PakMag Mackay - August 2017 Issue 58

ISSUE: Aug 2017

58

MACKAY

SPOTLIGHT ON

SPECIAL FAMILIES

EXCITING WORLD OF SCIENCE THE

PHYSICAL DISABILITIES IN CHILDREN

FATHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

FREE

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 1

CONTENTS 04 Entertainment: Check It Out 07 The Thing Is...

With Bree James

08 Feature: Spotlight on

Special Families

11

Education: Independence

is the Key to Being Ready

for Kindy

13 Education: The Exciting

World of Science

15 Health 17 Healthy Recipes

I love August. Not just for the balmy winter days or the crystal clear skies, but also because August is PakMag’s Special Needs Edition.

For me, this is one of my favourite editions as we are able to shine the spotlight on families who face adversity on a daily basis and are an inspiration to us all. This month we are featuring three local families who have children with a range of disabilities but still live life to the fullest.

Hearing their stories really was an eye-opener too. Their positivity is moving, and their common wish to encourage others to come and say hi should encourage us all to step up and give the kids the positive attention they deserve.

Our theme of special needs runs throughout the magazine with sensory crafts and advice on how to design your own sensory garden too.

With Father’s day being so early in September (FYI – it’s 3 September, don’t forget!), we have gotten in early with our Father’s Day gift guide and are giving away hundreds of dollars in prizes. Make sure you check that out on pg 33 and enter the draw to win for the dad in your life (or yourself!).

19 Babyproof for Peace

of Mind

20 Bump, Bub And Beyond 23 What’s On Guide 25 Mini Mag 33 Father’s Day Gift Guide 37 Physical Disabilities

42 Craft: Sensational Sensory Fun

44 Celebrate: Take Your Next

Party to the Skies

47 Business 48 Home with Caro & Kingi:

On the cover Lexi Punzell Photography Indigo Blue Photography, www.indigobluephotography.com.au Contact Us: p 4053 3331 f 4053 3350 e admin@grandpublishing.com.au a Po Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870 fb facebook.com/pakmagmackay t #pakmag

in Children

40 Snapped

Bree James Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief

Sensory Gardens

50 Daddy Diary

Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James Operations Manager Rose Foster Graphic Designers Clare Winter Lise Mardon-Smith Marketing to Families Experts Lisa Gillman Steph Bartram

Office / Production Manager Janelle May Sub-Editor Kate Moloney Supply & Distribution Manager Gleisy Meireles Accounts Trent Stievano Media Intern Monique Saggers

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.

Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2018

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 3

Entertainment

CHECK IT OUT The Whitsunday Reef Festival When: Thursday, 3 to Sunday, 6 August 2017 Where: Airlie Beach More Info: www.whitsundayreeffestival.com.au The Whitsunday Reef Festival is held in the vibrant town of Airlie Beach.

A delicious combination of family fun, all-night celebrations, local food and fashion and some of the biggest street parties in the north. The four-day celebration of the reef will feature the spectacular Fireworks on the Foreshore complete with carnival rides, food stalls and night markets lining the beautiful Airlie Beach foreshore.

Forty Winks Car Park Cinema When: Saturday, 5 August Where: Forty Winks Car Park More Info: facebook.com/ fortywinksmackay Get down to Forty Winks Mackay to watch Titanic from their awesome car park cinema.

Entry is gold coin donation – make sure you bring your own chairs. Plus, save the date – Forty Winks Mackay Car Park Cinema is on the first Saturday of every month.

2017 Mackay Wedding Showcase When: Sunday, 06 August 2017, 10.00am to 2.00pm Where: MECC More Info: www.mackayweddings.com The Mackay Wedding Showcase features local business experts in all facets of wedding and associated event arranging. Displays of products, advice, and the latest trends are featured at the one location to make your choices very convenient. Brides-to-be can enter the draw for many great prizes by visiting the website.

Entry: Gold Coin Donation to Breast Cancer Support Services.

Horrible Harriet

North Queensland Babies & Kids Market

When: Saturday, 26 August 2017, 4.00pm and 6.00pm Where: MECC More Info: www.themecc.com.au

When: Sunday, 27 August 2017, 8.30am – 2.00am

CDP presents Horrible Harriet, a play by Maryam Master adapted from the books by Leigh Hobbs Look out! Here comes Horrible Harriet. She’s wicked, wild and wonderful! Horrible Harriet lives in the roof of her school and keeps teachers chained in the cellar to do her homework.

Tickets $15 Recommended Age Group > 4+ years

Where: Mackay Showgrounds Hall More Info: www.nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com The North Qld Babies & Kids Market was developed due to an overwhelming response to one mum organising a small market to sell pre-loved babies and kids goods. The market has grown from 8 stall holders to over 90 displays of pre-loved, handmade, new or promotional stands. The Market is not only for parents to buy and sell good quality pre-loved babies and kids goods but also provides an avenue to connect mums with mums; and local home-based businesses and services. $2 Adult and Children Free

4 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Save the date: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt When: Monday, 4 September 2017, 6.00pm When: Tuesday, 5 September 2017, 10.00am and 12.00pm Where: MECC More Info: www.themecc..com.au We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is the wonderful story of a family out for a walk and on the lookout for a growling bear.

They have to march through long swishy grass, wade through thick gloopy mud and even battle a snow storm before entering a big dark cave where maybe they will finally spot the glinty wet eyes of a slobbering, gigantic bear winking at them through the blackness.

This 55-minute mini-musical captures the fun and frolics of a father who is clearly still a child at heart, his three children including a tiny intrepid bear hunter in the making. aby is strapped to dad’s back plus the family dog and of course....a big, brown, cuddly bear!

Tickets $15 Recommended Age Group > 2 to 8 years

Diary of a Wombat When: Tuesday, 26 September 2017, 12.00pm and 6.00pm Where: MECC More Info: www.themecc.com.au Millions of young people around the world have adored the multi award-winning picture book, Diary of a Wombat.

Now finally this iconic work by Australian children’s Laureate, Jackie French and Bruce Whatley comes to the stage.

Meet Mothball, the naughtiest wombat in Australia, bored with her daily routine, Mothball goes in search of shelter and food, creating chaos in the lives of the humans around her.

All tickets $15. Recommended Ages 3 – 9

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 5

The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James

One of my favorite sounds in the whole world is the sound of laughter. Not just any laughter, but the laughter that literally makes someone’s whole body shake, and their eyes water with happy tears.

The thing is, we can learn a lot from children and laughter, and as adults I think we need to observe kids more and take a leaf out of their silly book.

I’ve heard some funny things in my life and since being a parent, I think the things that come out of our children’s mouths can be hilarious. Sometimes disturbing.

Sometimes innocently inappropriate, and sometimes just so cute it makes your heart melt.

Having sons, most of the laughter in our home is from inappropriate behaviour. I constantly catch myself laughing at the kids’ antics, even though I know I shouldn’t encourage them. From them telling their daddy that he is furry like the dogs or smells as bad as them, to catching them sniffing each other’s butts to see who’s fart smells the worst, I’ve seen it all. With my first born, it was easy to turn away and laugh without him knowing and then the behaviour stopped. But my second child really is a clown. Since he was little he has made his big brother laugh, it is his favourite thing to do and it is a daily occurrence. The older they get, the sillier they become.

and his big brother is crying with laughter. From terrible puppet shows where every hand puppet dies then flies through the air, to dancing like he has been electrocuted, or the magic tricks that are so bad you can’t help but laugh. Kids sure know how to have fun.

The inappropriate things they say innocently is the absolute worst. I wanted to curl up and die when one of the boys was nearly two and he pointed at an African man at Bunnings and said, “Monkey” (thankfully he laughed and said it happened all the time), to saying loudly in a restaurant, “Mummy what’s your doodle called again!?” My kids have said and done things that have embarrassed me many times that I have said loudly, “You wait ‘til I tell your mum” to try and stop the stares, for them to reply, “You are our mum”… Dang it, deflect plan didn’t work.

