PakMag NQ Baby and Toddler Guide - Edition 4

EDITION 4

NQ BABY & TODDLER GUIDE

Tackling

Toilet Training AS EASY AS 1, 2, WEE!

Pullout

BABY BIRTHING CHECKLIST

Bubs Bucket List

TODDLER TANTRUMS

Surviving

TEETHING SLOBBER

Five Tips

TO SOOTHE YOUR BABY

M BU

52 PRAM FRIENDLY WALKS IN NQ

BEY P, BAB ON Y & D

LOADS OF LOCAL ACTIVITIES

Welcome Welcome to the North Queensland Baby and Toddler Guide, proudly brought to you by PakMag. Having a baby is a very exciting time. It means putting someone else first. It means sharing your world with a little one who thinks you are the most important person in the whole wide world. The road to parenthood is different for everyone, but the good news - is that there are plenty of great products and services to help you along the way.

Think of this guide as the ‘village’ full of resources, support and expert advice to help you raise your child.

This guide gives you a comprehensive look into everything you need to know to make your baby’s first years happy and healthy. We cover sleeping tips, milestones, introducing your baby to solids, great walks, activities to enrol in, your health and wellness services guide, helplines and lots, lots more!

We also have “Your Baby Checklist”. Navigate to the middle of the guide to find your all-important checklist of things to help you prepare for before and after your baby is born.

Don’t forget to join our “Give It A Go” and “Parents of North Queensland” Facebook groups, follow PakMag on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube – where you’ll find more resources to help you on your parenting journey.

I truly hope this guide helps you and that, despite the sleepless nights, parental guilt and constant worry - that you look after yourself and enjoy this special time. You’ve got this. Until next time, happy parenting, and don’t forget to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.

Bree Bree James PakMag Founder & Editor-in-Chief and Managing Director of Marketing To Families.

CONTENTS 5 Where to Start?

7 Pregnancy Stages 9 6 Tips to Support Your Pregnancy Journey 11 Cairns Local Health and Wellness Guide 13 A Natural Birthing Experience 14 The Second and Third Stages – LABOUR 17 Townsville Local Health and Wellness Guide 18 5 Things to Know about Feeding Your Baby 20 9 Tips for the Fourth Trimester 23 Mackay and Surrounds Local Health

and Wellness Guide 25 Easy Outings - Cairns 27 Easy Outings - Townsville 29 Easy Outings - Mackay 31 8 Things New Parents Need to Know 35 Surviving the Slobber of Teething 37 Tackling Toddler Tantrums 38 Services Directory 39 Helplines 41 Your Baby Birthing Checklists 44 Immunisation Schedule 47 Toilet Training as Easy as 1, 2, Wee! 49 Bub’s Bucket List Cairns 53 Bub’s Bucket List Townsville 57 Bub’s Bucket List Mackay 61 52 Pram Friendly Walks in NQ 66 10 Tips for Baby Safety 67 The 5 S’s to Sooth an Infant 69 Baby’s First Bites 70 Programs and Resources to Help with Sleep 72 Understanding and Communicating with Baby 75 Guide to Childcare, Kindergarten and School 76 Choosing a Kindergarten 79 Big School Time 81 8 Tips for Tear Free Transitions 82 Developmental Milestones

Contact Us: p 4053 3331 e admin@m2f.com.au a PO Box 7433, Cairns Qld 4870 · www.m2f.com.au · www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au · www.pakcairns.com.au · www.paktownsville.com.au · www.pakmackay.com.au

Our Global Parenting Channels PakMag Online pakmag_online The Give It A Go Group

For Parents The PakMag Parents Podcast PakMag TV

Our North Queensland Channels PakMag Cairns PakMag Townsville PakMag Mackay Parents of North Queensland pakmag_nq Parents and Kids of North Queensland Group Parents and Kids of North Queensland

families

Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the information included in this guide is accurate, we recommend checking details with the relevant company before making plans to visit, eat at or stay with the operators mentioned in this guide. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions.

WHERE TO START? YOUR GUIDE TO BUMP, BIRTH AND BEYOND Whether you’re jumping up and down with excitement or you’re in a state of shock, seeing those two pink lines on a pregnancy test is the start of an emotional rollercoaster.

Your brain is flooded with thoughts of what the next nine months will entail. Where will you give birth, who will deliver the baby and what do you have to do to stay healthy? There are so many questions. Before you know it your little one will be here and your life changes forever.

So, let us help you with where to start.

for those who have already had a baby. These programs are held at various venues. Visit www.health.qld.gov.au for more information.

You’ve Just Found out You’re Pregnant – Now What?

Breastfeeding – The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) holds classes for pregnant women and their partners to develop a support network and prepare for the changes coming into their lives. Visit www.breastfeeding.asn.au

Have your pregnancy confirmed – As you hold that positive pregnancy test in your hands, there’s a good chance you find yourself in a state of disbelief. It’s a good idea to take a second pregnancy test using a different brand to be sure, followed by a visit to your GP who will be able to confirm your pregnancy via blood test. Congratulations!

Take care of yourself – Your body is a temple, and now it’s home to a little prince, princess or both! It goes without saying that pregnancy is a time to eat healthy and nutritious foods, get involved in low-intensity exercises and it’s time to quit smoking and drinking if you were engaging in those activities.

Your health is just as important as your baby’s, so read this magazine front to back to see what options are available to you in terms of healthcare and to keep you in tip-top shape throughout each trimester.

Find out what’s in store – You’re in for quite the ride.

Pregnancy can bring about all kinds of strange cravings and uncomfortable symptoms, but it can also give you that ‘pregnancy glow’ that many mums-to-be are told they have.

Finding out what’s in store for pregnancy can help you feel less alarmed when you experience certain symptoms.

Plan your birth – Decide how and where you will be giving birth. Public or private? Would you like to have a waterbirth, or give birth at home? What will your birth plan be?

There are plenty of options to explore.

For a full checklist on things to do before the arrival of your baby, check out the before baby checklist on page 42 that will walk you through each trimester.

Get Educated Parenting education classes – Parenthood is very exciting, but there is so much to learn. Queensland Health runs various Parenthood Programs for first time parents and

Australian Multiple Birth Association – Expecting multiples?

The Australian Multiple Birth Association (AMBA) provides support on what to expect, information on common issues and useful information on raising multiple babies.

Visit www.amba.org.au

Antenatal Classes - The hospital you choose will have antenatal classes, and you can also do them at your community health centre. Here you will learn about the stages of labour, pain relief available to you, plus tips and tricks for your partner to help you during the birth of your baby.

Check out our list of handy helplines on page 38 and 39 for more details.

Birthing Options The public route – If you choose the public route, your first port of call is to see your general practitioner who will schedule your ultrasound scans and any other appointments you may need. They can also refer you for midwifery led care through the public system. You will give birth at your local public hospital (Sometimes you may be able to choose to give birth at home, but this needs to be discussed with your GP or midwives).

The private route – If you go down this route, you can choose to go direct to your local private hospital where the team will organise everything for your labour, pre and postnatal care and give you obstetricians to choose from.

Or you can visit your preferred obstetrician to kick things off. With either option, you will give birth at your local private hospital or home if you prefer (in some cases), but with the latter, you will visit your chosen obstetrician’s practice for your pre and postnatal care.

Doulas - With either route, you can also choose to engage the services of a qualified doula. A doula, also known as a labour coach, provides support for mothers before, during and after birth and can attend births at the public hospital, private hospital or at home.

Your Guide To Bump, Birth and Beyond

WHERE TO START

5

PREGNANCY STAGES - WHAT TO EXPECT Pregnancy is an exciting time, albeit a little overwhelming. During this time, your body will go through a lot of changes to prepare for your baby’s arrival. A typical pregnancy lasts 40 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period to the birth of your baby, and is split up into three trimesters. However, a pregnancy is considered full term at 37 weeks.

A missed period is usually the first sign that you may be pregnant. If you have your suspicions, it’s a good idea to take a pregnancy test, and your doctor can confirm your pregnancy via a blood test.

The First Trimester – 1 to 13 Weeks During the first trimester, hormonal changes will affect nearly every organ system of your body. They can trigger symptoms such as morning sickness, cravings for certain foods, mood swings, headaches, weight gain or loss or tender breasts. Fortunately for many women, these symptoms go away as pregnancy progresses.

During the first trimester, it’s important to make changes to your daily routine and lifestyle, such as going to bed earlier or eating smaller meals more frequently.

The Second Trimester – 14 to 26 Weeks During the second trimester, your abdomen will begin to expand and you will begin to feel your baby moving around.

However, as your body makes room for your growing baby, you may experience body aches in your back, abdomen, groin or thighs, and you may also notice stretch marks on your abdomen, thighs, buttocks and/or breasts.

You may also notice the skin around your nipples darkening, varicose veins, swelling on the ankles, fingers and face or itching on the abdomen, palms, and soles of the feet. All of this is completely normal, but if you are feeling increasingly unwell, consult your doctor.

The Third Trimester – 27 to 40 Weeks During the third trimester, some of the discomforts you experienced in your second trimester will continue.

You’ll also likely notice that you’re going to the bathroom more often and you may experience heartburn, shortness of breath and contractions (which may be a real or false sign of labour). This is all because the baby is growing bigger and putting more pressure on your organs – but don’t worry, your baby is fine and these problems will lessen once you’ve given birth.

As you come closer and closer to your due date, your cervix becomes thinner and softer, which will help the birth canal to open during the birthing process. Your doctor will check your progress with a vaginal exam as you get close to your due date. You’re on the home stretch now – the final countdown has begun!

The third trimester is when you will go into labour and give birth to your baby. Check out page 13 to learn about the stages of labour, along with some tips and tricks.

Some Things to Remember Foods to avoid. Some foods are not safe for you while you are pregnant, such as raw fish, soft cheeses (such as brie and camembert), raw or partially cooked eggs, liver products and alcohol.

Activities to avoid. Some activities are unsafe during pregnancy, such as going on rides, going in hot tubs or saunas, rigorous exercise and changing the kitty litter (cat faeces may carry the parasitic disease toxoplasmosis, which is rare but better to be safe than sorry).

Trimesters

PREGNANCY STAGES

7

6 TIPS TO SUPPORT YOUR PREGNANCY JOURNEY STORY Sara Williams No doubt, during your pregnancy you’ve heard or will hear all of the weird, wonderful, and maybe not so wonderful stories of pregnancy, labour and what it is like to have a newborn baby. It can be overwhelming, so we have put together a few tips to help you through and enjoy the journey.

1. When your little bundle arrives, you will be preoccupied with tiny fingers, toes, burps and mastering the art of swaddling. Pregnancy gives you the opportunity organise your new world and indulge in what you may struggle to find time for after delivery. Taking time out to visit family or a holiday destination will help you unwind and process the upcoming events, all while the logistics are slightly simpler. When prams, bassinets, baby bottles, sleeping and feeding times are thrown into the mix, holidays aren’t as regular as they used to be for some of us. Rest assured, you will find a way for baby to fit into the new lifestyle you choose for your family.

2. Spend time with those closest to you. Have girls’ nights, movie nights and go out to have fun with your birthingpartner while you can. Support one-another, share your excitement, fears and the vision you have for your child.

Remember, this is a life-changing journey for them too.

How can you support them? Do you both have a secondary support person to lean on? Tell your birthing-partner what you may need in the coming months. No one should feel alone in this time of their life, so seek someone to chat to. You can also find great resources and friendly team members to talk to at www.healthyfamilies.beyondblue. org.au/pregnancy-and-new-parents.

3. As your bump grows, so will the list of baby names and baby clothes. Scrolling through endless lists of baby names that start with A, E and T, shopping for the smallest little booties and beanies you’ve ever seen will bring joy to your journey. Research shows, nesting peaks in the third trimester, when you may feel the urge to sort, organise and unnecessarily clean your house from top to bottom with a toothbrush. Our hormones have a lot to answer for! Preparing the nursery may also set your mind at ease knowing the bassinet, change table and nursing chair are ready to go in case of an early arrival. Feeling creative?

Check out the adorable choices of baby décor in your local stores.

4. Easing the Ailments - There will be a time you’ll begin to notice the ailments of pregnancy. If you’re experiencing nausea, headaches or constipation - try drinking lots of water, eating a healthy diet and snacking frequently.

Remember, your body is growing another person, so eating

and sleeping the best you can - will make a big difference.

Light exercise such as yoga, swimming or a stroll down the beach can improve energy levels, sleep, help with the demands of labour, decrease pregnancy complications, stress, anxiety and depression. Chat to your doctor about what exercise is suitable for you – it may differ from your pre-pregnancy routine. Getting up from your chair regularly to move your body and maintaining a gentle stretch regime will also help ease common body aches. If you are experiencing painful cramping, bleeding, fluid leakage or a fever of 39 degrees or higher give your doctor a call.

5. Siblings - Bringing a sibling into your family can be an emotional transition. You are giving your first child (maybe more), a baby brother or sister to love, play with and care for. If you can, spend time with your older child - giving them your undivided attention, helping them feel secure and special with the upcoming changes in their life. They may not be able to comprehend exactly what is about to take place, but do your best to explain what you can and patiently answer their questions. A book about a new baby coming home can help them visualise what will take place.

6. Allow your child to choose a small gift for the baby as this will enable them to feel part of the process and share the excitement. Be wary about the amount of attention your baby will be getting from family, friends and yourself - it will take time for older siblings to adjust to the new dynamics of the family. You may experience feelings of guilt, but remember, they will adore having a new sibling to play with sooner or later. You may wish to have something special to give them, or do with them, when the time is right for being an amazing ‘big brother’, ‘or ‘big sister’. In some families the Dad or birthing partner will take on more responsibilities of the older children, especially if Mum is breastfeeding.

Try to mix it up where you can - as kids love one-on-one time with Mum. This time of your life brings excitement and a multitude of changes. Scheduling time just for you is just as important.

Do a meditation, go for a massage, read a book or try new hobbies. The dirty socks and jocks can wait and your loved ones will appreciate a well-rested Mum. Like they say, ‘You can’t pour from an empty cup.'

6 Tips to Support Your Journey

PREGNANCY TIPS

9

CAIRNS LOCAL HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE Ramsay Health (Cairns Private Hospital)

Dr Phoebe Hong

With a range of maternal care available, doctors and nurses at the private hospital can assist you before and during labour, making your delivery a safe and supported experience. Further useful information and classes are also available.

A specialist in obstetrics, gynaecology and laparoscopic procedures, Dr. Hong is one of the best when it comes to you and your baby’s health. She can help assist you with any worries or queries you have regarding your body and health during pregnancy.

P 4052 5200 A 1 Upward St www. cairnsprivate.com.au

P 4230 0030 A Level 2, Cairns Central Plaza, 58-62 McLeod St www.drphoebehong.com.au

Birds of Paradise Clinic

Apple Tree Medical

A collaboration of gynaecologists with a variety of clinics, the team provides care to women in Far North Queensland.

Here you can access both exceptional fertility and specialised antenatal share care.

With a registered midwife, doctors specialising in womens, mens, children and aged care health, Apple Tree Medical have your family covered in two great locations. Bulk billing is also available for children under 16 years of age.

P 4041 5081 A Various, visit website www.birdsofparadise.clinic

P Various, visit website A Cairns and Smithfiled www.appletreemedical.com.au

Wuchopperen Health Service Ltd.

Calanna Whole Health Pharmacy Woree

This primary health care provider has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders since the 1980’s. The focus is not just on physical health but also the social and emotional wellbeing of these families.

Your number one pharmacy for knowledge on both pharmaceutical treatment and natural health. Visit the Calanna team to discuss the best medicinal care for you and your family.

P 4080 1000 A Manoora, Edmonton, and Atherton www.wuchopperen.org.au

A Cairns, North Cairns, Woree, Edmonton, Innisfail and Atherton www.website.com.au

Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service

Balance! Edmonton Family Medical Practice

As a public Health Department, the CHHHS are able to provide comprehensive maternity and neonatal care for you while on your pregnancy journey. Visit their website to find the right centre or clinic for you.

Balance Family Medical services are dedicated to providing the best family healthcare that they can, through nurses, doctors and allied health professionals. To set up general healthcare for you and your baby, just give Balance! a call or pop in for a visit.

P Various, visit website A Various, visit website www.health.qld.gov.au

P 4055 4400 A 5 Walker Road, Edmonton www.balancehealthclinic.com.au

Cairns

HEALTH AND WELLNESS GUIDE

11

A NATURAL BIRTHING EXPERIENCE - WHAT TO EXPECT It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for; going into labour means your little bundle of joy is about to make their great entrance into the world. While exciting, the prospect of it all can be daunting to many mums-to-be. Thankfully there are many ways to cope with the pains and uncomfortable feelings that come with labour.

The First Stage – Dilation The first stage of labour is dilation, when the neck of the womb (cervix) opens to 10cm. This is about the size of the diameter of a bagel.

