PakMag Australia – March 2016 Issue 8

ISSUE: MAR 2016

8

AUSTRALIA

Egg Carton CRAFT ACTIVITIES

Celebrate

WITH AN EASTER PARTY

MONEY

HAPPY

Easter!

SIBLING

RIVALRY

C

C

Matters

2

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

P.31

MEGA

HELLO

CONTENTS

WIN

Easter

ISSUE NO. 8 MAR 2016

PRIZE PACK

04 What’s On Australia 08 Feature: Money Matters 11 Slowing Down: Loving Life In The

Hello and welcome to the very special Easter edition of PakMag.

This month we hope to sweeten your life with some awesome Easter ideas including tips on hosting your own Easter party and some adorable Easter egg carton crafts. See inside for more details.

Slow Lane

14 Parenting: Sibling Rivalry 17 Healthy Recipes

We have also welcomed The Block’s Caro and Kingi to our Home section – check out their tips on transforming your little one’s nursery into the ultimate ‘big boy’ or ‘big girl’ space.

19 Bump And Bub: Baby Sign

It is the end of first term and school holidays are upon us again at the end of this month. Can you believe it?! So as usual, PakMag has you covered with everything you need to know about what is happening in your community.

Language

This month my little family and I are jet setting to Hong Kong thanks to The Cairns Airport. I will be sharing our trip in the next edition, so stay tuned!

20 Health: Taking Care Of Your Eyes At Every Age

22 Bump And Bub: WIN!

Have a wonderful Easter break. Whatever you are up to, enjoy, indulge and be safe.

Until next time, take care and don’t forget to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.

24 Craft: Egg Carton Craft

Bree x

27 Active Kids 28 Celebrate: Easter Party

BREE JAMES / PAKMAG PUBLISHER

31 Mega Easter Prize Pack 33 Personal Loans 34 Home: From Cot To Bed 36 Vet: Heartworm Disease

A Silent Killer

PAKMAG P 4053 3331 F 4053 3350 E admin@pakmag.com.au PO BOX 7433 Cairns QLD 4870 FB www.facebook.com/PakmagAustralia T #pakmag DISCLAIMER No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions.

The expressions expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

Deluxe Designer Sara

Events Extraordinaire Kelly

Darling Designer Clare

Sales Guru Angelina

Talented Trent

Grand Poobah Bree Office Aficionado Janelle

Sales Star Cherie

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

Witty Writer Jenna

3

WHAT'S ON MAR NATIONAL

Clean Up Australia Day

Ice Age Live! A Mammoth Adventure WHERE: Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney & Newcastle

WHERE: Nationwide WHEN: Sunday 6 March

WHEN: March - April 2016 MORE INFO

MORE INFO

Ben & Holly Live WHERE: Sydney, Melbourne, Dandenong, Adelaide, Perth & Newcastle WHEN: March 2016 MORE INFO

QUEENSLAND Build Your Own City LEGOTM workshop WHERE: Brisbane Museum WHEN: 10am - 4pm daily, 26 March 10 April 2016

The 52 Storey Treehouse

Scales & Tails Expo

WHERE: QUT Gardens Theatre

WHERE: Brisbane Showgrounds

WHEN: June 14 - June 18

WHEN: Sunday 20 March 2016

MORE INFO

4

MORE INFO

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

MORE INFO

"Elise picks Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 6 March"

www.whatson4littleones.com.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIA Holdfast Bay Outdoor Adventure Challenge WHERE: Da Costa Reserve, Wyatt Street Glenelg East WHEN: 6 March 2016 10.00am - 2.00pm MORE INFO

NEW SOUTH WALES Hi-5 Songfest!

WHERE: Canterbury League Club WHEN: Wednesday, 2 March 2016 MORE INFO

Sparton Junior 2016 WHERE: Sydney (venue TBC) WHEN: Saturday 2 April MORE INFO

Thailand Grand Festival WHERE: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour WHEN: 12 & 13 March MORE INFO

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

5

WHAT'S ON MAR VICTORIA Adventure Kids Festival WHERE: Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort WHEN: 26th March – Sunday 27th March 2016 MORE INFO

Playschool Live in Concert Humpty Tour WHERE: Varoius locations across Victoria WHEN: March 2016 MORE INFO

NORTHERN TERRITORY Easter Saturday at Darwin Waterfront WHERE: Darwin Waterfront WHERE: 10am to 2pm on Saturday 26 March 2016 MORE INFO

6

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

"Elise picks Playschool Live in Concert Humpty Tour throughout March"

www.whatson4littleones.com.au

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Sculpture by the Sea WHERE: Cottesloe Beach WHEN: 4th March 20th March 2016 MORE INFO

Splash Fest WHERE: Swanbourne Reserve WHEN: Sunday 13 March 2016, 2.00pm - 5.00pm MORE INFO

TASMANIA Stemfest WHERE: Redwater Creek Steam and Heritage Society site WHERE: 12 Mar 2016 to 14 Mar 2016 MORE INFO

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY Canberra Balloon Spectacular WHERE: Old Parliament House - Canberra WHEN: 12 March to 20 March MORE INFO

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

7

Mat

s ter

y e no

M

pakmag FEATURE

TEACHING YOUR KIDS ABOUT FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY STORY Jenna Gallina In a world obsessed with the dollar, how can we teach children the value of money all the while instilling good financial habits at a young age? Here are our top tips to help:

Update your piggy bank

nothing else. I gave my three-year-old a $50 note and a $5 note and asked her to choose. She chose the $5 note because it’s pink.

As your kids get older, there are plenty of other games that work with money but you really can’t beat the classic Monopoly.

Nonetheless, money identification is the first step towards money management down the road.

Use cash

Play with it Let’s start with the basics – what can you do with money? You can save it, invest it, spend it or give it away.