The thing is, if we ever need cheering up, being around children in a silly mood will brighten your day. As hard as it is, it’s so important, in our serious world, to embrace our inner child and have some fun. So jump on that trampoline (don’t wet yourself), run around the house, play hide and seek, jump on their scooter, and do silentbut-deadly farts. Your kids will love you for it.

It is so hard as an adult to not laugh when your youngest is doing something inappropriately funny,

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SPOTLIGHT ON SPECIAL FAMILIES PakMag loves to shine the spotlight on local families who have an inspirational story to tell. And they don’t come more inspirational than our featured families this month. Living with special needs is no easy feat, yet these amazing families’ positive outlooks and attitudes show that it is possible to have an amazing life in the face of adversity.

Meet Lexi When Lexi was born she was the first girl in her father, Matthew’s family for 71 years. When Lori Punzell found out she was pregnant, her sons Nickolas (10) and Michael (7) were thrilled to find out they had a baby sister coming and counted down the days waiting for her arrival.

Her first week was one of surprises, fear and joy. Lori and Matthew underwent all the new testing, but none of it picked up Down syndrome. So, their first week, after discovering their new daughter Lexi has a disability was hectic to say the least.

“The only thing that got us through all those medical conversations and tests was family,” Lori said. “We are blessed to have such a supportive and loving family.”

“The doctors told us all about the many things that could be wrong and the hardships we would face, but they couldn’t tell us who she would be and how she would change us all.”

Lexi’s family describe her a very happy and sweet girl who greets each day with a huge smile.

Lori is thankful that Mackay has some great support networks for children with disabilities. Bec Nicol from All Abilities Mackay was a huge help to the Punzell family as “she was a wealth of information and support.”

Meet Tahlia Single mum Cassandra and her daughter Tahlia are living life to the fullest, and in the face of adversity, they aren’t letting anything slow them down.

Tahlia is two years and eight months old and was born with a rare condition called Lissencephaly.

This essentially means that she has a smooth brain, with no gyri or folds in the brain and is developmentally behind (roughly three months of

8 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Sweet Fields Photography

“Finding others who have walked the path before you can be a great help.” Lori says. “After meeting others in our situation and spending some time with our beautiful new baby girl, we realised Down syndrome is nothing to be feared. Lexi will need some extra help to achieve the same things most kids do naturally, but she will have a full and rewarding life.”

Lexi started physiotherapy and occupational therapy from the age of four months and that has helped her gain muscle tone and learn to crawl and sit.

age). Unfortunately, Tahlia also suffers from multiple different types of seizures on a daily basis.

“We have been blessed to have such a wonderful, supportive team and group of family and friends that help raise Tahlia.” Cassandra says. “Tahlia has many friends in the community and has a very active social life.”

In spite of her condition, Tahlia leads a very active and busy life.

With physiotherapy and speech therapy once a week as well as occupational therapy once every fortnight, plus swimming twice a week and “Kids in Harmony” on Tuesday mornings, Tahlia’s life is jam-packed with activities.

“We never knew quite what to say when we met kids with a disability before we had Lexi.

Now we do. Don’t be scared, be kind. Smile, let your kids say hello. You could end up making a child’s day.”

Currently, Tahlia is starting to become an active communicator, telling her mum exactly what she wants and feels using a AAC (alternative augmentative communication). This is a big step for her as she has started

Feature

“I've had many struggles with coming to terms with Tahlia's diagnosis and what this means for her.” Cassandra tells us. “When she was first diagnosed, we were told that she had a life expectancy of roughly 2 to 10 years, not to mention that there is a likelihood of Tahlia not being able to crawl or walk by herself. This means that she will be reliant on me for the rest of her life for daily chores such as eating, drinking or bathing.

Amy Reinke, Lilac Photography

saying a few words here and there, which is something that was never expected. Cassandra has high hopes that in the future, Tahlia learns to

communicate with other children of her age and teach them other methods of communication in the process.

“Even before Tahlia was diagnosed at five-months-old, we always said she was pretty special, we just never realised how special she really was. Tahlia is absolutely beautiful on the inside and out.

She is very caring, affectionate and loves cuddles and kisses.

I love everything about her,” says Cassandra.

Meet Jett Jett is an easy-going, happy, handsome young man at the ripe old age of five, from Mackay.

He was born with a rare genetic disorder called Mowat-Wilson Syndrome, which affects many of the body’s systems.

Jett’s family consists of mum, Amie, sister, Taylor, stepsister, Mercedes, dad, Brett and stepmum, Tara.

“Being told early on that something is not quite right with your child but that it is not known what, was very hard, frustrating and somewhat confusing.” Amie tells us.

Amie pushed for answers and finally Jett was given a diagnosis.

Mowat-Wilson Syndrome often leaves sufferers with delayed development, an intellectual disability and distinctive facial features, as well as microcephaly, epilepsy and heart defects. “As a mum, I have always gone with my instincts when it comes to my kids and if I feel something needs further assessment or investigation, then I push for it and I don't stop until I have an outcome.”

“Jett is awesome,” his mum comments. “He is very determined to be happy, regardless of what he has to endure. Due to Jett's

Candice Van Moolenbroek Photography

acute hypotonia (very low tone) everything he does requires a lot more energy than for any typically developed five-year-old. It took Jett three years and a hours of therapy to learn to walk and feed himself.

“Jett does what he is required to in therapy when he would much rather be playing with his cars or using the iPad. Jett must get frustrated without being able to verbally communicate his needs to us but he remains a very gentle and kind individual.”

Sharing her advice for other parents in a similar situation, Amie says “Don't give up. If you are told, let's wait and see, but in your heart, you know that you need to be doing something, investigating further, then don't stop, start whatever treatments and therapies you can for your loved one as early as you can in order to provide them with the best possible future. Not having a diagnosis doesn't stop you from wanting the best for your child.

Do what you can, when you can, however you can.”

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 9

Education

Independence is the key to being ready for kindy STORY Catholic Education Services

Starting kindergarten can be so exciting for your child but somewhat daunting for you as a parent. Some questions you may find yourself asking are, “Are they going to like it?”, “Will they be okay?”, “What if they miss me?”, “Will they make friends?”, “Will they eat what I pack for them?”, and the list goes on.

Rest assured, your child will love kindergarten! They will thrive and make friends. So much so, you will probably have to remove them from the grounds kicking and screaming. However, like all new chapters, it is important your child is ready for this next step.

Here are some tips for getting your child kindy-ready: •• Read with your child (every day is best). Talk about the book, ask your child questions about the pictures and don’t be afraid to re-read the same book multiple times. Repetition is key!

•• Talk about colours, numbers and shapes in a range of contexts (e.g. books, road signs, magazines, newspapers, fruit and vegetables while at the supermarket).

•• Practise writing their first name or making it with plastic letters or tiles.

•• Introduce them to numbers 1 to 10.

•• Encourage them to use greetings such as “hello” or “good morning” when meeting people.

•• Classify objects according to their shape, size and quantity. When you’re cooking, talk about what you’re doing and describe the sizes and colours of bowls and plates. What ingredient comes next and how much is needed.

•• Give your child simple instructions to follow to get them used to following simple directions.

•• Play listening games and encourage children to listen to natural sounds such as birds chirping or dogs barking.

The most important thing to remember is not to panic.

If your child hasn’t completely nailed everything on the list, it is okay! They will learn a lot in kindergarten.

What’s more important is to begin increasing your child’s independence in completing simple tasks. For example, help them to zip up their jacket, tie their shoes or use Velcro strips. The main thing is to engage with your child and be excited for them; this is the beginning of their life of learning.

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 11

Education

The Exciting World of Science STORY Rose Foster

August is National Science Month and all around the country there are events to help get your kids excited about this awesome subject. There are so many reasons that science is super-cool and getting the children interested in this diverse subject will open a world of possibilities to them that they never knew existed.

The Importance of Science Studying science at school helps children develop invaluable skills and understand the world around them. Through planning experiments, analysing data, gathering information and working in teams, children learn skills that will help them in life, not just if their future career involves science.

Whilst we may not think it, science actually influences many of our daily activities and the decisions we make.

