kids now. LIFESTYLE TECH ACTIVITIES PROFILES SPORT including kids sport.
kids now. WELCOME PLAY IT SAFE WITH PETS HELP KIDS FIND THEIR OWN WAY FINAL CURTAIN CALL KIDS SAY CRAZIEST THINGSTHE IMAGINATION WITH NO STRINGS ATTACHED GET HOOKED ON HOCKEY 9 A NEW WONDERFUL WORLDAND 4 FAMILY GETS SPORTING CHANCEA 14 22136 2516
Sub-editor:
Being a parent means asking yourself a lot of Andquestions.that’s perfectly normal, as it’s a very rewarding role yet there are no guidelines to follow. Kids Now doesn’t have all the answers, but it does allow Goulburn Valley parents to share their experiences and challenges that can give understanding and hope for other families in similar situations. Such as Euroa parents Irais Trejo Medécigo and Alex Tsymbalov, who share their story about the initial shock of wondering how they were going to raise a deaf child to the new and wonderful world they now live in. Turn to page 4. Cris and Damien Stevens-Todd kindly share their journey negotiating surrogacy to make their happy family dream come true. See page 8. For Kaare Glass and his partner Courtney, their community wrapped around them when they began a challenging time as new parents. Read their story on page 14.
Design:
Editorial coordinator: Clemence Carayol
| SPRING
If you are looking for something different for your child to learn, Kids Now introduces you to Jason Triggs, a skilled puppeteer. Find out more on page 16. Or maybe your child would like to learn ballet, try their skills at Little Aths, hockey or squash? Turn to pages 23 to 26 for all the details. So, parents, grab a cuppa, sit down (we know it’s not always easy to find time!) and enjoy reading Kids Now the magazine that’s created just for you. Kids Now team
Photography: Megan Fisher and Rochelle Heffer McPherson Media Group Sandy Lloyd Shepparton 5831 2312 2 kids now. 2022
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“I’m able to remind Emily of the strategies she learnt with the horses,” she said.
Caz said the counselling aspect of the sessions were based on ‘narrative therapy’, which empowers the participant to be the expert in their own life.
For more information, visit: www.horsesforhope.org.au You can get in touch with Colin on 0417 541 778 or info@horsesforhope.org.au
STORY: GEORGIA ROSSITER
| SPRING 2022 3
“We’ve worked with Emily with everything from emotional regulation to leadership,” she said.
ACTIVITY
Caz said it was particularly beneficial for primary and secondary school-aged kids.
Emily Porter with Alex the pony. kids now.
“Importantly, they help the horse to feel calm and safe around humans.” Afterwards, participants head back into the barn for a debriefing session.
“We see a lot of people who can’t sit still at the beginning of the session, and then after they work with the horses, they can.”
THE PROGRAM IS MAKING A HUGE DIFFERENCE TO CHILDREN AND THE ANIMALS THEY BOND WITH.
Caz said Emily was a significant help to the horses in the program.
“Anything is possible after having a session with Horses For Hope,” Emily said. “I feel like I can do anything.” Horses For Hope was launched in 2004 by Colin Emonson and, on 10 hectares outside Mooroopna, participants take part in a unique form of counselling therapy. They work with troubled horses. Horse practitioner Caz Pringle-Bowden said the program teaches participants new ways of coping with day-to-day problems.
During the session, Rain was spooked and scared Emily away from her. But after sensing Emily’s fear, Rain eventually came over to her to let her know all was okay.
“She really enjoyed it,” Jo said. “And the experience really helped her prepare.”
When Emily Porter went to her first session with Horses For Hope two years ago, she was too anxious to go on school excursions by herself, let alone school camps or sleepovers. Now, the 11-year-old credits the program with her ability to “do anything”.
During the hour-and-a-half sessions, participants sit down in the barn to discuss any previous sessions, or what is worrying them, before heading out into the paddock.
Horsesbringhope
Anyone from three to 83 (and older) can come to Horses For Hope for therapy.
Emily Porter’s mum Jo Weymouth has seen the benefits of the therapy in practice.
She said it was important that significant people in participants’ lives also attend sessions in order to see them in a different light and mark their Joprogress.saidfor parents, it was good to learn the same strategies your child learns.
“I’ve seen her be able to communicate and be able to deal with those sorts of issues.”
The day before the camp began, Emily was working with Rain, a particularly troubled horse who is quite worried and fearful.
“What they learn in the horse yard they can apply to their own lives.”
For children who have learning disabilities or behavioural issues, Caz said working with the horses, where they have to be calm, can translate and teach them how to be calm in the “Theyclassroom.findthey can actually learn and take instruction better,” she said.
“It’s helped her become a confident young person.”
“Emily is on the [autism] spectrum, so emotional things can be quite challenging, and friends can be difficult,” Jo said.
“We’ll pair them with a horse, and they help do an activity with them, like getting on and off a horse float, getting used to wearing a saddle,” Caz said.
The next day, Emily confidently attended school camp — and stayed the entire time.
TROUBLED HORSES AND TROUBLED HUMANS ARE HELPING EACH OTHER THROUGH A UNIQUE FORM OF THERAPY.
“Participants learn emotional regulation skills in order to be with a horse who has experienced trauma,” Caz said.
An intensive course of weekly sessions with Horses For Hope even prepared Emily to spend all four nights at school camp.
Leo’s cochlear implants give him access to sound, which has given him the ability to learn spoken language to communicate with his family, but Irais said that because he is ultimately still deaf, it’s important for the family to learn Auslan to communicate with Leo, too.
4 kids now. | SPRING 2022
THE FIRST TIME A EUROA MOTHER COMMUNICATED WITH HER DEAF CHILD IN AUSLAN WAS THE MOMENT SHE KNEW THE FAMILY’S JOURNEY TO LEARN SIGN LANGUAGE TOGETHER HAD ALL BEEN WORTHWHILE.Auslan—shortforAustralian Sign Language — is a unique way to communicate.Euroaparents Irais Trejo Medécigo and Alex Tsymbalov had to adapt quickly to learn this new language for their deaf son, Leo. “It certainly was a journey from the start, and the shock of wondering how we were going to raise a deaf child,” Irais said. “I’m not fl uent in Auslan and I’m still learning. “You’ve got to practise and remember the vocabulary — and keep practising and keep practising. “And we have the motivation every single day. But it’s often Therechallenging.”isalot of technology to assist deaf people, Irais said, and they made the decision to get cochlear implants for Leo when he was 18 months old.
Mila loves hershenanigansdoingwithdadAlex.
A new wonderful worldandPROFILE
“He’s developing our language, but at the same time, we use Auslan as another way to communicate, and as a way for him to fi nd his own identity … and be part of the deaf culture,” she said.
kids now. | SPRING 2022 5
“It’s very exciting seeing him using Auslan and seeing him very proud and very happy about participating with deaf kids and adults. “I can see this as a sense of belonging, a sense of him being proud about that.”
PROFILE
Leo’s deafness has provided the family with a special experience with language and culture that Irais and Alex never would have been exposed to.
Leo and Mila are truly two peas in a pod. Mila learnt to communicate with Leo thanks to her very expressive persona.
“Auslan not only gives us access to a way to communicate with Leo, but it also gives us access to a community and culture.
“It’s a new world, a wonderful world that we live in now that maybe we never would have known about until our son was born,” Irais said.
Miranda Jane Taylor always thought she would like to write a book. She grew up in Tocumwal, but calls Finley her home town where she went to primary and high Developingschool. a love of working with children, she became a primary school teacher in the Goulburn Valley and made a habit of writing down the funny things her students would say on the playground or in the classroom.
“On this particular day he said something along the lines of ‘Miss Taylor, isn’t it crazy that if we were seahorses, I’d be the one having the babies and if we were peacocks I’d be the pretty one’.
A glimpse of Isn’t It Crazy, inspired by the idle thoughts of young primary school children. 6 kids now. | SPRING 2022
PROFILE
“Whenever Nathanael saw me on yard duty he would beeline for me with a big smile on “Hehis face.always had something random to say or some joke to play on me.
Six months later Miranda decided it was time to have a crack at writing a children’s book. It took her less than two hours to write what would become her first children’s book, inspired by the funny things her students had said to her over the years.
