Kids on the Coast Magazine - Sunshine Coast - Issue 86. May/June 2018

ISSUE 86 May/June 2018 SUNSHINE COAST

FREE

TO TAKE HOME

kidsonthecoast.com.au

PARTY SPECIAL

HUGE guide to

healthcare for kids

FOOD

Easy family dinners for fussy eaters

Less is MORE!

Simple ways to improve kids’ wellbeing and bring some calm to your home

ww

WELCOME

“Get your shoes on!”

“Please brush your teeth!”

“Where’s your hat?”

“Quick, into the car, we’re late for school!”

“Sorry, we can’t paint right now, you’ve got swimming lessons…”

“Where’s your swim bag?”

“Yes, play on the iPad, I’ve got to catch up on work…”

“Put that down, it’s time for a bath!” “%@#!&*... BRUSH YOUR TEETH!!”

Sound familiar?

busy-ness

The that envelops my household is something that probably rings true with so many families today. And, even with the best intentions, after a day of hustling little ones from A to B whilst juggling the day-to-day, my well-intended zen has morphed from ‘present-and-patient mama’ into ‘ranty-mojito-skulling mama’!

Yet the busier we get, the more I hear about families making the conscious change to slow down; to disconnect from the crazy and get back to a simpler day-to-day.

Injecting a little into our lives has been something I’ve been super-keen to do with my family recently, because there’s many days where I feel we all need to step off the rollercoaster for a while. Not only because I’m about to lose my mind, but the experts say the benefits for the kids are significant too: More time for unstructured play means more time for kids to explore and follow their curiosity.

Less commitments means more time outdoors – at the park, at the beach, in nature.

It can teach kids to stop for a moment and to be more mindful.

Kids are less entitled and value simple living.

Kids are familiar with boredom and more content with themselves.

Kids sleep better.

You are less stressed!

SLOW

DON’T Caught between the ridiculous preconceived notion that I’m failing as a parent if my kids aren’t constantly engaged in enriching activities, and the new-world belief that I’m failing as a parent if I don’t give my kids ample time for unstructured play (seriously, we all need stop with the mama guilt!), slower living seems to be the perfect solution. If only I had the time!

So, this month, I’ve taken a few tips from our Wellbeing Special (see page 39) and have introduced three simple switches into our world to slow it all down a little.

1. Saying no to that Saturday playdate, and yes to ice-creams on the beach.

2. Forgetting the dinner dishes and lying on the deck to watch the stars.

3. Removing an after-school activity and hanging around for that spontaneous play in the park.

Admittedly, our daily grind still often resembles the chaos of a Die Hard movie, and ‘ranty-mojito mama’ is still burning bright, but I hope those little slices of shared slowness are being filed away in my kids’ happy memory banks somewhere.

Because I realised my kids have their whole lives to be busy, let’s share a few while we still can.

care-less moments

With love,

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P.S. No, they still didn’t brush their teeth!

The team PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Angela Sutherland

PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR Helen Rush

ACCOUNT MANAGER GOLD COAST Bridget Vallis

ACCOUNT MANAGER BRISBANE Rebecca Kane

DEPUTY EDITOR Amardy Baucke

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Eva Lewis

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tanya Nissen

GRAPHIC DESIGN Michelle Craik

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MAY/JUNE 2018

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CONTENTS

Features 29

ULTIMATE PARTY GUIDE: With everything you need to get your party started!

PUBLISHED BY

39

WELLBEING: The experts share their tips on how to improve the wellbeing of our kids.

45

HEALTH: We explore the many health services available for kids today.

SH RE

MEDIA

PO Box 852, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573 inbox@shoremedia.com.au Phone 07 5471 2362

More than just a magazine, we are a vibrant community, bringing the best in local news, events, features and more to parents across the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Brisbane. Made by local parents, for local parents, we strive to be the first and only place families come to connect – where they are understood, united and inspired.

Stella (age 9)

ADVERTISING SUNSHINE COAST: helen@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706 GOLD COAST: bridget@shoremedia.com.au 0468 868 087

Cover Photograph: Verve Portraits Balloon poodles: Miss Donna the Clown Hat: Cloth & Hide, Peregian Beach Dress: ORIGAMI, Laser Cut Scuba Dress, Myer Shoes: WALNUT, Catie Sparkle Ballet, Myer

Regulars

FROM THE EDITOR .................................................................................................................. 3 WHAT’S ON: The best local events for May and June............................................................. 6 LOCAL NEWS: The latest news in your area .......................................................................... 10 NEW BUSINESS: Local businesses to enhance your kid-sized life ...................................... 13 NOTICEBOARD: All the news and achievements from our local schools .......................... 17 CHECK THIS OUT: The latest products topping our #want list!......................................... 20 EDUCATION: What is a growth mindset and why is it so important?................................ 23 EARLY LEARNING: Meet the nature-inspired investigators ............................................... 26 FOOD: Delicious fajitas for fussy eaters ................................................................................. 50 LOCAL LIFE: We jump on board the Life Education van with Healthy Harold! ................ 52 CLASSIFIEDS: Local products and services ........................................................................... 55 REVIEWS: This season's movies, books and apps ................................................................. 58 We encourage recycling. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

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BRISBANE: rebecca@shoremedia.com.au 0411 645 887 JULY/AUGUST 2018 BOOKING DEADLINES Ad booking: June 13 Art deadline: June 13 Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across Southeast Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast.

For distribution enquiries inbox@shoremedia.com.au Printed at Fast Proof Press Printing All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications are published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Feedback, comments or suggestions?

Send to: inbox@shoremedia.com.au.

We aim to reply to all correspondence.

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WHERE THE LOCALS MEET!

FREE SHOWS

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN

EXPLORE BINDI’S AFRICA ISLAND

WILDLIFE EXPLORE PHOTOS AFRICA

Open daily 9:00am - 5:00pm (Closed Christmas Day) Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, Sunshine Coast, Queensland

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What's ON

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW! Sign up at kidsonthecoast.com.au or kidsinthecity.com.au for our weekly What’s On guide.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE MORE EVENTS!

WINTER

LIVE FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE www.kidsonthecoast.com.au kidsinthecity.com.au

FROM MAY 10

NOOSA FIT KIDS Every Tuesday 3.30–4.30pm Noosa Leisure Centre noosaleisurecentre.com.au Noosa Fit Kids is a fun, non-competitive multisport program offering both team and individual activities for kids ages 4–8 years.

A variety of sports will be featured throughout the program, including: basketball, soccer, cricket, gymnastics, tennis, badminton, netball and volleyball. Activities are rotated on a weekly basis and are delivered by a qualified personal trainer who specialises in children’s fitness.

TULLY

Academy Award® winner Charlize Theron gives a knock-out performance in the new comedy-drama from Up In The Air and Juno director, four-time Academy Award® nominee Jason Reitman. Tully is a brilliant, refreshingly modern and surprising film offering an honest and entertaining look at the funny-buttrue realities of parenthood, family relationships and female friendship. From renowned filmmakers and with a stellar cast, Tully is sure to get people talking!

LITTLE ARTIST AND LITTLE AUTHOR CLASSES Monday – Friday, throughout school term; Little Palm Studio facebook.com/littlepalmstudio Little Artist and Little Author classes are fun and educational sessions designed to assist kids in discovering and expressing their own unique creative styles. Choose from art and poetry/writing.

Classes held after school Monday to Friday 3.30–4.30pm, and Saturday mornings from 9.30–10.30am.

QUEENSLAND AIR MUSEUM Open daily qam.com.au The Queensland Air Museum is the perfect local attraction for both aviation enthusiasts and families alike! The not-for-profit museum is open daily (except Christmas Day) from 10am to 4pm and is a super-fun day out with the kids!

Little Wildlings Nature Playgroup

Various natural spaces across the Sunshine Coast North Coast: Fridays during term time. South Coast: Tuesdays during term time wildlingsforestschool.com Little Wildlings Nature Playgroup is a nomadic, nature-based play group for children who are not yet of school age. Meeting in wild spaces around the Sunshine Coast, this Steiner influenced group follows a loose rhythm that revolves around free play and exploration in nature surrounded by a loving and compassionate community of parents who are guiding their children on their life journey. Whilst unstructured nature play will dominate the session, Little Wildlings are also invited to participate in weekly invitational activities that might including story time, seasonal songs and nature arts and crafts.

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

SUNSHINE COAST - BRISBANE - GOLD COAST

8* LY 201 U J 1 O ET 26 JUN .AU L.COM QPAC STIVA O U TO

FTHEB

OX F E

Three weeks of events, activities & workshops for all.

VIEW THE FULL PROGRAM AT OUTOFTHEBOXFESTIVAL.COM.AU GOVERNMENT PARTNERS

PRINCIPAL PARTNER

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What's ON

DON'T MISS OUT ON ANY EVENTS! Sign up at kidsonthecoast.com.au or kidsinthecity.com.au for our weekly What’s On guide.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE MORE EVENTS!

PLAY SCHOOL LIVE IN CONCERT

PEPPA PIG’S SURPRISE

Once Upon a time 2018

5 July: Caboolture Memorial Hall 6 July: Lake Kawana Community Centre kidspromotions.com.au “There’s a bear in there and a chair as well, there are people with games and stories to tell.” Australia’s favourite children’s television program that has been on air for over 50 years, is touring. It’s Play School!

Come join the Presenters, Jemima, Big Ted, Little Ted and Humpty as they travel through an enchanting adventure filled with stories, songs and dance. For ages 12 months +.

KIAH PARK HORSE RIDING CAMPS 7-day camps: 30 June – 7 July 2018; 7 – 14 July 2018 Kiah Park; kiahpark.com.au Kiah Park is a horse paradise for school-aged children set on 315 acres of beautiful rolling valleys in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

There is a unique horse to suit every rider, whether your child is a beginner or has had many years of experience. Each child adopts a horse to pamper and care for and enjoys arena lessons, trail rides and lots of camp activities all throughout the week. It is a place where beautiful new friendships are formed in a fun and safe environment, doing what every horse-crazy child loves best.

ART

ADVENTURES

14 June

Noosa Regional Gallery A FREE program designed especially for preschool aged children and their parents/carers. Bookings essential as class sizes are limited.

10.30am–11.30am.

GUY SEBASTIAN, THEN AND NOW REGIONAL TOUR

7 July Lake Kawana Community Centre scvenuesandevents.com.au For the first time in two and a half years, Guy Sebastian will be taking his band on the road with a hit-laden Then and Now regional tour. One of Australia’s most popular and successful male artists, Guy will bring a blockbuster set to some of his favourite regional cities throughout June and July.

THE GRUFFALO RLD, ONS ACROSS THE WO AF TER SELL-OUT SEAS AY, DW OA BR & ’S WEST END INCLUDING LONDON .

LIA RA ST AU TO RNS THE GRUFFALO RETU

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The Events Centre, Caloundra. 19 September; 10am and 1pm theeventscentre.com.au A mouse took a stroll through the deep, dark wood …

After sell-out seasons across the world, including London’s West End and Broadway, The Gruffalo returns to Australia. Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

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

26 June; 12pm and 2pm The Events Centre, Caloundra theeventscentre.com.au Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back in Australia in a brand new live stage show Peppa Pig’s Surprise. In Peppa Pig’s Surprise audiences will enjoy interactive fun, games and, of course, surprises. This charming, colourful new show features new songs and new life-size puppets. Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers.

B RA N D N EW LIV E SHOW!

THE EVENTS CENTRE CALOUN DRA • 26 JUN E theeventscentre.com.au Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003

CHILDREN’S LIVE THEATRE PROGRAM 2018 One cow, one moon, one mission...

Friday 18 May @ 10am

Wednesday 19 September @ 10am & 1pm

Bookings: Ph 07 5491 4240 or www.theeventscentre.com.au kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

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Local NEWS

Got a s Email outor ryedittoorshare? inbox@shoremedia on .com.au

Visit our website for more news – kidsonthecoast.com.au/news

DID YOU

KNOW? ON AVERAGE, A FOURYEAR-OLD WILL ASK 400 QUESTIONS IN ONE DAY. HEADACHE ANYONE? THE LARGEST TEA PARTY EVER WAS HELD IN INDORE, INDIA, WITH 32,681 TEA DRINKING GUESTS.

The first commercial sausage balloons were manufactured in 1912. People began twisting balloons to make animals by the late 1930s.

DEIPNOPHOBIA IS THE FEAR OF DINNER PARTY CONVERSATIONS. YAWNING IS SO CONTAGIOUS THAT IT CAN SPREAD TO DOGS AND MONKEYS. Dolphins not only have names for each other, but they can call out for each other specifically.

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KIDS RECYCLING TOOTHBRUSHES TO WIN A RECYCLED COMMUNITY GARDEN! Students have the chance to win a recycled community garden set by diverting thousands of oral care products from landfill, thanks to a recycling competition run by Colgate, Chemist Warehouse and TerraCycle.

Between 23 March and 31 October 2018, the Colgate Community Garden Challenge invites pre-, primary and secondary schools to collect all brands of oral care waste and send it to TerraCycle, who will give the waste a second life by creating new products.

Five recycled community garden sets will be awarded to five schools, with each set including three garden beds, two custom-made benches, one rubbish bin and one sign, plus a $500 gardening voucher to buy seeds and plants.

Besides showing how recycled materials can be used as a sustainable alternative to virgin plastic, Colgate, Chemist Warehouse and TerraCycle hope the sets will promote gardening and healthy eating among schools.

Schools can visit terracycle.com.au/ colgategarden to join the competition, access posters and resources to get started, and watch their competition ranking on a digital leaderboard. Individuals can also vote for their nominated school at terracycle.com.au/ colgategardenvoting.

COUNCIL’S NEW YOUTH ACTION PLAN ANNOUNCED A plan that recognises the importance of Sunshine Coast’s young residents has been endorsed by council recently.

Direct feedback from the region’s young people helped in the creation of the three priorities, named as: ‘Enhanced communication’, ‘Inclusive and interesting experiences’, and ‘Having a say’.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said that council

had a strong and continuing commitment to supporting the development of opportunities for our young people.