We can make informed decisions about how to tackle a problem, think analytically about issues we may face and understand the physical consequences to certain actions.

Cool Careers Studying science gives way to a multitude of opportunities and a world of wonderful possibilities.

Check out these awesome careers for people who study science.

•• Zoo Endocrinologist – helping animals by developing breeding programmes and studying habitats.

•• Drone Pilot – with the development of drone technology, there is an increasing demand for this job. Companies like Amazon and Google have already begun testing a delivery service by drone.

•• Ethical Hacker – on the front line of cyber security, this job involves exposing your company’s cyber flaws to help protect them from malicious hackers.

•• Food Chemist – a food chemist experiments with food on a chemical level to make food easier to ship, more long lasting and tastier!

•• Storm Tracker – these daredevil scientists track storms and collect data on tornados, cyclones, flash flooding, and more.

Making Science Fun Sometimes sitting in a physics lesson, learning equations might not be the most fun activity. But there are a number of ways that schools engage children in science in a fun way too… and there are some ways that you can encourage fun science experiments at home too.

Here’s some ways that you can get the kids involved in science at home: •• Plant a garden – plant a flower or veggie garden and track its progress with your little one.

•• Get In the kitchen – there are a number of easy science experiments that you can do in the kitchen.

There are so many to list here so we recommend googling “kitchen science experiments”.

•• Take simple household items and discover together how they work. Lightbulbs are great for this.

Check It Out We spoke to Kay Lembo from National Science Week, who gave us some tips on where you can find more resources.

•• Visit www.asta.edu.au for some awesome free downloadables.

•• Get along to your local National Science Week event.

Go to www.scienceweek.net.au to find out about events in your local area.

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 13

Health

HEALTH Is bedwetting causing your family distress?

Jeans for Genes

STORY Dial a Home Doctor Mackay

On the first Friday of August, each year, Jeans for Genes Day is celebrated. People all over Australia are invited to dress in jeans for work or school to raise money for the Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI).

As parents, we deal with numerous challenges every day, usually learning as we go. Some things are easily fixed, and some require a little more time and energy. One issue that can cause concern is bedwetting.

Bedwetting can cause sleepless nights and piles of washing. If a child is older and at school, it can inhibit their desire to ‘sleep over’ at their best friend’s place.

It can also cause emotional distress for everyone in the family, especially mums and dads trying to do their best.

So, what do you do as a parent if you are faced with a child who continually wets the bed? Let’s shine a little light on some of the facts: •• Children do not wet the bed on purpose.

•• Bedwetting is as common as having a fussy eater.

•• It is more dominant in boys with around 10 per cent of five-year-olds wetting the bed.

•• Very rarely, in fact, in around two per cent only, medical causes are the reason for bed wetting.

Bedwetting is challenging for families so here are some ideas that might help you get back to getting a good night’s sleep: •• Make sure your child goes to the toilet before bed.

•• Use waterproof sheets.

•• Have spare pyjamas and sheets next to the bed, just in case.

•• If your child is a little older, it’s okay to get them to help change their beds – not as a punishment, but to help them learn to deal with the situation.

There are however, situations where it’s time to get medical help. Westmead Children’s Hospital recommends that this might be a good idea if: •• Your child is still wetting the bed after the age of about six or seven, and the child is unhappy or worried about it.

•• Your child has persistent daytime wetting.

•• Your child has been dry at night for over a year and suddenly starts to wet the bed again.

Every child is unique, so if you are concerned, it’s always best to seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your child’s condition.

The CMRI is a superb organisation conducting vital research into children’s health.

One in 20 children are born with a birth defect or genetic disease and the CMRI aims to cure childhood diseases.

And they believe they will do just that. As a result of medical research, diseases such as polio, diphtheria and smallpox are a thing of the past.

Over the past 60 years, the CMRI has achieved some extraordinary medical advances including creating the first research unit for newborns which dramatically improved premature baby survival rates.

But they need your help to advance further, so why not get your workplace involved in Jeans for Genes Day? For more information, visit www.jeansforgenes.org.au to register.

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 15

Healthy Recipes

HEALTHY RECIPES

Baked Falafel Nourish Bowls

Raspberry Matcha Muffins

Falafel Ball Ingredients

Ingredients

1 cup of dried chickpeas, soaked and cooked 5 cloves of garlic 1 lemon, juiced 1 ½ tbsp of apple cider vinegar 2 tbsp of buckwheat flour Two big handfuls of fresh parsley 2 tsp of ground cumin 1 tsp of salt 2 tsp chilli flakes

½ cup of spelt flour ½ cup of banana flour 1/3 cup of coconut sugar 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp matcha powder (optional) ½ ripe banana mashed (about 1/3 of a cup) 1 tbsp of rice malt syrup ¾ cup of milk (rice, coconut, soy, almond) 1 tsp vanilla powder 1 - 1 ½ cups of frozen raspberries

Nourish Bowl Ideas Brown rice, hummus, cucumber, hulled tahini, avocado, greens, cherry tomatoes, parsley, mushrooms and shallots. The possibilities are endless.

Method

Method

In a bowl, mix your flours, baking powder and coconut sugar.

Preheat oven to 180°C and grease a baking tray.

Throw together all falafel ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend until combined but still slightly chunky. Using your hands, form balls and transfer them to the baking tray, pressing down to flatten slightly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until browned on either side, flipping them after 15 minutes.

Assemble the bowls with your vegetables, falafels, brown rice, a dollop of hummus, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of tahini.

Preheat your oven to 180°C and grease and line a muffin tin.

In a separate bowl, mash the banana and mix it with the rice malt syrup, milk of choice and vanilla.

Add the raspberries to the dry mixture, coating them in the flour, then pour the dry into the wet and mix until just combined.

Spoon into muffin tin and bake for 35- 40 minutes or until knife comes out clean.

Recipes bought to you by The Source Bulk Foods. Check them out on Facebook: /TheSourceBulkFoods Recipes created by Madeleine Lumley. Check her out on instagram @madeleinelumley.

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 17

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Babyproof for peace of mind STORY Kate Moloney

You’ve gotten through the sleepless night period, you’re finally feeling like you’ve got this parenting gig under control, and then someone moves the goal posts on you again, they start moving independently!

Once babies start crawling, it’s time to up the ante, get down on all fours and have a good look at your home from a different vantage point; a baby’s-eye view! You’ll be surprised by the dangers that present themselves to your seriously curious baby. It is a good idea to go around your home, room by room, and address all the things that suddenly have now become obvious dangers to you.

Take note of sharp corners on any furniture, assess what they can reach, and look for any breakable items that can be reached or could fall by the wobbling of the furniture. Look at your furniture in terms of its stability will the coffee table tip if it is pulled on one side? Is all of your tall furniture stable or affixed so there’s no danger of it toppling should your little one want to climb it? Is the television out of reach?

This is also the time to consider all the ‘little’ things that you may have around too. Babies love to put things in their mouth, and these may pose a choking threat to your little one. And they will find them! A good rule is, anything that can fit through an empty toilet paper roll should be locked away.

Cupboard doors and draws can be babyproofed to ensure the treasures inside are kept safe (and your little one too). There are numerous safety latches and locks available, as well as DIY tricks such as using hair ties or rubber bands to stop little hands from being able to pull open draws or cupboards.

Doors also pose a danger to little fingers. Invest in some door stops, or you can cut up a pool noodle, put a slice in it and affix to any sized door to prevent it from slamming.

Electrical outlets also are an absolute magnet for babies too, ensure you cover any unused outlets with covers and that any electrical cords are tidily tucked behind furniture and out of reach.

Safety gates are great to totally block off entire rooms that pose too many dangers and are better kept out of bounds all together. Gates can also be used to keep them in a particular space that you have babyproofed and know is safe.

Babyproofing your home leads to peace of mind. Get these things sorted early and you can just sit back and enjoy as your little one takes in the wonder of being able to crawl and discover all the curiosities of your home.

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 19

Bump, Bub and Beyond

BUMP, BUB AND BEYOND Featured products, reviews and prizes. Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!