The tipping point came on yard duty at the Numurkah school where she was working, when a cheeky Year 1 student, Nathanael Hubbard, gave her the idea for her first children’s book. “It was a regular day in 2020, and it was my turn on playground duty,” Miranda said.
Isn’t It Crazy is a funny and heartfelt picture book about animals and families seen through a child’s Iteye.is beautifully illustrated by Emma Louise Clarke, who Miranda said illustrated her vision better than she had ever imagined.
You can follow Miranda on Instagram: @mirandajanebooks THE SAYING GOES ‘EVERYONE HAS A BOOK INSIDE THEM’. LUCKILY FOR US, TEACHER MIRANDA JANE TAYLOR GOT THAT BOOK OUT FROM INSIDE HER AND SHARED HER STUDENTS’ QUIRKY COMMENTS WITH THE WORLD. Nathanael Hubbard and Miranda Jane Taylor. Miranda Jane Taylor, author of Isn’t It Crazy.
“I laughed and wrote it down as I do with most funny things my students say.”
Kids say the craziest things
“As a casual teacher you get plenty of duties, but I didn’t mind because I found staffrooms as a casual awkward at times and often preferred to be talking to my new little friends in the playground,” Miranda said.
If you would like a copy of Isn’t It Crazy, visit: mirandajanebooks.company.site/
Riverlinks, The Listies and Critical Stages Touring present ROFL (ROLLING ON THE FLOOR LAUGHING) Written and performed by Matthew Kelly and Richard Higgins as The Listies! SAT 17 SEP 10.30AMEASTBANKRIVERLINKS2022 kids now. | SPRING 2022 7
NOVEMBER WITH GREATER
Riverlinks Venues Riverlinks Box Office: 03 5832
Wednesday 21 September, 10.30am
A real pain in the neck
While Dr Jake says this issue is becoming more common because of our reliance on technology, there are options available to ensure good posture is maintained during use of these devices.
Thursday 10 November, 10.30am $6.00 per child with accompanying adult free. Additional adults $6.00. Child under 6 months free if accompanying a Cushionsibling.Concerts are a relaxed and inexpensive introduction to music and performance for all ages.
Active Spine chiropractor, Jacob (Dr Jake) Black, says unless children and teens practise good posture while using technology, then they run the risk of experiencing neck ‘Techproblems.neck’ refers to the act of stressing muscles while using phones, laptops or tablets, which leads to neck and shoulder pain, headaches, migraines and forward rolled “We’reshoulders.starting to see more and more of this with young people,” Dr Jake said. “It comes about from an overuse of technology and being in positions that can put stress on the neck and shoulders.”
STORY: THOM MONAGHAN
MIX TOGETHER A BIG DOSE OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY WITH A NORMAL DOSE OF KIDS AND YOU GET A RECIPE FOR POSTURE PROBLEMS
RiverlinksMUSICSECONDARYSHEPPARTONCOLLEGESTUDENTSEastbank
TECH
Children are at risk of developing ‘tech neck’, says a Shepparton chiropractor.
“Setting up your child’s workstation so it is ergonomically effi cient can really help decrease a child’s risk of developing tech neck,” he said. “This means having the keyboard and mouse close to the edge of the desk, having the right seat at the right height, maybe even a foot stool and also the right desk.”
Riverlinksriverlinksvenues.com.au9511presents RiverlinksSEPTEMBERCONCERTSCUSHIONWITHDRAMARAMAEastbank
For those children who are experiencing a sore neck or back, or consistent headaches and migraines, Dr Jake said the child should visit a registered chiropractor so AND PAIN.
Dr Jake also said using pillows or gaming chairs while children play games can help keep the spine and neck straight, thus decreasing a child’s chance of developing neck and shoulder “Istress.wouldn’t be recommending decreasing screen or technology time because it is involved in most of the day and life. “If you’re going to use your devices, that’s no problem, just make sure it’s done in the correct posture.”
“Fletcher calls both of us Dad,” Cris said.
STORY: ROSA RITCHIE EVERYONE’S PATH TO PARENTHOOD IS DIFFERENT. ONE COUPLE’S JOURNEY LED THEM TO SURROGACY TO MAKE THEIR HAPPY FAMILY DREAM COME TRUE.
“We’ve had a few experiences where I’ll be taking Fletcher to the shops or swimming and people make comments about Fletcher and I having a ‘daddy and daughter day’, or even me babysitting her whilst her mum is at work,” he said.
Having a child wasn’t the easiest of tasks for Cris and Damien Stevens-Todd.
Cris and Damien Stevens-Todd and their bundle of joy, Fletcher.
Although Fletcher is starting school soon, and the house will become much quieter during the day, Damien said he and Cris were happy with the way things are.
“We were really lucky with the fact that we got paternity leave, and because Cris was the stayat-home parent, he managed to get the same amount of time and support as typically mothers get,” Damien said.
8 kids now. | SPRING 2022
“Thankfully, Fletcher hasn’t had any mean or hurtful comments made to her, and ideally, we hope that continues.
“We’d love to expand our family, but at the moment, we are incredibly happy with how it is.”
STORY:
“We’re both pretty strong, and brush off comments quite easily, but some of the conversations we’re going to have are definitely going to be a bit more difficult.”ForDamien, some of the hardest parts about being a dad in a same-sex relationship was trying to balance his work with his family.
But thankfully, it hasn’t been an issue.
He started a new job when Fletcher was born, but after a year, decided to swap it for a more manageable ‘nine-to-five’ role.
“We went over in 2016 to meet with our surrogate partner and to provide our sperm, and we thankfully returned in 2018 to pick up our Surrogacydaughter.”
Being in a same-sex relationship, the couple had to find alternative ways to start a family, with the pair choosing surrogacy. They connected with a woman in Canada, and after visiting her and providing their sperm for the procedure, they waited.
Being the stay-at-home dad did mean that Cris had to deal with people asking about Fletcher’s mother or making comments about him having “daddy-daughter time”, but Cris said it doesn’t happen as often as you’d expect.
Love will always find a way
“Beforehand, we talked with many support groups, families and friends, as well as lawyers before deciding it was right to do it.”
“Both Cris and I are both vocal and outgoing, and have commanded respect from the community, as we just want to be treated like every other family.
One of the questions Cris and Damien were asked while waiting for Fletcher to be born was what she was going to call them both, and if she would get confused.
PROFILE
“But realistically, we know that it probably isn’t going to happen because of the diverse group of people she will be coming in contact with.
Fletcher, who is now four, is about to start school, and Damien knows he is going to have to deal with some negative comments about his family.
“I was given a management job that had me on the road a lot, and I realised how much I wanted to be at home, with Fletcher and Cris, and so I decided to quit and find a more familyfriendly role.” During that first year, Cris had taken on the role as the stay-at-home parent, looking after Fletcher while he took time off work with paternity leave.
“When she calls out, if I answer and she was looking for Damien, or vice versa, she just corrects us and says she wants ‘Daddy Damien’ or ‘Daddy Cris’.
“She picked this up before she was even two, so it’s really never been an issue.”
is not an easy, or cheap, method of starting a family, but for Steven and Cris, they were willing to do whatever it took to start a family.
“We were looking at doing a surrogacy with a mother in Vietnam, Thailand or Nepal, but both became much more difficult around the time we were really getting serious, so we decided to settle with Canada,” Damien said.
“We’ve been so blessed so far by the reception we have been given,” he said.
“Thankfully, they don’t happen often, and they’re usually not trying to be rude, it is just their natural “Butthought.we’ve been super lucky with how smart and adaptable Fletcher is.”
“It’s important to realise that any dog can bite a child,” Katie said.
Having a pet can be incredibly beneficial for children, as they can build a close relationship with the pet and can learn many life lessons from them.
Junior Muaythai Classes (primary school ages) every Tuesday & Thursday at 4pm. Teen Muaythai Classes (high school ages) every Monday & Wednesday at 5pm. Classes run each School Term. Improving self-confidence and fitness by learning effective self-defence techniques.
“If the skin has been broken, then you need to wash it under cold water and disinfect it. “Take them to a doctor if their skin is broken, and if flesh has been bitten off, call an ambulance.
Play it safe with pets
“It’s also really important that you do not give your child and food Theor water.”same steps should be followed if your child has been bitten or scratched by a cat, as cats carry bacteria on their teeth and claws.