“The feedback we received from our youth was that their short-term goals are centred on study, employment and travel and as they are their goals, they are ours to focus on as well,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“Study opportunities, employment opportunities and transportation are all issues which are high on our agenda.

“We are also committed to encouraging more young people to be involved in decisions that impact on their lives and that they are given the opportunity to actively participate in community life.

“It is important council continues to tap into the enthusiasm, optimism, innovation and creativity of our young people to help shape the future of our healthy, smart, creative region.”

STORY DOG SUPPORTS CHILDREN’S LITERACY IN MOUNTAIN CREEK Some lucky Year Two students at Mountain Creek State School have started to practise their reading with a special visitor – Bear the Story Dog – thanks to The Friends of Maroochydore Library.

The Nova Scotia Duck Toller, and his handler Lori have been sponsored by the Friends of Maroochydore Library for the 2018 school year through the Story Dogs organisation.

“Story Dogs is a reading support program which allows selected children to read to an accredited dog and its handler,” Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said.

The Story Dogs mission aligns with Sunshine Coast Libraries’ mission to make reading fun for children so they can become confident, lifelong readers. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

S OWGROUND

NAMBOUR SH

JOIN US AT QUEENSLAND’S PREMIER GARDENING EVENT More than 360 exhibitors including 55 nurseries • 40,000 plants for sale daily Landscape garden displays • Cooking stage • Giant organic kitchen garden Free lectures and demos each day on 8 live stages by some of Australia’s top gardening presenters • Free advice at the Plant Clinic Food courts, entertainment, free kids playground and activities and more!

# E E R F !

S I Y R T N E KIDGASRDEN PATCH & FREE ACTIVITIES

#15 years & under

KIDS

PROUDLY ORGANISED BY

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DISCOVER the difference 

Loving and respectful Christ-centred approach



High ratio of fully degree qualified teachers



Pioneers of Bush Kindy

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No Kindergarten fees on school holidays

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Access to College library, computer lab, community garden and sporting facilities

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It’s OK to get Dirty!

DISCOVER for yourself 

Stay and Play Thursdays - curious kids and parents to spend a morning with us.



Personal Tours - Book a tour and meet the staff

In the heart of Suncoast Christian College, Cnr Shubert & Kiel Mtn Roads, Woombye

Enquiries: Krystle Cullen on 5451 3648

and children at Suncoast Little Learners.

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NEW

BUSINESS Local businesses to enhance your kid-sized life

Want to share y story? Email o our business inbox@shoreme ur editor at dia.com.au

“I love my job, it gives me so much satisfaction to work with children and parents/carers.”

GETTING CREATIVE IN YANDINA A new creative arts studio has opened in Yandina, offering fun art and poetry/writing workshops for both children and adults.

The workshops are designed to assist kids in discovering and expressing their own unique creative styles. At the end of the day, each child will produce a finished art or written piece to take home. The studio also offers poetry, writing and art classes for adults and for the huge homeschooling community across the Sunshine Coast.

Based in the oldest church on the Sunshine Coast, this little old church is suddenly the new creative kid on the block! And the beautiful space of the Little Palm Studio is the perfect place at which to create. Find out more at facebook.com/littlepalmstudio.

NURTURING SUNSHINE COAST KIDS A new paediatric practice has opened on the Sunshine Coast, providing parents with a choice on which paediatrician their child can attend.

Qualified paediatrician and founder of Nurture Paediatrics, Dr Caroline Hughes, has worked in child health and paediatrics for over 16 years and has extensive knowledge in paediatric medicine with a special interest in child advocacy.

“As a paediatrician, I help children to become the healthiest version they can be, Caroline explained. “This looks different for every child and their family, it is my job to formulate how a child can learn, laugh and play regardless of their medical condition. I strive to achieve this using a least intrusive approach.

“A child should not be defined by their medical condition. I try my best to simplify and demystify a family’s stress. This can be emotionally challenging and overwhelming.

However, I want parents and carers to feel kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

they have someone who is prepared to walk the journey with them,” said Caroline.

“I love my job, it gives me so much satisfaction to work with children and parents/carers. It is always my aim to ensure that my patients and the parent or carers feel completely at ease and able to communicate with me openly. It is extremely important to me to always remain professional but my consultations with patients are always full of laughter and smiles. Going to a doctor for sick children is really tough so I hope with Nurture Paediatrics that I can give the children on the Coast some relief that I will welcome them with warmth, bundled with smiles.”

Nurture Paediatrics offers a range of services: baby checks, weight or growth concerns, feeding issues, sleep problems, concerns regarding development, learning disabilities, diagnosis and management of autism spectrum disorder, genetic conditions, paediatric allergies.

To reduce any disturbance to a child’s routine, the practice is also open for appointments before school and on Saturday mornings. Find out more at nurturepaediatrics.com.au.

HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT! Looking for a place you can have your cake and eat it? The newly opened Cake Yard Café

in Glenview is rapidly becoming a firm family favourite on the Sunshine Coast. As well as providing great coffee, delicious homemade desserts and a tranquil garden environment, there is a children’s play area allowing mum and dad to enjoy a coffee. The café also offers clever extras such as ‘decorate a cupcake’ trays, where kids can assemble their own cupcake, and colouring competitions to keep little ones occupied.

“We are very family orientated,” said Samantha, joint owner of Cake Yard Café.

“We know what it’s like to be mums, trying to take children out, so we aim to make it both affordable and easy!”

If you are looking for a bigger feed, Cake Yard Café also serves big breakfasts on Sundays and yummy lunches throughout the week.

Looking beyond the everyday café, Cake Yard Café also offers High Teas for all ages, cake classes for adults and children, and ample space for private functions such as weddings, baby showers and all celebrations.

“The kids’ decorating classes can be tailored for girls and boys, whether they want to create Batman or Unicorn cupcakes,” said Samantha. Samantha’s mother has assisted in the development of classes through the professional skills of being a paediatric Occupational Therapist. “We are very aware of helping children with fine motor skills,” she continued. “Therefore, some of our children’s classes will be centred around helping children develop those fine motor skills and strengthen those muscles that are used for handwriting.”

However, at the core of Cake Yard Café are the designer cakes they produce. From wedding cakes and novelty cupcakes to birthday cakes and more. Find out more at facebook.com/cakeyard.

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NEW

BUSINESS Local businesses to enhance your kid-sized life

“I really value the community we live in…”

Want to share y story? Email o our business inbox@shoreme ur editor at dia.com.au

fulfil their hopes and dreams with confidence and resilience.”

Jill continued, “The more proactive and preventative we can be for children under 12, the less they will struggle later in their teens.”

Dandelion is passionate about making this service available to as many children as possible so ensures the gap fee with a Mental Health Care plan from a GP or paediatrician is kept to a minimum. Find out more at dandelionpsychology.com.au.

TWIRLS ‘N’ SWIRLS NEW ALLIED HEALTH CENTRE FOR THE HINTERLAND Speech Pathologist and mother of two, Liz Garcia, has opened a new allied health centre in Maleny, bringing a much-needed set of children’s health services to the Hinterland and surrounding areas.

“I was working as a mobile speech therapist and had a room at a couple of different medical centres, but when the opportunity arose to set up my practice from a central location in town, I couldn’t pass it by. It was very satisfying knowing that I was providing a much-needed service to our community that was not previously available.”

Due to increasing client demands and the needs of the community Liz now operates a fully equipped therapy centre which provides a range of allied health and family services under the one roof including speech pathology, occupational therapy, psychology, physiotherapy and dietetics. The Beyond Words Therapy Centre brings together a range of experienced paediatric professionals to offer high-quality, multidisciplinary care to children and families.

“By bringing together a range of experienced health professionals in the one location, we are able to best identify and prioritise concerns, and ultimately, provide effective intervention for everyone. We hope to make life a little easier for all our families by providing a range of services in the one convenient location. The clinic is warm and inviting and it is child and family focused.

I happily invite anyone to come and have a look around.”

As well as children’s health services, the Beyond Words Therapy Centre also offers mums and bubs music classes, mums and bubs yoga classes and kids yoga classes.

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Liz is also always on the lookout for new services to bring to the Hinterland.

“I really value the community we live in, and want to ensure we meet the needs of the community by providing as many good quality services as we can.”

Find Beyond Words Therapy on Instagram and Facebook, or find out more at beyondwordstherapycentre.com.au.

EVERY CHILD CAN SMILE INSIDE A brand new Clinical Psychology practice focusing primarily on families and children under 12 has opened in Maroochydore.

Offering the highest standard of psychological assessment and therapeutic intervention for a wide range of mental health struggles and presentations for children under 12, the vision of Dandelion Psychology is for ‘every child to smile inside’.

Dr Jill Cumberbatch, Director and Clinical Psychologist, has over 17 years’ post doctorate clinical experience specifically working with children and families in the UK and Australia. Jill has dedicated her career to working with children and families and is passionate about ensuring children have the best chance at life.

“I believe every child matters,” Jill said, “and every child deserves the opportunity to

A local Journalism student is turning a hobby into a thriving business, offering affordable face painting across the Sunshine Coast.

“I started off four years ago, doing face painting for my little sister!” said Kristen Lee, founder of Twirls ‘n’ Swirls Face Painting.

“Then I also did face painting for my cousins and friends, and found I really enjoyed it!”

Discovering a hidden talent, Kristen set up her business to bring her gorgeous and unique designs to birthday parties, fairs, events and markets across the Sunshine Coast.

“I love seeing the kids’ faces when they get their face painted, and how happy they are! Kristen explained. “They can become anything they want – a superhero, a fairy, they can have a flower crown or a snake wrapped around their arm! And it’s not just girls who like to get their faces painted, I find boys really love it too.”

At the core of her business model is ensuring her services are affordable. “I keep my prices reasonable,” she explained. “I love what I do, and want to make sure kids can have face painting at their parties without it being too expensive for the parents.”

You can find Twirls ‘n’ Swirls at facebook.com/twirlsnswirlsfacepainting.

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47 Lomond Crescent, Caloundra West QLD 4551 kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

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Principal’s Tour Prep - Year 12 Tuesday 29th May 2018 9:15am-10:15am

Pu rsuing excellence in ... cha ra cter NCC offers a board range of opportunities, Mr Geoff van der Vliet, College Principal speaks about how we provide SECURITY, SUPPORT and SUCCESS for each student.

PRINCIPAL’S TOUR th Tuesday 29 May 9:15am

Bookings are encouraged.

Bookings are encouraged www.ncc.qld.edu.au

NAMBOUR CHRISTIAN COLLEGE 2 McKenzie Road, Woombye QLD 4559 | (07) 5451 3333 | www.ncc.qld.edu.au

VISIT OUR NEW EARLY LEARNING SPACES!

Growing people

to make a difference

Pacific Lutheran Early Learning encourages children to grow through connections with people and places. Co-located on the Pacific Lutheran College campus, our centre provides an inspiring environment where your child can explore their interests and flourish.

Core focus on relationships

New flexible learning spaces

CONTACT Chris Henschke, College Registrar P 5436 7321 A Woodlands Boulevard, Meridan Plains 4551

FROM

2 Yrs +

Specialist early childhood staff

Kindergarten program within a long day care model

VISIT US ON ANY WEEK DAY!

pacificlutheran.qld.edu.au

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NO T ICEBOARD

EMAIL YOUR SCHOOL'S STORIES TO: INBOX @SHOREMEDIA.COM.AU

All the news and achievements from our local schools

BUSH BABIES COME TOGETHER AT SUNSHINE BEACH STATE SCHOOL A free Sunshine Bush Playgroup is bringing families from across Noosa together, reconnecting kids with the bush and the land. Held every Tuesday in the Sunshine Beach State School permaculture garden, the playgroup is run by a special team made up of teachers, university lecturers, wildlife specialists and horticulture enthusiasts – it’s not your everyday playgroup!

Teacher Bec Kennett said, “We get down and dirty with a variety of activities each week.

We’ve made succulent planters wrapped in paper bark, natural teepees and so much more.”

She explained that families can be as active in the garden as they want or alternatively they can just be at one in the garden.

There are a variety of hands on activities ranging from kids just playing with the worms in the worm bath, to creating clay creations, to sitting under the fruit trees with volunteer Bob Carey and listening to his stories about plants and animals in the surrounding environment.

“Families come together in our wonderful garden and share experiences. It’s all about connecting with each other and the environment around us. I feel the more we get out and just BE, then, that’s what great memories are made of,” suggested Di Seels, a teacher at the school.

The Sunshine Bush Playgroup team consists of Bec Kennett, a long-standing teacher from the school, Di Seels, the heart of the program and an environmental university lecturer, Bob Carey, an avid bird lover and nature specialist, and Anika and Stephen fantastic horticulture specialists.

“Our team work together to provide a funfilled environmentally charged journey each week that families will remember way into the future” said Bec Kennett.

The playgroup is free and open to all families with under school-age children.

GIRL POWER GOES HIGH TECH Three tech-savvy young Noosa students have represented Good Shepherd Lutheran College as Regional Ambassadors for the Tech Girls Movement at the inaugural event hosted by the University Sunshine Coast (USC) recently.

Tech Girls is an initiative created by kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

Dr Jenine Beekhuyzen, a Brisbane-based university lecturer, author and technology based business owner, who wants to encourage more girls to engage in IT and consider choosing IT as a career pathway.

The students attended the full-day event at the USC with their three teacher mentors, along with students and teacher mentors from three other schools on the Sunshine Coast.

As guest speaker, Dr Beekhuyzen presented the girls with a challenge to identify a problem that aligned with one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.

Good Shepherd Lutheran College IT teacher, Mrs Nicola Cumner, believes supporting girls in pursuit of IT related subjects is pivotal to Australia’s economy with predictions that 81,000 new technology jobs will be created by the year 2022.

“At Good Shepherd, we are passionate about creating opportunities for girls to explore different IT careers, including entrepreneurial pathways,’” said Mrs Cumner.

