PakMag Mackay - June 2016 Issue 44

ISSUE: JUNE 2016

44

MACKAY

Reading, Writing

& THE WORLD OF TABLETS SWITCHING ON TO SCIENCE

Celebrate : UNDER THE SEA PARTY

No Yell PARENTING

SCIENCE ACTIVITIES

Winter Holidays

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www.pakmag.com.au MAY 2016

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CONTENTS

P.20

HELLO

ISSUE NO. 43 JUNE 2016

WIN

06 Entertainment: Check This Out 08 Feature: No Yell Parenting,

Hello and welcome to our June edition of PakMag. It’s been a busy month over at PakMag and we are so excited to be welcoming our education series again. Our June edition is packed with parenting tips and tricks including a feature on no yell parenting and tips on hosting an adorable under the sea theme party. The Block’s Caro and Kingi share their secrets on decluttering and we have plenty of educational advice on science, reading, writing and the world of tablets.

Can you believe the school holidays are back again at the end of this month?! Find out what’s happening in Mackay with our What’s On and School Holiday guides and keep the kids happily entertained with our Mini Mag. We have plenty of prizes to give away including tickets to our Ice Age: Collision Course movie preview. Check out www.pakmag.com.au for more information and keep an eye on our Facebook page.

It’s Possible

11 Education: Reading, Writing And The

World Of Tablets

15 Letting Kids Be Kids: Mackay

Christian College

17 Education: Switching On

To Science

19 Fertility Ability 20 Bump And Bub 23 What’s On Guide

I hope you have a wonderful June with your family, and don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag.

25 Mini Mag

Bree x

32 Craft: Learn And Grow With

Science Fun!

34 Celebrate: Under The Sea 37 School Holiday Guide

BREE JAMES / PAKMAG PUBLISHER

Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2015

42 Winter Fashion With Gerlinda 45 What’s News In Business 46 Home with Caro & Kingi: Decluttering 48 Snapped Mackay

PAKMAG HEAD OFFICE P 4053 3331 E admin@pakmag.com.au PO BOX 7433 Cairns QLD 4870 FB www.facebook.com/pakmagmackay T #pakmag ON THE COVER Zarlee Goodworth and Indie Goodworth PHOTOGRAPHY Tada Photography WEB www.tadaphotography.com.au

50 Daddy Diary

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

Rad Sales Rep Jacqui Witty Writer Jenna

www.pakmag.com.au MAY 2016

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pakmag ENTERTAINMENT

CHECK THIS OUT

11th June

The 52-Storey Treehouse

19th June

WHEN 11 June 2016, 11.30am to 2pm

Ice Age: COLLISION COURSE Movie Preview – Win Tickets!

WHERE MECC Auditorium

WHEN 19 June 2016

MORE INFO www.mackayecc.com.au

WHEN Keep an eye on the PakMag Facebook page for your chance to WIN tickets and for more details.

Get your tickets for this awardwinning production based on the bestselling books, The 13-Storey Treehouse and The 26-Storey Treehouse by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton.

WIN

21 23 st -

rd June

Mackay Regional Show

25

th June

Souths Family Carnival Day

WHEN 21 to 23 June 2016 WHERE Mackay Showgrounds MORE INFO www.mackayshow.com.au The Mackay Regional Show is one of the premier events

WHEN 25 June 2016, 2pm to 6pm with movie starting at 6pm

in regional Central Queensland and a great day out for

WHERE Souths Leagues Club

with interesting displays and exhibits, along with the

MORE INFO 4957 2166 www.facebook.com/SouthsLeaguesClub Come one, come all to Souths Family carnival day. Enjoy an afternoon of fantastic fun including visits from a magician, balloon artist, face painter and Old Macdonalds farm.

Bounce at the jumping castle, test out the fairy floss and get into the carnival spirit with a movie premiering at 6pm.

families. Enjoy three days of non-stop entertainment, ever popular Sideshow Alley. A range of top quality

Entertainment is scheduled for the Ring, including the night time Fireworks Spectacular.

Get 10 tokens for $5 with 50 percent of the money raised to be donated to Mackay Hospital Foundation.

21

st July

Coming Up at the MECC: The Peasant Prince WHEN 21 July 6pm and 22 July 10am and 12pm WHERE MECC Auditorium MORE INFO www.mackayecc.com.au Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography Mao’s Last Dancer was first published as a children’s picture book, The Peasant Prince.

Li, a 10-year old peasant boy, is plucked from his village in rural China and sent to a ballet academy in the big city. He leaves everything and everyone he knows, including his beloved parents. Over years of gruelling training and determination, this boy transforms from an impoverished peasant to a giant of the international dance scene. Li’s courage, resilience and unwavering hope for a better life make The Peasant Prince a story to ignite our own aspirations to be the best person we can be.

Audiences will be captivated by this very personal story, truly a 20th century fairy tale. Definitely not to be missed!

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8th - 10th July

V8 Supercars Castrol EDGE Townsville 400 WHEN 8 to 10 July 2016

25th + 26th June Porters and The Family Table Kids Cooking Class

WHERE Townsville Street Circuit

WHEN 25 June and 26 June, 2 July and 3 July

MORE INFO www.v8supercars.com.au

WHERE Porters Mackay City Store

North Queensland’s loudest weekend is coming for the V8 Supercars Castrol EDGE Townsville 400, 8 – 10 July 2016.

MORE INFO www.porterscando.com.au

A weekend full of intense V8 Supercars racing and exciting entertainment. Watch the Stadium Super Trucks as they fly through the air and then rock under the SuperTop on Saturday night with ICEHOUSE and Choirboys.

Stadium Super Trucks will ramp up the ontrack action, making their racing debut in North Queensland.

Rock under the SuperTop with Aussie rock legends ICEHOUSE and special guest Choirboys live on Saturday night.

Great support categories will roll in to the Townsville, including V8 Supercars Dunlop Series, V8 Utes and Australian GTs. There is something for the whole family with the on and off track action, the V8 Supercars Paddock, Disney Zone and more.

Tickets from www.ticketek.com.au. Kids under 12 go free trackside with a paying adult.

M

PRIZE PA

WIN

CK!

We also have three minor prize packages (valued at $690 each) including a Family (2A2K) Trackside Pass of the Castrol EDGE Townsville 400 and a $50 Disney merchandise pack. Enter at www.pakmag.com.au

Porters also have plenty of free school holiday fun for the kids each weekend of the school holidays. Like them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Porterscando) to keep up to date.

23

rd June -

Icetastic Skate Rink at Caneland Central

10

th July

WHEN Thursday 23 June to Sunday 10 July, 9.ooam to 6.00pm daily (8.30pm on Thursdays and Saturdays) WHERE Caneland Central Mackay MORE INFO www.canelandcentral.com.au

AJ

OR

We have four V8 Supercars prize packs to give away to our PakMag readers. Valued at $2640, our major prize giveaway includes a Family (2A2K) Trackside Pass to the Castrol EDGE Townsville 400 and a meet and greet for the family with Mark ‘Frosty’ Winterbottom.

Porters will be hosting The Family Table Kids Cooking Classes these school holidays. Bookings are essential and classes are $12 per child. Check out www.porterscando. com.au for more information and class times.

Icetastic is back these school holidays. Stay cool and have fun with 1 hour sessions for $15 per person.

Call 0412 344 941 to make a booking.

28th + 29th June Golidlocks and the Three Bears Puppet Shows

WHEN Tuesday 28 June, 10.00am/ Wednesday 29 June 2.00pm/ Monday 4 July 10.00am WHERE 15b Macalister St (Cnr Victoria St) – Let the Children Play Toyshop MORE INFO 4944 0180, info@playmackay.com.au, www.playmackay.com.au Let the Children Play are holding three puppet shows in the school holidays. Enjoy “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” with Rosalyn from Wild Puppets. Bookings are essential and there is a gold coin donation.

www.pakmag.com.au MAY 2016

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No Yell Parenting

IT’S POSSIBLE

STORY Jenna Gallina

I will be the first to admit that when it comes to staying in control of my household, especially my children, I have really good days and really really bad days. Lately it feels like there has been more bad days than good ones and most of the time I go to bed feeling like, once again, I have failed at being a mum.