To try and reduce the chances of your child being bitten or scratched by your pet, Katie said you should teach your children the following lessons.
www.gvmartialarts.com.au | info@gvmartialarts.com.au
“Children also need to learn to not disturb Katie said children needed to be included during the early social interactions, to make sure the pets feel comfortable around “Children should go with school, and to the dog show the new puppy or pet that they are to be trusted and not the day, the best sure your pet is safe around your kids is to make well trained, and
Katie Singleton-Foley, clinical co-ordinator of Fur Life Vet Clinic, said.
According to the Department of Health, children five years or younger are at the greatest risk of being injured by their family’s dog or a friend’s dog. These incidents are usually triggered by the child’s interaction with the dog during play, or when the dog is eating or sleeping.
GV MARTIAL ARTS “Fun, Fitness & Fighting Spirit”“Fun, Fitness & Fighting Spirit” kids now. | SPRING 2022 9
CAREFUL
PLANNING AND SOME HARD WORK.
However, bringing a new pet into the family isn’t without its dangers.
“Children need to be taught to treat animals gently and calmly,” she said. “You should always keep a close eye on your child when they are around animals, and if this isn’t
“A lot of time and effort need to be put into your pet when you first get it, as well as your children, to make sure they are safe around them,”
HOME OF THE FAMOUS CARAMEL CHOCOLATE APPLE! Open Everyday of the Victorian School Holidays from 10am - 3pm 7717 Goulburn Valley Highway, Kialla VIC sales@chocolateapplefactory.com.au3631(03)58232416 BIRTHDAY PARTIES JUNIOR & BUMPER PROGRAM8PROGRAMBOWLLEAGUESPATROLWEEK'LEARNTOBOWL' 116-118 Fryers Street, Shepparton VICTORIA 3630 03 5821 5587 | starbowl@oztenpin.com.au 10 FOR 10 FOR KIDS 10 WEEKS FOR $10 PER WEEKCHILD RECEIVES THEIR OWN BALL! DIS4BOWL-ABILITIESWEEK'LEARNTOBOWL'ABILITYPROGRAM BRINGING A NEW PET INTO THE FAMILY REQUIRES
“The first step is to calm your child. You then need to check to see if the skin has been broken.
STORY: THOM MONAGHAN Boundaries are the key to ensure a safe andbetweenrelationshipyourchildyourpet.
“If your child has been bitten, there are few things you should do.
O3 5823 1515 | 7715 Melbourne Road, Shepparton VIC 3630 Emerald Bank Complex Take a Virtual Tour at www.riversidegardens.com Our Mini Golf course is easy enough for kids to have a hit and giggle and challenging enough for adults to have a laugh while competing to be a mini golf champion. Open everyday: 9.00am – 5.00pm Fun everyone!for New Hole 13 Now OpenThe Family Haven in Mooroopna is an initiative of the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project. www.gslp.com.au The Family Haven in Mooroopna provides a welcoming space for parents, carers and children. Follow us on Facebook for news, open hours and holiday programs. @familyhavenmooroopna 03 5831 6944 @SheedSuzanna@SuzannaSheed
Enjoy activityoutdoorthisspring
With the warmer months approaching and the days getting longer, there are many opportunities for the family to stay active and Sporthealthy.isimportant for children’s development so staying active outdoors, whether it is throwing a frisbee in the park, swimming in the local pool, or taking a bike ride in the Dookie Hills is beneficial for their overall Thewellbeing.Shepparton District has many stunning locations to take in the natural surroundings while enjoying gentle exercise. FREE membership RUN – into the library to grab a good book JUMP – into coding with Busy Code – Online LEAP – into learning with World Book Online BOUNCE – back to Rhyme & Story Time PLAY – during holidays with our activities. Your libraries are located in Mooroopna, Shepparton, Tatura, Cobram, Numurkah, Nathalia, Yarrawonga, Euroa, Nagambie, Violet Town and a Mobile Library service. www.gvlibraries.com.au call 1300 374 765 Active Kids Love Libraries! 10 kids now. | SPRING 2022
AQUAMOVES
FUN PLANET
GV INFLATABLE NATION
HUNT
ROLL ON THE FLOOR LAUGHING
ACTIVITY
Get into the great indoors TRYING TO ENTERTAIN KIDS WHEN IT’S TOO WET OR COLD TO GO OUTSIDE CAN BE STRESSFUL. THANKFULLY, SHEPPARTON HAS SOME GREAT INDOOR ACTIVITIES TO KEEP THE WHOLE FAMILY HAPPY ON RAINY DAYS.
A little family competition never hurt, and there is no better place to go than Oz Tenpin. The centre offers 18 lanes to ensure no family misses out, and also has arcade games to play in your ‘spare’ time. Fryers St, SHEPPARTONShepparton.MOUSE
In September, The Listies and Critical Stages will be bringing their hilarious show Roll on the Floor Laughing to Riverlinks. It’s a show that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family, and will leave everyone in stitches. Tickets are $18 per person, with the show being performed on September 17.
REBOUND Weather you love to jump on the trampoline, play on the indoor playground, or throw balls in the ball pit, Rebound Ultimate Trampoline Park and Play Centre is a must for any family in Shepparton. In Kialla, Rebound is a sure-fire hit with the family.
Fun Planet really lives up to the name! Located in Riverside Plaza, Fun Planet can keep the whole family entertained for hours. The precinct has go karts, laser tag, mini golf and a haunted house just to name a few, which means there is something for everyone.
OZ TENPIN
We all love a bouncing castle, and GV Inflatable Nation has dedicated its entire play space to inflatables. Whether you’re a teen, a parent or younger, you’ll be able to have physical fun, which will keep you entertained for hours. McGill St, Shepparton.
So, if you want to be rolling on the floor from laughter, then ROFL is going to be for you! Eastbank, Welsford St, Shepparton.
kids now. | SPRING 2022 11
Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla.
Riverside Plaza, Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla.
Shepparton artists have teamed up with local businesses by painting small mice on the shopfronts of some of Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley’s most visited businesses. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing, but physical activity, take a stroll around Shepparton and the neighbouring areas, and see how many mice you can spot! Various locations.
Although Aquamoves is usually enjoyed in the warmer months, they have a few great options for those rainy and cold days. If you fancy swimming laps, they have a pool for that. Or If you want to splash around in the leisure pool, play on the water slide and with the waterfalls and sprays, you can easily do that too.
Tom Collins Dve, Shepparton.
Tricia works at Greater Shepparton Secondary College as a music teacher and Jackie works at Katamatite Kindergarten as an early childhood
They’ve been friends for about 15 years, meeting through the Shepparton Theatre Arts Group. They were brought together by a shared passion of using the arts to teach young people when Riverlinks Eastbank reached out to Tricia about putting on some performances for the ‘Cushion Concerts’ for kinder kids.
Three not-so-obvious signs of childhood vision problems are: Book an appointment with us to make sure they don’t miss a thing. • Quick loss of interest in activities that require eye use • Losing your place when reading • Turning the head to look at something in front of you If you have noticed any of the above: 12 kids now. | SPRING 2022
“Weeducator.have the benefit of me knowing what kinds of things we’re looking for in secondary students and then taking that right back to the beginning (with) her expertise on how to deliver that,” Tricia said.
“And we just sort of really clicked and we found it came really easily to us and we love doing it,” Tricia “We’vesaid.put together a series of concerts and we’re just approaching kindergartens and daycare centres.”Youcan contact Monkey Baggles by phone on 0428 855 075 or email at: monkeybaggles@gmail.com STAGE? VERY OWN CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINERS.
“We’re children’s entertainers with an emphasis on giving young people the opportunity to have access to the arts and learning through the arts,” Tricia said.
The name Monkey Baggles is a play on the duo’s nicknames — Jackie is ‘Monkey’ and Tricia is ‘Baggles’.
Jackie Monk is ‘Monkey’ and Tricia Baggs is ‘Baggles’, Shepparton’s own children’s entertainers. Jackie Monk owns the stage in the Monkey Baggles performance at a ‘Cushion Concert’ at Riverlinks Eastbank in June. 98 Maude St Shepparton | 5821 2811 www.hilleyecare.com
Bags of fun for little monkeys
MOVE OVER, WIGGLES!
