sure at a young age 7 out of ten times it ends in tears, but that’s usually forgotten with a glass of cold, cold milk and a Nutella sambo and it’s back to being best mates again. You see, we’re like wolves and the wrestling is simply a way to determine the alpha male in the wolf pack. Once that’s been established the lads then wrestle and fight for fun.

You should be thankful that you’ve got boys going at it Smackdown style in the lounge room, launching at each other with the “people’s elbow” and dishing out “ two for flinching” then getting on with the day as opposed to girls who tend to hurt or upset each other, yank each others hair and then the witchy little cat fight goes on for days. My best advice is to accept the lads right of passage, just remember there’s certain things in life we’ll never change, waters wet, the sky’s blue, Nicole Kidman hasn’t made a decent movie since “Days of Thunder” and boys love to wrestle! PS maybe encourage the boys into safer wrestling by building the Ultimate Smackdown Arena out of pillows, doona covers, inflatable mattresses and Dad.

JAN - From Settle Petal Having had four boys myself, I have to say; you will need to find a way to manage this physical behaviour because boys as a rule always find opportunities to touch and tackle each other. It doesn’t stop when they get older either - you just have to find a more spacious kitchen or bigger lounge room! My boys are in their late teens and early twenties and continue to enjoy the chase and challenge of wrestling. Knowing I had to write this piece, I asked my 22 year old why he had my 17 year old down on the kitchen floor in a head lock – he said “because it’s fun”! Research shows the hormone testosterone has a lot to do with brain functioning making boys more aggressive, concerned with rank, competitive and in need of strong guidelines. There are specific times in a boys life that he will go through the effects of testosterone surges but I won’t concern you with that here! Now that you know wrestling is inevitable, teach your boys to tackle low and wrestle with rules for their safety, at acceptable times and in appropriate places.

During the early years, wrestling, together with parental guidance teaches boys their first lessons the value of closeness, kindness, fun and trust. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR THE YEAR AHEAD Building Resiliency Workshops

10 week workshops on the Sunshine Coast

Children 4-7 years, and 7-12 years

Christmas Holiday Intensive program Contact Donna for details

Children: • Learn how to be brave and use assertive communication skills • Develop an understanding of their own and others feelings • Learn how to recognise and self-regulate feelings • Learn strategies to change unhelpful thinking into more helpful thinking • Become aware of their self talk and that they can control what they are thinking • Recognise that our thinking affects the way we feel and the way we behave • Develop empathy skills and ways to use strengths to help others • Learn how to achieve goals or overcome fears • Develop ways to reward themselves for doing their best and having a go • Look for role models and support networks • Explore friendships- what makes a good friend and how to be a good friend

Groups at Maroochydore & Peregian BOOK NOW for Term 1 2012

For more information or to book your child’s place, call Donna Farman Mobile: O414 674 674

Groups are run by registered teachers and facilitators of the Fun Friends and Friends for Life Programs. These programs are authored by Brisbane psychologist Dr Paula Barrett (www.pathwayshrc.com.au) and have been recognised by the World Health Organisation. Research has shown the positive effects of the strategies and skills taught in the program in the prevention of anxiety/depression as well as for general well being and ability to cope with life for all children.

Call Donna 0414 674 674

2 Parent Information sessions included

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Pre and Post Natal Pilates • Qualified womens’ health physiotherapist that specialises in pelvic floor issues • Improve abdominal and pelvic floor control • Assist in healthy pregnancy, labour and recovery • Prevent back problems from increasing demands • Maintain overall strength and stability • Get back to regular weight afterwards • Mat & equipment pilates • Pregnancy massages • Kids play area • Claimable on most health funds

io Intouch Phys also offer ge Baby Massa Courses

Call 5442 2255 for class times and to book

ALSO at Cooroy

Cnr Nambour Connection Rd & Blackall St, Woombye Ph: 5442 2255 E: admin@intouchphysiotherapy.com.au

www.intouchphysiotherapy.com.au

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Quality and understanding family lawyers Garland Waddington Solicitors are experienced in all aspects of family law. They understand that a change in any family’s circumstances can be an emotionally draining, confusing and traumatic time for people. The firm strives to minimise hostility and financial burden by helping their clients reach an amicable agreement with their former partner as quickly as possible, whether it be in relation to parenting issues, property settlement or both.

Garland Waddington focuses on each client’s specific needs to provide high quality family and relationship law advice, in a manner which is sensitive, realistic, timely and cost effective.

