Port Phillip MamaMag October 2015

port phillip

October 2015

WIN a one month gym membership at f45 training Health & Wellbeing Smiling minds Bed wetting Power of suggestion ASD and me

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3

Happy health This time of the year is birthday season in my family.

As I write this, today is my birthday! Working on my birthday would normally suck, however when you LOVE what you do, it’s not really working is it? I finally got my Veggie Patch for the birthday. I’ve had a blissful day with the family, full of adventure, planting the veggies, basking in the sun and I’m so happy to be back in good health to fully enjoy it! How crazy was that virus going around - it knocked me out for a good 6 weeks!

And I’ve actually missed working. So it’s apt, that this month we’re talking all things health and wellbeing.

How do you take time to look after yourself? As a mum, you’re usually the epicentre of the family constantly making sure everyone else is ready, fed, dressed, happy and meeting their busy social calendars. More so in our grandparent’s day, the village raised a child. I feel sometimes that we can be isolated in our parenting ventures. Like anything in life, a journey shared makes for a better ride! And it helps our mental health to celebrate our wins and share the harder times too.

In the vein of health and wellness, our fearless boss lady Sarah took to a six-week fitness challenge at The Woodshed with none other than Sam Woods - The Batch!

Snez may have won his heart, but I believe our Sarah has been his best work to date!

She smashed her challenge of losing 6 kilos in 6 weeks, by weighing in 6 days early!

This meant she looked even more gorgeous for AusMumpreneur awards night. We didn’t come home with the gold, however met many inspiring Mamas in business, so that is gold in itself. After the big weigh in and Bachie declaring Sarah #legend status, we did celebrate with some smashed avo on toast! Sarah has been so disciplined and motivated and it has totally inspired everyone at MamaMag HQ. Hopefully her journey, documented inside, can give you a bit of inspo too. It’s amazing what you can achieve when you set your mind to it. The MamaMag team also smashed the Connor’s Run 9.6km run, get the scoop on that inside too. I was sad to be a casualty, still on antibiotics, however the sun was shining and my spirits were high. Now that I’m back in health, I’m ready to take on a new challenge - running has always been a great release for me, to clear the head and get lost in the rhythm of the run. Find what works for you and make it a priority of your time. Jump on our F45 promo this month!

I think if we lead by example, live an active life ourselves, which ultimately will give us a good dose of endorphins (an excellent warrior in our own health), our kids will shadow. And always take time for yourself, easier said than done. However I truly believe this has to be a priority. I’m a better mum, when I look after myself. Until next time, enjoy the gorgeous rays of Spring!

@localmamamag

WIN

Contents Smiling minds Mindfulness for young minds

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6kg in 6 weeks Editor Sarah’s fitness challenge

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Bed wetting Will my child grow out of this?

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Any suggestions?

Kids and well timed suggestion

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Whole Kids AusMumpreneur awards wrap-up

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1 of 3 one-month membershIps at f45 traInIng Sth Melbourne

Parklife 18 Westport Reserve Port Melbourne Early childhood It’s all about play

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Mama of the month 22 Emma Masterton from EJM Photography

Visit our Facebook page to enter

Brain matters 24 The Robert Connor Dawes Foundation

To learn more about F45 functional training visit www.f45training.com.au/southmelbourne

www.facebook.com/localmamamag Entries open to Victorian residents only. Competition starts October 1st 12.01am and closes October 31st 2015 at 11.59pm.

Visit mamamag.com.au for full terms and conditions. New members only.

ASD and SPD X3 Plus ADHD! Tales from the mum

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Mama can cook Healthy food morning and night

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Are you ready for school?

Kindergarten transition

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MamaMag is published monthly for the mums of the Port Phillip area by Grizzle Design Pty Ltd.

Pass the packet Avoiding packet foods

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ABN: 26 042 138 550. PO Box 8018 Brighton East VIC 3187 Phone: 1300 771 446 Email: info@mamamag.com.au www.mamamag.com.au

A flexible return to work What you need to know

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Share my job The win-win solution

37

Family violence A mother’s story

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Lovely locals We explore Fitzroy St and surrounds

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Bratz dolls colouring comp

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Shape a child for life Play and attachment

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MamaMag October 2015

5,000 copies are distributed monthly.

Editor in Chief: Sarah Cavalier Port Phillip Editor: Kirsty Chick Sales and Marketing: Kate Thompson Design and Layout: Grizzle Design Like to contribute an article submission or products for Facebook giveaways? submissions@mamamag.com.au Like to advertise in our next month’s issue? info@mamamag.com.au or download our media kit from www.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.

smiling minds Mindfulness for growing young minds Mindfulness for kids is about empowering them to pay attention to what’s happening inside themselves and in the world around them.

Smiling Mind is modern meditation for young people. It is a unique web and app-based program, designed to help bring balance to young lives and support mental health strategies to cope with everyday stressors.

Smiling Mind is a not-for-profit initiative based on a process that provides a sense of calm, clarity and contentment.

Alarming evidence about the mental health of young Australians shows that around one in seven (13.9%) children and adolescents aged 4-17 years experienced a mental health issue in the last year, which is equivalent to an estimated 560,000 young Australians*.

Smiling Mind is striving to turn this around by supporting young minds to prevent ill mental health. The Smiling Mind app is a very accessible tool for young people who often suffer undetected mental health issues; in Australia around 44% of cases do not seek treatment.*

How can mindfulness support the growth of a young mind?

Mindfulness is a simple form of meditation where one pays attention to the present moment, with purpose and without judgment.

Mindfulness meditation focuses the brain and promotes being mindful of the present moment instead of worrying, dwelling in the past or reacting to what is happening. Regular practice of mindfulness meditation reduces the reactivity of the amygdala and increases activity in areas of the prefrontal cortex that help regulate emotions, and reduce stress and anxiety. Consciously being mindful physically changes the structure and function of the brain 6

to improve the quality of both thought and feeling, whilst also promoting positive mood and building emotional resilience.

For young minds in particular mindfulness meditation is used to promote the ability to focus on classroom activities and foster creativity. Mindfulness practice promotes self-confidence and self-esteem, development of emotional intelligence, ability to respond mindfully to stressful situations and to quiet the mind of anxious thoughts.

“The Smiling Mind program is wonderful for small children as it teaches them how to let go and relax; it talks them through it in a fun way.

The result of our practice was quite incredible, there was a definite reduction in playtime issues and general anxiety related to work, play or home. The children’s ability to remain engaged in class and their learning results also improved due to their newfound focus and lack of anxiety,” says Miss Lamming, a teacher who introduced the Smiling Mind program to her primary class.

“I put my hands on my head and did mindful breathing, and my mood changed to happiness because I’m aware of my body.”

“It’s a way of being brave and facing yourself.”

Mindfulness expert and Smiling Mind ambassador, Dr Craig Hassed, says “The world needs mindfulness and in this fast-paced, stressed and distracted world, the children of today probably need it more than any previous generation. Smiling Mind is taking mindfulness meditation to where it is needed most – into the hearts and minds of young people. It’s more than just a technique, and more than just a lifeskill. Mindfulness is a way of life.”

Smiling Mind is conducting their own research about the efficacy of mindfulness in schools, where over 1500 Victorian public secondary and primary students and 135 teachers from 12 schools are taking part in a trial with the hope of producing evidence of Smiling Mind’s mental health benefits for students and of fulfilling its vision for “mindfulness meditation to be on the curriculum by 2020,” says Smiling Mind Cofounder Jane Martino.

Meditation is for everyone, that’s why Smiling Mind is “creating a modern approach to meditation that young people will more easily adapt into their hi-tech, busy lifestyles, assisting them to cope better with some of the stresses young people experience today” says Martino.

In collaboration with beyondblue, Smiling Mind has developed a free tool for new and expecting mothers and couples. Mind the Bump is an app designed to support mental and emotional wellbeing in preparation for having a baby and becoming new parents.

Download Smiling Mind and Mind the Bump free on Google Play and the iTunes App Store.

*The Australian Government Department of Health 2015, The Mental health of children and adolescents, Report on the second Australian Child and Adolescent Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing

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6kg in 6 weeks Sure not every mama has time to train at the gym 5 times a week, but after gaining 10kg in the last 3 years since being back in Melbourne, when Sam (The Bachelor) Wood asked me to come and do a fitness challenge with him to celebrate the impending opening of his new gym, I was hardly going to say no!

As a business owner, working countless hours (and weekends) on MamaMag, I am always putting work (and the kids) before myself.

And as a single mum I’m not blessed with the opportunity for fitness outside of school hours.