Yes, I yell at my kids. Yes, I lose control.

And yes, I feel guilty after the fact.

No Yell Parenting sounds like a kooky childrearing theory but I have heard good things about it.

Screaming at my children to do what they

Dr. Laura Markham, author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids and expert in No Yell Parenting explains, “The truth is that yelling scares kids. It makes them harden their hearts to us. And when we yell, kids go into fight, flight or freeze mode, so they stop learning whatever we are trying to teach.”

are told, resorting to taking away toys and then hearing, “I hate you,” is not the way I want any

day to end, but this is often the case. And it has to stop.

Most parents know they should stop yelling, but is there

Furthermore, while yelling can work, it trains our kids to not listen to us until we raise our voices. And it also trains them to yell back at us when they really want something.

another way to get your children’s attention?

DR. MARKHAM HAS DEVELOPED A

10 STEP PLAN TO IMPLEMENT A NO YELL PARENTING ROUTINE IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD:

1

LEARN TO CONTROL YOUR OWN EMOTIONS

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Children model their behaviour from yours and thus all parents need to focus on keeping control of their own emotions before they can expect their children to be able to do the same.

“Whether or not they show it, our anger pushes kids of all ages away from us. Yelling at them practically guarantees that they’ll have an “attitude” by the time they’re ten, and that yelling fights will be the norm during their teen years,” Dr. Markham says.

2

USE A RESPECTFUL VOICE The biggest problem in our household is respect, or lack thereof. I know there is love, but often poor behaviour overtakes this love and yelling is one of the most common forms of disrespect (on my end and on theirs).

Make a plan to use respectful voices, as a team. And when someone in the household does fall off the horse, then support them as they get back on.

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CUT THE KIDS A BIT OF SLACK Kids will be kids. They are immature balls of emotions and they need to push the limits to see what’s solid.

“Children need to experiment with power so they can learn to use it responsibly. Their prefrontal cortex isn’t fully developed, so their emotions often take over, which means they can’t think straight when they’re upset.”

4

LET IT GO Let go of the anger and frustrations that build up during the day.

“Instead, stop, take responsibility for your own mood, give yourself what you need to feel better, and shift yourself to a happier place,” Dr. Markham suggests.

FEATURE

5

OFFER EMPATHY WHEN YOUR CHILD

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EXPRESSES ANY EMOTION.

• “Remember, they are your children. And they are simply acting the way that you act.”

Talking about how they feel and using other techniques (like deep breathing) can help children regulate these emotions.

• “You’re doing everything right, even though this moment feels wrong.”

SEE THINGS FROM YOUR

• “The kids are happy and healthy – that’s what matters most.”

CHILDREN’S PERSPECTIVES Children need to feel like you are on their side and that you understand them. Before you can correct your child’s behaviour, you need to connect with him.

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“Feeling understood also keeps kids from going off the deep end” Dr. Markham adds.

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FIND YOUR MANTRA Once you are in this calmer place, find a mantra, or a quote, that helps you stay in control and keep the bigger picture in mind. Dr. Markham suggests, “Choose Love,” or “I don’t have to win here,” but here are a few that I use:

Expressing our emotions is a normal and healthy thing.

Getting angry and frustrated is too. But there are ways to address these emotions without resorting to raising our voices.

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pakmag

FOCUS ON STAYING CALM AND MOVING ON It’s natural to want to teach your child the right way to act but after a big blow out, this is not the right time.

Don’t do a thing.

“Until your child feels understood and reconnected, he can’t hear your guidance. There is always time to talk later, once you and your child have both calmed down and you’re focused on the warmth between you, instead of from your anger.”

Even though it feels natural to address the problem right away (and yell at your child), step away for a moment.

Use this time to connect – offer a cuddle, make them giggle and get everyone back on track and in a happy mindset.

WHEN YOU GET ANGRY, STOP

TAKE A TIME OUT Rather than sending your child to his room, send yourself. Go to the bathroom – splash some water on your face. Take a few deep breaths and try to regulate your anger. Under the anger is fear, sadness and disappointment and it is okay to let these feelings surface.

“Once you let yourself feel what’s under the angerwithout taking action-- the anger will just melt away.”

After writing this, I decided to practice what I preach and give the above tips a try. So far, I can’t say that we have limited yelling completely from our household but I will say that we are taking baby steps to get there. All of us are more in control of our emotions and, although the anger is still there, the disrespect is slowly abating. And the love is showing through so much more.

In fact, for the first time in months, it finally feels like we are having more good days than bad.

PEACEFUL PARENT, HAPPY KIDS Author: Dr. Laura Markham Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How To Stop Yelling and Start Connecting, has rapidly become an underground favourite for parents around the globe.

Find out more and where to get your copy at: www.ahaparenting.com/peaceful-parent-happy-kids

www.pakmag.com.au MAY 2016

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EDUCATION

pakmag

Reading, Writing

AND THE

World of Tablets STORY Jenna Gallina

As a writer I am more than passionate about the importance of reading and writing in all aspects of life, especially for young children. As much as I promote, encourage and practice reading and writing in my home (and every day at work), I hate to admit that I have a child who cannot read or write.

Every day he falls further and further behind his peers in these two critical subjects. It breaks my heart.

The underlying reason why he is falling behind in reading and writing is yet to be determined. It could be due to a learning difficulty or it could be because I am not doing enough with him at home. It could be because he simply hasn’t developed this part of his brain yet or it could be because he really doesn’t want to learn.

Or it could be because he is so obsessed with his iPad that he prefers to play games than to actually pick up a book and attempt to read.

The Rise of the iPad School curriculum has changed a lot since we were growing up. In addition to reading, writing and maths, children are also learning how to navigate through the often complex and fascinating world of technology. Every classroom has an iPad (or several) and students are encouraged to learn how to use these devices.

For many mums and dads, encouraging their children to use a tablet is the easy bit. Encouraging them to put the tablet down, however, can pose quite the challenge.

While there is no denying the benefit of learning how to read books and how to write using a pen and paper, iPads can actually help develop these skills (if you can convince your kids to close the Minecraft app).

We’ve compiled a list of some of the most educational and engaging apps for kids of all ages and abilities to help develop these essential reading and writing skills.

For Writing and Comprehension

For Vocabulary and Spelling

BOOK CREATOR

Cost: Free

Cost: Free Grade Level: 3rd, 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes

Available: The App Store & iTunes

MINIMOD READING FOR DETAILS LITE Cost: $5.99 Grade Level: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes

BLUSTER! Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th

SCENE SPEAK Cost: $14.99

Grade Level: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th

Available: The App Store & iTunes

WRITE ABOUT THIS

THE SIGHT WORD ADVENTURE

Cost: $5.99 Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes

Cost: $1.99

WRITING WIZARD Cost: $7.99 Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st Available: The App Store & iTunes

Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd Available: The App Store & iTunes

ROCKET SPELLER Cost: Free - $1.49

Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd

Available: The App Store & iTunes

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pakmag EDUCATION

ABC POCKETPHONICS

For Children with Dyslexia and other Learning Disabilities

Cost: $10.99

ARTICULATION STATION

Available: The App Store & iTunes

Cost: Free Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd Available: The App Store & iTunes

For Phonics and Print Awareness Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st

ALPHA WRITER Cost: $7.99

Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st

Available: The App Store & iTunes

DYSLEXIA TOOLBOX Cost: $1.49 Grade Level: 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes

ELKONIN BOXES

SPEAK IT! TEXT TO SPEECH

Cost: $1.49

Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd

Cost: $2.99 Grade Level: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and above Available: The App Store & iTunes

POCKETPHONICS STORIES

WORD WIZARD: TALKING MOVABLE ALPHABET AND SPELLING TEST FOR KIDS

Available: The App Store & iTunes

Cost: $26.99

Grade Level: Pre-K, K, 1st, 2nd

Available: The App Store & iTunes

Cost: $7.99 Grade Level: K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th Available: The App Store & iTunes

Warming Up to Reading and Writing Life is busy. And hectic. And exhausting. Often it seems easier just to let the kids play with the tablet rather than spend time reading to them, reciting their spelling words, helping them practice cursive writing or asking questions to assist with comprehension.