Using a piggy bank is a great way to teach kids about saving but it doesn’t cover the different aspects of money management. We love the Money Savvy Pig which includes four different slots and is available through Amazon.com for $25 plus shipping.

Start young As soon as your child can count, you can introduce them to the world of money. Get them familiar with the different colours and sizes of coins and bills.

At a young age, your child is not going to fully understand the value of money but it will help encourage shapes and colour recognition if

8

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Playing “shop” with your little ones is a great way to introduce them to exchanging money for goods.

Let the Children Play have the Honeybake Cash Register - Le Toy Van, a beautiful wooden cash register and play money available for $49.95. Check out www.playmackay.com.au

Pay passing (or pay waving for VISA users) is the easiest route these days but, essentially, every time your kids see you swipe, you are teaching them that you have a magic card that buys things (and you don’t even need to put in a pin number!)

Instead, get in the habit of taking out a certain amount each week and using this money to pay for the various items. Sit down on Monday, split the money into different piles (food, entertainment, fuel, bills) and ask them to help sort the money into envelopes or piles to use throughout the week.

Get App happy A great app to try is Green$treets: Unleash the Loot which is available for iPhone and iPad and teaches children about money management, setting goals,

budgeting and earning money by contributing to the Green$treets community.

The app focuses around rescuing endangered animals and earning money to help care for them. It was developed by Tom Hester, the creator of Shrek, is designed for children aged five and up and comes with rave reviews. Get it at the iTunes store.

Encourage giving as well as spending If you have school-aged children then you will be familiar with the ‘gold coin’ donations requested by the school for various fundraising events.

One of the easiest ways to help them understand the importance of donating is for them to be responsible for their own ‘gold coin’ donations throughout the year.

When offering an allowance, choose smaller bills to encourage savings.

Encourage your children to use the money from the “donate” section of their piggy banks to contribute to these various fundraisers.

If your children receive $5 a week for the chores completed, opt to give them five $1 coins rather than a note. That way they can split up the amount. Perhaps they spend $2 but choose to save $3.

Get visual

Start an account The Student Money Saver Account at Queensland Country Credit Union is an excellent option for children aged five to 18. Kids will get their own deposit book to track their savings, a free piggy bank and bonus interest when they deposit at least $5 a month and make no more than one withdrawal in that month.

Check out www.qccu.com.au for more information.

Pick up a few moneythemed children’s books from the library.

Some of our favourites for younger children include The Berenstain Bears, Trouble with Money, by Stan and Jan Berenstain, Money Madness, by David Adler, Follow the Money by Loreen Leedy, Once Upon a Dime: A Math Adventure by Nancy Allen and One Cent, Two Cents, Old Cent, New Cent

by Dr. Seuss.

A good one for children learning to read is A Dollar for Penny by Julie Grass.

For the older kids, consider If You Made a Million by David Schwartz, Alexander, Who Used to be Rich Last Saturday by Judith Viorst, Growing Money: A Complete Investing Guide for Kids by Gail Karlitz, A Smart Girl’s Guide to Money by Nicole Holyoke and Rock, Brock and the Savings Shock by Sheila Blair.

Help them understand the difference between wants, needs and wishes.

This is a tricky one as often a child will think they “need” a toy “today” when this is clearly not the case.

When they see something they “want” rather than “need,” tell them to sleep on it for a week. If the desire is still there, then they can use their money to buy it.

Lead by example I will be the first to admit that my spending habits are awful and thus, it’s only understandable that my children are already showing tendencies of following in my financial failing footsteps.

Some of the money habits to avoid doing in front of your children are shopping on impulse, buying daily indulgences (like coffee) and using money as a form of bribery.

Instead, when shopping with the kids, make a list and try to stick to it. Get them to help find the items on the list in each aisle.

Avoid buying your daily coffee until after you drop them off at school (or make one at home and bring it to work with you).

Rather than using money as a form of reward, use your time. For example, instead of saying, “If you pick up all your toys, I’ll give you a dollar,” switch it to, “If you pick up all your toys, we can go to the park and play cricket for 15 minutes.”

Yes, money is a great form of satisfaction, but it’s not everything. And we all know the saying, “Money doesn’t buy happiness.” Quality time is always going to trump money, regardless of how old your children are.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

9

10

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

FEATURE

pakmag

Slowing Down Loving Life in the Slow Lane

STORY: Jenna Gallina Sometimes, it’s more than okay to stop and smell the roses.

You know what they say – life moves so quickly. Blink and you will miss it. The cold harsh truth is that in today’s society, it is our second nature to move through life at a lightning pace.

But, while we’re busy speeding down the highway to success, multitasking through our milestones and balancing our personal and professional goals with our parenting duties, what have we missed along the way?

And how can we teach ourselves to slow down, stop, and enjoy the now?

Be present

There is a big difference between being there and being present. Just because you are sitting at the table with your family, doesn’t mean you are actually present. Are you really listening and engaging with your family? Or is your mind wandering into the realm of what you have to do tomorrow?

Are your eyes scanning through the newsfeed on your iPhone?

Use all five senses as much as possible

How often do we just use our eyes to experience something? Take in your surroundings with all five senses whenever you can.

“Life is a journey, not a destination” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Stop feeling like you need to do more Anytime I take a break and just watch my kids play, I feel

guilty. I feel like I should be doing something else – washing the laundry that is piling up, preparing meals for next week, paying the bills.

This is such a bad habit, I know. We’ve been programmed to think that if we’re not multitasking, then we’re not doing enough.

It is enough. Sitting down with your thoughts (without a

computer in front of you) or watching your kids play (without a pile of washing in front of you), is not only okay. It is essential.

Look into the simple life Decluttering your mind also involves decluttering your personal belongings. Having a space that is clean and tidy can make it easier to relax, to unwind and to enjoy the moment.

“For fast-acting relief, try slowing down ” Lily Tomlin

Do things slower Eat slower. Drive slower. Shower slower. Stop rushing through every task.