Please contact Candice Rosborough, our family law solicitor, for your initial 30 minute FREE consultation. Phone 5443 4866 or email crosborough@gwlaw.com.au.

They take special care to ensure that the best interests of the children are always put first.

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Cnr The Esplanade & Second Ave, Maroochydore 4558 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

49

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Restoring your confidence with bladder control Dr Petra Ladwig from Suncoast Women’s Centre understands the problems most women face after giving birth. One of the most embarrassing side effects is often incontinence which can occur due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.

A lot of women simply put up with this as the natural course of being a woman after child birth but this need not be the case. If addressed early these problems can be managed, improved and even cured by something as simple and painless as sitting in a chair, fully clothed for 20 minutes!

The pelvic floor controls your urinary, bowel and sexual functions yet these muscles are your most neglected. The new ‘Wave Brilliance’ Magnetic Pelvic Floor Stimulation chair (magnetic chair) uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve impulses which rapidly flex and tighten your pelvic floor muscles. This is the equivalent of approximately 200 pelvic floor contractions every minute at 20 times greater the intensity than the patient can do themselves! It is the ideal way to kick start or regenerate the pelvic floor and surrounding muscles to restore strength, endurance and continence.

Treatments are tailored to individual patients but a typical therapy program consists of two 20 minute treatments per week for eight weeks. Of course children are most welcome to attend with you and can simply sit and play whilst you undergo your treatment. For more information about the new Wave Brilliance magnetic chair treatment phone the Suncoast Women’s Centre on 5437 7244 or visit Suite 5, 5 Innovation Parkway, Birtinya (Kawana). Medicare rebates available.

        

                                               

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  

health

good

By Dr David McIntosh, Paediatric ENT Surgeon

Common Ear, Nose and Throat Issues – Part 1 Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) problems are amongst the most common source of reversible causes of health problems that can affect a child’s development and learning. The following is part 1 of an overview of the more common ENT problems that children are confronted by. Part 2 will be discussed in January/ February edition of Kids on the Coast.

Ear infections and glue ear Repeated ear infections can result in fluid build-up behind the ear drum (glue ear) that can block sound getting in and, therefore, affect a child’s hearing.

The infections, themselves, can also damage the ear drum and hearing. It is not uncommon for children with ear problems to also have speech problems.

Fortunately, in most cases these problems sort themselves out within 3 months, but if not, an ENT specialist opinion early on is best.

Auditory processing disorder (APD) A lot of parents get caught out by relying on simple hearing tests as a means of ensuring their child’s hearing is OK. APD is a condition where a child has normal hearing but has trouble understanding what is being said. These children often get labelled as “inattentive” or “easily distracted”. A special test called a “CAP test” (by Attune Audiology) will be helpful in diagnosing this condition.

Tonsillitis Repeated bouts of tonsillitis needing antibiotics is one of the most common causes of recurrent infection and often results in significant school absence. Each ENT specialist is different in terms of when they consider too much tonsillitis as being significant enough to warrant surgery, but a rule of thumb is 6 episodes in 1 year, 8 episodes in 2 years, or 9 episodes in 3 years. The severity of the infection also needs to be considered, as does the year of school the child is in, with year 11 and 12 being the most important years with respect to a child’s transition into early adulthood and career plans.

There is one type of tonsillitis that can come from nowhere and cause ongoing problems, which is glandular fever. This is a viral infection that can be quite significant in terms of its effect on a child, both at the time of infection, and subsequently. Sometimes the tonsils will enlarge and never go down, causing problems with breathing and eating. Treatments will be discussed in the next edition of Kids on the Coast.

Surgical treatment Ear problems may require grommets. These are little plastic tubes with a hole in the middle. There are several different types and these are chosen for different reasons.

Our preference is for “short stay” tubes, and most kids treated by us do not need ear plugs or wraps when they go swimming.

More information on these topics is available at www.entspecialists.com.au and www.ent4kids.com.au

           

  

50  KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011  

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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. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

ADVERTISEMENT/LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE

PARENT

ville

by Aleney de Winter

Down on the funny farm There are plenty of city kids who’ve never ridden a horse or collected eggs straight from the henhouse, and even fewer who’ve actually milked a cow but as his dad grew up in rural England we wanted our boy to experience some of the joys of country life so we headed off for a weekend of mucking in on the farm.

Where milk is just milk.... on the farm Maleny Dairies is a family owned business situated in the picturesque hills of Maleny. Why not escape to Maleny for an informative and exciting tour with your children. The guided tour starts with a visit to the baby animal pen to pat the baby calves, learning about hand milking and testing the suction of the milking machines. Up next is a walk down to the pit of the dairy and finally you will explore the factory to see where the milk is processed and bottled and taste test some of the award winning flavoured milks.