So I decided it was time for some me-time. I will take an hour out of my day each day and commit to Sam’s program, aiming to lose 6kg in 6 weeks through healthy eating and exercise and I’m here to share my journey with you.

Day One:

Met with Sam at The Woodshed today. Even though I knew him pre-Bach, it’s hard not to be a little shy knowing he is about to become the biggest thing on tv, especially as I discuss how I’ve put on weight due to my busy life, how I struggle to manage the kids, how lunches are improper and rushed, and dinners are bland and carb based to please the kids. But he was so lovely and filled me with the confidence that if I really put my mind to it, I could achieve some fabulous results in 6 weeks.

He even suggested the confidence it would bring could result in me finding the man of my dreams at the end, although just quietly I think he is already sitting opposite me!

Sam measured and weighed me (awkward!), snuck in a quick ‘before’ photo then got me straight to work. My plan is three group PT sessions a week, some interval running on Tuesdays in my own time, Thursdays follow his workout program in the gym and Saturdays a long run on my own. Sunday is rest day. My diet is limited to 1200 calories and we discuss what I should be eating. Avoid the grains and carbs for optimal weight loss, up the greens and small meals at night. 3L of water too. He doesn’t give me a strict itemised diet. He knows I know what

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I should eat, it’s more a matter of committing to doing that. But when you have Sam weighing you every week, one tends to make a decision to be strict. Weight loss here I come!

Starting weigh in: 70.85kg

Day Three: Following Sam’s gym

program this morning. Going great till I get to the 1km on the treadmill at the end on elevation 5. I’ll never make the distance so I drop it back to 2, but by the end I’m feeling the burn big time. It’s only then I notice I have it set to Miles not Km’s so I’ve really run 1.6km.

Rookie mistake!

Day Four: And my 4th day in a row of

2 group PT sessions and 2 days in the gym following Sam’s program. I don’t think I have ever worked out four days running and boy am I feeling it. The gorgeous Joss, this morning’s trainer, laughs at me as I wobble through the lunges, but says I’m doing ace for day four. I cherish the encouragement. My diet is amazing, some scrambled eggs and ham (no bread) for breakfast, vegie and chicken soup for lunch that I made myself last night (very unlike me), some meatballs and a spinach salad for dinner. Just knowing I am fueling my body with all the right stuff makes me feel awesome. I’m back at my desk by 10.30 for the rest of the day’s work and I am feeling massively empowered. Weigh in: 70.65kg. Slow start, can’t wait for next week.

Day Seven: After a hard group PT session

yesterday I’m in the gym for a one-on-one with Sam this morning. 2 boiled eggs on some spinach for breakfast should get me through this. There were lunges, boxing, stair runs, planking, all sorts of goodness. None of it was easy, and I feel quite hot. Could just be staring at Sam between the boxing pads, but no, I think I might be getting sick. Aint nobody got time for that. Cooked spag bol for dinner and had my meat on a bowl of steamed vegies instead of the pasta I cooked for the kids. Suprising how eating well make me feel mentally awesome!

What Mama ate Here are a few of my standard go-to options, all super easy and fuss free.

Breakfast:

Just putt I’ve got a fe ing it out there.

The word ‘lo w wobbly bits to lose ! ve handle’ sp rings to min d!

Scrambled eggs with some shaved ham, no toast.

Two soft boiled eggs on a bed of baby spinach with a few chopped almonds on top and a little salt and pepper.

Fresh strawberries and blueberries with Jalna natural fat free yoghurt.

Lunch:

Tuna in springwater with salad. wall uite like a g. ys burn q Nothing sa the sun was shinin st sit. At lea

Left over meat from dinner with Kale Coleslaw from Coles (you have to try it!).

Soft boiled egg and smoked salmon on greens.

Feeling super positive tod ay in my new Positive Pants gear! Hot !

Dinner:

Spag bolognese for the kids, serve mine on steamed greens instead of pasta.

Pan fried (no oil) eye fillet with mixed vegies

Snacks:

Wednesday morning group PT with the Jossman. It’s going to hurt tomorrow!

Almonds, boiled eggs, tuna, ham, strawberries, frozen raspberries.

and measure.

The final weigh in ure up!? as me I d di How

Massive thanks to Sam and the guys at The Woodshed PLUS 2XU Australia and Positive Pants for my awesome training gear

i. e Spaghett without th and veg. e es n g lo Bo was meat Every night s, no potato.

No grain

I think it is fair to say the re has been some improvement!

10cm gone from my tummy, tick!

www.atthewoodshed.com.au www.2xu.com.au www.positivepants.com.au 9

Day 10: It’s weigh in day again. Eeek. Meet Sam before my group PT class and I’m so nervous about if I’ve made any progress after a slow start. I’ve been eating like a machine though. Haven’t had ANY bread, potato or grains. After 10 days I don’t even miss these things and I’m well under my 1200 cals a day too. Weigh in: 69.85kg. 1kg down, 5 to go!

Day 11: I was right, I was getting sick. Sore

throat, cough, so tired I can hardly move. I’m meant to run 8km today. Not going to happen.

But I will eat well, I promise.

Day 14: Not strong enough for group PT

but I’m feeling a lot better. Fastest flu ever!

Hopefully these 3 days off are not too much of a setback.

Day 18: Today is my birthday and I am meeting Sam for a weigh in. But he’s not here, had a radio interview. So I sneak upstairs before group PT and discover I’m just over 2kg down. High five from Joss, feeling awesome.

Dinner at Hotel Brighton, but I have the prawn salad to counteract my 4 cheeky wines.

Weigh in 68.7kg.

Day 20: Kids are away this weekend, so I

get up early Sunday and go for a run along the beach. One of my favorite things to do. Clears the mind and I am finding it a bit easier than usual with my increased fitness. Win!

Day 23: Weigh in before group PT – 67.85kg. Exactly 3kg down. 3kg to go! I’m amazed at how much easier the exercises are getting. I’ve almost nailed the plank. But that doesn’t mean I like it!

Day 34: I skipped my run yesterday as today is Connor’s Run. 9.6km from St Kilda to the Yarra with 2500 other wonderful supporters.

The run is hard, which I think is due to the heat.

It’s a wonderful 20-something day. After the run I meet the kids at the beach and then we tottle off to a kinder play in the park. There may have been a couple of sneaky wines. It was too hard to say no in this divine sunshine! I hope this doesn’t show on Wednesday. Did I just have a blow out 3 days before deadline? Oops.

Day 36: It’s magazine print deadline this

week, so I am frightfully busy. But I also need some time out before my head explodes. So I run 4km to the gym, do a 20min workout (arms and abs) then run back home. Last minute dash before tomorrow’s weigh in. 2 boiled eggs for breakfast, a third for lunch with a bit of ham.

Day 37: It’s here... final weigh in day.

Technically I still have 5 more days to hit 6kg and to be honest I’m not overly confident I’ve got there early. But with Sam away from tomorrow, and print deadline the next day, we have to do final measurements today.

And the result...

Final weigh in: 64.7kg.

I have dropped a massive 6.15kg, lost 10cm off my tummy and 8.5cm off my hips in 5 weeks.

I am beyond excited and Sam is super proud.

Sam’s new gym The Woodshed opens in October at 643 Nepean Highway Brighton East. If you are after some great individual or group PT, this is your place ladies!

Day 26: AusMumpreneur Conference.

How am I going to manage this one? They served pastries for morning and afternoon tea.

I had a mandarin. Made it through the awards night with just 1 glass of bubbles though.

Lucky I didn’t win, I wouldn’t have been able to hold back! I got the beef, didn’t eat the mash, all good!

Day 28: Weigh in: 66.65kg. Whoop whoop!

4.2kg down in 4 weeks. I’ve totally got this in the bag!

Day 32: Snuck upstairs to the scales before class as I’m worried about my final weigh in with Sam before he sneaks off for batch duties next week. Weigh in: 65.65kg. Dropped a kilo in 4 days.

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Winners are grin an awesome ners! Thanks Sam for 5 continue on weeks. Can’t wait to this healthy journey!

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Bedwetting – will my child GRow out of this?

If you are tired of washing and drying bedsheets from constant wetting, you are not alone. Bedwetting is common in young children. Most children become dry at night between the ages of 3 and 5. But 20% of five year olds still wet the bed at night. Most of these children will stop wetting in early primary school, but 1% will continue into their teens.

Children do not wet the bed on purpose; it is not under their control. Getting angry or upset with them or offering rewards for dry nights will not help.