Get amongst nature One of the easiest ways to slow down and appreciate the present is to get outside. Even a 15 minute stroll (without any distractions such as your phone) can clear your mind.

“The time to relax is when you don’t have time for it ” Jim Goodwin

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

11

pakmag FEATURE

Focus on finding pleasure in every task It may seem impossible to find joy from washing dishes

but rather than rushing through this tedious task, take the

time to feel the suds and appreciate the warm water. Stuck in traffic? Use this time to listen to your favourite tunes, to let the air conditioner cool you down, to take in your surroundings.

There are positives in each and every moment, even washing the dishes.

“Slow down and enjoy life.

it’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast – you also miss the sense of where you are going and why ” Eddie Cantor

accounts once a day and keep your work emails away from home.

Read, Write and Reflect Writing down your thoughts or even your day to day

activities is a great way to really appreciate what you accomplished and how you felt.

If you prefer a digital option, the Realifex app (Real Life Experience) allows users

to record their experiences and the impact it had on

them. This is a great way

to increase self-awareness

and discover the things that really matter to you. www.realifex.com

We are programmed to

focus on the future – to plan ahead, to look for the next

thing to check off our list, to aim for the next goal we want to achieve. There is nothing wrong with being driven to

Switch off

Electronic devices are one of the main reasons our lives have become so hectic. It’s never been easier to check emails, cook dinner and watch a funny YouTube clip all at once. But there isn’t really any need. Switch off for a certain period of time – aim to only check your social media

12

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

succeed and preparing for the future as long as you don’t forget to enjoy the ride along the way.

After all, as every parent knows, kids are only little for a

short period of time. The quicker you speed through life, the more likely you are going to miss those little moments that matter the most.

100% edible

Handmade decorations

for your cakes

Our icingbits turn your cakes into works of art!

For info call 0410 107 722 or visit www.icingbits.com www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

13

pakmag PARENTING

Sibling

Rivalry STORY Jenna Gallina

Ever feel like one of your roles as a parent is to play referee between your children?

Sibling rivalry is a part of growing up. And being in the middle of your children’s fights is an inevitable part of parenting. While some siblings get along great from day one, I have yet to meet a parent whose children have never had a fight.

What your children fight about will range from the completely logical to the absolutely absurd. Often the degree of sibling rivalry and the long-term effect on your children’s relationship depends on what parents do about it.

So, what is the best way to tackle sibling rivalry?

Parenting expert and author, Elizabeth Pantley addresses sibling rivalry in her book Kid Cooperation: How to Stop Yelling, Nagging & Pleading and Get Kids to Cooperate and offers some tips that are invaluable for parents.

U N D E R S TA N D T H E I R E M O T I O N S “Rivalry comes not from their feelings about each other, but from their need to be loved by their parents,” Pantley suggests.

While it may seem like your children really dislike one another, it is often simply that they require more attention from you. Taking these feelings out on their sibling, who is probably getting the attention your child craves at that moment, is a normal reaction.

D O N ’ T A LW AY S B E T H E R E F E R E E While sometimes you need to step up and get in the middle, sometimes it is okay to back down and let your children work it out. Pantley explains, “Allowing your children to drag you into each and every dispute is unhealthy for their relationship and frustrating for you.”

Rather, give them suggestions of how to resolve an issue.

For example, when your child gets angry that his sister won’t share a toy, suggest he uses his words and asks her to swap a toy with him instead.

14

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

F O C U S O N I N D I V I D U A L AT T E N T I O N , R AT H E R T H A N E Q U A L AT T E N T I O N .

In most instances, one child will require more attention than the other. A newborn is going to be a lot more demanding than a five-year-old. As they grow older, one child may require more assistance with schoolwork and reading than the other.

Show positive attention, rather than equal attention. Equal attention is not always fair. It all depends on your child’s individual needs and temperament.

ENCOURAGE A PEACEFUL ENVIRONMENT The best way to promote harmony? Practice it yourself.

Avoid fighting with your partner in front of the children and try to limit yelling, nagging, threatening and other negative behavioural approaches when with your children.

Sticking to a regular routine with rules that the entire family have to follow is one way to keep the peace.

DISCOURAGE DOBBING; ENCOURAGE POSITIVE COMMUNICATION. My daughter’s favourite pastime these days is to dob on her brother. It’s annoying for everyone in the household and usually ends in a fight. Teach them how to communicate between one another without the need to dob.

Pantley suggests, “Keep your words positive, make suggestions and let kids decide what to do with them.” You don’t always have to be the referee. Try to take on the role as a mediator in some instances.

PARENTING

MINIMISE COMPARISONS

SIBLING HARMONY

Nothing is worse than feeling inferior. “Appreciate children for who they are. Don’t compare,” states Pantley.

It’s up to you to help your children get along and one way to do this is to help them see the various positives and roles that a sibling can play. Here are six sibling relationships to try and facilitate.

Your children are going to compete in so many aspects of life but avoid comparing them and focus on their individual strengths and what makes them so special instead.

Promoting this sense of individualism is so much better for their self-esteem and helps deter negative associations with their siblings.

HELP THEM UNDERSTAND JUST HOW INCREDIBLE SIBLINGS ARE Friends come and go; siblings are forever.

Your children are probably still too little to understand how important of a role siblings will play in their lives.

While my brother and I fought throughout our childhood, he is now one of the first people I turn to and one of my best friends. I can only hope that one day, my two will stop arguing about who gets the blue cup and who gets to sit beside me at the dinner table, and realise this important life lesson.

BE REALISTIC

The Helper: One way to help an older child establish a relationship with a younger sibling is to ask them to help out. This can give them a sense of purpose.

The Comforter: Help develop empathy in your siblings by teaching them to comfort one another when they are hurt or sad. For example, if your younger child needs a Band-Aid, encourage your older child to help put the bandage on.