Before labour starts, your cervix is long and firm.

During the first hours of labour, it will begin to contract allowing the cervix to dilate. For first-time mums, this stage can last anywhere from six to 36 hours.

During this time, you’ll experience contractions. Some are quite mild, similar to period cramps, while others can be sharp and strong. When they first begin, they will last between 30-40 seconds and will be irregular. As your labour progresses the contractions will become longer and stronger with shorter breaks in between each contraction.

You may also experience a ‘show’; which is the discharge of a plug of mucus (but not all women do). It may be thick or pink. You may experience this a day before you go into labour, or even a week before. This indicates that the cervix is starting to open.

You may also experience your waters breaking. This means the amniotic sac around your baby is ruptured and your baby will be arriving very soon.

Things to Keep in Mind: There is no right or wrong order that these things happen.

Some women will experience their waters breaking first while others may feel contractions. It all depends on your body and your baby.

Your labour may be slower than expected. In this case, the midwife or doctor may speed up the labour by breaking your waters or giving you a drip with the birth hormone oxytocin to encourage contractions.

Induction is a possibility too. In some instances, your doctor may decide to induce labour. This means you will be admitted to hospital, given medication to help start labour and be monitored throughout your labour. This may happen if you have complications during your pregnancy or if your baby is overdue.

Many women have a caesarean section; which means bub is delivered through a surgical incision in the abdomen, rather than coming through the vaginal canal. Again, there are plenty of reasons for a c-section including pregnancy or labour complications. You may need an emergency c-section or a scheduled one, depending on your circumstance.

Tummy Talks brings you FREE online antenatal classes and pregnancy information. For childbirth education, breast feeding information, post-natal classes and answers to your pregnancy questions – www.tummytalks.com.au is an amazing website with resources and tools to help you on your pregnancy, labour and birthing journey.

Are you a birthing partner? Tune into Episode 21 of the PakMag Parents Podcast at www.pakmag.com.au with our special guest and generalist obstetrician gynaecologist, Dr Elizabeth Jackson, from Birds of Paradise Women’s Health Clinic. Join us to discuss exactly what is involved in being a support person, and how you can really be there for your loved one. Supporting a woman when she's giving birth is a big responsibility and can be quite nerve-racking if you've never done it before.

The First Stage

LABOUR

13

The Second Stage – Push!

When the cervix is fully dilated (10cm), the baby’s head will begin to move down. Then it’s time to start pushing to help baby pass through the birth canal. Normally baby’s head will come out first (called crowning), followed by the shoulders, body and legs.

The birth of your baby usually takes thirty minutes to an hour, but it may take longer or shorter depending on whether you’ve had pain relief such as an epidural, whether it’s your first baby or not and even what birthing position you’re in. Stay focused on the prize – a little baby to cuddle!

Once the baby has been delivered, the umbilical cord will be clamped and cut.

The Third Stage – The Placenta The third and final stage of labour is the delivery of the placenta. Breastfeeding is usually encouraged at this stage, as it’s beneficial to the baby and helps with the final stage of labour.

You can either deliver the placenta through gentle pushing, or the doctor or midwife can administer more oxytocin to help the uterus contract down to speed up delivery of the placenta.

It’s normal to lose some blood during the delivery process, and most women do. However, when there are large

volumes of blood lost, the doctor or midwife may need to manage this.

Tips If you think you could be in labour, relax and stay calm.

The best place to be for early labour is in the comfort of your own home. Aromatherapy, going for short walks, neck and shoulder massages and a warm wheat bag may help you feel more comfortable. When contractions become fairly regular, write down the time between each contraction; and when they are coming every five minutes, head to the hospital.

If you have any questions, ask. Labour is a big life event, and it’s normal to feel nervous or have questions. If you are worried about anything at all, feel free to call your hospital or midwife.

Pain relief. There are various pain relief options for childbirth, both medical and non-medical. Breathing techniques, close support from your partner (or a friend or family member), hot and cold packs, nitrous oxide and epidural anaesthesia may help.

Every labour is different. Every body is different, so while labour may last a long time for other mums, it may not for you. Not knowing how your labour will be can be hard, especially if you like to be in control, but this is all part of the fun. Before you know it, labour will be over and you’ll be relishing in those newborn snuggles.

Trauma can have a serious effect on our lives no matter who we are. But traumatic births can affect not only us but our baby too. In Episode 65 of the PakMag Parents Podcast, we chat to Catharine Ross who is an Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) expert about how mums can move on from birth trauma using matrix imprinting and the importance of EFT in these situations. Find the podcast at www.pakmag.com.au.

Pregnancy and childbirth can often cause a women's pelvic muscles to become very loose, and this can lead to incontinence. Incontinence refers to having little to no control over your bladder. Many women often feel embarrassed by this condition, but it's a lot more common than you might expect. Emily Davies a physiotherapist specialising in all things pelvic floor-related, will help you become a pro with your Pelvic Health – find out more in Episode 24 of the PakMag Parents Podcast at www.pakmag.com.au.

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LABOUR

The Second and Third Stages

TOWNSVILLE LOCAL HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE Baby & Me 3D

Coastal Kids Speech Pathology

Offering ultrasounds in 3D, 4D and 5D Realview.

With Realview imaging, your baby can be seen in incredible life-like colours with amazing clarity, allowing you to catch a better glimpse into your baby’s little world. 99.9 percent accurate gender determination at 8 weeks is also available.

Quality, evidence-based speech and language therapy for children and their families. Assessment and therapy for; speech delay, stuttering, language delay, phonological awareness and literacy. The service also assists Autistic children with social skills and communication development.

P 0417 847 965 A 102B Charters Towers Rd www.babyandme3d.com.au

P 0427 922 378 A 1/5-7 Martinez Avenue, West End www.coastalkidsspeech.com.au

Townsville Paediatrics

Helping Hands - Hand, Wrist and Arm Clinic

Bring your children in for quality healthcare and information.

From infants to adolescents, any of your queries will be met with a range of knowledge and expertise by the dedicated team at Townsville Paediatrics.

This clinic will help when it comes to improving any wrist or arm injuries you get that make it difficult to hold your little one. This includes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – often a result of holding our babies as often as we do!

P 4427 5817 A Oxford Medical Suites, 4/18 Oxford Street www.townsvillepaediatrics.com.au

P 4755 2337 A 38 Fulham Rd, Pimlico www.helpinghandsclinic.com.au

Townsville University Hospital

1300 SMILES

The team here understand how exciting it can be to prepare for, and welcome, a new baby into your world. They provide excellent care and understand the importance of choice during pregnancy and birth. A diverse range of care options for women and their families are available.

Keep those pearly whites beautiful by continuing with your oral health during and after pregnancy. You can also give your child the beautiful smile they deserve with help from the friendly and dedicated team at 1300Smiles. Talk to us about $1,000 FREE Dental for kids*.

P 4433 1111 - General Enquiries 4433 2779 - Birth Centre A 100 Angus Smith Dr, Douglas www.townsville.health.qld.gov.au

P 4771 2733 A 361 Flinders St, Townsville City www.1300smiles.com.au

NExt Osteo and Rehab

Nourished Lactation Consultancy

Visiting the team at NEXT is worth it, as they can help you ease back into exercise and give your body some relief after giving birth. Through remedial massage, exercise physiology and more, they offer a holistic approach to health. Pregnancy care is also available.

It’s not always easy to breastfeed your baby or get them to sleep and settle. The first 3 months of your baby's life can be particularly challenging with periods of unsettledness.

They help mothers and babies with comprehensive and personal support via home visits or tele-health appointments.

P 0450 062 223 A 129 Thuringowa Dr, Kirwan www.nextosteorehab.com.au

P 0417 640 045 www.nourishedlactation consultancy.com.au

Townsville

HEALTH AND WELLNESS GUIDE

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5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT FEEDING YOUR BABY STORY Sara Williams Many questions may arise as you begin to feed your new baby. Every mother and baby have different needs and requirements, making it important to consult your doctor throughout this period when you are making changes or encounter any issues. This article provides helpful resources and information relating to common feeding queries mothers may have.

1. Breastfeeding Particularly for first time mums, seek advice where you can while you’re learning to breastfeed. For some mothers and babies, it comes easily, while others may have difficulties along the way. After the birth of your baby - a midwife or lactation consultant will introduce you to breastfeeding.

When you return home, you will see a midwife or child health nurse to check how you and baby are going.

They can provide you with further feeding tips, answer your questions and will check baby’s weight to ensure they are drinking enough. In the beginning you can expect to feed around 7-12 times over 24 hours and to change at least six wet nappies and one dirty nappy.

2. Engorgement Your milk ‘comes in’ between day two and five after delivery and your breasts will feel fuller and yes, more uncomfortable. This is a normal part of the process but when you are in pain, your breasts are hard, and baby is struggling to feed, this is called engorgement. Try to treat it early. The Australian Breastfeeding Association recommends gently massaging your breast to soften the tissue and use a warm cloth to help trigger your ‘let down’ reflex. Tummytalks.com.au suggests feeding “your baby frequently 2-3 hourly, don't limit baby's time at the breast.

Check baby is positioned and attached correctly to ensure the breast is draining well during the feed. It may be helpful to take your bra off to feed. A warm shower can help relieve some pressure just before feeding.”

You can also try expressing some milk to make it easier for baby to attach. Have a breast-pump ready to go before birth and learn how to use it. You don’t want to wake at 3:00am with rock-hard boobs, a hungry baby and attempt to assemble your new milking machine.

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FEEDING YOUR BABY

5 Things To Know

For additional relief in between feeds, use cold compresses for 15-20 minutes.

3. Tips Nipple cream and nipple shields will help with the pain (which will eventually ease), while breast pads are handy for leakage protection. If you want to use a dummy / pacifier, Queensland Health (www.health.qld.gov.au/qcg) recommends ‘waiting until breastfeeding is established – usually by 4 weeks.’ Also avoid bottles in the early days if you can too, as this might cause “nipple confusion.”

For everything breastfeeding related the Australian Breastfeeding Association has you covered at www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bfinfo Or you can call their helpline on 1800 686 268 to speak to trained volunteer mothers who can help with your concerns 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For a step-by-step guide to helping with your baby’s attachment visit www.thewomens.org.au/ health-information/breastfeeding/breastfeedingoverview/how-to-breastfeed

4. Bottle-feeding If you’re unable to breastfeed or are mixed feeding, there are a range of infant formulas to choose from.

All Australian approved formulas provide babies with the nutrition they need but special or soy-based formula is only recommended for medical reasons. Speak to your

doctor or health nurse about what is suitable for your little one. Also avoid giving your baby cow’s milk before 12 months of age as their stomachs are unable to break it down.

How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk? You can use the supply on demand technique. The Queensland Government Health Department recommends the following as a guideline: • 5 days to 3 months old: 150mL per kilogram of body weight each day.

• 3 to 6 months old: 120mL per kilogram of body weight each day.

• 6 to 12 months old: 100mL per kilogram of body weight each day. Babies at this age also eat complementary foods.

5. Colic

The cause is unknown, but the following are Potential Causes: Diet. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, onion, cow’s milk and chocolate in the mother’s diet can cause colic in breast-fed babies.

Caffeinated drinks. Your baby is unable to breakdown caffeine, causing them pain and irritability.

Formula. Some babies may have an allergy to cow’s milk proteins.

Immature digestive system. Milk may digest too quickly and not completely break down causing abdominal pain.

If your baby is showing symptoms of colic, see your GP to determine whether there is an underlying health issue, or if it is in fact colic. You can also discuss yours and baby’s nutritional needs if you are considering making any changes.

Comfort

Colic affects around one in three babies, usually between the ages of two weeks and 16 weeks. The good news is babies usually outgrow colic around the age of three to four months old. Symptoms of colic include unexplained and regular daily crying. Bouts of crying may last for three hours or more, and happen typically late afternoon or early evening. It’s difficult or impossible to settle with regular soothing techniques. Their faces may redden and appear to experience pain in their abdomen, pulling their legs up to their chest or arching their back. They may also frantically look to feed, only to reject the milk as soon as they start sucking. You may also see an increase in bowel movements.

For tips on comforting a colicky baby and reducing your stress during what can be a difficult time, visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/Healthy Living/colic Soon enough you will find your rhythm with the new addition to your family. Feeding time is a beautiful bonding experience that will be over before you know it.

You will exhange smiles while gazing down at their button nose and their soft hand wraps around your finger or explores the features of your face. Take a breath and treasure the moment.

For helpful advice on breastfeeding, tune into episode 79 of the PakMag Parents Podcast with Midwife Cath sharing the dos and don’ts of breastfeeding. Cath Curtain has delivered thousands of babies throughout her 45-year career. Find out more about Cath, book a consultation (available over phone and skype) at www.midwifecathsvillage.com.au.

5 Things to Know

FEEDING YOUR BABY

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9 TIPS FOR THE FOURTH TRIMESTER We all know the three trimesters of pregnancy. But did you know that once bub is earth-side, you’ve got one more trimester to look forward to? Known as the fourth trimester, it’s the best trimester of all. It doesn’t involve a lot of sleep, but it does involve plenty of baby snuggles.

What is the 4th Trimester?

The 4th trimester is the first three months of a baby’s life.

It’s a time for mum to rest and recover (any chance she gets), a time for baby to get used to this new world and a time for parents to get to know their new bundle of joy.

Not everyone has heard of it, but every mother and her newborn baby will go through it. It’s a time for baby to adjust to life outside the womb, and for mum to get used to her new life as a mum.

The 4th trimester can be incredibly hard. Take it from a mum with a colicky baby who spent hours pacing the house at all times of the night trying to soothe her. It was stressful, it was exhausting and it was heartbreaking.

You may feel like you’re failing your baby (you’re not) and that you’re not cut out for this (you are)... but never lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel. It’s always important to remember that this challenging fourth trimester, when all your baby wants is you, does end.

9 Tips To Help You Cope 1. Slow down – You only have one job now – to take care of yourself and your baby. Don’t worry about the dishes, or the laundry. Instead, enjoy the slower pace.

2. Let yourself recover - Sleep when you can, rest when you can’t sleep and focus on keeping yourself well.

3. Ask for help – Everyone needs a break, including you.

Accept help from those around you, whether it’s an invitation to hold the baby so you can sleep, look after your other children, do the dishes, making a casserole for the freezer or doing a load of laundry and putting away.

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4TH TRIMESTER

The First Three Months After Birth

4. Mimic the womb - Play white noise to mimic the sounds she’s used to in the womb, swaddle, baby wear and rock/ bounce your baby. All of these things help her make the transition from womb to world a little easier.

5. Skin to skin contact – While skin to skin contact is encouraged right after birth, this type of contact should continue long after the day your little one enters the world.

You are what’s familiar to them in this transitional period.

6. Take a bath – Not only is having a bath a relaxing experience for mum, it’s also a comforting experience for newborns. Being in the water mimics being in the womb, and it’s a great way to bond through talking and singing.

7. Give yourself a break every day - Shower, have a cup of tea or lie in a bed without anyone touching you. Clear your mind, let your body relax and remind yourself that you’re doing everything right, even if, some days, it doesn’t feel like it.

8. See if from your baby’s perspective – For nine months all they’ve known is the womb where they could suck, sleep and snuggle to their heart’s content. The one thing that is familiar to them in this new world is you. Your voice, your heart beat, your touch, your smell.

9. You are your baby’s everything. Yes, this can be overwhelming, but it’s also such a special time for the both of you. Cuddle them, feed them, take in their itty-bitty baby toes and delicious baby smell and accept that, for now, your only job is to be there for them. Before you know it, they’ll be running around, making friends, starting school and entering adolescence – so enjoy it while it lasts.

MACKAY & SURROUNDS LOCAL HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE Mackay Women's Centre

Mackay Radiology

Enhancing the lives of women living in Mackay and the surrounding areas through programmes, assistance and donations to those who are struggling. Counselling on pregnancy and free pregnancy tests are just some of the services offered, along with practical and emotional support.

As a leading provider of medical imaging in both Australia and New Zealand, Mackay Radiology ensures quality, state of the art patient care, access and service. The perfect place for all your pregnancy ultrasound needs.

P 4953 1788 A 418 Shakespeare St www.mackaywomenscentre.org.au

P 4942 5222 A 6 Heaths Rd, North Mackay www.scr.com.au

Nourished Lactation Consultancy

NG Gyne Health

It’s not always easy to breastfeed your baby or get them to sleep and settle. The first 3 months of your baby's life can be particularly challenging with periods of unsettledness.

They help mothers and babies with comprehensive and personal support via home visits or tele-health appointments.

NG Gyne Health provides excellent care for mothers during their pregnancy journey, including before and after birth, gynaecology, obstetrics and fertility. Midwife services are also available. Experience personalised care in a relaxed environment.

