Bayside MamaMag October 2016

BAYSIDE

mamamag October 2016

WIN a $5oo GAP GIFT CARD Summer fashion Shopping with conscience Juice cleansing Missy Higgins Style identity

free Local fun for the Bayside mum

Chris Humfrey’s

ZOOKEEPER EXPERIENCE!

Spend a whole day with zoologist Chris Humfrey from ABC’s hit series “Chris Humfrey’s Wild Life!”

Work at his very own private zoo, and learn from Chris himself! Get up close and personal with over 2000 animals!

Discover what drives Chris to work with animals.

Who knows your child could follow in his footsteps!

This is an exceptional hands-on experience, which is offered nowhere else.

Chris has personally designed this exclusive program.

Strictly limited numbers of children will ensure that your child will get the WILD experience which they CRAVE! Chris’ zoo is nestled in the foothills of Mount Macedon.

It’s an easy 50 minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD.

GREAT GIFT IDEA!

Bookings and Enquiries www.wildaction.com.au Phone 0419 385 245

A good start to learning.

There’s so much for your child to learn in their first five years.

We can help.

It starts with a nurturing long day care environment. At Goodstart, we get to know your child and their personality. Then we design learning experiences to build on their special interests.

It’s a good start to learning for life.

Enquire about childcare and kindergarten vacancies at a Goodstart centre near you.

3

dress for success The AFL is over, my son has hung up his soccer boots for the year and now the racing season is upon us.

That can only mean one thing... fashion! I’ve been lucky enough to hit Flemington once already, with Northside editor Kirsty and myself glamming up for the Sofitel Girls’ Day In a few weeks back. As the weather warms up, I’m thrilled to be able to shed a few layers and dream of soon slipping into the many summer frocks I purchased in Bali back in April. I busted out a Mister Zimi number for the races the other week, which proved to be very popular!

Shame I left the pink fascinator at Swanston Street Maccas at about 1am. #classymama #canparty!

September saw us spend a great weekend at One Fine Baby which was fabulous, particuarly the VIP night.

Did someone say free espresso martinis and bubbles?

These were made even sweeter listening to Kate Richie, Nat Bas, Carrie Bickmore and co. share their musings on motherhood. It made us realise we are all just same same. No matter what professional uniform, Insta filter or hair and makeup we put on, stripped bare we are all just mums trying to do the best job we can.

The event was a great opportunity to catch up with many awesome MamaMag contacts and a big congrats to all for putting on a great show.

Inside this month we had a chat to Falls Festival founder and man responsible for the new exciting family-friendly Lost Lands festival happening in late October. Picture art, workshops, live music, engaging activities for the kids and parents with Werribee mansion and the zoo as its neighbour. We are beyond pumped for the festy. Missy Higgins also stopped by this month, she’ll be at Lost Lands too, as will the Waifs and some great acts for the kids such as Children are Sticky, Laughing Yoga and the Little Stevies.

As I write this it’s school holidays and my kids are blissfully tucked away in the Macedon Ranges at their Dad’s for the week while mama gets some serious work done. A good divorce has got to have it’s perks right! Hope you got through your holidays Ok!

@localmamamag

Cover image by Jasmyne Tomlinson @quinn.and.theo

WIN

Contents Shopping with a conscience How to make informed choices

6

Parklife 8 Garden City Reserve, Port Melbourne Juicy Couture Mama does a juice cleanse

10

Mama can cook Italian inspired, don’t forget the wine

14

Lost with Missy We meet new mum Missy Higgins

16

Spring into Summer

18

Mama’s fashion picks for little girls Cots for tots

20

St Kilda mums need your help Robinson Crusoe movie WIN 1 of 5 family passes

21

Help children make friends How you can help

22

On the trail Joining the garage sale trail

24

Spring has sprung Time to spring clean?

26

Lovely Locals We explore Martin Street Brighton

28

Shop till you drop at either Melbourne Central or Chadstone Gap stores with $500 to spend on Gap, GapKids or babyGap products!

Visit our Facebook page to enter

www.facebook.com/localmamamag

Into the Lost Lands 30 We meet Festival director Simon Daly A fresh take on Spring makeup Tips from an expert

32

Redefining your style identity Four tips to success

36

Safety series - part 3 Allergies and anaphylaxis

38

Little dreamers A young carer’s story

40

Summer loving Our Summer fashion favourites

42

Colour & WIN WIN Play-Doh party cake sets

45

MamaMag October 2016

a $5oo GAP gift card Entries are open to Victorian residents only. Competition starts October 1st 12.01am and closes October 31st 2016 at 11.59pm. Voucher valid at either Melbourne Central or Chadstone Gap stores on Gap, GapKids and babyGap products.

Visit www.mamamag.com.au for full terms and conditions.

www.facebook.com/GapAUS

MamaMag is published monthly for the mums of the Bayside area by Grizzle Design Pty Ltd. ABN: 26 042 138 550. PO Box 8018 Brighton East 3187 Phone: 1300 771 446 Email: info@mamamag.com.au www.mamamag.com.au

10,000 copies monthly in the Bayside area: Bayside, Glen Eira, Kingston and Port Phillip.

Editor in Chief: Sarah Cavalier Assistant Editor: Kirsty Chick National Key Account Manager: Justine Whatmore Bayside Advertising Sales: Daniela Simonetta & Cherise Berley Like to contribute an article submission or products for Facebook giveaways? submissions@mamamag.com.au For advertising enquiries: download our media kit from www.mamamag.com.au or email info@mamamag.com.au The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publishing staff. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without permission of the publishers.

Health related articles are designed to be informative and educational. They are not intended to provide specific medical advice or replace one-on-one advice from your health practitioner.

shopping with We are overwhelmed with choice when it comes to shopping for our children, and ourselves. It is a joyful experience buying clothes for our delicious newborns and kids, and scientists have now proven that shopping can result in neurological pleasure.

Navigating fashion brands, and seeking out clothes which align with our personal principles, however, can be harder than you may think.

Here are some tips to recognise and support ethically conscious brands.

Make informed choices “Ethical” “Conscious” and “Sustainable” are hot words in the fashion sphere, and many brands will maintain that they are improving their processes, and are aware of their social and environmental responsibilities. However, the best way to learn about your favorite brand’s practices is to research, and ask questions.

Most brands have a section on their website detailing their ethics or code of conduct. Ethical businesses are transparent about their production, workers’ wages and conditions, and have strict environmental and social standards. If your favourite label does not list this information, email Customer Care, or ask an in-store staff member. Knowledge is power, and it’s also addictive. If a brand is guarded about their processes, they may be on the long list of businesses that are not even aware of their own supply chains, or worse, have questionable business practices.

Invest over fast fashion A survey conducted in 2015 by Barnados UK found that the majority of women’s clothes are worn only seven times before throwing them away. Our culture of “fast fashion” has resulted in record-breaking wastefulness, which is not only bad for the environment, but also for our finances.

The many rewards of buying ethical, high quality, and locally designed garments, instead of mass-produced five dollar tees

6

a conscience include longer lasting clothes, cost efficiency (cost per wear), supporting local and sustainable industries, superior shape, quality conservation for future “hand me downs”, and more individual designs.

Often ethical brands cost the same as other labels, but are not as visible with a bricks and mortar storefront. It is worth looking online for alternatives. Shopping ethically is not as impulsive, but is definitely a more fulfilling experience.

Choose natural fibres The fabric content of your new clothes should be thoroughly detailed on the interior care tag. Always read the label before buying, and choose clothes made from natural fibres, where possible.

Organic textiles such as hemp, linen blends and bamboo have become very popular in many sustainable and luxury brands, and use little to no agricultural pesticides. They also do not need synthetic dyes or chemicals in production.

Organic wool is another good option, as it ensures the animals are not exposed to toxins, and farmers adhere to sustainable practices.