After the tour, why not drop past the kiosk and enjoy a coffee, milkshakes, thickshake, soft-serve or sundae all made on Maleny Dairies award winning milk. Phone 5494 2392 to book your tour now.

I was excited at the prospect of Devilboy getting up close and personal to some cuddly country critters and was particularly keen for him to learn that milk doesn’t actually grow in plastic bottles or eggs in cardboard cartons - but my excitement was soon replaced with befuddled confusion before we could even smell the fragrant waft of animal poo in the air.

With the toddler snoring away in the back of the car dreaming of sheep and, no doubt, new ways to terrorise his mummy, I asked his dad exactly what his fondest memories of growing up in the country were - expecting an answer extolling the wholesome virtues of fresh produce, clean air and wide open spaces.

Instead he shared the following countdown of hits and memories of bucolic boyhood bliss...

Cow tipping; Shooting inanimate objects with spud guns; Shooting larger inanimate objects with air rifles; Blowing up empty tins; Setting fire to neighbours fences; Underage lock-ins at local pubs; and Snake bite – a disgusting sounding beer and cider concoction and the most cost effective way of getting drunk, he kindly pointed out to his ignorant Aussie wife. ??!!! What exactly was he envisioning from our weekend? Surely two was a bit young even for our little lunatic to experience rural life “daddy style”?

Tempted to wrench the steering wheel from my husband’s hands and turn tail back to the relative safety of our home, instead of the so called country, of which I was now terrified, as all that fresh country air had clearly affected my husband’s brain and the only farm appropriate for my husband was of the “funny” variety.

But it was too late to turn back and arriving on high alert for armed and inebriated baby backpackers terrorising the livestock, it was a mighty relief to find a pretty regular animal farm, and an absence of rampaging Englishman.

Thankfully - even with the threat of the BYO Brit brat I brought with me - the cows all stayed relatively unmolested. Well, all except for the one that had to endure being milked by our clumsy two year old demon. Backpackers were only what my tongue-twisting toddler insisted on calling the fluffy white Alpacas (he’s since confused a lot of people by explaining that he fed the “backpackers” grass). The only fire that was lit was a campfire where my son, with a helping hand from his dad, toasted damper (which he insisted was play-dough) and to my great relief billy-tea replaced the Snakebite. The only thing blown up was my little mans chest, with pride, as he rode his first horse around a paddock (having rejected the more appropriately sized Shetland pony on offer). And the only underage lock-in occurred in our bedroom door once an exhausted toddler, after a relatively late night of wild barn dancing with a busload of besotted Japanese tourists, crashed for the night.

Still, it was with much relief that we arrived back into the polluted smoggy air, prepackaged plastic produce and more cramped space of the city, my son still a tot and not a tipsy two year old terror. www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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- Enjoy interacting with children - Hold formal qualifications in Children’s services or are prepared to study in this area - Support and nurture the ‘wonder of a child’ - Have the skills to operate your own business & choose your own hours - Vacancies available throughout the Sunshine Coast

Please call us on 07 5472 0119 to discuss this opportunity further

euphoriafamilydaycare@gmail.com www.euphoriagroup.net.au

Caring for women through all stages of their life Sunshine Coast Obstetrician / Gynaecologist providing birthing and surgical services at Nambour Selangor Private Hospital

71 Blackall Terrace, Nambour, 4560. Phone 5441 7499 info@drkylieisaacs.com.au • www.drkylieisaacs.com.au NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

51

PARENT PROFILE

for others

By Belinda Hopper

Some people manage to turn their pain and loss into other people’s gain. April Hulbert is one such inspiring woman. The agonising loss of her mum to ovarian cancer in 2004 spurred her on to organise fundraising events for the Queensland Institute for Medical Research. Her most recent venture was the Rio Tinto Ride to Conquer Cancer. One-thousand, three-hundred cyclists spent two days riding two-hundred and fortyeight kilometres from Brisbane to Somerset Dam, and back. They raised $4.7 million dollars! April and her close friends together raised $22,000. April nominated to put her funds towards ovarian cancer research, in honour of her mum. She says, “I miss her every single day. Some days I still think to pick up the phone and call her because I think, ‘mum would have loved that’ or, ‘I must tell her that’. I love her dearly and miss her terribly.”