P 0417 640 045 www.nourishedlactation consultancy.com.au

P 4942 1199 A Suite 28,

Mater Medical Centre www.nggynehealth.com.au

Mater Hospital

Gasworks Guardian Pharmacy

Within their clinical and pastoral approach, Mater Hospital Mackay delivers maternity and neonatal services; an important part of all pregnancies. With dedicated staff, you can be sure to receive compassionate and holistic healthcare services.

This pharmacy is perfect for providing families with care, trust and information when it comes to solutions for health issues. Visit the team for sound advice on how to best take care of not only your children but yourself as well.

P 4965 5666 A 76 Willetts Rd, Mackay www.mater.org.au

P 4957 5522 A 137 Shakespeare St www.guardianpharmacies.com.au

Northern Queensland Primary Health Network

1300 SMILES

The NQPHN works hard to improve the health and wellbeing of people in North Queensland. They ensure access to primary and preventative healthcare services that respond to individual and community needs, to help you live happier, healthier and longer lives.

Keep those pearly whites beautiful by continuing with your oral health during and after pregnancy. You can also give your child the beautiful smile they deserve with help from the friendly and dedicated team at 1300Smiles. Talk to us about $1,000 FREE Dental for kids*.

P 4963 4400 A Post Office Square,

67-69 Sydney St www.nqphn.com.au

P 1300 764 537 A 34 Sydney St www.1300smiles.com.au

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EASY OUTINGS FOR YOU & YOUR LITTLE ONE - CAIRNS PRAM FRIENDLY DINING & CAFÉ’S Cazalys – Cazalys is a great indoor option, lots of food, coffee, cake and drink options in air-conditioned comfort.

There is a Kids Club House with a playground and video games for older kids.

344 Mulgrave Rd · www.cazalys.com.au Muddy’s Café – Situated right next to the famous and fabulous Muddy’s Playground on The Esplanade, this is a fantastic option for a playdate or a sunny afternoon out.

147 Esplanade, Cairns City · www.muddyscafe.com The Pier – There are plenty of great restaurants and coffee shops at The Pier, either in airconditioned comfort or outside with a soft ocean breeze. Park underneath the centre in all-weather to stay dry.

1 Pierpoint Rd, Cairns City · www.thepiercairns.com.au South Cairns Sports Club – With a Kid’s Club House, coffee shop, restaurant and more, there is something for the whole family. Located at 57-59 Robert Rd, Bentley Park. www.southcairnssportsclub.com.au Thirsty Flamingo – Poolside Bar and Dining – Perfect for a relaxing time with the kids, whether swimming in the pool, eating from the special kid’s menu or playing in the

toddlers’ play area or playground. Cairns Colonial Club Resort · 18-26 Cannon St. www.cairnscolonialclub.com.au Brothers Leagues Club Cairns – Is pram friendly and offers a special children’s playroom located right beside the restaurant. The playroom is an enclosed space equipped with an outdoor playground, gaming consoles, arts and crafts tables and children’s DVD viewing area.

99-107 Anderson St, Manunda · www.brotherscairns.com.au Aqua Café – is situated next to The Lagoon, offering yummy snacks, sandwiches, drinks and icy poles. Accompany your outing with a walk along The Esplanade or a swim in The Lagoon. %f AQUA Cairns Lagoon Wharf One Café – Offers high chairs, a kids’ menu, great food and is situated right next to the Fig Tree playground with gorgeous views of the Trinity Inlet. Wharf Street on Trinity Wharf. www. wharfonecafe.com.au Reveille Coffee – Catch up with friends or family over a cuppa. You can get a babycino with a cookie or milk for just $1.00 with any hot drink purchase. Mount Sheridan Plaza.

Facebook: Revielle Coffee

PARENTS ROOM AND CHANGE TABLE LOCATIONS Cairns Central Shopping Centre • Parent's room on Level 1 near the Food Court • Parent's room located on the ground floor towards Myer near Pandora Stockland Shopping Centre

Coles side of shopping centre, next to Williams • Parent’s room located in Food Court near Ali Babba’s Kebabs • Baby changing station located in bathrooms near Woolworths

• Parent’s room located in bathrooms behind Centre Stage

• Baby changing station located near Lone Star Rib House

• Parent’s room located in Food Court bathrooms near Muffin Break

DFO Cairns

• Quiet room located behind their Inclusive Indoor Playground, located at Centre Court between Target and JB Hi-Fi

• Parent’s room located in food court • Parent’s room located in DFOOD Mount Sheridan Plaza

Smithfield Shopping Centre

• Parent’s room located at the Kmart end of the centre

• Baby changing station located in bathrooms on

• Parent’s room located at the Coles end of the centre

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EASY OUTINGS FOR YOU & YOUR LITTLE ONE - TOWNSVILLE PRAM FRIENDLY DINING & CAFÉ’S Chipmunks Playland & Café - Run, jump, slide and climb, childhood adventures begin at Chipmunks. Where kids aged 0 – 11 can be kids, burn energy and have fun for hours.

1-3 Woodman Court, West End · www.chipmunks.com.au

Bohle Barn – Can provide highchairs and has changing tables in restrooms, along with an indoor play area and gaming consoles. Bruce Highway, (cnr Shaw Rd), Bohle. www.bohlebarn.com.au

Cowboys Leagues Club – Has an exciting kid’s club area called Little Legends. With fantastic food and lively atmosphere, it’s a wonderful place to meet up with friends for morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea or dinner. 335 Flinders Mall, Townsville · www.cowboysleagues.com.au

Commonwealth Hotel – Kids will find everything they could want here, from the pool to the giant playground including baby and nest swings, and more. Highchairs are available. 44-46 Allen St, South Townsville · Facebook: The Commonwealth Hotel Townsville

Townsville RSL – Runs their Cadets Kids Club for children 3 - 13 years on Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights from 5.00pm – 10.00pm, with a range of activities, movies, games and video games. With heaps of room to move around with your pram in air-conditioned comfort, Townsville RSL is the place to be for a bite to eat and a fun outing all in one. 139 Charters Towers Rd, Hermit Park. www.townsvillersl.com.au

Juliette’s –with two locations for you to enjoy their tasty treats on The Strand. Whether you’d like a meal or a tasty gelato (which are available in kiddies sizes) – they’ll have your tastebuds dancing. A perfect spot for you to go for a walk or play when the family is finished. www.juliettes.com.au

Grill’d - Another great option for the family, because who doesn’t love a good burger? They have two children’s menus to suit younger and older kids and are in two great locations in Fairfield Central, Shop T33, 2-30 Lakeside Dr, Idalia and 3 Palmer St, Townsville.

Bunnings Warehouse – Bunnings has high chairs, colouring in, a playground and, on weekends Kids D.I.Y Workshops which inspire creativity. Garbutt, Burdell and Idalia.

Booyah Bean Team – Townsville – Conveniently located at the Thuringowa Library, for you to enjoy a hot cuppa and a book. Kids will be happy to play and explore the books and toys, or you can get a take away coffee and head to Dan Gleeson Park. 86 Thuringowa Dr, Kirwan · Facebook: Booyah Bean Team - Townsville Brother’s Leagues Club – Highchairs are available as well as a delicious kid’s menu and a dedicated play area and Kids Club with colouring in, movies, video games and an arcade. Kids Eat Free every Monday and Tuesday with any main meal purchase over $20.00. Conditions apply.

14 Golf Links Dr, Kirwan · www.brotherstsv.com.au

Coffee at Tiffany’s - A great family and pet-friendly café, perfect for catching up with other mums. Enjoy a cuppa, a delicious breakfast, brunch or lunch.

257 Charters Towers Rd · Facebook: Coffee at Tiffany’s CastleTown Shoppingworld – with plenty of dining options as well as their great toddler and parents activity park called PlayTown, it’s the perfect location for an outing for you and your little one. PlayTown provides inquisitive children under the age of six, opportunities to explore and re-imagine the outdoors of iconic Townsville, indoors.

Cnr Woolcock St and Kings Rd, Hyde Park. www.castletown.com.au Stockland Shopping Centre Townsville - The My Funland play area is located in the Food Court and allows you to catch up with friends or family in a cool environment while you watch your kids have a great time. 310-330 Ross River Road, Aitkenvale · www.stockland.com.au Fairfield Shopping Centre – has dedicated pram parking bays available for your convenience as well as Fairfield Play - their new play space, located in front of Coles. The unique wooden, Australiana themed play space, equipped with books and puzzle walls will keep your little ones entertained. 2-30 Lakeside Dr · www.fairfieldcentral.com.au

PARENT ROOM AND CHANGE TABLE LOCATIONS Castletown Shoppingworld Parent's Room

Stockland Shopping Centre Parent's Room

• Parent’s room at the restrooms near the Food Court

• Parent’s room in restrooms in the Food Court

• Parent’s room located at The Reject Shop

• Parent’s room located by Main Corridor Amenities

Fairfield Shopping Centre Parent's Room

Willows Shopping Centre Parent's Room

• Parent’s room located in the amenities corridor closest to Woolworths

• Parent’s room located in restrooms behind Casphone IT Repairs

• Parent’s room located in the amentities corridor next to Coles

• Parent’s room located in restrooms in food court near Hungry Jacks

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EASY OUTINGS FOR YOU & YOUR LITTLE ONE - MACKAY PRAM FRIENDLY DINING & CAFÉS Porters Mitre 10 – Have a great café with wonderful lunch, morning tea, and afternoon tea options, plus there is a little play area, and plenty of things to buy whether it’s a gift or to improve your home. Cnr Brisbane &, Gordon St, Mackay. www.porterscando.com.au/mackay Third Ground Coffee House – Want to guarantee a good start to the day? Why not get breakfast and a coffee at Third Ground Coffee House in Sarina? Delicious (and healthy!) sandwiches, pastries, drinks, and more can be found on the menu – there’s something there for everyone.

28 Central St, Sarina · www.thirdground.org Pancake Bliss at Bluewater Lagoon - What’s better than a sweet treat after a refreshing splash around in the Bluewater Lagoon? Pancake Bliss offers a wide array of different pancakes and other popular cafe foods. There is a kid’s menu featuring various sweet pancakes to satisfy your little one. River St, Mackay · Facebook: Bluewater Lagoon & Pancake Bliss Botanic Gardens Cafe - If you enjoy being surrounded by nature, what better way to have brunch than at the Mackay Botanic Gardens? The Botanic Gardens Cafe serves up

meals that are simple yet elegant, and will be sure to satisfy your hunger. 9 Lagoon St, West Mackay. www.mackayregionalbotanicgardens.com.au/cafe Souths Leagues Club Mackay - If you’re looking for a fun night out to dinner with the family, Souths Leagues Club Mackay has lots to offer including highchairs. The ‘Kid’s Zone’ is a supervised playroom adjacent to the bistro, suitable for ages 2.5 all the way up until 14 and complete with complimentary child-minding service. Top it all off with the delicious kids’ menu and you’ve got the perfect family outing. 181 Milton St, Mackay · www.southsmackay.com.au Magpies Sporting Club Mackay – Magpies has everything a parent could wish for with a stress-free meal out with the family. Exciting things await inside The Nest Kids Room, including an outdoor playground, four Playstations, a huge range of games and movies, toys, and much more.

Attendants are there to supervise during selected times.

Head on down for Mums & Bubs at the hub from 9.0011.00am every Tuesday for activities, $1.00 babycinos and $5.00 coffee and cake. 1 Glenella Road, Mackay. www.magpiesmackay.com.au

PARENT ROOM AND CHANGE TABLE LOCATIONS Caneland Shopping Centre Parent's Room • Parent’s room located near the toilet facilities in the Food Court on Level 1 • Parent’s room located on the Ground Floor near Colette Accessories

• Parent’s room located on the Ground Floor behind Donut King Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre Parent's Room • Parent’s room located in the Food Court • Parent’s room located in the corridor behind Nextra

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8 THINGS NEW PARENTS NEED TO KNOW

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1. SAFE SWADDLING TIPS Swaddling is an excellent way to provide baby with a safe and secure sleep. It mimics the womb and controls the startle reflex, which often will wake baby up. However, there are a few important things to consider before swaddling your infant: • To swaddle correctly, wrap arms snug, straight at the side, but let the hips be loose and flexed.

• Use a specially designed swaddle blanket. These come with full instructions and fasteners to keep baby secure and safe.

• Swaddling is only for babies sleeping on their backs. Never ever put a swaddled baby down on their stomach.

• Don’t swaddle when awake. Babies only need to be swaddled during fussy periods and when it's time for sleep.

• Once baby is rolling over or resisting the swaddle and wanting arms out, it’s time to transition to a baby sleeping bag.

2. NINE TIPS TO BREASTFEED YOUR BABY 1. Accept that breastfeeding is hard for many new mums

6. Have plenty of water handy

Yes, breastfeeding is natural but it doesn’t come naturally.

Breastfeeding is a learned skill for both you and your baby.

Breastfeeding can make you incredibly thirsty and hungry.

Have a water bottle close by (and some snacks too).

2. Focus on the latch

7. Invest in the right supplies

If baby isn’t latching correctly, it can lead to pain and frustration. You want baby's lips to be like big fishy lips on the breast, not tucked under.

You’ll need nipple cream and possibly nipple shields, breast pads, a breast pump, bottles and a breast-feeding pillow.

3. Find a position that works for you and bub

After a feed, it’s normal for babies to spit up. Have a towel handy for excess spills to make it more comfortable for you and baby. If you are concerned your baby is vomiting, speak to your doctor and try to take note of how often it's happening and how much milk is coming back up.

For many new mums, the football hold is the most comfortable. Try different positions to find one that feels most natural.

4. Keep a hair tie on your wrist If baby happens to only want one breast per feed, you can keep track of which breast is up next with alternating a hair tie.

5. Prepare to become a full-time milk machine Most new mums will spend the majority of those first days feeding bub (or expressing your engorged breasts).

8. Prepare for excess milk

9. Relax If you’re used to a fast-paced lifestyle, then spending eight hours (or more) a day sitting down breastfeeding may be a tough adjustment. Don’t fight it; let your body and mind slow down. Remember, there is nowhere in the world you need to be than right here, feeding your new baby. Once baby latches, take a deep breath and relax.

3. NAPPY TIPS Know your nappies - Every brand of disposable and reusable nappy is slightly different in size, shape and contour. What's the best way to know which brand is right for your baby? Test them out. Nappies should fit snuggly around the waist and legs without being too tight.

Stay stocked - Prepare for the inevitable poonami with all your ‘essentials’ ready to go, especially when out and about.

Make sure that you restock your nappy bag before you go with the following: • A spare change of clothes (or two) • Nappy cream • A hand towel or wash towel

• Nappies

• Baby wipes

• Nappy bin bags

Aim to change often - During those first few weeks, your newborn will probably go through eight to 12 nappies a day.

Some will be dirty, others just wet. It’s important to change bub often (after every feed or poop) even during the nights.

This keeps baby’s skin clean and bacteria-free.

Hot tip - Always have a clean nappy under the one you are taking off to avoid accidents.

Your Baby Poop Colour Code Guide Baby poo is a strange thing. It can vary depending on your feeding choice and bub’s development. The first poo, known as meconium will be thick, brown and tar-like.

Breastfed babies will generally have yellow or yellow-green soft, seedy poo. Formula fed babies’ poo may be thicker, firmer and browner. In general, yellow, brown and green poo is normal in infants. But bloody, black or white poo may indicate a health problem.

Swaddling, Breastfeeding and Nappy Tips

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4. TRY THE GLASS RASH TEST There are a number of reasons why your infant might have a rash. It could be something common like heat rash, or it could be something serious like meningococcal which is considered a medical emergency.

To determine if your baby’s rash does require immediate medical treatment, try the glass test.

One sign of meningococcal is that the rash doesn’t fade when pressure is applied against the skin.

1. Press the side of a clear drinking glass firmly against baby’s skin.

2. Check to see if the spot or rash fades from this pressure.

3. If your baby has a fever and the spots or rash are not fading under pressure, then seek medical help immediately.

Baby may also display other symptoms such as a fever, high moaning cry, refusing to eat, being difficult to wake or bruising.

5. HOW TO CHECK IF YOUR BABY IS TONGUE-TIED

6. DECODING BABY COUGHS

This condition affects four to 11 percent of newborns and occurs when the thin membrane under baby’s tongue restricts the movement of the tongue. The most common sign that your baby could have tongue-tie is problems breastfeeding. Here’s what to look for:

Babies under four months of age rarely cough.

If they do, it could be one of these conditions:

1. Nipple pain and damage. Keep in mind this can be caused by a number of things, including a poor latch.

Croup – a barking cough.

2. Flattened nipple after breastfeeding.

You may see a compression mark on your nipple.

3. Bub is constantly fussing at the breast.

Common cold or flu – a dry hack cough accompanied by stuffy nose, slight fever and mucus.

Pneumonia – a wet or phlegmy cough accompanied by sleepiness and a green or yellow mucus discharge.

Bronchiolitis – a wheezing cough accompanied by noisy breathing, slight fever and loss of appetite.