But it is critical that we do, not just when our children are learning to read, but at every age. A recent study reveals that 58 percent of two to three year olds were read to six to seven days a week while only 11 percent of eight and nine year olds were read to that often.

So here are some tips to up the reading and writing ante in your household: Make it part of the routine – Aim to have the same amount of time spent on the iPad as is spent reading and writing.

For example, if the kids get a half hour of iPad play after school, balance that with a half hour of ‘quiet time’ to focus on educational activities such as reading, writing, spelling, drawing, etc.

Use a reward system for everyone – After a week of reciting spelling words, both you and your kids need a break. So reward yourself with a family outing or a treat before getting back on the homework train again next week.

Read, write and play with them – Children become readers on the laps on their parents. Whether they are reading a book or playing a comprehension game on the iPad, join in and play along with your child.

Bring the lessons to different print forms – It doesn’t always have to be about writing sentences or stories with a pen or pencil. Explore other outlets – chalk on the driveway, magnets on the fridge, Styrofoam in the bath, and yes, even creating cartoons on the IPad. Play with words – BINGO, word searches, crossword puzzles and board games such as ZINGO all allow you to blend learning with play.

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Read aloud and with expression – Prove to them that reading can be fun by making it fun.

Bring a book - Always carry a book in your bag. When your child is waiting at the doctor’s office, rather than reaching for the iPhone, give her a book to look through.

Plan a monthly “technology free” weekend – This means all phones, iPads and tablets are put in a drawer and hidden until the end of the weekend.

Work as a team – Keep the lines of communication open with your child’s teacher.

Consider assistance – If you have a child that is falling further and further behind and you just cannot seem to get through, then consider getting him assessed, either through the school or with a private company. Knowing where the problem lies is often the first step to finding the solution.

Another route to consider is to look for additional support through a tutoring company. A good tutoring company not only provides extra help but also teaches the parents different learning techniques to help their child succeed.

And, most importantly, remember that every child is different. As parents, it is up to us to be there to encourage them to keep going, no matter how long or difficult the journey is. The journey may be taking longer than normal but that’s okay.

Enjoy this road to reading and writing together and take as many pit stops as you need.

ADVERTORIAL

pakmag

STORY Dr Craig Murison

It is obvious that children develop both physically and mentally as they grow up. When you compare photos of your child as a baby with one of them at age fifteen there may be some small features in common. However, a baby looks nothing like a fifteen year old.

The changes which occur in physical appearance are obvious to the eye. The changes which occur in the ways children think as they grow up are not always so obvious: As children grow and develop they move from being able to only understand very concrete concepts to being able to engage with more abstract ideas. Concrete things are things you can touch, smell, and see. Abstract things are things you have to conceptualise within your mind and may not be able to see, touch or smell.

Small children struggle to get a grasp on time. They may be able to read a clock and will slowly develop a concept of tomorrow and yesterday but they will struggle with next week or next year etc. You can see this in the way teachers use concrete objects such as blocks or bottle tops when they are teaching the early concepts in mathematics.

Some other aspects of children’s responses to parents can also be tied to developmental issues. We can all probably remember asking our child why they did something and being frustrated at the response, “I don’t know,” (often annoyingly delivered in a whining tone of voice). The reality is that children often do not know why they did something.

They do not have the life experience or language skills to put what they are feeling or thinking into words.

Those of us with older children can all probably also remember the times when our children have given the, “I don’t know,” response and have clearly known quite well!

It is a real skill to be able to tell the difference between the two (a skill I don’t think I ever completely mastered).

The point is that children are not little versions of adults.

They do not have the same capacity to process their thoughts, feelings and motivations as adults do. Brain development continues right into the twenties. It is generally accepted that the prefrontal cortex of the brain does not finish developing until around the age of twenty five. The prefrontal cortex is where we make decisions which weigh up risk against cost. This goes a long way to explain why young people sometimes take such ridiculous risks!

I know there is a temptation to see children as little versions of ourselves. It is always nice when people make the observation that a child is similar to one or both parents in looks and/or mannerisms. They are, however, not a mini you, or a mini me.

Children are just that – they are children. We should not put adult-like expectations on them.

www.pakmag.com.au MAY 2016

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EDUCATION

Switching on

pakmag

to Science

STORY Dr. Nicole Ezard, Head of Science, TAS

Let’s face it, science isn’t for everyone. Not every child wants to grow up to be a doctor, a veterinarian or in a career that involves science.

However, there is no denying that science is around everyone, all of the time. So why should children get involved in science?

I suppose the simple answer is, why not? Children are inquisitive by nature; they are interested in how things work and will often take things apart to find out what actually happens. This is science at its most fundamental level.

To question, modify, solve and then question again are skills that all children have and are skills that science will encourage.

During school, children are exposed to a huge range of activities that promote higher order thinking. From preparatory where students look after stick insects, to year twelve chemistry where students investigate the effects of cooking on levels of Vitamin C in vegetables, science is providing these children with the skills to question the world around them and challenge those ideas that may be flawed.

So how can parents incorporate science into daily activities at home? Here are some suggestions: For nature lovers

For the mechanically minded

A simple idea is to grow some seeds. All you need is a small plate, cottonwool and some seeds. Check out page 44 for our step by step guide.

Perhaps you have an older child at home who likes to take things apart. If you have some old electronic toys or gadgets (phones, keyboards, clocks) that are no longer being used, have your child dismantle the toy or device so they can see how these machines are wired together.

For the curious chemists and cooks From a chemistry perspective, you could bake a cake. Adding different ingredients to make a mixture and asking, “can we separate these?” encourages your child to question chemical processes. Further to that, the baking of a cake involves a whole new range of chemical reactions that may be investigated.

For the budding detectives Create invisible ink using lemon juice and teach your children about the process of oxidation. Simply mix lemon juice with a few drops of water, dip in a cotton bud and write a message onto a piece of white paper. Once the juice dries and the paper is held up to a light bulb, the message will become clear.

Our children are exposed to science through all sorts of media, from the pre-school shows on television (Play School is great for introducing simple science projects to younger generations), to the news reports on the radio. Studying science at school gives children the skills to differentiate fact from fiction and understand how things work.

Children want to investigate the world in which they live and we, as parents, just need to take a step in the right direction. Play around with the different branches of science and see what sparks your children’s curiosity.

www.pakmag.com.au MAY 2016

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1300 173 366 rednoseday.com.au

Fertility Ability

Want a baby? Here’s how to maximise your chances

Around 80 percent of women will become pregnant within the year with regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. But Dr Kaylene Ferguson from Omega Health Medical Centre Cairns says there are a few other tips to help you get knocked up.

“It goes without saying that more sex increases your chances – in fact women who have sex every night will fall pregnant four times faster than those who have sex just once a week,” said Dr Ferguson.

“After 40, there are additional complications,” said Dr Ferguson, “such as a higher chance of miscarriage, birth defects, and still birth. You’re also more likely to need to give birth by caesarean.

“But fertility varies from person to person and, while you’re highly likely to fall pregnant within 12 months of seriously trying, up to 15 percent of couples will experience some difficulties.

“That being said, if you’ve already had a baby before that age, it will be much easier to conceive,” she said.