April’s next goal is to collect a thousand shoe boxes for the Operation Christmas Child appeal. “Boxes are filled with five things: something special, something to love, something to play with, something for hygiene and something to wear, then shipped to children in developing countries.” April says most of these children have never received a gift in their lives!

If you thought April’s charity efforts require a lot of energy, she is also a Les Mills Group Fitness Instructor, a Lorna Jane Ambassador and mum to Isaac (7), Noah (5) and Sonny (3)! She says of her boys, “they are always on the go and I love it. Staying healthy and active is a huge part of my life and my work. Not only do they support that, but they contribute to it each and every day.”

52

KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Can you give our readers a little snapshot of your family? I am blessed with a wonderful, very supportive family. Raising a family these days can be very challenging. Just this year my dad and step-mum and mother-in-law moved close by. They say it takes a village to raise a child. My husband, Daniel, and I finally have our village. It has made such a difference to our family, to have that extra support and the boys really love spending time with their grandparents.

Where do you live and why? We live at Kings Beach, Caloundra. I love it! After growing up in the Snowy Mountains, Jindabyne, I have made the switch from the snow to the beach. Caloundra is a beautiful part of the Sunshine Coast. I can hear the waves as I fall asleep at night; it’s awesome!

Is the journey of motherhood what you expected? No! It is so much more rewarding and far more challenging than I ever anticipated. It can be a real juggling act, at times; sharing yourself, giving yourself time, school drop-off, homework, cooking, cleaning, work... we really are all superstars!

What qualities do you most admire in each of your children? Isaac is thoughtful. He has such a soft and caring nature. His little brothers will come to realise when they are older, just how much he looks out for them. Noah – where to start? He is an old man trapped in a little body. He loves to get all dirty with his Dad and will be first to offer a hand when it comes to washing a car. Sonny is cute, but don’t let his smile fool you, he can throw a mean temper tantrum in the

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PARENT PROFILE

middle of the shopping centre with the best of them (three-year-olds!).

What delights you most about motherhood?

Random moments, however small they may be: a smile, a thankyou, a kiss, playing at the park. It’s usually the priceless moments that I cherish the most.

Who do you find inspiring? There are so many!

I think we too often look up to celebrities and miss the everyday men and women who surround us, the everyday people. Everyone has a story. I have come into contact with some extraordinary everyday Sunshine Coaster’s. Look around, the world is full of everyday heroes.

What advice has had the biggest impact on you? I can’t really pin it to one. I have some wonderful ladies in my life that I look up to and I take a bit from all of them; my nan, mum, sister, friends and family.

How do you balance family and work demands?

I am so fortunate to have such wonderful jobs. They keep me fit and healthy! I never thought I would be so lucky. I love the people that I work with and being a spin class instructor and a Lorna Jane Ambassador helps support my healthy, active lifestyle.

What does a typical day look like at your place?

6.30am wake up: breakfast, clean-up, lunches packed, school drop-off, on to the gym to teach a class or onto work at Lorna Jane. School pick up, play at the park or the beach, homework, dinner... how do we fit it all in?

What would be an ideal day for you?

A day of no fighting between the kids!

What’s the motto you live by? “I am only one, but I am one, I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do” –Edward Everett Hale What would you consider your greatest achievement so far? Raising three boys: I never thought I would achieve something so big!

Where do you see yourself in five years – personally and professionally? That is a hard question. I hope, happy and healthy and always thankful.

April’s Favourites:

Book: Tuesdays with Morrie Music: I love it all, my iPod is a mess!

Food: Thai Holiday destination: Holiday... yes please! I will pick anywhere Rainy Day activity: Movies and popcorn!

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Your children and your Will Understandably, many parents are concerned that their children, and their children’s welfare, are protected upon their death. The main issues that arise in discussions are:

Education Trusts – Often parents, and also grandparents, wish to ensure that the education of their children is catered for upon their death. A specific trust can be established within your Will to ensure this is achieved.

Guardianship – a very detailed consideration needs to be given as to who is appointed as a Guardian for your children and why. Guardians are responsible for the upbringing of your children. The Will itself is quite brief in relation to the appointment of the Guardian. A further document providing guidelines for Guardians can be entered into to address issues such as: Where children will reside and with whom; The standard of living; Family cultural and traditional values; Education; Pocket money; Sport and other activities; Health; Personal development.

Accommodation – parents are also very keen to ensure that children are properly accommodated upon their death, and specific strategies can be implemented in your Will to achieve this.

Funding – one issue that if often overlooked is the funding for children, and the repayment of debt to ensure that there is sufficient funds set aside for children.