“Our shows are closely related to the Victorian curriculum to help young people develop their literacy and numeracy.”
WHAT DO YOU GET WHEN YOU PUT A SECONDARY SCHOOL MUSIC TEACHER AND A KINDERGARTEN TEACHER TOGETHER ON
ACTIVITY
Tricia Bagg and Jackie Monk are teachers who have formed the theatrical duo, Monkey Baggles.
Incy SpiderWincygets the Monkey treatment.Baggles
YOU GET SHEPPARTON’S
“And I quoted that in my Chicago script, because it just still brings tears to my eyes.”
And while she filled that void for 18 years, Helen worries about where those kids will find their place to belong now.
“We needed every single night to be full, just to cover our costs.
PROFILE
“I did it very badly to start off with. I look back and go, ‘how did I survive?’.
| SPRING 2022 13
On November 30, 2021, Helen announced the heart-breaking decision to close the curtain on Initial Stages Theatre Company after 18 years of teaching children in the performing arts.
“Our productions cost us $40,000, and $25,000 to $28,000 of that was just to hire the venue.
But while filling that gap, Helen knows she has left a gaping hole for the kids she used to work with.
“One mum came up and hugged me and said, ‘thank you so much he’s found his people’.
The job was incredibly demanding mentally, physically and emotionally and after missing countless important moments in her children’s lives, she just couldn’t do it any more.
“I would actually get to a stage where I actually had nothing left to give.
“But then 60 per cent of those ticket sales goes back to the licensing, so you get a bill for $4500.
Since her final bow, Helen has been hoping one of her former students would take on the mantle from her, but so far no-one has stepped up to take centre stage.
callcurtainFinal
She started the business originally to meet the needs for creative kids who didn’t fit in, to give them a space to thrive and find their confidence.
Helen Janke reflects on running Initial Stages and nurturing young talent. kids now.
“It’s a massive commitment. It was a huge sacrifice.”
“I’d love to speak to someone from an experience point of view and go ‘hey, this is what I found this is the best way to go’.”
Helen would spend nearly every waking moment working in the lead-up to a production, leaving her burnt-out in the wake of a show.
“Out of the 18 years, we made a profit once from our shows, and it was profit of $500.” Helen used to anxiously watch the ticket sales ahead of a show, hoping that enough would sell to cover the cost of production.
Helen hadn’t had time to fully appreciate the weight of her decision to close her theatre company, Initial Stages, but she fought off tears as former cast, crew, staff and students rose from their seats in a standing ovation.
“You just have to give so much production week, you’re there from nine in the morning with the kids, and then you stay until midnight, doing the lighting and getting the sets from Melbourne. “And you’ve got to have that energy all the time, and that enthusiasm and that drive.
“The hardest part is, where are those kids going to find their people now? “The ones that just cried and sobbed the day I closed my doors.”
INITIAL STAGES THEATRE COMPANY WAS THE CREATIVE OUTLET AND SAFE HAVEN FOR HUNDREDS OF YOUNG ACTORS, SINGERS AND DANCERS FOR 18 YEARS. ALL UNDER THE WATCHFUL EYE OF HELEN JANKE, WHO TALKED TO KIDS NOW ABOUT THE HIGHS AND LOWS OF THE JOURNEY.
“I thought maybe someone may have called me and said, ‘hey, I’m interested, can you mentor me?’, And I’d be like, ‘oh my God, yes, of course I can’,“ she said. “I would have loved someone to have said, you know, to have guided me.
More than half the audience were people she had mentored or employed, and they applauded her dedication to the arts and the opportunity she had given them as much as the Chicago “Theyperformance.allcame back to that final show, just to say thank you,” Helen said.
“If I put on Hairspray, and I got $56,000 at the box office and, and my costs were $48,000 or $50,000, I’m thinking I’ve maybe made a profit.
“It’s just the price of theatre.” Helen is now doing drama work with disabled adults, giving them creative opportunities for self expression that they never had before.
People used to come to her theatre company from all over the region Echuca, Cobram, Yarrawonga, Seymour and Nathalia.
As the lights dimmed on the final act of Chicago, director Helen Janke looked out into the crowd and recognised some familiar faces.
“Before we even look at costuming and sets, we’re up to $28,000. You divide that by $25 ticket, and you need three full houses (to break even).
“It’s not something I advertised or spoke about because it’s part of running a business, but it takes the joy out of it and takes the shine off.
“They’ve been to family functions without me, I haven’t seen a basketball grand final because it’s rehearsal night,” she said.
“Many nights I’d come home and just cry and think ‘I just can’t do it, I just can’t’.” But even though she would spend nearly every hour working, the company was bleeding her dry financially too.
PROFILE
Kaare was required to undergo seven weeks of rehabilitation before he was able to return to work.
“There was a wide range of things raffled, from signed memorabilia, photos of vintage cars and a boys’ weekend away, which raised a few grand,” Kaare said. “The club and the community’s support has been Althoughincredible.”Kaare has been unable to pull on the All Blacks jumper since his injury, he has still attended every home match for the team.
“The injury really put a lot of things into perspective and has made me understand how important for my family it is that I’m healthy,” he said.
Baby Frankie has been in and out of hospital since birth. andFrankieCourtney,Kaare. babyKaareCourtney,andFrankie.
“Around a week after I got through my rehabilitation, my daughter Frankie was born.
When you start out playing footy, you’re told to attack the ball as hard as possible.
“The birth wasn’t the smoothest, and she suffered some massive complications, suffering severe cerebral palsy, CVI (cortical vision impairment) and Sinceepilepsy.”herbirth, Frankie has been in and out of the Royal Children’s Hospital, with Kaare and his partner Courtney travelling to and from Melbourne for her However,treatments.asisoften the case, the community rallied behind Kaare, Frankie and Courtney, with his football club, the Benalla All Blacks, hosting a fundraiser to raise much-needed money for the Thefamily.fundraiser raised more than $42,000 for the family, with local businesses, supporters and club members donating items to be raffled.
It’s something that is drilled into you, every game, every training session.
But his time back at work was short-lived.
“I wanted to show my support and keep in communication with the club. “I’m trying to go as often as I can.” Kaare doesn’t see himself playing this year but hopes to run on the field next season.
“The entire time I was in hospital has kind of become one big memory.”
“However, as I went up, one of my teammates also did, and he managed to knee me on the left side of my abdomen.” This impact caused his small intestine to rip, splitting in half and forcing Kaare to be stretchered off the field.
“I’m going to give my body a bit more time to recover, and join the team, hopefully, next year.”
For Kaare Glass, he was doing just that when playing just his eighth game of footy for the Benalla All Blacks.
“I went up for a contest and tried to punch the ball and clear it away,” Kaare said.
“I tried to get up and couldn’t, and so the trainers stretchered me off to the rooms and called the Afterambulance.”fourhours in surgery, Kaare was moved to ICU where he stayed for one week, before being transferred to special care before being “It’sdischarged.apretty blurry part of my memory,” he said.
Please consider making a donation to the Royal Children’s Hospital if you want to help children like Frankie: ways-to-donate/www.rchfoundation.org.au/
ONE YOUNG FAMILY LEARNED THE TRUE MEANING OF THE WORD ‘COMMUNITY’ WHEN THEIR COMMUNITY RALLIED AROUND THEM DURING THEIR DARKEST TIMES. STORY: THOM MONAGHAN Family gets a chancesporting 14 kids now. | SPRING 2022
“There’s so much anxiety and hesitancy to get back into any sort of sport, let alone just getting outside and enjoying some sunshine,” he said.
“Families can come down and get involved and socialise from the sidelines as well. While we take them through different games and activities.”
Jimmy wanted to create a space for young people who weren’t interested in team sports, but still need to engage in physical play.
Some of the activities include various games of tag, obstacle courses and dodge ball — all of which are made more interesting by different variations and objectives every week.
teams. We provide + Tailored education to meet learning needs of carers + Hybrid learning- online modules plus face to face training individualised to your child + NDIS funding opportunities COURSE SuctioningSeizureTracheostomyEXAMPLEScaremanagementandrespiratory disease Gastrostomy care $105 pp Duration: 3.5 hours Our Infant and Child first aid course is perfect if you are a parent, grandparent, carer, Aunt, Uncle or friend to a little one. Maybe you want to add “babysitting” to your resume? We all want to keep our tiny tots safe, and the best way to do this is by ensuring you have the right knowledge from the right people. BABY + CHILD FIRST AIDNDIS carer training Home » NDIS carer training
“All the mental and physical benefits they get from that they’ve just been lacking for so long.”