“As Tech Girl Ambassadors, the students will be sharing their skills and passion with other girls across the Sunshine Coast region.

“It is important to embrace this generation’s creativity, technical skills and drive to change the world, and the Tech Girls initiative seeks to capture all of this to create solutions for world problems.”

Each team is matched to a mentor from the IT industry who video conferences with them once a fortnight to help guide them through the process.

The winning team at the end of the competition will be given the opportunity to go to Silicon Valley in the US for a week to explore the different business and pitch their app to businesses like Google.

MAY/JUNE 2018

17

EDUCATION NURTURING COOLUM’S EARLY LEARNERS AT DRAGONFLY’S

PROFILE

A GLASSER QUALITY SCHOOL IN SUNSHINE BEACH

For over 24 years, Sunshine Beach State School has used William Glasser’s Choice Theory as the psychological base in their classroom. We chat to Principal Jenny Easey to find out more.

What is a Glasser Quality School?

Choosing a daycare centre for your little one can often be one of the toughest early parenting decisions you can make. For parents in Coolum that decision has become a whole world easier with Dragonfly’s Early Learning Centre now open. With spaces filling up fast this innovative centre offers quality care and education for the region’s early learners.

“Our thoughtfully designed environment enables children to feel safe and secure and offers a real sense of belonging,” owner Jodie Crawley said.

“The spaces also provide great opportunities for self-expression and the development of positive relationships.”

THE ENVIRONMENT Dragonfly’s provides a holistic approach to education in an indoor–outdoor inclusive environment. “The centre boasts tonnes of outdoor play space, with individual outdoor areas for toddler, pre-kindy and Kindergarten children. And each area is rich in challenges that support their physical development,” Jodie explained.

“One of our play areas is aptly named ‘The Forest’, where several big beautiful trees grow!”

And it is in this extensive outdoor space where children can also begin to learn the value of sustainable living – growing vegetables, gardening, exploring and connecting with nature.

“It’s important to embed a

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connection with nature into the children’s lives and teach children the importance of sustainable practices at this critical early age” said Jodie.

One of the biggest appeals to local parents is the daily organic and free-range meal catering provided at Dragonfly’s courtesy of a local Noosa chef. Not only does this ensure key nutritional requirements are met every day for little learners but also Mum and Dad don’t need to pack a lunch box each day!

Dragonfly’s is also a chemicalfree environment ensuring your little one is kept safe from any nasties and harmful toxins.

THE PROGRAM Offering a child-centred program based upon the principles and practices outlined in the National Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), Dragonfly’s program focuses on the value of PLAY. With activities and experiences catering for each child’s individual development it’s a stimulating program designed to assist in the development of the whole child setting every child up with a lifelong love for learning.

“We believe in the importance of interest-based learning,” said Jodie. “Children are more willing to engage and participate in learning when their interests are being stimulated.”

And if that’s not enough there’s soccer, tennis and yoga too! Find out more at dragonflys.com.au.

A Glasser Quality School is a happy and joyful place where people and quality relationships are at the heart of how we operate. By actively eliminating fear and coercion from our school, and continually building and maintaining strong and supportive relationships, we are able to remove barriers to our Sunshiners’ learning. We believe that learning in school is directly proportional to how well the people involved get along with one another.

One of the key ways we build this supportive environment is by everyone working together to replace Disconnecting Habits: Criticising, Blaming, Threatening, Punishing, Rewarding to control, with Connecting Habits: Supporting, Listening, Trusting, Respecting.

What are the benefits of Choice Theory?

Choice Theory teaches us how and why human beings behave. It gives us tools for understanding ourselves and other people as well as the tools to build strong relationships and a happy, satisfying life. Understanding my own behaviour at a deep level helps me to take better control of my life and to effectively solve

the problems that we all face each day. Glasser Quality Schools across the world are successful because they focus on the way people relate to each other as they work together.

Why did you choose to introduce the program?

We want the absolute best for our Sunshiners, their families and our staff. We want to help our Sunshiners to develop the skills and understanding to be happy, successful children and to become happy, successful adults.

What impact has it had at the school?

We have happy, engaged learners, and staff, students and parents view the school as a joyful place! We’ve experienced better relationships throughout the school with problems and disagreements seen as solvable issues and used as opportunities for learning (for students and adults). As a result of removing barriers to learning and teaching, we’ve seen on-going, high academic achievement results and NAPLAN scores. And with incredibly positive feedback from families, parents are continually requesting opportunities to learn Choice Theory themselves (e.g. the ‘Being the Parent I Want to Be’ workshops).

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

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Moon Child Ivy Playsuit This on-trend unisex playsuit is available in soft cotton Muslin and hand-printed cotton. The straps are adjustable and can be knotted or tied in a bow at the back. Wear alone or layered with a long-sleeve tee in these colder months.

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Playpa - Ocean Colour, sticker, play in this oceanic playground – the latest edition in the Playpa range from Ollie Ella! Set your kids off on a colouring adventure as they get lost under the sea with eight metres of deep sea, treasure hunting, creaturespotting fun! Decorate the Playpa with Olli Ella’s themed Playpa stickers. Meet the colourful characters who will add to the fun of ocean exploration. $22.95 olliella.com.au

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Personalised jigsaw puzzle Stop puzzling over the perfect personalised gift! These gorgeous high-quality wooden jigsaw puzzles from Stuck On You come in 21 exquisite designs, with something to suit every personality! Available in both small and large size and delivered with a felt cover, the beautiful puzzles look fabulous in any playroom or nursery and will become a timeless keepsake for years to come. From $39.90 stuckonyou.com.au

Origami party dress This origami navy woven ‘jacquard’ party dress is perfect for your little one’s next party!

Origami encapsulates the fun of dressing up for little girls. Exclusive to Myer, the brand stocks special dresses for special occasions, from toddlers through to ‘tweens’.

Check out the full range of dresses, knitwear, jackets and accessories in-store or online.

Sizes 0–2 $59.95. 3–8 $64.95 myer.com.au

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Mister Fly Playmat For an uber-stylish playmat that is super-cute to boot, this Mister Fly Playmat is the perfect addition to your bambino’s room. With ample padding for little bums and a wide 1m diameter, there are several designs to choose from: bunny, raccoon or lion. $99.95–$109.95 rawsunshinecoast.com.au

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21

Growing people

to make a difference

Pacific Lutheran College’s early childhood program provides a strong foundation for your child. The Foundation College, from Kindergarten to Year 2, provides a stimulating and vibrant learning environment where your child’s creativity is nurtured and acknowledged, to foster their confidence and independence.

Strong parent partnerships

Specialist early childhood teachers and assistants

CONTACT Chris Henschke, College Registrar P 5436 7321 A Woodlands Boulevard, Meridan Plains 4551

Flexible learning spaces

Focus on literacy, numeracy and problem solving

VISIT US ON ANY WEEK DAY!

pacificlutheran.qld.edu.au

investigate

Family owned and operated Early Learning Centres established 2003 Highly qualified & engaging educators to encourage children to explore, create, imagine and grow

CREATE

Creative play spaces and exceptional resources designed to enhance a love of learning and fun Embedded programs in sustainability, music, dancing, art and multiculture High focus on developing children’s life and self help skills

nurture

Kindergarten programs run by 4 Year Qualified Early Childhood Teachers

Healthy als Nutritious Me Provided

imagine

Specialist dance tuition include for all Kindergarten Children

Beerwah Aroona Chancellor Pk Brightwater 5494 0833 5438 1414 5476 9777 5493 9797

www.bellagrace.com.au 22

MAY/JUNE 2018

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EDUCATION

DEVELOPING A

GROWTH MINDSET

'Growth mindset’ is a phrase increasingly being used at schools.

But WHAT is it, and WHY is it so ?'

important

“No pain, no gain” … Anyone who has ever tried to get fit or sculpt that perfect summer body knows that you really must work at it to succeed. Yet when it comes to school, many people assume that superior intelligence or ability is the key to success; you’ve either got it or you haven’t; your capabilities are fixed and there is nothing you can do about it. This is fixed mindset thinking.

WHAT IS GROWTH MINDSET? Fortunately, thirty years of research is debunking this myth. Growth mindset is the idea that we can grow our brain's capacity to learn and to solve problems. It is believing that success is 1% talent and 99% percent hard work. It’s knowing that effort, planning, persistence, and good strategies are what it really takes to succeed.

This research illustrates two important facts about growth mindset: it works, and it can be developed. It is not something children are born with, but parents and teachers can help to develop it. Here are a few strategies that are effective.

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

THE BRAIN IS LIKE A MUSCLE Parents and teachers should teach children that the brain is like a muscle that gets stronger with use. Learning prompts neurons in the brain to grow new connections and practice strengthens these new neural pathways. Understanding this simple model of the brain allows children to take control of their own brain development.

Emphasising effort through a growth mindset gives children a variable they can control as they learn. Conversely, focusing on natural talent takes success out of the child’s control, and crushes resilience after a failure.

THE POWER OF PRAISE Carol Dweck1, the growth mindset guru, highlights the crucially important role that praise from parents and teachers can play in building a child’s mindset.

If we praise children for their intelligence (“You got it – you’re so smart!”), they get the message that ‘looking smart’ is all-important.

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23

EDUCATION

They will soon avoid challenges where they may fail and ‘look dumb’.

They won’t like to be seen to be working hard because ‘smart’ kids should ‘just get it’.

Instead, we should provide focused process praise that emphasises the child’s persistence or use of successful strategies. Children praised for working through difficult tasks want to show they can do so again.

They relish challenging situations, build their repertoire of problemsolving strategies and learn from their mistakes.

Here are some examples of effective praise: “I like the way you tried all kinds of strategies on that maths problem until you finally got it. It wasn’t easy, but you kept trying.”

“You studied effectively for your Humanities test. You read the material over several times, summarised it and tested yourself on it.

It really worked!”

FOCUS ON GETTING BETTER RATHER THAN BEING GOOD Learning is a journey. It is about growth and becoming the best we can be. Parents and teachers can help by providing children with challenges that are a little beyond their current capabilities.

Encourage them to take calculated risks, to be creative. When offering support, empower your child by suggesting strategies to try rather than providing solutions.

Celebrate your child’s ‘personal bests’ and guide them to reflect on their learning journey to identify the strategies that led to their success.

FAILURE, RESILIENCE AND THE POWER OF YET When children push their boundaries, there will inevitably be failures. Helping your child to learn from setbacks and to bounce back with new ideas will build their resilience.

Parents and teachers can help by remembering ‘the power of yet’.

Encourage your child to describe their failure by saying “I can’t do it …

YET”. This helps them to recognise that they are on a learning journey and will have opportunities to try again after more practice or with different strategies until they succeed.

PERSISTENCE Success in learning takes practice and perseverance, a passion for long-term goals. Parents and teachers can help by providing engaging learning activities with appropriate support and frequent opportunities for feedback and encouragement. Helping children to reflect on their progress towards their goals and to plan strategies for the next phase of their learning can also be helpful.

LESSONS FOR LIFE In helping your child to develop a growth mindset you will be laying the foundations for success at school and in life. Mindset can affect the quality and longevity of personal relationships. Being willing to work at relationships, learn from mistakes and to grow through difficult times helps bring people closer. In the workplace, a focus on continual improvement and a willingness to learn from constructive criticism are desirable traits.

NOTE TO SELF Developing a growth mindset isn’t something only relevant in early childhood. It is a life-long quest. Dweck says it is never too late for change, so why not try it on yourself, too, and see how it goes!

Mrs Cheryl Fillmore Deputy Head Secondary School Immanuel Lutheran College

1 Dweck, C. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. New York: Random House.

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JUMP ON BOARD SS A P G N I D R A O B CONNECT

PRIMARY

OPEN DAY

AOY M 3 2 Y A D S OL E H N C S WED E COAST GRAMMAR SUNSHIN

SEAT NO.

u/openday

ou Please book y

.a .scgs.qld.edu r seat at www

BOOK YOUR SEAT www.scgs.qld.edu.au/openday

Sunshine Coast Grammar School 372 Mons Road, Forest Glen Qld telephone 07 5445 4444 email enquire@scgs.qld.edu.au web www.scgs.qld.edu.au kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

A School of the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association

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25

EARLY EDUCATION

Nature-inspired INVESTIGATORS

Young children love to ask questions. It’s one of the ways in which they make sense of the world and their place in it. Questions are also a powerful tool for educators to promote children’s thinking and learning. They exercise their sense of agency and develop valuable and complex problem-solving skills.

When children are able to pose questions and investigate the answers, they feel in charge of their own learning. Inquiry-based approaches to learning harness this spirit of investigation, creating an interesting, engaging and meaningful curriculum that uses children’s interests and questions as a starting point for effective learning.

Sunshine Coast Grammar Early Learning Centre recognises inquiry as a central component in effective learning, not only in childhood but also throughout life. Active involvement in learning builds children’s understandings of concepts and the creative thinking and inquiry processes that are necessary for lifelong learning.

The Early Years Learning Framework highlights the importance of children becoming confident and involved learners through the development of ‘skills and processes such as problem solving, inquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating’.

An example of this type of inquiry-based learning during Term 1 saw Kindy children at Sunshine Coast Grammar Early Learning

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Centre discover a leaf looking bug in their playground. The children pointed out the green bug had a body which resembled a leaf but had big back legs, which got them all thinking about what it might eat, whether it had teeth and if it was a baby or adult bug. The children then went inside to find out more and discovered that the unusual leaf looking bug was a Katydid. The children then found out that it lives on leaves and grass and even watched a video on how it eats, moves and what sounds it makes. After conducting this research, the children were interested in knowing if the bug was still outside and when it was likely to go home.

Inquiry-based approaches reflect a view of the child as a constructor of their own knowledge and learning rather than simply as a passive recipient of someone else’s knowledge. This active view of the learning process reinforces the need for learning experiences that allow children the chance to follow their own interests and shape their own learning. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

BO FOROK IN YOUR

FREE ASSE

SS

MEN TODA T Y

DIVE IN TODAY TO START YOUR SWIMMING JOURNEY WITH US

The Grammar Swim School is now open. Offering classes for BABIES THROUGH TO PRE SQUAD LEVEL and for those ready to take the next step, squads are also available.