We often recommend that specific life insurance policies are taken out to repay debt and ensure that sufficient funds are left over to support the advancement and education of their children.

Have the Final Say! Do you have a valid Will? Are your children protected?

If not then do something about it today to guarantee that your assets, including property, will be distributed according to your wishes. It is a fact that over 60% of Australians don’t have a valid Will.

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Don’t be a statistic! Start your Will online today, visit fclawyers.com.au/personalwill 1800 640 509

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YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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The original Fingerprint Company Exciting changes have occurred at Smallprint Sunshine Coast, with Kate Dodds recently taking over from Kathy. A Sunshine Coast local, Kate will capture a precious moment in time for you with a unique item of jewellery, handcrafted in fine silver. From tiny fingerprints to those first drawings and doodles, Smallprint can help you cherish each and every milestone. Treasuring memories of childhood has never been so easy and these stunning keepsakes make the perfect present for every occasion. For a gift that shows just how much you care, take a look at their fabulous range including pendants, charms, cufflinks and key rings and so much more. And don’t forget we’re not just for kids, we can print the whole family, even the family pet too!

Kate can be contacted at kate.dodds@smallp.com.au or 0412865032

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

55

LET’S CELEBRATE

Wendy Every Christmas Eve I read my girls the Aussie Night before Christmas.

Sharon We string up an advent calendar of socks/stockings etc. all numbered from 1 to 25. Then from the first of Dec our assigned Christmas elf comes and leaves the kids a clue to a treasure (usually a chocolate Santa or a Christmas tree decoration, small toy). He also tells us what he has been up to on that day i.e. today we had to wash the sleigh & brush all the reindeers, but the best thing about today when Mrs Claus baked some Christmas cookies & whipped up some eggnog.

Melissa We have got to have leg ham on toast on Christmas morning - my dad’s mum used to buy us those nougat puddings from Darrell lea - when she died, my mum did & now my girls get them.

Do you ever wonder what other people do at Christmas time or over the holiday season?

Kazzy Always have to have roses chocolates, Christmas themed treats made by the kids and of course the roast turkey...

We have done this every year dating back to my great grandmother.

Linda In the lead up to Christmas we do a variety of Christmas activities. Last year we made a gingerbread house. We usually go to a carols night (but not last year due to the rain and storms); see Christmas lights and the kids are usually involved in a Sunday school nativity play at church. Christmas morning the kids (and parents) see what is in their stockings. Then it is ham and eggs for breakfast before heading to church. After church we then open the rest of the presents with the wider family, before enjoying a roast lunch with all the trimmings followed by plum pudding and custard. Yum!

Julie Elves arrive in our house on Dec 1st, and then leave with Santa on Dec 25... they get up to all sorts of mischief when we are asleep... found them making pikelets, photocopying their butts, decorating the tree with the families undies...

Briallyn From the time the tree goes up to the time it comes down on New Year’s Day the rule is Aussie Christmas books and carols must be played and read on a daily basis! I also like to make a tropical Christmas wreath for the front door. We make it out of the palm seed fronds that drop to the ground… sprayed white or silver and decorated with seashells or Christmas balls, whatever takes our fancy!

Kids on the Coast wanted to find out what our Facebook “likers” enjoyed doing each year. Below is a selection of some of the many interesting and unusual holiday traditions. Check out our Facebook page or join a discussion on our website for more!

Donagh We have some lovely traditions in our household - we don’t buy any presents for each other - we buy one for ourselves from Santa - we all put money in for food and drinks and we just enjoy being together. We have champagne cocktails for breakfast. We have our honey glazed ham and peanut butter glazed pork with all the trimmings. We make a huge chocolate Santa Cake for desert.... and then of course like everyone else sleep or go to the beach!

Peter Our family now lives all over Australia and we rarely get together each Christmas. We have started a new tradition of Skyping at the same time, so we can all open our present from each other via the webcam. Not as good as in person, but it is still fun to see the delight on the receivers face!

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

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Clean and fun for them, great coffee for you!

With so much for your kids to do and a comfortable place for you to relax, the hardest thing about being at Skidaddle Indoor Play Centre will be getting your kids to leave. Skidaddle is a locally owned family business which opened in March 2011.

Their aim is to provide parents, grandparents and carers with a clean, safe and fun place to take your kids.

Book your birthday party now!

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Skidaddle caters for kids from 0 – 12 years of age. The toddlers have their own area, as well as two ball pits, complete with ball washer so the kids clean the balls as they play and trampoline. The older kids can enjoy the large structure, driving around in the cosy coupes, watching a movie, playing ps2 games, or racing down the 4-lane slide.