“It’s important to understand your body, your personal reproductive cycle, and how your health and lifestyle impact on your fertility,” she said.

Research shows that your most fertile years for starting a family are between the ages of 18 and 32. From that point, your fertility reduces by up to eight percent every year and, by the time you hit 40, there’s a 50 percent chance you’re no longer fertile.

The best time for conception

“It’s the 6 days – called the ‘fertile window’ – leading up to your ovulation when you’re most likely to conceive,” she said.

Tips to improve your fertility • Drink less alcohol and caffeine • Stop smoking • Eat healthy to maintain a healthy weight

Dr Ferguson says: “Approximately once every month your ovaries produce at least one mature egg – this is called ‘ovulation’.

• Engage in moderate (not

“For women with 28 days between periods, ovulation typically happens on day 14. Those who have longer cycles of around 35 days will ovulate around 21 days after their period.

And women with shorter cycles of around 21 days ovulate around 7 days after their period.

“If you’ve been living a healthy life

excessive) physical exercise • Reduce stress in your life

and trying for at least a year but you’re still not pregnant, that’s the point when you should talk to your doctor for a referral to a fertility specialist,” said Dr Ferguson.

“Otherwise, happy baby-making!”

Fertility Myths Busted!

Can the jocks your partner wears or the position you lay after intercourse really make a difference in terms of fertility?

According to the experts, not in the slightest!

Tight jocks can impact fertility

Sexual positions make a difference

You’ve probably heard that tighty whiteys are a no-go for

No study has confirmed that there is a special position to use when trying to conceive because every woman’s body is different.

aspiring dads-to-be as the tightness of the jocks can raise scrotal temperature and cause a decrease in sperm count.

While it is true that very high temperatures can be harmful to sperm, your partner’s choice of underwear does not heat things up enough to make an impact.

Furthermore, flipping yourself upside down or lying with your feet in the air after sex will not help you conceive.

So lay back and relax! No head stands necessary.

www.pakmag.com.au MAY 2016

19

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is the perfect gift for This gorgeous designer nappy bag provides mums with a alia new mums and mums to be! Synd nappy bags that -end high ern, mod of superlative collection ionable. are as functional as they are fash n't mean you lose your style!

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ROMPER STOMPER KIDS FEIYUE WINGS TODDLER SNEAKER WEB www.romperstomper.com.au RRP $79.95 The Feiyue range are a super cool lightweight canvas shoe that blend style, comfort and a novelty design that first walkers and confident walkers will love.

Romper Stomper Kids is an online boutique specialising in high quality shoe brands for babies, toddlers and kids aged 0 - 5 yrs.

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NURSING MAMA ESSENTIAL BAMBOO SINGLETS WEB www.nursingmama.com.au RRP $54.95 The collection of Nursing Mama essentials wasn't designed for any reason than for mums to colour their lives with soft, delicate colourful nursing wear that can be coupled with any type of clothing.

Choose from Radiance in Yellow, Calmness in Teal, Tranquility in Royal Blue or Balance in Charcoal Gray and Fearlessness in Black.

The essential singlet for every mum made from Bamboo viscose, gentle and delicate to wear and touch.

THE WHAT, WHY, WHEN OF SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME (SIDS) STORY Hannah Whiteaker

About 90 percent of cases of SIDS happen in the first six months of a baby’s life. Very few deaths from SIDS occur after a year – although this has occurred in children of various ages.

W H Y D OE S I T HAPPEN? No one knows exactly what causes SIDS, but it is thought to be the result of a combination of factors. Experts believe SIDS occurs at a particular stage in a baby’s development, and that it affects babies who are vulnerable to certain environmental

WHAT CAN YOU DO? • Follow the Safe Sleep Guidleines (www.sidsandkids.org/safe-sleeping), sleeping your baby on their back even if it is not always the easiest option. By following these guidelines you are greatly reducing the risk of your baby dying from SIDS; however there are cases of SIDS where safely slept babies have still passed away.

y

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or

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W H E N D OE S IT HAPPEN?

Babies who die of SIDS are thought to have developmental deficiencies in the way they respond to these stresses and how they regulate their heart rate, breathing and temperature.

Su

SIDS is a diagnosis that's made when an apparently healthy baby dies, without warning, and for no clear reason after autopsy.

stresses such as tobacco smoke, getting tangled in bedding, overheating, minor illness or having a breathing obstruction.

Da

W H AT I S I T?

e tS os N IDS and Kids Red

• SIDS charity, “River’s Gift” advocate the use of breathing monitors such as the Snuza Hero which allows you to know within 20 seconds should your baby stop breathing. Timing is critical when it comes to saving your baby’s life as an infant can be brain dead after 90 seconds with no oxygen.

• It is important that parents learn CPR so that they can help their child in an emergency.

W H AT I S TH E FUT URE? In November 2011, a healthy, safely-slept baby named River passed away due to SIDS. River’s Gift was formed shortly after and is now the largest source of non-government funding for SIDS research.

Together with the Cooper Trewin SUDC Research Fund, Rivers Gift have provided funding for a young Australian researcher to study at Boston Children’s Hospital in the United States. Having completed almost 10 months of her fellowship, Ms Emma Giles is involved in projects investigating the causes of sudden death in paediatrics including SIDS and SUDC. The goal is to find a suitable test that can be performed on newborn babies to identify those at risk of SIDS. However, until there is a test available, all parents need to be aware that this can happen to any baby. For more information please contact River’s Gift: www.riversgift.com

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WHAT'S ON JUNE Friday 3

Monday 6

BRING YOUR BABY ALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / Cost / Adult

BRING YOUR BABY ALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / Cost / Adult

Wednesday 8

Saturday 4 WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS - THE JUNGLE BOOK Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family JAMES BLUNDELL Mackay RSL 10.00am / Cost / Adult

Sunday 5 WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS - THE JUNGLE BOOK Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

GREATER WHITSUNDAY FARMERS’ MARKET Wood Street Park markethq@ greaterwhitsundayfood.org.au 2.00pm / Family BRING YOUR BABY ALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 12.30pm / Cost / Adult

Saturday 11 PORTERS MONTHLY MARKET Porters www.porterscando.com.au 8.00am / Free / Family

"Rob picks The 52-Story Treehouse - Live on Stage on Saturday 11" THE 52-STOREY TREEHOUSE - LIVE ON STAGE MECC Auditorium www.mackayecc.com.au 11.30am / Cost / Family THE 52-STOREY TREEHOUSE - LIVE ON STAGE MECC Auditorium www.mackayecc.com.au 2.00pm / Cost / Family

Wednesday 15 GREATER WHITSUNDAY FARMERS’ MARKET Wood Street Park markethq@ greaterwhitsundayfood. org.au 2.00pm / Family CHICKS AT THE FLICKS ME BEFORE YOU Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 6.00pm / Cost / Adult

Sunday 19 SENSORY MOVIE DAYANGRY BIRDS BCC Mt Pleasant www.facebook.com/ SensoryMovieDayMackay 11.00am / Cost / Family

Tuesday 21 MACKAY SHOW Mackay Showgrounds www.mackayshow.com.au 9.00am / Cost / Family

Wednesday 22 GREATER WHITSUNDAY FARMERS’ MARKET Wood Street Park markethq@ greaterwhitsundayfood. org.au 2.00pm / Family MACKAY SHOW Mackay Showgrounds www.mackayshow.com.au 9.00am / Cost / Family

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

www.pakmag.com.au MAY 2016

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WHAT'S ON JUNE

"Scott picks Souths Family Carnival Day on Saturday 25"

Thursday 23

Saturday 25

MACKAY SHOW

SOUTHS FAMILY CARNIVAL DAY Souths Leagues Club www.southsmackay.com.au 2.00pm / Family

MOVIE NIGHT - THE GOOD DINOSAUR Harrup Park Country Club 4944 0000 6.30pm / $4.00 membership / Family