5. The tip of baby’s tongue is heart-shaped.

Whooping cough – a loud, rapid cough accompanied by bulging eyes, face discolouration and tongue sticking out.

Seek medical help immediately.

If you notice any of the above symptoms, bring them up with your doctor who can make an accurate diagnosis.

Foreign object – a small, persistent cough accompanied by gasping or wheezing - seek medical help immediately.

7. COMMON COLDS

8. FEVERS - WHEN TO CALL A DOCTOR

Nine tips for easing common cold symptoms in infants:

Seeing your baby’s temperature spike is scary to say the least. Knowing what to do and when to seek help is so important, for your baby’s health and your peace of mind.

4. Bub is failing to gain weight well.

1. Try saline drops or a nasal suctioning device to help remove mucus from baby’s nose.

2. Use a steam vaporiser to help stuffy noses and coughs.

3. Try paracetamol to treat mild fevers, and or Children’s Cold & Cough tissue salts from the pharmacy.

4. Run a warm bath for you and baby.

5. Offer skin to skin contact and lots of cuddles.

6. Give plenty of extra fluid (breastfeeds or bottlefeeds).

7. Put Euky Bearub on babies socks.

If your baby is under 3 months and is experiencing any fever 38 degrees or higher - see a doctor straight away.

If your baby is over 3 months and is experiencing any fever 38 degrees or higher for over 24 – 48 hours or is acting unwell - please seek medical attention. They may only need observation or may need investigations, but either way, it is better to be safe and see a doctor.

Your baby can have what is called a Febrile Seizure if their temperature gets too high. It’s scary for parents, but remain calm, and contact medical professionals.

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8. Serve easy to swallow foods. Babies often don’t want to eat because their throat is sore.

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Click the play button in the online magazine to watch our helpful videos or head to our YouTube channel PakMagTV to view.

Rash Test, Tongue-tie, Baby Coughs, Colds and Fevers

SURVIVING THE SLOBBER OF TEETHING STORY Monique Saggers Your baby’s first teeth are a big ‘smilestone’ for both you and your baby. When they first show off that big toothy grin, you won’t be able to help but smile back as this joyful moment is one you will treasure forever.

Babies are born with a full set of 20 teeth, but these pearly whites usually won’t start to show until five to six months of age. For some, they may start appearing from as early as three months to as late as twelve months of age.

Your baby’s lower front teeth will be the first to come through, followed by the upper front teeth, one to two months after.

• Feed them cold foods like fruit purees or yoghurts straight from the fridge. You can also give them a sugar free rusk to gnaw on.

There are many telling signs that your little one is teething and these are a few of the most common ones:

• Infant paracetamol and nurofen may also help ease baby’s discomfort. Check the dosage information on the packet and if you’re unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Biting – Your little one is biting and chewing on anything they can get a hold of, including toys, fists and fingers.

Swollen gums – Your little one may have red swollen gums and flushed cheeks.

Irritability – Teething babies may seem crankier and more restless during this time.

Drooling – It’s extremely common for teething bubs to drool excessively as it is believed to help cool their inflamed gums. Be sure to wipe away excess saliva from the face as this may turn into a rash if not treated.

Grabbing – Babies may grab at their ears or rub their cheeks as a response to the discomfort.

Feeding – Your little one may not be as hungry as usual or may have trouble feeding.

Teething can be an arduous time for both bub and parent.

You hate to see your baby in pain and sadly teething is a time where you just have to wait it through as there is no instant cure, just time.

To help get you through this period, here are some helpful tips that can be used to try to ease their pain (and yours): • Let them chew on something cold like a clean, wet cloth.

Teething rings may work wonders, and these can be chilled or frozen.

• Rub a small amount of teething gel on your little one’s gum to numb the area for 20 minutes and reduce the inflammation (Please note: do not use around feeding time as this can be a choking hazard for your child).

The care of your baby’s teeth starts the moment they start teething. Start wiping your little one’s gums with a damp clean cloth once a day to reduce food and liquid build up.

When your baby’s first teeth pop up, try not to put them to bed with a bottle as formula can pool in their mouth at night which can later lead to tooth decay.

Make brushing your baby’s teeth a fun part of their nightly routine to help support a healthy dental hygiene practice in the future. Using a soft baby toothbrush with a smear of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice, lightly brush their teeth at least once a day, slowly building up to twice a day by their second birthday. By the age of three, your child should have or be close to having their full set of primary teeth.

When those pearly whites start to shine through, it’s time for your little one’s first visit to the dentist. Their first visit will likely consist of the dentist taking their medical history and discussing teething, brushing techniques, prevention of decay and nutritional advice. When your little one’s first tooth starts to show, ring your local 1300SMILES location to organise an appointment.

Teething can be painful; however, your baby shouldn’t be experiencing a substantial amount of pain. If your baby has signs of teething, but also appears to be in a lot of pain or is crying inconsolably, please see your doctor.

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TACKLING TODDLER TANTRUMS Parents all around the world are all-too familiar with the ‘terrible twos,’ but ask any parent and they’ll tell you it carries on into the treacherous threes, frightening fours and so on.

Tantrums are a normal part of growing up and come in all shapes and sizes. They can involve explosions of anger, disorganised behaviour and frustration. During a tantrum, you might see your child crying, screaming, kicking, falling down or flailing about; and they can be triggered by multiple situations or discomforts. Some children have them often and some have them rarely.

Why do Tantrums Happen?

The short answer is that tantrums happen because your child’s brain is developing and they are learning to deal with ‘big’ emotions. It’s usually at this age where they want more independence and control over their environment.

Until their cortex, the reasoning and thinking part of their brain is developed, children express big emotions in the form of a tantrum. It often means they’re frustrated or being misunderstood because they are still too young to regulate their emotions and may lack the words to tell their parents how they’re feeling.

Some triggers that may spark a tantrum include being tired, hungry, overstimulated or stressed. Young children experiencing tantrums need reassurance and nurturing from adults as they learn to manage these feelings on their own.

Can Tantrums be Prevented?

Reduce triggers – tantrums may be prevented by reducing stress, tuning into your child’s feelings and identifying tantrum triggers and reducing them.

Communication skills – Encourage your child to point at what is upsetting them if your child lacks the communication skills to explain what has frustrated them. To help them develop these skills, talk and read with them as much as possible to help with speech and communication skills.

Reward good behaviour – Encourage your child to use words to express their wants and needs and reward good behaviour.

What to do When your Child Throws a Tantrum Sometimes even when you try your best to prevent them,

tantrums still happen, and that is okay – it’s all a part of growing up. Here are some tips for handling tantrums.

Stay calm – or at least, pretend to. Take a moment to calm down if you feel yourself getting angry. Model the behaviour that you want your child to display.

Acknowledge their feelings – Calmly acknowledge what they’re feeling. For instance, you can say “it’s upsetting when you drop your snack, isn’t it?”. This can help your child understand what they’re feeling, and it may stop the behaviour from getting out of control.

Use distraction – Distraction may work better for younger children because they have shorter attention spans.

Don’t give in – Avoid giving in to your child’s demands.

If they are throwing a tantrum because you’ve refused to buy them something at the store, don’t buy it for them to calm them down. This may teach the child that their tantrum is being rewarded. If you give in every time and sometimes don’t, this could make the problem worse.

Reassurance – Stay close to your child while they’re having the tantrum and reassure them that they’re okay and that you love them.

Keep them safe – Some children will hold their breath, run away or break things during a tantrum. If this is the case, take them to a safe place until the tantrum has passed.

When to Call Your Doctor Call your doctor if the tantrums cause a lot of bad feelings between you and your child, they become more frequent or last longer, your child often hurts themselves or others or your child seems very disagreeable and hardly ever cooperates. Sometimes problems with hearing, vision, language delays or a learning disability can make a child more likely to have tantrums.

Tantrums are equally common in both boys and girls and usually happen between the ages of one and three.

They usually stop on their own as children learn selfregulation and advance their communication skills.

Hang in there - tantrums are definitely not an indication that you’re doing anything wrong as a parent!

Why Do they Happen and What to Do

TODDLER TANTRUMS

37

SERVICES DIRECTORY BIRTH SUITES CAIRNS HOSPITAL

KIRWAN COMMUNITY

BIRTH SUITE

HEALTH SERVICE

4226 6318

4433 9500 138 Thuringowa Dr, Kirwan

CAIRNS PRIVATE HOSPITAL

EMERGENCY

WOMEN’S HEALTH UNIT

POLICE, FIRE AND

4052 5232

AMBULANCE

TOWNSVILLE HOSPITAL

000 - 24 hours, 7 days

BIRTH CENTRE

HOSPITALS

MAGNETIC ISLAND

13 55 66 Cairns · Townsville DIAL-A-DOCTOR 1300 030 030 Cairns DIAL-A-HOME-DOCTOR

4778 5107

13 99 99

76 Sooning St, Nelly Bay

Mackay

Mackay MACKAY COMMUNITY

MATER TOWNSVILLE

HOUSE CALL DOCTOR

HEALTH SERVICE CENTRE

4433 2222

CAIRNS BASE HOSPITAL

PHARMACIES

HEALTH CENTRE

CALANNA PHARMACY

4722 8866

4968 3893 12 Nelson St, Mackay

Largest family owned and first whole health pharmacy in Northern Australia.

Cairns City

MACKAY BIRTH CENTRE

CARLYLE COMMUNITY

CAIRNS PRIVATE HOSPITAL

4885 6933

WOMEN’S UNIT

4226 0000 24 hours, 7 days 165 The Esplanade,

4052 5200 24 hours, 7 days 1 Upward St, Cairns City TOWNSVILLE HOSPITAL

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRES Cairns

HEALTH CENTRE 4885 7750 40 Carlyle St, Mackay

MEDICAL - GENERAL 13HEALTH

4433 1111 24 hours, 7 days

COMMUNITY HEALTH

100 Angus Smith Drive, Douglas, Townsville

CENTRE

13 43 25 84 24 hours, 7 days

4226 4333

HEALTHDIRECT AUSTRALIA

MATER WOMEN’S AND

381 Sheridan St, Cairns

4727 4444

EDMONTON COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE

24 hours, 7 days 12-14 Oxford St, Hyde Park, Townsville

4226 4900

MACKAY HOSPITAL

SMITHFIELD COMMUNITY

10-12 Robert Rd, Edmonton

HEALTH CENTRE

4885 6000 24 hours, 7 days

4226 4803

475 Bridge Rd, Mackay

16 Danbulan St, Smithfield

MATER HOSPITAL MACKAY

KURANDA COMMUNITY

4965 5666

HEALTH

24 hours, 7 days

4226 9170

75 Willetts Rd, Mackay

33 Barrang St, Kuranda

SERVICES DIRECTORY

Important Numbers

Atherton 4089 2900 Mon to Fri: 8am - 6pm Sat: 8.00am - 1.00pm Sun: Closed

CAIRNS NORTH

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

38

Townsville

1800 022 222 24 hours, 7 days www.healthdirect.gov.au GP Helpline: Speak with a GP for further medical assessment and advice.

Medical Healthline: Speak with a registered nurse regarding any health issue.

MEDICAL - AFTER HOURS • • • •

After 4.00pm Weekdays After 10.00am Sat 24hrs Sun 24hrs Public Holidays

49 Main St, Atherton Cairns 07 4031 9611 Mon to Fri: 8.30am - 5.30pm Sat and Sun: Closed 67 McLeod St, Cairns City Townsville 4725 5244 Open 7 days: 8.00am - 10.00pm Open Public Holidays Open Christmas: 9.00am - 8.00pm 290 Ross River Rd, Aitkenvale HEALTH POINT – MACKAY Friendly pharmacist advice on everyday health issues from babies to the elderly.

4963 0300 Open 7 days: 8.00am - 9.00pm 65 Sydney St, Mackay

HELPLINES AUSTRALIAN

POISONS INFORMATION

SANE AUSTRALIA

BREASTFEEDING

CENTRE

MENTAL HEALTH

For fast poisoning advice from anywhere in Australia.

Your call will be answered by a pharmacist specially trained in toxicology who can determine whether medical attention is needed as well as provide first aid advice.

SANE provides support and advice for those suffering with mental health, as well as their families too. Call them if you are struggling with your own or your partner’s mental health.

ASSOCIATION The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) offers support and advice to breastfeeding mums 24 hours a day.

Whether you need emotional support during a difficult time or you just need some practical advice.

1800 MUM 2 MUM (or 1800 686 268) 24 hours, 7 days MIRACLE BABIES FOUNDATION The Miracle Babies Foundation provides free support catering for families with a threatened pregnancy, the hospital journey with a baby currently in NICU/SCN, the transition to home and onwards.

1300 622 243 www.miraclebabies.org.au NATIONAL IMMUNISATION HOTLINE Call for information about immunisation in Australia and how to ensure your child is protected against preventable diseases.

1800 671 811

PARENTLINE QUEENSLAND Parentline Queensland provides free counselling and support for parents and carers on a number of parenting related topics.

From birth to 18, Parentline can give advice on how you can deal with issues you may be facing as a parent, and it also provides advice to look after yourself too!

1300 301 300 7 days: 8.00am - 10.00pm LIFELINE Lifeline provides access to crisis support, suicide prevention and mental health support. It is so important that you understand that you are not alone, whether it’s after the birth or your child or otherwise. Call Lifeline whenever you need mental health support.

The Family Relationship Advice Line is an advice helpline for families affected by relationship or separation issues. Call this helpline for advice relating to relationships, including information on parenting arrangements.

DEPRESSION AUSTRALIA (PANDA) PANDA supports women, men and families in Australia who are affected by anxiety and depression during pregnancy and early parenthood.

1300 726 306 Mon to Fri: 10.00am - 5.00pm

LEGAL AID QUEENSLAND

A support service for users, families, and carers in crisis due to drug or alcohol use.

Legal Aid Queensland assist with Children and Parenting matters such as; Parenting arrangements, dispute resolution and family court matters.

1300 368 186 Available 24/7 RED NOSE GRIEF AND LOSS SUPPORT LINE Support line for anyone affected by the unexpected death of a baby or child during pregnancy, birth, or infancy.

1300 308 307

MIND AUSTRALIA

National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service.

You can call this helpline for confidential advice and support if you are being impacted by violence or abuse.

Mon to Fri : 9.00am - 5.00pm

1300 554 660

Mon to Fri: 8.00am - 8.00pm

SUPPORT AUSTRALIA

1800 RESPECT

1800 882 436

1800 050 321 Sat: 10am - 4pm

24 hours, 7 days

Support service providing free and confidential information, support and referral for people who know somebody with a mental illness.

ADVICE LINE

FAMILY DRUG

PREGNANCY BIRTH

This is a phone and online counselling and support service for information, advice and counselling about all aspects of pregnancy, childbirth and your baby’s first year.

Men: 1300 78 99 78

PERINATAL ANXIETY AND

13 11 14

AND BABY

Women: 1800 811 811

FAMILY RELATIONSHIP

7 days: 8.00am - 5.00pm

www.lifeline.org.au

24/7 support service for women and men affected by family violence or relationship issues.

1800 187 263 Mon to Fri: 9.00am - 5.00pm

13 11 26 24 hours, 7 days

DVCONNECT AUSTRALIA

24 hours, 7 days

1800 737 732 24 hours, 7 days

1300 651 188 www.legalaid.qld.gov.au WOMENS LEGAL SERVICE QUEENSLAND Women’s Legal Service Queensland offers a range of free legal and social work services for women in Queensland.

Women’s Legal Service Queensland can assist in the following areas of law: Domestic violence protection, Divorce and separation, Family law matters, Child protection and Child support.

1800 957 957 www.dvrcv.org.au

Important Numbers

HELPLINES

39

Your

BABY BIRTHING CHECKLISTS PULL ME OUT

BEFORE BABY CHECKLIST First Trimester

□ □

Second Trimester

Make a prenatal appointment Consult your GP about medications you’re taking

□

Make sure your activities are safe for pregnancy

□ □

Avoid hazardous food Think about how you’ll announce your pregnancy

□

Consider the costs of parenthood and start to save (if you haven't already)

□ □

Apply for parental leave

□

Get lots of snacks to ease morning sickness (Jatz crackers are great!)