Birthday parties (or any other occasion) are easy and fun at Skidaddle with your own dedicated party host and great inclusions, with no fuss and no mess for parents.

Choose from two party rooms, or you can combine both rooms for larger parties.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on events happening including monthly themed disco’s, where the kids can dance up a storm, and enjoy treats and giveaways.

The atmosphere at Skidaddle is not what parents have come to expect from many indoor play centres; gone is the mad rush of children, dirty ball pits, echo of high ceilings and bad coffee. Parents can relax on comfy couches and enjoy great coffee, light snacks and meals, so you can stay all day. Skidaddle loves to celebrate, so keep an eye out for their next event on Facebook, or sign up for their newsletter through the website. Experience a new style of indoor play centre and café soon.

Contact Skidaddle on 5438 2412 or check out their website www.skidaddle.com.au

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

57

HAPPY HOLIDAYS The recipe to a successful teenage holiday:

The recipe to a

successful

» Plan the trip at least 6-12 months in advance

family holiday with teenagers

By Wendy Buckley If the prospect of your teenager slamming doors, getting bored and skulking away with friends every weekend looms on your horizon, rather than spending quality time with the very people who brought them into the world, take heart!

Amongst the recent trends to emerge in travel, trips for parents to spend more one-on-one time with their teenage children during their fraught high school years are becoming popular.

There is an increasing demand for packages which cater to the specific needs of parents wanting time alone with their teenage children, often away from the pressure of school, peer groups and even the competition for attention from other siblings.

Once children become young teenagers and enter their high school years, it becomes harder to find a window of opportunity to incorporate meaningful, one-on-one time with their parents to strengthen their relationship, away from the distraction of homework, domestic routines, sports training and the considerable influence of their peers.

Mother/daughter shopping and spa trips and father/ son adventure trips are currently becoming more and more popular with families with teenagers. What teenage girl would knock back a shopping trip to Hong Kong or Melbourne or a week at a spa retreat in Byron Bay? The boys love to be active and a fishing trip up in Kakadu or watching your favourite tennis, golf or rugby stars live are great options for father/son breaks.

When it comes to a family holiday with teenagers, planning is the key ingredient to success. Parents need to involve the children from the early planning stage.

» As a family decide on where you would like to holiday. Are you an active family, enjoy history, appreciate wildlife, beach lover, shopaholic or a theme park junkie? » Decide on the family budget. Have your

kids financially contribute to the holiday by giving up that new pair of jeans or have them do a part time job. They will have a far greater appreciation of the holiday.

» Apartments are a great option with

teenagers. They offer separate sleeping areas, lounge room and kitchen facilities and often 2 bathrooms. Who wants to share a bathroom with a teenager! Teenagers love to talk and be social so choose accommodation that offers a pool, games rooms and a gym.

» The one day on and one day off rule.

Every second day is an adult day and the other a teenagers/child day. » What did we do before Wi-Fi? Ensure your teenager is on mobile phone prepaid and research prior where free Wi-Fi is available allowing them to catch up with friends back home. » Prepay and pre-book! The more you prepay in A$ the more you will cut down on arguments about what to do on the trip. Meals, transport, accommodation and tours are able to be prepaid for most destinations.

» Involve the children in setting a daily budget.

» Each family member has their own back pack with a bottle of water, a good book and iPod. » A relaxed and positive attitude. The most important ingredient to a successful family holiday with teenagers which will grow organically if you follow the recipe.

Feedback from parents and their children is that these holidays are some of the most enjoyable and fun filled of their lives and brings them closer to their teenagers through shared interests and experiences. Whether that is a week in Bali surfing, shopping and lazing by the pool or hiking up Mt Blanc in France you will create a lifetime of memories for the whole family.

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

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Yearning for some quality family time?

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

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

Escape to

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

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

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

Imagine leaving even the cooking behind!

Contact us now for great rates on your Spring or Summer getaway stay@cedarglen.com.au | (07) 5544 8170 | www.cedarglen.com.au Lost World Valley, Qld

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

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

59

Meet sisters Amy Ruediger & Vanessa Porters By Jackie Goldston With eight children under the age of 12 between them, sisters Amy Ruediger and Vanessa Portors wanted a business that would showcase their creations while allowing them time to enjoy their families. After researching markets across the Sunshine Coast, the Buderim-raised sisters found home for their business and the Mamma’s Market was born. The first Mamma’s Market 12 months ago had over 75 stalls and has continued to offer a high quality, boutique style market with a focus on handmade, unique items and services catering to pregnancy, baby, childrens and families.