Mackay Showgrounds www.mackayshow.com.au 9.00am / Cost / Family ICETASTIC SKATE RINK Untill 10 July

Caneland Central Riverfront Carpark www.canelandcentral.com.au

SOUTHS FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT Souths Leagues Club www.southsmackay.com.au 6.00pm / Family

9.00am / Cost / Family

Sunday 26

Friday 24 MORNING TEA -

CELTIC ILLUSION (LIVE) MECC Auditorium www.mackayecc.com.au 8.00pm / Cost / Family

CENTRE

Tuesday 28

www.facebook.com/

PUPPET SHOW GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS Let the Children Play Toyshop www.playmackay.com.au 10.00am / Gold Coin / Family

FRIENDS OF THE BIRTH Mackay Women's Centre FriendsMackayBirthCentre/ 9.30am / Free / Family RED NOSE DAY National

www.rednoseday.com.au

Wednesday 29 GREATER WHITSUNDAY FARMERS’ MARKET Wood Street Park markethq@ greaterwhitsundayfood. org.au 2.00pm / Family PUPPET SHOW GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS Let the Children Play Toyshop www.playmackay.com.au 2.00pm / Gold Coin / Family

Thursday 30 BEDTIME STORIES Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 6.00pm / Free / Family

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

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FOR REGULAR MARKET DATES SEE PAGE 29

MINIMAG

pakmag

IN CINEMAS JUNE 23

Ice Age: Collision Course TM & Š 2016 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

www.pakmag.com.au MAY 2016

25

WIN

A FAMILY PASS TO PAKMAG'S EXCLUSIVE MOVIE PREVIEW OF ICE AGE: COLLISION COURSE

TO ENTER COLOUR IN & MAIL TO:

NAME............................................................................................. AGE..............

PAKMAG, COLOUR IN JUNE 2016 PO BOX 7433, CAIRNS QLD 4870

PARENT/GUARDIAN...........................................................................................

WIN A FAMILY PASS TO PAKMAG'S EXCLUSIVE MOVIE PREVIEW OF ICE AGE: COLLISION COURSE. (COMP CLOSES 17/06/16)

ADDRESS............................................................................................................. .............................................................................................POSTCODE.............

MKY

PHONE.........................................EMAIL..............................................................

WIN

ONE OF 15 FAMILY PASSES TO FINDING DORY

©2016 DISNEY/PIXAR

TO ENTER COLOUR IN & MAIL TO:

NAME............................................................................................. AGE..............

PAKMAG, COLOUR IN JUNE 2016 PO BOX 7433, CAIRNS QLD 4870

PARENT/GUARDIAN...........................................................................................

WIN A FAMILY PASS TO FINDING DORY (COMP CLOSES 30/06/16)

ADDRESS............................................................................................................. .............................................................................................POSTCODE.............

MKY

PHONE.........................................EMAIL..............................................................

From the human beans that created and the author of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and “Matilda”

WIN

ONE OF 15 FAMILY PASSES TO THE BFG

IN CINEMAS JUNE 30 ©2016 Disney

TO ENTER, EMAIL US THE ANSWER TO THIS QUESTION: WHO WROTE THE CLASSIC "THE BFG" BOOK? ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE 'THE BFG COMP' IN THE SUBJECT LINE, YOUR NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, LOCATION & PHONE NUMBER IN THE EMAIL BODY. WIN A FAMILY PASS TO THE BFG (COMP CLOSES 30/06/16)

REGULAR MARKETS SEAFORTH MARKETS

TWILIGHT MARKETS

PORTERS COMMUNITY MARKETS

DATE 1st Sunday of the month (Apr to Dec) TIME From 9.00am LOCATION Eungella Memorial Hall - North Streett

DATE Every Sunday

DATE First Saturday of each month

MARIAN MARKETS

DATE Every Saturday

LOCATION Northern Beaches Bowls Club TIME 6.00pm - 9.00pm INFO Please visit website for dates and theme www.nbbowls.com.au PAXTON’S NIGHT MARKETS

FARMERS’ MARKET

DATE* 2nd Friday of the month TIME From 5.00pm LOCATION Paxtons Warehouse

DATE Every Wednesday of the month

EUNGELLA MARKETS

DATE 3rd Sunday of the month TIME From 8.00am LOCATION Holy Rosary Church Anzac Avenue (Excluding May & Dec) SARINA SHOWGROUND MARKET DATE Last Sunday of the month TIME From 8.00am (Mar to Dec) LOCATION Bruce Highway Sarina

TIME From 8.30am

LOCATION Palm Avenue Seaforth SHOWGROUND MARKETS TIME From 6.30am

LOCATION Milton Street TROPPO TREASURE MARKET DATE 2nd Sunday of the month TIME From 7.30am to 11.30am LOCATION Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

*Check their Facebook page as dates subject to change www.facebook. com/PaxtonsNightMarkets

TIME From 8.00am LOCATION Porters at the Corner of Brisbane & Gordon Streets THE GREATER WHITSUNDAY

TIME From 2.00pm to 6.00pm LOCATION Wood Street Park

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

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REGULAR EVENTS

BIKE RIDERS

THURSDAYS THURSDAY NIGHT SOCIAL RIDE A weekly evening get together for a ride and catch up, on each Thursday.

Meeting point Metro Café, River Street Start time 7.00pm Ability level Beginner-intermediate INFO Visit Bicycle Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL LIBRARIES BABY BOUNCE Please note that Baby Bounce does not run during the school holidays.

Gordon White Library Thursdays 10.30am - 11.00am Mackay City Library Mondays 11am - 11.30am Mirani Library Mondays 9.30am - 10.00am Sarina Library Tuesdays 9.30am - 10.00am

STORYTIME

RUNNERS SATURDAYS SOCIAL RIDES Meeting point Metro Café, River Street Start time 6.30am ABILITY LEVELS Team Caffeine (Beginner - intermediate): 15-20km/h Team Tour de Latte (Intermediate): 25km/h Team Slipstream (Intermediate-advanced): 30km/h Team Titanium (Advanced): 35km+/h More Info Visit Rock N Road Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates.

SUNDAYS

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.

TIMES AND LOCATIONS Mirani Library Tuesdays 9.30am - 10.00am Walkerston Library Tuesdays 10.30am - 11.00am Gordon White Library Wednesdays 10.30am - 11.00am Fridays 9.30am - 10.00am Sarina Library Wednesdays 10.00am - 11.00am Mackay City Library Thursdays 10.30am - 11.00am Please note that Storytime does not run during the school holidays.

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, fun-filled environment.

The sessions encourage valuable one-on-one time between parent and child and are also a great networking opportunity for parents.

TIMES AND LOCATIONS Gordon White Library Mondays 9.30am – 10.00am Mirani Library Wednesday 9.30am – 10.00am Mackay City Library Friday 9.30am – 10.00am 30

MAY 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Farleigh at 6:30pm Ability level Intermediate-advanced More Info Visit Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates *MAD MTB or MTBA membership is required to use the trails.

LAZY RIDERS Held every second Sunday -stay for breakfast after the ride!

Meeting point Bridges Café, Bluewater Quay Start time 7.00am Ability level beginner-intermediate More Info Visit 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 Road, Farleigh Start time From 6.00am Ability level Beginner-advanced More Info Visit Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates

WEDNESDAYS BICYCLE BELLES A social riding group just for ladies, held every Wednesday.

Meeting point Bicycle Connection, 20 Victoria Street, Mackay Start time 6.00am Ability level beginner-intermediate More Info Visit 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 Held every Wednesday at the Gooseponds.

Meeting point Car park at the end of Willis Street, North Mackay Start time 10.00am More Info Visit Bicycle Belles Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MOUNTAIN BIKE (MTB) NIGHT RIDE* Meets every Wednesday to ride the trails – lights on bike and helmets are a must!