Fairtrade and organic cotton is a very popular and important fabric, as conventional cotton farming leaves a heavy carbon and social footprint. The use of recycled synthetic fibres such as polyester is rising, as it’s versatile, weather resistant, and counterbalances some of the wastefulness in large scale clothing production.

There are many beautiful and affordable labels available to us, and choosing brands with a strong ethical and environmental conscience not only sets a great example, but also conserves the earth for our children’s future.

By Verity Wood, Womenswear Designer, verity wood Veritywood.com

7

Parklife Garden City Reserve Cnr Beacon Road & Crichton Avenue Port Melbourne.

This is a fantastic playground in a lovely setting and the mini mes had a ball. The two crowd pleasers are the full sized flying fox and the climbing wall running the length of Portosaurus the great big dinosaur.

There’s two sets of swings—one for babies and one for older kids. There’s also a birds nest, tea cup spinner, a chain bridge and two slides.

Another nearby structure includes two sets of

8

monkey bars and a climbing web—head from one section to another via the bumpy bridge!

A perfectly sized small oval with rugby goal posts is right next to the playground.

Facilities: Bubbler, BBQs, and picnic tables and chairs. No public toilets (the closest are at JL Murphy Reserve on the other side of Williamstown Road).

River Garden Early Learning Centre 670 CHAPEL STREET

Guardian Early Learning Centre - Collins Street 101 COLLINS STREET

Guardian Early Learning Centre - Richmond 67-81 HODDLE STREET

Enrolling now. Call 13 82 30 or visit guardian.edu.au

Juicy Couture After a Melbourne Winter filled with decadence (yes! I have a husband who cooks [sorry not sorry]), I weighed in and decided that it was most definitely time for a ‘Wintervention’.

A juice cleanse seemed like the perfect remedy to overcome my gluttony.

In a world where trends come and go, the latest trend of pressed juices has hit the world with a massive impact. Tailoring your juices to your own tastes and according to what benefits you are seeking has become increasingly popular.

And as we all struggle to find time these days, having it all pre-prepared is an added bonus.

Not unlike a fashion label, at nearly every shopping precinct there are designer pressed juice stores offering cleanses, healthy treats and a huge variety of juices for you to purchase catering to every taste and health benefit.

In 2008 I travelled Eastern Europe with my then partner - now husband. We not only returned engaged, but ten kilos heavier! It was then I discovered ‘Jump Start’, a 7-day juice cleanse book and immersed myself in the world of juicing. Those first 7 days I felt so fantastic they actually turned into 28 and that holiday weight dropped! Over the years since, I’ve returned to the juice cleanse whenever I felt I was getting off track.

So back to my ‘Wintervetion’… When the opportunity arose to trial the ‘Pressed Juices’ Company 3 day cleanse’ I jumped at the prospect of being able to wipe the slate clean and maybe even begin the reduction of my newly acquired ‘love handles’.

To sweeten the deal, the juices are all freshly made with so many amazingly delicious ingredients and combinations. So no more daily trips to my greengrocer for kilos and kilos of fresh fruit and vegetables and no more washing of my juice extractor 8 times a day either. It’s definitely no mess, no fuss. The bottles are even numbered for you so you drink them in the correct order.

10

So it’s 7am Friday, and I’m meeting the upbeat, informative and gorgeous Bianca at my local Pressed Juices store. I feel really motivated and leave with tips, FAQs, 16 different juices and even a bundle of straws to keep me going. By morning tea I’ve already had 3 great tasting juices and smoothies and my ‘system’ is already clearly feeling the benefits! Some cold-pressed green juices followed and to be honest, with such a high dose of vegetables, they don’t normally taste great, but the lime and pineapple really took the edge off. By cocktail hour I was enjoying the Zest 4: coconut, lemon, cucumber and pineapple. Did someone say ‘cocktails’!

Honestly, stick an umbrella in this one and a dash of rum and you‘d have a pretty nice cocktail. It is so like a Pina Colada. No wait, this is a detox story right… OK, so this is yum.

It’s refreshing and you can taste every single ingredient in this juice. Make it fun by pouring it into a cocktail glass and add a sprig of mint.

Find a quiet corner (if you have one) and sip to your heart’s content. I am instantly transformed.

I’ll definitely be having this one again.

By 8pm I still have 2 juices to go, and remember Bianca’s advice to space each one throughout the day as evenly as possible.

It’s time for the one I’ve been hanging out all day for, the Chocolate Almond Milk, with filtered water, almonds, dates, raw cacao and sea salt. It is just what I needed, without all the guilt. Finally 10pm and I feel in need of something warm. It’s a ‘health tonic’ called ‘The Sour Cherry’ that includes alkaline water, Montmorency cherry, Nopal cactus (whatever that is!), lemon balm and lavender. I heat it up and drink it like a soothing tea. End of Day 1.

Day 2 starts late after a sleep in, and although similar to Day 1, I struggle to get through them all, surprisingly feeling not all that hungry, just more energised. I think the experience of the pre-cleanse and my ‘cleansing history’ are serving me well. If you go in ‘cold turkey’, those first few days can be really tough while your body restores its natural balance and eliminates

all those built up toxins. I also noticed my usual nagging back pain was gone, something I had grown to accept over the past few years.

Treat your body well, and it responds!

With a temperature of 12 degrees outside and a pot of soup simmering on the stove (clearly not for me), I ventured back to the store to collect my juices for Day 3. As these juices are made fresh, they have a very short shelf life of 2 to 3 days (this is a good thing). I decided when I got there that after consuming the same routine of juices for the first 2 days, I was ready to change it up a bit. I swapped several of my juices to include the purity smoothie as my breakfast drink of choice. As I was soon to find out, it was jam packed full of flavour with mandarin, fennel, spinach, mango, rainbow chard, basil and watercress. Thick, tangy and the mandarin flavour was beautiful. Imagine buying all of these ingredients and doing it yourself… you couldn’t do it well if you tried.

And being a chai drinker, I spotted the ‘Spiced Almond Milk’ so thought that I’d give that a whirl to end my cleanse on day 3. This was every bit as delicious as it sounds with filtered water, almonds, dates, cardamon, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla bean. Definitely a cleanse highlight.

So my thoughts... give it a go! Alternatively, if a cleanse isn’t for you, there is a healthy and tasty selection of gorgeous food including sushi made with quinoa and of course plenty of sweet treats that are filled with love and goodness and no nasties. You can even just incorporate a delicious juice, smoothie, tonic or milk into your everyday lifestyle. The choice is yours. And the results for me were fantastic…

I have clearer skin, more energy and have re-charged myself. I’ve juiced myself back to a healthier lifestyle. My slate is squeaky clean.

By Lyla Hennig, Bayside mama to two small creatures and never without her pen. To follow her very juicy journey, follow her on Instagram @neverwithoutherpen

11

Inspiring kids to live an active life through Book now sports for Term 4

We are Australia’s leading sport program for 2.5–6 year olds!

• Learn the basics of 10 great sports • Indoors, physio-designed, structured and FUN • Sign up now for a FREE trial!

Your Local Class Days and Locations: Beaumaris Brighton Carlton

GESAC Hawthorn Mordialloc

MSAC Sandringham Springvale

readysteadygokids.com.au 1300 766 892 Franchise opportunities available 12

Live Local - Shop Local - and don’t forget to mention MamaMag!

I’M CRUZ

15.07.2016 | 3.056KG

BORN AT ST VINCENT’S PRIVATE HOSPITAL TO A

VERY HAPPY

LISA & RICHARD

At St Vincent’s Private Hospital, we couldn’t be happier to bring new babies into the world, every single day.

To find out about having your baby at St Vincent’s Private Hospital visit svphm.com.au/maternity

St Vincent’s Private Hospital Melbourne 59 Victoria Parade Fitzroy Vic 3065

P: (03) 9411 7111 F: (03) 9419 6582

www.svphm.org.au

@ SVPHMelb

/StVincentsPrivate

@StVincentsPrivate

mama can Cook!