The Teacher: Another option for your older child is to give her the role of the ‘teacher’ to the younger sibling. Encourage your eldest to pass on her wisdom, such as how to hold a spoon, how to play Snakes & Ladders or how to look both ways when crossing the road.

The Co-Workers: Give your children jobs that they need to work together to accomplish. This can give them a taste of the importance of teamwork and a sense of achievement.

You may think your children are never going to get along.

But, one day they will. And you will be amazed.

The Partners-in-Crime: This sounds awful, but often my kids will get along the best when they are up to something naughty. For example, when they are quietly playing together, it’s usually because they are painting the walls, or piling boxes in the pantry to get to the bickies. While you don’t want to promote bad behaviour, you can use this relationship to help them work together on less mischievous activities.

I remember the first time my eldest stood up for his little sister at the park when another child pushed her over. He ran straight up to the child, shielded his sister with his arms, and shouted, “That’s my sister! Only I can push her.”

The Joker: Humour is the best medicine when it comes to conflict. Let your child’s entertainer side come out and encourage him to make his sibling laugh and smile, rather than cry.

Kids are going to fight and it is these fights that will help shape their development and how they socialise with others. Learning how to get along with a sibling teaches them about compromise, competitiveness and conflict, all valuable lessons in life.

pakmag

Hey, it’s a start, right?

PROMOTING SIBLING LOVE THROUGH BOOKS I’m a Big Sister and I’m a Big Brother by Joanna Cole Charlie and Lola Books by Lauren Child What Brothers Do Best and What Sisters Do Best by Laura Numeroff and Lynn Munsinger

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

15

HEALTHY RECIPES hia P amel C udding

ta

on and Basil P m e L o

Salte d

Car

to

d a l a S

PREP TIME 40 mins SERVES 4

PREP TIME 10 mins (plus overnight) SERVES 1

Potato salad is a staple for any Sunday arvo BBQ and also a great non-sandwich lunch idea. Here is a delicious recipe for you to try this weekend.

Who can resist salted caramel pudding? And this recipe, thanks to Pretend Health Freak, is the perfect choice for dessert tonight or breakfast tomorrow morning.

INGREDIENTS 1kg desiree potatoes, peeled, cut into 2cm cubes 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 2 Adfresh farms garlic “Easy Cubes” 4 Adfresh Farms basil “Easy Cubes” 1 tablespoon dijon mustard 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 2/3 cup olive oil 100g roasted crispy bacon strips 120g freshly grated parmesan cheese 1 medium pack gourmet salad mix 1/2 medium-size red onion, sliced

INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons chia seeds 1 cup coconut milk 2 tablespoons tahini

1 tablespoon pure maple syrup Pinch of Himalayan salt Chopped banana

HOW TO MAKE Soak the chia seeds in the coconut milk overnight in the fridge. Place the rest of the ingredients on top of the pudding before serving.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

HOW TO MAKE Place potatoes in a large saucepan. Cover with cold water.

Bring to the boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook potatoes, uncovered, for 3 to 4 minutes or until tender when pierced with a skewer. Drain. Transfer to a bowl.

Whisk together lemon juice and next 5 ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk in oil in a slow, steady stream. Add potato; gently toss to coat. Spoon into centre of individual serving plates, sprinkle evenly with bacon and half of grated cheese.

Arrange salad greens around potato salad and top with onion slices and remaining cheese. Serve immediately.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

THE HEALTHY MUMMY: HEALTHY KIDS COOKBOOK RRP $34.95 WEB www. healthymummy.com ENTER www.pakmag. com.au Getting the kids into the kitchen has never been easier with The Healthy Mummy Healthy Kids Cookbook. Featuring 68 healthy recipes little ones will love.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

17

18

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Baby

Sign Language STORY Alison Cupitt

How often do you wish your baby could tell you what's wrong, instead of you guessing the reason for her tears?

Baby sign language bridges this communication gap. It is completely possible for babies to tell you what they need, what they want or what hurts before they can talk to you. Signing decreases their frustration (and yours!) and lets them start a conversation, giving you a precious insight into their interests and thoughts.

W H AT ?

Baby sign language is based on Auslan, Australian Sign Language and developed by Dr. Joseph Garcia.

It uses hand gestures as a way to communicate basic words, including practical words (eat, drink, sleep), motivational words (play, help, where), descriptive words (pain, hot, cold), manners (please, thank you, sorry) and more.

WHY?

Babies learn to talk earlier and remember the meaning of words faster when the spoken word is accompanied by the signed word. In fact, baby sign increases a two year olds' vocabulary by 50 words, and by the age of three, they have the equivalent vocabulary and language skills of a four-year-old.

Long-term follow-up has shown better recognition of letters and sounds and improved reading and spelling.

WHEN?

Babies have the fine motor skills to sign by six months of age. However, after introducing sign, they may take a few weeks or several months before Babies love to copy and have a they start signing back to you. It is natural inclination to use their hands easy to get discouraged during this to communicate. Baby sign takes Worksheet: BABY DAYS > Baby (General)learning phase, but be patient. When advantage of this.

2/sheet PosterTemplate. Printed from www.SignPlanet.net All rights reserved. the time is right, Page 1your little one will start signing back to you.

Sign language is visually stimulating which improves your baby's Babies of deaf parents have begun attentiveness, inquisitiveness and to sign as young as eight months concentration. of age – an average of four months

Finish

It stimulates both sides of your baby’s brain compared to learning to talk, which only uses the left side.

earlier than a child says his first word - demonstrating that babies have the ability to communicate much sooner than they can talk.

Babies continue to benefit from sign Tap extended pointer and index fingers Tilt fist, with thumb and?pointing Hraised OW of both hands together twice. talking, by upwards, from side to side. language, even once learning signs for words, which are You can start doing baby sign difficult to articulate. on your own. are Worksheet: BABY DAYS > Baby (General)languageWorksheet: BABY DAYSThere > Baby (General) 2/sheet PosterTemplate. Printed from www.SignPlanet.net All rights reserved.