The best way to deal with bed-wetting in young children is to give lots of reassurance that bedwetting is normal and common and they will grow out of it. Talking about an adult in their life who was also a bed-wetter usually puts children at ease and helps them feel less alone.

Reading books can also help. Some good ones are Dippy’s sleepover by Jane Clarke, Sammy the Elephant and Mr Carmel by Joyce Mills and David’s Secret Soccer Goals by Caroline Devine.

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Restricting sugary or caffeinated drinks can also help.

Bedwetting, known in medical terms as nocturnal enuresis, tends to run in families.

There are different causes. It may simply be that the brain has not learnt to make the connection between the feeling of a full bladder and needing to void. It may be that the child has not yet started to produce the antidiuretic hormone (ADH). ADH concentrates the urine overnight so our bladders don’t become so full. It’s also possible that children who are deep sleepers simply don’t wake up to go to the toilet.

Urinary tract infections, constipation and other health conditions may also cause bed-wetting.

Before starting any treatment it is essential to have a health check to make sure there are no other medical reasons for the wetting.

Wearing night-nappies makes bedwetting more manageable for everyone, but may also extend the bedwetting as it takes away the discomfort of waking up in a cold, wet bed. Likewise,

restricting fluids at night may reduce wetting, but fails to teach your child to deal with a full bladder (and could lead to dehydration).

Some children will have a period of dryness, and begin to wet the bed again later on. Often, these episodes are triggered by a stressful event in their life such as parents separating, starting kindergarten or moving home. Most children will stop wetting again when the stress levels reduce.

Tips for dealing with wet sheets: • Making the bed twice – mattress protector, sheet and again, mattress protector and sheet – makes it easier to handle wet accidents at night, as the first layer can be peeled off and the bed is made, ready to go back to sleep.

• Use a bed-wetting sheet. These are 1x1 m absorbent sheets that sit on the bed over the child’s sheet.

Tips for encouraging dry nights • Give your child lots of reassurance that it won’t last forever.

• For children over 6 years, do bed-checks for a week and work out about what time of night your child is wetting. If you find a regular pattern you can then wake up your child half an hour earlier than the estimated time. Take your child to the toilet, but make sure your child is fully awake to void in the toilet.

• Have a reward system for remembering to go to the toilet before bed.

• Get older children to take ownership of their wetting by asking them to remove their wet sheets and take them to the laundry. Explain to your child that this is not a punishment; it is about taking responsibility for their issue.

From age six, many children become selfconscious about bed-wetting, particularly when going on sleepovers or school camps.

If your child starts to show signs of distress, seek professional help.

Doctors sometimes recommend a synthetic DHA medication to help children stay dry.

This can be helpful short-term, such as when your child is going on school camp, but is not recommended long-term as it does not teach your child how to stop the bedwetting.

If you are going to try this make sure you do so weeks before the event. It does not work for all children.

For children over 6 years of age, the most effective treatment is the Bell and Pad alarm.

This consists of a mat with small electrodes placed under the child on the bed. The electrodes are very sensitive to moisture and set off a high-pitched alarm at the first urine drop. This wakes the child up immediately and teaches them to wake up and go to the toilet instead. Within 6 to 10 weeks of this treatment 80% of children become dry. Some children will start to wet again within 6 months, but a quick response with another stint of the bell and pad tends to deal with this.

Where to get help There are specialised clinics for enuresis in both the private and public sectors. Specialists can include continence nurses, psychologists or paediatricians. The first point of call is your GP.

By Marisa Baschuk, Psychologist Moving Mindsets www.movingmindsets.com.au

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any suggestions?

Kids and the power of well-timed suggestion As a therapist I’ve learned how to identify the moments at which people are more likely to accept suggestions.

At these times they are open to altering their way of thinking in order to broaden the range of options they believe are available to them.

When using clinical hypnotherapy in my practice I take my clients through a process of relaxation, so that they can enter a state of quiet introspective absorption. At this point their critical factor is more relaxed; when I recognise the signs that they have reached this state I can then apply the therapy relating to the issues we’ve discussed during the counselling part of our session. The client is open to new ideas, as long as they fall within the bounds of their values.

When children are drifting off to sleep they enter a similar state. There is a window of opportunity at this point for the observant parent or carer to give the child suggestions to increase their self-esteem and boost their confidence. It is the ideal time to reinforce to the child that they are loved and accepted for who they are, because at this time they will accept it at a far deeper level than when it’s said as they wander off to class or on a playdate surrounded by distractions.

Children love to use their imagination, so they respond incredibly well to metaphor. They live the experience of their imaginary creations, playing the role of dinosaur or princess with a commitment that would be the envy of the greatest method actor. When the child’s imagination is engaged they are in a trancelike state of focused absorption, exactly as I described earlier. This again presents a

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wonderful opportunity for confidence building by the parent. One way this can be initiated is by allowing your child to tell you a story; maybe give them some loose plotlines and encourage them to construct a tale around them. Children identify very closely with the stories they create themselves. The content of their story can then be used to give them positive affirmations, using their own language characters and imagery as a basis for a metaphor which will be personally meaningful to them. For example, if they’ve constructed a story in which they are “Princess Ella”, you can suggest at bedtime that “Princess Ella” is feeling so loved and safe as she is tucked up in bed, she knows that she is loved exactly as she is”. If your child is experiencing a problem, being bullied for example, “Princess Ella” might experience bullying too, and she would know deep down that “it’s not her fault and that she can say No firmly, walk away and tell a grown-up”.

If your child is feeling nervous about something like an upcoming athletics day or a school play, this is a great opportunity to spin a very evocative tale about a positive outcome. You do this by engaging all of their senses, describing the sights, sounds, smells and the feelings that will be experienced, for example, “running towards the finish line, you feel the cool air on your red face, you can smell the grass and your breath is hot, the sound of the crowd cheering hits your ears, and you feel yourself trying as hard as you can, and your legs are working hard and feeling tired, your heart is beating fast, you see that finish line, closer and closer, at last you throw yourself over the finish line and you think “yayyy I’ve done it!!” You feel fantastic, your heart is still beating hard, your friends (name some...) are patting you on the

back and saying well done (use your child’s name)!” etc. This has engaged all of your child’s senses to make it a very real experience for them. They can add in their own observations as you go along. If your child is not enthused about participating you can use their favourite character and evoke the experience through them.

In your child’s mind they have now lived the experience, and the idea of undertaking it in reality will be less daunting.

When a child is daydreaming they are also in a highly suggestable state, so choose your language particularly carefully when you find them gazing off into space. Remember they are open to suggestion, and once that suggestion has entered their mind it may form the basis of a belief.

Georgina Mitchell is a professional counsellor, psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist at Hypfocus Therapies and Training.

Georgina works from locations in www.hypfocus.com.au

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whole kids We meet the inspiring Monica Meldrum Editor-in-chief Sarah Cavalier was fortunate to not only be a finalist at the recent AusMumpreneur awards, but also to attend the AusMumpreneur two day conference and hear the inspiring Port Phillip mama Monica Meldrum speak about her journey creating Whole Kids, Australia’s leading brand of organic, healthy kids snacks.

Not surprisingly, Monica took out the coveted AusMumprenuer of the Year Award at the amazing gala dinner held on September 5th as well. We were absolutely thrilled for her and couldn’t wait to share her journey and inspiration behind Whole Kids with you.

My name is Monica. I have two children, Chloe (5) and Sam (1).

My business, Whole Kids, provides Australia’s largest range of organic, allergy free health foods for children, the proceeds of which are also helping to fund kids’ health and environmental projects.

The inspiration for Whole Kids came about while travelling to Indonesia to deliver an aid program to children living in poverty.

At the time I vowed to make a difference to children’s health.

On returning to Australia I noticed a sharp increase in food related illnesses amongst children. The more I looked into this, the more it bothered me. Products produced by big food companies were heavily processed, contained ingredients I couldn’t pronounce and were being marketed as healthy.

After several meetings with a dietician at the Royal Children’s Hospital and some local organic growers, I came up with a range of products, and decided to tackle the issue head on.

With the products I had developed, my husband and I headed off to the inaugural Organic Expo in Sydney. We made a promise to each other that if our products were well received we would throw in our “proper jobs” and devote all of our energy to Whole Kids. The response was overwhelming!

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Since then our business has grown to become Australia’s leading brand of organic and additive free foods for kids, providing almost 15 million healthier choices for mums and dads. This year we launched the Whole Kids Small Seeds Community Grants Program, which is helping to fund children’s health, and environmental projects nationally. We are also the first Australian food company to become a B Corporation, which is an international certification that recognises companies that are using the power of business as a force for good.