Chorizo, Beans & Barley Serves: 4 | Prep: 5min | Cook: 30min

Method:

Ingredients:

In a heavy based pan add the chopped chorizo, cook until it releases its oil.

1 chorizo, quartered lengthways and sliced thinly 1 onion 2 cloves garlic 1 carrot 2 squash (actually you can use any veg)

Add remaining ingredients (aside from the parsley, salt & pepper), bring to the boil then simmer until the barley is cooked.

1 cup barley

Season with sea salt & pepper, top with parsley.

1 zucchini

1 litre stock 1 x 400g tin beans - your choice 1 x 400g tin tomatoes Salt & pepper to taste Parsley to garnish

14

In the meantime blend the veggies using a food processor until they are fine. Chopping or grating will work fine too, I am just lazy.

Nonna Josie (Giuseppina) is the matriarch of the Politini family, which has been growing grapes and making wine in the King Valley for more than 25 years, marrying their love of wine with traditional Sicilian food.

Biscotti di Mandorla (Nonna Josie’s almond biscuits) Ingredients:

Method:

4 egg whites

Preheat oven to 180C. Line a large baking dish with baking paper. In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites using a handheld mixer or in a stand mixer until thick and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar, whisking continuously, until it is stiff and glossy.

150g caster sugar 15ml almond essence 350g almond meal (with skin left on) 130g flaked almonds Makes 24 Prep 5 mins Cook 15 mins Celebrate ‘the sweet life’ with the winemaking families of the King Valley at the La Dolce Vita Festival, Sat 19th and Sun 20th Nov 2016.

Find out more at www.winesofthekingvalley.com.au

15

Using a metal spoon, gently fold in the almond essence and almond meal. Place the flaked almonds in a separate bowl.

Roll a tablespoon of the mixture into a rough ball, then roll the ball in the flaked almonds to coat.

Place on the prepared baking tray and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Set aside to cool.

Once cooled store, in an airtight container for up to a week.

The biscotti can also be frozen.

Wine match: ‘Our non-vintage Connection Muscat goes so well with the biscotti – it has an amazing complex aroma and the biscotti is the perfect foil for the muscat’s flavours of coffee, marmalade, Christmas cake and dried fruits.’

Luis Simian, winemaker, Politini Wines.

15

lost with missy Australian singer/songwriter Missy Higgins has enjoyed phenomenal success with her irresistible melodies and ‘arrow through the heart’ lyrics, delivered by a striking voice that clearly means it.

Missy has appeared on the cover of Australia’s Rolling Stone magazine twice and is a threetime chart topper and multiple ARIA Award winner (Australia’s Grammys). But one of her most recent milestones was becoming a mother, with her partner Dan Lee and herself welcoming a baby boy in January 2015.

You’re originally from Melbourne (which we love as we are all about clever Melbourne Mamas!). Are you still calling this home?

We live in Melbourne still, although we’ve been travelling a lot. We just got back from spending a few months in the States which was pretty fun. We toured with Sammy for a bit and then set up camp in LA for a couple of months while I did some writing. It was great to escape the blistering cold of Melbourne for a while.

Obviously home now includes your gorgeous son Samuel Arrow Lee. How has life changed since having a baby? How do you manage to juggle your career and Samuel?

It’s definitely a challenge, juggling career and baby. Only because ideally I would spend all my time doing both, because I love them both, but I can’t. So there’s an inner conflict going on all the time. But I love my work and I absolutely love being a mum so in that respect I’m lucky, it’s just about constantly trying to strike that balance where you feel fulfilled in both areas.

Life has certainly changed dramatically since having a kid, I’ve had to get a lot better at time management for one!

They say it takes a village to raise a child.

Tell us about the villagers in your support network?

16

We are lucky to have a great network of willing grandparents around us. They help out a lot, and Sammy loves playing with his cousins, which is lovely. We also have an awesome nanny once a week. Basically she wrangles Sammy so that I can play piano without him needing to sit on my lap and bash the keys himself the whole time!!

You’ve spent the last few months in the U.S. playing several weeks of sold out club shows.

What was it like touring as a family?

It was really fun actually and not as hard as I had expected. Sammy came to a lot of sound checks and watched me on stage, climbed all over the venue and sound desk, and had a ball. He’s also pretty great with babysitters, thankfully. The flights were the hardest thing, no sleeping for anyone on any of them. We got a lot of death stares. But I did love waking up in strange hotel rooms in weird parts of town and having my family there with me. Usually that’s quite a lonely thing, but it was pretty wonderful this time.

With a nearly 2-year-old son, being part of a family friendly music festival like The Lost Lands is the perfect fit for you. Will Samuel be there, rocking along to some of the acts?

We’ve heard good things about The Teeny Tiny Stevies!

Yes I definitely want to bring him, he absolutely loves music and I love the idea of a festival that is meant for little people like him. I’m most excited about looking out into the audience and seeing him bopping along on his daddy’s shoulders to my music. That’s what I’m hoping will happen anyway!

Following The Lost Lands you will be embarking on a national tour fusing your live band with some of Australia’s leading symphony orchestras. In the past you have been asked to play with orchestras but have usually said no. Why the change of heart?

I did a one off show in Tassie on a mountain top with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra and it was just so special, I wanted to do it again. Playing with an orchestra is something I’ve always had in the back of my mind as something I wanted to do some day, but the timing was never right. After the Tassie show, though, it seemed like the perfect time.

Can we expect to hear any new music as part of this tour?

Was it a challenge to adapt your songs to work on that scale with so many instruments involved? What sort of help did you need to enlist to make that happen?

My little boy inspires me to look at the world through hopeful, optimistic eyes. Every day is completely fresh for him, he doesn’t dwell on yesterday. So that’s what motherhood has taught me, I guess, that the only thing that really matters is right now, this second. And fun can be had in unexpected places!

I can’t take any credit for the orchestral arrangements, they’ve all been done by some of the country’s leading arrangers (including my keyboard player!) so they’re really quite amazing and very cinematic. My songs seem to lend themselves really well to orchestration, I think because of the way they’re written on piano. And with an orchestra they sound absolutely epic, it’s incredible to hear!

Your Melbourne show will be at the amazing Plenary at MCEC. What was the reason behind choosing this location?

It seemed like the perfect venue to play with an orchestra. The MSO play at The Plenary a lot, as it has exquisite acoustics, perfect for strings.

If you’re going to perform with a world class orchestra, you want world class sound.

Yes, definitely. I’m not sure which songs yet, but I have written a heap of new songs lately (one or two about little Sammy).

What inspires you, and what has motherhood taught you?

One thing MamaMag readers love to hear is other mama’s funny parenting tales. Any stand out moments that Master Samuel has made you roll with laughter about?

Sammy has taken to trying to pash little girls in the park. It was cute at first but now I think I’ve gotta rein it in a bit!!! That can’t continue till he’s 18!!

You can catch Missy Higgins at the Lost Lands Festival on October 29 at Werribee Park. Her national orchestral series kicks off in Sydney on Nov 3, with her Melbourne show at The Plenary on November 27. For tickets and details see www.missyhiggins.com

17

Spring into summer Bella & Lace Denim short $59.95 hellowillow.com.au

Josie collar top $39.95, Jasmine alrge bow $7.95, Maya puckers $37.95 www.laceylane.com.au

Jett skirt $49.95, Hunter blouse $39.95, Lotti large bow $7.95, www.laceylane.com.au

18

Acorn Confetti playsuit $44.95 www.naughtsandcrosses.com.au

Acorn Issy bucket hat $36.95 www.acornkids.com.au

Abstract garden raglan dress, $46.95 baobab.com.au

Billy Bellara bag $85 littleconnoisseur.com.au

The Phoenix and the Fox, The Tokyo Club Romper $49.95 www.moppitandmore.com.au Jazmine headscarf $9.95, Hunter blouse $39.95, Sienna suspenders $24.95, Wren puckers $37.95 www.laceylane.com.au

Yellow eyelet detail dress $79.95 countryroad.com.au

Bella & Lace Fi Fi skirt $69.95 hellowillow.com.au Pale grey floral print cami $49.95 countryroad.com.au

Wild Thing playsuit, handmade by CharlieBird Clothing, $69.95 charliebirdclothing.com Bella & Lace Olivia leotard $40 hellowillow.com.au

Bella & Lace woven bag $39.95 hellowillow.com.au

19

Cots for Tots This October it’s St Kilda Mums Cots for Tots appeal and we hope that you can help us.