The sisters have utilised social media tools to grow their business as well as develop their Mamma’s Market brand on the Sunshine Coast and beyond. They have immersed themselves in the handmade and work at home community, not only through the development of their market, but also speaking at workshops and participating in networking and mentoring groups.

What inspired your business?

Being mothers ourselves, we know how important it is to have lovely things for home and family that are stylish, practical and affordable. Our vision for Mamma’s Market was to create a community event that would provide opportunities for work-at-home parents or other “mumpreneurs” as well as other small businesses to showcase their unique products.

Once we established that there was a lack of high quality boutique style markets on the Sunshine Coast and considered that this style of market would be successful in Buderim, things moved along pretty

d n a h D e k pic our selection of work at home parent finds

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

quickly. It only took one week to create the Mamma’s Market brand, secure the market venue, book monthly dates from December 2010 through to the end of 2011 and begin marketing via social media. Within two weeks we had 5000 full colour brochures printed and had made arrangements with a local sign writer to have banners and signage ready before our launch market in mid-December 2010.

us have. And like a lot of working parents, we had found some challenges in keeping the home and family happy and as well as operating a successful and efficient business.

Does it make it easier to love what you do?

Being part of a family of 7 children, we grew up with a mother who loved to sew and create for her family.

This upbringing fostered a love and appreciation for all things handmade and unique. As a result we have both always loved to attend markets to seek out special treasures, so it is a fantastic experience to be able to have our own regular local market to shop at and enjoy all the products available. Mostly we are just as excited (sometimes even more excited!) than the market shoppers as we plan our purchases and enjoy the fun of each market day.

One of the ways that we have addressed this challenge is to involve our husbands and children in the market so they also feel a sense of business ownership. Amy’s husband has become our in-house graphic artist and Vanessa’s husband manages the operation and physical set-up of each market event. Our children also help with setting up tables and other small tasks usually on the afternoon before each market. The older children also have their own stall selling “Mamma’s Market Merchandise” - helium balloons, branded lolly bags and fabric shopping bags. There are still some days that the washing does not get done and it’s takeaway for dinner, but generally we have found ways to successfully adjust our business routine around family life.

We enjoy having a business relationship with local artisans who produce lovely products and inspire us as we get to know them on a personal level. There is nothing more amazing than observing a talented but unassuming hobbyist, build a flourishing business and develop strong customer relationships through their attendance at our market.

What advice would you give to other mums starting a business?

Be Prepared to Adapt and Learn - Through our experiences we have realised that things do not always turn out the way they are planned. However, there is always something to be learnt and gained from every experience both positive and constructive.

What are the challenges you face balancing work and family?

Being a Mother is the most important job that both of

Do the Job Well - As a result of establishing the Mamma’s Market brand so quickly, we are often asked what new projects or events we are planning

Brighten your room Stunning handmade, one-of-a-kind floor mats will brighten up any room.

Made from preloved, vintage fabrics, Rugrat Floor Mats are of a firm construction and are easy care.

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Monkey Mess Monkey Clean In a fabulous range of colours and fabrics, these bandana style bibs catch your little monkey’s dribble and food whilst still looking super cute! $12 each. www.facebook.com/hungrylittlemonkeys www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

LiL Moo & Mee Decorative custom made Cushions, Bunting business card front and back & more made with beautiful bright fabrics https://www.facebook.com/LiLMooandMee

DI R E C TO R Y

beyond the market. While we have many ideas, we realise our personal limits and always strive to achieve “quality not quantity” and maintain a happy family/business balance.

Remove Emotional Involvement - A tricky area to master but essential to your business success!

Vintage, Homemade and Bits & Bobs

Impressionable Kids Free professional photo included with every frame. From Caloundra to Noosa www.impressionablekids.com.au

“Flamecat Enamelled Keepsakes” Special memories to treasure forever.

Available at markets or on-line world wide www.flamecat.com

oople We’re Jam Packed with Goodies You can find us on Facebook Shop B 97 Memorial Drive / Eumundi 4562 Shop B, 97 Memorial Drive, Eumundi QLD 4562 Jules - 0438 981 025 Kaz - 0411 042 194 oopleshop@gmail.com

It’s human nature to have differences of opinion or varied expectations, however it’s important to maintain an objective view and not allow emotion to cloud your decision-making process. Treat others in business the way you’d like to be treated in return!

Learn From Others - Attend as many relevant workshops and networking events that time will allow.