More Father FAT HER

Holdextended hand clawed, palm chest.

Tap pointer andtowards index fingers Tap extended pointed and Move hand forward, away from chest of both hands together twice. slightly. index fingers of both hands

together twice.

2/sheet PosterTemplate.

Page 1Printed from www.SignPlanet.net All rights reserved.

Mummy Finish M UFather MMY

With little finger and thumb folded into Tilt Tap fist, extended with thumb pointer raised and and index pointing fingers little finger and thumb palm tap head with fingers.

May also be upwards, ofWith both from hands side together to side. twice. signed with ainto flat hand. folded palm tap head

with fingers. May also be signed with a flat hand.

Babies can begin lessons as soon as they can sit supported and are never too old to start learning. Lessons are highly interactive with Sophie the signing puppet, toys, books, photo flash cards, and nursery rhymes.

TOP TIPS: • Start slowly with a few signs at a time.

40 years of research confirm the many benefits of teaching your baby to sign:

Father

plenty of downloadable charts, books and online resources or you can look into a class.

• Encourage your baby’s attempts, praise them and repeat the sign back to them correctly.

• Sign language is visual so ensure the sign and words are accompanied by the appropriate Worksheet: BABY DAYS > Baby (General) facial expression.

2/sheet PosterTemplate. Printed from www.SignPlanet.net All rights reserved

Father

Fini

Baby sign language is fun to learn and easy to integrate into your daily life. With consistency, repetition and patience, you will soon be having a conversation with your baby before they can talk!

Alison Cupitt is the owner of Cairns Baby Massage. She now offers sign language lessons for babies and Tap extended pointer and index fingers both handsmore together twice. their carers.ofTo learn visit www.cairnsbabymassage.webs.com or email cairnsbabymassage@gmail.com

Tilt fist, with thumb ra upwards, from side to

Page 1

F I Finish NISH

Tilt fist, with thumb raised and pointing Tilt fist, with upwards, from sidethumb to side. raised

and pointed upwards, from side to side.

MMore ORE

Hold hand clawed, palm towards chest.

Hold hand clawed, palm Move hand forward, away from chest slightly. towards chest. Move

hand forward, away from chest slightly.

Mum

With little finger and t palm tap head with fi signed with a flat han

Artwork from www.SignPlanet.net All rights reserved.

More

Mummy More

Mummy

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

19

HEALTH

pakmag

+ HEALTH Taking Care Of Your Eyes At Every Age STORY Jane Chin – Paediatric Optometrist Our eyes see the wonders and beauty that is our world so taking care of our eyes at every age is vital to our health and happiness.

WE CAN DO THIS BY • Maintaining a well-balanced diet • If taking medications, be aware of the side-effects such as causing dry eyes or blurry vision • Getting enough sleep • Using eye protection to keep our eyes safe Most of us do this on a regular basis but there are a few other things to be aware of when it comes to taking care of your eyes.

iPADS AND YOUR EYES Our world revolves around electronic devices such as smart phones, iPads, tablets etc. Ensure that you stop using these two to three hours before sleeping, as the blue light emitted from the screens stimulates and prevents sleep from happening easily.

Focussing fatigue may occur in both children and adults.

Regular rest breaks from near tasks are necessary. Glasses with blue light filters can also help support the eyes when on electronic devices.

SUN, SAND AND SEE We live in a place of sunshine so it is important to wear good quality polarised wrap sunglasses whenever outdoors in order to provide protection from harmful UV rays and wind.

A favourite past time of many Australians is swimming. Help children when they get irritants such as, chlorine, salt water

or sand in their eyes by flushing or diluting the irritant with non-preserved tear supplements or cold water. Always remember prevention is better than cure. Use of swimming goggles will help minimise the irritants entering eyes.

Prescription swimming goggles are available for adults and children that require glasses to see.

KEEPING AN EYE ON YOUR CHILDREN’S EYES You may not have realised, but our first eye check occurs within a few days of birth. A paediatrician at the hospital will have a quick look for any unusual signs. Any concerns that parents may have such as their child being unresponsive or a family history of eye conditions should be discussed with their nurse, doctor or optometrist.

The Australian Optometrist Association recommends that children have a full eye examination with an optometrist before starting school and regularly as they progress through primary and high school.

Eye examinations should be on the ‘Back to School Checklist’ each year considering the impact of vision on a child’s development, self-confidence and learning.

Annual comprehensive eye examinations for adults help with early detection of eye diseases and support for symptoms of eyestrain.

Don't forget as parents, our children imitate us. Have regular eye checks, maintain good health through balanced diet and exercise and wear sunglasses when outdoors. Look after your eyes; they have to last you a lifetime!

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

21

BumUBp

AND B VISIT

www.pakmag.com.au

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO

Win!

WIN

MY LITTLE OWL LIGHT BABY BLANKETS

m.au www.mylittleowl.co RRP $89.00 WEB of Australian baby a beautiful range ets My Little Owl have skin. Their blank for sensitive baby d ne l sig fee de , by ets ba blank ll make your m’s touch and wi by ed lov are as soft as mu are tterns able. The fun pa to any safe and comfort perfect addition a ke ma ll wi d an bs bu d an a. ali ms str mu stern Au made in Perth, We nursery. Proudly

WIN

SELF CARE FOR NEW MUMS BOOK BY KIRSTIE STOCKX RRP $24.95 WEB www.smilelikeafrog.com/my-books/self-care-for-new-mums Self Care for New Mums is written to help first-time mothers to regain their energy, personal time and meaningful relationships.

Kirstie Stockx realised, first hand, just how hard being a new mum really is. She was tired, isolated and felt guilty about spending time for herself, by herself.