Wonsie - Larger sized bodysuits RRP $63.83, www.wonsie.com.au Wonsie specialises in larger sized bodysuits for older children, teenagers and most adults. They are designed to assist specific needs for families who live with disabilities.

LeapFrog Sing & Spin Alphabet Zoo Ball RRP $34.95, www.leapfrog.com.au LeapFrog, an innovator in learning toys for children, believe that every child’s development is a continuous journey that happens one spark, one discovery, one success at a time.

The fun starts with the Sing & Spin Alphabet Zoo Ball! Discover the alphabet from Alligator to Zebra! Little ones learn about animals and their sounds plus the letters A to Z with each spin of the wheel. Music, lights and swirling patterns encourage exploration. Babies develop motor skills by batting the wheel again and again.

LeapFrog toys are available from Big W, Toys R Us, and independent toy retailers. Check out LeapFrog news on Facebook LeapFrogAustralia and Instagram Leapfrogofficial.

20 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Their “wonsies” help to keep wandering hands out of nappies and incontinence pads and deters inappropriate undressing. They keep curious fingers out of feeding buttons/PEG tubes and prevents eczema sufferers from scratching tummies. They are great for keeping people in wheelchairs comfortable and also specialise in styles to assist peg-tube feeding. New to the range is the Back Zip Jumpsuit which is designed to challenge your escape artist!

Wonsie is proud to be a registered provider to the NDIS. Shipping is available worldwide and FREE within Australia.

Illume Learning Education Resource Pack RRP $92.00, illumelearning.com.au Illume Learning supports the education of students with diverse learning needs. They’ve put together a selection of their most popular education resources with a focus on literacy, fine motor development and handwriting.

This engaging resource pack is sure to be a hit with your little learner!

Prize includes 1 x tactile letters set, 1 x lace and link letters set, 1 x A-Z flash cards set, 1 x pencil stylus and 1 x pencil grip pack.

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Hip dysplasia STORY Monique Saggers Your baby has just been diagnosed with hip dysplasia, and the first thing that hits your mind is, “What is this disorder and what does it mean in regards to my baby?”

What is hip dysplasia?

This disorder occurs within the development of the hip joint, when the ball at the top of the thigh bone is not stable within the hip socket, the ligaments of the hip become stretched and loosened, resulting in instability within the hip.

Does your baby have a hearing problem?

STORY Hearing Advice with Grant Collins | Principal Audiologist at Clarity Hearing Solutions Early intervention is the key to ensuring the least amount of ongoing issues for children with hearing loss. But hearing loss can develop at any stage, so what can we as parents do? The best thing is to be vigilant for any signs of hearing loss.

The exact cause of this disorder is unknown, however there are a number of factors which can influence this disorder:

At between four and eight-months-old, you should start to see responses in your baby such as turning their head or eyes toward sound from sources they can’t see.

They should be changing expressions at the sound of voices or noises in quiet settings and enjoying rattles or other toys that make noise. Your baby should also be talking to him or herself (although in their own baby babble) and back to you as well.

•• The position of the baby in the womb can cause pressure on the child’s hip joints. Babies in the breech position are more likely to have hip instability when compared to babies in the non-breach position.

If they seem to hear some sounds and not others; or respond to noises that make vibrations but not others, you should keep a closer eye on their hearing development.

•• Genetics can play a role but aren’t a direct cause of the disorder.

From there until about 12-months-old, your baby should turn towards new noises or speech directed at them and start to respond to their name. Their babble will now be more pronounced with varying pitches and they should also be making several different consonant sounds.

What is the cause of hip dysplasia?

•• Girls can be more likely to develop this disorder due to the mother’s laxity hormone being transferred, causing ligaments to relax and become loose.

Treatment If your baby is at high risk, you will be advised, and your baby will need to have an ultrasound done at around six weeks of age. Hip braces are used as part of early management, and your baby may need to wear this device 24 hours a day for a number of weeks or months.

Through early detection and the use of braces the hip joint can develop as normal and your baby may avoid the need for surgery in the future.

If you have any concerns, have your baby’s hearing assessed to ensure they are meeting development milestones.

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WHAT’S ON AUG AUG WEDNESDAY 2 Bring Your Baby Spiderman:Homecoming BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 12.30am / $11.25 / Family Hello Baby - “Early weeks with a newborn Breastfeeding session” Hello Baby HQ, Dolphin Heads www.hellobabymackay.com.au 7.00pm / $30 per person / Parents THURSDAY 3 The Whitsunday Reef Festival Runs until 6 August Airlie Beach www.whitsundayreef festival.com.au Check Website FRIDAY 4 Triple Threat Theatre Company present Jekyll and Hyde – The Musical Runs until 5 August MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 8.00pm / $39 Adult / Youth+

Bring Your Baby - Dunkirk BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $11.25 / Family The Wiz - HSC Musical NewLife Church, 75 Evans Ave www.trybooking.com 7.00pm / $20Adult / Family SATURDAY 5 Forty Winks Carpark Cinema - Titanic Forty Winks carpark 4942 7000 6.30pm / Gold Coin Donation / Family The Wiz - HSC Musical NewLife Church, 75 Evans Ave www.trybooking.com 1.00pm & 7.00pm / $20Adult / Family Weekend Family Flicks Cars 3 Runs until 6 August BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au $6 + booking fee / Family Sugar City Con Mackay Showgrounds 0488 419 703 Check Website SUNDAY 6 2017 Mackay Wedding Showcase MECC www.mackayweddings.com 10.00am / Gold Coin / Family

With Star’s Rob

MONDAY 7

FRIDAY 11

Trivia Night Mondays Magpies Mackay magpiesmackay.com.au 6.30pm / Free / Youth+

Anh Do – The Happiest

Get your Geek On! Trivia Every Monday Souths Leagues Club Mackay Facebook/ SouthsLeaguesClubMackay 6.00pm / Free / Family Bring Your Baby - Dunkirk BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $11.25 / Family TUESDAY 8

Refugee Live!

MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 8.00pm / $59.90 Adult / Youth+ Bring Your Baby - War for the Planet of the Apes BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $11.25 / Family SATURDAY 12 The AC/DC Story MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au

Calmbirth Childbirth Education Weekend Hello Baby HQ, Dolphin Heads www.hellobabymackay.com.au 9.00am / $455 per couple / Parents

7.30pm / $65 Adult / Adult

WEDNESDAY 9

www.eventcinemas.com.au

Weekend Family Flicks Despicable Me 3 Runs until 13 August BCC Cinemas $6 + booking fee / Family

2017 Mackay Careers Expo Souths Leagues Club Mackay Facebook/mackaycareersexpo 11.00am / Cost / Youth+ Bring Your Baby - Dunkirk BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 12.30am / $11.25 / Family Cinebuzz Advance Screening - Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 6.30pm / Family

Introduction to Basic Composting Mackay Community Gardens Facebook/Mackay CommunityGardens 9.00am / Free / Adult Abundance Day (Food Share) Mackay Community Gardens Facebook/Mackay CommunityGardens 10.00am / Free / Family

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 23

WHAT’S ON AUG AUG SUNDAY 13

SATURDAY 19

TUESDAY 22

Basic Home

Sarina Beach Coconut Festival

Food Gardening Mackay Community Gardens Facebook/Mackay CommunityGardens 9.00am / $60 / Adult

www.sarinabeachcocofest.com.au

BMA KidSpace Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au 10.00am / Free / Kids

MONDAY 14 Bring Your Baby -

Check Website Mackay Airport Beach Horse Races Festival Mackay Harbour Beach www.themecc.com.au 11.00am / $39 Adult / Family

War for the Planet of the Apes BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $11.25 / Family

Weekend Family Flicks - Diary

WEDNESDAY 16

www.eventcinemas.com.au

of a wimpy Kid: The Long Haul Runs until 20 August BCC Cinemas $6 + booking fee / Family