Having a baby can be stressful enough at the best of times. Not having a cot can create an enormous amount of anxiety for a parent living in difficult circumstances. Imagine if you could not afford to get your nursery ready for your baby. Imagine if you had fled crisis or an abusive situation with nothing.

Imagine if you had to choose between feeding your kids and paying the rent. These are the choices faced by many of the families who rely on St Kilda Mums. The solution is so simple we take the things you no longer use, make them clean and safe, and pass them on.

Maternal and child health nurses know that a safe cot is vital to a child’s health and perhaps even their life.

SIDS and Kids launched their Safe Sleeping Guidelines in the early 90s. Central to this is the need for a safe cot. We believe that every baby should have a safe place to sleep. But not every family can afford to buy a new cot and there is no government funding for people like asylum seekers.

St Kilda Mums volunteers spend an hour cleaning and safety checking every pre-loved cot we rehome. There are never enough donated. We need to raise money to buy new cots. Each week we need to buy between 10 and 15 cots and this number continues to grow.

Can you help by making a donation? Can you help reach our goal to rehome and buy enough cots for 500 families? $30 will buy bedding that will keep an infant snug and safe - blankets, sheets, sleeping suits, wraps, and mattress protectors. $65 buys a new bassinet for families that are homeless, or in crisis accommodation, and do not have room for a cot.

An incredible gift of $140 will buy a brand new cot and mattress; a special wholesale price from a generous supplier.

If you can’t donate money today, you can still help in other ways: - Donate your pre-loved cot or bassinet at our St Kilda warehouse.

- Book a courier to pick up from your home for just $30, which is tax-deductible. Please email donate@stkildamums.org for further information.

- Donate sleep suits, sheets, blankets and mattress protectors.

- Share this message with your friends.

- Run a collection of baby bedding at your school or kinder using the A4 poster on our website.

- Join our volunteer team and help us clean and safety check used cots.

Thank you in anticipation of your support for our goal of keeping 500 babies safe while they sleep.

For more information visit www.stkildamums.org/help/cots-for-tots/

20

WIN

mily a f 5 f o 1 sses a p e i v o m

worth $80 each!

visit www.mamamag.com.au/competitions to enter Entries are open to Victorian residents only. Ticket s valid at participating cinemas only. Competition starts October 1st 12.01am and closes October 31st 2016 at 11.59pm.

Visit www.mamamag.com.au/competitions for entry details and full terms and conditions.

How to help children Few people appreciate just how hard it is for children to make friends.

While friendships can promote a child’s social and emotional development, making and keeping them can be tricky.

Ms Palethorpe, Goodstart Early Learning national manager and former kindergarten teacher and lecturer, said parents have a huge influence on their child’s social skills and their ability to make friends.

“Learning issues and resistance to taking turns, sharing toys or giving attention to others poses social challenges for children,” Ms Palethorpe said.

Children learn and construct new knowledge and learnings when they make friends, and they learn how to relate to others, respond to challenges, regulate their behaviour and develop social skills and confidence.

22

“We know from a young age children initiate playful exchanges with other children, however, to develop these exchanges into positive friendships, young children should be supported to develop appropriate social skills.”

These skills include turn-taking, sharing and listening as well as recognition and respect for the feelings of others.

Families can support children by role modelling appropriate social behaviours, encouraging children to develop their skills and by having realistic expectations of them.

“There will be times when sharing is just too hard and this is why in early learning centres, as children are learning these skills, there will be multiple copies of the same resources to support children with this learning.”

Ms Palethorpe shared simple, everyday ways that parents or carers could encourage and develop a child’s social skills to help them make friends.

make friends 1. Help your child feel safe and help them learn to trust other children and the environment.

For any connection to form with another child, children must first feel safe. Trust is built once a child feels they can trust other children, adults and the environment.

For babies and toddlers, Ms Palethorpe suggested parents sit on the floor and play with their child, and other children, and talk about what they are doing.

“Your child will see this behaviour and soon learn that it is safe and okay to interact with the other child or children.”

Ms Palethorpe explained this was why Goodstart educators made strong connections with families, in order to forge trust with not only the family but through the family to the child.

2. Facilitate connections with other children.

On weekends, Ms Palethorpe suggested while playing near other children, parents could for example say, ‘Georgina, this little person has come over to play with us. She might want to join in on our play. How about we offer her a shovel?’ The interaction helps connect children with each other and helps them learn to share.

3. Model appropriate social behaviours.

Children and adults can learn through social interactions, Ms Palethorpe said.

Creating or leveraging everyday interactions can help children learn fundamental social skills such as greeting other children, turn-taking, sharing or listening.

To encourage sharing, at the park Ms Palethorpe suggests saying, ‘Oh look Sam, Peter has come over to play with us. He is smiling and being friendly. How can we invite him to play?’ or ‘Oh look, that little person is smiling at us. How about you say hello and ask if he’d like to play with us.’

Once a child has built a sense of trust, Ms Palethorpe said it was important to facilitate connections with other children.

“These are all little things that you can do each day that will help your child connect with other children and develop their social skills to make friends.”

“People often think that children automatically know how to start playing and engaging with other children, but this may not necessarily be the case. Children often have different temperaments, past experience or may not have had the previous opportunity to play and engage with children.”

The Goodstart Early Learning Capability Team develops high quality, evidence-based professional learning materials to improve early childhood practice and knowledge of children’s development, learning and wellbeing across Goodstart’s network of 643 centres.

Ms Palethorpe said parents should look at what was going on within the environment and find ways to connect their child with other children, and engage them in a positive social interaction.

www.goodstart.org.au

23

on the traIl There is just something about seeing a garage sale sign stuck to a power pole with a few tacky balloons that gets mama really excited!

The simple act of buying and selling at a garage sale can do a lot of ‘good stuff’ beyond making some extra money or discovering a bargain.

Many of us don’t realise that garage sales are also a great way to bring communities together, help save the environment and improve well-being.

Now in its sixth year, Garage Sale Trail is a national initiative that sees hundreds of thousands of people participating in one big day of garage sales. Last year’s event saw almost 3 million pre-loved items on sale at over 13,000 garage sales across the country.

In Victorian alone, over 420,000 items were listed for sale in 2015 and over 61,000 people were involved in a garage sale.

An award-winning sustainability and community campaign, Garage Sale Trail was founded in 2010 by Andrew Valder and Darryl Nichols. The initiative encourages people to sell or reuse unwanted ‘stuff,’ take responsibility for their waste and have fun along the way.

24

“We absolutely love the unexpected interpretations of garage sales that we see on the day. In the past, people have sold some quirky items including a signed U2 Gold Record, a beachside apartment, a highland cow, a hovercraft and a definitive collection of Star Wars figurines. Two Swedish girls even set up a roller disco in their garage for the day!”

In addition to finding the ultimate bargain or quirky treasure, taking part in Garage Sale Trail is an opportunity to consider the impact we’re having on the planet and how we can make a difference. Last year, Garage Sale Trail redistributed enough items to fill 100 kilometres of shopping trolleys.

A garage sale is also a great way to bring communities together and to foster neighbourhood relationships. Last year, each Garage Sale Trail participant made an average of 22 new community connections and stayed in touch with 50% of these.