In Self Care for New Mums: A Practical Four Step Guide for First Time Mothers Kirstie’s passion for helping mums feel calm, confident and happy shines through.

WIN

DREAMBABY® BUMP BELT RRP $34.95 WEB www.bubs2bratz.com.au The Dreambaby® Bump Belt is specifically designed to help protect you and your unborn baby whilst in the car. It prevents the seat belt from riding up over your baby bump. The Dreambaby® Bump Belt is comfortable and easy to use.

22

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

HEALTHY EATING DURING PREGNANCY Contrary to popular belief, pregnant mums cannot live on pickles and ice cream. Here is a general guide to what you need to fuel a healthy pregnancy.

CALCIUM: It’s important to up your intake of calcium while

pregnant as it can promote healthy teeth and bones in your baby and also prevent muscle cramps in your body. Aim for three to four servings per day of milk, cheese, sardines, almonds, yoghurt and Brazil nuts.

PROTEIN: As your body is working overtime, you will need

extra protein to keep up. Choose foods like lean red meat, eggs, fish, chicken, lentils, hard cheese and peanut butter.

IRON: Keep your energy levels up with spinach, dried apricots, lean red meat, tuna and beans.

FIBRE: Improve digestion with fibre-enriched foods such

as whole grains, enriched pasta, brown rice, green peas, mixed nuts and leeks.

VITAMIN C: Keep your placenta strong during pregnancy

by adding plenty of vitamin C-enriched foods to the shopping trolley including cabbage, cauliflower, grapefruit, strawberries, tomatoes and oranges.

FOLIC ACID: Folic acid provides assistance in developing

bub’s nervous system so pick up some extra broccoli, spinach, avocado, hazelnuts, cooked beans and wholegrain breads.

WHAT’S OFF LIMITS? Avoid alcohol, sushi, soft serve ice cream, certain salads and deli meats, fish with high levels of mercury and soft cheeses.

BABY TEETHING TIPS Watching your little one suffer is hard for every parent, especially when you know there is very little you can do. Teething, simply put, hurts and it is something all babies and toddlers will experience. Some symptoms of teething include dribbling, cold-like symptoms, lowgrade fever, chin rash, cheek rubbing, gnawing, trouble sleeping and irritability.

How can you ease the pain of teething? Here are a few different remedies to try:

COLD WASHCLOTH: Place a clean washcloth in cold water and put in the freezer for about thirty minutes before giving it to bub to suck on.

TEETHING GELS AND TABLETS: Make sure you speak to

a chemist about how much and how often to give your little one teething gels or tablets.

RUSKS: You can purchase rusks for babies six months and up or make your own.

AMBER TEETHING NECKLACES: Not to be confused with silicone necklaces (below), amber teething necklaces are not to be chewed but are meant to help release succinic acid that can help with the teething pain.

SILICONE NECKLACES AND BANGLES: These

trendy necklaces and bangles are worn by mum (or dad) and give bub something pretty and bright to chew on when teething. There are plenty of amazing companies out there that provide silicone necklaces in all shapes, styles and colours including Bubba Chew, Harper and Hudson and Mamadoo.

www.bubbachew.com.au

YOUR COLD, CLEAN FINGER: Massaging your bub’s gums with your clean finger, rinsed in cool water can also provide relief.

If bub is very irritable and has a fever, then you may also consider children’s Panadol or Nurofen. Just make sure you follow the correct dosage.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

23

pakmag CRAFT

Egg Carton » CRAFT «

Butterfly Garland You need: egg carton, scissors, paint (and brush), pipe cleaners and string To make: Cut the cups out of the egg carton and make a slit in the middle so the cups lay flat. Trim each carton into a butterfly wing shape, paint and let dry before using pipe cleaners for antennas and hanging them up with string.

Thanks to: www.iheartartsncrafts.com

Flower Power You need: paint (and brush), egg carton, paper straw, pom poms, scissors and glue To make: Cut out four containers out of the egg carton and trim to give the shape of the petals. Paint flowers and once paint has dried, glue the paper straw stems to the back and a pom pom in the middle.

Thanks to: www.iheartartsncrafts.com

Itty Bitty Bunny You need: egg carton, scissors, white/pink paint, a black sharpie, and glue To make: Cut out one egg carton cup and two bunny ears, painted white. Draw on bunny’s face and paint the nose pink. Once dry, glue the ears to the back of the cup and add whiskers.

Thanks to: www.craftymorning.com

Cheeky Chicky You need: egg carton, paint (and brush), glue, scissors, a black sharpie and construction paper To make: Cut apart two egg holders and trim off excess edges, glue two pieces together, paint and add a beak and eyes.

Thanks to: www.typicallysimple.com

24

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Half a Dozen Dragonfly You need: paint (and brush), egg carton, white card, tissue paper, glue, pipe cleaner and scissors.

To make: Cut the egg carton in half and paint. Cut the wings out of the white paper and glue tissue paper over the top. Add pipe cleaner antennas and glue the wings to the top of the egg carton body.

Thanks to: www.craftymorning.com

Lovely Ladybug You need: egg carton, black pipe cleaner, googly eyes, black pom poms, red paint, black Sharpie, glue gun and scissors.

To make: Cut a cup from the carton and trim around the edges so it lies flat. Paint red, let dry and glue on the eyes, black pom pom and pipe cleaner antenna before adding spots to the cup with a Sharpie.

Thanks to: www.onelittleproject.com

www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au FEBRUARY MARCH 2016

25

26

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

ACTIVE KIDS Looking for an activity to keep the kids active and engaged in sport?

Check out this month’s Active Kids selection:

SOCCER

TENNIS

Soccer, or football as our English mates call it, is a great way to get out and enjoy a team sport.

Tennis is a great workout for kids and adults and especially fun for little ones with excellent hand eye coordination. There are great tennis clubs throughout Australia.

Children as young as three can join Squirts soccer (sometimes known as Joeys) and many clubs facilitate adults who want to play as well.