Get a diary and start writing about how you are feeling

□ □ □ □

Find a prenatal exercise class

□ □ □

Start sleeping on your side

Shop for maternity clothes Do some financial planning Attend classes on baby care and childbirth Find baby name inspiration Have a baby shower or gender reveal party

Third Trimester

□ □ □

Track your baby’s movements

□

Set up a designated baby change area

Know the three stages of labour Wash and dry all the baby’s clothes and bedding

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Install baby’s car seat Set up the baby monitor Clean your car Stock up on essentials Set up the baby’s room Take maternity photos Pack your labour bag Spring clean the house Pre-register at your hospital Write a letter to your baby Cook freezer meals Organise who will look after older children and pets

□ □

Pick baby’s “going home” outfit

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Baby shampoo

Finalise your birth plan

SHOPPING LIST For Mum

For Baby

□ □

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

□ □ □ □

42

2-3 maternity bras / singlets Waterproof bed pad for you (in case your waters break on the bed) Maternity menstruation pads Feeding pillow Entertainment such as magazines and books Reusable or disposable breast pads

□ □ □

Nipple cream

□ □ □

1-3 Maternity skirts

□ □

5-7 maternity / feeding tops

Baby book for memories Breast pump (if you plan on breastfeeding) Maternity jeans (only if winter) 1-3 pairs maternity shorts / light pants / leggings 1-3 maternity or loose dresses

YOUR BABY BIRTHING CHECKLISTS

5 onesies 5 one-piece pyjamas 1-3 jumpers / long sleeve tops 1 hat 4-7 pairs of booties or socks 4-8 bibs Nappies (disposable or cloth) Nappy rash cream Changing mat

2-4 soft towels Baby hairbrush Soft washcloths Gentle laundry detergent Stroller Baby carrier/sling Swaddling blankets Baby car seat Baby thermometer

Dirty-nappy bin Nappy bag Bassinet or cot Baby monitor Baby mattress 4 fitted sheets Nightlight Waterproof mattress protector Nail clippers Baby bathtub Baby soap

Before Baby Shopping

FIND US ON SPOTIFY!

PAKMAG PUSH Playlist

LABOUR BAG CHECKLIST

FIRST YEAR TO DO

FOR MUM

Toiletries

FIRST YEAR MUST DO

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Toothbrush and toothpaste

□

□ □ □

Disposable breast pads

Paperwork

□ □ □ □ □

Birth plan Medicare Card Private Health Insurance Details Doctors/OB-GYN Details Your red book with all your health information

Clothing

□

Button up gown for skin to skin ease

□

Pyjamas that button down the front if breast feeding

□ □ □ □

Day clothes: you will be sore, so bring something loose-fitting and comfortable Slippers/socks

Shampoo and conditioner Liquid soap

□

Deodorant Moisturiser Tissues Hair brush and accessories Lip balm

□

Two packs of maternity pads Nipple cream Soft toilet paper or flushable wipes

Miscellaneous

Feeding tops

□

Underwear: it’s a good idea to bring old comfy ones that can be thrown away in case of staining

Sports drink, lollies, or other snacks for an energy boost

□ □

Music and music player

FOR BABY

□ □ □ □ □

Snacks

Clothing

Change of clothes in case yours get wet

□ □ □ □ □

□ □ □ □ □

Coins for vending machines

Toiletries

Magazine or book Charger and camera/phone

Warm jumper Any medications you may be on A refillable water bottle A little gift for the new mumma

• The Circle of Life - Elton John • I Want to Break Free - Queen • Roar - Katy Perry • Push It - Salt n Pepa • I’m Coming Out - Diana Ross • Happy - Pharrell Williams

□ □ □ □

□ □ □ □ □ □ □

Add baby to Medicare and private health Fill out the baby book Complete applications for government financial benefits with Centrelink Organise a passport if you are travelling overseas Adjust your will Find a good doctor or paediatrician Take them for their vaccinations Baby-proof the home Find a good babysitter Decide on childcare Start thinking about kindy and school location

Massage oil

FOR BIRTHING PARTNER

Panadol

□ □

Order baby’s birth certificate through Births, Deaths and Marriages

FIRST YEAR FUN!

Four onesies Four pyjama onesies Two pairs of socks Soft hat

Do a newborn photoshoot

□

Keep a journal of baby's achievements

□ □ □

Baby mittens

Nappies and wipes

□ □

Hooded baby towel Baby shampoo Soft washcloth

□ □ □

• Sweet Child O’ Mine Guns n Roses • Under Pressure - Queen • Get Ready for This -

□ □

2Unlimited • You Are the Sunshine of My Life -Stevie Wonder

□ □ □ □ □ □

Labour Bag, First Year and Birthing Partner

Create a memory box for small sentimental items

Take baby to a playgroup Take baby to swimming lessons Take baby to meet their family if they live far away Take lots of photos and videos!

Find a group of like-minded parent friends Do baby hand and feet sculptures Source fun, informative and time-saving apps Organise and refresh your postpartum wardrobe Do a pamper Mum day Organise a date night Take baby to a petting zoo Make a baby’s first year scrapbook Plan their first birthday Do a birthday cake smash photoshoot

YOUR BABY BIRTHING CHECKLISTS

43

IMMUNISATION SCHEDULE AGE

IMMUNISATION

DISEASES

ADDITIONAL

Birth

H-B-Vaxll Paediatric or Engerix B paediatric

Hepatitis B

Usually offered in hospital, can be given up to 7 days after birth

BCG

Tuberculosis

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children aged <5 years, living in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

Infanrix Hexa

DTPa, HepB, IPV, Hib

Prevenar 13

Pneumococcal

Rotarix

Rotavirus

First dose must be given < 15 weeks of age. Second dose must be given < 25 weeks of age

Bexsero

Meningococcal B

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children

Infanrix Hexa

DTPa, Hep B, IPV, Hib

Prevenar 13

Pneumococcal

Additional dose for indigenous children in WA, NT, SA, Qld and children with specified medical risk conditions

Bexsero

Meningococcal B

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children with specified medical conditions'

6 Months to 5 years

As supplied

Influenza

12 Months

Piorix or M-M-RII

Measles, mumps, rubella

Nimenrix

Meningococcal ACWY

Prevenar 13

Pneumococcal

Bexsero

Meningococcal B

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children

H-B-VaxII paediatric OR Engerix B paediatric

Hepatitis B

Premature baby < 32 weeks gestation or < 2000g birthweight only

Priorix-Tetra or ProQuad

Measles, mumps, rubella, varicella

Act-HIB

Haemophilus influenzae type b

Infanrix or Tripacel

DTPa

Vaqta paediatric

Hepatitis A

Infanrix IPV or Quadracel

DTPa-IPV

Pneumovax 23

Pneumococcal

All children with specified medical conditions and Indigenous children in WA, NT, SA, QLD. Administer first dose of 23vPPV at age 4 years, followed by second dose of 23vPPV at least 5 years later

Vaqta Paediatric

Hepatitis A

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children

Gardasil 9

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

2 doses given at 0 and 6 months.

Immunocompromised and 15 to 19 year old adolescents require 3 doses given at 0, 2 and 6 months

Boostrix

Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis

Nimenrix

Meningococcal ACWY

2 and 4 Months

6 Months

18 Months

4 years

Year 7 students (or age equivalent)

Year 10 students (or age equivalent)

44

IMMUNISATION SCHEDULE

Birth to Year 10

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children

TOILET TRAINING AS EASY AS 1, 2, WEE! Toilet training can be a tricky thing. When do you start? Do you start with a potty or go straight to a normal-sized toilet?

When can they start wearing undies? There is no right or wrong way to potty train your child and there are various ways to go about it.

Signs they are ready One thing to remember is that not all kids are ready at the same age, but there are a few signs that indicate they are ready to start toilet training.

Makes the connection – Once they make the connection between the urge to pee or poo and using the potty.

Pulls down their pants – If they can pull down their pants on their own, this is another good indication.

Shows an interest in toilet training – They may start to make comments about wanting to use the toilet or wanting to wear underpants.

Time to start Toilet training isn’t an overnight task (if only it was).

It generally takes between three to six months, but every child is different, and some may take less time or more time.

First, be prepared with either a potty or a step for your toilet and smaller seat that fits securely inside the existing toilet seat (some children feel uneasy about falling in).

Also, have on hand plenty of clean underpants (or pull-ups).

Sit your child on the potty or toilet when they get up in the morning, straight after a meal or snack and after their

afternoon nap. If your child is showing cues of needing to go potty, such as crossing their legs or squatting, take them to the toilet too. You may notice a regular pattern of when they need to “go”. Timing is key!

During the toilet training process, avoid clothing that is hard for your child to take off, such as overalls or rompers.

Make sure all caregivers, such as grandparents, babysitters or childcare staff know that you’re in the process of toilet training so they can use the same approaches to avoid confusing the child.

When it comes to bedwetting, remember that it is a normal part of childhood and will take longer for your child to get under control.

It’s important to stay positive and patient throughout the process. Reading books together about toilet training and providing small rewards such as stickers can help the process along. Praise any achievements, no matter how small, and ignore behaviour you don’t want.

When accidents happen (and they probably will), don’t make a big deal out of them. It’s normal for toilet training to regress a little, and your child will be back on track before you know it. If things get a little too stressful, it’s okay to take a break from toilet training.

Toilet Training Is as Easy as One, Two...Wee! - Head to www.pakmag.com.au and check out Episode 35 of the PakMag Parents Podcast with Dr Justin Coulson from Happy Families sharing his top tips on toilet-training children, and busting some myths on the topic.

Dr Justin Coulson has a PhD in Psychology, is a best-selling author of six books and father to six daughters. Justin writes and speaks about parenting and family – because nothing matters more. www.happyfamilies.com.au

Sign and Tips

TOILET TRAINING

47

BUBS BUCKET LIST CAIRNS Looking for experiences for your little one? Check out all these baby and toddler-friendly activities, lessons and services. There’s plenty of things to do in Cairns that are not only super fun, but will aid their development too.

Little Pearls Swim School Little Pearls Swim School has passionate and caring instructors ready to guide your child through their swimming journey. Offering uniquely small class sizes, an award-winning program and a variety of classes for the little ones, it’s about more than just swimming.

Baby and Toddler – Lessons for ages 4 months to 3 ½ years. Learn to Swim (Independent) – Lessons for ages 3 ½ years to primary school children. Contact the Little Pearls Swim School team for information on pricing.

Private lessons are also available.

P 4038 1241 A 1 Cumberland Avenue,

Smithfield littlepearlsswimschool.com.au

Cairns Libraries As your baby grows up, it’s important that they have a good learning foundation. Baby Rhyme Time is offered at all the Cairns Libraries for your convenience.

During these 30-minute sessions, your baby will rhyme, clap, move and explore books with other children.

This is a fun opportunity for your child to enhance their developmental skills and get that head start in life.

It’s also a great platform for you to get to know some l ike-minded parents.

Other great programs you can find at your local Library include: Morning and Afternoon Storytime, Saturday Storytime, Sing a Song with First 5 Forever and Talk, Read, Sing and Play.

A Smithfield, Stratford, Cairns

City, Manunda, Earlville,

Gordonvale, and Babinda www.cairns.qld.gov.au/ library

FNQ Dance Academy Start your little one off with Placedance for 2 - 3 year olds, a social class focused on socialising as well as gross motor skills and coordination.

Babies Ballet for 3 - 4 year olds and Kindy Ballet for 4 - 5 year old children both combine music, mime, movement dance basics and more, through themed weekly (and fun!) classes.

The academy also offers Junior Boys Classes with a focus on young male dancers aged 3 - 6 years old.

P 4051 4888 A The City:

168 Draper St, Cairns A The Grounds:

117 Toogood Rd, Woree www.fnqdanceacademy.com.au

Cairns Children’s Festival The Cairns Children's Festival is an annual celebration for children aged 12 years and under. The festival will be held on 14 and 15 May in 2022 and aims to put our youngest creatives in the spotlight whilst also creating a safe and fun environment for families to explore, create and imagine.

Events and activities are held across multiple locations including Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns Botanic Gardens and The Court House. Annually, the Cairns Children's Festival invites local artists to design installations and activities as well as opportunities for our youngest creatives to be part of the festival. Keep an eye on the Cultural Services Facebook page for opportunities and information about the Cairns Children's Festival as it is announced.

P 1300 855 835 f Cultural Services Cairns www.ticketlink.com.au

Things to Do for Your Little One

BUBS BUCKET LIST CAIRNS

49

Tiny Tots - Inflatable Kingdom at Cairns Indoor Sports Tiny Tots is on every weekday of the school term 9.00am until 12 midday, every weekend 9.00am until 4.00pm and every day of the school holidays 9.00am until 4.00pm.

It is aimed at children 5 years and under. As long as the kids can walk they can join in the fun. They have jumping castles and a load of fun stuff all set up for the kids to enjoy. Plus they also have running races and teach the children skills such as hitting balls, kicking balls, catching and throwing.

Tiny Tots is also the perfect venue for children's birthday parties. Cost: $10.00 for children 5 and under - for two hours of fun! Don’t forget your socks.

P 4032 2844 A 164 Mayers St, Manunda www.inflatablekingdom.com.au

Kindermusic with Nicole

The Benevolent Society’s Early Years Centres The Benevolent Society’s Early Years Centres are a onestop-shop where families come first. Providing free expert support and advice from conception, they want to help you give your child the best possible start in life.

Services are offered free and include infant health checks, supported playgroups, infant massage classes, immunisation clinics, parenting programs, playgroups, toy library, family support services, community based midwifery services and a coordinated program approach to working with local early years services and allied health professionals.

P 4034 6800 / 1800 236 762 A Bentley Park, Gordonvale,

Trinity Park www.benevolent.org.au

Cairns Art Gallery

Children and Baby's Music and Movement Classes in Cairns.

A good beginning never ends. Operating in Cairns since 1988, Nicole offers the full program of Kindermusik classes from Village for babies up to 20 months, Our Time for children aged 18 months to 3 years, Imagine That for 3 - 5 years and Kindermusik for the Young Child for 4 1/2 to 7 year olds - where children learn to read music and play the glockenspiel. Backed by researchers. Quality music classes are the only activity for children that stimulates every part of their brain, give your child a musical headstart with Nicole.

Cairns Art Gallery run a range of art classes and creative workshops throughout the year.

P 0418 772 258 f Kindermusik with Nicole www.nicole.kindermusik.com

P 4046 4800 A CNR Abbott and Shields St www.cairnsartgallery.com.au

The Gallery is a great place to bring children on school holidays to experience the beauty of our local culture and to experience the world of art and creativity and the importance of self expression.

Gymbaroo Neurodevelopment program for children 6 weeks to 8 years. Movement is the key to learning!

P 0408 107 310 A 18 Charles St, Cairns www.gymbaroo.com.au

50

BUBS BUCKET LIST CAIRNS

Gymbaroo is an Australian designed and developed, research-based, early childhood and parenting education program that has helped over half a million Australian families in the past 35 years to give their children a great start to learning and life. It’s the only parent-child program in the world that specialises in research-based, neuro-developmental, fun learning environments for babies to school-aged children and their parents. It is also the only program in the world that has integrated key developmental activities, essential for complete development in each age and stage of development, into a comprehensive and all-encompassing program. Classes are fun and engaging. Each week, join other local families and experience the wonderful socialisation, learning, and movement opportunities involved in their program.

South Cairns Gymnastics

Empower Kids Yoga

A range of gymnastics programs, beginning with Kindergym. 2 years + p 0432 813 446 www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

Mediation, Mindfulness, Yoga, relaxation and Stories for children. 3 years + p 0450 228 922 www.empower-yoga.com

Things to Do for Your Little One

BUBS BUCKET LIST TOWNSVILLE Looking for experiences for your little one? Check out all these baby and toddler-friendly activities, lessons and services. There’s plenty of things to do in Townsville that are not only super fun, but will aid their development too.

Ann Roberts School of Dancing All ages can explore the world of dance with The Ann Roberts School of Dance.

With classical ballet, character, tap, jazz, contemporary, highland, song and dance, hip hop and fitness - there’s a class for everyone. They have plenty of programs to get your little one moving including Bobs n’ Bubs and; Teeny Tots - For 2 and 3 years. Toddlers and a parent / family member - get together to explore music, movement and storytelling with their bodies, all whilst connecting with one another for an uninterrupted 30 mins.

Tiny Tots - For 3 and 4 years. This class is created to encourage musicality, coordination and locomotion skills, listening and recall.

P 4771 3385 A 8-10 Fletcher St ​and

853 Flinders St, Townsville www.annroberts.com.au

Townsville Playground & Parks Townsville is home to 372 parks, 203 playgrounds, 21 off-leash dog parks and 3 world-class botanic gardens.

With easily accessible footpaths, bikeways and inclusive facilities, anyone from the community can enjoy their local open spaces. Why not swap the backyard get together for a picnic in the park? Or enjoy an active afternoon out with the family – don’t forget your four-legged friend!

City Libraries Townsville First5Forever Baby Rhyme Time - Sing songs and rhymes, clap, move, and explore books together during the school terms. Sessions run for 50 minutes each and are designed for children from birth to 2 years.

First5Forever Toddler Time - Develop your toddler’s early literacy skills and concentration with fun songs, dance, and a story. Sessions are 20 minutes long each for children aged from 2 years old.

First5Forever Storytime - Encourage and nurture your child’s love of books while helping them develop early literacy and social skills. Sessions are 60 minutes long and involve several story readings as well as rhymes and a craft activity. Suitable for ages 3 - 5 years.

Cost: FREE. All sessions require booking at whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au.