Each level has been PURPOSEFULLY DESIGNED to establish a skill set that will provide children a gift of life.

• Boutique size classes run Monday - Saturday • Experienced and caring instructors • Heated facilities - programs offered all year round Sunshine Coast Grammar Aquatic Centre, 372 Mons Road Forest Glen Please contact us on 07 5477 4499 or email aquatics@scgs.qld.edu.au

OPEN DAY

Swim School

15 months to 18 years

June 1, 9:30a m to 12:30pm

Curious...

P: 07 5442 3807 www.montessori.qld.edu.au

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MAY/JUNE 2018

27

As part of our Kindergarten program we offer specialist lessons in:

Music

Sport

Languages

Dance

Literacy

Offering quality care to babies and children from 6 weeks to school age.

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MAY/JUNE 2018

Grammar Early Learning Centre 372 Mons Road, Forest Glen QLD 4556 Phone 5453 7077 Email elc@scgs.qld.edu.au Web www.scgs.qld.edu.au

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

PARTY

ULTIMATE

PARTY GUIDE

CAKE YARD CAFÉ, GLENVIEW Cake Yard specialises in amazing custom order cake design. The café is also a great spot for kids’ tea parties and fun cupcake decorating. Custom cakes can be made to suit dietary requirements.

0478 682 363 info@cakeyardcafe.com CHEEKY LITTLE MONKEYS SOFT PLAY HIRE Cheeky Little Monkeys has a range of exciting, fun and safe sort play equipment for hire. As a fully mobile service, they will deliver and assemble all equipment to your location, and then disassemble and remove at the end.

0437 718 066 cheekylittlemonkeysplay.com FAIRIES TOADSTOOL TEA PARTIES The Fairies Toadstool’s Tea Parties bring the magical touch of fairies to any child’s special day, through 2 hours of pure fairy indulgence.

Fairy dust making, fairy tea and more.

0414 942 400 fairiestoadstool.com.au MISS DONNA THE CLOWN Miss Donna the Clown has been twisting balloons for more than 20 years. With three international awards for her balloon twisting designs, she uses magic, circus, and plenty of balloons to bring a smile to everyone face!

0411 177 341 missdonnatheclown.com.au

fun!

Kid’s parties can be a lot of But creating that special day for your bambino can also be a lot of stress! Don’t fret, we’ve put together everything you need to get your STARTED!

party

PARTIES AT HOME As the cheaper option, many families choose to hold their kid’s birthday parties at home. The pros are that you don’t need to hire a venue, but you do need to deal with the set up and tidy up! To ensure a home-based party is a success, many parents choose to bring in some form of entertainment, and there are stacks of great party entertainment available. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

HOME ENTERTAINMENT IDEAS BRICKS 4 KIDZ Bricks 4 Kidz® can provide a LEGO® themed birthday party that offers loads of non-stop brick-tastic fun with the world’s most popular toy.

They can come to you and create a set of activities to fit your selected party theme, or you can choose one of their many options such as: Superheroes, Mining & Crafting, Remote Control Mania, or a Despicable Birthday inspired by Minions.

0477 077 060 bricks4kidz.com.au/qld-sunshine-coast

PUMPED UP FUN Helping you to create successful and memorable events with safe, high quality amusements. From mini jeeps and waterslides to jumping castles and Zorb balls, they deliver fun for all ages to your next event!

0405 541 220 pumpedupfun.com.au SLUMBER SISTERS Slumber Sisters will come to your house and set up a magical slumber party for your little one.

Once the party is over, they will pack everything down and take it away for you. A simple, special way to create a party to remember.

0421 101 495 slumbersisters.com.au TWIRLS ‘N’ SWIRLS FACE PAINTING Great face painting at an affordable price, Twirls n Swirls Face painting has your next event covered. Bookings are available for any kind of event, from functions to festivals, and of course kids’ parties!

0407 884 469 twirlsnswirlsfacepainting@outlook.com MAY/JUNE 2018

29

PARTY AUSTRALIA ZOO Spread over 100 acres and with more than 1,200 animals, Australia Zoo is a ‘wild’ venue for any birthday adventure!

There is a range of group booking discounts available and plenty to keep the kids entertained: feed the kangaroos, see the croc show, and visit Tiger Temple.

If your child is a member of the birthday club, they can get in free on their birthday!

(07) 5436 2000 australiazoo.com.au

PARTIES AT A VENUE Though it comes at a price, hiring a venue and having the planning (and mess) managed for you can often be the preferred choice. Most venues also provide catering, so check ahead of time on any allergy provisions, in case some guests have special dietary requirements.

ADVENTURE EMPIRE Adventure Empire offers birthday parties perfect for little adventurers of all ages. Party package includes two hours of indoor rock climbing and bouldering. They can organise catering too, or you can bring your own!

Minimum group size of 10.

(07) 5391 1722 adventureempire.com.au AQUA FUN PARK, TWIN WATERS Aqua Fun Park at the Novotel Twin Waters Resort is a wonderful setting for birthday parties. Undercover seating overlooking the lagoon is provided, and BBQs are available for free. For a stress-free party, they also offer a catered party option.

0423 110 000 aquafunpark.com.au AUSSIE WORLD Birthday parties at Aussie World are super easy, all you need to do is bring the guests and they will do the rest! Choose from two party packages – either unlimited rides for three hours, or unlimited rides all day. Parties come with party food and a reserved table for your use. They can even supply the cake!

(07) 5494 5444 aussieworld.com.au

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MAY/JUNE 2018

CHIPMUNKS, SIPPY DOWNS Chipmunks offers a variety of birthday themes to suit every little adventurer.

Parties include playground access, one-hour dedicated party room, and a special party menu that comes with a variety of additional options including adult platters, cakes and extra treats.

(07) 5438 8870 chipmunks.com.au GINGER FACTORY There’s stacks of fun and entertainment to be had at the Ginger Factory! The team at the Ginger Factory will look after all aspects of the party. You can select from a choice of party times, venues and options.

1800 067 686 gingerfactory.com.au MAROOCHY SURF SCHOOL A fantastic way to get the kids outdoors, the Maroochy Surf School coaches will entertain the kids with fun games, challenges and learning to surf in a safe environment.

0410 345 922 maroochysurfschool.com.au NOOSA AQUATIC CENTRE The NAC has plenty to keep kids active, engaged and having a blast. You can also hire private spaces on weekends, and organise catering from the Poolside Café, leaving you nothing to worry about!

(07) 5448 0288 noosaaquaticcentre.com.au

SEA LIFE, SUNSHINE COAST Make your child’s birthday splash-tacular with a party at Sea Life! Packages include all day unlimited entry to Sea Life Sunshine Coast, reserved seating at the Seal Show, birthday lunch at the Octopus Garden Café. You can also add on a fully guided tour of Sea Life with an Education Officer.

(07) 5458 6226 underwaterworld.com.au THE BIG BOING Put some bounce into your kid’s birthday party at the Big Boing! Packages include one hour of jumping, 45 minutes at a dedicated party table, and a choice of menu options.

Minimum 10 people per party.

(07) 5493 6015 thebigboing.com.au WHITE RIDGE FARM Why not your next birthday with a unique 2-hour farm experience?

With hay rides, a farm tour to hand-feed all the animals including the amazing llamas and alpacas, an adventure playground and trampoline and under cover area with BBQ and picnic facilities, it’s a wonderful experience for everyone.

0417 774 559 whiteridgefarm.com.au WILDLINGS FOREST SCHOOL Looking for a birthday party with a difference? Birthday parties at Wildling Forest School are perfect for your wild child!

Get your child and their besties outdoors, challenging themselves with new life skills and making memories as they light fires with flints, build cubbies and rafts and have good old-fashioned fun together! You can choose from a range of workshops and themes, minimum 10 children. wildlingsforestschool.com

NOOSA TENPIN & LASER TAG Noosa Tenpin & Laser Tag offer a range of kids’ birthday party packages, with several menu options, and either two or three Laser Tag missions for all guests. There’s also bowling and plenty of arcade action to keep everyone entertained.

(07) 5449 8555 noosatenpin.com.au

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FREE

ballet shoes for every new enrolment

! k c o r t a h t s ie t r a p e m for ho Huge range for memorable parties!

Zorb balls • Foam Pit • Velcro Dartball • Mini Jeeps Obstacle Course • Twin Lane Inflatable Slide DIY carnival food • Outdoor Party rooms Jumping Castles • Gaming Arcade table Sporting Clubs School Fetes Community Events Commercial Hire Private Parties Team Building

info@pumpedupfun.com.au • www.pumpedupfun.com.au Phone 0405 541 220

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

The Sunshine Coast’s most loved introduction to Classical Ballet for toddlers & preschoolers

Programs

Locations

• Cherubs 16 months – 2.5 years • Mummy and Me 2.5 years – 3.5 years • Kinderballet 3 years – 5 years • Next Steps 5 years – 8 years • Babies Jazz and Cheer 3 years – 5 years • Junior Jazz and Cheer 5 years – 8 years Warana, Maroochydore & Peregian Beach.

Fun & imaginative classes • No uniforms/costumes to make or buy Limited class sizes • Affordably priced • Make-up classes available NO ENROLMENT FEE

0405 478 909 www.danceempiresunshinecoast.com.au miranda@danceempiresunshinecoast.com.au

MAY/JUNE 2018

31

PARTY

PLAY IT

SAFE

“It’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye,” as the famous saying goes!

Planning and hosting a party can be so exciting that we fall into the trap of forgetting a few basics. Julie Smedley, Director from Pumped Up Fun, shares four essential tips to ensure a happy, stress-free event without any tears from avoidable injuries.

1. Inflatable fun comes in all shapes and sizes these days and it’s one of the best ways to keep children safe whilst they play. But avoid cheap non-commercial products; book a professional amusement hire company.

2. Even if the party is at home, consider booking a Blue Card accredited supervisor to manage the kids. Firstly it allows you and the other parents to relax and enjoy yourselves. Secondly it provides peace of mind that an

emergency situation will be managed quickly and effectively. And thirdly, noone needs to feel like the Fun Police.

The Supervisor manages how many, how long, how big and how well they behave in a friendly, yet assertive way.

3. Insurance is mandatory as a safety net. All reputable inflatable fun providers should have a minimum of $20million in PLI. 4. Don’t settle for less when it comes to safety equipment and procedures. You should be provided with a written risk

assessment so you’re aware of the hazards and how they’ve been managed to ensure your little ones are in safe hands. Blowers should be cordoned off, safety switches fitted, safety mats used at entry/exit points and leads tagged and covered.

Knowing the basics of playing it safe will ensure you choose a reliable and professional supplier, who will not cut corners when looking after your precious children. Ensure your next party is memorable for all the right reasons!

Create a special day for your little fairy The Fairies Toadstool Birthday Tea Parties bring beauty, sweetness and the magical touch of fairies to any child’s special day.

Ignite the magic of fairies and pirates in your child and create many happy moments and memories for you and your children to share.

• Each birthday package includes fairy games and prizes, fairy dust making, fairy make up and tattoos along with party bag for each guest.

• Parents can relax and enjoy the special occasion, whilst the children are transported to a world of dreams and make-believe.

MOBILE FAIRY GROTTO FILLED WITH BUTTERFLIES, FLOWERS AND TOADSTOOLS.

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PARTY

TOP TIPS ON HOW TO ORGANISE A PARTY Sarah and Amanda from Slumber Sisters know a LOT about organising the perfect party!

Here are their top tips for party success:

• Set a date a minimum of six weeks prior, and have guests RSVP two weeks in advance.

• Have a specific time for the party – for example 1–4pm – giving yourself plenty of time to set up and tidy up. Time younger kids’ parties around sleep times, to make sure they have a good time! For 2–5 year olds, morning parties work best. For over fives, choose anytime that suits the family schedule.

• Send invites as soon as you set a date, via email or Facebook.

• Ask for allergies or special dietary requirements on the invite so you know ahead of time whether you need to cater for something different.

• Keep a list of invited guests so you can easily tick them off when they RSVP. • Do your grocery shopping online and have it arrive the day before to ensure freshness.

• Always have water and sunscreen available if the party is to be outside.

• Finger food is best for kids’ parties; kids don’t eat much when they are busy and excited! If you are doing a BBQ, get smallsized things to save on wastage – such as small dinner rolls and mini sausages.

• Kids love games so dedicate a large time for pass the parcel, pin the tail on the donkey, statues, musical chairs. (Though be careful of prizes that could be choking hazards for kids under 3).

• Theming a party is always fun! Colour themes are great and easy for to organise – just pick a colour or shade and go wild!

Match your paper plates, napkins, balloons and accessories. Look around for deals online!

• Sleepovers require completely different planning to a day party. Have plenty of healthy snacks and water to make sure kids don’t stay up too late. Popcorn and movies are a great way to get kids to settle before bed. Little touches such as matching PJs are a great, and are a very simple way of making it an extra-special night. It’s something we are going to add to our slumber party range soon!

Slumber Sisters help you to create your own magical slumber party for your little one. They will come to your house and set up a themed party for your little one, once it is over they will pack everything down and take it away!

Find them at slumbersisters.com.au.

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PARTY

HOW TO HOST A SUGAR-FREE BIRTHDAY PARTY Author of Modern Dilemma Kids and Sugar, Emma Wilson shares her tips on how to host a without losing any of the fun!

sugar-free party

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I nstead of filling pinatas with lollies, fill them with plastic game makers or reusable fake coins and hand out one really cool prize at the end. s an alternative to sugar-laden party food, provide sushi A or savoury chips, popcorn or fresh fruit. Most of the time kids don’t even notice there’s no lollies! A colourful tablecloth, colourful balloons and streamers serve as festive reminders this is a special day. ids love homemade cakes just as much as (and usually K more than) one you’ve commissioned a gourmet chef to make. So, opt for a simple homemade cake where you can control the ingredients. Don’t feel pressured to present a Pinterest-worthy creation! One handmade with love, along with all its bumps and lumps, will be adored by your child. arty bags really are optional. If you must, there are P plenty of fun alternatives to filling them with sugar treats. You could give a little pot with a cactus or plant, or a decorated paper bag with a few stickers, a yo-yo, cute pencils or a toy. Or you could have the guests decorate rock pets, or they could make dream catchers, a bracelet, bath bombs or other craft to take home.