Bring Your Baby War for the Planet of the Apes BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 12.30am / $11.25 / Family THURSDAY 15 Mackay Airport Beach Horse Races Festival Runs until 19 August IBIS Hotel, Mackay Airport www.themecc.com.au 6.30pm / $192.70 / Adult FRIDAY 18 Bring Your Baby The Big Sick BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $11.25 / Family

SUNDAY 20 Sensory Movie Day

SUNDAY 27

Bring Your Baby -

North Queensland Babies and Kids Market Mackay Showgrounds Hall nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com 8.30am / $2 Adult / Famliy

The Big Sick BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 12.30am / $11.25 / Family FRIDAY 25 Bring Your Baby Hampstead BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $11.25 / Family NBBOWLS Markets for 2017

BCC Cinemas

(Fathers Day) Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club fc@nbbowls.com.au Free / Family

11.00am / $8 / Family Beach to Gardens Charity Fun Run Queen’s Park beachtogardensfunrun.com.au 6.30am / Cost / Family MONDAY 21 Bring Your Baby - The Big Sick BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $11.25 / Family

24 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Hello Baby - “Early weeks with a newborn Breastfeeding session” Hello Baby HQ, Dolphin Heads www.hellobabymackay.com.au 10.00am / $30 per person / Parents

WEDNESDAY 23

Mackay: Cars 3 www.eventcinemas.com.au

With Star’s EJ

SATURDAY 26 Horrible Harriet MECC www.themecc.com.au 4.00pm / $15 / Family Horrible Harriet MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.00pm / $15 / Family

Pandurunga Farm Hands-On Permaculture Open Day Pandurunga Farm Finch Hatton Facebook/ MackayCommunityGardens 9.00am / Donation / Family MONDAY 28 Bring Your Baby - Hampstead BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $11.25 / Family WEDNESDAY 30 Bring Your Baby - Hampstead BCC Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 12.30am / $11.25 / Family THURSDAY 31 End of Month Draw Souths Leagues Club Mackay Facebook/ SouthsLeaguesClubMackay 7.30pm / Free / Family

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 25

Mini Mag Mackay

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO:

Name

PakMag Colour In June 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870

Address

Win a Pop’lol Pilot Pen Prize Pack. The new Pop’lol range of gel ink pens from Pilot Pen Australia contains pigment water-based ink, which has been formulated to create more intense and vibrant colours. Pop’lol glides on smoothly, is fade resistant and is incredibly vivid. Competition closes 31/08/2017

Age

Parent/Guardian

Postcode Phone Email

Mackay Mini Mag

A MYSTERY PRIZE!

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO:

Name

PakMag Colour In June 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870

Address

Win a mystery prize.

Competition closes 31/08/2017

Age

Parent/Guardian

Postcode Phone Email

Mini Mag Mackay

FIND THE INVISIBLE BUNNY Connect the dots in order and find a cheeky invisible bunny!

Once you’ve found him, colour him in.

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What’s On Guide

WHAT’S ON SEPT SEPT SATURDAY 2 SEPTEMBER

MONDAY 4 SEPTEMBER

TUESDAY 5 SEPTEMBER

TUESDAY 26 SEPTEMBER

“Spring Festival” Afternoon Anglican Church Hall, McGinn St 0417 761 403 Janet 12.30pm/ $5 Adult, Children Free / Family

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Runs until 5 September MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.00pm / $15 / Ages 2 - 8

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt MECC www.themecc.com.au 10.00am & 12.00pm / $15 / Ages 2 - 8

Diary of a Wombat MECC www.themecc.com.au 12.00pm & 6.00pm / $15 / Ages 3 - 9

REGULAR REGULAR MARKETS MARKETS

Sarina Showground Market Date: Last Sunday of the month Time: From 8.00am (Mar to Dec) Location: Bruce Highway Sarina

Showground Markets Date: Every Saturday Time: From 6.30am Location: Milton Street

Seaforth Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: From 8.30am Location: Palm Avenue Seaforth

Troppo Treasure Market Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: From 7.30am to 11.30am Location: Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

Porters Community Markets Date: 3rd Saturday of each month Time: From 8.00am to 1.00pm Location: Porters Mackay City, Gordon Street Details: www.porterscando.com.au/ sales-and-specials/ porters-community-markets

Eungella Markets Date: 1st Sunday of the month (Apr to Dec) Time: From 9.00am Location: Eungella Memorial Hall - North Street Marian Markets Date: 3rd Sunday of the month (Excluding May & Dec) Time: From 8.00am Location: Holy Rosary Church Anzac Avenue

Paxton’s night markets Date: 2nd Friday of the month* Time: From 5.00pm Location: Paxtons Warehouse Details: *Check their Facebook page as dates subject to change www.facebook.com/ PaxtonsNightMarkets

Twilight Markets Time: 6.00pm - 9.00pm Location: Northern Beaches Bowls Club Details: Please visit Northern Beaches Bowls Club facebook page for dates and theme

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market Date: Every Wednesday Time: From 8.00am to 1.00pm Location: Bluewater Quay Details: www.facebook.com/ greaterwhitsundayfarmersmarket

Email your event or market to admin@grandpublishing.com.au to be included. Spaces are limited.

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 29

REGULAR EVENTS MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL: LIBRARIES Baby Bounce Location: Gordon White Library Days: Thursdays (During school term) Time: 10.30am - 11.00am Location: Dudley Denny City Library Days: Mondays (During school term) Time: 11.00am - 11.30am Location: Mirani Library Days: Mondays (During school term) Time: 9.30am - 10.00am Location: Sarina Library Days: Tuesdays (During school term) Time: 9.30am - 10.00am Storytime Storytime is aimed at 2 – 5 year olds and their parents and carers and is held weekly during the school term. This half hour program of stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs enhances language and literacy development in an interactive, fun-filled environment. The sessions encourage a child’s love of books and promotes the library environment as an exciting place for the whole family.

Location: Mirani Library Days: Tuesdays (During school term) Time: 9.30am - 10.00am Location: Walkerston Library Days: Tuesdays (During school term) Time: 10.30am - 11.00am Location: Gordon White Library Days: Wednesdays (During school term) Time: 10.30am - 11.00am Days: Fridays (During school term) Time: 9.30am - 10.00am Location: Sarina Library Days: Wednesdays (During school term) Time: 10.00am - 11.00am Location: Dudley Denny City Library Days: Thursdays (During school term) Time: 10.30am - 11.00am Toddler Time Toddler Time is aimed at little ones

who are walking to 2.5 years and their parents and carers and is held weekly during the school term.

This half hour program of lively nursery rhymes, finger plays, action songs and a story encourages language development and social interaction in an interactive, funfilled environment.

Location: Gordon White Library Days: Mondays Time: 9.30am – 10.00am Location: Mirani Library Days: Wednesday Time: 9.30am – 10.00am Location: Dudley Denny City Library Days: Friday Time: 9.30am – 10.00am MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL: WALKING GROUPS Mackay Dog Walkers & Social Group Days: Saturdays Time: 6.45am for an 7.00am start Meeting point: Departs from Bluewater Quay More Info: Visit the Mackay Dog Walkers Facebook page.

Health & Heart Walking An initiative of the Heart foundation.Days: Saturdays Time: 6.45am Meeting point: Departs from 2 Tennyson St, Mackay More Info: Contact Heather 4957 7997 MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL: BIKE RIDERS Social Rides Meeting point: Metro Café, River Street Days: Saturdays Time: 6.30am Ability levels: Team Caffeine (Beginner - intermediate: 15-20km/h), Team Tour de Latte (Intermediate: 25km/h), Team Slipstream (Intermediateadvanced: 30km/h) and Team Titanium (Advanced: 35km+/h) More Info: Visit Rock N Road Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates.

Lazy Riders Meeting point: Bridges Café, Bluewater Quay Days: Every second Sunday

30 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

-stay for breakfast after the ride!

Time: 7.00am Ability level: Beginner-intermediate More Info: Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates Sizzle'n Sausage Sunday Sesh* Mountain bikers of all abilities are welcome to come out for a ride, held every Sunday and followed by a sausage sizzle from 8.30am.