Messy Play Take Home Packs are also available. www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Gymbaroo At GymbaROO you join other local families and experience the wonderful socialisation, learning and movement opportunities involved in our program.

There are so many reasons to explore our open spaces, and with over 300 days of sunshine each year, Townsville’s the perfect place to get out and about.

GymbaROO stands out as being the ONLY parent-child program in the world that specialises in research-based, neuro-developmental, fun learning environments for babies to school aged children and their parents. It is also the only program in the world that has integrated key developmental activities, essential for complete development in each age and stage of development, into a comprehensive and all-encompassing program.

P 13 48 10 A Townsville www.townsville.qld.gov.au

P 0432 686 306 A 50 Bamford Lane Kirwin www.gymbaroo.com.au

Things to Do for Your Little One

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PCYC Townsville

Kirwan Aquatics and Love 2 Swim School

Kindy Kids is a parent involved movement education program designed for children 1 to 4 years. Kindy Kids is a fun early learning program based on active and especially spontaneous play for young children. It is about learning through exploring and play. Play is fun and fundamental to children’s development and promotes children’s physical development, self-confidence, self-esteem and creativity. Parents and caregivers have an important role in supporting their child’s development through play and are a role model and a source of ideas and encouragement during the classes.

Love2Swim Schools’ baby programs are more than water familiarisation and socialising for babies. Classes have been researched for over 20 years and Love2Swim educates the parent on how to hold their baby to teach them to swim independently at an early age and to be in the correct position to learn strokes and progress quickly. Love2Swim pride themselves on seeing young swimmers; confidently

P 4781 9100 - Townsville P 4783 1009 - Burdekin www.pcyc.org.au

Kirwan Aquatic Centre P 4723 3447 Kokoda Memorial Pool P 4725 5357 www.love2swimschool.com.au

Townsville Toy Library

Inflatable Kingdom

The Townsville Toy Library is a volunteer-operated toy library service for children 0-12 years. It helps children to thrive through the use of developmental, educational, environmentally-friendly and safe toys. The Townsville Toy Library will save you money, provide variety and keep your kids interested and entertained. We all know how quickly kids can lose interest, playing with the same old toys, mix it up with the Toy Library. You can also book a jumping castle, party toys or equipment with their party hire services too!

Inflatable Kingdom is home to a variety of jumping castles and other inflatable play structures.

P 0417 703 211 A Townsville Grammar

Junior School www.townsvilletoylibrary.org.au

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swimming on their own. Our baby level has three stages and is age appropriate following their land reflexes.

Aquababy, AquaMobileBaby, AquaTot – 3 months to 3 years (parent in the water). Two great centres to choose from:

If your tiny tot needs somewhere to burn off their energy, this is the place to go!

During a two-and-a-half-hour session, your tot can explore and play to their heart’s content. Toddlers will have a ball playing, climbing, and sliding in this bright, inflatable wonderland. Don’t forget your socks!

P 4755 4422 A Townsville www.inflatablekingdom.com.au

Impressionable Kids

NQ Baby and Kids Market

Hand and feet sculptures, name frames, birth collages and keepsake jewellery. p 1300 885 868 www.impressionablekids.com.au

All things baby and kids conveniently in one place.

Townsville and Mackay. p 0417 629 418 nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com

Swim Studio

Rugby Tots

Providing water safety skills to all age levels, including Learn to Swim for Your Baby. p 4725 4121 www.swimstudio.com.au

Children aged 2 - 7 years old guided to play as a team with energetic coaches. p 0400 315 507 www.rugbytots.com.au

BUBS BUCKET LIST TOWNSVILLE

Things to Do for Your Little One

BUBS BUCKET LIST MACKAY Looking for experiences for your little one? Check out all these baby and toddler-friendly activities, lessons, shopping boutiques and services. There’s plenty of things to do in Mackay and The Whitsundays that are not only super fun, but will aid their development too.

Indigo Blue Photography

Little Tree House Lane

Capturing your precious moments. Wedding, Maternity, Newborn, Cake smash and Family sessions.

Little Treehouse Lane provides families with fun but practical items to help navigate everyday life as a parent.

Photography is all about making time stand still, if only for a small moment. Capturing precious memories so you can go back and enjoy them for a lifetime. Their goal at Indigo Blue is to capture those memories how you want them.

Location or studio shoots available. Their studio is located in Beaconsfield and has a huge range of maternity dresses, Girls Dollcake dresses, baby clothing, wraps, headbands, bonnets, textures, baskets, backdrops and so much more.

They can make scenes to suit your taste or keep it laid back and minimalist, at Indigo Blue Photography... it's all up to you.

They also stock fun items that encourage fine and gross motor skills, gift items perfect for newborns or baby showers. You’ll find a small range of Australian Clothing labels, hats and swimwear for babies, kids and even for Mum!

P 0402 343 662 f Indigo Blue Photography indigobluephotography.com.au

Kids Life Play Centre The Kids Life Play Centre offers a supportive and safe environment where children can play to their hearts content whilst bonding with their parents. They offer classes for parenting, raising children and single parent families to foster healthy interactions between parents and their children. Alongside this, they are a not for profit organization aiming to assist less-fortunate children in developing nations. They are in partnership with New Life Church who together support local and international projects.

P 4953 5575 A 75 Evans Ave, North Mackay www.kidzlife.com.au

You’ll also find the very bright and colourful range of RePlay Recycled Plastic Tableware and the largest range of baby pacifiers in the region! There really is something for everyone at Little Treehouse Lane.

P 0404 057 678 A Shop 2448, Caneland

Central, Cnr Victoria St &

Mangrove Rd, Mackay www.littletreehouselane.com.au

Mackay ARC Baby Swimming Keep an eye on the website for classes for infants and toddlers. Swimming lessons can commence from 3 months of age, and are a great way for mum or dad to have fun with bub and get them used to being in a pool. Lessons intensify the older bubby gets, but before you know it they will be confident in the pool, be able to pop their head under, and swim to the side. All great things for baby to learn from a young age for water safety and skills for life.

The Mackay ARC is also home to Mackay Athletics Club.

P 4847 5400 A 193 Boundary Road,

Ooralea www.mackayarc.com.au

Mackay

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Mackay Libraries

MECC

The First 5 Forever programs at Mackay Libraries provide a strong early literacy foundation for your child’s life. There are FREE programs for children aged 0 - 5 years including: Baby Bounce - promotes language development in babies from birth to walking. The session features nursery rhymes, fingerplays and songs.

Toddler Time - is a fun way to encourage language development and social interaction for your toddler.

Activities during the sessions include nursery rhymes, action songs, finger plays and a story.

Story Time - enhances language and literacy development and is aimed at children aged 2.5 to 5 years. The session features stories, nursery rhymes and songs.

For Mackay residents, attending a show at the MECC is a must.

The MECC, or otherwise known as the Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre, is the largest convention and banqueting facility between Cairns and Brisbane and hosts programs to entertain parents and their children throughout the year.

Throughout the year, you have the chance to attend various children’s theatre performances, children’s concerts and interactive exhibits.

The MECC has something to offer for all ages and interests throughout the year with very affordable ticket pricing.

P 4961 9387 A Various Locations P 4961 9777 www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ A 258 Alfred Street, Mackay libraries www.themecc.com.au

Art Space Mackay

NQ Baby and Kids Market

Suspect you may have a budding artist in the family?

Keep an eye on Artspace Mackay’s many art activities for little ones in town. The ever-popular toddler’s program BMA Kidspace occurs on a monthly basis and gives little ones under 5 a chance to explore and have fun with art in a light-hearted, fun environment.

The program includes free artist-run workshops from 10.00am to 2.00pm and live music from 12.00pm to 1.00pm for a great few hours of fun, dancing, and creativity.

Let the kids bounce around on the jumping castles, create to their heart’s content at the craft area or have their face painted. Keep your fingers crossed and you may win a lucky door prize.

P 4961 9722 A Civic Centre Precinct,

Gordon Street www.artspacemackay.com.au

P 0417 629 418 f Nth Qld Babies &

Kids Market nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com

Paradise Swimming & Fitness

Ready Steady Go Kids

Includes two heated pools for the use of Learn to Swim for infants through to adults. p 4952 1417 f Paradise Swimming & Fitness

Inclusive, non-competitive and fun multi-sports for 1.5 6 year olds. p 1300 766 892 www.readysteadygokids.com.au

Mackay Gymnastics

Bring Your Baby Event Cinemas

Classes for all ages and abilities including their Kindergym program for little ones. p 4942 0032 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au

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Browse a huge number of stalls, have a bite to eat and grab one of the free bounty bags (limited numbers). The NQ Baby and Kids Market occurs numerous times throughout the year in Mackay and Townsville, bringing all things baby and kids conveniently to one place.

BUBS BUCKET LIST MACKAY

Things to Do for Your Little One

Relax and catch a movie at the Bring Your Baby movie sessions. p 4864 3600 www.eventcinemas.com.au

52 PRAM FRIENDLY WALKS IN NQ Getting out and about with baby is not only great for entertaining your little one, it’s also great for you to get out of the house for some fresh air and to feel a little more human. But with a pram in tow, sometimes knowing where you can go is a struggle. We’ve made it easy for you! Here’s our top picks for pram-friendly walks in North Queensland.

PRAM FRIENDLY WALKS IN CAIRNS AND SURROUNDS 1. Silver Crescent Park, Palm Cove

a swimming hole and a shallow paddling area for toddlers.

The park also features a walking track with wide open spaces, picnic tables, toilets and BBQ facilities.

This park features open fields, shady trees to relax under, picnic facilities, and a playground.

11. Cairns Esplanade, Cairns City

2. Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove The long walkway along Palm Cove’s shoreline is frequented by many families. Along the way you’ll find a playground, shops, restaurants, toilet facilities and a fishing jetty.

3. Coast Watcher Park, Trinity Beach This is a beautiful park featuring plenty of trees and a billabong. There’s a playground, skate park, public toilets and picnic tables.

4. Arlington Esplanade, Clifton Beach Stroll along Clifton Beach and watch the waves roll onto the shore. At the northern end of the Esplanade, you’ll find a park with playground, picnic tables, BBQ, toilet facilities and lovely boardwalk through the forest.

'The Esplanade includes 2.5km of pedestrian and shared paths' bursting with attractions such as the lagoon, Muddy's playground, the Pirate Ship playground, beach volleyball courts, multi-use court, Skate Plaza, Bouldering Park, fitness stations, live music and Sunday markets. You’ll also find BBQs, picnic tables, restaurants and toilets.

12. Munro Martin Parklands, Cairns City The Munro Martin Parklands feature an open field, seating, a variety of plants and toilet facilities. The venue is used for live performances but is open to the public unless there is a ticketed event on the day.

13. Moody Creek Park, Manoora Perfect for an afternoon stroll, Moody Creek Park has open green spaces, shady trees and a playground.

5. Vasey Esplanade, Trinity Beach

14. Forest Gardens the Lakes Park, Forest Gardens

Along Vasey Esplanade you’ll find a playground, BBQ, toilet facilities, and restaurants. The beach also has two wonderful lookouts, but these are only accessible by stairs.

This park has something for the whole family including a playground and sports’ facilities for a game of basketball or tennis. The park also offers picnic tables and shady trees.

6. Cattana Wetlands, Smithfield

15. Boxwood Close Reserve, Mt Sheridan

This location is bursting with abundant birdlife and greenery; enjoy a stroll on one of the many walkways looping around beautiful billabongs. At the wetlands you’ll find toilet facilities, picnic tables, a boardwalk, and informative signs.

This reserve is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a play in the playground. In the area you’ll find open green spaces and plenty of trees.

7. Crystal Cascades, Redlynch Not just a popular swimming hole, Crystal Cascades is fantastic for a stroll beneath the rainforest canopy as you listen to the water rushing close by you. There’s toilet facilities, BBQ, and picnic tables. Beware that the majority of this is uphill!

8. Cairns Botanic Gardens, Edge Hill Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and marvel at the beautiful plant life around you. The location has a café, toilet facilities, and picnic tables, but it’s important to note not all pathways are accessible by pram.

9. Centenary Lakes, Edge Hill The lakes are home to many bird and plant species, and include BBQs, picnic tables, nature playground, and toilet facilities. Ideal for a family outing - keep an eye out for turtles!

10. Goomboora Park, Brinsmead At Goomboora Park you will find an adventure playground,

16. Sugarworld Parklands, Edmonton Frequented by families with kids of all ages, Sugarworld Parklands is known for its all-abilities playground, volleyball court, BBQ area, picnic tables, fruit orchard, and its location adjacent to Sugarworld Waterpark.

17. Barron Falls Lookout Track, Kuranda Barron Falls is stunning all year round, especially so after the region has had some rain. There’s a wonderful lookout accessible by boardwalk through the lush rainforest.

Facilities include toilet facilities and picnic tables.

18. Butterfly Walk, Tully Gorge National Park Living up to its name, Butterfly Walk is often frequented by resident butterflies usually between September and February. Facilities include toilets, BBQs and picnic tables.

19. Mossman Gorge, Mossman Along with BBQs, picnic tables, and toilet facilities, Mossman Gorge’s Baral Marrjanga walking track leads through the rainforest boasting stunning views of the Mossman River and mountain ranges.

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PRAM FRIENDLY WALKS IN TOWNSVILLE AND SURROUNDS 20. Soroptimist Park, Belgian Gardens This park features an exciting pirate-ship playground as well as picnic tables, toilet facilities and BBQs all on a fantastic beachfront location.

21. Bushland Beach A relaxing stroll by the beach is hard to beat, but Bushland Beach really has it all including toilets, BBQ facilities, and a playground.

22. The Strand, North Ward Stroll along the shore and enjoy the attractions The Strand has to offer, including multiple playgrounds, a waterpark, swimming pool, restaurants, toilet facilities, BBQs, and picnic tables, all with stunning beach views.

26. Mount View Park, Kirwan This park features a wonderful playground catering for younger and older kids, complete with large trees providing natural shade. Facilities include toilets, picnic tables, and a BBQ area.

27. Riverway & Dan Gleeson Park, Thuringowa Walk amongst open green areas and shady trees in this amazing, creative space. There is also a playground and various shaded seating options and swimming pool at Riverway with heaps of fun, free, fitness activities, provided by the Townsvile City Council.

28. The Palmetum, Douglas At The Palmetum you’ll discover a variety of lush plant life along with a pond inhabited by ducks; a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

23. Jezzine Barracks, North Ward

29. Ross River

Offering various facilities including BBQs, picnic tables and toilets, Jezzine Barracks is a favourite with families.

There’s a playground, observation deck, and plenty of history to learn about.

Take in beautiful views of the water on a walk along Ross River. Depending on how far you walk, you’ll find toilet facilities, playgrounds, restaurants, and picnic tables along the way.

24. Queens Gardens, North Ward

30. Anderson Park, Mundingburra

If you’re after a leisurely stroll amongst the trees and birds without leaving the city, Queens Gardens is for you. Facilities include picnic tables, toilets, and a playground.

Take a stroll in the beautiful Anderson Park amongst a collection of trees. While you’re there, make sure you pay the conservatory, fruit orchard and lotus pond a visit too.

25. Castle Hill

31. Rossiter Park, Aitkenvale

This iconic feature of Townsville is also one of the most popular walking tracks in the region. The 3.3km circular road is pram-friendly and leads all the way to the top, unless you’d like to take it up a notch and take bub in a carrier whilst you brave one of the winding trails.

This park has a huge variety of playground structures, toilets, BBQs, and picnic tables, all situated a picturesque riverside location.

32. Booroona Trail, Rasmussen Take a walk along the beautiful Ross River and enjoy the sounds of nature. Keep your eyes peeled for many species of birdlife that inhabit the area.

33. Alligator Creek Boardwalk, Alligator Creek This location contains a diverse habitat for local wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, and birds. Facilities at Alligator Creek include BBQs, toilets, picnic tables, and a visitor information centre.

34. Horseshoe Bay Lagoon, Magnetic Island Off the main road near Horseshoe Bay beach, you’ll find a short, easy track that leads to a lagoon frequented by wild waterbirds.

35. TYTO Wetlands, Ingham Discover art, culture, and nature all at TYTO Wetlands.

The area is known for its abundant birdlife and modern architectural parklands, perfect for an afternoon out.

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PRAM FRIENDLY WALKS IN MACKAY AND SURROUNDS 36. Bucasia Esplanade, Bucasia One of the city’s favourite beaches, Bucasia Esplanade makes for a lovely walk with playgrounds, BBQ facilities and plenty of shade along the way.

37. The Gooseponds, North Mackay Popular with families with young children, The Gooseponds is home to abundant birdlife including geese, ducks, and pelicans, along with toilets, picnic areas, and exercise facilities.

38. Blacks Beach This is Mackay’s longest stretch of beach at 6km long.

It is a popular spot for those escaping the city noise, making it fantastic for a leisurely stroll with gorgeous views all around.