Meeting point 1 Corry Cycles, 5 Kay Court, North Mackay at 6pm Meeting point 2 Rowallan Mountain Bike Park, Glendaragh Road,

THE LAYZEE RUNNERS CLUB Every Saturday from 5.45am Meet at the Metro Market Cafe, River Street, Mackay Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30am. Meet at the City Fitness Health Club, Victoria Street.

Free More Info For more details visit www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

WALKING GROUPS MACKAY DOG WALKERS & SOCIAL GROUP Every Saturday at 7:45 for an 8am start. Departs from Bluewater Quay More Info For more information visit the Mackay Dog Walkers Facebook page.

HEALTH & HEART WALKING An initiative of the Heart foundation.

Departs from 2 Tennyson St, Mackay Every Saturday at 6:45am Contact Heather 4957 7997

ACTIVE IN THE CITY Dog Walking Group Every Sunday from 7.00am - 8.00am at the Bluewater Trail - starting at the Bluewater Quay Zumba Every Sunday from 9.00am - 10.00am at the Bluewater Quay Rock N Road Cycle Every Saturday from 6.30am at the Metro Market Cafe The LRC Runners Club Every Saturday from 5.45am at Metro Market Cafe.

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30am at City Fitness Health Club

SOUTHS LEAGUES CLUB MONDAYS

9.00am Mother Hubbard Drawn 6.15pm 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Members Roast Night in Bistro 7.30pm FREE Trivia Night 7.30pm Pick The Pig Gaming Room 8.00pm Members Monthly Birthday Draw

TUESDAYS 1.00pm Green Grocer Gaming Room 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Gimme 5 for $12 in the Bistro 7.00pm Members Attendance Draw

WEDNESDAYS 12.30pm Souths CASH Bingo 1.00pm Supermarket Sweep Gaming Room 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Hump Day Rib or Rump 6.00pm Club Raffles 6.00 - 9.00 WOW promotion Gaming Promotion 7.00pm Free Texas Hold'em Poker with 888PL 7.30pm Souths Cash Bingo

THURSDAYS 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Kids Eat Free 6.00pm Club Raffle 7.45pm Membership Draw 8.00pm Major Tom Gaming Promotion

FRIDAYS 4.00 - 7.00pm Happy Hour From 5.00pm TGIFriday Wheel 6.00pm If you Crumb it They Will Come 6.00pm Club Raffles 7.00pm Live Entertainment Sports Bar 7.30pm Lucky Seat Gaming Room

SATURDAYS 11.00 - 12.00pm Happy Hour From 12.00 noon Auction Cup 12.30pm Club Raffles 1.45pm Membership Draw 3.00pm FREE Sausage Sizzle Sports Bar 3.00 - 4.00pm Happy Hour 7.00pm Live Entertainment, Sports Bar 8.00pm After Dinner Mint Gaming Room

SUNDAYS 9.00am Sunday Buffet Breakfast in Bistro 1.00pm Club Raffles 1.45pm Membership Draw 2.00pm FREE Texas Hold’em Poker with 888L 6.00pm Club Raffles 6.00 - 7.00pm Happy Hour 7.00pm Saints Bingo (Last Sunday Of Each Month) Souths MAJOR Promotion Drawn

MACKAY ANIMAL RESCUE SOCIETY

Monthly Adoption Day Last Sunday of the month, 9.00am to 12.00pm, Mackay Pet Superstore, Greenfields Fundraiser Markets Third Sunday of the Month Mackay Marina 9.00 - 1.00pm

ECO ART POPUP STUDIO

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS 0 - 5 YEARS Time 9.00 - 10.00am Location Old Harbour Park, Mulherin Drive, Mackay Harbour Cost $5.00 6 - 12 YEARS Time 3.30 - 4.00pm Location New Harbour Park, East Point Drive, Mackay Harbour 13 - 17 YEARS Time 4.30 - 5.00pm Location New Harbour Park, East Point Drive, Mackay Harbour 18+ YEARS Time 10.30 - 11.00am Location Old Harbour Park, Mulherin Drive, Mackay Harbour

LET THE CHILDREN PLAY TOYSHOP CHILDREN’S BOOK READING

Day Every Tuesday Time 9.30am to 10am Free - Bring your snack. Coffee/tea will be available Location 15b Macalister St Cnr Victoria & Macalister Sts Contact 4944 0180 or email info@playmackay.com.au

Learn and Grow with

SCIENCE FUN! Children learn by watching and doing which is why science projects are so great for teaching children about the world around them. There are plenty of different science projects online designed for toddlers, pre-schoolers and school-aged children.

Here are two fun science projects to do at home that focus on the magical world of plant-life, perfect for scientists of all ages.

Thanks to www.growingajeweledrose.com for the great craft ideas.

Flower Power Delight in this fun floral experience that blends colour and magic (well, science, not magic). This experiment is great for teaching children about plants and flowers and brings a level of anticipation and excitement to every day! Your kids will delight in waking up every morning to see if the flowers have changed at all.

YOU NEED: White flowers (roses, carnations, daisies, etc.), food colouring, glasses or vases, scissors TO MAKE: 1. Trim the flowers down so that they fit nicely in a vase or glass (or flask). 2.

Fill your vases with water and add a few drops of the various colours of food colouring to each glass. 3. Add a flower to each vase and place the vases in a sunny spot. 4. As the flowers drink the water, they will start to change colour.

TIPS: Ask the kids to make predictions about what will happen.

Observe the flowers for two weeks to see the most drastic change.

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BEFORE

AFTER

Watch Me Grow

Bring science and reading together with this fairy tale science project. Grow a magic beanstalk and rediscover the tale that brought the bean (and the magic) to life.

YOU NEED: A jar, cotton balls, a dry lima bean, water and a sunny window TO MAKE: 1. Wet (but don’t saturate) several cotton balls and place them in a jar. 2. Wedge a bean between the cotton balls and up against the jar so that your child can easily observe the magic bean growing. 3. Add a few drops of water each day and watch as your beanstalk begins to take form.

TIPS: For older children, get them to write down their predictions (hypothesis) about what will happen over the next several days.

Your beanstalk should start forming after just one day. After a week it should be coming out of the jar. If this isn’t the case, consider adding a few more drops of water each day or placing it in a more lit area.

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pakmag CELEBRATE

- UNDER -

Under The Sea Party Box Etsy store: OhShinyPaperCo (RRP $83.69)

The Sea With Finding Dory swimming into theatres this month, you can expect an influx of requests for Under the Sea theme parties.

We’ve tracked down our favourite finds and party tips to help you host an amusing aqua adventure for your littles ones.

Deep Sea Decorations • Blue and green crepe paper and paper lanterns • Message in a bottle (or sand) centrepieces • Jellyfish and octopus balloons (ribbon tentacles) • “Seaweed” streamers

Sweets and Tasty Treats • Aquatic fairy bread – use all blue hundreds & thousands (you can get these in the baking section) • Crustacean cupcakes with crab, starfish and fish cupcake toppers • Jelly Fish – Mould your jelly into a fish shape.

• Starfish bikkies.

• Fishy fruit platters – experiment with turtles, octopus, starfish, crabs and more.

• Boat shaped sandwiches.

Aquatic Activities • Crab racing – have the kids race on all fours like a crab in the backyard.

• Water balloon wars – fill up a bucket of water balloons and let the kids go crazy.

• Fish, Fish, Shark – give the classic Duck Duck Goose an oceanic twist.

• Find Nemo, Dory and other fish friends – set up an ocean-themed scavenger hunt.