Meeting point: Rowallan Mountain Bike Park, Glendaragh Rd, Farleigh Time: From 6.00am Ability level: Beginner-advanced More Info: Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates Bicycle Belles A social riding group just for ladies.

Meeting point: Bicycle Connection, 20 Victoria St, Mackay Days: Wednesdays Time: 6.00am Ability level: Beginnerintermediate More Info: Bicycle Belles Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

Mums and Bubs Morning Ride A social riding group for Mums with children who are not yet at school.

Meeting point: Gooseponds car park at the end of Willis Street, North Mackay Days: Wednesdays Time: 10.00am More Info: Bicycle Belles Mackay Facebook page for details and updates.

Mountain Bike (MTB) Night Ride* Lights on bike and helmets are a must!

Days: Wednesdays Meeting point 1: Corry Cycles, 5 Kay Court, North Mackay Time: 6.00pm Meeting point 2: Rowallan Mountain Bike Park, Glendaragh Road, Farleigh Time: 6.30pm Ability level: Intermediate-advanced More Info: Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates, *MAD MTB or MTBA membership is required to use the trails.

Thursday Night Social Ride A weekly evening get together for a ride and catch up.

Meeting point: Metro Café, River Street Days: Thursdays Time: 7.00pm Ability level: Beginnerintermediate More Info: Visit Bicycle Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL: RUNNERS Free LayZee Runners Club Days: Saturdays Time: 5.45am Meeting point: The Metro Market Cafe, River Street, Mackay Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays Time: 5.30am Meeting point: The City Fitness Health Club, Victoria Street.

More Info: www.mackaycitycentre.com.au MACKAY ANIMAL RESCUE SOCIETY Monthly Adoption Day Days: Last Sunday of the month Time: 9.00am to 12.00pm Location: Mackay Pet Superstore, Greenfields Fundraiser Markets Days: Third Sunday of the Month Time: 9.00am - 1.00pm Location: Mackay Marina LET THE CHILDREN PLAY TOYSHOP Free Children’s Book Reading Bring your snack. Coffee/tea will be available Days: Every Wednesday Time: 9.30am to 10.00am Location: 15b Macalister St Cnr Victoria & Macalister Sts Contact: 4944 0180 or email info@playmackay.com.au POSITIVE BIRTH MOVEMENT MEETUPS A support group for parents and parents to be. Discussion theme changes each month.

Days: Last Wednesday or Thursday of every month.

Time: 10.00am and 6.30pm Location: Uneek Industries courtyard - 166 Shakespeare St More Info: The positive birth movement Mackay Meet Ups Facebook page, or call 0458 100 680

Gift Guide

FATHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE Featured products, reviews and prizes. Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!

CapHat™ RRP $22.99, www.caphat.com.au CapHat™ (as seen on Shark Tank) is a unique, award winning, one size fits all attachment that simply fits over your favourite cap or hat to provide ultimate UPF45 sun protection and are suitable for the whole family. They have grip tabs for wind or glare and can be dipped in water for an awesome cooling effect.

Captain Jack Beard Co Beard Oil RRP $34.95, www.captainjackbeardco.com.au Captain Jack Beard Co. is a boutique men's grooming label which specialise in blending high quality artisan beard oils. A unique blend of five different oils and irresistible fragrances Captain Jack's Beard Oil will not only maintain a fresh and healthy beard but also protect and nourish the skin underneath. Captain Jack Beard Oil can also be used as a facial oil if you don't support a full beard or a pre shaving oil to soften the skin and hair. With new fragrances and matching balms coming soon, Captain Jack will make the perfect gift this Father’s Day!

Muck Boots Chore Classic Mid Boot RRP $129.95, www.muckboots.com.au The Original Muck Boot Company is heralded as one of the most innovative and comfortable boot brands taking the world by storm. The range caters for every Man, merging comfort, style and high performance with every boot delivering 100% waterproof protection.

No matter the purpose, all footwear is designed to tackle tough conditions in work, agriculture, gardening, construction and all trade professions making them the perfect Fathers Day gift.

The Chore Classic Boot provides a comfortable style of boot leading the Men’s range as the best seller. With 5mm Neoprene comfort, a durable lightweight rubber outsole and a steel shank for additional arch support, this boot is built to handle the toughest of jobs.

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Gift Guide

Featured products, reviews and prizes.

Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!

Brenniston’s Motor Vehicle First Aid Kit RRP $35.48, www.brenniston.com.au Brenniston’s Motor Vehicle First Aid Kit will ensure Dad’s ready for anything. Purpose-built for roadside emergencies like bleeds, burns and post-accident shock, this kit will fit safely under his car seat or glove box.

Designed and produced in Australia for quality and reliability, he’ll never leave home without it.

Milkman Grooming Co Spring Rider After Shave Serum RRP $40.00, www.milkmanaustralia.com Milkman Grooming Co's new “Spring Rider” After Shave Serum combines a moisturiser with an alcohol-free after shave. With ingredients like witch hazel, aloe vera and allantoin, it contains some of the most sought-after post shave ingredients but is also packed with the kind of high-end moisturisers and anti-oxidants you would usually expect to see in a much more expensive day cream including hyaluronic acid, kakadu plum extract, beta glucan plus vitamins E and B5.

At only RRP $40.00 it makes the perfect gift for Father’s Day. www.milkmanaustralia.com. Milkman Grooming Co products are also at Shaver Shop.@milkmanaustralia #milkmanaustralia #springrider @shavershopau #shavershop

Prickly Pete Underwear Trunks by Funky Trunks RRP $19.95, www.funkytrunks.com Famous for its bold, bright prints, Funky Trunks has added an exciting new design to its underwear collection; Prickly Pete.

With a self-lined pouch for greater support, a smooth waist and generous stretch around the leg, these trunks are so comfortable; you’ll forget you’re wearing them! And considering they are the first item you slip into in the morning and the last you take off at night; that has to be a good thing.

34 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Buckle 1922 Father's Day gift pack RRP $97.00, www.shopbuckle.com.au Spoil Dad this Father’s Day with Buckle 1922’s collection of men’s fashion accessories. Buckle has a range of cufflinks, lapel pins and bow ties that make the perfect affordable gift for Dad. Enter now for your chance to win a Buckle 1922 Father’s Day gift pack valued at $97.00 Each prize pack includes: Buckle Bow Tie – RRP $39.00, Buckle Lapel Pin – RRP $29.00 and Buckle Cufflinks – RRP $29.00

Challenges For Children

Physical disabilities in children STORY Nicole Brown - Occupational Therapist

Children that have physical disabilities often have difficulties participating in everyday activities such as walking, playing, dressing themselves, and going to school. A physical disability can be any condition that impacts on a person’s normal body movement and control.

What are common types of physical disabilities?

Common physical disabilities include cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy and spinal or acquired brain injuries.

Cerebral palsy is a condition that affects movement and posture. It is a permanent life-long condition, but generally does not worsen over time. It is due to damage to the developing brain either during pregnancy or shortly after birth. There are different types of cerebral palsy including

boys. Muscular dystrophy is a progressive condition which means it gets worse over time, and there is no cure. Most children who have Duchene Muscular Dystrophy are in wheelchairs by the time they reach adolescence.

People with spinal or acquired brain injuries can have difficulties with moving certain body parts depending on the location of the injury.

Children with physical disabilities may present with other conditions including hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain), scoliosis (curvatures of spine) and bone and joint deformities (due to differences in growth).

How do physical disabilities occur?

Physical disabilities can be caused by a number of different factors including;

•• spastic quadriplegia- affects movement in both arms and both legs

•• inherited or genetic conditions such as muscular dystrophy,

•• diplegia- affects movement in both legs

•• congenital (present from birth) such as spina bifida or some types of cerebral palsy,

•• hemiplegia- affects movement on one side of the body •• ataxia- affects balance and coordination Spina bifida occurs during pregnancy when the spinal cord does not fully close. Children with spina bifida may have paralysis or weakness and/or sensory loss. They also can have difficulties with bowel and bladder control.