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S erve water, and only water. Kids often don’t realise they’re drinking it and they don’t feel they’re missing out. You can use colourful paper straws, colourful cups or reusable mini-water bottles to make it more festive. elp our future generations manage their expectations H by building in a little disappointment to your party.

Rather than have a lolly in each layer of pass the parcel, why not only provide one prize for each game? How are they going to manage relationships or team or work rejection if they’ve always been the winner? e refreshing. What would happen if you lived by your B own compass? If you only served one type of food, like just a sushi platter or just cheese platters? If you served vegetarian or made the simplest cake you can? You can be the change. Demonstrate that kids’ parties aren’t a competition about who has the biggest and the best, but about getting people together, celebrating and feeling part of a community.

2 brothers, 365 days, no sugar.

Modern Dilemma Kids and Sugar is the story of one family’s shared challenge of removing sugar from their diet.

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MAY/JUNE 2018

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10 SEATS 10 STORIES 10 PARKS talk read sing

Sunshine Coast Libraries invites you to , , and on Sunshine Coast Council’s Story Seats.

If you’ve been along to your local park recently, you may have noticed a collection of colourful seats popping up. Over the last few months Sunshine Coast Libraries has been rolling out the Story Seats project across the region, installing 10 seats in 10 parks as a visible way of promoting literacy to families.

Funded by the Queensland State Government initiative First 5 Forever, the Story Seats are purpose-built seats that contain images from popular Australian children’s picture book titles.

Now complete, families are invited to explore the magic of storytelling and engage in active play, singing and reading at the purpose-built seats.

Reinforcing the message, ‘the first five years last a lifetime’, the seats provide a fun and engaging experience for everyone who comes across them.

“Story Seats were created to engage and promote literacy to families across the region in popular, highusage parks,” explains Karen Gawen, Young People’s Services Supervisor from Sunshine Coast Council.

“By bringing books into outdoor recreational areas, parents and caregivers are reminded that they can read to children anywhere, anytime.”

The seats were created to hold a number of adults and children, to surround them with words and images and to ensure a cosy, comfortable area to talk, read, sing and play together.

The front cover and two internal pages of each story are strategically situated on the seats to encourage literacy and visual literacy.

In total, eight publishing houses, ten authors and three illustrators have taken part in the project.

play

WHERE TO FIND THE STORY SEATS • The Children who loved books, Peter Carnavas; New Frontier Publishing Russell Park, Montville • Grug, Ted Prior. Simon & Schuster Muller Park, Bli Bli • Home in the Rain, Bob Graham; Walker Books Maroochy Lion’s Park, Maroochydore • Mad Magpie, Gregg Dreise; Magabala Books Power Memorial Park, Mudjimba • The Big Fish, Pamela Allen; Penguin/Random House Shelly Beach Park, Shelly Beach • Bertha and Bear, Christine Sharp; University of Queensland Press Kenilworth Town Park, Kenilworth • Where is the Green Sheep?, Mem Fox/Judy Horacek; Penguin/Random House Grahame Stewart Park, Currumundi • I’m a Dirty Dinosaur, Janeen Brian/Ann James; Penguin/Random House Pioneer Park, Landsborough • Jump and Shout!, Mike Dumbleton/Peter Carnavas; Little Book Press Brightwater Community Lake Park, Brightwater • Josephine Wants to Dance, Jackie French/Bruce Whatley; Allen & Unwin Nelson Park, Alexandra Headland

First 5 Forever is a universal family literacy program aimed at supporting stronger language and literacy environments for young children from 0–5 years and their families. First 5 Forever directly supports parents and primary caregivers to be confident as their child’s first and most important teacher, and provides parents with increased access to resources they need through public libraries.

First 5 Forever initiative was implemented in 2015 due to alarming statistics in regard to childhood literacy: • The Australian Early Development Census data for 2012 shows that 26.2% of Queensland children are developmentally vulnerable or at risk on one or more developmental domains – including language and cognitive skills. Queensland ranks sixth behind the other states.

• 36% of Queensland parents of 0–2-year-olds do not regularly read to their children or participate in informal learning.

• 52% of Queensland parents of 3–8-year-olds do not regularly read to their children or participate in informal learning.

Story Seat maps can be found at any Sunshine Coast Library or by visiting library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au. So, grab a map, head off on an adventure to find all 10 story seats! On your adventures, take a picture with the seats and share on social media using the hashtag #storyseat.

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WELLBEING

POWERFUL WORDS TO empower CHILDREN Adults often have little awareness of the impact of their spoken word – particularly when identifying which words can either or their child.

empower disempower

With just a little careful focus, any parent can learn to select words which can lead to their child feeling fulfilled and inspired to create a life they love as adult. The added bonus is that it may actually lead to the parent feeling more positive and uplifted as well.

The new generation of children, known as millennium children, are more sensitive, emotional and reactive. They require ‘care’ and parenting that fits their sensitivities and personalities. Part of that care is choosing the right language and words. By knowing how words and language can affect a child a parent will be able to assist a child to develop in mind, body and spirit which will leave them feeling empowered.

DISEMPOWERING WORDS These are words that feel limited, unenthusiastic and result in arguments and challenges. These words include:  should  must  ought to  need  have to  got to  must These words leave a child feeling guilt, distrust and punishment.

As a result, a child may not feel positive about themselves or feel encouraged to try anything new.

POWER WORDS Power words empower and encourage children to work out their problems. This supports them to become self-responsible and assist them take positive action with the knowledge that they can achieve anything they desire.

Power words are also a great tool for a parent to use when asking a child to do their homework, clean their room, play lovingly and share their emotions.

Power words include: ü want ü like ü will ü feel ü can ü choose

All children, especially teenagers, love these words! When offered power words, there is a feeling of choice, a feeling of anything is possible and an innate knowing in a child that all will be OK. Examples include: “If you want to play on the trampoline, then put your shoes away.”

“How would you like to clean your room?”

“Yes, you can have play time once you make your bed.”

“Choose to eat your dinner first then you can play.”

EMPOWERING WORDS ABOUT WEALTH Take the everyday concept of money and wealth as an example of language that can be empowering or disempowering. How many times when you were a child did you hear the words ‘we can’t afford it’?

These words would not seem like they can do any damage, but they do. The simple phrase ‘can’t afford’ can leave children feeling like there is not enough or there is a shortage in life. They may also teach a child not to look for wealth and abundance in life.

Using a language of wealth however, will empower both parents and children. Examples include:  Life is an opportunity.  Look at the abundance everywhere – see the trees with lots of leaves.  Taxes that are paid pay for all the roads and schools.  There is always enough.  It is not about asking how, it is about knowing it always works out.

This language allows a child to access their creative right brain and see the wealth in all things. This will then set them up to expect an abundant future.

PARENTS AND POWER WORDS Children learn by watching their parents will subliminally learn and practice power words. When we delete the ‘should’ and ‘have to’ and replace them with empowering words the whole family will invite more fun, ease and happiness into their life.

Jean Sheehan is the founder of Millennium Education and Millennium Children®. A former nurse, she is an award-winning expert on child empowerment. Using revolutionary and effective techniques, Jean works with parents and teachers to assist them to consider all aspects of children’s care including the physical mental, emotional, chemical and spiritual. She is also the author of The Millennium Children® and Empowering Millennium Children®. For more information on Jeans events, please see millenniumeducation.com. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

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WELLBEING

LESS IS MORE: A guide to calming your home

By Rachell Kingsbury. Mum, Guidance Counsellor, Psychologist & Neuropsychologist

I don’t know about you, but I feel like today’s world of parenting is about trying to constantly do more and be more. Families are becoming busier, and with that, it would seem more stressed. In paradox, it is common to hear parents ask: what can I do to help my children to be less stressed and to promote calm in my home? Perhaps the answer lies in doing not more.

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USE LESS ELECTRICITY It is a common occurrence to walk into a darkened classroom during the afternoon at our school, with turning off lights being one of ways to bringing calm to the students. Likewise, turning off overheads, screens, televisions, music, etc. in the home can alleviate the tension of the day and help children settle quicker into sleep.

DIGITALLY ABANDON Unsurprisingly, research shows we’re spending more time engaged in social media. The negative association of digitally distracted parents ranges from reduced concentration, to risk, neglect, potential indications for autism, and so forth. What is surprising is that research also indicates that we’re experiencing greater negative versus positive emotions when using social media. Limiting your social media may circumvent becoming an unnecessarily grumpy and distracted parent.

WORK LESS FROM HOME The perfect recipe for a ‘day from hell’ always includes the ingredients of 1) me trying to complete deadline work, whilst 2) attempting to simultaneously parent. ‘Visible but not available’ as a parenting framework does not work in my family. Though there are times when

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this is inevitable, the reality is: constant interruptions by children mean you work less efficiently and parent less presently = stressful for you and stressful for them. If possible, accessing formal or informal care for short periods to enable you to work more effectively can be better than a drawn-out day of trying to do both things poorly. If possible, letting one parent takeover to give you a couple of hours of uninterrupted work time can help. For me, personally, if I’m down to the wire, working from 4am–6am (before the kids wake) will bring down my work-related stress before the parenting day begins.

SAY ‘YES’ LESS Give yourself permission to put you and your family first by saying ‘yes’ to less. Some days, simply cancelling something non-essential can immediately reduce the busyness within yourself and your family.

YOU DON’T NEED TO DO EVERYTHING RIGHT NOW I seem to be in the minority with not trying to build a law firm, train for a triathlon, romantically date my partner weekly, grow all our consumables organically, look like I haven’t had children, as well as be the best mum in the universe to a 10-week old baby. I’m at a loss as to whether today’s motherhood expectations are self-generated or kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

externally-pressured, but whatever the cause – please stop trying to do everything right now. Chose one or two things that genuinely make you feel like you parent in a less stressful manner, and focus on that.

NEGOTIATE A HOMEWORK BREAK For families of school-aged kids, homework represents possibly the most stressful way to end your day. Each year, I enable parents to negotiate homework breaks at school. The benefits of merely reading to your kids are well established. Likewise, encouraging ‘rest days’ at the end of terms can help overtired children to restore and families to regroup.

LIMIT EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Similarly, loading children up with daily and/or multiple extracurricular activities is a common catalyst for stressed out children and time-poor families. School really does provide ample learning in the early years. Beyond that, chose one or two extra-curriculars a year, and be willing to let them go if you feel like you and your child are more stressed than benefited by the additional learning.

STRUCTURE LESS Recent research shows that children’s executive function (e.g. attention, concentration, planning, organisation, emotional functioning, and complex play skills) develops better in unstructured play environments.

So, relax mamas! Grab your best friend and a coffee, and let kids do what kids do best: run like maniacs through parks and playgrounds.

GO OUT LESS When given the choice, my kids will always opt for a home day every time. Modern parents, like myself, tend to think that engaging our children in constant, external stimulation must be positive for them.

Some of my most stressful days have been when I’ve failed to hear that my kids just want to be at home.

Meditation for kids

In such an overstimulating, busy world, meditation can be a great way to bring a little calm into your child’s day. Michelle Eckles, Founder and Teacher at Meditation Sunshine Coast, believes teaching kids this life skill can enhance their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

“From an early age, kids are now bombarded with technology, school work and stress. They are so overstimulated they often don’t get quiet time,” Michelle says. “And when they do, they can become anxious because they feel like they should be doing something!”

Kids’ meditation classes can teach them that sitting in stillness is not only good for you but essential for our mental and physical health. It also gives children coping skills for stress, and teaches them to pause rather than to react.

“I teach them a variety of techniques and exercises that they can then go away and apply in their own lives. Some might use it for getting to sleep, navigating friendships, performing in sport or preparing for school exams,” Michelle explains. “And it’s important to give them these tools before they reach high school and everything becomes compounded.”

Benefits of meditation for kids: • Help them let go of restless energy.

• Aid in relaxation and sleep.

• Increase their level of self-awareness.

• Teach them how to remain calm.

• Relieve stress and increase ability to cope with stressful situations.

• Calm excessive thinking and mind chatter.

• Give them downtime for themselves.

• Develop compassion for themselves and for others around them.

• Help them to be more present, not worrying about the past or the future.

• Get to know themselves better, instilling contentment and confidence.

Find out more, as well as details on kids’ meditation classes, at meditationsunshinecoast.com.au

WORRY LESS Easier said than done, but with some research suggesting that our children’s emotional connectedness to mum commences in the third trimester, it is not surprising that when we feel worried/stressed/ anxious/sad – so do they.

LOWER YOUR SELF-EXPECTATIONS My most overused quote that I borrow daily from Circle of Security is: “You only have to be good enough 30% of the time to make great kids”. Good enough can be the perfect way to reduce your family’s stress.

At the end of last year, when everyone was at the end of their tether, I grabbed fish and chips and headed to a free, outdoor water park. That dinner was good enough and that swim in the pool was a good enough bath. No meal prep, no table manners, no sitting still, no dishes to be done. Good enough was way better than ideal that night.

Mindful awareness practices, techniques, tips and resources to cultivate physical, mental and emotional wellbeing

SCHEDULE LESS I’ve learnt this lesson more than once. It is perhaps my best less is more example. I was visiting my home town and had thought that setting up two, back-to-back, group play dates was a good idea in terms of catching up with as many old friends with children as possible. It was not a good idea. At the end of that day we collectively couldn’t have been more over it. I ditched everything but my hotel key card, headed to the beach – no phone, no toys, no money, no company, no distractions, and if your children are like my children, no clothes! Just me, my sons and the sun setting on Noosa Beach.