Of the 2,000+ registered sales in Victoria for 2015, an astounding 41,398 new community connections were made.

Sunday 22nd October 2016 Find out more at garagesaletrail.com.au

BROUGHT TO YOU LOCALLY BY

CUT THE CLUTTER October 2016

REGISTER AS A SELLER

0579

GARAGESALETRAIL.COM.AU

spring has srung To Spring Clean or not to Spring Clean?

When asked to publish some helpful hints about spring de-cluttering, I of course said absolutely! However, I was confronted with a challenging notion when penning my thoughts about spring de-cluttering. That is, I don’t believe spring is the best time for the common good of a “spring clean”. The truth is, a spring clean works best as an all round yearly way of life, not just saved for the budding season of spring!

So what does this recurring way of life look like? It means an iterative focus on the top three spots clutter accumulates.

Kitchen cupboards Although it can seem like a HUGE job, one of the best first things you can do is pull out everything from every kitchen cupboard. I’m talking everything!

From this, you can now place clean items back in clean cupboards, but you have to hold that item in your hand and ask yourself; is this used on a weekly basis and does it make me happy?

It’s quite strange to ask yourself if a dinner plate makes you happy but alas, if you’re holding a cracked plate that you have held onto for 15 years and it isn’t really reflecting where you are now and who you want to be, it is time to get rid of it!

26

Linen cupboards Give yourself permission to only have linen and towels that are a colour and texture that give you satisfaction. Peter Walshe - my absolute de-clutter guru - advises two sets of sheets per bed. Now I’m a linen lover from way back, so for me this was daunting, so I gave our bed three sets and kids two sets, which works magnificently.

I love my linen cupboard because every time I open it, nothing is displaced - it gives me a great sense of beauty, nurture and feeling like I am in control.

Kids rooms Toys, books, clothes all pile up - often I’m de-cluttering a kids room and find Mum or Dad are either holding onto baby stuff for maybe that second bub, or are emotionally attached to some items. Here’s the thing - you don’t need to save everything. Yes, popping baby stuff in a storage container is great for the former or latter, but I challenge you; open that container and I guarantee you could get rid of half of it!

So make yourself a cup of tea, pull out that container or open that cupboard and exert some quality control. I promise it will bring that space you crave in your kids room, which in turn makes space in your heart and mind for new and wonderful things.

Bringing together my top hints Forget the notion of a ‘spring clean” and substitute that with the notion that keeping your cupboards and home de-cluttered is a way of life.

Having a de-cluttering expert help does save you time and expedites the process of having to ‘do it all yourself’. That said if having a stranger go through your cupboards isn’t your thing, then it’s time to take control and make the time.

Home organisation is a lot like exercise; the same principles apply! You can have an expert get you started, tailor an exercise plan for you and you’re on your way…or you just get out there and jog one day! The trick is to commit to jogging weekly, rain, hail or shine (not just in spring).

Once done, your options are sell or donate.

There is more about ‘consciously’ donating on my Facebook page, which again brings a whole other level of satisfaction to your life.

We often don’t need as much as we think we’re conditioned to be gatherers, but take back control of what you choose to gather and what you choose to let go of. This works not only with your dinner plates but with your psyche too!

Re-organising and re-invigorating spaces, so they can be the best they can be (all year round) not only transforms a cupboard or a room, it actually transforms your life! In saying that, spring is a great time to open that cupboard and make a start!

By Brooke Howden - Clutterless Cupboards.

Based in the Inner West Brooke specialises in de-cluttering, sorting, organising, beautifying, consolidating and re-creating places and spaces. facebook.com/theclutterlesscupboards

27

lovely locals

martin street Brighton 1.

1. Family friendly coffee and food - Martin Street Cafe & Providore This place is a must-do for a lazy Sunday brunch. Stroll in past the scrumptious cake display, pick up a paper and order from the modest yet hearty menu. The coffee is great and their gorgeous courtyard is just the spot as we start to see sunnier skies! It has a great chalkboard to keep kids entertained as well! 147 Martin Street. martinstreetcafe.com.au 2. Fresh produce - Gardenvale Market This gourmet grocery and organic store has fresh fruit and veggies and all the extras you need to make delicious meals for the family. David goes to market every morning to ensure he brings you the freshest premium produce available. 160 Martin Street.

2.

3. Happy homewares - Mood I long term Martin Street resident, Sam has been running Mood since 2009.

Know for her bright cushions and on trend homewares, she also offers a interior decorating service and sells just about everything for the home... custom made sofas, cushions, curtains, bedheads, daybeds, light shades, ottomans and some standout artwork by Felicity McCreadie.

126 Martin Street. moodhomebrighton.bigcartel.com 4. Neon and fun - Electric Confetti Electric Confetti is the work of Brighton-based designer and illustrator Natalie Jarvis. ringing the fun of traditional neon using the fresh modern medium of LED neon meaning it’s super safe for little one’s bedrooms and everywhere else in between. Almost as bright and funky as Nat’s amazing Gorman inspired wardrobe, Electric Confetti was created as a fun and inexpensive way to bring the nostalgic feel of vintage neon advertising into the home. She has a fabulous selection of existing designs or go all out and have something custom with your child’s name or favourite thing.

126a Martin Street. electricconfetti.com

3.

4.

5. Family dinner - 10 Greek Plates An easy dinner go to for either take way or eat in with the family. The chicken and lamb are divine, tender, juicy and seasoned well. The salads are fresh and the haloumi amazing. Would have loved to have tried the rest of the small but adequate menu. 136-138 Martin Street. 10greekplates.com.au 6. Date night - Sons of Mary Date night all right! Mama would know, I had a lovely first date here just last week! What was once an old office block has been transformed into one of Brighton’s hottest dinner and drinks locations. The venue is impressive with large windows facing the street (which when opened up in summer will be heaven), an open fire with cozy couches and an impressive bar selection.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, their small but delicious menu ticks all our boxes. Mama especially likes the crispy skin salmon fillet.

14 Spink Street. www.sonsofmary.com.au 28

5.

6.

UND...

YOU ARO W O H S O ET

IT’S TIM

N E P O NOW

NEW

re t n e C n o McKinn

W O N L ENRO Arts & Crafts • Yoga • Music • Fun Activites

252 - 254 Tucker Road, McKinnon - Ph 9578 0555 and 31 East Boundary Road, Bentleigh East - Ph 9570 7557

www.kidstimeelc.com.au

into the lost lands A festival for families and friends Simon Daly started the Falls Festival when he was just 21, after leaving University, without his commerce or education degree, and moving back to the family farm in Lorne. His Dad advised that the Falls Festival would come in peaks and troughs and not to expect more than 5 years out of it. 20 years later and Daly had built an iconic festival that spread across two states on consecutive days over New Years – in Lorne and Marion Bay, Tasmania - with an added location of Byron Bay imminent.

After having his first two kids Lyla (7) and Oscar (3), and 20 years in the festival game, priorities shifted for Daly whose mum, dad, sister and wife were all heavily involved in the running of the business. Now with a third child, Bowie (5 months), and three years postFalls retirement, Daly is reenergised with fresh passion and a spark of enthusiasm that comes with bringing another revolution to the Aussie festival landscape. Bringing back a place that

30

time forgot, a lost era, a time where screens were not, comes The Lost Lands. Inspired by a special spot along The Great Ocean Road in the flats by a river with no phone reception, where Daly and a few hundred of his mates and families have retreated to over the past couple of years, came the seedling of The Lost Lands Festival.

Further to your special camping spot and family, where has inspiration for The Lost Lands come from?

In Europe there have been festivals that have been going on for decades more than here and families have been a real and intrinsic part of that. I think that has contributed to a really strong culture in Europe which I think is only positive with kids being exposed to music and arts and its just a real natural kind of progression.