Muscular dystrophy occurs when muscles that control movement start to weaken. There are different types of muscular dystrophy however the most common is Duchene Muscular Dystrophy, which occurs mainly in

•• serious illness or injury that affects the brain including meningitis, spinal cord injury or acquired brain injury (stroke, near drowning, trauma to head).

The Role of Allied Health Professionals To assist children with physical disabilities in achieving independence and developing functional skills.

In addition to medical professionals, allied health professionals form part of the healthcare team.

Physiotherapy is a vital profession in helping children with physical disabilities achieve gross motor skills and movement. Physiotherapists engage a wide range of

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Challenges For Children

interventions to improve a child’s strength, balance and movement including walking, being able to transfer (lie to sit, sit to stand) and of course running, jumping, hopping and skipping. Physiotherapists work with the child and their family to incorporate exercises to strengthen muscles and train correct movements in the developing child to prevent deformity and improve function. Physiotherapists also train the caregivers in how to safely lift and position the child to prevent caregiver injuries.

Occupational therapists assist children with physical disabilities to participate in everyday activities such as feeding, dressing, toileting, playing and school activities such as drawing and writing. Occupational therapists use a variety of play-based activities to practice these skills and provide recommendations on changing the activity to make it easier, or provide equipment to make the activity achievable. For example, occupational therapists will trial equipment for seating, feeding and hygiene activities that assist the child to be supported, safe and able to participate in the activity if possible.

Occupational therapists will work on the child’s ability to engage in age appropriate play including early object play (banging, casting and posting toys) to construction play (building blocks and Lego) and even imaginative play.

Speech pathologists work with children who have physical disabilities to help them communicate and address feeding and drinking difficulties.

Communication is such an important skill in everyday life and is at times affected by physical disabilities.

Speech pathologists also assess and prescribe the use of alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) systems when a child has complex communication needs (for example, a speech generating device, or a communication app for a tablet device).

Other health professionals that work with children with physical impairments include; •• Orthotists who fabricate foot orthoses to help with walking and prevent deformities of the feet.

•• Psychologists who assist with supporting a child’s emotional health, addressing complex behavioural problems and supporting thinking and learning.

•• Audiologists who assess hearing difficulties.

•• Ophthalmologist who assess vision difficulties.

38 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Equipment that Children with Physical Disabilities May Need Depending on the child’s age and level of disability there are various pieces of equipment that may assist the child to participate in daily activities.

These include standing frames to promote muscle strength and postural control, walkers to develop gait and support mobility, and wheelchairs to provide mobility for those who are unable to walk. Seating systems are often required to maintain good posture for attending to everyday activities such as eating, doing schoolwork or playing and also assist with preventing deformities due to muscle weakness. Showering and toileting equipment is required at times to keep the child and caregiver safe during these daily tasks, in addition to promoting the child’s independence within these personal activities.

Other equipment such as modified play equipment and communication devices are also available to enhance a child’s ability to engage in everyday life.

Going to school with a physical disability Going to school can host a number of challenges for children with physical disabilities. Legislation such as the Disability Discrimination Act (1992) and Disability Standards for Education (2005) provide schools with guidelines on how to support students with disabilities in attending and achieving at school. Schools in Australia have specialist support from teachers and allied health professionals to assist with meeting the educational needs of the individual. There are often specialist teachers and facilities available to assist children.

Examples of what support schools are required to provide include adjustments to curriculum, assessment modifications, assistive technology such as software to support learning (e.g. voice to text, predictive text) and accessible buildings and facilities.

Children with physical disabilities have difficulties with moving or controlling their body. However, with the support, assistance and acceptance from the wider community these children are able to engage in everyday activities to learn, develop and achieve!

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1. Thomas - Marian Park 2. Cooper - Build a Bear Workshop at Caneland 3. Imogen - Build a Bear Workshop at Caneland 4. Lilly - Unicorn Day at K&Co 5. Anna - Marian Park 6. Abbi and Fletch - Unicorn Day at K&Co 7. Felicity - Unicorn Day at K&Co 8. Owen - Build a Bear Workshop at Caneland

40 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

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Photography thanks to: Elizabeth Randles Photography, 0413 184 336 Facebook: Elizabeth Randles Photography

9. Stella - Unicorn Day at K&Co 10. Parker and Bennett - Build a Bear Workshop at Caneland 11. Carter and Lillian - Unicorn Day at K&Co 12. Lily - Unicorn Day at K&Co 13. Cooper - Build a Bear Workshop at Caneland 14. Maree and Elizabeth - Unicorn Day at K&Co 15. Lillie, Audrey and Ivy - Unicorn Day at K&Co

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Craft

SENSATIONAL SENSORY FUN

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Imagery and inspiration thanks to: 1. www.icanteachmychild.com 2. www.momdot.com 3. www.seevanessacraft.com

42 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Spaghetti-Ville What you’ll need: •• Cooked cold spaghetti •• A large plastic container •• Toys to complete your town and toy plastic food Creating the perfect storm: 1. Set up your town in a large plastic container.

2. Let your little one’s imagination go wild as they ‘rain’ the spaghetti down onto the town. Your child will love watching the town disappear in the cold, slippery spaghetti.

3. When the town is drenched in spaghetti, if you want to take it one step further; ‘hail’ down toy food on your Spaghetti-Ville.

4. This activity can be a little messy; we suggest washing the toys used, in warm soapy water to remove any spaghetti residue.

Rainbow Ball Slime Note: Rainbow Ball Slime is not edible.

You will need: •• A bowl •• 2 cups of craft glue •• 1 cup of shaving cream •• ¼ cup of liquid starch •• Rainbow sprinkles Creating rainbows: 1. Combine craft glue and shaving cream in a bowl. Add the liquid starch and mix until the mixture becomes fluffy (Note: If your mixture seems too sticky, add in more liquid starch) 2. Empty mixture onto a smooth surface and knead until combined.

Let the mixture sit for 10 seconds before folding it in half, repeat this step until the mixture forms into a slime texture.

3. Lay the slime out and add rainbow sprinkles onto the surface.

4. Let the rainbow-making begin by stretching and folding the slime to create an explosion of rainbow streaks.

Glitter Galore Bottles What you’ll need: •• Empty plastic bottle •• Glitter glue (in your chosen colour) •• Hot water (from tap, not boiling) •• Glitter (we suggest using jumbo for better coverage) •• Hot glue gun •• Funnel How to: 1. Remove the label from the plastic bottle.

2. Pour the entire bottle of glitter glue into the bottle. Using a funnel, add hot water into the bottle, stopping 5cm below the top. Add 3 tablespoons of glitter into the bottle.

3. Hot glue the lid on the bottle (ensure the seal is secure).

Celebrate

TAKE YOUR NEXT PARTY TO THE SKIES Time flies when you’re having fun, and before you know it, your little one’s birthday makes a landing. So why not throw them a party that will really take off?

•• Cotton balls

Suitcase Rush Game

•• Craft glue

You’ll need:

Boarding Passes

Method:

•• String

•• Holiday items (clothes etc) Method:

1. Using a pencil, draw an outline of a cloud onto the white cardboard.

Carefully, cut out the cloud.

Invite your guests with their very own boarding pass invitation, make sure to include the ‘take off’ time (party start time) as well as their destination (party address).

1. Have the party separated into two teams and form two lines.

Set two suitcases with clothes outside of the case running distance in front of each team.

2. Repeat steps one and two to create your desired number of clouds.

Fluffy cloud display

2. Have each team send a player to pack the case and bring it back to the start of the line to then unpack.

3. Add a layer of glue onto one side of the cloud cut out and stick on cotton balls, making sure to fill the entire surface with no gaps.

By following the steps below, you can create a magical array of clouds in your very own living room.

3. The next player must re-pack the suitcase and run to the other end, to repeat the cycle. The first team to make it back to the starting person wins!