I watched them run, laugh and importantly, unwind and reset. And so then could I. With absolutely nothing – the perfect example of less being so much more: to restore our family calm. kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

∞ Introduction to meditation programs & workshops ∞ ∞ Casual classes ∞ Individual sessions ∞ Meditation for kids ∞ ∞ Meditative art workshops ∞ Online shop & resources ∞

0438 915 830 michelle@meditationsunshinecoast.com.au meditationsunshinecoast.com.au

It i s i n t he st ill ness t hat we fi nd peace, acceptance, compassion, clarity, wi sdom and ourselves

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WELLBEING

YOGA for kids

Children enjoy practicing yoga poses and the feeling of connection that yoga helps to create, just like we do! Yoga and mindfulness can help children release feelings of frustration and anxiety as well as develop skills to cope with stressful situations, and practicing yoga together is a great way to connect as a family. It’s important to make the sessions really interactive and not too long. Even just five minutes a day can make a very big impact in a child’s overall outlook and healthy development.

TREE POSE Tree Pose is a wonderful pose to practice together. In addition to promoting balance, it also encourages strengthening family bonds. Standing side-by-side holding hands, stand on one foot and place the other foot on any part of the opposite leg. It’s even more empowering to repeat the affirmation, ‘I am Strong like a Tree’.

“I am strong like a tree”

GRATITUDE MEDITATION Planting the seeds of gratitude encourages our youngsters to think on a more global scale. Sit with your legs crossed (you can choose to hold hands or sit with hands on knees, palms facing up) and ask your youngster to think of one thing that they are grateful or happy for! They may wish to share this with you or keep it to themselves, but many will wish to share it!

You can take this mindful exercise one step further by asking them to create a piece of artwork to go with it.

RAINBOW POSE We can create a rainbow with our bodies!

Sit on the floor facing your partner with legs out straight in front of you, feet touching your partners. Hold hands and lift your legs up together in the sky. Not only does this pose feel great, but it also reinforces cooperation and focus!

Folk Yoga Studio offers a range of classes, workshops and events for all ages, based on movement, creativity, mindfulness and family bonding. folkyogastudio.com.au 42

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HEALTH

HEALTHCARE FOR Kids

From dietetics to chiro, speech to psychology, there is an array of extra available to little ones today. But what do they all do, and how do you access the right service when you need them?

health services

As parents, all we want is for our little ones to be happy and healthy.

Thankfully there has been a huge shift in services to assist us in that quest over the last 20 years, with wellness centres, preventative medicine and government rebates now available to families for many therapies.

DENTAL CARE Top of the kids’ healthcare list for most parents is dental, and with good reason. Though baby teeth fall out, instilling good dental care practices in little ones is essential for future oral health. As well, baby teeth are critical for speech and jaw development. “A lot of people dont realise, if baby teeth get decayed it can have an impact on their adult teeth," Stephanie Taylor, People and Development Coach at Avenue Dental explains.

To ensure good dental health, parents should help a child brush their teeth until around eight years old. “Until eight, children don’t have the dexterity to brush properly themselves. So, until that age, Mum or Dad should still get in there and brush with them at least once a day.”

Stephanie recommends taking children to the dentist from around two years old, or younger if any concerns..“We usually say the younger kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

the better!” she says. “This way a trip to the dentist is familiar and we can develop a positive association with the experience.”

Initially, these visits just involve a ride in the chair, a quick count and check of their teeth and a chat with Mum or Dad if there are any concerns. “At this age, it’s just a fun place where we can build their confidence up and hopefully we don’t need to intervene.”

When choosing a dentist, look for one that prides themselves on working with children. “We have many secret tricks and techniques for ensuring a child is always happy! It’s very important to us, to ensure a child doesn’t have a life-long fear of the dentist.” Also, in case treatment is needed down the track, look for a surgery that covers most things at the one place. “We have most things covered at our practice – we have an orthodontist, an oral health therapist that specialises in children, and many others each with their own specialist areas such as root canals, implants, crowns, nervous patients.”

There is a means tested Child Health Dental Care Benefit available from Medicare for children between 2 and 17 years old. For those that don’t qualify, many dental surgeries have discounted rates for kids, and most private health funds provide full cover for children. Check with your fund.

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HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC CARE Chiropractic care is a natural form of health care that uses spinal adjustments to correct misalignments and restore proper function to the nervous system.

A child can see a chiropractor from birth. “Babies can be born with musculoskeletal issues which may go undetected, such as a tight muscles and a sore neck," Dr Scott Baker from Children’s Sunshine Chiropractic explains. “This may result in babies not breastfeeding properly, they might become irritable, unsettled, favour one side, dislike being changed or become upset during tummy time.”

“We look at the musculoskeletal aspect – checking necks, backs and any muscle tightness, then use gentle chiropractic techniques to release. Without that pain and soreness, babies are often more settled, able to look both ways and able to breastfeed happier.”

Chiropractic care may also help with older kids who have sore backs, necks, headaches, or injuries from sports or falling off bikes or play equipment. “If we aren’t feeling good because we are stiff or sore, it may affect concentration and overall happiness. Chiropractic care can get rid of the musculoskeletal soreness, which will generally make kids happier.”

Chiropractic care for babies use different techniques to that for adults. “There’s a lack of information out there – everyone thinks of cracking bones but with babies that doesn’t happen at all! We use a very unique technique for babies which is very gentle, often only as much pressure as you can place on your eyeball.”

Scott recommends that every baby should at least be checked by a chiropractor. “One research article estimated up to 73% of babies may be born with musculoskeletal problems, so it’s worth at least having an assessment done to see if there is any stiffness or soreness1.

Sorting that out may make a huge difference.”

There’s no need for a referral for chiropractic care, and costs may be claimed through private health insurance. Check with your fund.

SPEECH PATHOLOGY Far more than simply teaching vocabulary, a speech pathologist works on communication as a whole. From articulating sounds correctly and helping children follow instructions, to non-verbal communication and those who have trouble swallowing food and drink, a speech pathologist can work across a range of cases and ages.

“We can assess and treat anyone who experiences difficulty with their language and communication skills,” says Liz Garcia, Speech Pathologist from Beyond Words Therapy. "We see children who present with a single articulation error to children with disabilities who require support across a range of communication areas. We work closely with the client and their family to find out exactly where their difficulties lie and determine how we can best support them to can get their needs met.”

Children may see to a speech pathologist from birth, or in many cases are referred Far more than by their school. “We support children who simply teaching come to us after receiving a diagnosis at vocabulary, a birth, and for these children it's about speech pathologist making sure the environment they are raised in is rich and supportive, so we often works on work closely with the parents,” Liz explains. communication “Teachers also refer children to us when as a whole. they get to Kindy and a delay is noticed. A child might be behind in reading, or show delays in social skills, speech or language skills. In this case, we work closely with the child and support the teachers in the classroom to best support the child and aid their transition to school.”

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A speech pathologist can also help with children who need alternative ways to communicate as a result of their disability.

“We work with low-tech and high-tech devices as alternative communication systems, such as sign language, symbols and pictures, and iPads,” says Liz. Speech pathology has come a long way in recent years. “With more funding options available, speech pathology services have become more accessible,” says Liz. “There is currently a huge push on early intervention as more and more research shows that a child’s early experiences literally shape the way their young brain develops. This is why it is so important act straight away if you see any signs that your child’s communication development may be delayed.”

You don't need a referral to access a speech pathologist. “A concerned parent is the only referral we need!” Liz says. “You can get a referral from your GP, paediatrician, or teacher, but you can also walk in the door and refer yourself.”

There are also various funding options available including private health insurance, Medicare, and the NDIS may also cover some cases (the NDIS is being rolled out across the region over the next 12 months).

For more information on speech pathology including, fact sheets, communication milestones, resources, book of the year awards and more, visit the Speech Pathology Australia website (speechpathologyaustralia.org.au) or contact your local speech pathologist.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY There are many reasons a child might require the support of an Occupational Therapist (OT). The most well-known is for helping children with fine motor skills and hand–eye coordination. However, an OT can also help in many other ways such as sensory processing and sensory regulation, concentration difficulties, coordination struggles, developmental delays, feeding difficulties, friendship and social skills, and simply helping them learn to play. An OT can also work with those children diagnosed with ASD and ADHD, helping them with self-care skills, learning and play skills, as well as work with parents to establish a supportive home environment.

OT services are covered on the NDIS. You can access an OT through your GP, or simply find one in your local area, a referral is not necessary.

PAEDIATRIC CARE With a deeper understanding of health conditions that affect all children under the ages of 18 years old, a paediatrician is often invited by a GP to assist when there is more diagnostic information required.

“Your GP is able to help with multiple general childhood health issues.

However, a paediatrician may become involved for more complex matters such as allergies, diabetes, and epilepsy,” says Dr Caroline Hughes, Paediatrician and founder of Nurture Paediatrics. “Some infants are known to have major health conditions before birth as a result of investigations performed during pregnancy. Some infants kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

are born too early, some children are not achieving their milestones in speech and language or fine motor skills. I assess these children to determine if there is a serious cause and how to help them achieve their age appropriate goals. I often ask allied health colleagues such as physiotherapists, speech and language pathologists and occupational therapists to help,” explains Caroline.

A paediatrician can help with a range of health issues such as: baby checks, weight or growth concerns, feeding issues, sleeping problems, concerns regarding a child’s development or behaviour, learning disabilities, diagnosis and management of autism spectrum disorder, children with disabilities, paediatric allergies, diabetes, bed wetting and more.

The cost of a paediatrician varies between services, with a portion rebated via Medicare, and you can choose the paediatrician you visit.

“Parents should know that if they don’t feel comfortable or are unsatisfied with the care their child is receiving, they have the right to request transfer of care to another paediatrician,” says Caroline. “Overall however, parents need to choose a specialist who they feel comfortable with, someone who will take the time to listen and understand. Some paediatric patients will require long-term care into adulthood.”

If you have any Patients will need a referral from a GP concerns with your that is valid for 12 months. A specialist may also refer but the referral is only child’s nutrition, a valid for three months. Without a Dietitian can help current referral, patients will not be able with a range of to claim the Medicare benefit. feeding and diet concerns.

DIET AND NUTRITION If you have any concerns with your child’s nutrition, a dietitian can help with a range of feeding and diet concerns. “I see lots of families with a range of issues,” explains Deb Blakley, Dietitian and Nutritionist from Kids Dig Food. “One of the main reasons for referrals is picky or fussy eating. But I also see children with more severe eating difficulties possibly linked with sensory difficulties, or a diagnosis such as ADHD and autism. I’m also increasingly seeing children referred for weight concerns (over or underweight), and nutritional concerns around allergies and food intolerances,” Deb says.

A dedicated children’s psychology practice for all emotional and behavioural difficulties and challenges.

Including family relationships, parenting and developmental disorders.

Irlen Syndrome screening (a visual processing difficulty affecting reading, academic performance, concentration and behaviour) is also available.

Early intervention to achieve happy, resilient and successful teens and adults.

Any concerns get in touch: Dr Jill Cumberbatch Clinical Psychologist

8 Pikki Street, Maroochydore e: info@pikkistreet.com t: 07 5452 9804 f: 07 5452 7599 www.dandelionpsychology.com.au

BSc. Psychol. D.Clin.Psychol.

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“As well, nutrition is constantly evolving; the recommendations are always changing and there is a lot of conflicting information out there. So, many parents come simply to have a clear understanding of what to do.”

An experienced paediatric Dietitian will look at the whole feeding environment. What children are eating, how food is prepared, what the family routines are, and then work with you to help you feed your family in the way you want to feed them.

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HEALTH needs to consider how you actually feed your family, rather than simply telling you what to do.” says Deb. “There’s no point in someone drawing up complicated recipes and plans if you don’t like to cook!”

Though you might already know what you’d like your child to be eating, having an expert look from the outside and help with the ‘how’ of feeding can be incredibly helpful. “There can be a lot of confusion around things like allergies and intolerances. A dietitian can work with parents to identify problem foods, additives or food chemicals. We then expand the food range as much as we can around those results, to still give that child a varied, healthy diet.”

If you are finding mealtimes stressful; if feeding a child is beginning to affect family relationships or you have concerns about a child’s growth, then seeing a dietitian experienced in family feeding may be beneficial.

PSYCHOLOGY

Today, there is plenty of mental health Mental health in support available for kids who need it. these earlier Young people aged 12-25 can access years is incredibly headspace – a low cost service that important. provides early intervention mental health services. This can be accessed via a website (eheadspace.org.au), phone line (1800 650 890) and via the many headspace centres located across the region.

For kids under 12 years old, seeing a specialist face-to-face is helpful.

“Mental health in these earlier years is incredibly important.

Sometimes it is difficult to notice changes in mood or behaviour given how busy family life is, but it is good if we can take a bit of time to reflect on how our kids are going. There could be many underlying reasons that might be causing a change in behaviour,” Dr Jill Cumberbatch, Clinical Psychologist at Dandelion Clinical Psychology for Children explains.

“It could be the environment – school or home – social relationships, bullying, developmental issues, learning struggles, transitions or change or family breakdown to name a few possible causes for a child to struggle.

There are many things that can accumulate and result in emotional difficulty which can lead to the change in behaviour that we see.

“It is so very important that we accurately understand why a child is struggling so we know how we can resolve it.”

Changes to look out for are shifts in sleep patterns, withdrawal, emotional meltdowns or lashing out at others, getting into trouble at school, or just seeming to be more troubled by everyday occurrences.

Jill believes that early intervention is key. “The more proactive and preventative we can be for children under 12, the less they will struggle later in their teens,” she says. “Quite often, the difficulties that are happening in the early years can be easily sorted out. So, it’s much better to reach out for help and get things resolved early. It’s all about prevention, building happy, resilient, confident children, so they can be happy, successful young people and adults.”

First stop to access a Psychologist for your child is to head to your GP. They can provide a Mental Health Care Plan which gives up to ten sessions per year through Medicare with a Psychologist. Feel free to shop around for a Psychologist before you go to the GP to find one that fits with your child and yourself. Some are bulk billed, and some will charge a gap fee depending on your circumstances. Your GP may also be able to recommend a Psychologist who works primarily with children and families.