There are many organisations in the community that exist solely to support small business and provide positive support, advice and encouragement as you grow your business. We have made association with many of these groups and have been successful in increasing community awareness of our market and gaining exposure to many business opportunities.

A touch of magic for Christmas With incredible attention to detail, these handmade dolls are a great Christmas gift idea. Pixies $37 Baby doll $67 Custom orders available Rosevinekids@ hotmail.com

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The Lice Fairy Organic head lice treatment, prevention and education by Linzi - a qualified hairdresser www.thelicefairy.com.au

Little People Hand Stitched on the Sunshine Coast.

For Little Boys and Little Girls. Sizes 0000 to 6. www.littlepeopleclothing.com.au

Sunshine Coast Kids Club Mobile Kid’s Club - School holiday programs, children’s parties, corporate events www.sunshinecoastkidsclub.com.au

We Come to You, Hervey Bay to Gold Coast.

Funky Photography Fresh, Fun and Funky Photography across the Sunshine Coast www.funkyphotography.com.au

“Unique & Innovative” Fabric Memory/ Art/ Photo Boards Chalk/ Magnetic Boards www.facebook.com/ladidah

Christmas Covered Very sweet, Christmas themed ruffle pants, “Vintage Christmas” & “Bright Christmas”, will cover your little darling’s nappies and keep you in the Christmas spirit. $25 each www. facebook.com/ cottoncaboose

Forget-Me-Not Impressions 3D impressions of loved ones. Great or small.

0407 196 231 or (07) 5443 1352 www.fmni.com.au

Your Pirate’s Treasure Chest Looking for something a little different this Christmas? These charmingly crafted chests are hand made from locally sourced, reclaimed timber and metalwork, making each one unique to the little pirate owner. $120 markheslopdesigns@ hotmail.com or 0466547858

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

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S W e i V RE s! d movie n a BOOK, Apps

Fantastic Frankie and the Brain-Drain Machine

by Anna Kemp, Simon & Schuster Australia, RRP $12.99 A funny story about a boy who is sent to boarding school and realises there is something really weird going on. Frankie discovers the headmaster is planning on turning all the students into robot-like superbrains. Can Frankie and his friends save the day? Suitable for boys and girls aged 6 – 12.

BOOK A Bus Called Heaven

by Bob Graham, Walker Books, RRP $27.95 A broken, old bus appears one morning right outside Stella’s house, with a hand painted sign on it... “Heaven”. This old bus becomes a community hub worth fighting for. A beautiful picture book which is endorsed by Amnesty International UK. Suitable for boys and girls aged 3 – 6.

Reviewed by Declan

BOOK

Chosen by Freya

APP Weird But True

BOOK The Pout-Pout Fish

iPhone and iPad App RRP$1.99 This app taps into kids’ natural love for the weird, random and obscure – it allows them to enjoy and rate of 300 wacky facts from National Geographic Kids.

Suitable for ages 7+

By Deborah Diesen, Scholastic Australia, RRP $15.99 A fun, rhyming picture book about a gloomy fish who discovers that being glum isn’t really his destiny. Bright colours, playful language, lovely rhythm and engaging characters as you enjoy Mr. Fish’s transformation from a pout-pout fish to a kiss-kiss fish. Suitable for boys and girls aged 0 – 5.

Ladybird Classic Me Books iPhone and iPad App RRP$0.99 Ladybird Classic Me Books is an app of pure nostalgic joy, offering a treasure trove of golden childhood memories. Suitable for ages 3 +

MOVIE Puss In Boots

APP APP One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish – Dr Seuss Android App RRP $3.99 This classic comes to life with a few clever interactive touches. Full of Dr Suess’ ridiculous questions, they’ll have so much fun they won’t even notice they’re learning to read. Suitable for ages 1+

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

In Cinema: December 8, Rated TBA Way before Puss ever met Shrek, our suave and furry feline hero goes on a swashbuckling ride, as he teams with mastermind Humpty Dumpty and the street-savvy Kitty to steal the famed Goose that lays the Golden Eggs. Starring Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 – KiDs on tHe CoAst

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t a d e l l i r h T Be ! d l r o W e i s s Au ! w e n

n e p o now ~ Over 30 r

Mini Golf!ides and games inc lu One price for UNLIMding ITED rides !

Open daily 9am to 5pm, rides start at 10am.

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KiDs on tHe CoAst – NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011

Bruce Highway, Sunshine Coast, Qld Phone 07 5494 5444 email: fun@aussieworld.com.au

www.aussieworld.com.au

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au