COVID-19
We facilitate school based programs which align with the National Curriculum as well as Kindergarten programs which align with the Early Years Framework. Our programs are engaging and interactive. They will provide students with the knowledge and skills to navigate emergencies. We know as parents how important it is for children to have these skills and we know as critical care nurses how much these they improve outcomes in the event of an accident. As board members of the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) the Kids Save Lives statement is critical to our program. This statement was released by the ARC endorsing school based CPR training on an annual basis.
Let’s physicalget SPORT
www.paeds.education | contact@paeds.educationContact us to find out more information. NATIONALLY RECOGNISED FIRST AID COURSES These courses can be organised to take place at your school, business or community location. Please contact us for a quote. • HLTAID009- Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation • HLTAID011- Provide FIRST AID • HLTAID014 Provide Advanced First Aid • Course set 22556VIC (Asthma) & 22578VIC (Anaphylaxis) • HLTAID012 Provide an emergency first aid response in an education and care setting KIDS SAVE LIVES kids now. | SPRING 2022 15
SPORT
“It’s freedom, it’s exploration of movement, in a non-competitive sort of way,” Jimmy said. “It’s just moving to have a bit of fun, and I think that’s the most important part.” combination.winning activities teach kids how to in
AFTER
CHILDREN NEED HELP TO GET OUT HAVE FUN WITH AND GAMES AGAIN, SPENDING FAR TOO LONG COOPED UP BECAUSE OF RESTRICTIONS.
“We know the benefits of physical movement and how that benefits your mental health, but even just socialising and getting to know new people,” Jimmy said.
Starting out by facilitating recreation and games in their home town of Euroa, they now run programs for young people at 26 primary schools across Victoria and southern NSW.
Coming out of two years of social isolation thanks to the pandemic, former youth worker Jimmy Ivill says lots of young people are faced with overwhelming anxiety at the idea of participating in sports, games or any kind of physical activity among their peers.
AND
Group
work
Fun and exercise is a
When Jimmy and his best mate Klay Giovannini saw the poor mental health outcomes that young people were suffering from, they started the My Future Academy to engage young people in physical recreation to help them build resilience to manage their mental health.
Jason Triggs with his fluffy companion called Felicia setting up for his Mooroopna puppet class.
16 kids now. | SPRING 2022
STORY: GEORGIA ROSSITER. PHOTOGRAPHY: RECHELLE ZAMMITT ImaginationwithnostringsattachedACTIVITY A LOCAL PUPPETEER IS PULLING THE STRINGS WHEN IT COMES TO GETTING CHILDREN TO EMBRACE THEIR CREATIVITY AGAIN, AFTER THE PANDEMIC ROBBED US OF THE ARTS AND linespuppetryIfOPPORTUNITIES.PERFORMANCEpuppeteerJasonTriggshadasloganforhisclass,itwouldbesomethingalongtheof‘creativityandimagination’.
Locally, the tour will visit Avenel and Mooroopna. For more information about his upcoming shows, or to inquire about puppetry school, visit Jason Triggs — Puppeteer on Facebook.
“It’s really exciting, tickets are selling like hotcakes.”
“She helps kids overcome their fear of puppets, and likes to talk about consent,”Jason said. “I take her everywhere with me.” In puppetry school, kids make their own puppets, write their own play and perform for an audience at the end of the year. “They need to work together, build confidence and stage presence,” Jason said. “It requires creativity and imagination, which can’t be taught but can be fostered.”
Student Riley Wooster with puppet Steve and Jason Triggs with puppet G-Man. Riley Wooster in control of Jason puppetTriggs’Felicia.
The little school where science rules.
Our location on the University grounds means we have excellent facilities on our doorstep. We have access to a variety of sporting facilities and laboratories with many of the friendly staff at the University of Melbourne able to offer their expertise to bene t our student’s education. This compliments our wholistic science program where science is incorporated throughout all learning areas promoting the use of collaborative learning teams and inquiry-based learning. We extend out community relationships further with our Chinese (Mandarin) language program in partnership with Bendigo Senior Secondary College. For further information or to tour the school please contact us.
Jason is also taking his puppets on the road. He’s touring regional Victoria in the September school holidays with his new show There’s A Dinosaur In My Garden He confirmed the show did feature a dinosaur, but said he could not confirm in what capacity.
Jason grew up doing drama in and out of school, so when his parents gave him two puppets for his birthday one year, his love of performance morphed to include a love of puppets.
Now, the Seymour resident hosts two puppetry schools for children, tours schools and libraries with his puppet shows, and owns “about 50 or 60” puppets (most handmade). His favourite puppet is Felicia. She’s three in human years, which counts for 21 puppet ones.
“I think children should always explore puppetry, even if it’s just using oven mitts and googly eyes,” he “It’ssaid.about storytelling and imagination.”
He said now more than ever puppetry and the performing arts were important for children to use their “Manyimagination.childrenhad to stay home [during COVID-19 lockdowns] and not explore as much.
Written and performed by Jason, the show is open to young and old to attend.
We are situated on the grounds of Melbourne University, Dookie Campus surrounded by a wonderful bush land reserve, overlooking canola elds, with a view of the Mount Feathertop and Mount Buffalo snow peaks. We take pride in promoting a friendly atmosphere where parents, students and teachers work together to generate quality educational opportunities for all children.
Principal: Rebecca Brown : 03 5828 6581 / 0427 715 219 : 2 Ridge Rd, Dookie College VIC : currawa.ps@education.vic.gov.au : www.currawaps.vic.edu.au
Our EnthusiasticCurious,Accepting,valuesschoolare…NOW TAKING ENROLMENTS FOR 2023 kids now. | SPRING 2022 17
“To be creative in what they do is very important.”
Currawa Primary School is
ACTIVITY
4pm Saturday: 8am – 2pm Donuts DELICIOUSFOR ALL
For enrolment enquiries, please contact Ms Carla May, Acting Principal on 5825 2060. Enrolments are open for 2023. School tours are most welcome. Please contact the school to arrange a tour on 5825 2060.
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MOOROOPNA PRIMARY SCHOOL O’Brien Street, Mooroopna, 3629 Mooroopna Primary School is an inclusive school that provides a safe, happy and welcoming environment for students and families. Our school site encompasses our Children and Families Centre as well as Council kindergarten, long term day care and maternal child health. The Centre provides education and health and wellbeing support for parents and children. Our Centre is where our school paediatrician and play therapist are located. Our school has an outstanding speech pathology program and occupational therapy program. Our speech pathologists work with classes to develop speech concepts and literacy skills. Our speech pathologists also provide speech intervention therapies when necessary. Our vision is to support children and families to be safe, healthy and happy.
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Mooroopna Primary School: • Focuses strongly on student wellbeing, literacy and numeracy; Has a strong commitment to arts education, which includes a school band; Adheres to Child Safe Standards which includes proactively teaching students how to be respectful and responsible members of today’s society. We are a Respectful Relationships lead school; Encourages family members’ involvement in their child’s learning; Provides an after-school care program and a daily breakfast club; Works with the wider community to collaborate with students to build career aspirations and wellbeing support; Works collaboratively with external providers within the arts, including The Song Room and Wanyara cultural arts group; Provides a technology rich environment to enhance student learning and school engagement; Provides excellent facilities that provide a wide range of learning environments. Vaughan –
“I’ve had several local gyms or personal trainers come down and run stations, and the Kyabram hospital gets involved. “There’s sort of a bit of a no ownership, so to speak.
In October, the Ky Fit kids will take part in their second Mad Cow Mud Run, with the aim of beating their previous records on the obstacle course. And in November, some of the kids will be heading to the Massive Murray Marathon for a four-day kayaking trip up the Murray River.
Exercising with fun makes all the difference.