Richard Moffatt (former Falls Festival Programmer) told me the vision I had for Lost Lands was closely aligned to a festival in the UK called Camp Bestival. So I took the whole family and camped there for 4 days and nights with 16,000 adults and 15,000 children. The kids were thoroughly engaged. It was complete sensory overload in the first few hours and then you settled in. They also have a castle, and although we don’t have castles in Australia, Werribee Mansion is pretty close! And the gardens are really beautiful. But also we’ve got a zoo as our neighbour (free entry for the kids over the festival weekend)! The Camp Bestival trip validated the ideas of what The Lost Lands could become.

There’s so many exciting elements to the festival, tell us about one unique act in the program.

We’re flying in Emiliano Matesanz who’s a Spanish/Argentinian who I met when I was traveling through Northern Spain. He makes all these incredible sculptural artistic children’s games and they’re all made from recycled metals, mostly old car parts and general scrap metal, the springs from old bed frames He has over 40 games prepared for the kids.

There’s going to be many zones. The main stage is mainly for the parents, but it’s also music that you’d be proud to have your kids share and then so much of the other programing is geared towards the kids and once they get to the Lost Lands its then that they’ll realise how big that is. But also the programming of the arts, theatre and comedy is very much for the kids but its also very engaging for the adults.

How do you secure the line-up and get that mix of programming right?

This came together reasonably smoothly.

Trying to get that feel right of things that kids would really love but stuff that goes back to your old days. Like the Waifs.

A lot of the acts we approached have got kids themselves so from that side they just loved the concept right from the beginning. So it was a really easy process to get them involved.

Miriachi Al Bronx, Missy Higgins, The Waifs, Ozomatli, Ali Barter and Architecture in Helsinki are all in the lineup, but we also want the

festival to be showcasing new talent as well.

Uncovering new talents Like Tash Sultana and Alex Lahey. It’s really catering for all.

What stands out, over all those years at Falls? Favourite moments/acts?

There is so many. Harking back to my day and the times, the first Tassie Falls was really special.

It was a real historical moment in terms of my ‘Event Life’. And of course the very first Falls Festy. Performance wise, at the time Iggy Pop was the most stand-out performance of the whole duration of Falls. His energy just being on show. Also The Hives first show in Australia was in Falls, maybe 2001, and they were just such jaw-dropping performances. Just a really special show. They stand out for live performances.

Where do you see the festival headed in the next few years?

Ultimately my vision for it within the next 2 or 3 years is for not only having Lyla (daughter) but a bunch of other kids from different ages, from 4 years through to say 14 years, involved in feedback post events and getting a lot of input from the kids. But more importantly during the festival, getting the kids to run really good chuncks of the event as little event organisers themselves. They’re so switched on and there’s no doubt when they’re given that responsibility that they’ll embrace it maybe even better than any of us. For example that might be wrist banding, down the track and once the systems are in place it’d be really good to see kids checking kids. And there might be an outpost where maybe an adult is driving a buggy and a kid in the front with the list making sure that everybody gets fed every 4 hours.

Between October 29 – 30 Werribee Park will play host to an exciting and carefully curated music and arts program that will cater for the tastes of an estimated 3,000 people aged 2-62 years!

With an abundance of activities, theatre, comedy, acts and workshops geared towards the kids, but equally appealing to the adults, the Lost Lands is sure to delight a wide array of new and old festival goers.

This festival may not be as big as Falls, but it promises to be a festival great wonder and charm.

www.thelostlands.com.au 31

A FRESH TAKE ON SPRING As we welcome the warmer temperatures, lighter nights and we start to feel that spring in our step again we know its time to take a fresh look at our makeup bags and think about giving our makeup a seasonal update.

Here’s my tips for a modern and fresh take for spring make up:

Lighten up This is a great time of year to take a break from the heavier bases we tend to go for in winter.

It’s time to forgo the heavy contouring and use strategically placed highlighter for shape and lift. Highlighter lifts the face by bouncing light off the high points of the face so even without any other make up highlighter can give you a really modern take on the sculpted face. Key areas to highlight: temples, tops of cheekbones, bow of the lip, down the centre of the nose, inner corner of eyes and the collarbones.

Highlighter sticks are super easy to use and makes application a dream…try 3ell People BioBrightener stick for an eco-conscious injection of shimmer.

The Power Pout Team your fresh and luminous skin with a power pout. Don’t be afraid of a strong or bright lip. With many of us mums running our own businesses, juggling work and home life, tired mums with sleepless nights or just feeling like you need a pick me up the bright lip is the ultimate distraction, confidence boosting makeup technique. If you aren’t used to wearing lipstick start off with a lip stain and build up to getting used to seeing yourself wearing colour on your lips. I love a bright Fuchsia (blue toned pink) or an orangey red to really wake up the face! Try LouLou Lips in Nemesis or Aurora both available through my website.

3232

Try Cream Formulas If you haven’t dabbled in cream products for makeup you are missing a treat! Cream eyeshadows are so easy to use, super blendable and have great staying power for lasting throughout the day. You can choose a sheer shimmery finish to a matte finish in fact a cream matte eyeshadow is much easier to blend than it’s powder counterpart and are a good choice if you are worried about fine lines and wrinkles. Try the MAC Paint Pots or Maybelline Colour Tattoo Cream eyeshadows.

Cream bronzers and blushers are gorgeous as they add more moisture to the skin helping to plump the skin up. Ensure to apply cream over cream and not powder as you will find your makeup separates or looks lumpy.

Brushed up brows We seem to have fallen into a trap that society (or Instagram!) has told us we need to define our brows but we are often choosing the wrong colours and making our brows too dark which also means ageing! When we look to the catwalk for modern makeup inspiration brows are rarely pencilled in more likely you will see brushed up brows either with a soft shadow brushed through or single brow hairs expertly applied by make up artists hair by hair. With time of the essence us mamas don’t generally have time for this but try opting for cooler lighter shade for brow definition or try the brow mascaras that can set the brows up and add some colour. I particularly like the Benefit Gimme Brow which adds colour and volume to the brow.

MAKEUP Rose Gold, Coppers & Corals Are you obsessed with rose gold for your jewellery, phone case, handbag? Why should your makeup be any different? Seriously though warm toned pinks, rose gold and coppers look beautiful on many skin tones, compliment most eye colours and are perfect for spring/summer as we all become more bronzed. Palettes such as Urban Decay Smokey 3 or it cosmetics Naturally Pretty Vol.2 The Romantics have a lovely selection of complimentary colours for creating a seamless look. For a monochromatic look choose a coral lip for your power pout and add a metallic highlight by adding a touch of your copper/golden toned eyeshadow to your cupids bow.

Spring is a great time to try something new and embrace new beginnings. Makeup is about fun and doing something to make you look and feel better. Have fun with it and don’t think about ‘the rules’ too much if it feels good then it will look good and thats the most important thing!

Amy Hughes is a professional makeup artist and beauty writer at www.madeoverandme.com where she blogs a mixture of beauty, mummy ramblings & real life. Amy is available for one-onone confidence boosting makeup lessons and makeovers in your own home across Melbourne.

Sign up for the “&” in Made Over & Me including special discounts, secret subscriber blog posts and the Makeup DIY series straight to your inbox.

33

Got the family covered this Spring

50 Church St Brighton

T 9592 8587

NOW OPEN

Brand new 18 hole mini golf course 3 mini golf birthday party packages Open late during daylight savings 18-20 Wangara Road, Sandringham www.sandyminigolf.com.au 34

Live Local - Shop Local - and don’t forget to mention MamaMag!

Places for 2017 are filling fast – enrol your child now at the brand new, state-of-the-art Carrum Family and Children’s Centre.

Parent tours

Meet our dedicated staff and tour our new facility in October

Enrol now

Visit kingston.vic.gov.au/carrumfcc to register!