4. When dried completely, attach each cloud with tape to a piece of string, and hang in desired spot.

You’ll Need: •• White cardboard

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•• Tape

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1. Retro Metal Bi Plane - RRP $39.95 - www.earthtoys.net 2. Unicorn Skirt - RRP $34.95 - www.hellomisspoppyseed.com 3. Aeroplane & Cloud Biscuits www.babka.pt 4. Hot Air Balloon Cutter - www.cookiecutterkdom.com 5. Party Setting - www.babyprepping.com 6. Cloud Cupcakes www.allthingscupcake.com 7. Lunch Punch® Favourites Transit Two Pack - RRP $14.95 - www.hellomisspoppyseed.com 8. Black Birds Bagbini - RRP $34.95 www.hellomisspoppyseed.com 9. Playforever Mimmo Plane - RRP $110.00 - www.earthtoys.net 10. Captain’s Cake - www.catchmyparty.com

44 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

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11. Edible Icing Bits - www.icingbits.com 12. Hot Air Balloon Rainbow RRP $75.00 - www.earthtoys.net 13. Sunshine Pancake www.cupcakediariesblog.com 14. Down to thw Woods Felt Cloud Garland - RRP $41.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au

Business

WHAT’S NEWS IN BUSINESS Saving Money For Your Family’s Future

Family Law: Is Romance Dead?

STORY Rose Foster

Legally, there is no romance in the giving of an engagement ring.

The Australian courts likened the giving of a ring to entering into a contract which creates a commercial bargain of sorts. The giving of the ring being the deposit on a contract and the marriage and relationship being the fulfilment of that contract. The courts have held that the contract is broken:

Whether you’ve just had a baby or your family is well-established, planning for your family’s future is something we should all be thinking about. And it’s more than just saving money for that rainy day.

As parents, we all know how important it is to stick to a budget on a weekly and monthly basis and sometimes, that’s as far into the future as we look. And, if you’re anything like me, the words ‘Financial Planner’ conjure up feelings of dread, as you think that this service is something that is for the wealthy business types. But, that’s a totally wrong way to think about it.

Financial Planners help you prepare for your family’s future. You don’t have to have millions of dollars; it’s a financial planner’s job to work with what you have to advise you of the best ways to use your money wisely.

You can check out financial planners in your area by visiting www.australianfinancialplanners.com.au.

So why not book a consultation today and find out why it’s not as scary as you may think?

STORY Solicitor Bonnie-Brooke Stevenson, Marino Lawyers

a. if the person receiving a ring in contemplation of marriage refuses to fulfil the conditions of the gift, they must return the ring; b. if one person refuses to carry out their promise of commitment without justification, they cannot then demand the return of the ring; c. if the engagement is ended by mutual consent, then in the absence of any agreement to the contrary, the engagement ring and similar gifts must be returned by each party to the other.

If there is a ‘legal justification’ for a partner’s refusal to carry out their promise of marriage (such as violence or an affair) then the partner breaking off the relationship may not have to return the ring.

Whilst there is no specific law in relation to the return or otherwise of engagement rings, the most common way in which a ring is dealt with is as property under the Family Law Act 1975 (as amended).

An engagement ring will become part of the property settlement and the value of the ring will form part of the party’s property pool. Depending on how the settlement pans out, you may be able to keep the ring, even if your ex-partner demands that you return it. It is only cost effective for parties to dispute the value of items of significant value such as real property, share portfolios, superannuation or investments and any item of significant value.

If your engagement ring was purchased for a modest sum of say $3,000, it is likely the real second-hand value is much less, usually around one tenth of the purchase price, and it is unlikely that the parties nor the court would include the ring in the property pool as a separate item. It may simply form part of the parties 'personal effects' as the legal fees would amount to more than the value of the ring itself if the pair continues to quarrel over it. If you have been given a 35-carat diamond ring, however it is very likely that the argument over such a beautiful item of jewellery will be far more than sentimental.

www.pakmag.com.au | August 2017 47

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SENSORY GARDENS With the Block’s Caro and Kingi Have your little one smelling, tasting, seeing, hearing and feeling their way through the back yard, as they learn and explore with their senses. Sensory gardens are perfect for both small children and children with special needs to explore their environment.

Sound: Try using crunchy gravel, wind chimes, and moving water within your garden, as they bring a variety of different sounds. Consider growing nectar plants to introduce birds in your garden as they produce the wonderful sound of nature.

When planning a sensory garden for your little one, it’s important to think about a suitable layout that your child can make the most of. We suggest having planters at a reachable height for your child, as well as incorporating elements such as benches and paths for them to follow and enjoy the garden in comfort.

Why not create your very own garden instrument, from old cake tins to pots and pans? Your child will love using these everyday utensils as they explore the different sounds they produce.

Sight: Create walkways that wind through you garden to invite visitors to slow down and explore the garden at leisure. Be creative with planter boxes, use things like old shoes or tins to create an interesting eyecatching display.

Touch: From furry mosses to velvety leaves, exploring the different textures nature has to offer is one sure-fire way bring an element of touch into the garden. We suggest growing plants that are hardy and that can handle being touched, and staying away from spikey or prickly plants like rose thorns or cacti as they can be dangerous to your little one.

Taste: Let your child discover the different tastes nature has to offer, from rosemary to strawberries, growing your own edible garden can be a fun learning experience for both you and your child. However, we suggest sectioning off this ‘taste’ area so your little one knows what is to taste and what is for their other senses.

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Smell: It’s important to separate your garden into different flower scents, to avoid an overload in one place. We suggest including flowers like, gardenias and lilacs which produce a beautiful fragrance.

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1. Green Toys Recycled Plastic Sand Play Set - RRP $39.95 www.earthtoys.net 2. DIY Tin Can Chimes - www.cheapcrafting.com 3. DIY Busy Board - Wee Little Nomads 4. DIY Reclaimed Wooden Blocks - www.filthwizardry.com 5. DIY Garden Chimes www.how-do-it.com 6. Sage and Clare Laurel Fringe Cushion RRP $155.00 / Hello Lovely Tassel and Pom Pom Cushion - RRP $65.00 / Hello Lovely Tommy Bahama Outdoor Cushion - RRP $70.00 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 7. Byron Bay Hanging Chair 70’s Love Seat - RRP $900.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 8. DIY Outdoor Mutsic Station - www.funathomewithkids.com 9. Outdoor Sandbox and Canopy - RRP $399.00 - www.earthtoys.net 10. Cuppi Beach Toy - RRP $12.00 - www.earthtoys.net 11. Zakkia Round Natural Clay Pot - RRP $25.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 12. DIY Outdoor Music Station - www.etsy.com/shop/MamaFabun

DADDY Daddy Diary DIARY So, we’re more than half way through the year and it’s time for your mid-year resolutions – yes, that’s a thing!

I always feel that it gets to this point of the year and we’re all rubbing our eyes, in shock that it’s closer to next Christmas than the last. And, I often also then realise that I haven’t really kept up my New Year’s Resolution... or even started it. So, I like to give myself another chance, and you should to.

If you listen to me in the mornings or follow me on social media, you’ll know that I’m a big advocate of helping, supporting and volunteering. I have many causes close to my heart that I’ll do crazy things to raise money for (like sliding in a pool filled with ice), I donate plasma and I promote a number of deserving fundraisers.

Now, I’m not telling you all this for a pat on the back, I’m hoping to inspire all of you to make a mid-year resolution to improve someone else’s life.

With Star 101.9’s Rob Kidd

Why not choose to volunteer at your local community organisation, give blood, put your body through a crazy challenge for charity or offer your skills for free? Trust me, after the blood, sweat and tears, it’s always worth it to see the impact that such a small act can make in the lives of those less fortunate.

And, don’t get me wrong, as much as I love to know that you’re helping others, I also (secretly!) get a little sense of satisfaction when I see pictures of you all going through the (sometimes ridiculous) things you do to complete your challenge or charity work. And that’s not because I’m an awful person (although some would debate that!), it’s because I’ve been there too and I know the feeling!

So, that said, I would love for you to post pictures of you doing your thing on the PakMag Mackay Facebook page – don’t forget to tag me so I see them!

Until next month, have fun and find your charitable side.

Rob Kidd Star 101.9 Mackay and the Whitsundays

50 August 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au