Ardmona Primary School is located amongst beautiful orchards and provides a great place for students to learn and grow. At Ardmona Primary each of our students learning is considered to be of the highest importance, and learning and activities are carefully planned and monitored to ensure the very highest standards are maintained. The students of Ardmona Primary School are organised into learning ability groups and can transition across the classes depending on the area of learning with targeted learning programs that support individualised student growth. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL JEAN VARTY ON 5829 0273 | EMAIL: ARDMONA.PS@EDUCATION.VIC.GOV.AU WWW.ARDMONAPS.VIC.EDU.AU
The kids who participate in Ky Fit are engaging in interesting and fun activities that are getting them excited about fitness. In the past 12 months the kids got to participate in the Shepparton Mad Cow Mud Run; head to Torquay for a weekend of surfing, sea kayaking and mountain bike riding; and do their own colour runs.Kyabram’sSenior Constable Mitchell Bull, who organises Ky Fit, started the group because there was a lack of opportunities for kids between years 6 and 9 to be engaged in a community activity, and who were too young or lacked the means to commit to a sporting club or a gym.
“It brings the community together a little bit; I’ve had local business owners that are pretty keen basketballers come down around basketball sessions,” Sen Constable Bull said.
“So it is diverse and has a lot of community input in terms of what skills the community has and are willing to pass on to the younger people to help them build resilience.” And they run the program at no cost to families, so financial pressure isn’t a barrier for kids.
“It gives the kids an opportunity to experience things that probably wasn’t available to them outside of the program,” he said. Each session is run by an independent trainer from the community and has at least one, if not more, local police officers taking part sometimes with CFA or ambulance officers involved alongside other community mentors.
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“There’s always somebody that’s volunteering something to the program.
KY FIT ISN’T YOUR TYPICAL GYM PROGRAM AND IT’S NOT JUST KIDS DOING LAPS AROUND THE OVAL AFTER SCHOOL.
Keep moving and have fun SPORT
ARDMONA PRIMARY SCHOOL
BE SAFE BE RESPECTFUL BE A LEARNER NOWENROLFOR 2023! kids now. | SPRING 2022 19
Ky Fit was created to help kids engage in physical activities.
Authorised by Lovell Wyndham Street, Shepparton VIC 3630. from Parliamentary Budget. VICTORIA
Learn to be a lifesaver
BEING ABLE Street, Shepparton VIC 3630
03wendy.lovell@parliament.vic.gov.au58216668Wendy.Lovell
Funded
REGION Junior sport gives kids the opportunity to get active, play fair, make friends and have fun! Thank you to all the volunteers who make it possible. Grace Larson and her eight-year-old daughter Mieke Larson. 20 kids now. | SPRING 2022
Grace had to respond to her own medical emergency when her youngest child, who was born at the beginning of 2020, developed a lifethreatening heart condition.
LIBERAL MEMBER FOR NORTHERN
TO PROVIDE CRITICAL FIRST AID TO A CHILD COULD BE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LIFE AND DEATH. TWO PAEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE NURSES ARE TEACHING PARENTS WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. LIFESTYLE Wendy LOVELL MP STAY UP TO DATE AND FOLLOW ME ON FACEBOOK WendyLovellMP 222 Wyndham
Because of the lack of access to health services in regional and rural areas, PEADS is working with parents to give them the knowledge, ability and confidence to respond to health emergencies that may threaten their children.
“NobodyGrace said.expects any of these things to happen. So when it happens, it’s a shock.
MP, 222
“When I talk about outcomes, I’m talking about not just discharging someone from a hospital to home, but them having good outcomes.
“It’s not just about survival. We want them to go on and live happy and healthy lives.”
Wendy
“Which is when no-one was seeing maternal child health nurses, you couldn’t even get into the GP, it was really, really hard. Everything was telehealth,” she said. “It really highlighted to me that not everybody had that ability isolated in their own home to know what signs to look for and when to get help.”
“We are in the trenches with parents dealing with our kids’ chronic illnesses, injuries, childhood illnesses … trying to make an impact on the health outcomes for children in the community.
PEADS is an education initiative by paediatric critical care nurses Grace Larson and Sarah Duncanson, providing infant and child first aid courses and information to parents.
“The reality is that children under the age of four are at the highest risk of injury or death and mortality is higher in rural areas compared to metropolitan (according to the ABS),”
“First aid training and knowing CPR has a proven better outcome for both children and adults.”Formore information about PEADS, email: contact@paeds.education
“We are paediatric nurses and mothers who both grew up in rural Victorian towns and are now raising our own children on farms in rural Victoria,” Grace said.
“I hear parents sometimes say ‘I don’t know if I can do that, I’m not smart enough’,” she said.
LIFESTYLE
ANYONE, WHETHER FOR
HOME
“The school kept telling her what her child needed to do to fit in. And I thought ‘no, that’s wrong’,” she said.
The most recent one saw River Connect staff run educational activities teaching the kids about native wildlife.
“You don’t have to have a university education to educate your own kids. To me, it’s an extension of “Andparenting.ifyou don’t know the answers you find out Angelatogether.”said she would continue to home school Verity until her daughter expresses the desire to go to a mainstream school. The benefits of home schooling are numerous. kids now.
A family usually chooses home schooling “because the child has some kind of additional needs that schools aren’t able to meet,” Home Education Network assistant co ordinator Kirsty James says. Those extra needs can take many different forms.
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According to the Home Education Network’s survey of home educators, the main reason they choose to home school their kids is for a
ITS
Moira Home Education Network Facebook group administrator Angela Joy said one of the parents in her Home Education Network pulled her child out of mainstream schooling because the school wasn’t meeting the needs of her child.
Angela is a mum from Mundoona who is one of the 80 members of the Moira Home Education Network and is currently home schooling her eight-year-old daughter Verity Joy-Watson. She loves home schooling her daughter because she can specialise her education to best suit how she learns and spend quality time with her.
DANCE
The members of the Moira Home Education Network come together for educational activities like outings and camps for their kids to learn in a social environment.
OR PHILOSOPHICAL
HOME SCHOOLING CAN BE CHOSEN BY MEDICAL, PRACTICAL REASONS. SUPPORTERS SAY SCHOOLING HAS NUMEROUS BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN.
DANCE
SING SING PERFORM PERFORM
For 3-10 yr olds Term 4, 4 - 5pm Tuesdays Learn calisthenics skills & routines Pupils perform in end of year concert Kick CalisthenicsStart Greater Valley Calisthenics Club Hall • 26 Packham Street, Shepparton info@greatervalleycalisthenics.com.au • www.greatervalleycalisthenics.com.au/kick-start-crew/
“Across the spectrum from kids who might have an intellectual disability, might have a physical disability or learning difficulty like dyslexia all the way up to kids who are gifted,” Kirsty said.
“The school needs to make adaptations to suit the needs of the child, and if that’s not happening, home schooling is an absolutely valid alternative.”
When kitchentheis classrooma
“Parents“happy family”.getting to spend lots of time with their kids, getting to pursue and enjoy things rather than having to try and cram all of that in on the weekend,” Kirsty said. “It’s quite a relaxed pace of life generally.”
As well as home schooling duties, Angela works part-time with deaf children. She is also a PhD candidate developing a thesis on teaching deaf Herchildren.education and career experience make Angela uniquely suited to home schooling her daughter, but she says any parent can do it.
“Sometimes the kids’ needs are very complex, and there’s quite a large number of children who don’t qualify for special schooling, but who are also going to struggle massively in mainstream “It’sschooling.alotfor a school to cater for.”
LIFESTYLE
• No joining fee and no lock-in contract. Cancel any time.
JUST SOME AWESOME BENEFITS:
JUST SOME AWESOME BENEFITS:
We support our members wherever they may be on their fitness journey. Call us on 5832 9400 or pop into Aquamoves today and let us help you.
Aquamoves is proudly provided by Greater Shepparton City Council.Visit www.aquamoves.com.au for more info.
We have a range of new affordable memberships, starting from $15 a week! the communityAQUAMOVEStoday. strong, healthy, happy and connected.
way
22 kids now. | SPRING 2022
• Memberships include free coaching sessions.
Aquamoves is proudly provided by Greater Shepparton City Council.Visit www.aquamoves.com.au for more info.
We have a range of new affordable memberships, starting from $15 a week!
• No joining fee and no lock-in contract. Cancel any time. • Memberships include free coaching sessions.
• Unlimited suspension - so you won’t pay when you go on holiday.
• Memberships include free coaching sessions.