If you are concerned but aren’t sure whether a Psychologist is needed, Jill recommends keeping a diary to keep track of any incidents, and then seeing your GP with this information. “If it’s something that happens over a couple of weeks, it could just be the rise and fall of everyday life. But if it’s sustained over a longer period of time, and that nagging thought is still there, head to your GP to have a chat.”

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CHILDREN’S HEALTH SERVICES IN YOUR AREA Avenue Dental. Established on the Sunshine Coast for over 26 years, Avenue Dental is built on long-term trusting relationships, delivering the highest quality of dentistry. They offer a complete range of dentistry from emergency appointments to cosmetic dentistry, children’s dentistry, teeth whitening, dental implants and smile makeovers.

Caloundra, Maroochydore, Kawana / (07) 5443 8111 / avenuedental.com.au Beyond Words. Servicing the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Beyond Words Speech and Language Therapy works with a broad range of clients with a variety of communication disorders and with differing levels of severity such as speech and language delay, social skills difficulties, literacy difficulties, ASD, Aspergers Syndrome, down Syndrome and stuttering.

Maleny / 0431 590 216 / beyondwordstherapy.com.au Children’s Sunshine Chiropractic. Conveniently located in two locations on the Sunshine Coast, Children’s Sunshine Chiropractic has practitioners who are trained in paediatric chiropractic care and are baby and child focused.

With over 45 years combined experience, the practitioners continually undergo educational training and are some of the best trained practitioners on the Sunshine Coast.

Caloundra & Buderim / (07) 5491 7743 / childrenssunshinechiropractic.com.au Dandelion Clinical Psychology. Dandelion Clinical Psychology has been created to provide a dedicated children’s clinic of excellence for child and family psychological assessment and intervention. The vision is for ‘every child to smile inside’ and offers the highest standard of psychological assessment and therapeutic intervention for a wide range of mental health struggles and presentations for children under 12.

Maroochydore / (07) 5452 9804 / dandelionpsychology.com.au Health Naturally Chiropractic. Health Naturally Chiropractic offers gentle adjustments for the whole family. Families and individuals consult the office for many different reasons Whether you have been to a chiropractor before or looking for new ways to become healthier, Health Naturally Chiropractice look forward to supporting you with your health care goals Maroochydore / (07) 5451 1121 / facebook.com/HealthNaturallyChiropractic Kids Dig Food. Specialising in family-focused nutrition and dietetics services, Kids Dig Food provides no-fuss solutions for the fussiest of eaters to kids where weight is a concern. All Kids Dig Food services aim to be practical, real, achievable and most of all fun, helping you learn to eat well together, without the battles.

Brisbane & Sunshine Coast / 1300 971 609 / kidsdigfood.com.au Talk Plus Allied Health Centre. A team of experienced speech pathologists that support children, parents and educators to help children achieve their best speech, language, literacy and communication skills. Talk Plus Allied Health provide speech pathology services for children of all ages using evidence based practice in a caring and professional manner.

Caloundra / (07) 5491 5400 / talkplus.com.au Nurture Paediatrics. Nurture Paediatrics offers children and parents/carers a personal approach to paediatric care. The team is committed to providing children and their parents/carers with long-term, holistic healthcare and support, and the bespoke service offers parents/carers reassurance that their child’s health is also their greatest priority.

Buderim / (07) 5345 5733 / nurturepaediatrics.com.au kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

Suite 18, Building B, Nucleus Medical Suites, 23 Elsa Wilson Drive, Buderim, 4556 Phone 5444 4433 info@drkylieisaacs.com.au • www.drkylieisaacs.com.au

Your baby might be born with a flat or misshapen head due to being in an awkward position or due to the pressure of the birth process.

The majority of flat heads develop as babies either favour one side or are constantly lying on their backs.

Your baby may be suffering from a stiff sore neck causing them favouring one side. A stiff neck may also be a cause of your baby disliking tummy time or sitting. This may result in your baby being on their back or looking to one side more often. If this occurs then the constant pressure on one side of the skull may cause it be become misshapen.

Chiropractors are trained to identify musculoskeletal problems as a result of the birth process and correct them using techniques tailored to your baby.

Once your baby is happy looking to both sides and spending more time on their tummies then the head shape can start to correct naturally.

Our team is very confident and experienced in dealing with babies with flat or misshapen heads.

For an assessment call our office today.

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www.olr.qld.edu.au MARCH / APRIL 2018

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FOOD

Grilled Vegetable and Chicken Fajitas A delicious family dinner for fussy eaters Having a fussy eater in the house can quickly turn dinner-time into drama-time. You want to make sure everyone has a healthy meal but finding something everyone will eat and avoiding cooking those pesky separate meals is not an easy task.

These fajitas are ideal for families with fussy eaters. You can choose what vegetables and meats you use, as well as adapt spices to suit the age and stage of your children, yet still only making one meal for everyone!

The simple act of everyone enjoying and sharing the same meal is a great step towards avoiding fussy eating as well as transitioning babies and toddlers to family meals.

Even better, they’re a wonderfully nutritious and well-balanced family meal choice providing protein, carbohydrates, fibre, a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals and a moderate amount of healthy fats.

And super-fun to build yourself! What’s not to love?

SERVES: 8 Prep time: 15 min (unless you make the tortillas from scratch) Cook time: 15 min Ready in: 30 min

TORTILLAS

INGREDIENTS 2 cups flour + extra for dusting 1 tsp salt ¼ tsp baking powder ¼ cup butter, cut into small pieces ⅔ cup warm water

METHOD

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In a medium bowl, combine the sifted flour, salt, and baking powder.

Use a food processor to add the butter and process until the mixture resembles a fine breadcrumb consistency. Transfer to a bowl.

Stir in ⅔ cup warm water and stir with a fork until a rough dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and use your hands to knead until smooth (4 or 5 minutes). You will know the dough is ready when it is not too sticky.

Separate the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.

Cover with plastic cling wrap and leave to rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

When ready to cook the tortillas, heat a large saucepan (or preferably a skillet) over medium heat until hot. Flour your surface and roll the dough balls (one at a time) into a thin round tortilla shape. The dough should be super thin, so you can almost see the bench top through it. If this is proving too hard, try and roll the dough between some baking paper.

Peel the dough off the bench and carefully place it in the hot skillet.

Cook until the tortilla bubbles and puffs and the bottom browns in spots. Turn and cook the other side. Change the heat of your skillet accordingly (you want brown spots but no burning). Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Repeat with the remaining dough, stacking and covering each tortilla as it’s cooked.

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Forest Glen

T h e s e f a j it a f a m il ie s w it s a r e id e a l f o r h fussy ea ters!

FAJITAS

INGREDIENTS 500g chicken breast or thigh, cut into strips 2 limes, use the juice and grate zest ½ tbsp caster sugar ½ tsp paprika 2 tbsp dried organo 1 tsp cinnamon 2 tbsp olive oil 1 capsicum, sliced, seeds removed 1 corn on the cob, kernels removed 1 red onion, finely sliced 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds ¼ cup parsley, roughly chopped 1 tbsp olive oil 1 avocado, flesh removed and diced ¼ cup coriander Grated cheese to top 8 warm tortilla’s homemade or packaged

METHOD Chicken Marinade: Slice the chicken breasts into 2cm strips and place in a large bowl. Add the lime (juice and zest) sugar, oregano, paprika, cinnamon and oil. Toss to coat the chicken, cover and place in the fridge to marinate. Once marinated, turn on the grill (or heat your frypan). Add the chicken and cook for a few minutes or until cooked through. Remove and set aside.

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Grilled Vegetables: Chop your vegetables and coat in olive oil. Turn on the grill or frypan and wait until hot. Add the vegetables (you can stagger depending on vegetable cooking time). cook until soft (around 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Guacamole: Combine the avocado and coriander.

Fajita: To serve, spread a little guacamole (and sour cream, optional) over a warm tortilla. Top with some chicken strips and a spoonful of the grilled vegetable mix. Sprinkle with grated cheese and fold the tortilla over the filling and enjoy. *Optional: You can tightly roll your fajita and then place on a grill to toast, which can be easier for the little ones to eat.

Extracted from One Handed Cooks by Allie Gaunt & Jessica Beaton with photography by Sarah Buckle, Viking, RRP$39.99.

One handed Cooks champions teaching children to enjoy a wide variety of foods through a balanced diet. The latest flavoursome collection includes recipes for babies through to school age, from homemade teething rusks and baby led weaning to family meals and snacks.

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

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Shop sales and PYO

Open June to November Ph: 07 5494 5146 Fax: 07 5494 5425 Email: info@strawberryfields.com.au

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MARCH / APRIL 2018

51

LOCAL LIFE

WE MEET…HEALTHY HAROLD much-loved icon

Healthy Harold has been a in Queensland schools for many years. We chat to educator about why the message this loveable giraffe delivers is so important for today’s kids.

Jennifer Rousset

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE WORK OF LIFE EDUCATION AND THE HEALTHY HAROLD VAN? Our founder, Ted Noffs, worked with young people on the streets of Kings Cross in Sydney and started Life Education in 1979 in response to a growing drug and alcohol problem. We’ve since expanded to include a range of other issues that affect children’s health and wellbeing. We visit almost 600 Queensland schools through a fleet of 20 mobile vans and Healthy Harold is our much loved mascot!

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN THE PROGRAM? I am one of about 20 Educators in Queensland. My area is from Coolum to Caboolture, covering many unique, diverse and wonderful schools. I stay at each school anywhere from three days to three and a half weeks.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF WORKING WITH THE LIFE EDUCATION VAN? Without a doubt, it’s the students! The things they say, the way they are, and the way their eyes light up when they see me each year – because they know where I go Healthy Harold goes too! Healthy Harold the Giraffe is our mascot who introduces each module and is a friend to all.

WHAT MODULES/TOPICS DO YOU TEACH? Our modules align with the National Curriculum and teachers use us each year as an additional resource. There are 12 modules in our primary school section with topics that include: nutrition, physical and emotional wellbeing, friendships, safety, bullying and cybersafety (including cyber-bullying), smoking, alcohol and other drugs, and our amazing body and how it works. The Life Education van has technology for the body modules which lights up when the body parts are explained, making it all heaps of fun!

Our modules follow on from each other and run side-by-side with class learning that year. This module is then used to reinforce the class learning. There are resources, tips and lessons plans for teachers on our website, which are often utilised. There is also a parents and carers hub with tips and advice, which has become very popular.

WHAT HAPPENS IN YOUR SESSIONS/WHAT METHODS DO YOU USE TO TEACH THE KIDS? Sessions last from 60 to 90 minutes. The main point of difference in the Life Education/Healthy Harold van is the modules are inclusive and interactive. So, the children are finding solutions themselves through activities related to the modules such as role playing, group work and discussions. It’s lively, fun, fast paced and totally different from a

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Q Hand writing

Q Attention span

Q Fine motor

Q Hand-eye coordination

Q Problem solving Q Independent learning

normal classroom environment. The teacher is involved too and there’s pre and post work for the teacher on each module.

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE THIS SERVICE IS SO IMPORTANT TO CHILDREN IN SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND TODAY? We have a vision of generations of healthy young Australians living to their full potential. Without the Life Education program, children would miss out on a vital health education program that helps them to grow up safe and healthy. We work alongside teachers, who really value our program and the essential life skills that we teach. Their students need, enjoy and benefit from the yearly Life Education visit, and our biggest supporters are our teachers, Principals and of course parents, as well as the Queensland Government and our many donors.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CYBER BULLYING MODULE? Bcyberwise, our Cyber safety module, is about everything to do with the Internet and how we should use it.

One of the expressions I use is ‘think before you click, think again before you send’.

We recommend they think of the Internet as a supermarket – nothing is private, even when they think it is.

We discuss everything related to cyber safety: online apps, viruses, who’s playing on what game, the rating of games and why they are rated, the danger of talking to people you don’t know, the ease at which something can go viral, password safety, peer pressure, consequences of bad behaviour online that could stay with them for a lifetime, and more.

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WHY DO YOU FEEL CYBER BULLYING IS AN IMPORTANT MODULE TO OFFER TO CHILDREN TODAY? In today’s world it’s incredibly important to arm students with facts stories, tools and strategies to help with any case of online bullying.

They need to understand that they have people who they can talk to about it and that they can do something about it.

We teach them that if they hear that someone is having trouble online, they must report it and that they cannot be a bystander and do nothing.

They need to also understand how hurtful and damaging any form of bullying can be. Never say anything online that you would not be happy saying to someone’s face and if you are going to say it to their face, stop, breathe and re-think it. We teach them that you never say anything online that if your grandparents saw it, they would feel ashamed. Decision making, group work, and role playing are an important part of this much needed 90 minutes.

However, in the van, there is always time for a bit of fun too!

To find out more about the Life Education and the Healthy Harold programme for your school, head to www.lifeeducation.org.au, or call 07 5572 0166 and ask for Lynn.

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

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MARCH / APRIL 2018

53

THINGS TO DO

WILDLIFE WARRIORS’

Backyard Campout

Looking for something a little different to do this month?

Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors’ annual Backyard Campout is here again, encouraging Wildlife Warriors around the world .

reconnect with nature

From now until June, you can join in the fight for conservation, by joining in the annual Backyard Campout!

Pull out your tent, hiking boots or lounge room fort in support of wildlife and wild places around the world. From the lounge room floor to the Nullarbor, grab your mates, pick your activity and reconnect with the beautiful world around us.

If camping isn’t your thing, there are many ways you can get back in touch with nature and help wildlife. Why not pledge to turn off technology, go hiking with friends, or hold a BBQ at the beach or local park with friends and family?

Now more than ever before, wildlife needs our help. Habitat destruction and the illegal wildlife trade has made a significant impact on animals and their homes around the world and the vision of Wildlife Warriors is that people, wildlife and habitat can survive and prosper, without being detrimental to the existence of each other.