• Wednesday 19 October – 9.30 to 11.30am • Thursday 20 October – 6 to 7.30pm • Saturday 22 October – 9.30 to 11.30am • Monday 24 October – 6 to 7.30pm • Tuesday 25 October – 9.30 to 11.30am The centre will be home to: • childcare and education • three-year-old kindergarten • four-year-old kindergarten • Kindergarten PLUS – a program incorporating extra learning with additional hours • maternal and child health (commencing late 2016) • family and community services.

For more information: 9581 3000 or go to kingston.vic.gov.au/carrumfcc

Enjoy a wonderful evening out in special surrounds Meet the local artists and their inspiring works:

Artists Market Twilight 4.00pm - 8.00pm

Friday 28th October 2016 Beaumaris Art Group Studios, 84 Reserve Rd, Beaumaris Live Local - Shop Local - and don’t forget to mention MamaMag!

Sculpture Textile Handmade paper Paintings Ceramics Jewellery Basket weaving Creative clothing Hand-made cards Interesting craft Entertainment

Tempting artwork | Yummy food | Wine Bar Family atmosphere 35

Redefining your More often than not I come across lots of mums and ladies who share with me the struggles that they are facing every day trying to identify who they are now and reflecting their personality through what they wear.

Let’s face it, after picking up after your kids, taking care of their meals, taking them to school, preparing meals, cleaning the house, taking care of their sickness, going to work or working in your business, plus many many other tasks that you have to be on top of 24/7, it’s not rare that women tend to forget or even care about the way they look.

You’re tired, restless and on the go all the time, which means it is not that easy to take a moment to think, “what should I wear today that will make me feel confident, gorgeous, comfortable, sexy, etc?” Pretty much the tendency is more along the lines of “this will do”. You then take a look in the mirror and just think “what happened to me, this is not me”.

You lost sight of yourself.

As mother’s it is very important to not lose track of your sense of self. It’s very true that becoming a mother is one of the most rewarding experiences that you could ever encounter but you need to continue to look after YOU so you don’t become an unhappy parent who lacks confidence.

When you get dressed every morning you are creating yourself. Your identity is what makes you unique and distinct amongst others. It is a huge part of who you are as a person and when you chose an outfit that says “this will do”, that is what you are reflecting to others which is the way you are feeling now about yourself.

36

As mothers, it’s completely normal to feel that by going shopping for new clothes you are being vain or selfish to spend on yourself. But what’s important is that once in a while you do spend some time and money on you. Just because you’re a mum doesn’t mean that you should lose your sense of style and identity.

Here are some of my tips for helping you rediscover your personal style and identity with clothes that will make you feel confident and amazing about yourself:

1. Clarity The first thing you need to work out is how do you want to be perceived by others? Think about who you are as a person now and where you want to go. Describe in 3 words, what your image says about you now and then 3 words of what you would like your image to be.

2. Dress for your body shape As time goes by our shape may change. For those of you who have faced a major body shape change, get acquainted with your shape no matter what it is. Love your beautiful body and learn how to dress for it. Think about highlighting your assets and camouflaging those parts of your body you don’t like as much.

3. Have a supportive wardrobe Your wardrobe should be a place where you always keep positive energy. It is the place where you are going every day and creating yourself. If you have a wardrobe full of clothes that no longer fit, are out of style, don’t represent who you are anymore, have never been worn, or represent a sad or angry memory, then you need to remove those items that simply no longer serve you any purpose except transmitting a negative energy every time you see them.

Style Identity 4. Look Book To save you time every morning on what to wear each day, get creative and take a little time one day to create lots of outfits. I suggest layingy each outfit on your bed or somewhere with a neutral background and taking photos of each different outfit. Create looks with different pieces and keep them on your phone so it is easier to go back for a reference and get dressed in the morning. As an example grab a pair of jeans and put it with 3 different tops, blazers, scarfs, jewellery or shoes.

Create 3 different looks; these can be casual, smart casual or dressy for a night out. If you do this with some of your key pieces, you will find that you will start having lots of outfits from just a few pieces of clothing.

Eliana Colimodio, Personal Stylist, Style By Eliana www.stylebyeliana.com Eliana empowers women who have experienced a major change to shine and feel confident through easy and fun styling solutions.

Eliana is available for oneon-one personal styling consultations across Melbourne.

37

safety serIes Part 3 - Allergies and Anaphylaxis Allergies and anaphylaxis are concerns for most parents, either experiencing them personally themselves or hearing stories throughout the parenting journey. One of the most common fears expressed by a new parent is the concern of introducing new foods to their child and the worry that a reaction might occur. In this safety series we will be addressing the difference between an allergy and anaphylaxis, food intolerance vs food allergy, signs and symptoms and what to do if your child is experiencing an allergic reaction.

It is important that if you do feel that your child is at risk that you seek further support and information from your local GP and we also recommend that all community members should understand what to do in case of an emergency.

Allergies vs anaphylaxis In understanding anaphylaxis, we need to understand what is an allergy and what is the difference between the two. When thinking about allergies we are referring to something that our body reacts to that would normally be harmless. An allergy is usually represented by a superficial reaction of the skin whereas anaphylaxis displays common skin rashes but also involves respiratory and/or cardiovascular and/or persistent severe gastrointestinal symptoms.

An allergen can be anything that is found in the environment that will trigger an unexpected response – an inflammatory reaction. Some of the most common triggers for anaphylaxis include food, insects and medications with some uncommon triggers including latex, exercise, cold temperatures, immunisations (rare) and unidentified (idiopathic).

38

Food intolerance v’s food allergy There is a difference between your child having a food intolerance and food allergy.

Food intolerance does not cause anaphylaxis and the exact mechanism is sometimes not clear. It is very important that your child is diagnosed with an allergy to food and possible anaphylaxis.

Food allergy is the most common in children, affecting 10% of infants under one year, and 4-8% of children under 5 years. The most common foods are peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, egg, cow’s milk, wheat, soy and sesame. Although be mindful that any food can cause a reaction.

A reaction to food is most likely to occur after ingestion and generally does not occur on first exposure. If there is going to be a reaction it is usually 1-2 hours after exposure. Maternal diet during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not considered to play a significant role.

Signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction Mild or moderate allergic reaction • Swelling • Hives/welts • Tingling mouth • Eczema or rashes • Abdominal pain (these are signs of a mild to moderate allergic reaction to most allergens, however, in insect allergy these are signs of anaphylaxis).

Mild or moderate signs might not proceed with anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) In addition to the mild and moderate allergic reaction • Difficult/noisy breathing • Swelling of the tongue • Swelling and tightness of the throat • Difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice • Wheeze or persistent cough • Dizziness or collapse • Pale and floppy (in young children)

What do I do if I think my child is having an allergic reaction?

Mild or moderate allergic reaction ACTION • For insect allergy, flick out the sting if it can be seen (but do not remove ticks) • Stay with person and call for help • Give medications if prescribed • Locate adrenaline auto-injector if available • Contact parent/guardian or other emergency contact.

Commence CPR if at any time if person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.

If uncertain whether it is asthma or anaphylaxis, give adrenaline autoinjector FIRST, then asthma reliever.

Adrenaline is livesaving and must be used promptly without delay. It is important that all parents and carers in the community understand the use of an epi-pen, even if your child is not at risk. It is not uncommon that you will be around a child that has anaphylaxis and you should know how to help.

Where can I gor for more information: Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy www.allergy.org.au Organise a Family First Aid session and learn about safe eating, allergies and anaphylaxis and learn how to administer an epi-pen with WONDERWOMAN Children. www.wonderwomanchildren.com

Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) ACTION • Lay person flat - if breathing is difficult, allow to sit - do not allow them to stand or walk • Give the adrenaline autoinjector if available and follow instructions • Call 000 • Contact parent/guardian or other emergency contact • Further adrenaline dose may be given (if available) and there is no response after 5 minutes.

39

Little dreamers I am the mother of 2 children. A pigeon pair. Girl and boy.

I always believed I could be a good mum. But over the years since having children, I have doubted myself many times.

Was I giving my children equal attention?