• Unlimited suspension - so you won’t pay when you go on holiday.
Join the communityAQUAMOVEStoday. Get strong, healthy, happy and connected. We support our members wherever they may be on their fitness journey. Call us on 5832 9400 or pop into Aquamoves today and let us help you.
• Unlimited suspension - so you won’t pay when you go on holiday. Visit www.aquamoves.com.au for more info.
Help
support our members wherever they may be on their fitness journey. 5832 9400 or pop into Aquamoves today and let us help you.
We have a range of new affordable memberships, starting from $15 a week! Join the communityAQUAMOVEStoday. Get strong, healthy, happy and connected. We support our members wherever they may be on their fitness journey. Call us on 5832 9400 or pop into Aquamoves today and let us help you.
• No joining fee and no lock-in contract. Cancel any time.
JUST SOME AWESOME BENEFITS:
AWESOME BENEFITS: and no lock-in contract. Cancel any time. include free coaching sessions. suspension - so you won’t pay when you go on holiday. Aquamoves is proudly provided bywww.aquamoves.com.au for more info.
Teaching children how to pack their bag, understanding what’s in their lunch box, how to put on their shoes, how to get dressed in the morning all of these little lessons in being independent will help prepare a kinder kid for primary school. Whenever there’s any adversity, like they can’t find their favourite socks, instead of fixing it for them, teach them how to sort it out Thenthemselves.nexttime they’ll know how to solve their own “Ifproblem.theydon’t get the chance to have that experience, then they’re not going to get it and the older they get the harder it becomes,” Greater Shepparton City Council’s early years manager Sally Rose said. “Make it fun. Being a parent is the hardest thing you’ll ever do, but it’s the best thing you’ll ever do,” she said. “Make it as much fun as possible in whatever you’re doing. So that you’re supporting that Sallydevelopment.”saiditwasn’t just about preparing them academically. It’s about giving them the opportunities for children to think for themselves. And the best way to help them get prepared for school is to teach a child how to behave properly in a social environment. “Don’t expect them to be able to share or take turns every single time yet they’re really not ready for that yet. But give them opportunities to do that,” Sally said. “Give them choices. Rather than insisting on ‘you must do this’ say ‘would you like the apple or the “Helpingorange?’. children to make good choices about their behaviour or hurting hands’, or ‘use your words, tell me what you want without stamping or shouting’. “They’re developmentalall stages and with the more practice a child can get, the better they’re going to cope thatwhateverwithitishappens to come towards “It’sthem.kind of the journey not the end result of preparation.” kids find their own
STARTING ‘BIG SCHOOL’ CAN BE FRIGHTENING FOR KINDER KIDS. BUT PARENTS CAN HELP EASE THE TRANSITION BY GENTLY TEACHING INDEPENDENCE AND RESILIENCE.
On your marks … go!
AileenpresidentLittleSheppartonAthleticsZanalli. kids
VENUE – McEwen Reserve Sports Precinct - Athletics Facility. Numurkah Road, Shepparton. Enquiries please phone 0407 044 111 or email shepparton@lavic.com.auSheppartonLittleAthletics
The goal for our athletes is to achieve ‘PERSONAL BESTS’
We offer two Come and Try days of your choice.
Throwing (Discus, Shot Put, Javelin, Vortex)
SPORT
STORY: DANEKA HILL
“Some kids want to go further with sport while
“I’ve seen kids start really timid and shy, but they come out of their shells,” Aileen said. “A lot of friendships are made between kids who never would’ve met each other because they all go to different schools.”
Little Athletics events include sprints, hurdles, long jump, shot put, javelin and other track and field Aileendisciplines.said her favourite event was the 200-metre “Irace.just love it. They have to come around the bend and there’s so much excitement.
At Little Athletics parents are expected to stick around and lend a hand.
Running (Sprinting, Hurdles and Endurance)
Little Athletics runs on Saturday mornings from October to March — minus a Christmas break.
This year Little Athletics is expanding to include the under-17s age group.
Aileen said inclusion was an important part of Little Athletics.
“Little Aths concentrates on personal bests. We don’t say ‘you came first’ or ‘you came second’, it’s about their PB,” Aileen said.
The Summer season includes all Track and Field disciplines with Cross Country conducted over the Winter Season. Each season there are opportunities to participate in Region and State events for those in the Age Groups from Under 9 through to Under 17.
“I’ve already had a query from someone with a disabled child looking to join this season,” she said.
While Little Athletics focuses on the running, jumping and throwing skills, there is another extremely important skill kids get to exercise — their social skills.
REGISTRATIONS All athletes including Come and Try must register online at www.lavic.com.au AGE GROUPS – Determined as at December 31st for 5 to 16 year old children. (4 year old children can join but must turn 5 by December 31.)
“AsAileen said.youcan understand, you can’t run it without parental help. So mum and dad are helping run things and record scores.”
“It’s not like team sports. If you can’t come one week you don’t have to advise us, just show up when you can,” Aileen said.
“It’s never been a ‘drop and leave’ event,”
HOP, STEP AND JUMP INTO LITTLE ATHLETICS FOR FUN AND FITNESS.
Little Athletics is a modi ed children’s athletics program for 5-year-old to 16-year-old athletes. Introducing Under 17 Age Group for the coming season. Our aim is to develop children of all abilities by promoting positive attitudes and a healthy lifestyle. We welcome children with disabilities and from migrant backgrounds. Athletes participate and compete weekly learning the many disciplines of athletics.
now. | SPRING 2022 23
FAMILY FUN AND FITNESS
TIME – 8.30am for Warm Up. Program commences at 8.45am.
UNIFORM – Singlet, T-shirt or Crop Top available for purchase at the Centre.
PROOF OF AGE is required for new athletes only COST – $142 with discounts applying for 2 or more athletes to be paid online.
“We also offer two free ‘come and try’ days and you can join anytime through the season. Those two free days don’t need to be two weeks in a row either.” You can register for the two free days at: www.lavic.gov.au
Shepparton Little Athletics president Aileen Zanelli said many kids preferred the friendly, family environment of Little Athletics.
After March there is also a cross-country season on Sunday mornings at the Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton. “That’s included in the membership,” Aileen said.
TRACK and FIELD SEASON COMMENCES Saturday October 1st 2022 through to the end of March 2023 with Cross Country conducted over the winter months.
For decades, the popular weekend program stopped at the under-16s, but it was becoming obvious there was a cohort of kids who didn’t want to move into senior athletics right at the end of their school years.
other are just enjoying being out there.”
Jumping (Long Jump, Triple Jump, High Jump)
“Whereas the senior clubs have the adults to compete against.” The focus on personal bests allows Little Athletics to easily accommodate all fitness and commitment levels.
For people interested in giving ballet a try, the best way to join Total Ballet is to check out its Facebook page or go to 46 Midstar Crescent, Kialla and do a free trial lesson in any of the available classes.
Principal: Megan Lloyd 0401 963 344 Website: www.totalballet.net Email: totalballet@bigpond.com
The classes cater for children who are just after a casual hobby and a bit of fun, as well as those looking to take their a dancing a little more Parentsseriously.can also take on the rigours of ballet, with the organisation offering programs for adults to learn the ropes as well.
“We cater for kids with disabilities, kids that are a little bit more gifted and we offer so many different “Ourpathways.bigfocus is fun, especially for the little ones, and after losing a few students [enrolments] through COVID we are keen to now grow the student base once again.”
Kinder Dance A ballet orientated class focusing on basic technique and free movement. Used to introduce the basics of ballet while using imagination and imagery. Classes run for 30 minutes for both girls and boys aged 3+. Classical Ballet Technique classes are taught using the ACB (Russian) syllabi, RAD or ATOD. Classical ballet offers discipline, helps with co-ordination, musicality, strength, flexibility, poise and confidence. Classes for students aged 5+. Exams are available for students but are not compulsory. Contemporary Style of expressive dance that combines elements of ballet, modern dance, jazz, lyrical and free movement. These classes are offered to senior students.
Jazz/Hip Hop Dance routine to various pop/rock/ swing music including current radio hits, it is a lot faster moving then ballet. Classes are run for students from 5 years old to adults.
Total Ballet owner/principal Megan Lloyd said she was committed to building the best children’s program she possibly could.