Last month I was honoured to receive the award for 2015 St George Banking Group Ausmumpreneur of the Year.

The things I love most about being a Mumpreneur are that I am in control of my destiny. I am a role model for my children and I am instilling values in them that they can achieve anything. While realising our vision, I am growing a flexible, family-friendly workplace that enables other mums to also share their skills and experience.

This award is important to me because it gives Whole Kids a voice. The biggest challenge we face is still the marketing power of the big food companies. I believe that food manufacturers should be responsible for the foods they are producing and marketing to children and that Whole Kids has an important role to play in leading the change.

St George Banking Group AusMumpreneur 2015 award winners: AusMumpreneur of the year Award: Monica Meldrum, Whole Kids www.wholekids.com.au Rising Star Award: Alisha Lynch, Naughty Naturopath Mum www.naughtynaturopathmum.com.au Emerging Award: Heather Rowlands, Kippins www.kippins.com.au Business Excellence Award: Casey Bryden, Sunbella www.sunbella.com.au

If you ask me what advice I would give to someone who is thinking about becoming a Mumpreneur, I would have to say it is important to create a very clear picture of what your business looks like and how you plan to grow it.

Don’t be afraid to set some big goals but focus on achieving no more than 3 priorities at any one time. Be confident in your abilities and fearless in your approach. Jump!! Being a Mumpreneur is one of the most liberating things you will ever do!

Digital Innovation Award: Jodie Blight, Hello Table www.hellotable.com.au Product Innovation Award: Kristy Chong, ModiBodi www.modibodi.com.au Sustainability Award: Vinita Baravkar, Bhumi Organic www.bhumi.com.au Retail Business Award: Samantha Spunner, Sinchies www.sinchies.com.au Service Business Award: Kelly McDonald, Garden Babies Fine Fairy Art www.gardenbabiesfinefairyart.com.au Influencer Award: Nikalene Riddle, Skinnymixers www.skinnymixers.com.au Customer Service Award: Nikki Wilkins, Nurture Nest www.nurturenest.com.au Handmade Award: Melanie Fogarty, Beyond the Willow Tree www.beyondthewillowtree.com Making a Difference Award: Kristy Vallely, The Imperfect Mum www.theimperfectmum.com.au The cream of the crop! Make sure you check out these clever mama’s businesses!

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Parklife

MamaMag park of the month!

westport reserve Sandridge Beach The Boulevard Port Melbourne With our little assistant asleep on the job for this assignment, we decided not to risk waking the toddler and explored this one solo. Redeveloped in the last few years, the playground along Westport Reserve enjoys beachfront vistas. The entire Sandridge Beach has seen upgrades in recent years, to improve beach accessibility, wider paths for prams, joggers, walkers and cyclists and lighting. There’s a peaceful tranquility to the area - or perhaps that was just the toddler being angelically pushing out zzz’s!

There are some little but nice shrubs and natural coastal bush surrounding the playground, a perfect landscape for the little explorer.

The actual play structure consists of two sets of swings, a wide seesaw, a boat springer, monkey bars, small rock climbing block leading to the

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small wave slide. There’s also a fireman rope, a climbing step pole as well as stand-alone curved climbing net. Our highlight would have to be the wooden boat leading to the large sandpit pod. A haven for imaginative play, especially looking out towards the sea and the big Spirit of Tasmania in the backdrop!

The playground has bubble taps and a public toilet facility within a couple of hundred metres.

Be sure to bring your bucket and spades for the sandpit, or even move across to the beach.

And don’t forget hats, the shading isn’t great here so slip, slop, slap! There’s a cafe nearby, at Life Saving Victoria, Caps Cafe, open mornings Mon-Friday and Sunday until 2pm - great for a hot drink or a cheap lunch with stunning views, minus the crowds.

TreeHaus is an Allied Health Clinic providing specialised therapies to individuals, couples, children and families.

FEET FOR LIFE p: (03) 8645 9845 childrenspodiatry.com.au 189 Somerville Rd | Yarraville Vic 3013 444 Clarendon St | South Melbourne Vic 3205

• • • • • • • •

Counselling & Psychotherapy Psychoanalysis Psychology Child Assessments Speech Pathology Occupational Therapy Nutrition & Dietetics Art & Music Therapy

Group therapy also available

Medicare rebate available

9397 4499

www.treehauswilliamstown.com.au

2 Cox’s Garden Williamstown 3016

EJM Photography Newborn and Maternity Port Melbourne location

0405 714 219

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

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Early chIldhood It’s all about play A child’s instinct is to play. To run, hop, climb, skip, dance, dig, catch and throw. To roll down hills, to jump waves, to build forts and cubbies.

To make noise, to make mess, to explore.

Play is spontaneous, creative and joyful – for children and their parents and carers.

• Toddlers and pre-schoolers should be physically active for at least three hours spread throughout the day

From birth, children are innately curious about the world and their place in it. Their curiosity is the key to their development.

Watching a hanging mobile spin, playing peek-a-boo, learning to grasp objects, reaching, pointing, crawling – it’s all a game.

Playing and movement is essential for a child’s development. It is one of the most important things parents and carers can share with their children. It is our role to provide safe, suitable, challenging and engaging environments.

• Children younger than two years should not spend any time watching television or using electronic media such as computers and tablets

Children under five are learning to use their bodies. Regular physical activity through play not only improves motor skills and muscle and bone strength, it also develops a sense of self confidence and independence as children learn to handle themselves and develop life skills.

The term physical literacy may sound daunting.

As the basics of literacy are learning the alphabet and the sounds each letter makes, physical literacy enables our children to move competently and confidently, have a fundamental motivation to move and to be active and carry this through life. It is more than being ‘good’ at sport. It is about our children understanding their bodies, how to walk, how to balance, how to move and who they are. It is about self awareness, self confidence and self regulation.

Young children do their best when they are provided with a rich, stimulating environment in which to play. Playing games gives children the freedom to explore and problem solve. It gives them the chance to immerse themselves in imaginary worlds and lose track of time.

How much physical activity do young children need?*

• All children from birth to five years should not be sedentary, restrained or kept inactive for more than one hour at a time (with the exception of sleeping) • Infants (birth – 12 months) require regular physical activity through supervised floorbased play, which should be encouraged from birth

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How much time screen time can they have?*

• Children aged two – five years should spend no more than one hour a day sitting and watching television or using other electronic media

What is physical literacy and why is it important?

* Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines, Australian Government Department of Health

Young children can easily develop their physical literacy skills through active play. Being active comes naturally to most children. As parents and carers all we need to do is to provide a safe space and take the time to join in and play, as well as providing opportunities for children to play by themselves. Most parents and carers probably provide their children with regular active play experiences without realising.

Examples of active play include: • Free play outdoors • Dancing and singing • Imaginative play and pretend games • Hide and seek and other action games

The importance of physical activity in the early years Movement is essential for children to learn about themselves and their environment.

Regular physical activity: • Improves social and motor skills • Gives children a sense of accomplishment • Helps develop a sense of self • Increases school readiness • Increases learning capacity • Builds muscle and bone strength • Develops social, emotional and cognitive skills • Improves self confidence and concentration • Increases attention span • Creates lifelong healthy habits • Brings a sense of joy and achievement

The Bluearth approach to physical activity in early childhood

At Bluearth, we encourage parents and carers to simply play with their children. Get down on the floor and be fully involved in their games.

Head outside. Explore parks, sand pits, gardens, trees or the beach. Take the lead sometimes, but also follow the child’s lead. To allow a child to explore freely without any direction is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children.

Bluearth run early childhood programs that seek to create an enjoyable and engaging environment where children can explore how their minds and bodies help them move, how they can expend a lot of energy, and how to rest and relax.

Bluearth Foundation is a national health promotion charity, working to improve the health and wellbeing of our kids, one step at a time. You can find out more and make a donation at www.bluearth.org

MAMA of the month Introducing newborn, maternity and children’s photographer, Emma Masterton. Emma’s passion for photography was born back in her late high school days. After having kids, her love of photography rekindled with a purpose to capture her children grow. Two years ago, that passion resulted in the launch of EJM Photography based in Port Melbourne.

Of course you’re a mum, that’s why you’re here! Tell us a little about your children...

What has been the biggest learning journey in growing your business?

I have 3 children, Marcus (9) is a sports fanatic who loves the Sydney Swans.

The biggest learning journey would be marketing, it is a huge world and so many different ideas and ways of marketing. I am still learning and will continue to learn until I master it!!