Here in Australia, rubbish, urban development and car strikes are among the biggest risk to our wildlife. The biggest project of Wildlife Warriors, Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, has treated over 75,000 native Australian animals since opening its doors in 2004.

Backyard Campout is held from mid-March through to mid-June each year and hosting your own campout is super easy! So, line up a date, pick a location and invite your guests! If you don't have access to a tent you could make a fort in your living room, class room, backyard or beyond... there is a campout location for everyone!

Find out more at wildlifewarriors.org.au 54

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Lani + Me is a mother and daughter team. We handcraft earrings using polymer clay and surgical grade stainless steel earring posts. Our passion began when we saw how our earrings were making women feel great about themselves. If you can't find what you are looking for on our online store please contact us.

Together we can create your perfect piece. Each pair is just $10.

In need of entertainment for your next event that everyone will enjoy? Well look no further!

Twirls n Swirls Face Painting has you covered, with great face painting at an affordable price.

Bookings are available for any kind of event, from functions to festivals and of course kid’s parties!

Contact Kristen today to make an enquiry or booking for your next event!

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CAKE YARD CAFE

Magical themed pony and unicorn parties for girls and boys!

We can bring our gorgeous PARTY PONIES to your birthday party, school, kindy, function, photo shoot or event! We cater for all ages.

We also have a chicken hatching program, something your kids remember for a lifetime.

Currently servicing the Gold Coast area and surrounds.

W: facebook.com/cakeyard P: 0478 682 363 A: 17 Glenview Road, Glenview Cake Yard Cafe is a place where you can have your cake and eat it too! Providing great coffee and delicious desserts in a tranquil environment.

The cafe is a great spot for ladies high tea, kids’ tea parties and fun cupcake decorating, and the venue offers ample space for private functions and meetings.

Cake Yard specialises in custom design cakes to suit any occasions.

BUBBA SLEEP

VICTORIA MCLELLAND Osteopath

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You don't have to go it alone.

Offering professional, supportive, non-judgemental help with sleep associations, routines, naps, night waking, early waking and more!

With many years' experience working one-on-one with families, I evaluate each situation on a caseby-case basis to get to the bottom of why your little one isn’t sleeping and work with you to restore sleep to your household.

Are you interested to read what an Osteopath can do for your newborn, child or during pregnancy? Did you know that Osteopaths are registered under AHPRA, give health fund rebates and help to relieve tension in the body.

Victoria is based in Ashmore at the My Own Midwife GC clinic.

Head on over to the website www.childosteopath.com.au

WITTACORK Farmstay

COTTONTAIL NAPPY SERVICE

W: wittacork.com.au P: (07) 5494 4369 A: 286 Tesch Rd, Maleny Stay on a real working dairy farm!

With 150 acres of pristine rainforest to explore, children can milk cows, feed calves, pigs, goats and chickens, and collect eggs. Our self contained two-bedroom cottages are set on a ridge overlooking Lake Baroon and the Kondalilla National Park and are surrounded by rainforest. We also have the farmhouse, a three-bedroom workers cottage available.

W: cottontailservice.com.au P: (07) 5443 8849 A: Across the Sunshine Coast Cottontail Nappy Service provides a cloth nappy laundry delivery service to homes and child care centres, from Brisbane to Sunshine Coast at an affordable $35pw. Free consultations are given with all private service. Gift certificates are available online. Cottontail NOW have a gorgeous range of SWIM NAPPIES. Call 07 5443 8849 or visit www.cottontailservice.com.au.

Simple. Gentle. Sustainable.

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

MARCH / APRIL 2018

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CLASSIFIEDS LITTLE BEACH BUMS

IDDY BIDDY BOO

littlebeachbums.com.au @little.beach.bums Across Sunshine Coast

W: iddybiddyboo.com.au P: (03) 9013 0437 E: rochelle@iddybiddyboo.com.au

Little Beach Bums makes choosing cloth for your baby (and our environment) a breeze, delivering freshly laundered organic cotton nappies to your doorstep for an affordable weekly price. Looking for the perfect gift for new parents or parents-soon-to-be? Visit our new online store for gift cards, subscriptions and a huge range of great baby products! Want to know more? Visit our website!

Unique, boutique and simply gorgeous! Iddy Biddy Boo’s beautiful range of personalised children’s wares is full of colour and long lasting. Their super-soft towels come in 10 colours with 60 cute designs to choose from and are perfect for a new bub, or your own family!

From aprons and bibs to art smocks and Santa sacks - they’re open 24/7!

DRAGONFLY's EARLY LEARNING

GDL Nature playspaces

W: www.dragonflys.com.au P: (07) 5471 6500 A: 41-45 Springfield Ave, Coolum Beach QLD 4573 Dragonfly’s Early Learning Centre offers the highest level of quality care and education for children from 6 weeks to 5 years, With a stunning indoor-outdoor environment, stacks of stimulating experiences catering for each child’s individual development, and daily organic and free-range meals provided daily, Dragonfly’s offers your little one the perfect start to their learning journey.

W: gdlnatureplayspaces.com.au P: 0410 863 756 A: Across the Sunshine Coast Specialist in the design and construction of nature-based play spaces. We can offer custom-made spaces that bring your ideas to life. From early learning centres, schools, public spaces and private.

We use our concept plans, work closely with you and gain inspiration from the children’s ideas to bring the best possible solutions to your space and budget.

LITTLE SEED THEATRE COMPANY

GARDEN SPARKLE

Are you looking for theatre classes?

Little Seed Theatre Company offers classes in acting, dance and musical theatre for young people from 4-18 years old.

Join a thriving community of creatives.

Classes by the term, private lessons and week-long holiday programs.

Visit www.little-seed.com.au

Photo credit: Ilsa Wynne-Holscher Kidd

W: little-seed.com.au P: 0407 87 32 32 E: jo@little-seed.com.au

W: gardensparkle.com.au S: @gardensparkle A: 54 Shields Street, Cairns City Create a Fairy Garden with Heart!

Nurture imaginations and delight the young at heart. Choose from Fairy Kate's hand-picked range of designer fairy garden kits, magical fairy houses and miniature accessories. Shipping Australia-wide & internationally. Afterpay + Zippay available. Fast and friendly service with lots of sparkle. School Holiday workshops and parties. Visit our gift shop next time you're in Cairns!

LOVE VIBE

THE MILK PANTRY

W: lovevibe.com.au P: 0414278109 E: lovevibeau@gmail.com

W: milkpantry.com.au S: @themilkpantry E: sales@milkpantry.com.au

Host a FREE lingerie party with Love Vibe. Get the girls together, be entertained, check out some of the latest lines and most of all have a blast!

Hosting discounts. Ladies and wine only.

Party games and unique raffle.

Hen nights, birthdays, reunions, or just a fun night in with your best girls! Job opportunities also available.

The Milk Pantry’s extensive range of lactation products for busy breastfeeding mums includes cookies, brownies, shakes and hot chocolates. Options for those with food allergies are also available such as gluten free, dairy free and vegan options. Each product is lovingly hand-crafted and designed to nourish the body, taste great and includes special ingredients that target breast milk production.

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kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS ART CAKES AUSTRALIA

LITTLE PALM STUDIO

P: 0434 115 694 E: artcakesaustralia@gmail.com W: facebook.com/artcakesaus

P: 0407 152 271 E: info@littlepalmstudio.com A: 3 Farrell St, Yandina QLD 4561

Pastry Chef and Cake Designer, Ana Gatis, creates designer cakes, cupcakes and cake pops for any occasion.

From birthdays to weddings, jungle animals to delicate florals, cake design is her passion, and her unique creations will be the perfect addition to your special occasion. Now located inside South Tweed Sports Club, Tweed Head South.

The Little Artist and Little Author programs are art and poetry/ writing workshops for children.

Fun and educational, the sessions are designed to assist kids in discovering and expressing their own unique creative styles.

Each child will produce a piece to take home at the end of the day.

The beautiful space at the oldest church on the Sunshine Coast is the perfect place to create.

Be Amazed entertainment

HEALTH NATURALLY CHIROpractic

W: BeAmazedEntertainment.com.au P: 0411 177 341 A: Servicing Sunshine Coast, Brisbane & surrounding areas Miss Donna and Mr Jay from Be Amazed Entertainment are a perfect addition to any event.

Bringing a hive of colour, activity, fun and laughter to your special day. Great for a birthday parties, functions or even the main stage at a festival. This crazy duo specialise in family and children’s entertainment from Magic Shows, Balloon Twisting to Face Painting, Party Games and much more.

P: (07) 5451 1121 S: @HealthNaturallyChiropractic A: Unit 7, 2-6 Beach Road, Maroochydore

Put your business DIRECTLY in front of our readers!

Contact your Business Development Manager today to secure your Classifieds spot:

Have you even been curious about Chiropractic care for your family? Come and visit us for an Initial consult, Pre-care appointment and Report of findings – ON US – to see if we can help in any way.

Give us a call on 07 5451 1121 or visit our office on the corner of Ocean Street and Beach Road.

We look forward to seeing you.

Regards Sam and Natise.

SUNSHINE COAST - BRISBANE - GOLD COAST

WINTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE KIDS ON THE COAST / KIDS IN THE CITY

Sunshine Coast: 0424 577 706 / helen@shoremedia.com.au Brisbane: 0411 645 887 / rebecca@shoremedia.com.au

LIVE FRIDAY JUNE 8, 2018

Gold Coast: 0468 868 087 / bridget@shoremedia.com.au

SPECIAL OFFER: BOOK 5 ISSUES AND GET THE 6TH FREE!

kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

MARCH / APRIL 2018

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REVIEWS

KOOKABURRAS LOVE TO LAUGH

RAISING 21ST CENTURY BOYS

By Laura Bunting; illustrated by Philip Bunting. RRP $16.99 Kookaburras love to laugh. They laugh when it is sunny, or rainy, or windy.

They laugh for no reason at all. When one serious kookaburra decides to flee the jokers and sets off to find a more suitable flock, he finds that perhaps he might just be in the right place after all. Kookaburras Love to Laugh is the third book from the popular Sunshine Coast husband/wife team. Age 4+.

By Steve Biddulph. RRP Paperback $29.99, Ebook $9.99 One of Australia's and the UK’s most respected family therapists, Steve Biddulph, has revised and updated his seminal work Raising Boys to talk about how to raise sons in a world which offers gender equality, respect and a whole new kind of manhood, but is also still battered by toxic masculinity, pornography and emotional muteness.

New information in Raising 21st Century Boys includes: cuttingedge science about brain and hormonal development; how puberty can be turned into a wonderful time for making better men; finding a boy-friendly classroom; how role modelling really works, and how being a single mum or dad can work out just fine. Steve says, “Right now, the world badly needs good men.

Your boy can be one of those who grows up so much better and helps to heal the world. Join the boy revolution. As the 21st century rolls on, it’s badly needed.”

NINJA KID

By Anh Do. RRP $14.99 Meet Nelson. Nelson is a nerd. But he wakes up on his tenth birthday and discovers he is the last ninja on Earth! How is he going to save the world when he can’t even get his undies on the right way? This new series from much-loved TV personality Anh Do is exploding with laughs, crazy gadgets and fun antics to keep your early reader entertained.

Ages 7+.

TULLY In cinemas Thursday May 10 (CTC) Tully follows the story of Marlo (Charlize Theron), an exhausted mother of three including a newborn, doing her best to get by barely making it through each day. When she is gifted a night nanny by her brother (Mark Duplass), Marlo comes to form a unique bond with the thoughtful, surprising and sometimes challenging young nanny named Tully (Mackenzie Davis). Tully is a funny, observant and honest look at modern motherhood to make mothers feel less alone.

Amen to that!

DISNEY•PIXAR’S ‘THE INCREDIBLES 2’ (CTC)

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3: A MONSTER VACATION (CTC)

In cinemas Thursday June 14 Everyone’s favourite family of superheroes is back in “Incredibles 2” – but this time Helen (Holly Hunter) is in the spotlight, leaving Bob (Craig T. Nelson) at home with Violet (Sarah Vowell) and Dash (Huck Milner) to navigate the day-today heroics of ‘normal’ life. It’s a tough transition for everyone, made tougher by the fact that the family is still unaware of baby Jack-Jack’s emerging superpowers. When a new villain hatches a brilliant and dangerous plot, the family and Frozone (Samuel L. Jackson) must find a way.

In cinemas June 28th In Sony Pictures Animation’s Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation, join our favourite monster family as they embark on a vacation on a luxury monster cruise ship so Drac can take a summer vacation from providing everyone else’s vacation at the hotel. It’s smooth sailing for Drac’s Pack as the monsters indulge in all of the shipboard fun the cruise has to offer. But the dream vacation turns into a nightmare when Mavis realizes Drac has fallen for the mysterious captain of the ship, Ericka, who hides a dangerous secret that could destroy all of monsterkind.

Join Cinebuzz to stay up to date with all the latest advance screenings and member discounts at Event Cinemas.

Membership is free! Join now at eventcinemas.com.au

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SAGO MINI FRIENDS

$4.49 Another great app from the Sago kids collection, Mini Friends is all about sharing, empathy and creativity through pretend play.

Take a walk to a friend’s house and let the fun begin. Help Robin the bird fix a birdhouse, play dress-up with Jinja the cat or enjoy a snack with Harvey the dog. With five friends and ten activities, there’s a lot to explore. No need for Wi-Fi or internet, it’s safe uninterrupted play, with no in-app purchases or third-party advertising! kidsonthecoast .com.au • kidsinthecit y.com.au

Anything is Possible Children learn at their best when their education is enriched by memorable experiences.

At Immanuel Lutheran College, we give students the ability to explore and discover not only in the classroom, but also with nature.

OPEN MORNING

immanuel.qld.edu.au

THURSDAY 10 MAY

Flinders

Discover inspiration, be part of the Flinders journey.

Prep Information Evening Join us on Thursday 31 May 2018 | 6:30pm to 7:30pm Bookings and information 5477 3260 | www.mfac.edu.au