STORY: ZAC STANDISH Dance like no-one is watchingSPORT 24 kids now. | SPRING 2022
“Our programs teach co ordination, discipline and social skills, which makes it really good for kids.”
Adult Ballet and DanceFit
Skill based class focusing on Arial, Acrobatics and Juggling. Students progress through levels on Aerial Hoops (Lyra and Skills as well as tumbling. It focuses on strength, control and flexibility. All completed under the guidance of our fully trained staff. Ages 6+. Little Monkeys is our pre-school class and focus’ on developing the fundamentals used in Dance Cirque.
“It is really important for kids, especially those who don’t want to do your intrinsic team sports,” she “Yousaid.are still learning the social skills of interacting with other kids, but it is not based on a team and you are working on your own program.
Total Ballet offers its participants a host of different dancing opportunities, running classes in RED ballet, circus skills and jazz while it prepares to introduce a trapeze element later this year.
FlexAbility This class focuses on developing one’s level of flexibility and stretching. This helps with strength and participation in other dance classes. This class is for 11+.
We offer classes for Adults of all levels in RAD and Ballet Fit. The emphasis is on enjoyment and the classes are designed for participants to work at their own level within the group. We offer a broad range of classes to suit all ages!
Dance Cirque + Little Monkeys
THE ART OF BALLET IS ONE FILLED WITH GRACE, POISE AND ELEGANCE. BUT WHEN YOU’RE A KID, IT SHOULD ALSO BE FILLED WITH FUN AND FRIENDSHIP.
Many young children dream of one day becoming a top ballet dancer, flying through the air and twirling across the stage in front of thousands of delirious onlookers. And while it can’t quite offer the sell-out crowds just yet, local studio Total Ballet is giving children a chance to get involved in what is one of the world’s most celebrated dance categories.
“We are very committed to our kids’ program, we obviously want to take on kids from all areas and are very adaptable,” Megan said.
Megan said the benefits of ballet for young children were endless.
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STORY: JAMES KLEEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY: MEGAN FISHER Get
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And with a new game format potentially on the cards next season, GVHA president Cameron Druitt said there was a lot to look forward to in the months to come. “Planning is under way for junior hockey leading into next year’s winter season,” Cameron said. “We’re working with our regional hockey co ordinator and Hockey Victoria in looking to incorporate a modified version of hockey called Hockey 5s into our junior season.” Hockey 5s offers juniors a simpler approach to the sport through its five-a-side format, before youngsters step up to more competitive 12-a-side Withgames.asuccessful competition currently under way in Darwin, Cameron said a lot of hype had been building around the new competition as it was rolled out in hockey clubs across the country. “It’s a five-a-side team competition that is starting to get a lot of traction at national and international level,” he said. “It’s been adopted by a few regional associations for their junior hockey competitions; what it will enable us to do is create more targeted competitions based on abilities, age and Theexperience.”GVHAoffers a safe pathway into the sport for kids of all ages, and prides itself on keeping the fees as low as possible. For anyone interested in giving hockey a go, jump onto http://gvhockey.com.au/ for more info, or check them out on Facebook.
GVGS player Aidan Hamill in action during an under-14s Goulburn Valley Hockey Association match this year. kids now. 2022
The program will run on Wednesday nights for six weeks, starting on October 5 at the regional hockey centre. It aims to provide a platform for all kids who are keen to give hockey a crack, regardless of skill level, before games.make the transition to team-basedtheycompetitive
SPORT
Upcoming Tournaments - January 2023 & Easter 2023 hooked on hockey
With the Goulburn Valley Hockey Association season currently at full tilt, planning is already under way for the 2023 junior season at McEwen Reserve’s beloved ‘Smurf Turf’. The GVHA is largely built upon a budding junior participation, and the club is preparing for a busy term four when its ‘Hookin2Hockey’ program kicks off again.
HOT ON THE HEELS OF THE ALL-CONQUERING KOOKABURRAS WINNING THEIR SEVENTH-STRAIGHT COMMONWEALTH GAMES MEN’S HOCKEY GOLD MEDAL, JUNIOR HOCKEY IN THE GOULBURN VALLEY IS ALSO GETTING READY TO SCALE NEW HEIGHTS.
| SPRING
of action, squash is a sport on the rise. 26 kids now. | SPRING 2022
Whether it is secondary school students attending as part of physical education lessons, talented youngsters taking part in junior tournaments, heading along to a coaching session or hiring a court — there are plenty of ways to get involved in the sport of squash.
what's on FREE AND LOW COST ACTIVITIES
FAST-PACED, NONCONTACT AND SHIELDED FROM THE WEATHER. SQUASH IS A SPORT LIKE FEW OTHERS AND THERE ARE PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITIES TO GIVE IT A GO RIGHT HERE IN THE GOULBURN VALLEY.
“It’s something you can do no matter what your skill level, no matter what your physical capability is,” Christian said.
at the Commonwealth Games, squash also provides a pathway to a high level. “I think it’s becoming more and more popular,” Christian said. “There’s talk of it becoming an Olympic sport at Los Angeles in 2028 and obviously with the 2026 Commonwealth Games coming up in regional Victoria it’s getting a lot more credence I suppose.”Forfurther information on how to get your child involved in the sport, email gvsquashclub@gmail.com
Full
Christian explained the non-contact nature made it more appealing than some other sports, with the social atmosphere a strong selling point, along with the chance to build fitness.
STORY: DANIEL WEBB A sport everyonefor
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SPORT
Goulburn Valley Squash Club president Christian Lecompte said the sport was family-oriented and social.
“It’s a sport that parents and kids can play “It’stogether.aninclusive sport I think, as opposed to some of the other major sports around the place.”
“While it’s an individual sport we do play doubles and we do have different games and things we can play,” he said. “From a fitness perspective it’s very good cardio, very good hand-eye coordination and it’s also a mental game so they’ve got to be thinking about tactics and strategy.”
Get in touch with a club today or contact GVHA for more information. GV HOCKEY CLUBS ARE NOW RECRUITING AND WELCOMING NEW PLAYERS! WE WANTJuniorsSYChockey@gmail.comYOU!@SYChockey@SYChockeySeniorWomen|SeniorMenJuniorsSheppStrikers@gmail.com@SheppStrikers@SheppStrikers|SeniorWomenSeniorMenJuniorssecretary@mooroopnahc.com@mpnahcSeniorWomenSeniorMen GVhockey Wednesdayplayhockey@gvhockey.com.auGVhockey.com.augv.hockey7thSeptember,2022–Come and Try For contactinformationmoreGVHA All Sessions are 5.30pm to 6.30pm Hookin2Hockey Program = 5 weeks Wednesday 14th September, 2022 Wednesday 5th October, 2022 Wednesday 12th October, 2022 Wednesday 19th October, 2022 Wednesday 26th October, 2022 EXPERTSLOCALYOURIN THINGSALLSPORT 100%LOCALLYOWNED&OPERATED 80 HIGH ST SHEPPARTON | (03) 5822 SHEPPARTON@SPORTSPOWER.COM.AU1950 • Fun for all ages • Beginners or regular players • Casual or Competition • Coaching available Mob: 0408 752 453 Email: gvsquashclub@gmail.com Inquiries: Kevin | Mob: 0434 252 215 | Email: sarneva@bigpond.com COUNTRY JUNIOR SQUASH SERIES 2022 CALENDAR DATE EVENT TOWN August 21st: Leeton Country Junior Squash Tournament Leeton Sept 18th: Yarrawonga / Corowa Country Junior Squash Tournament Yarrawonga / Corowa Oct 8-9th: Milawa / Myrtleford/ Bright Country Junior Squash Tournament Wangaratta? Numurkah Nov 26-7th: Wodonga Open Incl. Junior Divisions Wodonga 2023 Jan Circuit and Academy Launch Wangaratta20238-9th:Jan Contact your nearest squash centre or check out our Facebook pages SHEPPARTON JUNIORSHEPPARTON JUNIOR Contact: secretarysjta@gmail.com or Ann Murphy on 0413 145 414 www.tennis.com.au/sjtaTENNISASSOCIATION kids now. | SPRING 2022 27
Kids activities FIND 7 DIFFERENCES MATCH THE FLOWER WITH THE BUTTERFLY WHICH FLOWER ISMAYA WATERING? DOT-TO-DOT