39. John Breen Memorial Park Take a walk with bub in the sunshine and enjoy the wide-open spaces around you.

40. Bluewater Quay Featuring a gorgeous waterfront location and nearby playground, Bluewater Quay is ideal for a leisurely walk or a BBQ with the family.

41. Bluewater Trail, Mackay City Bluewater Trail is a must for anyone with little ones.

Walk along the picturesque Pioneer River and take in the beautiful views around you, stopping at various popular parks and locations along the way.

42. Canelands Park, Mackay City Adjacent to Bluewater Lagoon and Canelands Central, Canelands Park features a playground on the water’s edge frequented by families and tourists alike.

43. Caneland Central On a warm Mackay day, nothing is better than going for a stroll in the aircon and getting some shopping in of course!

44. Breakwater at the Harbour Bask in the sun and feel that ocean breeze when going for a walk at Mackay Harbour’s Breakwater, perfect for your next stroll with bub.

45. New Mulherin Park Mackay With spacious grassed areas, boardwalks, and the sea breeze in your hair, New Mulherin Park is a gorgeous location for a walk or picnic, complete with playgrounds, amenities and nearby eateries.

46. Queens Park, East Mackay Home to the Orchid House and the newly opened Queen’s Park Playground, this location has something for everyone.

Facilities include toilets and shaded tables which are scattered throughout the park, with electricity available to the Robert Bell Band Rotunda.

47. Town beach This location is perfect if the idea of a late-afternoon walks to the sound of waves crashing to the shore appeals to you.

If you have older children with you, Town Beach is fringed

by Iluka Park playground which also has toilet and BBQ facilities.

48. Quota Park Featuring a sensory garden, playground, public amenities and a location close to the beach, Quota Beach is a wonderful location for your next afternoon stroll.

49. Botanic Gardens, West Mackay Take a leisurely stroll by the water and discover the beautiful plants on display. There’s a restaurant on site so you can have a peaceful meal with a gorgeous view.

50. Bicentennial Walkway, Airlie Beach This walkway connects Airlie Beach to Cannonvale. Along the way you’ll enjoy unbeatable views of the Coral Sea and nearby Whitsunday Islands, with plenty of spots to relax along the way. At the end you’ll find Airlie Beach Lagoon which has a kids’ pool, perfect to cool off after a long walk.

51. Eungella For mums who love to explore, Eungella is the place to go.

Discover a wonderland of waterfalls, lush plant life and volcanic boulder formations in this beautiful area of raw nature. However, Eungella is more suited to mums who don’t mind taking bub in a carrier as it is not too accessible for prams.

52. Cape Hillsborough A place where the rainforest meets the ocean, Cape Hillsborough is scattered with walking trails for mums happy to take bub with them in a carrier rather than a pram. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the iconic wallabies foraging on the shore.

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10 SAFETY TIPS 1. Never leave your baby alone on tables (including change tables), chairs, beds, or other high furniture.

5. Always check the temperature of a bath with your elbow or inner wrist.

2. Never handle hot food or drinks, such as tea, coffee or food, whilst holding your baby. Burns from hot water and drinks can cause severe scarring to children.

6. Never leave baby alone in a bath or near water, even if they are with a sibling.

3. Keep your baby out of direct sunlight. Ensure your baby is kept in the shade when possible, use an SPF30 or higher water-resistant sunscreen suitable for babies, put baby in clothing that covers as much skin as possible and pop on a broad brim/bucket style hat.

Sun protection information for infants is available from Cancer Council Queensland on www.cancer.org.au 4. Toys must be safe, durable, non-flammable if possible and of course washable. If a toy is furry, remember babies can suck on the fur and swallow it. Toys should not have dangling, small or loose parts that can be pulled or chewed off, or objects that can be taken apart. Be particularly careful with button batteries.

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SAFETY TIPS

10 Tips for Baby Safety

7. Always look to make sure there are no objects within reach that are small enough to swallow. As a guide, anything small enough to fit inside a toilet roll is small enough for your baby to swallow.

8. Install smoke detectors throughout your home, check them and change the batteries regularly.

9. Carefully supervise any interactions between your baby and animals, especially dogs.

10. As your child starts using their mouth to taste everything, be aware of the dangers of poisoning.

Install a lock cupboard preferably up high, in the kitchen, bathroom, laundry and garage to store poisonous and alcoholic materials.

SOOTHING TIPS One of the biggest challenges for parents is calming a fussy baby. An expert in all things baby-related is Dr Harvey Karp from Happiest Baby, who has some incredibly helpful tips on soothing an infant using the five S’s.

Soothing an Infant – The 5 S’s

3. Shush - This 'S' refers to the sounds that baby needs to sleep. Infants are used to the shushing sounds of your womb and thus you might find baby has trouble sleeping in complete silence. White noise can help lull your little one to sleep and help them stay asleep longer.

1. Swaddle - Swaddling helps baby feel safe, snug and secure and mimics the womb, which is why swaddling is considered so successful to help baby to sleep. It decreases startling and promotes longer, safer sleep.

4. Swing - Babies love movement, especially the backand-forth swinging sensation. Using an infant swing or gently rocking bub back and forth can also help soothe a crying baby.

2. Side Position - Although sleeping baby on the back is the only safe position for sleeping, it is hard to calm a fussy baby in this position. Placing baby on the side can help ease the fussiness, allowing you to move your infant to the backsleeping position after calming down.

5. Suck - For babies, nothing is more calming than the sucking motion. Even the fussiest baby can relax when sucking.

For more on Dr. Karp’s 5 S’s method for Soothing babies, visit www.happiestbaby.com.au

6. It takes babies three months to get used to life outside the womb. This is why the first three months is often referred to as the “fourth trimester”.

1. Newborn babies cannot cry. They can howl and scream, but actual tears don’t form until around three weeks of age.

2. Babies are born with around 70 reflexes, including the Moro (startle) reflex, the rooting (ready to suck) reflex and the palmar (grasp) reflex.

3. A newborn’s stomach is as small as a marble. No wonder newborns need to be fed so often! By day three, baby’s stomach is the size of a ping pong ball and by day 10, an extra-large chicken egg.

4. The first colour baby will see is red (after shades of black and white). A baby will be able to see the full spectrum of colours by five months of age.

5. At just two days old, newborns are able to recognise their mum’s voice.

7. All babies go through sleep regressions where they will wake up frequently at night and refuse naps. This tends to happen around three months, nine months and 18 months.

8. Babies are born with the ability to taste sweet, sour and bitter, but not salt. Babies do not develop sodiumsensitive receptors until around four months of age.

9. Newborns will typically lose eight per cent of their birth weight by one week of age and regain this weight by two weeks of age.

10. Baby has around 30,000 taste buds, thrice the number of taste buds in comparison to adults. In the third trimester of pregnancy, it is suggested to the expectant mother that she tries all types of food, as the baby’s taste buds develop in the third trimester.

The 5 S's

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BABY'S FIRST BITES STORY Sara Williams Around the age of six months your baby will start to need more nutrients than breastmilk or formula can provide.

You may start to notice your baby reaching for food and opening and closing their mouth when you’re eating, or when you offer them a spoon. These are signs your baby is ready to discover a whole new world of solid foods. Other signs include your baby’s ability to sit upright with limited support and demonstrating good head and neck control.

an entirely new experience to baby. It is important to expose them to a range of healthy food with different flavours and textures to establish a good foundation for future eating.

When you start to offer new foods to your baby, things will get a little messy. From investigating new food with their fingers, to throwing it on the floor when they’re no longer interested and of course the change in their nappies. But the delighted – or disgusted, expression on their faces makes it all worth it.

• Fish with high levels of mercury

Once you have identified your baby’s food interest and they’re older than four months, see the table below for foods recommended by www.1health.gov.au to provide key nutrition.

Always supervise your baby during feeding time to ensure their safety. If your baby has developed a rash, contact your GP as they may have a food allergy. Call 000 immediately if your baby is vomiting, has diarrhea, face swelling or difficulty breathing after eating.

When your baby is relaxed, usually after their breastmilk or formula, start with only a couple of spoonfuls once or twice a day. Try a single food for several before moving onto something new in case any allergies arise.

Although the food may seem bland to you, each food is

Foods to Avoid for Children Under 12 Months • Unpasteurized foods • Smoked and cured meats • Refined grains • Sugary foods including honey • Unpasteurised cow’s milk • Fruit juice

For Guidelines on Infant Feeding and Allergy Prevention from The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy www.allergy.org.au/hp/papers/infant-feeding-andallergy-prevention

MY GO-TO FOR BABY'S FIRST BITES Age

Age

Types of Foods that Can Be Consumed

Birth - around 6 months

Liquids

• Breastmilk or Infant formula*

6-7 months

Finely mashed or pureed foods (no salt, sugar, fat or other flavour added)

8-12 months

Mashed or chopped foods and finger foods (no salt, sugar, fat or other flavours added)

Breastmilk or Infant formula* Infant cereals (iron-enriched) Smooth, mashed pumpkin, potato or zucchini Smooth, cooked apple or pear Well-cooked pureed liver and meat

• Breastmilk or Infant formula* • Infant cereals • Well-cooked and mashed or minced fish, minced liver and minced or finely shredded meat, chicken and egg • Variety of mashed or soft cooked vegetables, including beans, lentils and broccoli • Mashed, cooked fruit • Chipped soft raw fruit such as melon and banana • Cereals such as rice, wheat, oats, bread, pasta and noodles In addition to foods for 8-12 months: • Cheese, custards and yoghurt

9-12 months

12 months+

• • • • •

Family foods

• Breastmilk and/or plain pasteurised full-cream milk • Variety of foods from all food groups, with varying textures and flavours Caution must be taken with hard foods, as choking is still a risk. *When partially or no longer breastfeeding.

For more information on baby's first foods, search 'Introducing Solids' at the Australian Government Department of Health www1.health.gov.au First Foods and Foods to Avoid

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PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES TO HELP WITH SLEEP

THE SECRET TO YOUR BABY GETTING A GOOD NIGHT SLEEP by Dr Golly Dr Daniel Golshevsky aka Dr Golly is a Melbourne based pediatrician, who, with a team of experts has developed the Dr Golly Sleep Program; an online sleep and settling course to help you get children - birth to five years - sleeping in a routine that works for your family. Content ranges from feeding, nutrition, winding, routines, settling techniques and more. He’s answered some of your burning questions…

What's normal / abnormal when it comes to a baby's sleep patterns and needs?

As your child grows their sleep patterns and sleep requirements change dramatically. A newborn will have 3 - 5 daytime naps and sleep anywhere from 15 - 18 hours a day; by 8 months most pre-toddlers will have dropped to 2 naps and be sleeping 14 - 14.5 hours a day; by 3 years old some children will have dropped day naps completely.

In terms of overnight sleep by 6 weeks, most babies are capable of sleeping through the night, 7 straight hours and by 6 months, most babies are capable of going the full 12 hours.

My sleep program will help you identify reasons why your baby may not be reaching these targets and the tweaks you need to make to get your baby, and you, sleeping through the night.

Why is the non-breastfeeding parent so important?

It’s close to impossible for a breastfeeding mother to not feed, when picking up an unsettled baby, because of the hormones circulating through her body. And if the baby is being held right next to a food source, knowing that it will be comforted by the closeness and the sucking reflex – then why wouldn’t they want to feed?

That is why fathers are more likely to be able to resettle a baby, if something wakes them before a scheduled feed. Fathers don’t have that same oxytocin surge that mothers get, we also don’t smell of breastmilk. So, when we hold a crying baby, we send them a very clear message – through our touch, through our hormones, through our energy, that they are not going to get fed. Babies – astute communicators – can sense this and are far more likely to settle down.

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Every day, I have fathers lamenting to me that they feel helpless. They can see their wife struggling with sleep deprivation, feeding frequently, anxious, etc. They genuinely want to help, but feel that they have nothing to offer.

It couldn't be further from the truth. In fact - they are not in any way helpless, they're in fact the secret weapon to helping that baby sleep through the night. Which protects the mum and allows EVERYONE in the house a full night's sleep.

What are some techniques parents can use to help their child get a good night's sleep?

We talk about a number of age-appropriate sleep and settling techniques in the program. Regardless of age consistency of routine and alignment of approach from both parents / caregivers is key. Kids thrive on routine!

Some of the basics include making sure their sleeping environment is correct with regard to temperature, white noise and lighting (or lack thereof). Daytime nutrition plays a phenomenal role in their ability to sleep through the night, particularly for babies under one year of age.

Dr Golly (Dr. Daniel Golshevsky) is a Melbourne-based paediatrician and father of three. Specialising in unsettled babies and poor sleep, Dr Golly developed this program through his work with thousands of babies over more than a decade of practice. With a focus on empowering parents and protecting mothers, Dr Golly turns up the volume of that innate parental instinct to maximise parents' understanding of their baby's cues and bring everyone closer to a full night's sleep.

About the program The Dr Golly Sleep Program is a series of self-paced online sleep and settling courses to help you get children 0 - 5 years sleeping in a routine that works for your family.

Content varies by age category and ranges from feeding, nutrition, winding, routines, settling techniques and more.

There are six core age-based courses and two supplements that make up the program. There are six core age-based course and two supplements that make up the program; Newborn, Little Baby, Big Baby, Pre-Toddler, Toddler and Pre-School. Find out more at www.drgolly.com

ESTABLISHING A POSITIVE BEDTIME ROUTINE By Dan and Jayne from Magic Door Pillows Sleep is vital for a wide variety of reasons, including regulating our emotions, enhancing functions such as learning, memorising and making logical decisions, replenishing our immune system, and much more. The most important thing you can do for your kids to help them get a good night's sleep is to have a consistent bedtime routine. This helps them understand when it's time to wind down for bed. Consistent activities act as cues to help your kids go into automatic thinking mode and help them relax.

Here are three helpful tips: • Start your kid's bedtime routine at the same time each night • Run a warm bath for them • Read a bedtime story • Talk about what dreams they would like to have that night Our Magic Door Pillows Sets are designed to help parents create a soothing and magical bedtime routine for kids.

Read the storybook and watch the magic unfold as your kids discover real Magic Door Pillows on their beds, just like the kids in the book!

Each night as a part of your kids' bedtime routine, they can write or draw a picture of what they would like to dream about and mail it in the pillow's magic mailbox.

This way, their Sleepy Wizard or Dream Fairy, who sleep inside their Magic Door Pillow, will know what dreams to catch for them. Our pillows also glow in the dark, making them great for kids who are afraid of the dark or experience nightmares.

You can view 'The Sleepy Wizard Set' and 'The Dream Fairy Set' via their website, www.magicdoorpillows.com

Head to www.pakmag.com.au to tune into sleep-related podcasts with the experts: Episode 11: Save our Sleep with Sleep Expert, Tizzie Hall. Episode 18: Sleep-Wrecked kids and the Consequences with Speech Pathologist and Myofunctional Practitioner Sharon Moore. Episode 20: Kiss Sleep Deprivation Goodbye with Dr Harvey Karp, one of America's most-trusted Pediatricians and Child Development Expert.

Sleep

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PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES TO HELP WITH UNDERSTANDING & COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR BABY

UNDERSTANDING WHAT YOUR BABY’S CRIES MEAN by Sonja Preston, National Dunstan Baby Language Trainer for Australia

sessions you will not only know the sounds, but why they happen and what to do.

With DBL

The Dunstan Baby Language (DBL) is a proven system which teaches the parents of newborns to tune in to their babies and to easily identify what their baby’s cries mean.

• Babies cry less, as their needs are met;

Crying is early communication. Your baby telling you that they are hungry, or tired, or perhaps they have wind.

These early cries are reflex based. For example, when the baby is hungry, the sucking reflex is stimulated.

Their tongue goes up to the top of the mouth as if there is already a breast or bottle there, and when sound is added, we hear it as a ‘neh’ sound.

The end result is a content baby and parents who feel confident in their parenting!

As new parents we spend a lot of time guessing what they want, and in the time it takes us to correctly guess, their crying has intensified and our stress levels have increased.

What if you spoke their language? If you understood the difference in sound between a hungry cry as opposed to wind cry? How much easier would that make your life?

Our on-line classes teach you the five cry sounds which all parents of newborns need to know - for hunger, tiredness, wind, being uncomfortable, or lower wind pain. In just two

• There is reduced incidence of colic as parents know when to burp them and • Parents report feeling happier in their parenting.

Find out more about Dunstan Baby Language and courses by visiting www.theparentingcafe.com.au/dunstan-babylanguage/ Sonja Preston is the founder of ‘The Parenting Café’, creator of ‘Me Do story cards,’ a Dunstan Baby Language (DBL) Educator and Australia’s National DBL Trainer. Sonja has had extensive experience as an engaging classroom teacher, with qualifications in Special Education, Gifted and Talented children, behavioural difficulties and Field Studies. Sonja is also a highly sought-after Parenting Consultant and has worked as International Trainer with the ‘Parents as Teachers’ program for Macquarie University and as a Parent / Family Support Worker for the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre and Save the Children.