Tennis programs generally start at the age of four or five where kids will learn very basic skills in serving, rallying and racket control.

Many programs will offer training several days a week and your child may choose to attend one day or five days.

Training normally occurs once a week with games on the weekend for the older children.

You can expect to pay a fee to join the soccer club of your child’s choice but this will vary depending on the club.

DANCE If your little one likes to move and groove, then dance may be a great option. Some schools offer specific programs, such as ballroom dancing or ballet, while others will have a wide variety of dance programs on offer including jazz, funky, indie, hip hop, tap and cheer.

Another option if you don’t want to commit to a team is to simply take a racket and a couple balls down to the local tennis courts.

Another thing to look at when choosing a dance school is whether it is competitive or simply just for fun. Some schools will offer Eisteddfods while others will work on the principal of no exams and no pressure. Many dance companies also offer adult classes as well as “mummy and me” courses.

Many dance schools have programs for children as young as two. Parents and carers can get involved in the classes and as they get older and more independent, children will generally attend the classes without a parent.

Most programs run in conjunction with school term with training one or two times a week and you can generally pay for one term at a time.

Some schools will require you to purchase a uniform and pay a fee for costumes used during recitals, but, again, this will vary.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

27

pakmag CELEBRATE

EASTER PARTY

Get egg-cited – Easter is at the end of the month (27 March) which means it’s time to enjoy a day of hopping fun!

GAMES Hunt for Easter eggs - This is one of my favourite things about Easter - buying heaps of chocolate eggs and hiding them around the house and backyard for the kids to find.

Do the bunny hop - Use potato sacks or pillowcases paired with bunny ears and hop to the finish line.

Egg and spoon races - Another classic Easter relay game, see who can make it to the finish without dropping their egg.

1

FOOD • Strawberry brownie kabobs • Speckled egg cake • Devilled eggs • Spring chicken fruit cups • Sprinkled chocolate party spoons

2

• Sweet treats topped with incredible icing creations from www.icingbits.com • Hot cross buns

DECORATIONS

5

Perfect your Easter table with downloadable printables where you can get patterned banners, swing tags, drink label wrappers, table bunting, party signs, mini party flags and cupcake toppers.

Set up a craft table where everyone can decorate their own Easter bonnet.

Buy face paint and offer to turn party guests into little bunnies with pink noses and black whiskers

INSPIRATION THANKS TO

3 28

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

1. www.etsy.com/au/shop/SweetScarletDesigns 2. www.ericasweettooth.com 3. www.thecakeblog.com 4. www.familyfreshmeals.com 5. www.icingbits.com 6. www.sainsburysmagazine.co.uk 7. www.sweetapolita.com

4

6

7 www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

29

YOUR STRESS BUSTER

Have you caught on to the colouring-in craze yet? If not, here’s your chance to give it a try. Colour-in is proven to help alleviate stress and anxiety and help you unwind. Don’t believe us? The next time your kids want to colour, print out this PakMag page, grab the texters and join in. Ah. The serenity.

MEGA

Easter

PRIZE PACK

SOLAR BUDDIES WEB www.solarbuddies.com.au RRP $23.95 Solar Buddies are the refillable, mess-free, no-touch sunscreen applicator for the whole family. They are perfect for little hands the chunky bottle shape makes it easy for children to grip. The roller ball controls the sunscreen flow - helping to dispense the right amount. The soft, wide sponge helps children to apply sunscreen evenly and gently. Fill the 100ml bottle with your favourite sunscreen again and again. Solar Buddies are the perfect size for school, sportsbags, handbag or in the car.

BOOK - JODIE'S RESCUE WEB www.shortstoppress.com RRP $19.99 Through all her new challenges – starting a new school, making new friends, and missing her mother – Jodie finds solace in sailing. But will the ocean turn against her? Can she save the lighthouse from development? Who is the girl in the photo that she finds hidden under the stairs? And where is her mother? Jodie’s voyage of discovery takes her to a place she never dreamed she'd be... But how will she convince her father that it’s real? The first in the new YA series from author Diane Fagan, Jodie’s Rescue is a thrilling adventure and now available at all good book stores.

pakmag.com.au WIN!

VISIT FOR YOUR CHANCE TO

TURKISH MURKISH SUPER SOFT TOWELS WEB www.turkishmurkish.com RRP $49.95 Turkish towels are made from Turkish cotton. It is light and absorbent and it dries even faster than Egyptian cotton. But the downside, until now, has been that Turkish cotton can be a bit stiff to start with. When you get out of your shower, and reach for your Turkish towel you want it to be soft and fluffy.

Until now you had to wash a Turkish towel about half a dozen times to get the perfect cuddly feel. The name says it all. It is superbly soft. It only takes one wash to break it in and you’re ready to roll. It relies on a looser weaving technique and pre washing. It does not rely on chemical additives.

NOMAD KID HAIR WAX WEB www.nomadkidhairwax.com RRP $14.20 plus postage Their kids' hair styling wax is natural, nontoxic, chemical free and vegan. It comes in an 80ml aluminium screw top container.

The wax has a soft pliable hold so you can change styles if needed. It has a mild shine and can hold up thick, thin, straight or curly hair. It washes out very well in a warm shower or bath. There’s also the added bonus of smelling like coconuts all day!

MADEL NIGHT LIGHT WEB www.madelnightlights.com.au RRP $85.00 The Madel Night Light was launched in November 2015 to rave reviews, and allows children and parents to create their perfect sleeping environment, setting the colour and brightness at the touch of a button.

Each light includes three swappable designs from the following: Dinosaur, Rocket, Train, Owl, Butterfly, Fairy, Mermaid, & Woodlands Fawn. www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

31

ADVERTORIAL

pakmag

Personal LOANS

Would it surprise you to know that as a nation we racked up over $27 billion in credit card debt over Christmas 2015?