Petit Collage - Pop-Out - Ocean 34 MAY 2016 www.pakmag.com.au www.earthtoys.net (RRP $14.95)

Floating Whale - Kid O www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $19.95)

Blue Paisley Summer Dolls Dress Etsy store: DebsDollsClothes (RRP $14.00)

Lil Sailing Boat www.earthtoys.net (RRP $5.50ea)

Grimm's Sailboat Puzzle www.earthtoys.net (RRP $49.95)

Starfish 3 Piece Set www.okgift.com.au (RRP $15.95)

Icingbits Cake Toppers www.icingbits.com

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ne u J s ’ g PakMa

Caneland Central Icetastic is back these School holidays. Promises to be huge, fantastic, and extremely popular with everyone, not just the kids!

ICETASTIC SKATE RINK Thursday 23 June – Sunday 10 July 9.00am – 6.00pm Daily (8.30pm on Thursdays and Saturdays) Located at the Riverfront Carpark 1 hour sessions for only $15.00 per person Call 0412 344 941 to make a booking Visit www.canelandcentral.com.au for more details.

Souths Leagues Club Come One Come All to Souths

FAMILY CARNIVAL DAY AND MOVIE NIGHT 25 June from 2.00pm There will be Old Macdonald’s farm, Magician, Balloon Artist and a Kids Concert. Fairy Floss, Stilt Walkers, face painters, Bouncy Castle and much more.

Stay for the Movie night from 6.00pm Like their Facebook page SouthsLeaguesClubMackay to be kept up to date on what’s happening at Souths.

More info available on their website www.southsmackay.com.au

Begin Bright – NEW Business to Mackay

(particularly working parents) and is held in the evening during the school holidays.

Begin Bright Mackay will be running school holiday programs in these School Holidays.

This hour long program of stories, finger plays, songs and a craft activity enhances language and literacy development in an interactive, fun-filled environment.

Erica creates a learning environment where all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

For more information, call Erica 0400 161 902 or email mackay@beginbright.com.au More info available on their website www.beginbright.com. au/locations/mackay

Porters FREE HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT FOR KIDS Each weekend of the school holidays.

Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 June, Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 July and Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 July Porters & The Family Table Kids Cooking Classes - $12 per child Saturday 25, Sunday 26 June and Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 July Visit www.porterscando.com.au for more information and class times

Mackay City Libraries BEDTIME STORIES Bedtime Stories is aimed at 0 - 8 year olds and their families

The sessions encourage a child’s love of books, highlights the value of reading to children and promotes the library environment as an exciting place for the whole family.

Time and Location: June/July School Holidays Gordon White Library Thursday 30 June, 6.00pm – 7.00pm Mackay City Library Thursday 7 July, 6.00pm – 7.00pm

KIDS FREE COMEDY SHOW AND WORKSHOP. Comedian Sean Murphy is throwing the ultimate party and you are invited!

Kids Party Confidential is a raucous ride for children aged 5 - 12 years and adults of all ages.

You will laugh, you will cringe and you will learn to tie an incredible balloon sword!

Following the show there will be an optional workshop for participants where kids create their own games that they can replicate at home.

Wednesday 6 July Gordon White Library Show 10.00am - 11.00am Workshop 11.10am - 12.00noon

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pakmag SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

Mackay City Library Show 2.00pm - 3.00pm Workshop 3.10pm - 4.00pm Bookings are essential and open to the public on Monday 13 June www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries/get_involved/for_kids/ school_holiday_activities

SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES School holiday activities are run during every school break for children aged Prep to Year 6.

Activities are also available for high school students.

Activity dates and details available closer to the time on their website www.mackay.qld. gov.au/libraries Like them on Facebook to keep updated on what’s coming up www.facebook.com/ mackaylibraries For more information, contact your local library or check out the Mackay Regional Council Libraries website www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries/get_involved/for_kids/ school_holiday_activities

Let the Children Play LET THE CHILDREN PLAY ARE HOLDING 3 PUPPET SHOWS IN THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” with Rosalyn from Wild Puppets at Let the Children Play Toyshop 3 Shows - Tuesday 28 June at 10.00am, Wednesday 29 June at 2.00pm and Monday 4 July at 10.00am Gold coin donation. Bookings Essential!

15b Macalister St (Cnr Victoria St) CALL 4944 0180 EMAIL info@playmackay.com.au WEB www.playmackay.com.au

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Harrup Park Country Club KIDS FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY CRAFT From Monday 26 June to Friday 8 July 12.00 -2.00pm Monday - Friday Different themes each day (must be a member of the Kids Club only $4.00 to join) Tuesday’s are FREE School Holiday Movie Nights - 6.30pm – 8.30pm

The Family Table KIDS IN THE KITCHEN COOKING CLASSES Tuesday 28 June to Thursday 07 July Running at Various times.

Bookings are essential For more information, please call Trudie 0449 167 152, www.familytable.com.au, www.facebook.com/ familytablemackay, familytable@internode.on.net

28 June - The Good Dinosaur 5 July – Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Popcorn and drinks provided.

Kids Club Members Bookings Essential, call 4944 0000 to book in, limited spots available More info available on their website www.harruppark.com.au/ KidsClub

Kidzlife Play Centre The holiday period is very busy so to guarantee your entry and some table space for your group there is 2 offers available to you.

1. Group Bookings - Organize a play date with your friends (10 kids or more), call in advance to book, complete the booking form and pay a $50.00 deposit to confirm your booking.

You'll have guaranteed entry and receive 10% off the kidz entry cost and adults are free.

2. Room Hire $100.00 - includes entry for 5 kidz, party room for 1 hour where you can eat your own lunch or snacks from home, and a table reserved in the centre as well. Extra kidz at normal admission prices, adults are free.

Available all year, bookings essential, for more info and to book please call 4953 5575

LET THEM KNOW YOU READ IT IN PAKMAG!

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39

pakmag RECIPES

HEALTHY RECIPES Sneaky Veg

en R Chick olls

PREP TIME 5 minutes COOK TIME 40 minutes

MAKES: Around 100 mini rolls

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

1 ¼ cups gluten-free banana flour

8 frozen puff pastry sheets (pre-packaged)

3 tablespoon cocoa

½ cup sugar or replacement

2 tablespoons desiccated coconut 1 cup milk

125 grams butter 2 eggs

HOW TO MAKE 1. Preheat oven to 180ºC.

2. Place all ingredients in a bowl and mix very well until all ingredients are combined. You can use a blender or food processor or simply use a handheld mixer.

3. Pour mixture into a lined cake tin and bake for 40 minutes or until cooked.

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1 kg of chicken mince 5 eggs (1 will be used to brush the pastry) 3 tablespoons of LSA ½ cup wholegrain breadcrumbs 1 kg of mixed fresh veggies including carrots, zucchini, celery, mushrooms, broccoli, eggplant, corn, peas, leek and spinach (or whatever else you prefer) ¼ cup chopped parsley HOW TO MAKE 1. Preheat oven to 210ºC

2. Chop (or grate) all veggies.

3. Mix together all ingredients in a large bowl (except the puff pastry and the extra egg) and massage with your hands.

4. Defrost puff pastry and cut a sheet in half.

5. Brush the puff pastry with egg (cracked and mixed gently).

6. Lay out your sausage roll mixture in a long line at the bottom of the sheet and roll.

7. To keep the roll together, brush with more of the egg.

8. Repeat this process with the additional pastry and mixture until all used up.

9. Using a knife, cut the sausage logs into smaller pieces (7 or 8 per roll)

10. Place rolls on a baking tray and bake for 15 minutes on 210ºC before turning it down to 180ºC for an additional few mins.

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WINTER FASHION As the cool weather arrives it’s time to update our wardrobes with warm winter wear.

This season’s fashion trends are tassels and ankle boots and colours to consider include teal, red and tan.

Selected items available at www.sportsgirl.com.au

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WHAt's NEWS in Business Biz of the Month: Begin Bright Mackay

WHAT'S NEWS pakmag

Book: Louder Than Words - Harness the Power of Your Authentic Voice

BY Todd Henry WEB www.toddhenry.com/louderthanwords Build your audience for your ideas or your products with Todd Henry’s third book. This book delves deep into the various platforms and tools that are available and how you can implement in association with your own voice.