Madison (8), is a lover of netball, gymnastics and any teddy she can adopt.

And my youngest Tyler (2) our little man who makes every one of us smile everyday.

What about photography draws you in?

The creativity. I love following other photographer’s work and seeing what amazing things they come up with, it inspires me to be as creative as I can and drives me to want to continue to learn.

What advice do you have for other aspiring business mums?

If the passion is there, then run with it! Do everything possible to make it happen.

Don’t give up! If there is a quiet period take that time to work on marketing or learning something new for your business.

What inspires you?

My inspiration for my love of photography comes from Ana Brandt and my 3 little munchkins. If I didn’t have their little faces to practice on every time I had a new idea I wouldn’t be where I am today.

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My inspiration for my business comes from my fiance - Marcus.

Watching how hard he has worked within his own business over the past 11 years is definitely something to strive towards. He has solely provided not only for our family but for the start up of my business.

He has done nothing but support me and my business and help build what it is today and I can’t thank him enough.

What is your favourite part of what you do?

Meeting so many different, amazing people!

It is such a special time in their lives so to be able to not only capture this special time for them but to chat with them about it, is pretty unique.

And of course there is nothing better than having newborn cuddles.

Why should parents get professional newborn photos taken?

I am a mum of 3 and I remember when my first son was a baby people kept telling me they grow too fast.

I now end up saying that to most of my newborn clients. It really does go too fast, especially the newborn stage! So enjoy it and capture it. Capture those little feet and hands, those lips and that little newborn grin and capture it well. Hire a newborn photographer to get the most amazing pictures you can, so when your child is older, you can look back together and remember just how small and cute they were in those first days of life.

We’re talking all things health and fitness this month, how do you look after yourself?

I go to the gym as much I can, I also try and walk to my local shop instead of driving. I try and eat as healthy as I can but the odd chocolate does sneak in!!

Do you have any funny parenting stories to give us a giggle…

Oh there are many! But one of my favourites is when my daughter was 4 she was running around the house with a sheet over her head pretending to be a ghost.

Instead of saying “I’m a ghost” she was yelling out ‘’I’m a goose I’m a goose’’.

Motherhood has taught me…

That our bodies are a amazing.

Unconditional love really exists.

I can survive on little sleep.

A messy house is ok.

My car will never be clean.

To do whatever works for me.

Find Emma at www.ejmphotography.com.au

brain matters Today, brain cancer is the most fatal of all childhood cancers. Current clinical treatments only help 50% of children, but leave 90% with lifelong physical and mental impairments.

This is why brain tumours are so devastating. It’s time to change the odds. To make brain tumours go the way of the dinosaurs. To support the science and in the meantime the patients.

Inspired by a big heart and brain, the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation was created in June 2013 in the memory of Robert Connor Dawes, a Melbourne who fought a 16 month battle with an ependymoma brain tumour and sadly lost his battle in April 2013.

Last month the 3rd annual Connor’s Run was held and this year they raised $400,000, 15% more than their goal!

AboutThe Robert Connor Dawes Foundation The RCD Foundation supports brain matters in the areas of research, care and development. Their overall goal is to support ALL paediatric brain cancer research in Australia, to make sure that kids today get the best available treatment, and that future brain cancer fighters have better options.

How is the fundrasing used?

The RCD Foundation establish relationships and fund projects all over Australia. Specifically this means continuing to fund projects like the Head of Neuro Oncology at the Royal Children’s Hospital, PhD researchers and Post Doctorate fellows at the Brain Cancer Discovery Collaborative and more.

And after expanding the Music Therapy ‘Music Matters Grants’, we’re planning on introducing a Yoga Therapy grant program in the next few months.

There’s lots to do when we’re up against the number 1 cancer killer in kids in Australia. But the momentum you’re creating by participating in Connor’s Run, spreading the word and fundraising, is making an impact.

These funds came from teams supporting mates going through their own challenges. They came from our sponsors going well beyond what one could expect from busy companies.

They came from heartfelt emails sent out to colleagues and clients.

And from generous sacrifices of pocket-money. All of these, great and small have made an impact.

Thank you.

Thank you for showing the world the brain is where the heart lives.

To make a donation to The Robert

Connor Dawes Foundation visit rcdfoundation.org

Fundraising is how we are able to keep Connor’s Run the fun community event it is while still making a big impact for patients and families with our brain matters projects.

Thanks for all your effort in fundraising and supporting others.

- Liz Dawes, Executive Director & Connor’s Mum 24

Mums - spend a little time on yourself and rejuvenate for Spring!

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Educational kids toys & gifts for ages 0-5 Hair cuts for kids, men & women Color & cuts with 25yrs experience The Chocolate Lover’s Kitchen award winning hand made chocolates

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ASD and SPD x3 plus ADHD! About three and a half years ago my life changed completely. I was referred to a paediatrician after my MCHN could see that I was not coping with my son Oliver’s out of control behaviour.

After a relatively short process I was shocked to hear he was autistic. I always knew there was something different about him but autism? It never would have crossed my mind in a million years! I, like most people who have limited knowledge on ASD automatically thought of Rain Man and also the severely autistic kids who need permanent personal care that I occasionally saw on the news.

During the diagnostic process, as my knowledge of the neurological disorder grew, it wasn’t long before I realised my eldest son Sebastian must be on the spectrum too. My sweet little quirky kid who was speaking in sentences at nine months, taught himself how to read before he could walk, memorised half of the periodic table before he was three and could do complex maths equations before he started school, but who also had no friends, didn’t enjoy parties, and had massive overreactions to things that wouldn’t bother most people. Suddenly all of his odd behaviour made sense!

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I got a crash course in ASD after Sebastian was diagnosed a few weeks after Olly. All at once there was talk of psychology and occupational therapy and speech therapy and funding – it was overwhelming! But as hard as it was, I threw myself into therapy with the boys and read and watched everything I could on autism.

Kobe, my youngest, was two and a half then.

He had been such a good baby, a great sleeper, a perfect feeder but looking back I realised he was too content to just sit and stare into space.

He didn’t say much until after he turned one, but like Sebastian, he had also taught himself to read before he was 18 months old.

After a day trip to the early assessment clinic, Kobe was also diagnosed with autism just eight months after his two brothers.

I really struggled to come to terms with the fact that my boys had a disorder that is going to affect them for the rest of their lives. I couldn’t cope with all of the stress, anxiety and worry and ended up hitting rock bottom myself. But I finally dragged myself to the doctor and asked for help. This was the pivotal point for me where things started to get better and I actually felt like I could help my beautiful boys to succeed in life. With my doctor’s help and my emotions under control I felt empowered to do everything I could to help the boys cope with their lives and their emotions.

We were very lucky to be referred to some amazing therapists; they became like mentors for me and taught me so much. Our wonderful psychologist helped me learn so many strategies which helped our volatile household to calm down, our OT came to our house and created a more comfortable environment for my family and Sebastian benefited from attending a Social Group with his speech therapist.

I was also very fortunate to be welcomed into a wonderful ASD parent support group and I can’t thank the amazing people enough who helped me through the toughest year of my life.

I have made some fabulous friendships since our journey with ASD began and I will be forever grateful for all of the support and kindness I have been given.

I now help run the support group and I am so happy to be able to help others the way others helped me.

My boys also have Sensory Processing Disorder which means that their brains and nervous systems misinterpret everyday sensory experiences and process them incorrectly.

For Sebastian it means he is terrified of things like getting water in his ears and eyes, putting on sunscreen, loud noises, tight seatbelts etc.

Kobe has big issues with food texture and is extremely tactile whereas Oliver is a sensory seeker which means he seeks out noise and movement to the point where he can’t sit still!

Oliver also has ADHD which causes him to be inattentive, overly active and impulsive so he is a ball of loud energy most of the time!

Having the boys diagnosed has assisted immensely as I have been able to structure our lives to help them cope with day-to-day living.

I work closely with our unbelievably incredible school and kinder staff to ensure the boys are properly supported in the classroom and I am very thankful for the acceptance and inclusion I feel from them. Our life is certainly not typical, in fact sometimes it is really hard and we can’t always do things that other families can. But my boys are doing so well and I am very proud of them.

The reason I have shared my story is I want people to know that you are not alone. There is help for you if you ask for it.

Remember; a diagnosis isn’t the end of the world, it is just the beginning of a different journey.

By Jody Mehlhopt.

Jody has just started a business inspired by her three autistic boys. Her online store sells sensory products for special kids with special needs (and those that just want to have fun). www.sensoryoasisforkids.com.au www.facebook.com/SensoryOasisForKids

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mama can Cook!