Was I keeping them safe and well? Were they happy?

My son has asthma and epilepsy. He has had encephalitis, pneumonia and whooping cough (because he was allergic to the immunisation).

My daughter is a young carer. You may not know what a young carer is, but I bet you know one. A ‘young carer’ helps a family member who may have a disability, mental illness or chronic illness. These incredible kids help to care for their sibling or parent; and complete tasks that are way beyond their years, including emotional and practical support.

My daughter was nearly 3 when her brother was born. By the time he was 6 months he was in hospital the first time. Since then she has waited for the ambulance many times, sat next to him in the car as he has a seizure and spent countless hours with him in hospital. At home she often did her homework by torchlight and knew to lift her chair rather than scrape it on the floor to not make any noise.

40

Our daughter had lots of friends but was still socially isolated. We didn’t know the term young carer then, but we knew her life was not the ‘norm’. She played with her dolls, loved dressing up and dancing. She also helped get her brother’s medicine while I held him; sat with him so I could shower; and would walk past his room and check his breathing while he slept.

My daughter grew up quickly, mature and responsible, but also anxious and insecure.

When she was at school and her brother was home sick, she worried. Was he okay? Was he going to go to hospital? Would he be at home when she got home? She craved attention and as parents we have always felt pulled between wanting to give attention to both our children, who both needed us so desperately.

As my daughter got older, she understood more. She became a teenager, hung out with her friends and left her room in a mess. She also stayed home to look after her brother when I worked, continually checking on him, giving him medicine and reading to him. Now she is the first with her keys if we need to rush him to the doctor or hospital. Now she visits him in hospital with special gifts, including things to make him laugh. She knows just what he likes and what works.

My daughter even founded an organisation called Little Dreamers Australia to support other brothers and sisters of sick kids. When she began at 16 years old it was a side hobby, now it is her full time job and her mission is to improve the emotional and physical health, wellbeing and resilience of Young Carers to ensure that caring is a responsibility shared

by Government, community and family. She believes in creating the things that she wished existed when she was younger, and being the role model for other Young Carers that she didn’t have.

Little Dreamers has supported over 500 Young Carers throughout Australia and runs a number of different programs and one massive Young Carers Festival in October every year to thank Young Carers and raise awareness about how hidden this at risk group in the community can be.

While my daughter runs the business, when asked why she does it she always looks back to her brother. He is her daily inspiration and the reason she pushes so hard at what she does – so the brothers and sisters of sick kids can be the best support for their families but also for themselves. She is a big advocate of making sure a carer takes care of themselves too – even though she is not the best at doing that herself!

My children are now best mates, share their own personal language and jokes. They laugh, fight and gang up on us. My son loves to sit on his sister’s bed at night when we have gone to bed and confide in his big sister.

We made it and I think we did okay!

Find out more about Maddy and the team’s amazing work at www.littledreamersonline.com Little Dreamers.... where Young Carers are valued by the wider community, empowered by their caring role and supported to achieve better emotional health and wellbeing.

41

Scarlett skirt, $69 featherandnoise.com.au

Summer loving

Le grande shift, $269 gormanshop.com.au

Black Broderie Cape $199 countryroad.com.au

Nikki Chambray short, $59.00 featherandnoise.com.au 42

Flores Lily dress, $150 misterzimi.com

Skitse bamboo dress, $145 elkaccessories.com

Harlequin tee, $99.00 gormanshop.com.au

Lemon soft gather shirt, $139 countryroad.com.au Grid dress with slip, $115 elkaccessories.com Daisy dress, $65 featherandnoise.com.au

Lemon broderie midi dress, $279 countryroad.com.au

Nude Shirt Dress, $249 countryroad.com.au Dana tank - check, $110 nancybird.com 43

BENTLEIGH

Tiny Tot Nannies are Australia’s fastest growing agency with the lowest prices.

This Spring we have a vast array of childcarers who are ready to join your family.

Live out nannies • Au pairs Live in nannies • Casual Babysitters Mothers help • Housekeepers CONTACT US Maddison Licciardo Maddison@tinytotnannies.com 0438 231 515 Paige Stuart-Murray paige@tinytotnannies.com 0477 755 405 20% OFF SPRING SPECIAL! Contact us now for a free quote!

www.tinytotnannies.com

Established for over 50 years, we're committed to continuing the Keith Cakes tradition in Bayside and our chefs still produce our fabulous range according to the original recipes.

Cupcakes & Treats Celebration Cakes Children’s Cakes Dessert Cakes Health Cakes Savouries Catering

46 Church St Brighton | Ph: 9592 8070 www.keithcakes.com.au 44

Everything for baby and kids!

New and second hand items available

Every 3rd Saturday of the month!

15th October 9am - 12.30pm St Johns Church Hall, Corner of Tucker and Centre Road, Bentleigh Coffee Truck and Sausage Sizzle Stalls $25 each. www.trybooking.com/JUJE For more info call 9557 2226

Music classes English classes Singing lessons

Arts and craft Baby class Tango & Ballet

Enjoy a variety of musical, art, dance and language lessons. We provide fun and engaging group lessons for all ages as well as private tuition to enhance your skills in your chosen area.

First music & art lesson FREE

213 Tucker Road, McKinnon

0431 714 763 info@bumblebeeartscentre.com.au Check us out at bumblebeeartscentre.com.au Live Local - Shop Local - and don’t forget to mention MamaMag!

WIN

the new album from The Wiggles’ Emma or Lachy!

The “Dial E for Emma” and “Lachy!” albums are out on October 7 through ABC Kids and Universal Music, on CD and all digital services, and mama is a bit excited about new their new tunes!

We’ve got 3 of each of these awesome albums to be won, so simply select your album below and post us your best Wiggles

See www.mamamag.com.au for terms and conditions. Parent’s email will be added to our monthly MamaMail. You can opt out at any time.

colouring in!

Emma

Lachy

Post your entry by October 31st to: MamaMag, PO Box 8018 North Road LPO, Brighton East 3187.

Child’s name:

Age:

Parent’s name: Email: Address:

Postcode: 45

A unique program offering children the freedom to explore, inspire and create through art and messy play

age m o n s 20 t 8 y e h s to ars

www.messmatters.com.au info@messmatters.com.au 0425 808 219 Factory 4, 3 Exley Drive, Moorabbin

Make your child’s next party fantastic at Bricktastic Invent, explore and construct using LEGO® • LEGO® themed party room • Engaging & fun for boys & girls • Professionally developed age appropriate party programs • Experienced & friendly Bricktastic hosts

46

Live Local - Shop Local - and don’t forget to mention MamaMag!

SATURDAY

15TH OCTOBER 11AM-3PM

Location:

Treasury Gardens -

corner of Lansdowne St and Wellington Parade (Tram 48 and 75)

Australia and New Zealand designer clothes and toys for stylish little people, 0-7.

Attractions: Jumping castle , market stalls, info centre, photo booth,

face painting, animal farm,

143 Ormond Road Elwood P: 0421 335 900 E: hellowillow@outlook.com hellowillow.com.au @hellowillowstore

• S A N D R I N G H A M

soccer, video games and more !

Supported by:

TM

Register: http://littledreamersonline.com/events/ Designed by: For more information visit: Creative Monster www.littledreamersonline.com

H O T E L •

Fun soccer classes for kids 1.5 ­7

Free trial classes now available!

Call us on 9593 9781

All of Oct �� ��� ��� ��� ������ ��� � ��� EvR d �un�ay ��th �ro� ������ Live Polka Music 1eer Wenches & Giveaways

���� ��� 58 25

SANDRINGHAM HOTEL • CNR BAY & BEACH RDS, SANDRINGHAM VIC 9598 7255 • SANDRINGHAM.HOTEL@ALHGROUP.COM.AU sandringhamhotel.com.au

www.littlekickers.com.au Live Local - Shop Local - and don’t forget to mention MamaMag!

47