We all want what’s best for our children. Begin Bright is a primary tutoring company designed to help children with school readiness. Customised to suit your child’s individual needs, the programs are aimed at children as young as two and help prepare them for the best start in life in a fun and playful environment.

Owned by Erica Chapman, Begin Bright recently opened its doors in North Mackay and is looking forward to helping families tackle school readiness together.

As Erica explains, “Every Child should be given the opportunity to reach their highest potential and at Begin Bright Mackay, that’s exactly what we do.”

Phone: 0400 161 902 Email: mackay@beginbright.com.au Website: www.beginbright.com. au/locations/mackay Address: 17/13 Evans Ave, North Mackay QLD 4740 Facebook: www.facebook.com/ beginbrightmackay

The more authentic your work is, the greater the impact you will have with the right audience. This is a great book for business owners looking to find their authentic voice and connect their business and brand on a more personal level.

App of the Month: TRELLO Cost: Free Available: Web, Apple and iPhone We recently discovered Trello at the PakMag office and cannot get enough. Trello is an organisation platform that allows you to keep track of all your projects at work and at home. It is incredibly userfriendly, visual and convienent and uses a drag and drop feature that makes it simple to create jobs, comment, add files and transfer tasks from one area to another.

Have You Heard: Petit Early Learning Journey celebrates first year Petit Early Learning Journey is a premium brand, longday care provider that is renowned for creating safe, respectful and compassionate environments.

This month the center will be celebrating their first year in business and want to take the opportunity to thank all the families for the support during this first year.

Petit Early Learning Journey is located at 18-20 Bissett Street in the Marian Town Centre.

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pakmag HOME

Decluttering YO UR HO M E

WITH THE BLOCK’S CARO & KINGI I think it’s safe to say that we all struggle with too much stuff. It’s inevitable.

Whether you fall under the category of an over-the-top organiser or are more of a happy hoarder, these ten tips are guaranteed to help you simplify your stuff and declutter your home.

1.

Set up a ‘where did I put that?’ box This is where the things you consistently need every day including keys, sunnies, lip balm, phones, chargers, etc.

2.

Find a spot for incoming papers Incoming papers are one of the easiest things to store in a corner and ignore, including mail, artwork, school letters, etc. Store papers in a box or basket and make it a habit to go through this area every Saturday or Sunday when you have a spare ten minutes.

3.

Make over your make up area Keep only the items that you use on a regular basis and bin the dried eye shadow, the ugly lipstick and the foundation from three years ago. Having only the essential items on hand makes it much easier to get ready for the day.

4.

Set up a family decluttering schedule Take thirty minutes every weekend to declutter or clean up as a family whether it’s cleaning the bedrooms, going through an old toy box or shelf or sorting through a closet. This teaches the kids to help pick up after themselves and also allows you to outsource some of the decluttering tasks.

5.

Austin Toy Box www.earthtoys.net (RRP $174.95)

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Mainw Pidgeon Shelving www.earlysettler.com.au (RRP $499.00)

Make an organisation station for the kids A bookcase or cupboard can double as a station for the kid’s school shoes, book bags, backpacks, hats, jackets and more.

This makes the morning rush a little less hectic.

6.

Use boxes, bins and baskets This helps ensure everything has a home. You can store pretty much anything in boxes and baskets including books, toys, stuffed animals, shoes and more.

7.

Create a craft corner Art and craft supplies must be one of the hardest things to keep tidy. Have a home for paint, brushes, play dough and clay, paper, crayons, pens and check it regularly to ensure the area remains tidy.

8.

Do a once-a-month charity drop Pick an area of the house to go through (closet, shelves, cupboards) and drop off anything that you don’t use and that is in good condition to the salvos.

9.

Declutter your electronic devices If your inbox is filled with unfiled emails, spam and unopened newsletters, take an hour a day to go through each account. You should also aim to keep your iPads and other electronic devices organised by binning the apps you don’t use anymore, backing up photos and making folders for the various documents you have created.

10.

Clear out your medicine cabinet This area can be a decluttered ticking time bomb, especially when you need something in a rush. Bin the out-of-date prescriptions, the dirty-looking bandages and the creams without a lid.

Cancun Basket www.fantasticfurniture.com.au (RRP $19.95)

Try a few of these tricks this weekend and see if it makes a difference to your home.

House Shelves Blue www.ellej.com.au (RRP $99.95)

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SNAPPED MACKAy

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1. Gracie - Baby and Kids Market 2. Harper - Baby and Kids Market 3. Chloe - Baby and Kids Market 4. Connor - Baby and Kids Market 5. Oliver - Baby and Kids Market 6. Kaliyah - Baby and Kids Market 7. Harper - Balnagowan 8. Chloe - Baby and Kids Market 48

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13 17 PHOTOS THANKS TO: SWEET FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY 0451 458 839 www.sweetfieldsphotography.com.au

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Get your photography business out there by being PakMag's Mackay Snapped Photographer.

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You will recieve monthly strip ad placement in the mag along with your business name and contact details on the Snapped page. Email your interest and examples of work to clare@grandpublishing.com.au by COB 20 JUNE.

9. Sophie - Baby and Kids Market 10. Max - Baby and Kids Market 11. Lily - Mackay 12. Violet - Baby and Kids Market 13. Tyler and Brianna - Baby and Kids Market 14. Clair and Ava - Baby and Kids Market 15. Phoenix- Baby and Kids Market 16. Owen - Baby and Kids Market 17. Zach - Baby and Kids Market

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Daddy Diary The Science of Star Gazing Have you ever seen the rings of Saturn? Of course you have. At school it was in science books and astronomy books. Maybe you've seen some science doco about the Universe and the Solar System.

But, have YOU ever seen the rings of Saturn, with your own eyes, for real?

Looking into a telescope, and against a background of stars millions of kilometres away is Saturn, a yellow circle, with rings around it, and some of its moons nearby.

My five year old son has seen this lots of times, because I've got a big telescope. Now that's not some strange verbal code for something I actually have a really big telescope and we look at Saturn, the craters on the moon and the cloud bands on Jupiter, all sorts of things like that.

I grew up being into sport and science, and I hope my boy gets into things like that too. We can tick dinosaurs off. He’s really interested in what happened with them and

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what they ate. He’s also interested in the stars and planets - but they can be really hard to explain, especially when it gets to questions like how big are they, how far away are they and so forth.

If there is some way, some angle you can use, I highly recommend getting your kids interested in sciency things.

It makes their little brains tick over, they get really inquisitive and ask all sorts of interesting and sometimes funny questions.

Maybe you get questions about clouds, seasons, or how things are made. All of them have some kind of science to them and maybe it will spark a real interest in your kids.

My son always has questions about the size of things like the moon and Saturn and how they compare to Mackay and Airlie Beach and Adelaide. Given that he is five, his understanding of the size of towns or countries isn’t great, but gee, it makes for some really interesting conversations.

If you’re outside tonight here’s a great starting point for you and your kids. You know sound travels at 330

metres per second and light you see immediately (if you didn’t know, now you do). That’s why you can time thunderstorm distance from the flash of lightning and the rumble of thunder. Light happens instantly, right? Not quite.

Here’s some other numbers, facts and figures to impress the kids with: • The moon is around 370,000 k’s away • It takes 1.3 seconds for light from the moon to reach earth (that’s 1.3 light seconds).

• Jupiter is 33 light minutes away.

• The nearest star to the sun is 4.26 light years away. In kilometres that’s 39,900,000,000,000… remember, that’s the CLOSEST star to our solar system.

Just last night I showed my son a galaxy that is 28 million light years from earth. That means the light going into our eyes last night as we looked at it, left that galaxy 28 million years ago.

That’s mind boggling. And Harrison wants to drive there tomorrow.

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