Breaky greens Serves: 4 | Prep: 5 min | Cook: 5 min Ingredients:

Method:

4 handfuls of greens (kale, sorrel, spinach) 1 pomegranate, seeded

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and dress with lemon vinaigrette.

2 heads broccoli

Add salt and pepper to taste.

1 handful cooked black beans

Divide salad mix into 4 bowls.

1 handful of activated nuts (we used almonds and walnuts)

Poach eggs ensuring yolks are still soft then place on top of each serving.

1 handful of pepitas

Sprinkle eggs with dukkah and serve with a wedge of lemon.

Half a pomegranate 8 poached eggs Lemon vinaigrette Dukkuh Salt and pepper Lemon, quartered

A Las Chicas healthy staple. Make sure you pop in for a visit and check out their new reno!

203 Carlisle St, Balaclava

This is just one of the delicious dishes you can find at www.dinnersorted.com.au, the healthy dinner recipes delivered to your door!

Miso glazed salmon with sweet potato

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Serves: 4 | Prep: 5 min | Cook: 25 min

Method:

Ingredients:

Preheat over to 180 degrees.

2 sweet potatoes 2 tbs mirin seasoning 1.5 tbs miso paste 2 tsp honey 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated 2 tsp coconut oil 600g salmon fillets 6 radishes thinly cut 2 lebanese cucumbers peeled into ribbons 2 spring onions 1 lime, cut into wedges Handful of coriander, chopped Salt and pepper

Cut sweet potato into 1-2cm cubes, drizzle with half the oil and season. Roast in oven for 15-20 mins or until tender.

Combine mirin, miso, honey and ginger in a jug. Set aside.

Heat coconut oil in a non-stick, ovenproof frying pan over medium heat. Season salmon with salt and pepper and cook for 2 minutes each side or until golden. Remove from heat and pour over mirin mixture. Transfer to oven and bake for 10 minutes for medium, or to your liking.

Take salmon out of oven and rest for 3 mins, then remove skin and flake.

Place sweet potatoes, radish, cucumber and spring onion in a bowl. Gently toss to combine. Divide among serving plates and top with flaked salmon. Drizzle with pan juices and sprinkle with coriander. Serve with the lime wedges.

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are you ready for school?

The transition from kindergarten to school is an important milestone for any child (and family). It can be an exciting and scary time for children so it is important to make sure that your child is ready for this transition.

Here are 6 tips to help you through the process: 1. Practice self-care skills, such as dressing, packing a bag, opening and closing a lunch box or drink bottle and going to the toilet.

Encouraging your child to develop these skills will give them the self-confidence to know they are able to do it on their own.

2. Play number and letter games with your child to introduce the concept of counting and letter recognition. This can be easily incorporated in everyday activities such as counting the number of toys on the floor or pointing out words when reading aloud to them. Encourage your child’s listening and attention skills by reading stories to them, practice holding books, turning pages and singing nursery rhymes. Asking questions about the story or song can also support your child’s understanding of communication skills.

3. Help your child to develop their gross motor skills, a fundamental base skill to many areas of learning. Using scissors and glue, drawing with a pencil, building with blocks or helping with the cooking can all help children to develop their gross motor skills. Only About Children, Hampton has specifically designed an Active program to help children learn important gross motor skills in a fun, inclusive environment.

4. Allow your child to become familiar with the school they will be attending. This will help them to feel more confident and comfortable on their first day. Visit their new school and attend any school orientations that are offered. This will also allow you to meet other families in the school community. You can start to develop relationships and a sense of connectedness to the school community.

5. Provide opportunities for your child to play with other children to develop their social skills. Children should be able to share, take turns during play and develop friendships. Teaching your child how to introduce themselves to other children and join in play with others will help them to feel confident and build friendships at school.

6. Talk with the child’s current kindergarten teacher and determine if any of the above areas require extra attention or practice. At Only About Children, Hampton, their in-house Health Team including speech pathologists and occupational therapists conduct ready for school screenings and test all of the above areas. This ensures that children are happy, confident and capable as they transition to school.

By Only About Children. 2016 Kindergarten enrolments are now open at Only About Children. Oac.edu.au 30

Enrolments are now open for 2016 Enrol Today!

Our innovative early learning program, fee inclusive, is like no other; • A unique, play-based, educational curriculum tailored for nursery, toddler and kindergarten age groups and delivered by qualified, passionate Educators • Yearly health screenings in the key developmental areas of vision, hearing and speech by our in-house Oac Health allied health specialists • A seasonal, 4 week, rotating menu designed by leading Nutritionists including breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and snacks prepared daily on-site by a qualified cook • A physical wellbeing program designed by a dedicated sports science physiologist • Access to our customised app, Oac CONNECT, allowing you to stay connected with your child throughout the day with photos • Nappies, wipes, formula, bottles and linen included

For more information:

oac.edu.au

8529 5000

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Inspired early learning, delivered the Oac Way

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pass the packet Did you know in the 70’s there were about 3,000-4,000 packets on supermarket shelves? Fast-forward to today and it’s estimated there is now about 80,000 packets on supermarket shelves.

There’s no denying it – life gets crazier and busier when you become a parent, and preparing food has become a bigger challenge than ever before. With many households now having two working parents, the explosion of packaged products has been marketed as the answer for busy parents. They are convenient and fast, they last longer on our shelves and they are designed to make us want to eat them.

These products are rarely made with real food, offer little nutritional value and many are laden with ingredients made in chemistry labs. But unfortunately, the explosion of these packets has seen this kind of food become the norm.

Packet foods are made in manufacturing plants, using science. Real food is made from real plants (fruits and vegetables) using nature – soil, sun and water. They have a natural intelligence (eg. fibre, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, carbs, fats and proteins) that most people are usually able to use without ill effects. Real food also includes grass raised and fed meats – the animals are raised without antibiotics and hormones in paddocks where they are free to roam.

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Packet food on the other hand is quite different. It is manufactured. There is no natural intelligence – it’s man made and sometimes designed to mimic the attributes of real food.

Packet food is big business. The science and strategy behind packet food is huge. Packet foods are usually developed in the research and development departments of big business.

It’s probably fair to say our health is not their top priority.

A food scientist or food technologists uses scientific research to look at the properties and the functions of different ingredients.

When developing packet products, three main components get added to give them flavour – salt, fat and sugar. Additives and preservatives also get added to products. Some of their purposes are enhancing flavour, texture, moisture, shelf life etc.

Once a product is researched and designed, it is then tested. Big businesses are looking for what’s called the bliss point – the point at which an ingredient is added that optimises the palatability of the product. For example, if

sugar is added, it’s the point at which the sugar is deemed to be neither ‘too sweet’ or ‘not sweet enough’. It’s the point at which we can keep eating and then want to keep eating some more of the food.

So what can you do?

The science used to develop a packet doesn’t stop there. There’s a science in the way the packaging is developed. What picture, colours and words get used on the front of a packet to attract its target market? Then there’s the ads on TV, radio, buses, bus shelters, supermarkets and more. What about how the packets are strategically positioned on the supermarket shelf? Now they even use words which are designed to make us think the packet is good for our health.

Fill up your plates and lunchboxes with real food, and start to reduce the amount of packets.

Is there any wonder we have such a hard time trying to tell our kids they can’t have certain things?

The growth of packet foods has happened so quickly, and it’s only now – some 30-40 years later – that the effects are coming to light.

Scarily, once you start researching all of this, it becomes a little reminiscent of cigarettes and the impact tobacco has had on the health of the world.

Thanks to the incredible work of Damon Gameau of That Sugar Film and Sarah Wilson of I Quit Sugar, the effects of sugar and products marketed as “low fat” (often having more sugar so they taste better) are now starting to become better known.

Keep in mind, 1 teaspoon of sugar is 4 grams of sugar. The World Health Organization recommends adults limit sugar to 6 teaspoons a day, and many are saying this means children should only have 3-4 teaspoons a day.

Given the number of packaged products now consumed in a day, does anyone else find this concerning? And this is not even taking into account that one packet alone can have many additives and preservatives in it as well.

Follow these 4 simple steps: 1. Add in more real foods and crowd out the number of packets

2. Start reading food packets labels NOW Start by ignoring the front of the packet, and turn to the back. This is where you’ll find everything you need to know. Look at the amount of sugar; look at what the additives and preservatives are. To save you from going into overwhelm, choose only a couple of packets a week to look at.

3. Ask yourself this important question “Do I really want to be putting this into my body (or my family’s bodies) now I know what’s in it?”