What About Communicating with Your Baby?

Tune into Episode 12 of the PakMag Parents Podcast at www.pakmag.com.au for a special podcast on Baby Talk: can it impact your baby's language development? Dr Christa Lam-Cassettari is a Researcher in Infant Studies and leads MARCS Baby Lab at Western Sydney University, discusses the impact that baby talk has on our babies. Find out more about Dr Christa and MARCS BabyLab at www.westernsydney.edu.au/babylab/about

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Understanding and Communicating with Your Baby

YOUR GUIDE TO CHILDCARE, KINDY AND SCHOOL The early years are without a doubt the most important when it comes to a child’s development, making it clear that deciding on your child’s early education is one of the most important choices you’ll make for them. It’s never too early to start thinking about childcare, kindy, and school options; in fact, being prepared will give you peace of mind that you’ll give your child the best start to life.

In the first years of life, your child will learn valuable skills that they will carry with them into adulthood and their career of choice. Being taught the skills they need in a friendly, stimulating and nurturing learning environment can make a world of difference. However, with so many options out there, making the decision can seem overwhelming.

Many childcare centres, kindergartens, and schools hold open days to allow parents and their kids to come along and get a feel for the place, look around, and ask questions.

Many offer tours on request too. Seeing the centre or school in action can give you a great indication of whether or not you believe the location is right for your child.

Childcare or Family Day Care?

When it comes to sending your little ones to care, it’s important to choose the right option for you and your child.

Australia has some of the best childcare providers in the world. Approved childcare services are required to meet strict quality standards and, to be eligible for the Child Care Benefit (CCB) and the Child Care Rebate (CCR), families must be using a government approved service.

If you are still considering which path to follow for your family’s childcare needs, here’s a quick overview of the two most popular childcare options.

Childcare Centres are usually open for at least 10 - 12 hours per day on weekdays, and operate for at least 48 weeks of the year. Many cater for children from six weeks of age to five years of age. Families can choose to have their child attend one day a week for socialisation (or parent sanity) or for up to five days for parents who have returned to part-time or full-time work.

Pros - Many supply meals and nappies. Your child will also be grouped with children of similar age. Some also offer kindergarten programs which are run by qualified early childhood teachers in the two years before school.

Childcare centres that have the Kindergarten program offer this during their daycare day. This means that your child is able to be in care for the long hours that the centre is open and still receive this important education.

Enrolling in a Childcare Centre that also has a kindergarten program makes transitioning to kindy easier, as it will feel more natural, in an environment they are familiar with.

Cons - Larger amounts of children in one place, so sometimes your little one will be exposed to more illnesses.

Family Day Care provides home-based care for children via a network for educators usually in the educator’s home

from six weeks to five years of age. Many parents love the nurturing, natural and flexible home learning environment provided by Family Day Care - a home away from home for their child to be cared for.

Pros - Family day care educators offer individualised learning programs. They can offer care during standard hours, evenings, before / after school, during school holidays and in some cases overnight and weekends – which is super handy for nightshift workers. Family Daycare can also provide care for children up to 12 years of age, making it possible for older siblings to be cared for in school holidays for example.

Cons – It may be less reliable than centre-based care if your educator is sick or going on holidays, you might have to find other care.

Kindergarten Kindergartens are for children who are at least four years of age by June 30 in the year they participate. A Kindergarten program is put in place to help prepare kids for school in the year prior to enrolment into Prep. These programs usually run for six hours per day and five days per fortnight during school terms (two days one week, three days the next). Unless your child is in a long daycare centre, the hours will be up to five days per week for the number of hours you are leaving your child at the centre for.

While many Kindergartens are government-run and offer lower fees, a few are run by or affiliated with private or Catholic schools. Many of these organise excursions to the affiliated school where the children can get a feel for “big school” and explore prep classrooms. This makes the eventual transition into prep easier.

Child Care Benefit (CCB) and the Child Care Rebate (CCR) applies to eligible families for kindergarten.

Prep Prep is the foundation for your child’s education. Prep is the first year of school and is compulsory for children in Queensland to undertake Prep prior to Year 1. Prep is for children who turn five years of age by June 30 in the year they enrol.

For more information on early childhood services, rebates, financial assistance, learning support, Kindergarten and Prep - including information on preparing your child for Prep and how to enrol - head to the Queensland Government’s website www.qld.gov.au/education/ earlychildhood.

Your Guide To Childcare, Kindergarten and School

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CHOOSING A KINDERGARTEN Attending a childcare centre or Kindergarten helps children to develop social, emotional, and learning skills by exploring the world and playing with other kids. We are so lucky to have such a wonderful selection of childcare centres and Kindergarten options available to us, but having so many options can make choosing one for your child difficult. Here’s a few things to keep in mind when making the decision: 1. Take a tour of the Kindergarten and get an understanding of its atmosphere. You’re looking for an inviting, relaxed environment where your child can feel safe and comfortable, interacting with the educators in a positive way and participating in fun and challenging activities.

2. Look at the kindergarten’s operations, policies and procedures. These should be child and family-focused and sensitive to cultural and social backgrounds. They should also consider each family’s lifestyle and child-rearing practices.

3. Find out about their behaviour management policy.

4. Enquire about: the quality rating, daily operating hours and term lengths, fees, how food and drink is given to the children, whether extended care is offered and if you have a child with additional needs – how will they support them?

About Kindergartens Kindergartens generally offer the Kindergarten program for six hours per day for five days per fortnight (usually

two days one week, three days the next) with a set start and finish time. Parents must be available to drop off and pick up their child at these set times. There are some Kindergartens, like the Catholic Education Kindergartens, that do also offer before and after Kindy Hours Care and Vacation Care.

Knowing that you are leaving your child at a centre that you trust and are comfortable with will provide you with great peace of mind at what can often be an emotional time for not only your child but also you. Many childcare centres and Kindergartens invite parents to take a tour of their centre to see the facilities and the level of care that they offer.

If your child is approaching the age to commence Kindergarten, this guide will help you find the centre that is perfect for your family and help your child thrive.

(Please bear in mind that many centres encourage early enrolment as spots do fill quickly and many have long waiting lists, so checking these centres and Kindergartens out now for future use is also a great idea).

Want to help prepare your child for school success? Life is full of transitions – high school to uni, primary school to high school, but arguably one of the most important ones is the transition of starting school.

Your child is suddenly introduced to a completely different environment with new children, a new teacher and new things to learn - leading many parents to wonder if their little one is ready for it, and rightly so! Visit www.pakmag.com.au to tune into Episode 55 of the PakMag Parents Podcast with Julie Dore, author of ‘Prepping for School Success’, a book all about preparing and thriving in the early years. She is passionate about helping children (and parents) be better prepared for school and has been a teacher for 14 years. For more on ‘Prepping for School Success’ visit www.preppingforschoolsuccess.com

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Choosing A Kindergarten

BIG SCHOOL TIME STORY Bec Dent Hooray! Your little one is finally off to big school! This is the start of an exciting journey which will eventually guide your child to their desired career path.

What School Do I Choose?

The Queensland Department of Education www.education.qld.gov.au, suggests considering the following to help decide which school is best for your child: • “What are your child's needs and interests?

Will the school be able to cater for them?

• Is the school reasonably close to home, work and carers?

• What facilities does the school offer?

Are you comfortable with the feel of it?

• What are the school policies on homework, discipline and safety?

• Are other services available such as after school care?”

Public, Private, or Catholic?

There are many, many schools to choose from, including public, private and Catholic schools. Here’s a brief run down to help you decide.

Public - The main two factors about public schools are that they are managed by the Australian Government education system and therefore offer lower tuition fees.

The enrolment process is fairly simple and straightforward, and many accept enrolments based on catchment areas (ie. if you reside in a school’s catchment area, they will generally accept you).

Private - While private schools have higher tuition fees, they generally offer more excursions, smaller class sizes, and a larger variety of school facilities, including boarding for some schools. Admission into a private school generally isn’t as straightforward as entering a public school, with many requiring students and parents to come in for an enrolment interview.

Catholic - Catholic education is faith-based, communityminded and an integral part of the Catholic Church.

These schools receive partial government funding, meaning their fees can be lower than those of private schools. Many parents believe that like private schools, Catholic schools have more to offer to their children in terms of facilities, opportunities, and even boarding facilities. A child does not need to be baptised or have Catholic faith in order to enrol at a Catholic school but will be required to participate in Catholic school activities including mass and prayer.

When Should We Start Thinking About School?

Realistically, it’s never too early to start researching your child’s education. Even if your child is still a toddler,

you can call around different schools to enquire about their enrolment process. Some schools accept applications years in advance, and if they don’t, it doesn’t hurt to put your child on the school’s waiting list to increase your chances of securing a spot if you are looking into enrolling at a private or Catholic school.

When thinking about your child’s education, ask yourself what you value the most in a learning environment.

Do you want a school that offers a range of facilities, perhaps including a swimming pool or boarding facilities?

Are you looking for a large and diverse school, or a smaller and more private school? Would you like your child to attend a school where religious education is a must?

Asking yourself these questions will help you narrow down the schools in your region, and therefore bringing you a step closer towards making a decision.

Where Do We Start?

Public school – If you’re looking at a specific public school, it’s worth checking whether you reside in the school’s catchment area, as some schools will only accept students who reside within their district. You can find an interactive catchment area map at www.qgso.qld.gov.au/maps/ edmap.

From here, you can contact the school of interest or visit their website to enquire about the school’s enrolment process. Usually this involves filling out an application form, returning this to the school’s administration office, and attending an interview with the school’s principal or enrolment officer.

Private school – Many private schools are in high demand and some have lengthy waiting list in place. These lists generally operate on a “first come, first served” basis, but your child is not always guaranteed enrolment by being on the school’s waiting list. Having said that, getting in earlier rather than later is always recommended.

Be prepared to pay a waiting list fee and for your child to possibly sit a test, should they be invited for an interview at the school.

Catholic school – If you’re interested in enrolling your child at a Catholic school, you should contact the school directly to enquire about their enrolment process. You can also head to the school’s or the Catholic Education website for more information. Alternatively, contact your local Catholic Education office to enquire about Catholic schools in your area, as unlike public schools, they do not have catchment areas.

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8 TIPS FOR TEAR-FREE TRANSITIONS Life is full of transitions. Transitions occur often for children, particularly in the early days when they make their way from home to childcare, kindergarten, prep and then school. While it’s an exciting milestone, these transitions can be a little daunting for parents and children. Some children find change easy, while others may find it difficult and take time to settle into their new surroundings. Both these responses are normal, as each child develops differently. Guiding your child to feel more comfortable and confident in their new environment will enable them focus on their learning.

How to Help Your Child with the Transition Process: 1. Find the right fit – Visit several centres or schools to get a sense of which environment feels right for your family and have your questions answered. Explore the facilities and meet the educators or teachers. Most childcare centres are more than happy for you to have a playdate and / or do a half day - easing your little one into a full day. If the school has a transition program, this will help build familiarity of names, faces and places giving you the opportunity to have conversations about these at home, reducing firstday stress.

2. Speak positively – Speak positively and confidently about the changes ahead, building a sense of security for your child through your own confidence. Remind them about all the exciting things they’ll play with and learn. You may even want to role-play with some toys - a typical day they will experience at the childcare/ kindy or school, to help build familiarity. Be prepared to answer any questions your little one may have.

3. Keep up the routine – Starting childcare, kindy or school means some changes to your child’s (and your) routine.

Developing a morning, evening and bedtime routine will help make the transition easier. You may like to do a practice run of the first day to eliminate any issues that may arise. For morning drop-offs encourage your child to put their items away every morning (such as their bag, lunch box and water bottle), say your goodbyes and tell them you’ll be back in the afternoon to pick them up.

4. Self-sufficiency - If your child is transitioning to school, make sure they are mostly self-sufficient. They should be able to open their own lunchbox, items inside the lunchbox and go to the toilet. Let your child help pack their bag so they know where everything is, including spare clothes.

Avoid sending your child to school in shoelaces if they can’t tie their shoes yet – buy Velcro. Try using role-play for what to do if they get hurt in the playground and encourage them to speak up in class if they need help. Be involved in your child’s education, attend the parent teacher interviews and ask questions.

5. Comfort item – If your child has a teddy, toy or blanket they use to comfort themselves, let them bring it along.

A transitional comfort item can help the child feel safe in an unfamiliar environment. If your child is ready for school you might suggest leaving the comfort item at home or in the car, ready to cuddle when they finish school.

Discussing and making changes in advance can help prepare your child.

6. When the objections happen – “I don’t want to go!”, “I want to stay home with you!” These are all common objections you may hear on the leadup to the first day.

Make sure your child has the chance to be heard; get down on their level so you are eye-to-eye, and ask them what they are concerned about. Reassure them that their feelings are valid rather than dismissing how they are feeling. Speak positively, direct their thoughts to something they have to look forward to and let them know you’ll see them soon.

7. When it’s time to go, it’s time to go – Once you’ve said your goodbyes, it’s time to go. Lingering or going back to your child when they’re upset can reinforce this is part of the routine. It can be difficult to walk away knowing your child is unsettled, but educators and teachers are experienced in these situations. There’s a high chance your child will be happily playing in no time. Talking to your child about how drop off and pick up times will work in advance and the fun they will have during the day will help when it comes to the real drop off. Most importantly, try and stay as calm as possible at drop off time (especially the first one) - as your children will pick up on your fear, making saying goodbye harder.

8. Checking in – If you’re really concerned and your child seemed considerably upset when you left, it’s perfectly okay to call the centre or school - to put your mind at ease.

If troubles persist and your child is having difficulty settling in, arrange a meeting with their educator or teacher to get clarity and plan how you can work together to help.

Seek advice from your doctor if you feel there may be a contributing factor such as anxiety or learning difficulties.

8 Tips for Transitions

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DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES Each parent is the expert in their own child’s life. You will know better than anyone how they are tracking; but sometimes this can be hard to identify. Each age group has developmental stages, from birth to six years old. Within these ages and stages are milestones that serve as a guide to where your child should typically be, and what they should be achieving for their age.

It is important to remember that every child develops at their own pace. The best way to get an indication of your child’s development is by observing them through play, daily routines and activities, to see if there are any red flags.

Milestones at 1 Month Brings hands within range of eyes and mouth, moves head from side to side while lying on stomach and has strong reflex movements. Eyes wander and occasionally cross, recognises some sounds and may turn toward familiar sounds and voices.

Red flags – sucks poorly and feeds slowly, doesn’t blink when shown a bright light, rarely moves arms and legs.

Milestones at 3 Months Raises head and chest when lying on stomach, opens and shuts hands, brings hand to mouth, and grasps and shakes toys. Watches faces intently, follows moving object with eyes, begins to babble and begins to develop a social smile.

Red flags – doesn’t respond to loud noises, can’t support their head, doesn’t bring objects to mouth, doesn’t reach for or grasps toys.

Milestones at 7 Months Sits with and without support, supports whole weight on legs, transfers object from hand to hand, responds to their name, uses voice to express joy and displeasure, finds partially hidden objects, interested in mirror images.

Red flags – head flops back when pulled up into sitting position, refuses to cuddle, doesn’t roll over, doesn’t babble, doesn’t bear some weight on legs.

Milestones at 1 Year Crawls forward on belly, gets from sitting to crawling position, pulls themselves up to stand, walks holding on to furniture, stands momentarily without support, pokes with

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0 - 4 Years

index finger, tries to imitate scribbling, responds with “no”, says dada and mama, tries to imitate words, looks at the correct picture when the image is named, may be fearful in some situations.

Red flags – doesn’t crawl, cannot stand while supported, says no single words, does not point to objects or pictures.

Milestones at 2 Years Walks along, pulls toys behind them when walking, begins to run, kicks a ball, climbs onto furniture and down unassisted, builds towers of four blocks or more, begins pretend play, imitates behaviour of others.

Red flags – cannot walk by 18 months, doesn’t speak at least 15 words by 18 months, does not seem to know the function of common household objects (brush, phone, fork) by 15 months, does not follow simple instructions by age two.

Milestones at 4 Years Stands on one foot for five seconds, goes upstairs and downstairs without support, catches bounced ball, uses scissors, begins to copy some capital letters, speaks in sentences of five to six words, tells stories, correctly names some colours, follows three part commands, understands the concept of counting, interested in new experiences, dresses and undresses themselves, cooperates with other children.

Red flags – cannot jump in place, cannot ride a tricycle, has difficulty scribbling, still clings or cries when parent leaves, ignores other children, doesn’t engage in fantasy play, doesn’t use sentences of more than three words, resists dressing, sleeping or using the toilet.

Remember that it is completely normal to worry about your growing child and there is no shame in reaching out to your paediatrician for advice or help. Acting early can make all the difference!