The interest alone on this amount is a staggering $286 million!

Why should we be talking about credit cards in an article about personal loans? Because, a major proportion of personal loans written are to consolidate credit card and other unsecured, high interest debt.

Personal Loans can help people manage their debt as they can pick the loan term that suits their income and pay off the debt over a period of time.

There are a number of options that are worth considering when looking at a Personal Loan for debt consolidation:

When researching the true need for this or any type of loan make sure that you understand exactly what you are agreeing to and that you are clear on what you can and can’t do with the loan product. Be clear with your goals and objectives and where possible, try to pay the loan off earlier to save interest. However, check to make sure there are no penalties to pay the loan out early.

a) If you have interest free card/s that you are refinancing, consider paying them off by the due date as you won’t be charged interest until the due date.

Also research the cost and benefits of Loan Protection Insurance (life cover, disability, involuntary unemployment, trauma cover) which can offer peace of mind in the event of unforeseen circumstances or tragedy.

When applying for a Personal Loan, check with the lender on what proof of income and/or documentation the lender needs to review your application. Most lenders will want to see recent bank statements, income details and/or tax returns - so make sure you bring these with you to your appointment.

b) If you are refinancing credit cards with high debt, consider debt consolidation over switching to another credit card with a no interest period on balance transfers. This way you can pay down the debt over time.

The important thing to consider for anyone looking to borrow is that it should be undertaken to improve your current financial position and make your current debt easier to manage.

Financial stress caused by uncontrolled debt and too many monthly payments can have a far reaching effect on our health and personal and work relationships.

Talk to your financial institution about your current situation and financial goals. It is worth the time to invest in a financial health check.

c) If you have equity or a redraw facility available in your home loan, consider using some of it to lower your debt, especially those with high interest rates. d) Understand the current interest rate you are paying on your credit cards and other debt arrangements.

A Personal Loan may charge a lower interest rate. Also ask your financial institution about banking packages, especially if you have a home loan.

STORY David Smith, Area Manager Far North Queensland

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

33

pakmag HOME

Buzzy Bee Pull Along Toy www.woodnplay.com.au (RRP $38.00)

HOME with The Block’s

Caro & Kingi

The Wiggles Single Bed www.fantasticfurniture.com.au (RRP $399.00)

Toucan - Pillowcase www.everythingsrosie.com.au (RRP $25.00)

Goki Fishing Game www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $38.95)

Terry Toucan Cushion www.ellej.com.au (RRP $44.95)

Little Planes Timber Wall Hook www.ellej.com.au (RRP $49.95)

34

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Sprinkle Cushion Mint www.ellej.com.au (RRP $44.95)

Goki Pirate Kaleidoscope www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $13.95)

From Cot

To BED Making the transition from cot to bed is a big milestone for

both kids and their parents. One of the ways to help young children with this change is to create a fun and cosy bedroom.

It can take some time for your little one to get used to a new bed and you may have a night visitor as your child learns to adapt to the change. Be consistent with your night-time routine and, in time, your little one will learn to stay in his or her own bed.

Involve your children in the design of their new room, asking what theme they would like and letting them pick out the bedding, the pillows, the posters, the wall stickers or the colour of paint.

Make a big deal about your child’s ‘big boy’ or ‘big girl’ status to encourage independence and excitement in the change.

Follow Caro & Kingi on Facebook (CaroAndKingi), Twitter (@CaroAndKingi), Instagram (#CaroAndKingi) and online (www.CaroAndKingi.com).

Zac Zebra Cushion www.ellej.com.au (RRP $44.95)

Lionel Lion Cushion www.ellej.com.au (RRP $44.95) Thomas & Friends Snuggletime Toddler Bed Mattress and bedding not included www.toysrus.com.au (RRP $199.99)

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

35

pakmag VET

HEARTWORM DISEASE A Silent Killer STORY Jane Quinn

Heartworm is a worm which lives in the heart and blood vessels of dogs and less commonly cats. Transmitted by mosquitoes, it has the potential to cause serious, chronic and fatal heart and lung disease in unprotected pets. Humans can occasionally be infected with heartworm with severe consequences.

HOW HEARTWORM IS TRANSMITTED FROM PET TO PET

PREVENTION OF HEARTWORM

Adult heartworms are about 20cm long and 1mm in

Many products are available to prevent heartworm disease.

The good news is heartworm is completely preventable.

diameter and live in the heart and blood vessels going to the lungs. They produce larval offspring called microfilaria

For dogs we recommend Proheart Injection.

Proheart injection is given annually and ensures that no doses are missed which is a common occurrence when using monthly tablets/spot ons.

that float around the blood stream. Mosquitoes suck blood containing microfilaria from infected animals and then transmit these larvae from animal to animal. After initial infection these larvae take approximately six months to develop into adult worms which reside in the pet’s heart.

SYMPTOMS OF HEARTWORM INFECTION Heartworm physically blocks the heart and lungs causing problems with the function of these organs. Clinical signs

For cats we recommend Advocate.

Advocate is a monthly spot on treatment that not only prevents heartworm but also prevents fleas, mites and some intestinal worms.

of heartworm disease are varied but may include coughing, sluggishness and difficulty breathing. Some infected animals may show no signs of the disease at all.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF HEARTWORM INFECTION Heartworm infection is diagnosed by performing a simple blood test with results available within 10 minutes. As dead worms aren’t voided from the body, the blood flow pushes the dead worms from the heart into the lungs causing lung

36

IMPORTANT

disease. Animals that are infected with heartworm are

Never give heartworm tablets to an animal which may have

treated slowly to minimise the effects of the dead worms

heartworm (has missed treatment or has not been on a

on the health and survival of your pet. Treatment can be

heartworm preventative previously). If your pet has missed

expensive and dangerous especially if there are many

treatments speak to your vet before giving any heartworm

worms present.

preventative.

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

37

38

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au