4. Can I find a better alternative?

This is important, because sometimes the same products made by different brands can have vastly different amounts of ingredients and additives and preservatives.

As my parting words, please remember, where you are at is totally perfect. Everyone starts at zero, and as long as you make a start, you will move away from zero towards better health.

Here’s my action for you – choose a packet food you use for breakfast, choose a packet food you use for lunch, and a packet food you use at dinner (this includes jars of sauces).

Follow the steps above for just these 3 items this week. Then next week, start again with 3 new items. You can do it!

Written by Belinda Smith from The 5 Minute Healthy Lunchbox System™.

Find out more at therootcause.com.au

Packet foods are rarely made with real food, they offer little nutritional value and many are laden with ingredients made in chemistry labs.

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a flexible return to work You’ve been having a lovely time on parental leave (between the crying, lack of sleep and sore nipples that is!), but now it’s time to get serious about returning to work.

Too often I hear examples of friends who have potentially been discriminated against, but have not understood their rights and have not sought advice when they look to return from parental leave. Here are some pointers to help make your return more successful.

Many mums want to meet their needs and the needs of their families by returning part time or flexibly. The first thing is to understand your rights and the best way to do this is to visit the FairWork Australia website (www.fairwork.gov. au) and to read your company’s policy if they have one. FairWork Australia’s role is to work with employees, employers and the community to educate and encourage compliance with Australia’s workplace laws. They have many helpful tools to help you return to work and request flexible work.

Many employees have the right to request “flexible working arrangements” and employers can only refuse these requests on “reasonable business grounds”.

Flexible working arrangements include working part-time, changing starting and finishing times of work or working from home. To be able to request flexible working arrangements employees should have worked with the same employer for at least 12 months and be the parent or carer of a child who is school aged or younger.

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Women often request flexible work by having a discussion with their boss. This verbal discussion works in some cases, but too often it is met with resistance. If you are at all unsure if your request will be granted, or if you are faced with verbal resistance then it would be best for you to follow the FairWork guidelines and formalise your request in writing. This written request should explain what changes you are asking for and explain the reasons for the request. This written request is referred to by many workplaces as a Business Case and there are examples on the FairWork website.

Employers who receive a written request must give a written response within 21 days saying whether the request is granted or refused.

They can only refuse a request on reasonable business grounds and the written response must include the reasons for a refusal.

As your written request is key, make sure you put thought and effort into it, addressing how your suggestions will impact on your colleagues, customers and the business.

Remember to value the skills you have gained from being a parent and how these skills benefit the workplace—things like prioritisation, multitasking, goal setting and achievement are key to being a mum and a great employee.

So just what is reasonable business grounds anyway? The folks at FairWork have said that employers can refuse requested arrangements if they are too costly, if other employees’ working arrangements can’t be changed to accommodate the request, if the request would result in a significant loss of productivity or have a significant negative impact on customer service. Now take note the language used here - “too costly”, “significant loss” and “significant negative impact” - don’t be put off too easily, these words have specifically been used by FairWork so that requests aren’t declined for trivial reasons.

What if you are looking to make a career change? What if you’ve decided your role doesn’t challenge you any more or isn’t aligned with where you want to take your future career? I get this, I really do, but I’d suggest not trying to change your whole career when you are returning from maternity leave. I’d suggest you go back to the role you left before you took leave, as it will be easier for you to balance your new responsibilities in a job you know and you should have a better chance for flexible working arrangements. If you do want to make a career change my view is that it’s easier to do this once you are back in the workforce for at least 6 to 12 months.

What if your role has been given to someone else permanently or no longer exists? A lot can change in a workplace while you are on leave. Again, FairWork are detailed in these situations. According to their website an employee who’s been on parental leave is entitled to come back to the job they had before going on leave, even if another person has been working in their role as a replacement.

If the job doesn’t exist anymore, then they must offer a suitable available job that the employee is qualified for, suited to work in and is nearest to their old job in pay and status. If there is no suitable job then this may mean a redundancy has taken place. The employee should be consulted at the time of these changes.

This article presents general advice. You may need to seek advice from an expert specific to your situation. If you are at all unsure about what your employer has told you, or feel like you are being treated unfairly, then please seek advice. Do it for your long-term career aspirations and do it for the next woman who is coming along behind you. Contact Fair Work Australia, your Union (even if you aren’t yet a member) or a workplace lawyer.

By Shannon Lyndon-Lugg Shannon is a corporate leadership development coach with 20+ years experience in HR and is a mum to two lovely children.

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share my job?

The win-win solution for employers and employees There’s a lot of chatter about flexible work at the moment, about millennials demanding it as part of their contracts, about the baby boomers needing it so they can work longer, and about parents needing it so they can work and raise their children. It’s becoming increasingly important, and job sharing is one of the best solutions because it benefits the employer as much as it benefits the employees.

Job sharing, as the name suggests, means two people share one full time position. There’s a few ways you can split the job. You can work 2.5 days each, or three days each with one day crossover, you can work one week on one week off, one person can do mornings the other afternoons. The best part is, no matter which way you split it, the role is always filled for the employer, and the employee has flexibility to allow them time to do other things like spending time with their children, or starting a business, reducing stress etc..

How do you split a job? Well I’m glad you asked. There’s lots of ways you can do this too, the two most common ways are either shared responsibility or divided responsibility.

Shared responsibility is where both employees share all responsibilities of the role, making the two employees interchangeable. Divided responsibility is where each employee is responsible for specific tasks, sometimes it will be split by client or project, or sometimes geography can divide a job. You can even mix it up a bit and have a combination of shared and divided responsibility. This is often a good way to divide a job as it allows you to split tasks and play to the strengths of each individual.

So what’s the catch? Why aren’t more people doing it? The main barrier to job sharing is finding someone to share a job with. And until recently the only way you could find someone was if you already knew them, or if your employer helped set it up. But now there are specific websites where you can meet someone with similar experience, it’s a bit like online dating, but for job sharing. Finding the 37

right person is still going to take time, but it’s getting easier and you now have a lot more options. The best advice is to start searching early so you don’t feel like you need to rush the decision.

Ok, it’s sounding good, but what am I looking for in a job sharing partner? A common mistake is looking for another you. One of the best selling points for employers is that they get two for the price of one. That’s two perspectives and two highly skilled professionals and two lots of experience. So you’re looking for someone with complimentary skills. For example if you’re working in advertising and your background is in strategy, maybe you might want to look for someone who’s more creatively driven so you can offer your employer the perfect account manager. Equally important is someone who has similar ethics and values so you can collaborate and debate, without feeling uncomfortable. And lastly, make sure you have the same career goals, just because you’re job sharing doesn’t mean you can’t progress in your career.

Job sharing opens up endless possibilities for flexible work because you’re no longer restricted to searching for that perfect highlevel part-time position that hundreds of candidates are also trying to get. It effectively turns any full time position (with a few exceptions of course) into a part-time position.

It’s also great for the employer, as they can tap into a highly qualified and often overlooked market. It allows them to offer flexibility to staff while still having the position filled full time, and this means a more diverse workforce.

And the perks don’t stop there; offering flexibility to staff helps staff retention through engagement and increased productivity. This is why job sharing is a win-win for employers and employees; careers with flexibility for the employee, and flexibility with full time cover for the employer. What’s not to like?

Written by Simone McLaughlin - Founder of jobsshared.com.au 37

A mother’s story of famIly violence Family violence is not only physical abuse. It is any behavior that controls or dominates a family member and causes them to fear for their own or other family member’s safety or wellbeing. Family violence is a violation of a woman’s basic human rights and is an issue that has recently come to the forefront of media and political attention in Australia.

This is Jane’s story...

When Jane first came to the Family Violence Service she didn’t realise she was experiencing family violence. She knew something wasn’t right in her relationship, but her partner had never physically hit her, he had never given her a black eye and she wasn’t covered in bruises.

Jane met her partner when they were in their early twenties, and she recalled the early days of their relationship as being exciting and fun.

Slowly, Jane realised that everything was changing after the birth of their children. She had a fulfilling career but her husband insisted that she stay at home with the children.

She agreed to this in the end but never felt like she had a choice in the decision.

Throughout the relationship Jane felt herself becoming more isolated from her friends and family. Leaving work meant she lost a lot of her social contacts, and every time she wanted to visit her family or friends her husband would make up an excuse of why she couldn’t. If any of Jane’s friends or family came to visit her

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husband would make it so uncomfortable that everyone stopped coming around to the house.

Each week Jane’s husband gave her an allowance for household purchases; if she wanted any extra money she had to beg for it. In contrast he would spend large amounts of money on new cars, vacations and houses without discussing it with her. Jane felt ungrateful complaining about this; she felt she should be happy as she had a great husband who provided for their family.

Over time Jane started to feel as though she was walking on eggshells in her own home.

The abuse would range from her husband watching TV and ignoring Jane and the kids to following her around the house for hours calling her names and putting her down in front of the children. There were times when he would throw things around the house or punch and kick the walls.

The Family Violence Service received a referral from the police for Jane after they attended a family violence incident at her property.

Through speaking about her experience with the Family Violence Service Jane learnt of the many different forms of family violence beyond physical abuse. She was able to see her husband’s abusive behaviours and slowly started to understand how her husband had used verbal abuse and financial control to keep her isolated.

The Family Violence Service linked Jane with a legal service so that she could access legal

advice about her situation. With the help of the Family Violence Service she applied for and was granted an Intervention Order against her husband and was able to exclude him from the family home. Jane decided that she wanted to remain in the family home so that the children’s routine was not disrupted. She was fearful that her husband might show up at the house demanding to see the children. The Family Violence Service assisted her with the cost of a lock change to help her feel safe and secure in her family home.

One of the primary barriers to leaving the relationship, for Jane, was that her husband had complete control of their finances.

The Family Violence Service helped her access a Centrelink income and referred her to a financial counsellor.

Due to her isolation Jane felt alone. She talked a lot about the grief she felt about the loss of her relationship and her dreams for her and her family’s future. With the help from the program she accessed counselling and a women’s support group, which helped her feel less isolated and allowed her to hear about other women’s experiences of family violence.

Jane talked about her concern of the impact of family violence on their children. The service helped the children access a range of support services.

With the help of the Family Violence Service Jane and her children are now living a happy and productive life free from family violence.

If you have experienced, and/or are currently experiencing family violence please contact The Salvation Army, Family Violence Service Monday to Friday 9am-4pm on 9536 7797.

The Family Violence Service offers the following programs: • Case management support: An outreach service that supports women with practical family violence needs.

• Private rental access program: Practical and financial support for women to stay in their current private rental or secure a new one.

• Peek-a-Boo group: A group for mothers and their newborn babies (up to 8 months) that works on strengthening the mother and baby bond.

• Superkids: A group for children aged 5-8 who have been exposed to family violence.

This group helps children identify their emotions.

• Women’s support group: An 8-week therapeutic support group for women who have experienced family violence.

If you or anyone you know is in immediate danger please contact 000. *All names in this story have been changed

By Zanetta Hartley – Social worker at the Salvation Army Family Violence Service The Salvation Army is dedicated to providing support to survivors of violence and their children through a variety of emergency responses such as refuge accommodation, and long-term support. www.salvationarmy.org.au

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lovely locals of st kilda we explore Fitzroy Street and surrounds 1.

1, Women’s wellness - Fernwood Having been a member of a Fernwood, we can confidently say that we love the vibe and sisterhood of this women’s health club. A local fitness and wellness hub that has been operating for many years, it is now open 24/7.

We can’t go past the free brekky and coffee/tea bar - mama time, to drink a cuppa without interruption after a workout session, bliss! Great variety of group classes. An encouraging and supportive all-women environment.

203 Fitzroy Street, www.fernwoodfitness.com.au 2. Vintage vibes - Scout house Jump on to Insta and check out the interior design inspo of Scout. A unique collection of vintage treasures, given new life. Scout house is a celebration of treasure hunting adventures, giving a home to unique pieces from all over the world that have been carefully selected. Stepping inside you are greeted with style, authenticity and individuality - a refreshing collection of wares to awaken the senses.

2.

161A Fitzroy Street www.scouthouse.com.au

3.

3. Sweet Envy - Baker D. Chirico Two words. Almond croissant. Must try. The fruit buns are legendary around Easter time the crowds swell to get a fix. The nougat is also pretty popular, we are partial to the pistachio - but orange, strawberry and chocolate are also killer. Loaded with nuts, so that’s got to be a tick for health and wellness! Then there’s also the star, the bread. Arguably baking some of the best bread in the city, just ask Melbourne’s best restaurants who favour the Baker for their menus.

149 Fitzroy Street www.bakerdchirico.com.au 4. Health kick - South Pacific Health Club

4.

Location location! Not only is the vista amazing here, but the facilities of the club are just as impressive. The aromatherapy steam rooms and hydrotherapy spa are great to alleviate any aches, pains or strains at the St Kilda Sea Baths - home to Australia’s only indoor, heated and filtered sea water pool. A perfect option for swimming lessons for the little ones - especially so if there are any issues with eczema, skin conditions or even asthma. For the mama-to-be, Preggie Bellies also runs here. The club’s day spa, “Spa dreamtime” will also pamper to your wellness needs.

5.

10-18 Jacka Boulevard www.southpacifichc.com.au 5. Summer Lovin’ - Kite Republic Also in the fitness vein, how about a bit of kite surfing or stand up paddle boarding (SUP) for a new perspective of the bay! If you’re not adrenaline motivated for kite surfing, then SUP offers an amazing full body low impact aerobic workout. Expect many of your body’s core muscles to be targeted while taking in the natural healing vibes of the water below. Lessons are recommend initially to ensure correct technique.

4/10-18 Jacka Boulevard www.kiterepublic.com.au

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1 of 3 BRATZ packs worth $116 each!

The Bratz believe in thinking for themselves, creating the things they dream of, and making every day an absolute adventure.

The Bratz love tackling problems creatively, living in the moment, thinking outside the box, and most of all HAVING FUN! Each prize pack includes: 4 x Bratz Hello My Name Is Dolls worth $29 each (a Cloe, Jade & Yasmin for you and an extra Cloe for your BFF!)

Thanks to our friends at:

Then post your entry by October 31st to: MamaMag PO Box 8018 North Road LPO, Brighton East VIC 3187

Name: Address:

Age: Postcode: 41

shape a child for life How play & attachment can shape a child for life You may have heard about the importance of the first 1,000 days. Research around the world now points to the importance of the time from conception to when a child turns 2 as laying the foundations for life.

A newborn’s brain is only about one-quarter the size of an adult’s, however it grows to about 80 per cent of adult size by three years of age and 90 per cent by age five. By two years of age, a toddler’s cerebral cortex contains well over a hundred trillion synapses. As you can see, being ready for school starts in the very early years.

Relationships are the foundation for all our development and learning.

As soon as a child is born, their parents play a critical role in the developmental equation.

Infants prefer human stimuli, your face, voice, touch, and even smell, over everything else.

They innately orient to people’s faces and would rather listen to a speech or singing than any other kind of sound. Because brain development is so heavily dependent on early experience, most babies will receive the right kind of nurturing from their earliest days, through our caring interactions and parenting instincts.

The one form of stimulation that has been proven to make a difference is language: infants and children who are conversed with, read to, and otherwise engaged in lots of verbal interaction show somewhat more advanced linguistic skills than children who are not as verbally engaged with their caregivers. Because language is fundamental to most of the rest of cognitive development, this simple action— talking and listening to your child—is one of the best ways to make the most of his or her critical brain-building years.

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One of the most essential experiences in shaping the architecture of the developing brain is “serve and return” interaction between children and significant adults in their lives.

Young children naturally reach out for interaction through babbling, facial expressions, and gestures, and adults respond with the same kind of vocalizing and gesturing back at them.

This back-and-forth process is fundamental to the wiring of the brain, especially in the earliest years.

Play, singing and story sharing is also an avenue through which children can build their brains and express their emotions, build relationships and master difficult experiences. Children learn through play with their trusted caregivers, that they are loved and important. These social and emotional skills build self-confidence and self esteem and help build important pathways in the brain.

The emotional wellbeing and social competence built through play and reading, provide a strong foundation for emerging cognitive abilities, emotional and physical health and social skills, all important prerequisites for success in school and later in the workplace and community.

Programs at early parenting organisations like Tweddle specialise in building parents’ knowledge around early childhood development, attachment, understanding cues and a child’s needs using play, music and group work.

By Kerrie Buchanan.

Kerrie is a maternal and child health nurse, a lactation consultant and family therapist. She is the In Home team leader at Tweddle Child and Family Health Service www.tweddle.org.au

workit baby Our experienced dental team will make you and your kids feel relaxed and comfortable 165 Ormond Road, Elwood PH: 9531 6387 elwooddental.com.au

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live local– shop local MamaMag is a FREE magazine for the mums of the Port Phillip area.

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

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Stricly 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.

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